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SEPTEMBER 2015
#51

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan on

his plan to keep the Irons throne
 WELCOME
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
David Blackmore
MANAGING EDITOR:
Simon Osborn
CONTRIBUTORS:
David Bowden, Marcus
Johns, Geoff Hillyer,
Tim Holland, Andrew
Hosie, James Jones,
James Longman, David
Meagher, George Parris,
John Payne, Emily
Pulham, Julian Shea,
Bianca Westwood, Brian
Williams, Lucy Woolford
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Nicky Hayes, Mikey
Cartwright
EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES:

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about the Hammers as I am?

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 The big interview - David Sullivan

There arent any billionaires

left who dont own a top club
West Ham co-owner David Sullivan tells David Blackmore about his
plans to stay put and how the Hammers nailed the transfer window
D avid Sullivan says
he has no plans to
sell West Ham United
everything since we
came and we will con-
tinue to do so for a long
when the club moves to time to come.
the Olympic Stadium. People forget we
The Hammers major- were at Birmingham
ity shareholder insists for 17 years. We did,
he is in for the long at one stage, have a 28
haul and is desperate per cent stake in West
to establish the club as Ham. We really wanted
one of the best teams to buy West Ham, it was
in the country before our preferred option,
eventually handing over but we eventually sold
to his sons. those shares and went to
In an exclusive and Birmingham.
wide-ranging interview The only club we have
with Blowing Bubbles ever wanted to own was
Monthly, the 66-year-old West Ham and now
claimed he would only weve got it, weve got
ever consider selling up absolutely no desire to
if the deal would allow sell.
a huge injection of cash However, even without
into the clubs playing Dont grow on trees: Not every a huge takeover similar
squad. club can find a Sheikh Mansour to the ones experienced
If the King of Saudi bin Zayed Al Nahyan like City by Manchester City and
Arabia or a multi, mul- Chelsea, Sullivan be-
ti-billionaire like the The move to Stratford, Irons to an overseas lieves a glorious future is
owners of Manchester combined with the investor. already on the horizon.
City wanted to take Premier Leagues latest This is something that I always believe the
over and I felt it was for TV deal, has seen West comes up all the time best times are ahead, he
the good of the club, I Hams value rocket since but we are not looking added. Its great to have
would step aside but I he bought the club with for anybody to take over. heritage and history but
really dont think that lifelong friend and busi- I dont think we will sell for me, the best times are
will ever happen. ness partner David Gold in our lifetime. Im cer- always in front of you.
There arent many in January 2010. tainly not here to make Its never been a
multi, multi-billionaires But Sullivan says there a quick buck I dont tougher time to be in
left out there that are was never a masterplan need the money. the Premier League and
interested in football to move the club away Weve been very every season the gap
and havent already got a from the Boleyn Ground honest and open with between the top four
club. In fact I dont think before making a huge the supporters about and the rest of the league
there is one that exists! profit by offloading the how weve gone about gets bigger because
Dear leader: David
Sullivan has no plans
to give end his reign
as West Ham boss
of the wealth of those
clubs. But if we get some Star: West Ham splashed
luck with injuries and the cash to sign Dimitri
transfers, our long-term Payet this summer
aim is to break into that
top four and to be chal-
lenging for the title.
Why cant we have
these aims? Its surely
got to be the aim of all
Premier League clubs?
You cant start the
season, and plan for
future seasons, with the
aim of finishing 17th
and being happy with
that. We want to go into
every season and every
match thinking we can
beat anyone put in front
of us.
Its a very exciting time
for us. We are a club in
transition and we are
changing our style, and
it will take time to adapt
to a new system, but I
think over time we will
see us getting better and
better results.
Our conversation
turns to his sons, Jack they absolutely love their all make mistakes and I was pleased with this but
and Dave, and what they football you can hear hope they always learn I wish we had done more
might do when they are their passion when- from them. early deals. Having said
older will they follow ever they appear on a The sound of the trans- that, it all came together
in their dads footsteps? podcast. fer window slamming at the end and Im elated
I hope they do what Theyve got a great shut is still ringing in with the business weve
they want to do and have passion for the club Sullivans ears as our dis- done.
a really good life, Sulli- and hopefully they will cussion continued and West Ham signed four
van replied. I just want learn a few things from he spoke of his highs and players on transfer dead-
them to be happy. me and keep learning lows in the days leading line day Alex Song,
What I will say is that as they get older. We up to September 1. Victor Moses, Nikica
If youd asked me Jelavic and Michail An-
how I felt a week or tonio which came on
two before the transfer top of big money deals
window shut, I wouldve for Dimitri Payet and
said I felt p***ed off, Angelo Ogbonna earlier
depressed, worn out, in the summer.
and worn out from the We already know what
criticism of the support- Alex Song can do. We
ers because we had been knew when we signed
really working hard, he him that he wouldnt
Close: West Ham tried to do a deal explained. be able to play until
with Tottenham chairman Daniel We got some business November but we still
Levy over Emmanual Adebayor done very early and I went for him and he was
the number one choice
for the manager.
Victor Moses is a
Premier League player
and a hardened pro,
and Nikica Jelavic is a
proven Premier League
performer.
However, Sullivan
revealed he is most
excited about the arrival
of Antonio, who came
in a 7million deal from
Nottingham Forest.
He got 15 goals and
15 assists last season and
already has four goals to
his name this term.
He came up the hard
way from Tooting and
Mitcham and up the
leagues.
The manager thinks
he is still a raw talent but
he feels in 12 months
he can turn him into a New home: The Olympic
really top player. His raw Stadium has the potential to
talent, however, will still be a game-changer for West
be more than enough Ham when the club moves
to score goals in the
Premier League.
West Ham were also Yet we lost at home
reportedly close to A proper East End film to Bournemouth and
signing Tottenham Hot- Leicester. I still look
spur striker Emmanuel David Sullivans film, film and 200 people back at these games and
Adebayor on transfer The Rise of the Krays, who wouldnt have had ask myself how we lost.
deadline day but, while is out now. work, got a job. We Neither of these sides are
Sullivan admits a deal The Hammers chief have produced a film particularly special but it
was close, nothing came part-financed the film that it very thoughtful has been a strange start
of it. which is available and honest. in the Premier League
It was a choice to buy now and has Weve not glam- with very few home
between Adebayor and received positive ourised them or wins.
Jelavic and the manager reviews. made them out to be Thats why we signed
chose Jelavic, he ex- Im so proud of nice people because the players, because
plained. We had agreed how well its doing, they were incredibly the manager wanted
a deal with Spurs but for he said. Its a British violent. real pace in the team to
reasons I cant go into, it be able to breakdown
didnt happen. Manchester City who victories even better, in defences. If we get every-
Looking to the month have humiliated us a few my opinion, was that one back fit, there will be
ahead, Sullivan was times recently but we go Liverpool were unbeaten some great players sit-
looking forward to one up there on the back of and hadnt conceded a ting on the bench, which
fixture in particular. two outstanding away goal before we played is a great position for us
Its going to be victories at Arsenal and them and Arsenal have to be in. There is going
interesting to see how Liverpool, he added. not lost since our win at to be serious competi-
we get on against What made both those the Emirates. tion for places. BBM
 Your shout Email: editor@blowing-bubbles.co.uk

Friend should be axed after Arsenal game

set standard
Nobles ridiculous red card After seeing how organ-
ised and disciplined the
I dont want to be neg- team were against Arse-
ative after West Hams nal in Slaven Bilics first
fantastic win over Liver- LETTER Premier League match as
pool at Anfield but I feel
OF THE manager my optimism is
compelled to write in sky-high.
about the performance
MONTH I was happy to see
of the referee. him getting the job as
Quite simply Kevin he always looked like an
Friend should not be excellent organiser and
in charge of another motivator wherever hed
Premier League game for managed prior to his
at least a month after his appointment with us.
bizarre decision to send In my eyes the match
off Mark Noble. at the Emirates has set
I know it was over- the standard for what
turned on appeal but should be a successful fi-
that really isnt the Poor: Kevin Friend is nal season at the Boleyn
point. On another day just not up to the job Ground as we looked
that could have been solid in defence and
a turning point in the The Premier League Referees are human were totally comfortable
game and had Liverpool is hugely important and and make mistakes but going forward against
pulled one back after the financial conse- there should be conse- a team that many have
our captain was sent quences of relegation quences for them when tipped as genuine title
off it could have made this year will be massive they make such major contenders.
a huge difference to the as the new TV deal errors. Paddy Campbell
outcome. comes in next season. Mark Underwood
No option but
Carroll can still have a massive impact to dump Nolan
A lot has been made of Dimitri Payet and Victor West Ham enjoyed
the ways West Ham look Moses playing alongside an excellent transfer
different under Slaven him I think the former window and made some
Bilic compared to Sam Newcastle United striker good signings.
Allardyce. could do very well. But in my mind it was
And while it is clear It is important we just as important for the
that we will look to keep make the most of every players we let go.
possession more than we player we have in the Getting Kevin Nolan,
did under our previous squad and Carroll is one Matt Jarvis and Modibo
manager, I think we will of the best target men in Maiga off the wage bill is
still look to go direct at the Premier League. excellent business.
times. I hear he is close to This is Slaven Bilics
That will be good news full fitness after his latest squad now and at last
for Andy Carroll as the injury and I look for- the dead wood from the
big striker thrives on ward to seeing how he Sam Allardyce reign is
good quality balls into performs under Bilic. gone.
the box. With the likes of Lucy Jones Mike Griesel
 GEORGE
THE HAMMERS HERO PULLS NO PUNCHES IN HIS EXCLUSIVE COLUMN
PARRIS
Coup: Victor Moses
could be an amazing
Matt was a
signing for the Irons
lovely guy
Its been a bit sombre
where I live on the
south coast recently
following the Shore-
ham air crash.
Sadly my friend
Matt Grimstone was
one of those who
died.
I knew him well
because he used to do
some coaching for me
before he went onto
become a grounds-

We now have our best

man at Brighton.
He was on his way
to play for Worth-
ing United against

squad in living memory Loxwood with Jacob

Schilt when they were
killed by a Hawker
Hunter that had
W ith the amount of
signings we made
on transfer deadline, and
it was a shrewd bit of
business. He brings ex-
perience and a calming
Arsenals Carl Jenkin-
son is also back here on
a season-long loan, who
crashed onto the A27.
They were both only
23. Its such a tragedy.
the quality of these play- influence to the team. along with Moses have He was just in the
ers, this is the strongest Victor Moses is quite both been capped for wrong place at the
squad that weve had in a an exciting player too. I the England Under-21s wrong time.
very long time. really feel that, given the although Moses has gone Matt was a lovely
Players will now chance, he will provide on to represent Nigeria. fella the kind who
know if someone isnt the ammunition for What is clear this would do anything
performing, there is a the front two or one season is that its going for you.
ready-made replacement whatever it may be. to be important that we He was a lovely lad,
and it might be weeks Chelsea, the current improve our home form quite unassuming
before they get back into Premier League cham- at Upton Park. and he will be sorely
the side. pions, are still keen on Im sure Slaven will missed. My thoughts
For me, it was great to him and have extended get it right and by now are with the family
see Alex Song return. I his contract so I think it he will know what his and friends of all
know he was here last is a bit of a coup for us to strongest side is. Expect those who died.
season but I still think get him. the results to come. BBM
 Pub talk
Blowing Bubbles top writers settle down to put the world to rights...
West Ham are generally also a well-known in
Star: Michail
considered to have the Premier League,
Antonio could
enjoyed a good transfer Jelavic will provide good
be a superb
deadline day - which of back up for our main
signing
the four signings are strikers. Antonio is the
you most excited about? one Im looking forward
James Longman: Im too - a pacey, strong
always excited by a pacey winger with a great assist
winger and Michail record and goal-scoring
Antonio looks promis- record too. Lets hope he
ing. However if we have becomes as successful as
signed the Alex Song our previous Champi-
of the first half of last onship signing, Aaron
season then that is a real Cresswell.
coup. Fingers crossed he Would you have liked
rediscovers the kind of to have seen Emmanuel
form he had then. Adebayor join the
Tim Holland: Antonio club from Tottenham
for me, I saw him at Antonio is the most League. He seems confi- Hotspur?
Sheffield Wednesday exciting signing. He dent he can. JL: He has shown that
a few years ago and looks like an absolute Andrew Hosie: It was a in the right frame of
was impressed. Hes beast - if he can make terrific transfer window mind, Adebayor can be
got strength, pace and the step up, hell contrib- overall for West Ham an excellent footballer
enjoys running at the ute much-needed pace and what a refreshing and there is no reason
opposition and which and goals. Its another of final day after many why Slaven Bilic couldnt
are all qualities weve those feels right sign- let-downs in the past. get the best out of him.
been missing. With Vic- ings - I think he could be All the players brought Im bored however by
tor Moses hell add some very successful with us in on deadline day are Spurs and the way they
much needed width. - the proviso being hell terrific for the squad. handle business so in all
Geoff Hillyer: For me, need to step up to the Obviously Song we honesty, no.
demands of the Premier know about, Moses is TH: In a word, no. It
was endearing to hear
that he wanted to join Bullet dodged: West
us on transfer deadline Ham did well not to
day but Im not sure his sign Spurs striker
attitude and faltering Emmanuel Adebayor
abilities are what we
need especially if his
wages are 100k per
week. Im sure Nikica
Jelavic will provide the
necessary cover up front
and well have Mauro
Zarate and Andy Carroll
back soon enough.
GH: Im glad that we
didnt, in the end. Im
not sure why, to be hon-
est, as the guys obviously
talented - but I think we
have a settled dressing
room, we have Carroll
and Enner Valencia to
come back, we have
Diafra Sakho and now
Jelavic, I just think that it
would be an unnecessary
move. Plus its hilarious
that Tottenham continue
to have to pay him!
AH: Ha, no! A signing
like Adebayor would
have seemed like past
West Ham, i.e. signing JL: From the start, Ive games, albeit I thought left me to over-enthused
players past their prime. had no idea how this wed get the points from about our prospects for
Also it is somewhat season will turn out and Bournemouth and this season but I was
satisfying to ensure that I still dont! Two amaz- Leicester. Im hoping for inclined to have an open
Daniel Levy wasnt dug ing away performances more consistency going mind and our stunning
out of a hole by us. Levy and two dreadful home into September though. start had me feeling as
blocked us last time, ones. The squad has GH: More up and down elated as the previous
glad its us that turned been bolstered so Im than a yoyo. Its early home win against
the tables on them. I hopeful we can start days. We obviously need Manchester City from
hope the tweet by DG getting some consistency to get the home form last season. Of course, in
was more than a joke be- and Slaven has to work sorted - and Bilic will typical Hammers style,
cause theres something out his tactics at home. have to work out how the opening day memo-
rather satisfying about Hopefully we can push to play in a way which ries quickly evaporated
doing Tottenham over. on. Im not emotionally differs from the very before unexpectedly
If Moses turned down ready for a relegation effective away perfor- returning at Anfield.
Tottenham too well thats battle. mances. I feel reasonably After our transfer
the cherry on the cake. TH: After our form in confident that well be deadline day exploits
The Hammers have the second half of last OK. I think that once I am now much more
had a mixed start to the season and our exit in we get that first home confident for the rest of
season, are you more or the Europa League I win under our belt, well the season, we just need
less confident about the thought were more or be fine. to make sure we try and
campaign now than you less where I thought wed AH: To be honest our keep 11 players on the
were four weeks ago? be six points from four Europa campaign hadnt pitch each week to build
a settled side. With more
strength in depth we are
much better equipped to
deal with the inevitable
winter injury crisis.
The win at Anfield was
as spectacular as it
was unexpected - when
else have the Hammers
left you pleasantly
surprised?
JL: In recent years, my
biggest surprise was the
signing of Andy Carroll.
Though that hasnt
turned out as successful
as expected, at the time
I was absolutely buzzing
and gave me the old
excitement I used to
get as a kid. The other
pleasant surprise was the
club fixing the toilets in
the chicken run. What a
time to be alive.
TH: Wins against the
supposed top six are al- Anfield of dreams: We came, we
ways good but Ive been saw and we shocked ourselves
pleased by our purchases
during the transfer win- or loan deals on transfer to nullify them, this the reason we all love
dow. Weve strengthened deadline day! time, we actually had an them. My local newspa-
in all areas, weve added GH: The performance outlet. I loved the pace per had an article before
some flair and width, at Anfield was different that we showed on the the Liverpool match
weve attracted top to previous visits - whilst counter. It was most un- discussing just how in-
players like Payet and weve gone up there, West Ham like - quick, sane West Ham are that
we didnt get lumbered and indeed, to Arsenal, and effective. Ive been he predicted wed win.
with dodgy free transfer in the past and tried surprised by how good So it proved. Difficult
Dimitri Payet is though, to remember when I
hes been the star of the was simply pleasantly
Licensed to thrill:
show. I thought hed be surprised rather than
Dimitri Payet is a
good, but hes the real dumbfounded in shock.
crowd favourite
deal. Cant wait to see I think though making
more of him. the break with Sam Al-
AH: Well, at the lardyce left me pleasantly
moment its more ex- surprised, seeing as we
hiliration one week and all pretty much knew it
crushing disappointment was coming, but still a
the next. I take part in a relief when it happened.
predictions competition West Ham host New-
each week and so far I castle and Norwich this
havent managed to pre- month while there is a
dict a correct West Ham road trip to Manchester
result let alone the score. City. How many points
Were so unpredictable do you think we will get?
but I guess thats part of JL: I think we will
probably end up with
four points though the
optimist in me says six.
City have looked the real
deal this season so a win
there is unlikely though
a win at Anfield and the
Emirates was unlikely!
I like to think we have
enough to overcome
Norwich and the Toon,
but Bilic must sort the
home form.
TH: My heart says six
points but my head says
four. I think a draw with
Newcastle, win against
Norwich and well nar-
rowly lose to Man City.
I really hope we start
performing at home
otherwise it could be a
long season.
GH: If we play to our
full potential I dont
see why we shouldnt enough squad to con-
claim at least six points.
Manchester City is the
interesting one. Theyve the cup. I would think
gone off like a train - but
every team, somewhere
along the line, comes a
little unstuck and drops
points. I wonder if we
could be their banana
skin? Im anticipating tricky team. I would love
somewhere between four
and six points - though
not necessarily in the
games youd expect. a priority especially after
AH: Well, as I said with
my predictions each
week, I have failed to
get even a result correct
for West Ham this
season so asking me is
probably not the best
idea. However as weve
seen this season home
wins are getting scarcer
each year as every team
strengthens to a point
where they can blunt a
home sides attacking Leicester have had a
verve. Newcastle did it
to Manchester United
and they are capable of
doing that to us. And
weve had a great result
against Liverpool so we
probably will come back
down to Earth. No dis-
respect to Norwich but
we have to be targeting
three points for that one,
and Manchester City are
currently playing in a
league of one so it will be
extremely tough to get a
point. Four points wont
be a bad return at all
from those games.
The Capital One Cup
starts this month with
a trip to Leicester City.
How high a priority
should the competition
be on Slaven Bilics to
do list?
JL: We have a good
solidate in the Premier
League and crack on in
the chairmen would
have told Bilic that its a
priority and there is no
reason why we should
progress, though Leices-
ter are proving to be a
a cup run in our final
In the bag: After beating Arsenal and
season at the Boleyn.
Liverpool winning at Manchester
TH: I think it should be
City should be, er, a walk in the park
the palaver of the Europa
League and it would by no means unbeata- really good go. It does
appease fans. A decent ble. Unless we end up seem to be a competi-
cup run would also be really struggling in the tion where teams throw
a fitting tribute for our league, I think we should caution to the wind
last season at the Boleyn approach each game and goals seem to fly
Ground. with a full squad to try in all over the place.
GH: I think we should to win it. After all, we It does seem a nice fit
attack the cup compe- are in round three and for Bilic and with our
titions this season. In so only four wins from more rounded squad
the Capital One Cup, Wembley! why not? The problem
we have a real chance AH: It would be great is getting over the first
of progression. I think to actually win a cup hurdle against Leicester.
competition wouldnt it? Theyre not half bad at
good start, but they are Id love to see us have a the moment! BBM
Slate Nolan all you like, but
you cant say he did not care
A few days before
West Hams fabu-
lous win at Anfield it was
Gone: Kevin Nolan
scored some big
himself he wasnt the
same player who joined
our club all those years
revealed the club had goals for West Ham ago but it wasnt for the
parted company with want of trying.
captain Kevin Nolan. He also scored some
The news wasnt really very important goals for
a surprise and in some us and led us back to the
ways the writing had Premier League after
been on the wall for the we had been relegated
former Newcastle United under Avram Grant. For
and Bolton midfielder that alone he deserves
from the moment Sam our gratitude.
Allardyce didnt have his I heard him talk on the
contract renewed at the radio recently and he
end of last season. was very complimentary
At 33, Nolan was clear- about Slaven Bilic and
ly past his best and Ive spoke positively about
no doubt it was the right the style and the meth-
time to let him move on. ods he was introducing.
For most of last season You cant be a captain
he struggled and didnt of a club for such a long
seem his normal self. time without having
He got plenty of stick some sort of affinity with
from the fans for his per- the club and fans.
formances and I think it Im sure he will find
got to him in the end. It Nevertheless, I think these people have to re- another club and I feel
couldnt have been nice he deserves a bit more member that the players he certainly could have a
hearing the stuff that was respect and gratitude are only human. couple of good years left
hurled his way from the than he has received. One thing you can in the Championship.
stands and Im sure the Some fans feel that, never accuse him of was He says he has still got
abuse he received online because they go to the being lazy. He worked the ambition to play and
would have reached him, games and pay good hard for the team and I for one wish him all
even if he didnt read it money, they can say and did everything he could. the best.
himself. do what they want. But Im sure he would admit As a result of Nolan
leaving Mark Noble was Noble will want to do is
One of our own:
made club captain and, improve the home form.
Mark Noble is the
to me, he was the perfect Its been like this at
perfect choice as
choice. West Ham for a while.
West Ham captain
He is Mr West Ham. I Weve had quite a good
dont know how long this away record over the last
appointment will be for few years but the days
but, if youre looking for of fortress Upton Park
someone who will give seem long gone.
everything for the cause, When I last inter-
it would be him. viewed Allardyce, he
I had one of the first said players really felt
interviews with him the pressure at home
when he first broke and this season when
through to the first team Bournemouth went 2-0
and I know being our up, you could hear the
captain is the biggest booing already.
honour he will probably I dont think it helps
have. I know he still matters. Sometimes the
harbours ambitions of atmosphere can get a
making it into the Eng- little bit too nasty, too
land squad but I think quickly. Im not saying
his time has probably we cant voice our disap-
passed unfortunately, so proval but booing after
to lead West Ham could 20 minutes wont get us
be as good as it gets. anywhere. Sing loud and
One of the first things proud! BBM

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 Michail Antonio
Skills: Our deadline day
signing Michail Antonio
looks great on YouTube

Antonio is a superb piece of

business, you have a diamond
Nottingham Forest fan John Payne on why West Ham have got a gem
P ace, power and goals.
The qualities Michail
Antonio told West Ham
clip of a goal against
Bolton in February. He
controls the ball with his
possibilities of what he
can achieve in claret and
blue.
The clips of him scor-
ing and creating goals
are there in abundance,
fans he will bring to the chest on the halfway line And while I think it during his time at Forest
table after completing and, despite a quarter of is definitely 7million he has led the way both
his deadline day move defenders lying deep, he well spent - and good on in goals and assists, but
from my club, Notting- simply surged through West Ham for picking a what you wont see are
ham Forest. the lot of them before player out of the Cham- the moments when he
Its not an idle boast hammering the ball into pionship rather than didnt look good enough
- the 25-year-old has the net. going for yet another for Tooting & Mitcham,
brought all three in There are plenty of Premier League import - his club up to the age
abundance during his other highlights to be the one warning I would of 18.
all-too-short stay at the found of Antonios best offer is Antonio is He isnt the kind of
City Ground. moments in red to get the ultimate YouTube polished player who
Check out the YouTube you drooling about the footballer. would have come
through your famed
academy, and sometimes
those fault lines show.
With Antonio having
notionally played in a
left-wing role at Forest
their left-backs, such
as the much-maligned
Danny Fox, probably
wont be shedding too
many tears at Antonios
departure.
Tracking back wasnt
generally his forte and,
when he did, you were
often left wishing he
hadnt bothered.
For example, he gave
away a pointless penalty
early in Forests 1-0 FA
Cup humbling at Roch-
dale in January. There
wasnt a poorer player on
the pitch that day.
But in fairness to
Antonio, that was one of
the few occasions where
there wasnt a moment
of magic to more than
make amends.
Twenty goals in 55
games, including four
in five this season, are
impressive figures for a
midfielder playing in a
largely struggling side.
And his value is rising
fast. Fans of his previous
club Sheffield Wednes-
day gave Antonio rather
grudging reviews and
yet the 1.5million paid
by Stuart Pearce, who
seems to have acquired a
reputation as a hopeless
manager, has been mul-
tiplied almost five times
in little over a year at the
City ground.
It will be fascinating
to see how Antonio will
cope in the Premier
League but, while Forest
fans wont like this
comment, returning to
Deadline
day deals
Michail Antonio
was the pick of West
Hams transfer dead-
line day business.
The Forest star ar-
rived for a fee in the
region of 7million
but was also joined
by Hull City striker
Nikica Jelavic (3m)
as well as Alex Song
and Victor Moses,
who both arrived on
season-long loans
from Barcelona and
Chelsea.
The only major
departure was wing-
er Matt Jarvis who
joined Norwich City
on loan.
Striker: Nikica Jelavic joined
West Ham from Hull City and
signed a two-year contract
his London roots and right frame in mind. To to play to his strengths.
joining West Ham seems get 7million for a player Throw him on with 20
a natural step for a play- who wants to go is good minutes to go against
er who had loan spells business for Forest - and a tiring defence, as
in the lower leagues with while his goals and Forest did in a League
Colchester, Southamp- assists will undoubtedly Cup tie at Walsall a few
ton and Cheltenham be missed - it may help weeks ago, and see what
before taking the Cham- current manager Dougie happens.
pionship by storm. Freedman to find a for- Hes unpredictable and
Undoubtedly he had mation that works with an enigma. But unleash
become the main man his preference for two him as an impact player
at Forest and probably more orthodox wingers. and despite his obvious
the first name on the But its also great limitations it wont
team sheet until being business for West Ham, take long for Antonios
left out a couple of weeks whose extra quality and self-assessment to come
ago because transfer strength in depth will to fruition. As the man
speculation meant he take away the burden on himself says: pace, pow-
apparently wasnt in the Antonio and allow you er, goals. BBM
 Europa League exit

Were West Ham right to throw

the towel in on a Euro dream?
Two Blowing Bubbles writers represent the different points of view

Yes!
SAYS
EMILY PULHAM
W hen it came to
West Hams in-
volvement in the Europa
League, we came, we saw
but we certainly didnt
conquer after getting un-
ceremoniously dumped
out of the competition
after just six games.
Im not exactly crying
in my cornflakes about
our early Europa League
exit though.
Im embarrassed and a
bit disappointed but how
easily we capitulated
against Romanian side
Astra Giurgiu, but Im Exit: West Ham sent
also sorry to say that I a very young side to
think our early exit from play in Romania
the Europa League was a
blessing. games last season in do with depth of squad job internationally?
West Ham quite simply which we had a goal something which Probably not a high-
arent ready to compete scored against us in the West Ham are certainly light of our first home
in any other league ex- last ten minutes of the improving on, but still Europa League game was
cept the Premier League game its a disparag- havent quite mastered. watching Jarvis narrowly
right now. ingly long list. At the time our B-side get past an FC Lusitans
If we had to play two We can barely play for consisted of Matt Jarvis, defender who was wear-
games most weeks, the 90 minutes each week Modibo Maiga and ing just one boot.
extra time wed spend on theres no way were Kevin Nolan three It didnt bode well for
the pitch per week would ready to play 180 min- players whom fans playing against teams
destroy us. utes per week instead. have spent the past few like Ajax and Schalke.
At the moment, West Furthermore, the trick seasons moaning that The biggest obstacle for
Ham normally only play to doing reasonably they arent good enough West Ham to have the
for 80 minutes per game. well in Europe and the for the Premier League depth in squad is to do
Think of how many Premier League is to so are they up for the with injuries.
 No!
familiar? Even still,
they went into that
season and embraced
it.
SAYS They won all seven
JAMES JONES of their pre-season
friendlies, saw off

B efore I get started, Malmo and Petro-

lets get one thing lul Ploiesti in the
straight playing in Europa League third
the Europa League qualifying round and
this season probably qualifiers respectively,
wouldve affected our finished second in
performances domes- their group behind Va-
tically. lencia and were then
Youve only got to knocked out in the
look at how Spurs and round of 32 by Napoli.
Everton have suffered Where did they
as a result of their finish in the league?
annual exploits in the 12th, just three posi-
competition over the tions lower than the
years. previous season.
A slump in league Their record in the
position this season league games directly
would have us too after Europa League
close to the bottom fixtures read W2 D4
three to even contem- L4, which isnt great
plate. and yes, they did
The simple fact is we improve slightly once
cannot afford to move they were out of the
into the Olympic Sta- competition.
dium as a Champion- Swansea showed the
ship side. competition respect
It just cant happen, and are living proof
Success: Swansea that it can be done,
City enjoyed a great we all know it. But isnt
thinking wed struggle and Id say theyre
run in Europa and doing pretty well a
did not go down against relegation a bit
too presumptuous in couple of seasons on,
the first place? too.
Our league position is points, especially con- When Swansea But well never know
the most crucial focus in sidering the subsequent City qualified for the whether we wouldve
the season heading into lack of points against Europa League after been able to cope with
the Olympic Stadium. Leicester City and AFC winning the League both competitions,
We have to prioritise a Bournemouth at Upton Cup in 2013, they and its that fact that
mid-table or higher fin- Park. arguably had a similar really grates on me.
ish in the league at any I would love for us to strength squad to the Actually, the
cost to maintain stability play in Europe, but I one we have now. simple fact we wont
and a sense of growth. would love it more for us It wasnt a squad experience one final
Im not sorry we rested to do so when we genu- capable of mounting European night at the
our best players against inely have the depth in a challenge for the Boleyn Ground grates
Astra in order to record squad to ensure we dont top six, nor was it one on me more.
an inspiring win over suffer in the league and capable of winning the But its ok, at least
Arsenal those are three right now, regretfully, Europa League. Sound well still finish 12th.
tremendously valuable just isnt that time. BBM
FROZEN IN TIME
Sunday, August 9, 2015: West Hams players celebrate after
beating Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates on the opening day
of the season. Goals from Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro
Zarate gave new boss Slaven Bilic a winning start.
 Joey Barton
Bartons case proves Di Canio
must never be Hammers boss
West Ham dont want saints but the Claret and Blue needs integrity
BRIAN WILLIAMS
@BrainWill26
T
heres no denying
that, on his day, Joey
Barton, is a top class
player.
On the other hand,
someone who has
achieved everlasting
notoriety by stubbing
out a cigar in a young
kids eye is clearly not a
nice person.
Let me put my cards
on the table. Im relieved
that he didnt join West
Ham.
I didnt go so far as to done a number of things
sign online petitions and
tweet my disapproval
when a prospective
move was being mooted,
but I was pleased that
the deal fell through.
The question remains,
however, should a mans
behavior off the field
make a crucial difference
to the way supporters
feel about what he does
on it?
I understand the who who are lucky enough
are we to judge argu- to wear claret and blue
ment all too well, having
7,500 after admitting
being drunk and disor-
derly and assaulting a
policeman.
He paid his penalty,
just as any other mem-
ber of society would be
expected to do, and it
would have been wrong
for him to be punished
twice for the same
offence by being sanc-
tioned by his employer.
But its a different
matter when it comes
to signing a player who
has been dogged by
controversy all his career
that sends out a totally
different message.
Even if inviting
Iconic: Some West Ham someone to play for you
fans would love to see doesnt actually condone
Paolo Di Canio back as previous bad behavior
manager one day (which in Bartons case
includes two convictions
reers matters to me. No
for violence resulting in
in my life that Im none one says footballers have
77 days behind bars) it
too proud of. to be saints. But they are
certainly says a club is
I also believe that held up as role models
prepared to turn a blind
everyone is entitled to and they represent the
eye in its direction.
a second chance if and club they play for in the
By the same token we
when they face up to eyes of supporters and
never should have signed
their mistakes. detractors alike.
Lee Bowyer, not once
However, there is more Its one thing when a
but twice. An on-field
to supporting a football player who is already on
punch-up with a team-
club than the number of a clubs books steps out
mate is bad enough a
games you win (unless of line.
racially motivated attack
youre Chelsea) and the No doubt James Tom-
on McDonalds staff is
integrity of those players kins seriously regrets the
far worse.
incident in December
Paolo Di Canio is pos-
2013 that resulted him
sibly the most intriguing
at some time in their ca- being fined more than
character ever to be on
Rebel without a
club: Joey Barton
almost signed for
West Ham
West Hams books.
Many supporters
would like to see him
back at the club in the
managers office. He
himself believes it is his
destiny.
He was a wonderful
player for our club one
of the best weve ever
had.
Anyone who has ever
seen his astonishing goal
against Wimbledon as
he morphed into Neo
from the Matrix to volley
home Trevor Sinclairs
cross will know instantly
what Im talking about.
Goal of the season?
That was the goal of a
Too important: There is
lifetime.
no place for fascism at
There are so many
West Ham United
Di Canio memories:
the fantastic moment
he scored in 118 ap-
of sportsmanship that
pearances by hailing the
won him the Fifa fair
crowd with a straight-
play award when, rather
armed fascist salute.
than head home into an
But he did just that
empty net, he caught the
when he returned to
cross and demanded that
Lazio the club he
play be stopped until
supported as a boy and
the prostrate Everton
notorious for its links
keeper was restored to
to extreme right-wing
full health; the time he
politics. And he did it
wrestled junior Frank
more than once.
Lampard for the ball
Di Canio is adamant
when we were awarded
that hes not a racist,
a penalty in the amazing
which rather suggests he
comeback game against
Bradford City in which Talent: Joey Barton doesnt fully understand
we turned a 2-4 deficit is a very good player what fascism is all about.
into a 5-4 victory. - but is that enough? A political movement
that is based on the idea
And theres no doubt-
leader Benito Mussolini, back wasnt enough, that the people of one
ing his love of West
complete with military his arm carries a tattoo nation are inherently su-
Ham; hes even got the
helmet. that says Dux, the Latin perior to those of other
tattoo to prove it.
Mussolini, Adolph translation of Duce. countries and continents
The trouble is, hes got
Hitlers closest ally and In his time at West is inherently racist and
other tattoos as well, and
architect of one of the Ham, from 1999 to 2003, it doesnt become any
they are a good deal less
most repulsive ideolo- Di Canio wisely kept more palatable when the
savoury. His back alone
gies mankind has dreamt his political thoughts to believers of this idiocy
is a tribute to fascism,
up, liked to be known as himself. try to implement their
featuring a symbolic
Il Duce The Leader. If Neither did he cele- way of thinking with
imperial eagle and a por-
the picture on Di Canios brate any of the 48 goals extreme violence.
trait of Italian wartime
 Politics has no place in could throw at them as
football, say Di Canios the bombs rained down Smart: Hammers
supporters. I disagree during the blitz. boss Slaven Bilic
politics and money go They even coined a turned down the
hand in hand, and theres phrase to encapsulate chance to sign
a lot of money in Pre- their defiance We can Joey Barton
mier League football. take it.
But even if they were I think there is
right, there are some something in the DNA
things that are just of every West Ham
wrong. To appoint a supporter that yearns for
man who has aligned one of our great players
himself so closely to to return as manager and
fascism as club manager create a side in his own
would do untold damage image.
to the credibility of West But Im sorry Paolo, it
Ham. can never be you.
The East End has a You see, if you were
proud tradition of resist- to get the job it would
ing fascists. The Battle send out the message
of Cable Street sent to those who want to
Oswald Mosely and his intimidate anyone they
blackshirts packing as dislike because of their
they tried to spread their colour, their religion or
message of fear. their sexuality that it is
And the people of the somehow all right to do
area withstood the worst so. And that we couldnt
Hitler and his airforce take. BBM
 Slaven Bilic
This is my club. I played the
best football of my career here
Slaven Bilic tells Marcus Johns why this is more than just business
A s the Premier
League campaign
reignites itself in the ear-
ly weeks of the season,
already managers are
beginning to make rash,
bold statements.
The final whistle goes,
and hurting from the
defeat, managers are
rushed straight in front
of the media where
more often than not they
proceed to shoot straight
from the hip, waving
goodbye to rhyme and
reason.
Not so with Slaven
Bilic. Every time he
speaks, you can tell it is
with careful considera-
tion, thought and plan-
ning. Something which
appears to transcend
across to his team. Gone
already are the panicked
long punts into the box
hoping to find a West
Ham head.
His patient and
calculated approach is
already beginning to
show through. With
Bilic, you suspect that
preparation is key in
every way - none more
so apparent than when
he was discussing the
Arsenal game.
The players now think
about the game. Against
Arsenal, we wanted
some of their players
to have the ball. Not all
of them not Cazorla,
not Ramsey . When
they have the ball, we
attack them. But others,
we could rest in our
positions. The theory is
simple, but in practice
that is where it matters,
and the players did this
brilliantly. But it is just a
start. The confidence is
now there, but there is
much more hard work
to do.
Some people have
tried to call it total
football.but I dont
know. Maybe Barcelona
can play and say ok,
lets let our opponents
have a few chances, well
get 25 ourselves but
even they have times
where they need players
behind the ball against
good opponents. It is
not to sacrifice your
attacking, but doing the
job properly. We spent
the few days before the
game telling everyone
come on, we can do it.
Some believed, some
didnt some say maybe.
But they played the way
I wanted and they did
it extremely well but it is
still early days.
Early days indeed. Ear-
ly days into the season,
into Bilics reign and also
into a new philosophy at
the club that has already
seen an excitement from
the fans that wasnt there
under Allardyce. Not
that Bilic is prepared to
hear anything bad said
about his predecessor.
I have to say that Sam
did a great job. Its a very
stable club. Were not a
massive club, so stability
is important which is a
situation for me to build
on, a very good corner-
stone. Watching last year
I thought it was a good
season. The first part was is Mr West Ham. We are
probably the best part of
a season West Ham has
had for many years. The
second part, not so good.
But they were unlucky
injuries, unlucky results,
and perhaps a little bit
of a lack of motivation
when the team knew
they were safe.
Not that you can
imagine motivation
being a problem with
the imposing figure of
Bilic watching over you, previous regime was a
especially with Julian
Dicks alongside him.
A name that at its mere
mention brings a huge
grin to Slavens face.
Wherever I manage, career here and enjoyed
I have my usual team of
two from Croatia and
one from Germany, but I
always like to have a lo-
cal coach but one who
I trust, and I can have in
what I call my first ring
(of confidants). With Ju-
lian, we played together,
he was my captain, he
was my room-mate and
he was my friend. He
was a great captain, hes a
great coach and hes very
loyal. But this is not just
a friendly appointment.
His football knowledge
is great, and he has a
superb philosophy. Hes
great for this club as he
close, but also very dif-
ferent. As you have seen,
I sometimes need half an
hour to say something,
but Julian comes in, says
five things and pow! Hes
nailed it. For me hes a
gift from God!
A gift from God he
may be for Slaven, but
also for us West Ham
fans. One of the things
that was perceived to
be lacking under the
passion for the club. Not
so with Bilic
I always say West
Ham is my club. I played
the best football of my
every moment. It really
felt like a family. After I
left, I used to check with I wanted to make sure
people, and everyone West Ham was safe.
says its the same. Sure, Everton didnt like it, but
different faces, but they had to accept it.
same ethos. Its a very Its clear that Bilic is a
special club, in a city I man who has ambition.
love my son was born With Besiktas, he took
here and when you them to the Champions
throw in the fact its the League qualifiers, then
Premier League. Wow. the last 16 of the Europa
Thats every managers League. Is this some-
ambition. thing he believes he can
Ill be honest, after emulate with West Ham,
managing Besiktas, and do our ambitions
part of me wanted a match his own?
rest. I really enjoyed my With the Premier
time in Turkey, but it is League, competition for
intense. When I made places is tough. Many Passion: Slaven
the decision to resign, it teams finish with similar Bilic says West
was with a plan to take points, one or two re- Ham can get a
a few months out to sults and it all changes. If lot better
rest. But when the West we can remain positive,
Ham chairman called, we will go as high as
I suddenly say I dont possible. BBM
want a rest.
With his affinity
towards West Ham so
obvious, it begs the ques-
tion as to why he ever
left us in the first place
At the time, Id been
voted Sportsman of the
Year back in Croatia.
The National Team was
doing well and suddenly
everyone was asking me
why I was involved in
relegation battles and
not winning trophies,
or competing in the
Champions League.
Then Everton came
in with a plan on how
they were going to start
challenging for the titles,
how they had money to
spend and where they
wanted to get to and I
believed it. They had
wanted me before the
March deadline, but I
knew West Ham had
tough games coming up,
so I said no, Ill sign at
the end of the season.
 Morgan Amalfitano
Should Morgan Amalfitano get
a chance to redeem himself?
David Meagher says the Hammers must be careful over the winger
D espite the two home
defeats Slaven Bilic
has enjoyed a relatively
positive start to life back
at the Boleyn.
He has played a more
attacking football style,
brought in entertaining
players like Payet and
Lanzini, taken a chance
with our previously
undernourished kids,
and ended the 15-game
Arsenal jinx.
Bringing in Julian
Dicks was, as he de-
scribed it, a gift from series of misdemean-
God as a return to the
family has helped us
return to the West Ham
way.
But inevitably, the first
spat has arrived. Morgan
Amalfitano signed a
two-year extension with
West Ham in March, but
his career at Upton Park
has suddenly come off
the rails.
The Frenchman was
recently banished to
train with the devel-
opment squad after a to other players.
In trouble: West Ham winger Morgan Amalfitano
has fallen out with Hammers boss Slaven Bilic
ours including giving
attitude to the manager
after failing to attend a
West Brom, Aston Villa,
and even Hull are appar-
ently interested. So what
team meeting. should the Hammers
To date, Bilic has been management team do?
refreshingly open in his Amalfitano is an inter-
dealings with the media esting player. At his best
and explained that musketeering down the
Amalfitanos punishment wing, at worst hanging
was to maintain harmo- off the margins of the
ny in the first team. action.
However, it is less clear His goals against
whether Amalfitano will Manchester City and
make a return or will be Liverpool last season
forced out as an example were highlights, but
equally he can be waste-
Already the likes of ful in possession due to
his propensity for taking
high risk options that are
exciting when they come
off but frustrating when
they dont. crucially undermined
His signing was
deemed a coup for West
Ham, but perhaps the
Baggies werent quite as respects the Amalfitano
disappointed to miss out
as was reported.
Bilic favours the 4-2-3-
1 system which requires
energetic and pacey wide
players something best if this aligned to
that is in relatively short
supply in the current
squad.
Amalfitano fits readily
into that system and
with the departure of
Stewart Downing we are
very reliant upon the
continued fitness of Pay-
et, Moses and Antonio.
On balance. our
experiences of Amalfi-
tano have been mostly
positive and he would
have provided a decent
option to release from
the bench in the defeats
against Leicester and
Bournemouth.
He is a player who can
spring a surprise and
many Hammers fans
hoped that he might
form a useful under-
standing with fellow
Frenchman Dimitri
Payet
But discipline is
essential within any
squad and every new
management team needs
to set out its stall in
terms of what will not be
tolerated.
With six red cards
already in nine com-
petitive fixtures this
year, the Hammers are
a different beast to the
fair-play winning squad
of last season. Of note,
Bilics charge towards the
Turkish League title last
year with Besiktas was
by their massive 10 red
card haul.
However, in some
row provides an excel-
lent opportunity for Bilic
and company to make
an important point, but
such strategies play out
the ability to learn and
move on.
With the dispute
rumbling on without
any sign of Amalfitano
re-entering the first team
fold, it looks like West
Ham have lost a useful
option.
As the saga drags on,
its also worth noting
that the Frenchmans
wages are estimated at
one and a half million
quid a year which is ap-
proximately 30K a week
at that money one
wonders who is suffering
most, player or club? Hard to shift: West
The issue also high- Ham found it tough
lights one of the great to move Modibo
challenges in todays Maiga on this year
Premier League where
player earnings are so ages to get rid of him. Bilic has been
high that it is very dif- While we all clamour for open-minded in his
ficult to offload players new signings, perhaps dealings with Mauro
who become surplus to its worth remembering Zarate and now surely
requirements. that those that dont Amalfitano should get
Poor old Modibo Mai- work out are very costly a chance to redeem
ga was a classic case in indeed. himself.
point. Clearly unsuited Ultimately, this episode During his time
to the English game, is a great chance for the Allardyce was quick to
he needed to escape to management team to deal with unacceptable
other pastures where demonstrate their dyna- behaviour by pushing
his relaxed style is more mism. They have made players out on loan a
effective. their point about the strategy that limits the
However, he was importance of discipline fallout from such dis-
trapped by the golden but now need to show putes. Lets hope that the
handcuffs of a lucrative that everybody will get a matter can be sorted out
contract and it took us fair chance. quickly. BBM
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 Angelo Ogbonna

Ogbonna has the raw tools to

be a huge success at the back
David Bowden says the Italian defender can adapt to English football
A s strong as an ox
and as quick as a
cheetah, I believe Angelo
Class: Angelo
Ogbonna has
He impressed as he
rose through the ranks
at Torino and made his
Ogbonna is going to be the skills to debut as an 18-year-old.
a more than useful ac- be a Premier Dubbed as a rising star
quisition to West Hams League star during his seven-year
squad. stay at the club, he
He became the secured a move to near
Hammers sixth summer neighbours and Italian
signing when he joined giants Juventus in 2013.
from Juventus in early Despite enjoying an
July and is a very wel- ever-growing reputation
come recruit to the Irons he found opportunities
back four. few and far between at
Capped ten times by the Old Lady appearing
Italy, Ogbonna is known just 41 times during his
for his quick deci- two-year stint at the
sion-making, strength Italian champions. That
on the ball, and is left doesnt tell the whole
footed which adds a nice story though, getting
balance to the back-line ahead of the superstars
Despite standing at at Juve is a tough task in
6ft 3 inches, Ogbonna is itself with Giorgio Chiel-
also known for his speed lini, Andrea Barzagli and
and reading of the game Martin Caceres all in
and I have no doubts front of Ogbonna in the
that he will be able to it is good enough for quite a coup for Slaven pecking order.
settle quickly in the Ginge, it is good enough Bilic. Regardless of finding
Premier League. for me. Born to Nigerian par- opportunities limited the
Ive felt for a number Speaking to a few ents in Cassino in Italy, 27-year-old did enjoy
of years now that we London-based West he gained his Italian a very successful spell
need another centre back Ham fans that follow citizenship shortly after at the Turin-based club
at the club but to have Juventus as their second his 18th birthday. securing two-league
secured one with such club, they seem to think He plied his youth titles and an Champi-
experience and pedigree he will prove to be a very trade at local club A.S.D ons League runners-up
is a credit to the club. astute piece of business Nuova Cassino in Italys medal before securing a
The 27-year-old for the Irons. sixth division before move to London.
received praise from his The collective opinion catching the eye of Fingers crossed that
new teammate James is that a few years ago he Torino General Manager his success in Italy is
Collins who described would have demanded a Antonia Comi who only the start for Angelo
him as a good communi- much bigger transfer fee, brought the youngster to as he embarks on his
cator, quick and a great so it seems as though he the club for 4,000 as a new career with West
reader of the game. If could well prove to be 14-year-old. Ham. BBM
 Reece Oxford

Visions of a brighter future as

Oxford graduates with honours
Youngster showed his class in Premier League debut against Arsenal
Hams academy from
Big future: Reece Spurs to play for the
Oxford now has Under 13s.
the football world It was only three years
at his feet before he began training
with the U21s and the
senior squad.
He penned his first
LUCY WOOLFORD professional contract
@lucy_whufc on the same day as

W
teammate Reece Burke,
hat were you do-
a move which Academy
ing aged 16 years
manager Terry Westley
and 237 days?
believed showed the
No, I cant remember
commitment they have
either, but it certain-
to the club.
ly wasnt anything
Westley told the press:
life-changing like mak-
This makes a statement
ing my Premier League
to other clubs out there
debut, or any kind of
that were not going to
debut for that matter.
let our best players leave
When you put into
and go elsewhere to ply
perspective the average
their trade a statement
activities of 16-year-olds,
we all hope to be true.
it makes the achieve-
didnt really notice him. Ham in the Premier With Reeces growing
ments of young Reece
I know that sounds a lit- League. confidence, he hoped
Oxford all the more
tle harsh and unobserv- When asked about that he would be ready
impressive.
ant, but to me its a sign special moments in for first team action in
He made his West
that he put in a confident the game, his reply of: time to make his debut
Ham first team debut
performance that was When they brought on at the Olympic Stadium,
against Arsenal on the
worthy of the first team, Sanchez, was a great way an expectation that
first day of this season,
in what was a pretty to reflect how much he he has already clearly
and what a performance.
solid team show. had to metaphorically surpassed.
His debut sent waves
His interviews after- pinch himself whilst He was also given the
through the footballing
wards, though, showed relying on his more honor of captaining Eng-
world. As happy Ham-
his teenage excitement experienced team-mates lands U17s in the UEFA
mers fans, we couldnt
and it was refreshing. to keep his feet firmly on European Under-17
be prouder of nurturing
His words were profes- the ground. Championship this year
this wonder-kid and
sional and balanced but This dream start came and can proudly say that
letting him show zil
his eyes and his smile after several years of he reached the quar-
and co. whos boss.
told of his pure joy at hard work. ter-finals with the squad.
For me, I knew he had
starting a game for West Oxford joined West There are, of course,
a good game because I
consequences to such a
great start in a career.
In this day and age, a
young star, especially an
English one, cant have
one great game without
the hype-machines going
into overdrive.
Wonderful for living
in the moment, but
with scouts ears widely
pinned open, hype is a
dangerous game.
West Ham want to be
that club again, the one
that keeps hold of its
most valuable teen-
age stars in hope that
they will retain their
claret and blue roots and
remain with the club
through good times and
bad.
Hence, immediate calls
for hushing up about
this wondrous Oxford
performance.
Slaven Bilic increased
calls to dampen the
hype, except he came
Mentor: Slaven
from the angle of
Bilic will be able
protecting a teenager
to help Oxford
in the game but hes not
stupid, he knows how
good an asset this kid is forget thanks to his com- respected member of the For me, Bilic has got
and he doesnt want Mr. mitment to the cause team. Which leads nicely Oxfords well being
Abramovich. et al getting and all round ability. into what comes next firmly in his sights and
a whiff of the news. No matter what profes- for Reece Oxford. Well, the plan is to carry on
Bilic said: I spoke sion were talking about, much of the same wed playing him for as long
about him after the to be 16 years old and all hope. as he can physically and
Arsenal game, then ahead of your game is His second appearance mentally handle; perhaps
Monday, Tuesday, tough and Reece Oxford against Leicester was a rest on the bench every
Thursday. needs the protection of less than ideal, but such few matches to keep him
We are talking about his family, management, disappointments can on his toes.
Oxford and its not colleagues and fans. happen to any player at The future is bright for
good for me and its not Hes got a good role any time. him if he can continue to
good for him. I have no model in Mark Noble, The important thing work hard.
problem doing it but its who himself made his is that he dusts himself Itd be a real shame
no good for the game on full West Ham debut at off and doesnt get too if he was a one season
Saturday. 17 and was a regular first disheartened. It wont do wonder, but with the
Bilic is right, even teamer by the age of 20. him any harm to have right management to
though were being Mark has always kept games like he did against boost, hes got the com-
constantly reminded that his feet on the ground Ranieris men itll help posure and skill to be a
Reece is only 16 years and has grown to be- his physical development longstanding West Ham
old, its all so easy to come a greatly loved and and mental strength. hero. BBM
 Summer Special 2015
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 Supporters club of the month

#6: Hammers Genova

When, how and why was
group founded? Proud: The Genova
The group Hammers Hammers pose with
Genova was estab- their flag
lished in January 2015.
Previously, the boys of
the group were part of
the Martelli dItalia -
Sezione Genova.
After some divisions
within the Martelli
it was decided we
would start walking by
ourselves, aware that we
have already had a good
number of members.
The group was estab-
lished to bring together
all West Ham fans in
Genova and Liguria.
How many members
in your group today? group, the material, the the English culture in day was the game against
How quickly has that organization of trips to general, and many many Fulham won 3-0 in the
membership risen since London, etc. other things. 2013-2014 season, it was
you founded? Our group meets at How many times do the first away match of
The group now has Poldos Bar, a pub in members travel to the group.
about 30 active members Genova, which is also games? What have been What are the benefits
and more than 350 fans our home. Here we your most memorable of being part of your
on Facebook. Every look at the matches, we days as a supporters group?
week someone gets organize events on the club? Anyone who wants
in touch with us to football, we project films We try to be present to get in touch with
know more about the on English football or as much as possible in our clubs can email us
London, in line with the athammersgenova@
financial resources of gmail.com, look for
each of us. us on Facebook and
The airport of Genova Twitter.
is small so every time we We always try to
have to move to Milan respond to everyone as
or Pisa to take the plane soon as possible and we
and this involves addi- are willing to send ma-
tional expense. Basically terial as stickers, shirts
we try to be in London and scarves. Being part
at least 2-3 times a year. of our group is like being
Scarves out: The group in action
The most memorable part of a big family. BBM
 West Ham Ladies

Ill prepare West Ham Ladies

as well as Real Madrid would
David Blackmore talks to Marc Nurse about his plans for the Irons
W est Ham Ladies
manager Marc
Nurse is looking forward
interview but with the
amount of interest there
was in the role, I knew it
to the challenge of would be tough. When
creating a side capable of my interview was over, I
challenging for titles and wasnt sure how I did but
trophies. I was delighted to get the
There have been plenty call offering me the role.
of players come and go Whats nice for me is
over the summer and the that the chairmen and I
Hammers boss has set think the same, we have
himself and his players the same outlook and
a mid-table target for same ambitions. They
the upcoming campaign are doing some incred-
but will crank up the ible work off the pitch
pressure the following and everything is really
season. positive theres a great
And Nurse said he al- vibe around the club at
ready knew plenty about Big plans: Marc the moment.
the Ladies from his time Nurse says he He continued: The La-
working with the Crystal wants to win dies were very welcom-
Palace Ladies. things with West ing when I met them.
Theyve always had a Ham Ladies For the first training
history of being a strong session I just watched
side but theyve just not now is to make sure we success of the Lionesses, them train and the next
been able to regularly build a strong competi- was inspired to apply. few sessions it was a case
compete at the top end tive team. Its going to be I thought this role of getting involved more,
of the table, he said. Of a tough first season but was perfect for me, he showing them my ideas
course Im hoping that Im willing to do what continued. It fits around and how I want them
this will change but my it takes. my working life as a to play.
aim for this season is to He added: At the secondary school PE Our pre-season wasnt
finish mid-table and do moment, Im enjoying teacher, I live in Basildon the best because of
well in the cups. every minute and I cant so its easy enough for the sides we were up
There were quite a wait for the next game me to get to the training against. The teams were
few players who left in to arrive Sundays cant ground and our home in leagues below us and
the summer and weve come soon enough for ground and it just felt I didnt learn a lot about
brought in plenty of new me! like applying for this role the players from these
faces so this season will Nurse saw the role ad- was a natural thing for games.
about gelling together. vertised on Twitter and me to do. It would be hard for
Next season I want us fresh from watching the I thought I would get any manager to take
to be challenging to win coverage of the Womens onto the shortlist and I things away to work on
the league but my task World Cup and the was confident Id get an when your team wins
16-0. I wouldve liked to
have played teams above Through: West
us because it wouldve Ham Ladies beat
helped me to see where Crystal Palace 3-0
we are at and what we
need to do to get to that
next level.
We did, however,
learn a lot from our first
game when we lost 5-0 at
Coventry. We were miss-
ing six key players who
wouldve all started but I
took away a lot from that
experience.
Aside from the expo-
sure offered to the Ladies
after Julian Dicks left his
post as manager to join
Slaven Bilics coaching
staff, the Hammers
enjoyed an incredible
amount of coverage in
India after goalkeeper
Aditi Chauhan became
the countrys first wom-
an to play English league
football.
Not that column inch-
es was at the forefront of
Nurses mind when he
recruited the shot-stop-
per.
She was training with
Millwall but her visa
doesnt allow her to play
in the Womens Super
I just needed to sign a on board. As for his information about the
League so she joined us
good goalkeeper! coaching inspirations, other team.
and then it went mad,
As for the challenge of the Arsenal fan pointed You cant be going
Nurse continued. There
trying to recruit women at Arsene Wenger but into games blind and
was huge interest from
players, something also to Chelsea boss guessing when you are
India and the story ap-
former boss Dicks Jose Mourinho. I like running a team. For
peared on most of Indias
described as incredibly the way he is. If I was a me, it doesnt matter if
major TV networks and
difficult during his time player, I would like to you are in charge of the
news organisations. I
in charge, Nurse added: play for him. I like the West Ham Ladies or
know Aditi has been on
Ive got quite a few confidence he has and Real Madrid, you need
TV over there and its
friends who work in his winning mentality. to plan and prepare all
great for the West Ham
schools and colleges and He added: My big the time.
Ladies but also the West
Im speaking to them all thing, as a coach, is You need to keep
Ham brand as a whole.
on a regular basis. being as prepared as I looking at everything
When she signed, I
Theyve been sending can be. Theres no point you need both on and
honestly wasnt thinking
girls over to us and going into a game and off the pitch to maximise
about the PR or mar-
hopefully this will help having no clue what you your sides potential.
keting side of what her
us get good players are doing or having any BBM
signature might mean
 The last word
This is Slavens team now so
the adventure starts for real
Julian Shea claims the transfer window has transformed West Ham
A t the end of the
January transfer
window, West Ham
co-owner David Gold
famously told fans Dont
go to bed, before a big
fat nothing happened.
But the morning
after the August transfer
window shut, West Ham
fans would have woken
up wondering if they
were still dreaming.
In short, manager
Slaven Bilic has played
a blinder. His deals, sign-
ing Nottingham Forest
winger Michail Antonio
and Hull striker Nikica
Jelavic, and landing Bar-
celona midfielder Alex
Song and Chelsea winger
Victor Moses on loan,
mean the new manager
for the clubs new era has
now bought an entire
new team of players.
A good window can
make all the difference
to a teams season, as
West Ham found to their
cost in 2002-03, the first
time the window was
introduced. Injuries
to Paolo Di Canio and
Freddie Kanoute saw the
clubs first-choice strikers
sidelined for lengthy
periods of time, leaving
19-year-old Jermain
Defoe to carry the at-
tacking burden. And we
all know how that season
Happy: Slaven
Bilic enjoyed
gards Jelavic as someone
he can trust. Antonio has
been around the block
deadline day
quite a bit for a 25-year-
old, but started every
league game for Forest
last season and was
named their player of the
year. He has continued
that form this season,
and could turn out to be
inspired business.
Song arrived on loan
amid much fanfare last
season, initially making
a huge impact, before
going off the boil. When
fit, however, he can make
a huge difference, and
hopefully a better atmos-
phere at the club than
last season might inspire
him to the heights again.
Moses is an enigma
turned out. Mercifully The signing of his a headline grabber at
West Hams failure to do fellow Croat, Jelavic, is Crystal Palace whose
business this January did clearly his pick. A back- career has spluttered
not come at such a heavy ground playing in Aus- since, but if he can find
price, but somewhere tria and Scotland may his form, the thought of
in a parallel universe, not be the most accurate him and Dimitri Payet in
there is the reality where of form guides, but the the same team will have
Emmanuel Adebayor 30-year-old has a decent Irons fans drooling.
did sign, the team had a amount of Premier Bilic has been given
better end of season, and League experience now the money and opportu-
Sam Allardyce received a and was a fan favourite nity to stamp his mark
new contract. at Everton before joining on the team and shape it
In the real world, Hull, so knows what is as he wants and he has
however, none of those expected of him and has taken it. Dead wood has
things happened, which shown he is up to it. been removed from
is why it is Bilic who Also, having given him now on, this is officially
was trusted with the his professional (Hajduk Slaven Bilics Claret and
spending money and Split) and international Blue Army. The adven-
to spectacular effect. debuts, Bilic clearly re- ture starts here. BBM
Never miss a kick...

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