Come On You Irons!
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Logo.png

Premise: My goal is first and foremost to get West Ham United back into the Premier League where they rightfully belong. After an absolutely brutal 2010-11 season, the Hammers find themselves in England's second tier, the npower Championship. Predicted to win the league, it may not be the greatest challenge at the outset, but as my favourite team, this is where I'll be starting.

West Ham United: A Background
Founded in 1985, West Ham United are a professional English club currently playing in the npower Championship. The club play their home games at the historic Boleyn Ground and possess good training facilities and boast an excellent youth facility, which is also known worldwide as the 'Academy of Football.' The West Ham reserves play their matches at Woodside Park. The club also has good junior coaching and a well established youth recruitment network. The club is affectionately known as The Hammers or The Irons. Supporters can be heard singing 'Forever Blowing Bubbles' during matches and the club retains fierce rivalries with London clubs Tottenham Hotspur, Millwall and Chelsea.

The club enjoyed their best spell of success during the 1960s and have not won a competition since 1981. However, West Ham have a history of which they can be justly proud. They won the Cup Winners Cup in 1965, won the prestigious FA Cup in 1964, 1975 and 1980 andwon the English second tier in 1958 and 1981.

Recent times have been tough however, with the Hammers narrowly avoiding administration when Norwegian ownership was hit hard by the financial crisis of 2008. The club had invested in a number of high profile transfers that did not pan out, ballooning the wage bill with injured players past their best. The club was rescued when bought by lifelong supporters Davids Gold and Sullivan, who have repeatedly vowed that they will turn the club around and bring about a golden age for West Ham United football.

West Ham United: Staff
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West Ham United: First Team
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West Ham United: Reserve Team
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West Ham United: U18 Team
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05/07/2011 – News
Kafka Takes West Ham Job
Sky Sports News has reported that little known German manager Otto Kafka has agreed to take over the reins at Upton Park, becoming West Ham United's newest manager following the sacking of Avram Grant. Kafka takes the job with the expectation from the board that the club will bounce back to the Premier League immediately or risk being sacked himself. While West Ham supporters weren't keen on the club potentially hiring 'Big' Sam Allardyce, the appointment of the unknown German has raised more than a few eyebrows.

Will Otto Kafka be able to exceed in a foreign country with the weight of one of England's most prestigious clubs on his shoulders? Only time will tell.

Hammers Loan Situation
West Ham currently has a number of players on loan from elsewhere, and has loaned players of their own out as well.

Currently at the club from elsewhere:
DL George McCartney (Sunderland), MR David Bentley (Tottenham), MC Henri Lansbury (Arsenal) and ST Brian Montenegro (Tacuary).

Currently serving with other clubs:
ST Ahmed Abdulla (Swindon), DC Jordan Spence (Bristol City) and AMR Pabo Barrera (Zaragoza)

Kafka has said that he will consider looking at the players with the team on loan and take salary, as well as performance into consideration of keeping them for the season. As it stands, David Bentley is on

West Ham United Depth Chart
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Season Expectations
The Sun reports that Davids Gold and Sullivan are expecting nothing less than the npower Championship from new manager Otto Kafka's squad. They are also reporting that the new manager will have a transfer war-chest of around �£5m at his disposal, as well as a payroll budget of £550,000 per week. The Sun estimates that the club is currently spending £499,677 per week currently.

06/07/11 – News
Bentley, McCartney and Montenegro Sent Packing
West Ham United manager Otto Kafka has already begun trimming the fat from his large squad. Just one day on it and he has sent forward Brian Montenegro back to Tacuary without him having ever played in a match. Winger David Bentley has also been told to return to Tottenham, as the German will not require his services. Fullback George McCartney has also been sent back to Sunderland. The three moves will save the club an estimated £76,000 per week in salary.

Pundits across London are predicting that West Ham will roll out with a 4-3-3 in the upcoming season due to the strength in depth at central midfield and along the attacking front. Bentley's loan termination is certainly a potential precursor of this becoming a reality. West Ham supporters have been craving a return to attacking football for sometime. Gianfranco Zola and Avram Grant, Kafka's predecessors failed to provide the entertainment that the Boleyn Ground's support desires.

Newcastle Trailing Tomkins
Sky Sports understands that Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has lodged a £3.1m transfer bid for West Ham central defender James Tomkins. The bid was rejected immediately, with Kafka telling his managerial counterpart that the defender was an important first team player at the Boleyn Ground and would not be leaving for any amount.

With the rejection of Newcastle's bid, West Ham has declared a hands-off warning on the player.

Valencia In For Faubert
Another sign that Kafka is serious about going to a 4-3-3 formation has emerged, with the club accepting a £1.8m bid for right midfielder Julien Faubert from Spanish side Valencia. Faubert has struggled to make an impact at West Ham since he was originally signed, spending time on loan at Real Madrid in 2008-2009. He made a £6m move to Upton Park in 2007 under the Norwegian regime. The club seems to be willing to take a big loss on the player in order to clear his £31,000 per week salary from the books.

Interest in the Frenchman is high, with Blackburn, Bolton and Stoke also said to be interested in acquiring the player.

07/07/11 – News
Hammers Prove Tomkins Love
West Ham United and James Tomkins have already put to rest any thought of him moving on as the player signed a new four year contract worth £4m. Tomkins has already made 60 appearances in a West Ham shirt and is held in high regard by the coaching staff.

09/07/11 – Player Signing
Hammers Snap Up Wilson
West Ham United have secured the signing of Liverpool central defender Danny Wilson on a year long loan. Wilson, who made just two appearances for Liverpool last season after his move from Scottish club Rangers is relishing the opportunity that has been afforded him by Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish. The defender is believed to have a bright future ahead of him at Anfield and has said that he is looking forward to gaining much needed first team experience.

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10/07/11 – News
Gillingham Sign Montano
Gillingham have made a loan offer for West Ham's Christian Montano, which has been accepted. The young Colombian forward will join the League 2 club for six months. Management at Gillingham believes the player will become a valuable member of the first-team and West Ham is keen to let the striker get some much needed playing time.

Faubert Rejects Valencia
Julien Faubert has dismissed Valencia's contract offer as unacceptable and insulting, declaring that he will not sign for such 'risible basic pay.'

12/07/11 – Friendly
West Ham United 0 – 0 CF Monterrey

Demel Knocked
Fullback Guy Demel has suffered a bruised rib after a late tackle during the match with Monterrey. The Ivorian is expected to miss around a week while being treated for the injury. Demel is a new addition to West Ham, having joined in June from German side Hamburger SV.

15/07/11 – Staff Signings
Kafka Adds Staff, Scouts
Otto Kafka has moved to fortify his scouting and coaching staff by signing former Everton and Fulham youth coach John Murtough as a general coach. The German has also added English scouts Jack Champman, Paul Montgomery and Steve Nickson, as well as German scout Erich Beer.

16/07/11 – Friendly, Staff Signing
Newtown AFC 1 – 2 West Ham United

Kafka Adds Fitness Team
When Otto Kafka arrived at West Ham, he noticed there were no fitness coaches or experts to be found. This has now changed with the German agreeing to terms with Englishmen Paul Winsper and Adrian Lamb. The two coaches will focus on the strength and conditioning of the players.

17/07/11 – News
Season Ticket Update
West Ham United have announced the latest figure from ongoing season ticket sales. As of this update, the club has sold 18,109 tickets for the upcoming season. The board expects to sell another 5,700 to bring the total to near 23,800.

18/07/11 – Friendly, News
Carmarthen Town 0 – 3 West Ham United

Lee Turns Professional
Young striker Elliot Lee has signed his first professional contract, a three year deal with the club. Lee is a pacy forward with good potential, but is expected to spend most of the season with the U18 squad.

Laudrup Completes Staff
Otto Kafka has declared his coaching staff complete after signing Danish coach Brian Laudrup. The coach had been out of work since leaving Danish club Lyngby II when his contract expired.

21/07/11 – Player Signing
Hammers Sign Greek Youngster
West Ham have completed the signing of Panserraikos' nineteen year old Greek central midfielder Dimitris Anakoglou for a fee of £240,000. Anakoglou started his career at Municipal Ground of Serres, making 41 appearances over three seasons before the move today. The player himself has said that he can't wait to break into the first team and though he doesn't expect to play right away, he will work hard to get there.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DimitrisAnakoglou.png

22/07/11 – Friendly
Huddersfield Town 0 – 4 West Ham United

Sears Injured
Winger / Forward Freddie Sears has suffered a twisted knee after twisting sharply during the match against Huddersfield. Is is likely that the player will miss 2-3 weeks while recovering.

23/07/11 – News
Birmingham After Collison
Birmingham boss Chris Hughton has stated a desire in bringing West Ham midfielder Jack Collison to St. Andrews, but Otto Kafka has issued a hands off warning in response. Collison is seen as an integral part to West Ham's season and the youngster will not be allowed to leave under Kafka's watch.

24/07/11 – News
Season Ticket Update
West Ham United have announced the latest figure from ongoing season ticket sales. As of this update, the club has sold 22,000 tickets for the upcoming season. The board is expecting to sell another 1,800 as the season approaches.

28/07/11 – Friendly
West Ham United 1 – 1 Granada C.F.

29/07/11 – News
West Ham Draw Southend
West Ham United will face Southend United in the Carling Cup first round. The match will be played at The Boleyn Ground on 10th August, 2011.

30/07/11 – Player Signing
Hammers Add Aldrete
West Ham United have signed 23 year old Mexican left-back Adrián Aldrete from Morelia for £2m. Aldrete made 153 appearances for Morelia during the 7 years he spent at Estadio Morelos. The player is expected to provide competition at left-back for incumbent Herita Ilunga, pushing him for a starting spot.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AdrinAldrete.png

03/08/11 – News
Dag & Red Acquire Lee
West Ham's Oliver Lee has joined Dag & Red on loan for 5 months. The management team at Dag & Red sees Lee as a valuable first team member while he's with the club and West Ham will see the player gain development through playing time.

05/08/11 – News
Fanimo to Macclesfield
West Ham's Matthias Fanimo has agreed a deal with Macclesfield and will join the club on a 5 month loan.

Always love reading the FM dynasties. Thought about getting the demo, but I don't like having Steam on my computer so I kind of pass on it. Don't have a lot of time to get into anything else anyways. What are some of the major changes that make FM 12 better than 11? I'm still partial to WWSM 07, it was by far the funnest to me.

06/08/11 – npower Championship Match Day #1
Coventry City 1 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Coventry: Jutkiewicz (7) West Ham: Carew (pen 41, 90+3), Faye (61)
Shots/On Target: Coventry 9/4, West Ham 16/8
Possession: Coventry 52/48
Man of the Match: John Carew

Form: Green 6.8, Demel 7.2, Faye 7.7, Tomkins 7.3, Ilunga 6.8, Lansbury 8.1, Nolan (off 65') 6.7, Collison 6.8, Baldock 7.7, Cole 6.2, Carew 8.6, Noble (on 65') 6.8

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ywGIQBdb_6I" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

08/08/11 – News
Sears Back
Freddie Sears has returned to full training following recovery from his twisted knee.

09/08/11 – Awards
Lansbury Named
West Ham midfielder Henri Lansbury has been selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Always love reading the FM dynasties. Thought about getting the demo, but I don't like having Steam on my computer so I kind of pass on it. Don't have a lot of time to get into anything else anyways. What are some of the major changes that make FM 12 better than 11? I'm still partial to WWSM 07, it was by far the funnest to me.

The addition of a true depth chart is a huge addition, they've expanded player talks and pre-match, half-time and post-match pep talks to run a gamut of emotions from Assertive to Calm. They've completely revamped the search feature making it much, much easier to find players. They've refined the agents a bit more as well, though I haven't played around enough to get too deep into that side of it. Scouting reports now tell you not only a player's best position, but their best role in that position as well, which I find fantastic.

10/08/11 – Carling Cup (first round)
West Ham United 3 – 0 Southend United
Goals: West Ham: Noble (pen 13), Faye (20, 48)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 19/5, Southend 4/1
Possession: West Ham 69/31
Cautions: Southend: Timlin (Y 68)
Man of the Match: Abdoulaye Faye

Form: Boffin 7.3, Faubert (off 83') 7.3, Faye 9.3, Tomkins 7.4, Aldrete 7.3, Noble (off 45') 8.0, Diop 7.2, Nolan 6.9, Baldock 7.9, Cole 6.8, Piquionne 6.8, Wearen (on 45) 6.6

Notes:
- With a number of players on international duty, a number of different players were drafted in to the starting XI.
- Mark Noble picked up a knock just before halftime and was subbed out for Eoin Wearen.
- Julien Faubert was injured on 83' and was replaced by Matty Taylor.
- Abdoulaye Faye (DC) has 3 goals in his first 2 appearances.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/uzSqXLLgrlY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Carling Cup Draw
West Ham United will travel to Colchester United for the Carling Cup second round. The League 1 side will host the Hammers at Weston Homes Community Stadium on 23rd August, 2011.

Thanks for the updates. Sounds like I could at least check out the demo. I wish I had more time. The only thing that really bugs me is Steam. My computer tech absolutely hates Steam and every time he finds it on my computer I have to deal with a lecture. lol, I've never had a problem with it, but he says it takes over your computer and you can't do anything else while steam is running. What is your experience with it, since that is the only way to get the game now?

Thanks for the updates. Sounds like I could at least check out the demo. I wish I had more time. The only thing that really bugs me is Steam. My computer tech absolutely hates Steam and every time he finds it on my computer I have to deal with a lecture. lol, I've never had a problem with it, but he says it takes over your computer and you can't do anything else while steam is running. What is your experience with it, since that is the only way to get the game now?

I've never had any issues with Steam on any of my machines.

so would you suggest trying to find time to download the demo and check it out? I really do wanan check it out

Absolutely! If you don't like the demo or steam, you can always just uninstall both!

13/08/11 – npower Championship Match Day #2
West Ham United 2 – 0 Crystal Palace
Goals: West Ham: Carew (31), Piquionne (73)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/6, Palace 9/3
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Piquionne (Y 38'), Reid (Y 40') Palace: Murray (Y 39'), Ramage (Y 65'), Jedinak (Y 82')
Man of the Match: Herita Ilunga

Form: Green 6.8, Reid 7.3, Wilson 6.9, Tomkins 7.2, Ilunga 7.5, Noble (off 61) 6.8, Collison 6.9, Lansbury (off 61) 7.1, Piquionne 7.4, Cole 6.8, Carew 7.3, Nolan (on 61) 5.7, Anakoglou (on 61) 6.6

Notes:
- Lansbury subbed off for Anakoglou because of a knock on 61'
- Noble subbed off for Nolan because of fatigue on 61'

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2eOCnLDo4p8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Lansbury Injury
Henri Lansbury has sustained a damaged elbow after landing on it heavily during the match with Crystal Palace. The central midfielder is expected to miss up to two weeks while he is treated.

I'm agree that Steam works fine for me too. Good to see FM12 in the flesh, I always wait a bit before plunging on new versions, but this looks great so far and you've hit the dynasty forum with a flourish. Great stuff.

I'm agree that Steam works fine for me too. Good to see FM12 in the flesh, I always wait a bit before plunging on new versions, but this looks great so far and you've hit the dynasty forum with a flourish. Great stuff.

Thanks!

16/08/11 – npower Championship Match Day #3
Millwall 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Baldock (35), Tomkins (44), Collison (50)
Shots/On Target: Millwall 13/3, West Ham 16/8
Possession: Millwall 54/46
Cautions: Millwall: Purse (Y 74) West Ham: Aldrete (Y 58), Nolan (Y 64)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Green 6.8, Demel 8.0, Faye 7.9, Tomkins 8.7, Aldrete 7.2, Noble 7.1, Collison 8.0, Nolan 8.3, Baldock 7.9, Cole 6.3, Carew 7.4

Notes:
- Sam Baldock's 35th minute goal was his first as a West Ham player.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/qv-7-2byJmI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

18/08/11 – FIFA Rankings
1. Holland
2. Spain
3. Germany
4. England
5. Uruguay
6. Italy
7. Brazil
8. Portugal
9. Argentina
10. Croatia

20/08/11 – npower Championship Match Day #4
West Ham United 1 – 1 Brighton & Hove Albion
Goals: West Ham: Carew (pen 57) Brighton: Faye (o.g. 3)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 7/4, Brighton 6/1
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Diop (Y 18), Reid (Y 86) Brighton: Routis (R 56)
Man of the Match: Herita Ilunga

Form: Green 6.7, Reid 6.8, Faye 6.6, Wilson 6.6, Ilunga 7.1, Noble 6.6, Diop 6.8, Anakoglou 6.8, Baldock 6.6, Cole 6.8, Carew 6.7

Notes:
- Carlton Cole had a goal ruled offside (12')
- Brighton's Routis was sent off for pulling Sam Baldock down in front of goal.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/sSM2rtUEUFM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

23/08/11 – Awards
Trio Named
James Tomkins, Kevin Nolan and Jack collison were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Thanks for the updates. Sounds like I could at least check out the demo. I wish I had more time. The only thing that really bugs me is Steam. My computer tech absolutely hates Steam and every time he finds it on my computer I have to deal with a lecture. lol, I've never had a problem with it, but he says it takes over your computer and you can't do anything else while steam is running. What is your experience with it, since that is the only way to get the game now?

He really said that? :eek: I know some people are paranoid about it but that is, just wow.

Great start Grover. Look forward to following along. :)

Justin is a fantastic writer, and I'm glad to see he's taken off here. Keep it up, brother.

23/08/11 – Carling Cup (second round)
Colchester United 1 – 4 West Ham United
Goals: Colchester: Okuonghae (13) West Ham: Carew (19), Piquionne (35), Faubert (42), Faye (84)
Shots/On Target: Colchester 7/3, West Ham 14/8
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: Colchester: Vincent (28)
Man of the Match: Papa Bouba Diop

Form: Green 7.3, Faubert 8.5, Faye 7.9, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 7.0, Nolan (off 70) 6.9, Diop 8.6, Anakoglou 7.6, Baldock 7.0, Piquionne 7.7, Carew 7.7, Noble (on 70) 6.9

Notes:
Nolan injured (70), replaced by Noble.

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Nolan Injury
Kevin Nolan sustained a dead leg following his collision with Kem Izzet during the match with Colchester. The captain is expected to miss at most four days with the injury.

24/08/11 – Player Signing
Hammers Snap Up Macheda
West Ham United have secured the loan signing of Manchester United's Federico Macheda. The young Italian will join the Championship club for the rest of the season.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FedericoMacheda.png

25/08/11 – News
Lansbury Back
Henri Lansbury has returned to full training after missing 12 days with a damaged elbow.

27/08/11 – npower Championship Match Day #5
Birmingham City 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Faye (16), Baldock (49), Collison (86)
Shots/On Target: Brum 9/2, West ham 13/4
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Carew (Y 25)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 7.8, Faye 8.5, Tomkins 7.7, Ilunga 7.5, Noble 7.7, Collison 7.8, Anakoglou 8.5, Baldock 7.7, Macheda 6.9, Carew 7.1

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YcZZUVIPRg0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Carling Cup Draw
West Ham United will travel to the Madejski Stadium to take on Reading in the Carling Cup third round. The match will be played on 20th September 2011.

Four Called Up
For international matches on 2nd and 6th September.
Robert Green (England), John Carew (Norway), Jack Collison (Wales), Jordan Spence (England U21)

31/08/11 – Awards, News
Duo Named
Abdoulaye Faye and Dimitris Anakoglou were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Two Called Up
For international matches on 6th September.
Marek Stech (Czech Republic U21), Dimitris Anakoglou (Greece U21)

01/09/11 – August In Review
Training Report
Frank Nouble (strength), Sam Cowler (strength) and Sergio Sanchez (aerobic) have been impressing Paul Winsper and Adrian Lamb on the training field, although there have been concerns about the progress of Abdoulaye Faye (strength).

Among the youth players, Danny Potts (tactics), Robert Hall (aerobic) and George Moncur (strength) have been impressing Neil McDonald and Alex Gibson, although there have been concerns about the progress of Dylan Tombides (ball control) and Blair Turgott (defending).

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is satisfied with Kafka's coaching of the team. Thios has been underlined by the convincing 3-0 victory over bitter rivals Millwall. Although a loss of £2.96m was recorded last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugustStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugustTable.png

Sweet, go Hammers!!

As blasphemous as it is West Ham and Tottenham are my two favorite sides.

Sweet, go Hammers!!

As blasphemous as it is West Ham and Tottenham are my two favorite sides.

How can you possibly like Spurs!?

04/09/11 – Injury
Sears Injured
Freddie Sears was noticed to be in some discomfort following training today and is suffering from a hip injury. The forward will need to see a specialist and will miss 2-3 months while he undergoes treatment.

10/09/11 – npower Championship Match Day #6
West Ham United 5 – 0 Cardiff City
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (6), Faye (22), Carew (56, 69, pen 84)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/9, Cardiff 11/2
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 4), Faye (Y 17), Ilunga (Y 45) Cardiff: Elek (Y 3)
Man of the Match: John Carew

Form: Green 7.1, Demel 8.1, Faye 8.8, Tomkins 7.9, Ilunga 8.0, Noble 7.2, Collison 8.8, Anakoglou 8.2, Baldock 7.2, Macheda 8.1, Carew 9.7

Notes:
- Sam Baldock had a goal ruled offside (37)
- John Carew is 3/3 on penalty kicks this season

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/K9likXIqJL0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

13/09/11 – Awards
Trio Named
Abdoulaye Faye, Jack Collison and John Carew were selected in the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

17/09/11 – npower Championship Match Day #7
Watford 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (25), Tomkins (58), Nolan (85)
Shots/On Target: Watford 7/4, West Ham 12/5
Possession: Watford 53/47
Cautions: Watford: Eustace (Y 88) West Ham: Ilunga (Y 11), Anakoglou (Y 78)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Green 7.5, Demel (off 61) 7.2, Faye 7.5, Tomkins 8.3, Ilunga 7.3, Noble (off 61) 6.9, Collison (off 61) 6.8, Anakoglou 8.8, Baldock 6.8, Macheda 7.7, Carew 6.9, Diop (on 61) 6.9, Nolan (on 61) 7.3, Reid (on 61) 6.9

Notes:
- Kevin Nolan's goal was his first as a West Ham player.
- Dimitris Anakoglou assisted on all three goals and now has six helpers in six appearances.

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I enjoy the way you present the dynasty.

I enjoy the way you present the dynasty.

Thank you!

20/09/11 – Carling Cup (third round), Awards
Reading 1 – 3 West Ham United (et)
Goals: Reading: Hunt (73) West Ham: Carew (17), Nolan (100), Cole (114)
Shots/On Target: Reading 13/4, West Ham 22/12
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: Reading: Hunt (Y 46, Y/R 76), Viler (Y 57), Leigertwood (Y 68) West Ham: Aldrete (Y 64), Demel (Y 88), Tomkins (Y 113)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 7.2, Demel 8.1, Faye 7.4, Tomkins 7.8, Aldrete 7.4, Nolan 7.5, Diop 7.3, Lansbury 7.5, Piquionne 7.8, Cole 8.2, Carew 7.5

Notes:
- Reading's Noel Hunt had a goal ruled offside (41).
- Noel Hunt was sent off for a professional foul and his second yellow card (76). Hunt and James Tomkins were chasing down a ball toward the West Ham box when Hunt pulled his man down from behind.
- Carlton Cole's goal was his first of the season and it took 374 minutes to get it.
- Championship club Burnley shocked Manchester United, dumping them out of the Carling Cup with a 2-0 win at Turf Moor.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-WG9X_Ac9hI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Duo Named
Robert Green and Dimitris Anakoglou were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Your getting a ton of shots off, what tactic are you using Grover?

Your getting a ton of shots off, what tactic are you using Grover?

Standard 4-3-3.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Tactics.png

Using two ball-winning midfielders to keep and recycle possession, while the Poacher and Deep Lying Forwards will spread wide and act as wingers, though the fullbacks will push quite far up the pitch in order to get the forwards more centralized. Despite using a balanced approach, the tactic is quite free flowing.

Fun note: the only time we've been held under 12 shots was the 1-1 draw with Brighton.

24/09/11 – Carling Cup Draw, npower Championship Match Day #8
Hammers Get Rangers
West Ham will face Queens Park Rangers in the fourth round of the Carling Cup. The London-based clubs will square off on 25th October 2011 at Loftus Road.

West Ham United 3 – 1 Ipswich Town
Goals: West Ham: Cole (9, 45+2), Wilson (83) Ipswich: Ephraim (85)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 20/9, Ipswich 9/4
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Ipswich: Fanchone (Y 30)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 7.0, Reid 6.8, Wilson 8.3, Tomkins 6.9, Ilunga 7.3, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 8.1, Baldock 8.0, Cole 8.8, Macheda 6.4

Notes:
- Jay Emmanuel-Thomas went in alone against Rob Green (60) and completely missed the goal with his attempt.
- Danny Wilson's headed goal from Anakoglou's corner was his first as a West Ham player and his first in English football.
- Hogan Ephraim's goal (85) was his first for Ipswich and the first against his former club.
- Dimitris Anakoglou now has assists in five matches running, seven on the season.
- Federico Macheda was near invisible as the left sided forward, but Sam Baldock was immense, finding space down the right and cutting open the Ipswich defense on a number of occasions.

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27/09/11 – Awards, npower Championship Match Day #9
Trio Named
Danny Wilson, Dimitris Anakoglou and Carlton Cole were selected in the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Derby County 0 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Piquionne (21), Carew (44)
Shots/On Target: Derby 8/2, West Ham 11/5
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Aldrete (Y 62, Y/R 84), Noble (Y 68)
Man of the Match: Guy Demel

Form: Green 6.8, Faye 7.5, Demel 9.0, Tomkins 7.1, Aldrete 7.4, Noble 6.9, Collison (off 66) 6.9, Anakoglou 7.2, Piquionne 7.8, Cole 6.9, Carew 7.5, Diop (on 66) 6.7

Notes:
- John Carew took a wicked shot (2) that hit the upright, came back off the keeper's back and out for a corner.
- Carew's goal was his 10th of the season.
- Mark Noble had a shot (47) deflect off the underside of the crossbar and come back out.
- Adrian Aldrete was sent off for his second caution after clipping the heels of a Derby player. Adrete was judged to be the last man.
- Today was just the second match in all competitions where West Ham have been held below 12 shots.

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Aldrete Suspended
Following his sending off at Derby County, Adrian Aldrete has been given an automatic one match suspension. The suspension will apply for all domestic competitions and will begin immediately, meaning Aldrete will be suspended for the npower Championship clash with Bristol City. A match he was likely to sit out anyway.

Aldrete has been given and accepted a warning for his conduct on the pitch.

01/10/11 – September In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Abdoulaye Faye (tactics), Kevin Nolan (strength) and Sam Cowler (strength) have been impressing Neil McDonald and Adrian Lamb, though there have been concerns about the progress of Guy Demel (attacking) and Callum McNaughton (aerobic).

Among the youth players, Kieran Sadlier (strength), Jake Young (strength) and Jake Larkins (strength) have been impressing Lamb and Peter Drake with their progress.

Board Confidence
The board is pleased with Kafka's leading of the team. The capture of Dimitris Anakoglou, who the fans believe to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Although a loss of £3.05m was recorded last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptemberStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptemberTable.png

01/10/11 – Call-ups, npower Championship Match Day #10
Five Called Up
For international matches on 7th and 11th October.
Robert Green (England), Jack Collison (Wales), Sebastian Lletget (USA U20), Marek Stech (Czech Republic U21), Dimitris Anakoglou (Greece U21)

West Ham United 4 – 1 Bristol City
Goals: West Ham: Cole (9, 24), Carew (22), Faye (38) Bristol: Stead (75)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 20/7, Bristol 6/1
Possession: West Ham 65/35
Cautions: West Ham: Ilunga (Y 7), Collison (Y 89)
Man of the Match: Guy Demel

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 9.1, Faye 7.9, Tomkins 7.1, Ilunga 7.2, Nolan 6.8, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 8.2, Piquionne 7.0, Cole 7.5, Carew 7.8

Notes:
- Bristol's Damien Stewart fouled Carlton Cole in the box (49). Cole missed the ensuing penalty shot wide left.
- We allow another goal from poor set piece defending.
- West Ham absolutely dominates the match in every aspect. Bristol City employed a central back three, with two holding midfielders to try and stop the 4-3-3. City did not account for the fullbacks getting forward and acting as wingers. Guy Demel whipped in cross after cross and was rewarded with three assists in the game's first 25 minutes.

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Ilunga Suspended
Fullback Herita Ilunga has been suspended for one match following his fifth booking of the season.

Derby Fire Clough
Nigel Clough has been fired by Derby County president Tom Glick. Derby have been disappointing so far this season, finding themselves in 19th place.

04/10/11 – Awards
Trio Named
Guy Demel, Dimitris Anakoglou and John Carew were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

07/10/11 – News
Derby Hire New Manager
Derby County have hired Gordon Strachan as their new manager.

15/10/11 – npower Championship Match Day #11
Hull City 2 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Hull: McLean (53), Fryatt (60) West Ham: Cole (23, 72), Carew (45+3)
Shots/On Target: Hull 11/5, West Ham 13/4
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Hull: Chester (Y 7)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 6.8, Faye 6.9, Aldrete 6.2, Nolan 6.9, Collison 7.1, Anakoglou 7.8, Baldock 6.9, Cole 8.8, Carew 7.3

Notes:
This is the first match in all competitions in which West Ham have allowed more than one goal.

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16/10/11 – News
Nolan To Mentor
Kevin Nolan is going to take youngster Dimitris Anakoglou under his wing and tutor the young central midfielder. West Ham management holds the Greek player in high regard and feel that the influence of Nolan will do wonders for his progression.

Vose Joins Southend
Promising midfielder Dominic Vose will join Southend United on loan for one month. Otto Kafka has said he wants the player to get some first team experience and with the glut of options in midfield at West Ham, it will have to be elsewhere.

Vose has been called the next Paul Gascoigne. (I just hope he doesn't start drinking)

18/10/11 – npower Championship Match Day #12
West Ham United 2 – 1 Peterborough
Goals: West Ham: Cole (39, 87), Posh: Mackie (60)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 19/7, Posh 9/3
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 46), Ilunga (R 50) Posh: Mackie (Y 62), Little (75)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Green 6.8, Piquionne (off 50) 6.6, Faye 8.4, Reid 6.8, Wilson 7.0, Noble (off 50) 6.6, Diop 6.8, Anakoglou 8.7, Cole 8.5, Ilunga (off 50) 6.9, Macheda 6.8, Nolan (on 50) 6.6, Faubert (on 50) 6.7

Notes:
- Assisting on both goals, Dimitris Anakoglou continues to impress and now has 11 assists in as many matches.
- Herita Ilunga was given a straight red for a vicious tackle from behind on George Boyd.
- Carlton Cole was awarded a penalty (90) after a foul in the box. It was saved by the keeper, Cole is now 0/2 on penalty kicks this season. Both missed opportunities were while Cole was sitting on two goals in the match.

Ilunga Suspended
Herita Ilunga has been suspended for one match following his dismissal against Peterborough. He has taken and accepted a warning for his conduct.

Anakoglou Honored
Dimitris Anakoglou has once again been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Cardiff, Leeds Fire Managers
Cardiff City have fired manager Malky Mackay after a disappointing start to the campaign. Cardiff, who were expected to challenge for promotion, find themselves sitting bottom of the table.

Leeds United, who also expected to challenge for promotion have fired manager Simon Grayson as the club finds themselves in 20th.

19/10/11 – Records
West Ham United have broken their consecutive games won record with 10 straight between 23rd August and 18th October.

I highly endorse this thread.

22/10/11 – npower Championship Match Day #13
Reading 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Reading: Kebe (60) West Ham: Faye (45+2)
Shots/On Target: Reading 15/3, West Ham 9/3
Possession: Reading 59/41
Cautions: West Ham: Nolan (R 13), Anakoglou (Y 41), Noble (Y 67)
Man of the Match: Guy Demel

Form: Green 6.7, Demel 7.8, Faye 7.3, Tomkins 6.9, Aldrete 7.1, Collison 6.6, Anakoglou 6.7, Cole 6.7, Carew (off 80) 6.7, Noble (on 13) 6.6

Notes:
- Kevin Nolan was shown a straight red for a cynical studs-up tackle.
- Due to the red card, Sam Baldock was taken off and replaced by Mark Noble, moving the tem into a 4-3-2 formation.
- John Carew was taken off injured (80)
- To say that we were lucky to get a point out of this match was a huge understatement. We were on the back foot from the moment Nolan got his marching orders.
- Baldock, Nolan and Piquionne were not on the pitch long enough to be given form ratings.
- This marks the first game we were out-shot by the opponent and the second in which we were held under 10 shots. Both times we have drawn 1-1.

Nolan Suspended
Kevin Nolan has been suspended for one match after being sent off for a vicious foul against Reading. The midfielder has accepted a warning about his conduct.

Carew Injured
Bad news for the Hammers as John Carew's injury is worse than feared. The Norwegian international has suffered a torn calf muscle and will miss four months while recovering and undergoing treatment. Carew had been sensational for West Ham to date, knocking in 12 goals and 4 assists in 13 matches with an average match rating of 7.55. With the injury, more will be expected from Federico Macheda and Frederic Piquionne.

25/10/11 – Carling Cup (fourth Round)
Queens Park Rangers 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (10, 16), Cole (90 + 1)
Shots/On Target: QPR 9/0, West Ham 12/6
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: QPR: Novaretti (Y 66), Yurevich (Y 70), Young (Y 75) West Ham: Faubert (Y 56), Diop (Y 68)
Man of the Match: Federico Macheda

Form: Green 6.9, Faubert 7.7, Wilson 7.9, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 7.9, Noble 6.9, Diop 7.0, Lansbury 8.4, Baldock 6.9, Cole 8.3, Macheda 8.8

Notes:
- Macheda's second goal was a fantastic poacher's effort. A misplaced pass from the left flank into QPR's own box was intercepted right in front of goal and slotted home.

Leeds Hire Sam
Leeds United have hired long-ball master “Big” Sam Allardyce to take the reigns of the struggling Elland Road club.

Ilunga Banned Further
Herita Ilunga has been banned for a further two matches for his sending off against Peterborough.

28/10/11 – News
Cardiff Hire Belgian
Cardiff City have hired Rene Vandereycken as their new manager. Management and supporters will surely be hoping their new boss can inspire the players and bring fresh momentum to the club.

Taylor Concerned
Matty Taylor is concerned about his lack of opportunities in the first team with the Hammers this season. Kafka has told the left sided midfielder that he will let him go in the next transfer window, as there's no place for him in the current squad.

29/10/11 – News, npower Championship Match Day #14
Carling Cup Draw
The final 8 for the Carling Cup are in the pot and they are the following clubs: Arsenal, Bolton, Leicester City, Manchester City, Millwall, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham and Wolverhampton.

West Ham will host Wolverhampton at The Boleyn Ground on 30th November, 2011.

The other matches are:
Leicester City v. Manchester City
Arsenal v. Tottenham Hotspur
Millwall v. Bolton Wanderers

Nolan Suspended Further
Hammers captain Kevin Nolan has been suspended for a further two matches after his sending off against Reading.

West Ham United 5 – 0 Barnsley
Goals: West Ham: Baldock (18), Noble (pen 45+2), Cole (47), Collison (75), Anakoglou (84)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 30/11, Barnsley 3/0
Possession: West Ham 67/33
Cautions: West Ham: Faye (Y 42), Wilson (Y 51) Barnsley: Doyle (R 31)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Green 7.0, Demel 8.7, Faye 8.5, Tomkins (off 38) 5.7, Aldrete 8.1, Noble 9.0, Collison 8.2, Anakoglou 8.8, Baldock 8.1, Cole 8.4, Macheda 8.3, Wilson (on 38) 7.4

Notes:
- Nathan Doyle of Barnsley was given a straight red for a cynical tackle from behind on Mark Noble.
- James Tomkins was taken off injured after 38 minutes, replaced by Danny Wilson.
- Carlton Cole had a goal ruled offside (40)
- Rob Edwards was called for a foul in the box, resulting in a penalty. Mark Noble converted the penalty because he is not Carlton Cole.
- Anakoglou's first goal for the club was a stunner. Taking the ball from 20 yards out to the left of goal, dribbling past four Barnsley players and slotting a left footed shot into the roof of the net. Class.

01/11/11 – October In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Mark Noble (attacking), Jack Collison (tactics) and Callum Driver (strength) have been impressing Neil McDonald and Adrian Lamb. There have been concerns about the progress of Adrian Aldrete (ball control).

Among the youth players, Kieran Sadlier (strength), Leo Chambers 9strength) and Lamar Hurley (aerobic) have impressed Lamb and Peter Drake. However, George Moncur (aerobic) and Sam Baxter (tactics) have struggled.

Board Confidence
The board is pleased with Otto Kafka's leading of the team, underlined by the 5-0 victory over Barnsley. Despite a loss of £3.44m last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

The biggest problem with the club is, of course, wages. We're paying Premier League wages to a lot of players and salaries are only about £400,000 less than the monthly turnover.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctoberStats.png

npower Championship Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctChampStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctoberTable.png

02/11/11 – npower Championship Match Day #15
Portsmouth 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (50)
Shots/On Target: Portsmouth 8/2, West Ham 10/4
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Portsmouth: Ward (Y 67), Mokoena (Y 75)
Man of the Match: Herita Ilunga

Form: Green 6.7, Demel 7.2, Faye 7.5, Wilson 6.9, Ilunga 7.7, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.3, Anakoglou 6.9, Baldock 6.9, Cole 6.9, Macheda 7.3

Notes:
- A drab match in which the highlight was truly Macheda's goal. A terrific 35 yard lob that the Portsmouth keeper was unable to get back to.
- Our first win of the campaign when being held to 10 shots or fewer.

First Call-Up
Kieran Sadlier has earned his first call-up, being chosen to be part of the Ireland U19 side for matches on 10th and 14th November.

05/11/11 – Call-ups, npower Championship Match Day #16
Four Called-Up
Four Hammers have been called up for matches on 11th and 15th November:
Herita Ilunga (Congo), Sebastian Lletget (USA U20), Marek Stech (Czech Republic (U21), Dimitris Anakoglou (Greece U21)

West Ham United 2 – 1 Leeds United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (56), Nolan (59) Leeds: Snodgrass (14)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/8, Leeds 7/1
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Man of the Match: Henri Lansbury

Form: Green 6.8, Faubert 7.3, Faye 7.0, Wilson 6.9, Aldrete 6.8, Nolan 7.3, Diop 6.9, Lansbury 7.5, Baldock 6.7, Piquionne 6.8, Cole 7.2

Notes:
With a number of our first team members getting the day off after the Portsmouth win, we struggled mightily in the first half. Cole and Nolan's quickfire double gave the club a jolt, but this was not a great performance.
Lansbury continues to impress when playing for Anakoglou. His assist on Nolan's goal proved to be the decider.

Hammers Pay Lyon
West Ham have paid Olympique Lyonnair £500,000 as part of Frederic Piquionne's transfer deal. The player has now played in 40 league matches for West Ham.

06/11/11 – Call-Ups
Four Recalled
Four West Ham players have been recalled for international matches on 12th and 16th November.
Robert Green (England), Adrian Aldrete (Mexico), Jack Collison (Wales) and Winston Reid (New Zealand)

07/11/11- News
Sears Back
Freddie Sears has returned to full training following his long layoff with a hip injury.

Jones Hired
Brighton and Hove Albion have hired former Cardiff boss Dave Jones to the reins of the 18th placed Championship squad.

11/11/11 – Progress
Aldrete Improving
Adrian Aldrete has been showing remarkable improvement through training and Neil McDonald feels his development is due to Otto Kafka's guidance and further first team experience should only help him blossom.

17/11/11 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA Top Ten
1. Spain +1
2. Holland -1
3. Uruguay +3
4. England
5. Germany -2
6. Italy -1
7. Argentina +3
8. Greece -1
9. Brazil -1
10. Russia -1

19/11/11 – npower Championship Match Day #17
Nottingham Forest 1 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Forest: Tudgay (48) West Ham: Morgan (o.g. 11), Noble (68), Piquionne (79)
Shots/On Target: Forest 11/6, West Ham 17/11
Possession: Forest 54/46
Cautions: Forest: Gunter (Y 2), Tudgay (Y 35), Boateng (Y 42), Lynch (Y 82) West Ham: Aldrete (Y 65)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Green 7.3, Demel 7.1, Faye 7.2, Tomkins (off 62) 5.1, Aldrete 7.1, Noble 8.2, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 6.9, Baldock 7.0, Macheda (off 62) 6.7, Cole 7.6, Wilson (on 62) 6.9, Piquionne (on 62) 7.4

Notes:
- Sam Baldock had a goal ruled offside (89)
- Up until the substitutions were made, Forest were on the front foot and seemingly had the inside route to picking up all three points.
- Wilson came on and solidified the back four after an uncharacteristically bad performance from Tomkins.

22/11/11 – Awards
Noble Named
Mark Noble has been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

23/11/11 – npower Championship Match Day #18
Southampton 0 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (17), Noble (pen 32)
Shots/On Target: Soton 14/6, West Ham 14/6
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: Soton: Fonte (Y 32), Cork (Y 65)West Ham: Collison (Y 37), Noble (Y 45, Y/R 48)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 7.2, Faye 7.4, Tomkins 7.1, Aldrete 7.2, Collison 6.8, Cole (off 48) 6.8, Anakoglou 7.6, Baldock 7.3, Noble (off 48) 7.0, Macheda 7.4, Diop (on 48) 6.6

Notes:
- Jose Fonte brought Carlton Cole down in the box, leading to Mark Noble's penalty.
- Noble was sent off for a second caution and persistent fouling. We move to a 4-3-2 due to being a man down, Cole coming off for Diop.

Noble Suspended
Mark Noble has been suspended for one match following his sending off against Southampton. He has accepted the warning given for his conduct.

25/11/11 – TV News
West Ham v. Wolves in the Carling Cup quarter-final has been chosen for live television coverage. West Ham will receive around £16,000 in television money for the match.

26/11/11 – npower Championship Match Day #19
West Ham United 2 – 0 Middlesbrough
Goals: West Ham: Cole (5), Piquionne (34)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/7, Boro 7/2
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Lansbury (Y 18), Reid (Y 48) Boro: Thompson (R 22), Letsholonyane (Y 60), McDonald (Y 75)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 7.2, Faubert 7.8, Reid 7.2, Wilson 7.1, Ilunga 8.1, Nolan 6.9, Diop 7.2, Lansbury 6.3, Baldock 6.8, Piquionne 7.6, Cole 8.2

Notes:
Boro's Kevin Thompson was sent off for a vicious tackle on Sam Baldock.

29/11/11 – Awards
Faubert Named
Julien Faubert was selected in the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

30/11/11 – Carling Cup (quarter-final)
West Ham United 0 – 2 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Goals: Wolves: Doyle (37), Kightly (53)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 4/1, Wolves 11/3
Possession: Wolves 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Collins (Y 42) Sears (Y 73) Wolves: Henry (Y 28)
Man of the Match: Kevin Doyle

Form: Green 6.7, Demel 6.5, Faye (off 71) 6.8, Tomkins 6.7, Aldrete 6.9, Noble 6.8, Collison 6.6, Anakoglou 6.8, Baldock 6.4, Piquionne (off 71) 5.7, Cole 5.0, Wilson (on 71) 6.8, Sears (on 71) 6.4

Notes:
- Abdoulaye Faye was taken off injured (71)
- It certainly didn't seem as if we had 49% of the possession. We had to lose eventually and of course it would happen on national television. Beats a loss in the league though.

Injuries Hurt West Ham
West Ham United will be without Frederic Piquionne for 3-4 weeks after twisting his ankle in the loss to Wolves.

Worse news however, as Abdoulaye Faye will miss 2-3 months and will visit a specialist for a hip injury.

Leicester Shock City
Leicester City have shocked Manchester City by winning 3-0 at King Power Stadium in their Carling Cup quarter-final clash.

Elsewhere, Millwall defeated Bolton 2-1 at The Den.

Great dynasty you have here. Keep it up!

You mentioned the depth chart as a new feature in FM12. Is it something you set up yourself, or is it a part of the Ass Man team report? If it's the latter, then that is very useful, but if it's the former, it seems like a lot of work. I do that with a piece of paper next to my computer anyway.

Great dynasty you have here. Keep it up!

You mentioned the depth chart as a new feature in FM12. Is it something you set up yourself, or is it a part of the Ass Man team report? If it's the latter, then that is very useful, but if it's the former, it seems like a lot of work. I do that with a piece of paper next to my computer anyway.

Thanks!

You can get a depth chart based on the opinion of any member of your coaching staff!

01/12/11 – November In Review
Training Report
Papa Bouba Diop (attacking), Henri Lansbury (strength) and Danny Wilson (aerobic) have impressed McDonald and Lamb.

Among the youth players, George Moncur (aerobic), Kenzer Lee (aerobic) and Jake Larkins (GK – handling) have been impressing Drake and Lamb.

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is pleased with Kafka's leading of the team. This has been underlined by the fans' delight at West Ham's convincing 5-0 victory over Barnsley. Despite the positives, West Ham's 2-0 loss to Wolves cannot be ignored and the fans have voiced their discontent. Although a loss of £3.37m was recorded last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovemberStats.png

npower Championship Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovChampStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovemberTable.png

What is "HG" in the player stats graphic above?

What is "HG" in the player stats graphic above?

Homegrown. Meaning they've trained at the club/England at least 3 years between 15-21 (maybe 15-18)

03/12/11 – npower Championship Match Day #20
West Ham United 5 – 0 Doncaster Rovers
Goals: West Ham: Cole (11, 36, 64), Nolan (19), Baldock (90)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 21/9, Donny 4/1
Possession: West Ham 58/42
Cautions: West Ham: Ilunga (Y 58), Donny: Chimbonda (Y 72)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 7.1, Faubert 7.7, Wilson 7.7, Tomkins 8.2, Ilunga 7.6, Noble 7.6, Diop (off 18) 6.8, Lansbury 8.9, Nolan 6.9, Baldock 8.1, Cole 9.4, Collison (on 18) 7.0

Notes:
- Due to the injury to Piquionne and Macheda recovering from food poisoning, we've gone with a 4-3-1-2 in this match, with Kevin Nolan playing AMC as a trequarista.

05/12/11 – FA Cup Draw
Hammers Get Coventry
West Ham United will face Coventry City in the third round of the FA Cup. The match will be played on 7th January, 2012.

06/12/11 – Awards
Duo Named
Henri Lansbury and Carlton Cole were selected in the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Euro 2012 Group Stages Drawn
Group A: Ukraine, Serbia, Norway, Greece
Group B: England, Poland, Bosnia, Croatia
Group C: Russia, Spain, France, Germany – GROUP OF DEATH – wow, this will be a tough one
Group D: Turkey, Sweden, Italy, Holland

Group matches begin on 12/06/12

10/12/11 – npower Championship Match Day #21
Blackpool 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Noble (41)
Shots/On Target: Blackpool 6/2, West Ham 13/3
Possession: Blackpool 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Demel (Y 64), Noble (Y 68)
Man of the Match: Danny Wilson

Form: Green 6.8, Demel (off 79) 7.1, Wilson 7.8, Tomkins 7.4, Aldrete 7.5, Noble 7.3, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 6.9, Nolan 6.9, Baldock 6.7, Cole 6.7

Notes:
- Our 4-3-1-2 formation certainly struggled a bit against Blackpool's 4-5-1. We seemed to match their width pretty well, but for some reason we were outmatched in midfield.
- We may need to look at bringing in another forward on a short-term loan, or find someone that can be molded from a young age to get back to a 4-3-3. I don't believe that Sears or anyone on the reserves will have the quality to play regularly.
- Julien Faubert (on 79) did not play long enough to earn a rating.
- This was our 8th win on the trot in the Championship.

Demel Knock
Guy Demel is expected to miss 5-7 days with a bruised rib. He could be back in time for Burnley, but will probably rest.

17/12/11 – npower Championship Match Day #22
West Ham United 2 – 0 Burnley
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (12, 54)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 25/7, Burnley 8/4
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Green 6.9, Faubert 7.3, Wilson 7.6, Tomkins 9.2, Aldrete 7.9, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou (off 77) 8.5, Baldock 6.8, Cole (off 69) 6.1, Macheda 6.8, Sears (on 69) 6.7

Notes:
- Coming into the match, West Ham is unbeaten in 21, Burnley in 13.
- Burnley had two former Hammers youth products in their starting XI: forward Zavon Hines and midfielder Junior Stanislas.
- James Tomkins' first goal was a crazy pinball affair that was sent in from Anakoglou, bounced off a Burnley player, back to Macheda, who shot and a sliding Tomkins sent it in.
- Carlton Cole came in alone on goal (43) and rocketed a shot off the crossbar. Cole again came in alone from the left (53) and shot wayward. Cole had a free header attempt (59) hit the bottom of the left upright. I subbed Cole out for Sears (69) because Carlton was having a brutal match.
- Danny Wilson has been nothing short of excellent in the absence of Abdoulaye Faye.
- Our best player this year and bargain signing, Dimitris Anakoglou was injured and had to be replaced (77). His replacement, Henri Lansbury was not on long enough to earn a rating.

19/12/11 – Injury Update
Dimitris Anakoglou is fine after picking up a knock against Burnley, he will miss no further time.

Jack Collison has sustained a thigh strain while miskicking a ball in training. He will miss around two weeks while he recovers.

20/12/11 – Awards
Duo Named
Adrian Aldrete and James Tomkins were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

25/12/11 – Injury Update
Frederic Piquionne has resumed full training after recovering from a twisted ankle.

26/12/11 – npower Championship Match Day #23
West Ham United 0 – 1 Leicester City
Goals: Leicester: Nugent (60)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/2, Leicester 8/1
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 8), Leicester: Beckford (Y 13), Fernandes (Y 45), Tunchev (R 66), Pantsil (Y 72)
Man of the Match: Michael Lumb (8.0)

Form: Green 6.7, Demel 6.8, Wilson 7.2, Tomkins 7.0, Aldrete 7.0, Noble 7.1, Diop 6.7, Anakoglou 6.8, Baldock 6.7, Cole (off 70) 6.5, Macheda 6.6, Sears (on 70) 6.5

Notes:
- This marks the halfway point of the npower Championship season.
- Leicester possess an excellent midfield trio of Gelson Fernandes, Andy King and Michael Johnson.
- Former Hammer John Pantsil is Leicester's starting right fullback.
- Leicester City hands West Ham it's first loss of the npower Championship season.
- If the current pace holds, we are on pace for 124 points.

31/12/11 – npower Championship Match Day #24
West Ham United 3 – 0 Coventry City
Goals: West Ham: Noble (6), Tomkins (39), Macheda (60)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 13/9, Coventry 8/1
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 7.2, Wilson 7.3, Tomkins 8.4, Aldrete 7.8, Noble 7.7, Diop 7.2, Anakoglou 8.4, Baldock 6.9, Macheda 7.7, Cole 6.9

01/01/12 – December In Review
Training Report
Henri Lansbury (tactics), Sam Baldock (aerobic) and Sam Cowler (tactics) have been impressing Hendon and Winsper in training, but there have been concerns about Frederic Piquionne (ball control) and Julien Faubert (tactics)

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is pleased with Kafka's leading of the team. The capture of Danny Wilson, who the fans to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Despite the positives, the 2-0 defeat to Wolves is still a sticking negative point. The club lost £2.43m in December, but is still in a secure financial situation.

Messi Wins All
Little Leo Messi has won the Balon d'Or and the World Player of the Year awards.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecPlayerStats.png

npower Championship Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecChampStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecTable.png

02/01/12 – npower Championship Match Day #25
West Ham United 3 – 0 Millwall
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (11), Wilson (63), Macheda (70)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/3, Millwall 4/0
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Macheda (68) Millwall: Stewart (Y 34), N'Guessan (Y 50), Feeney (Y 56)
Man of the Match: Henri Lansbury

Form: Green 6.9, Faubert 7.4, Wilson 8.4, Tomkins (off 55) 7.7, Ilunga 7.3, Nolan 6.9, O'Brien 7.3, Lansbury 9.0, Piquionne 6.9, Sears (off 45) 6.6, Cole 6.9, Reid (on 55) 6.9, Macheda (on 45) 7.2

Notes:
- Freddie Sears came off injured at the half.
- James Tomkins came off injured (55).
- Lansbury came off injured (90+1)

Injury Update
Henri Lansbury is set to miss four months after tearing his calf muscle in the dying minutes in the match against Millwall.

James Tomkins is set to miss up to two months with strained knee ligaments after turning awkwardly during the match with Millwall.

Ouch.

Jack Collison has returned to full training following his thigh strain.

Lansbury Loan Terminated
Due to his long-term injury, the loan of Henri Lansbury has been terminated and the player will return to Arsenal immediately.

In 9 appearances Lansbury posted a 7.71 rating with 6 assists. We thank him for his contribution to West Ham United.

03/01/12 – Awards
Duo Named
Adrian Aldrete and James Tomkins have been selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

06/01/12 – Player Signing
Whelan Joins Hammers
West Ham United have secured the loan signing of Stoke midfielder Glenn Whelan for the remainder of the season.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Whelan.png

07/01/12 – FA Cup (third round)
Coventry City 0 – 6 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (6, 23, 32, 45+2), Collison (41), Piquionne (51)
Shots/On Target: Coventry 13/3, West Ham 17/9
Possession: Coventry 55/45
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 7.4, Demel 8.4, Wilson 8.1, Reid 8.4, Aldrete 8.8, Noble 8.3, Collison 8.9, Anakoglou 7.5, Piquionne 9.4, Baldock 7.2, Cole 9.8

Notes:
- Carlton Cole's 23rd minute goal was his 50th as a West Ham player.
- Cole's 4th goal of the match was his 20th of the season.
- In three matches with Coventry City, West Ham have outscored them 13-1.
- West Ham have been given £67,500 for their victory.

09/01/12 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham will travel to St James' Park on 28th January to face Premier League side Newcastle in the FA Cup fourth round. Newcastle currently sit 13th in the Premier League.

14/01/12 – npower Championship Match Day #26
Crystal Palace 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Palace: Pedroza (29), West Ham: Baldock (37), Wilson (60)
Shots/On Target: Palace 10/3, West Ham 17/4
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: Palace: Pedroza (Y 88) West Ham: Collison (Y 62), Wilson (Y 78)
Man of the Match: Danny Wilson

Form: Green 6.8, Faubert 6.9, Wilson 8.1, Reid 7.0, Aldrete 6.9, Noble 7.1, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 7.1, Baldock 7.2, Macheda 6.9, Cole 6.8

Notes:
- Pedroza's goal was the result of poor communication in defense between Wilson and Reid. Wilson had the ball, Reid collided with him leaving Pedroza there to poach home the goal.
- We are absolutely deadly on near and far post headers from corner set pieces. Faye, Tomkins and Wilson have all had a knack for coming up with the goals in these situations.

18/01/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Spain
2. Holland
3. England
4. Germany
5. Uruguay
6. Italy
7. Greece
8. Argentina
9. Chile
10. Sweden

19/01/12 – Player Movement
Callum McNaughton will join Blue Square Premier side Newport County on loan for three months.

21/01/12 – npower Championship Match Day #27
Brighton & Hove Albion 0 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Noble (3), Reid (19), Wilson (47), Cole (64), Macheda (73)
Shots/On Target: Brighton 6/1, West Ham 15/10
Possession: 50/50
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Green 7.0, Faubert 8.5, Wilson 8.8, Reid 9.1, Aldrete 7.8, Noble 8.8, Collison 7.3, Anakoglou 9.3, Baldock (off 64) 7.0, Macheda 8.3, Cole 9.2, Piquionne (on 64) 6.9

Notes:
- With matches being a week apart lately, it's given me the chance to play a more static starting XI from game to game.
- Mark Noble's goal was a brilliant 30 yard blast into the top right corner of goal. Unstoppable.
- Winston Reid's goal was his first ever for the club. The defender scored on a near post header from a Dimitris Anakoglou corner.
- Yes, Danny Wilson's goal was also off a corner, far post header.
- Sam Baldock had to come off injured (64).
- Anakoglou's third assist of the match was his 20th of the year in all competitions.

Baldock Injury
Sam Baldock will miss up to three weeks after twisting his knee in the victory over Brighton.

22/01/12 – Player News
Burton Sign Brown
West Ham United have agreed to sell fullback Jordan Brown to League 2 side Burton for £8,000. Otto Kafka said he thought the player had no future with the club and was out of contract in June anyway.

24/01/12 – Awards
SIX Hammers Named
Wow! A team record six Hammers have been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven. Congratulations to Adrian Aldrete, Danny Wilson, Winston Reid, Julien Faubert, Dimitris Anakoglou and Carlton Cole. The entire back four!

Demel On Duty
The reason Guy Demel has not featured recently is because he is with the Ivory Coast as they prepare to play in the 2012 African Cup of Nations.

Fulham Bid Rebuffed
West Ham United have rejected a £4.5m + future incentives bid from Fulham for Jack Collison. The offer included £3.9m of the fee spread out over 42 months.

Note: If a club is going to make a serious offer for one of my better players, all of the cash had better be up front.

Carling Cup Final Set
Arsenal will face Wolverhampton in the Carling Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

26/01/12 – Player News
Vose On Loan
Dominic Vose is going out on loan once again, this time to Preston North End until the end of the season. Otto Kafka believes Vose needs more playing time and will not get it in the congested Hammers midfield.

27/01/12 – Contracts
Collison Signs
Jack Collison has been rewarded for his fine play with a new 3 year contract worth an estimated £3m. This is the second time this season West Ham have worked to sign a player long term after a Premier League club has shown interest. Kafka pulled the same move after teams were looking at James Tomkins in the summer.

28/01/12 – FA Cup (fourth round)
Newcastle United 0 – 0 West Ham United
Shots/On Target: Newcastle: 15/4, West Ham 8/1
Possession: Newcastle 53/47
Cautions: Newcastle: S. Taylor (Y 90+1)
Man of the Match: Rob Green

Form: Green 7.3, Faubert 6.8, Wilson 6.9, Reid 6.9, Aldrete 6.1, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 6.9, Piquionne 5.8, Macheda (off 62) 6.0, Cole 6.8, Sears (on 62) 6.4

Notes:
- Former Hammer Demba Ba was in the starting XI for Newcastle.
- Carlton Cole had a goal taken back for a foul pushing Newcastle keeper Tim Krul in the back (4)
- A hard fought draw earns us a replay in a fortnight at The Boleyn Ground. A match like this gives me hope with this squad in the Premier League should we win promotion.

29/01/12 – TV Coverage
The West Ham vs. Newcastle FA Cup fourth round replay has been chosen for television coverage. West Ham will receive around £140,000 in television money for the match.

30/01/12 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham or Newcastle will host either Hull City or Wigan in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

31/01/12 – npower Championship Match Day #28
West Ham United 2 – 0 Birmingham City
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (7), Piquionne (90+2)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 20/7, Brum 7/1
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Aldrete (Y 65), Cole (Y 82)
Man of the Match: Frederic Piquionne

Form: Green 6.9, Faubert 7.0, Wilson 7.6, Reid 7.3, Aldrete 7.9, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.0, Anakoglou (off 45) 6.9, Piquionne 8.2, Macheda 7.5, Cole 6.9, Whelan (on 45) 6.9

Notes:
- Federico Macheda's 7th minute goal was his 10th of the season.
- Dimitris Anakoglou was taken off at the half due to a knock. Glenn Whelan replaced him, making his Hammers debut.

Anakoglou Blow
Dimitris Anakoglou will miss two weeks with a damaged elbow.

Hammers Receive Dosh
West Ham have received £50,000 from Brescia as part of the Fabio Daprela transfer deal. The player has made 15 appearances for the Italian club.

01/02/12 – January In Review
Training Report
Of the senior players, Robert Green (tactics), Danny Wilson (strength) and Oliver Lee (tactics) have been impressing Hendon and Lamb, while Herita Ilunga (aerobic), Joey O'Brien (ball control) and Callum Driver (aerobic) failed to impress.

Among the youth players, Elliot Lee (tactics), Robert Hall (tactics) and Taylor Miles (tactics) have impressed Drake and Gibson.

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is pleased with Otto Kafka's leading of the team. The capture of Danny Wilson has been the highlight while the fans were disappointed with the 1-0 loss to Leicester City. The club recorded a loss of £3.95m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanStats.png

npower Championship Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanChampStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanTable.png

03/02/12 – Injury News
Abdoulaye Faye has returned to full training following his hip injury. The defender had missed two months with the injury.

John Carew has also returned to full training after missing three months with a torn calf muscle.

We are tickled pink.

04/02/12 – npower Championship Match Day #29
Cardiff City 0 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Collison (8), Macheda (41)
Shots/On Target: Cardiff 9/4, West Ham 15/8
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Cardiff: Mcnaughton (Y 75) West Ham: Reid (R 63)
Man of the Match: Guy Demel

Form: Green 7.1, Piquionne (off 63) 6.9, Wilson 7.7, Demel 8.1, Aldrete 7.3, Noble 7.3, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.5, Nolan 7.8, Reid (off 63) 6.9, Macheda 7.8, Cole 6.8, Faubert (on 63) 6.3

Notes:
- Winston Reid was given a straight red for pulling down the last man.

Reid Suspended
West Ham defender Winston Reid has been suspended for one match after being sent off against Cardiff. The player has accepted his warning.

07/02/11 – Awards, News
Demel Named
Guy Demel was named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Baldock Returns
Sam Baldock has returned to full training following two weeks out with a twisted knee.

08/02/12 – FA Cup (fourth round replay)
West Ham United 0 – 1 Newcastle United
Goals: Newcastle: Jonas (89)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 8/4, Newcastle: 14/3
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 34), Faye (Y 42), Ilunga (Y 50) Newcastle: Best (Y 31), Tiote (Y 32), Gai (Y 39), Jara (Y 45), Jonas (Y 72), Kucher (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Jonas

Form: Green 6.8, Demel 6.8, Faye 7.0, Wilson 6.7, Ilunga 6.9, Noble (off 62) 5.9, Collison 6.7, Whelan 6.6, Piquionne 6.9, Macheda (off 62) 6.5, Cole 6.4, Carew (on 62) 6.4, Nolan (on 62) 6.5

Notes:
- Weather for the match is gusty with heavy snow. Fantastic.
- Carlton Cole was in on goal (5) and hit the right upright.
- Demba Ba had a shot go off the right upright as well. (52).
- Hard fought match, can't have too many complaints about the loss. Newcastle were full blooded in their challenges, lucky nobody picked up an injury.

11/02/12 – npower Championship Match Day #30
West Ham United 2 – 1 Watford
Goals: West Ham: O'Brien (17), Macheda (43) Watford: Iwelumo (89)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 26/11, Watford 5/3
Possession: West Ham 58/42
Cautions: West Ham: Reid (Y 45+3), Nolan (Y 62)
Man of the Match: Joey O'Brien

Form: Green 6.8, Faubert 6.9, Reid 7.1, Wilson 7.0, Ilunga 7.2, Nolan 6.9, Diop 7.8, O'Brien 8.3, Sears 6.8, Macheda 7.4, Cole 6.8

Notes:
Joey O'Brien's goal was his first for West Ham, and a terrific 35 yard strike at that.

12/02/12 – Injury News
Dimitris Anakoglou has returned to full training after missing 12 days with a damaged elbow. Anakoglou has been a creative force for the club, with one goal and 20 assists.

14/02/12 – Awards, News, npower Championship Match Day #31
O'Brien Named
Joey O'Brien has been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

Hall On Loan
Youth forward Robert Hall will join League 2 side Shrewsbury Town on a two month long loan.

Ipswich Town 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (46)
Shots/On Target: Ipswich 9/1, West Ham 11/4
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Ipswich: Delaney (Y 83) West Ham: Collison (Y 45+2), Noble (Y 70), Reid (Y 84)
Man of the Match: Winston Reid

Form: Green 6.8, Demel 7.3, Reid 7.5, Wilson 7.1, Aldrete 7.1, Noble 6.9, Collison (off 45) 6.6, Whelan 7.0, Baldock 6.9, Cole 7.2, Carew 6.8, Diop (on 45) 6.9

Notes:
- Jack Collison came off at halftime with a knock.
- Carlton Cole scored 45 seconds into the second half.

15/02/12 – Injury News
James Tomkins has begun full training following his return from strained knee ligaments.

We're getting healthy...

18/02/12 – npower Championship Match Day #32
West Ham United 0 – 1 Derby County
Goals: Derby: Hendrick (26)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/12, Derby 7/2
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Faubert (Y 75)
Man of the Match: Danny Wilson

Form: Green 6.9, Faubert 6.8, Faye 7.0, Wilson 7.6, Ilunga 7.0, Nolan 6.6, Collison 7.0, Anakoglou (off 53) 6.6, Piquionne 6.8, Cole 6.6, Macheda 6.6, Noble (on 53) 6.8

Notes:
- Federico Macheda had a goal disallowed (43) when Carlton Cole was adjudged to have fouled a player in the Derby box.
- Dimitris Anakoglou had to come off injured (53)
- I have no idea how Derby's keeper didn't earn man of the match for his performance. He stopped everything in his path.

FA Cup Surprise
Bolton Wanderers surprised Manchester United, beating them 3-1 at the Reebok in the fifth round of the FA Cup.

23/02/12 – Call-Ups
Seven Hammers have been called up for international matches on 29th February.
Guy Demel (Ivory Coast), Papa Bouba Diop (Senegal), Adrian Aldrete (Mexico), Rob Green (England), John Carew (Norway), Jack Collison (Wales) and Winston Reid (New Zealand).

25/02/12 – npower Championship Match Day #33
West Ham United 2 – 0 Hull City
Goals: West Ham: Noble (46), Cole (50)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 25/4, Hull 8/3
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Piquionne (Y 12), Nolan (Y 43), Macheda (Y 59), Aldrete (Y 76) Hull: Kilbane (Y 70)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 7.3, Faye 7.1, Wilson 7.4, Aldrete 7.2, Nolan 6.9, Collison 7.0, Noble 8.8, Piquionne 6.7, Cole 7.3, Macheda 6.0

Notes:
Mark Noble's goal came just 25 seconds into the second half.

26/02/11 – Carling Cup Final
Arsenal have lost to Wolverhampton in the Carling Cup final 1-0.

West Ham have paid out £10,000 to be shared among the squad on a pro-rata basis after reaching the Carling Cup quarter-final.

29/02/12 – Awards
Guy Demel and Mark Noble were selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

01/03/12 – February In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Carlton Cole (aerobic), Danny Wilson (tactics) and Peter Kurucz (GK – handling) have impressed Margetson and Winsper.

Board Confidence
The club is pleased with Kafka's leading of the team. The capture of Federico Macheda has been particularly pleasing, while the club's fans were disappointed with the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in the FA Cup. The club lost £2.24m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FebPlayerStats.png

npower Championship Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FebChampStats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FebTable.png

03/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #34
Bristol City 2 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Bristol: Pitman (pen 49), Clarkson (90+3) West Ham: Piquionne (5), Carew (20)
Shots/On Target: Bristol 9/5, West Ham 21/8
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: Bristol: Addo (Y 82) West Ham: Faye (Y 71), Cole (Y 72), Anakoglou (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Jack Collison

Forms: Green 6.9, Demel 7.0, Faye 6.2, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 7.2, Noble 6.7, Collison 7.7, Anakoglou 7.0, Piquionne 7.3, Cole 6.8, Carew 7.3

Notes:
- After Carew's goal “West Ham look good for promotion from this performance.” Not any of the other performances were we've dropped 10 points all year though?
- Mark Noble conceded a penalty when he brought Eric Addo down inside the box.
- Devastating equalizer from Clarkson in the dying throes of this match.

06/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #35
Peterborough 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Macheda (45)
Shots/On Target: Posh 10/5, West Ham 8/1
Possession: Posh 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Nolan (Y 28), Faubert (R 35)
Man of the Match: Herita Ilunga

Form: Green 7.5, Cole 6.2 (off 35) Faye 7.0, Wilson 7.4, Ilunga 7.6, Nolan 6.9, Diop 6.9, Whelan 6.9, Sears 6.9, Faubert (off 35) 6.3, Macheda 7.3, Demel (on 35) 6.8

Notes:
- Julien Faubert was given a straight red for pulling back the last man. (35)
- A very good win down a man for over half the match. Grinding out a result after that hard luck draw was just the tonic we needed.

Faubert Suspended
Julien Faubert has earned a one match ban after his sending off against Peterborough. He has accepted his warning

Playoff Spot Clinched
West Ham have secured themselves a spot in the npower Championship playoffs with their victory. This means if the club were to lose their remaining 11 games, they could finish no worse than 6th.

10/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #36
West Ham United 2 – 0 Reading
Goals: West Ham: Collison (17), Faye (67)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/8, Reading 6/1
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Wilson (Y 88), Reading: Mellis (Y 12)
Man of the Match: Abdoulaye Faye

Form: Green 6.9, Reid 6.9, Faye 8.3, Wilson 7.2, Aldrete 7.4, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.5, Anakoglou 7.3, Piquionne 7.4, Cole 6.8, Macheda 6.9

Macheda Knock
Federico Macheda has sustained a damaged elbow after following awkwardly during the match with Reading and will miss up to two weeks.

13/03/12 – Youth Signed
West Ham have signed a number of youth team candidates, including Nick Stacey, Gary Donegan, Nicky Powell, Hayri Koybasi, Peter Bodie, Miguel Martin, Phil Goodacre, George Lansbury, Steve Holland, James Simpson, Daryl Hornby, Ian Moore and Craig Healy.

Nick Stacey is being considered one of the better players to come through the system in years, but is a right winger. We will work to turn him into a central midfielder. The 15 year old has 4* potential and bags of physical skills, but is very, very weak mentally at the moment.

14/03/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Spain
2. Holland
3. England
4. Germany
5. Uruguay
6. Italy
7. Greece
8. Argentina
9. Sweden
10. Chile

17/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #37
Barnsley 0 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Faye (11), Cole (19, 67, 86), Collison (42)
Shots/On Target: Barnsley 3/1, West Ham 17/11
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Barnsley: Magnusson (Y 17, Y/R 31) West Ham: Collison (Y 38), Demel (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Green 6.9, Demel 8.4, Faye 8.7, Tomkins 8.7, Aldrete 8.5, Noble 8.4, Collison 8.3, Anakoglou 9.1, Piquionne 7.5, Cole 9.6, Carew 7.9

Notes:
Barnsley's Peter Magnusson was sent off for his second caution (31)
Carlton Cole achieved his second hat trick of the year. It could have been his fourth, as he missed penalties in two separate games this year while sitting on a hat trick.

HAMMERS WIN PROMOTION
West Ham United have won promotion to the Premier League. The fans of the club are overjoyed with Otto Kafka and his players as the club have secured promotion from the npower Championship. A spokesman for the official supporters' club stated that Kafka was the sort of manager that thrived on the pressure that chasing success entails.

In a statement released to the press after the match, the West Ham board revealed that they always expected the team to gain promotion and is pleased that the moment has finally arrived. The board have stated that they believed Kafka would deliver and were pleased that they were not let down.

Swindon manager and West Ham favorite Paolo Di Canio has stated his own pleasure at witnessing the Hammer secure their promotion. Di Canio believes that nothing can faze the Hammers boss and is sure the club is now in safe hands.

19/03/12 - News
Drake and Hampson Stay
After being offered contracts from Bolton and Everton respectively, West Ham have re-signed youth coach Peter Drake and scout Jimmy Hampson through 30 June, 2015.

Quintet Named
James Tomkins, Abdoulaye Faye, Guy Demel, Dimitris Anakoglou and Carlton Cole have been selected to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

20/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #38
West Ham United 1 – 1 Portsmouth
Goals: West Ham: Nolan (60) Portsmouth: Bozovic (90+2)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/4, Portsmouth 4/1
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: Portsmouth: De la Cruz (Y 22)
Man of the Match: Vladimir Bozovic (7.5)

Form: Boffin 6.8, Faubert 7.0, Faye 6.7, Wilson 6.6, Ilunga 6.8, Nolan 7.2, Diop 7.0, Whelan 6.8, Baldock 6.8, Cole 6.6, Sears 6.4

Notes:
Another late, late goal to drop two points. Mental fatigue? This certainly was not our first choice team, but still should have won.

HAMMERS WIN NPOWER CHAMPIONSHIP
Three days after securing automatic promotion, West Ham United have won the npower Championship with eight matches remaining on the schedule. This is West Ham's first silverware since 1981.

More of the same statements as there was on winning promotion from the board, fans and Paolo Di Canio.

A bigger challenge lies ahead.

24/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #39
Leeds United 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Leeds: Becchio (11) West Ham: Anakoglou (56)
Shots/On Target: Leeds 9/3, West Ham 16/8
Possession: Leeds 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Collison (Y 34)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Boffin 6.8, Demel 6.9, Faye 7.1, Tomkins 6.8, Aldrete 7.0, Noble 6.7, Collison 6.5, Anakoglou 7.6, Piquionne 6.8, Cole 5.9, Carew 6.7

Notes:
- Bit of a post-championship hangover?

31/03/12 – npower Championship Match Day #40, Contract Issues
West Ham United 3 – 0 Nottingham Forest
Goals: West Ham: Faye (18, 28), Cole (53)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/9, Forest 4/2
Possession: West Ham 58/42
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 32), Faye (Y 79), Collison (Y 80) Forest: Greening (Y 45+2)
Man of the Match: Abdoulaye Faye

Form: Boffin 6.9, Demel 7.4, Faye 9.1, Tomkins 7.6, Aldrete 7.5, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.1, Anakoglou 9.0, Cole 7.7, Piquionne 6.9, Baldock 6.9

Contracts Expiring – Decisions to Make
We have a number of first team contracts expiring on 30th June. Most of these players are willing to re-sign right now, however, they want substantial pay raises in addition to salary hikes for promotion. I am afraid I am going to have to let most of these players go and it's going to be a bit of a building process to start life in the Premier League once again. I will look at maybe trying to keep some of these players as we get closer to the end of June, but it most likely will not happen.

I have decided that we will not be manually scouting for players. Instead I will rely on my scouts and staff for finding players to give the game a more realistic feel. The only players I will scout out myself are those that are loan or transfer listed and those that are out of contract.

The following first team members have their contracts expiring on 30th June:
John Carew, Robert Green, Julien Faubert, Abdoulaye Faye, Papa Bouba Diop, Ruud Boffin and Joey O'Brien.

Five of those players have played important roles for the club. It's looking likely I will need to find two forwards, three defenders, two keepers, two midfielders and two fullbacks in the summer. This is counting those players who will depart because of loans ending: Danny Wilson, Federico Macheda and Glenn Whelan.

We are going to have a VERY interesting summer period at West Ham.

01/04/12 – March In Review
Training Report
Among the senior plaayers, Mark Noble (tactics), Demitris Anakoglou (tactics) and Adrian Aldrete (aerobic) have been impressing Hendon and Lamb on the training field, while Rob Green (aerobic) has disappointed.

Board Confidence
The board is very pleased with Kafka's overall leadership of the team. This has been underlined by the fact that they believe his leadership has led to some good performances from Abdoulaye Faye. The club lost £3.21m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchPlayerStats.png

npower Championship Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Marchnpowerstats.png

npower Championship Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchTable.png

07/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #41
Middlesbrough 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Boro: Emnes (31) West Ham: Carew (35), Anakoglou (68)
Shots/On Target: Boro 9/5, West Ham 17/6
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Boro: Thomson (Y 67), Williams (Y 74) West Ham: Demel (Y 50)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Boffin 6.9, Demel 7.2, Faye 7.4, Tomkins 6.9, Aldrete 6.9, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 7.6, Piquionne 6.8, Piquionne 6.8, Cole 6.9, Carew 7.2

Notes:
Dimitris Ankoglou has been named man of the match 7 times this season.

Taylor Released
We have released left midfielder Matty Taylor by mutual termination, paying a fee of £900,000. Taylor was on a £25,000 per week salary and repeated attempts to sell the player failed.

Hammers Set Record
West Ham United have set a new record for the number of points accrued in a season in the npower Championship, with their total currently sitting at 107. The previous record was Reading's 106.

09/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #42
West Ham United 4 – 1 Southampton
Goals: West Ham: Whelan (11), Baldock (45), Macheda (pen 48, 82) Soton: Mputu (8)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/4, Soton 7/1
Possession: West Ham 63/37
Cautions: Soton: Gentsoglou (Y 52)
Man of the Match: Federico Macheda

Form: Boffin 7.2, Faubert 7.5, Wilson 8.1, Tomkins 7.3, Ilunga 7.1, Nolan 6.9, Diop 7.1, Whelan 7.8, Baldock 8.2, Macheda 8.6, Sears 6.9

Notes:
- Whelan's goal was his first as a Hammer.

14/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #43
Doncaster Rovers 1 – 4 West Ham United
Goals: Donny: Sharp (45) West Ham: Baldock (34, 79), Sears (38), Noble (40)
Shots/On Target: Donny 12/5, West Ham 16/6
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Forms: Boffin 7.4, Demel 7.0, Wilson 7.4, Tomkins 7.7, Aldrete 7.1, Noble 8.0, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 9.0, Baldock 8.8, Cole 6.8, Sears 8.3

Notes:
- Danny Wilson had a goal from a corner disallowed after James Tomkins was called for a push.
- Freddie Sears' goal was his first of the season.
- Donny's Billy Sharp had a goal ruled offside (55)
- This was Dimitris Anakoglou's 8th man of the match award.

Playoffs Update
Bristol City and Reading have secured playoff spots.

15/04/12 – FA Cup
Liverpool was face-off against rival Everton in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

16/04/12 – Awards
Anakoglou Honored
Once again Dimitris Anakoglou has been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

17/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #44
West Ham United 1 – 0 Blackpool
Goals: West Ham: Cole (89)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 19/5, Blackpool 6/1
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Ilunga (Y 15), Reid (Y 44) Blackpool: Bjarnason (Y 72)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Boffin 6.9, Reid 7.1, Wilson 7.2, Tomkins (off 58) 6.8, Ilunga 6.9, Nolan 6.8, Diop 7.1, Whelan 6.9, Baldock 6.7, Cole 8.3, Sears 6.8

Notes:
James Tomkins had to come off injured (58)

Coventry Down
Coventry City have been relegated to League 1.

Tomkins Injured
James Tomkins sustained a sprained ankle and will miss the rest of the season and be out for 5-6 weeks.

19/04/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Spain
2. England
3. Holland
4. Italy
5. Uruguay
6. Germany
7. Greece
8. Argentina
9. Sweden
10. Chile

21/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #45
Burnley 2 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Burnley: Bartley (59), Treacy (76) West Ham: Baldock (17), Wilson (64)
Shots/On Target: Burnley 22/9, West Ham 10/5
Possession: Burnley 54/46
Cautions: Burnley: Tierney (Y 28), Eckersley (Y 63), Mee (Y 83), West Ham: Noble (Y 9), Anakoglou (Y 57), Piquionne (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Danny Wilson

Form: Boffin 7.8, Demel 6.9, Wilson 8.2, Faye 6.7, Aldrete 6.7, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.4, Anakoglou 7.0, Baldock (off 45+2) 7.2, Cole 6.9, Sears 6.5, Piquionne (on 45+2) 6.3

Notes:
- Sam Baldock was taken off injured (45+2)

Promotion, Playoffs, Relegation
Reading have clinched second place in the npower Championship and have earned automatic promotion along with West Ham to the Premier League.

Nottingham Forest have secured a playoff spot.

Leeds United have been relegated to League 1.

Baldock Inury
Sam Baldock will miss 5-8 days after stubbing his toe. Seriously?

25/04/12 -Awards
Boffin Named
Ruud Boffin has been named to the npower Championship Team of the Week first eleven.

29/04/12 – npower Championship Match Day #46 – The Final Day
Leicester City 1 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: Leicester: John (63)
Shots/On Target: Leicester 9/2, West Ham 16/5
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Demel (Y 56), Collison (R 57)
Man of the Match: Joshua John (7.8)

Form: Boffin 6.7, Demel 6.0, Wilson 7.2, Faye 7.0, Aldrete 6.8, Baldock (off 61) 6.6, Noble 6.8, Anakoglou 6.9, Cole 5.6, Collison (off 61) 6.8, Sears 6.8, Nolan (on 61) 6.7

Notes:
Hats off to Leicester City. They beat us twice this year, the only club we didn't earn a single point off of.

Collison Suspended
Jack Collison has been suspended for one match and has been warned by the team for his sending off.

Pompey In Playoffs
Portsmouth have secured the final playoff spot.

Playoff matches will be:
3. Leicester City v. 6. Portsmouth
4. Bristol City v. 5. Nottingham Forest

Barnsley Down
Barnsley have been relegated to League 1.

Cash Money
West Ham have been awarded £50,000 for their final position in the league.

01/05/12 – April In Review
Training Report
Mark Noble (tactics), Danny Wilson (tactics) and Sam Cowler (aerobics) have impressed Hendon and Lamb.

Board Confidence
The board is very pleased with the overall leadership from Otto Kafka. The fans believe the signing of Glenn Whelan to be extremely good and are very pleased. The club lost £5.21m last month.

The club finishes the season with a balance of £84,210. Barely in the black. Through the course of the season, the club lost £21.1M

West Ham Player Stats – Final
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalStats.png

npower Championship Player Stats – Final
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalChampStats.png

npower Championship Table - Final
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalTable.png

05/05/12 – FA Cup Final
Liverpool win the FA Cup final. After a 0-0 deadlock through 120 minutes, the match went to penalties where Leighton Baines and Tim Cahill missed for Everton. Liverpool made all four of their penalties, with Jamie Carragher netting the winner.

06/05/12 – News
Jack Collison has been handed a further two match ban for his sending off against Leicester and will be ineligible for the club's first three Premier League Matches.

Yearly Training
The following players have trained well and shown signs of progression over the past season:
Sam Baldock, Dimitris Anakoglou and Federico Macheda have improved significantly as footballers.
Danny Wilson has improved remarkably.

Squad End of Season Break
The West Ham squad are now on vacation and will return for training on 25th June 2012.

07/05/12 – Leicester, Bristol City to Playoff Final
Dammit. Leicester City have advanced to the playoff final by defeating Portsmouth 5-2 on aggregate after a stunning 4-0 victory in the return leg at the Walkers Stadium.

I feel like Leicester being in the Prem would be six points I would lose.

Bristol City advanced to the final to face Leicester after a 4-1 victory over Nottingham Forest, giving them a 7-3 aggregate victory.

10/05/12 – News
Hands Off Baldock
Reading have been told that Sam Baldock is not for sale as both clubs try to gear up for life in the Premier League.

17/05/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Spain.
2. England
3. Holland
4. Italy
5. Uruguay
6. Greece
7. Germany
8. Argentina
9. Sweden
10.Chile

19/05/12 – Playoff Final
Leicester City have won promotion to the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Bristol City.

I am very, very disappointed in Bristol City.

Squad Payout
We have paid out £1.5m to be shared among the squad on a pro-rata basis for winning the npower Championship.

We are now financially in the red.

I smell a very small transfer budget.

20/05/12 – npower Championship Awards
Player of the Year: Dimitris Anakoglou, West Ham United – 33 appearances, 3 goals, 28 assists, 7.72 rating.
Young Player of the Year: John Bostock, Millwall, 30 appearances, 8 goals, 7.08 rating
Manager of the Year: Brian McDermott, Reading
Top Goalscorer: Billy Sharp, Doncaster Rovers 29 goals
Team of the Year:
GK: Rob Green – West Ham
DL: Michael Lumb – Leicester City
DC: Curtis Davies – Birmingham City
DC: Bongani Khumalo – Reading
DR: John Pantsil – Leicester City
ML: Paul Gallagher – Leicester City
MC: Fernando Belluschi – Birmingham City
MC: Dimitris Anakoglou – West Ham
MR: Robert Snodgrass – Leeds United
ST: Billy Sharp – Doncaster Rovers
ST: Carlton Cole – West Ham

24/05/12 – First Cap!
Dimitris Anakoglou has earned his first senior cap with Greece.

We're very excited at West Ham and taking a lot of the credit for this youngster's development.

27/05/12 – On A Shoestring
We will be operating on a shoestring budget in our first season back in the Premier League. The board has given us a payroll budget of £575,000 per week and a transfer budget of just £1.8m.

Because of this, I'll be instituting a weekly wage cap of £30,000 per week on any player coming in. I will not be re-signing any of the players who's contracts are up on 30th June, meaning we will be scouring free transfers on 1st July. We will also be looking at those available for loan.

The next season or two are going to be about consolidation and turning at profit while staying the Premier League. We'll be grinding it out until we can get comfortable.

28/05/12 – Daprela Fee
West Ham have been paid £50,000 by Brescia as Fabio Daprela has now appeared in 20 league matches for the Italian side.

31/05/12 – Loan Ends
Pablo Barrera's loan with Zaragoza has ended. The winger is on £35,000 per week and will be offered out to clubs for £1m as there is no place for him in the team.

02/06/12 – Boffin Ups
Due to the tight salary considerations at West Ham, and his strong performances through the last month of the season, we have re-signed Ruud Boffin to a 4 year, £1.5m deal.

Three Called
Robert Green (England), Dimitris Anakoglou (Greece) and John Carew (Norway) have all been recalled to participate in Euro 2012.

04/06/12 – Barrera Out
Pablo Barrera will join Wolfsburg on 1st July 2012 for £1m.



Note: I have made a couple of player signings. Two will be revealed on 09/06/12 and one will be revealed on 01/07/12.

woot !

09/06/12 – Transfer Window Open
The English transfer window has opened and West Ham have already started in.

Youngster Atkin Signs
West Ham have snapped up young striker James Atkin from Wycombe on a free transfer. Because the player was in Wycombe's youth system, West Ham have paid a compensation fee of £120,000. Atkin has said the opportunity to move to the newly promoted club was too good to turn down and he was looking forward to the new challenge.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Atkin.png

Hammers Add Friedrich
West Ham United have snapped up German centre-back Arne Friedrich on a free transfer. The ex-German international had been without a club for a while and is said to have welcomed the opportunity to get back into football.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Friedrich.png

Euro 2012
Group B
England 0 – 1 Poland

Not a good start for the Englishmen.

10/06/12 – News, Euro 2012
Spence Signs New Deal
West Ham youngster Jordan Spence has signed a long term contract that will keep him with the club through 2016. The fullback is expected to be Guy Demel's cover on the right side.

Group B
Croatia 0 – 0 Bosnia & Herz.

Group D
Sweden 2 – 1 Turkey
Holland 0 – 1 Italy

11/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group A
Serbia 1 – 2 Ukraine
Greece 2 – 0 Norway

12/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group C
France 2 – 1 Germany
Spain 3 – 2 Russia

13/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group B
Bosnia & Herz 0 – 4 England

14/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group B
Poland 3 – 0 Croatia

15/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group D
Turkey 2 – 0 Holland
Italy 2 – 1 Sweden

16/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group A
Ukraine 3 – 1 Greece
Norway 2 – 1 Serbia

17/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group C
Russia 1 – 1 France
Germany 4 – 3 Spain

18/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group B
England 3 – 2 Croatia
Poland 2 – 3 Bosnia & Herz.

Poland and England qualify for the next round, Poland winning the group.

19/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group A
Greece 4 – 1 Serbia
Norway 1 – 1 Ukraine

Ukraine and Greece qualify for the next round, Ukraine winning the group.

20/06/12 – Euro 2012
Group C
France 2 – 1 Spain
Germany 2 – 2 Russia

France and Germany qualify for the next round, France winning the group.

Group D
Sweden 1 – 2 Holland
Turkey 0 – 5 Italy

Italy and Turkey qualify for the next round, Italy winning the group.

21/06/12 – Losses Announced, Euro 2012
West Ham have released a statement announcing losses of £25m for the last financial year, a staggering 58% of turnover. The club board has indicated that the losses might result in smaller budgets in the coming season. West Ham's revenue for the financial year amounted to £43m. Details of the accounts will be presented to shareholders at the AGM next month.

Euro 2012
England 5 – 3

England advance to the semi-final.

22/06/12 – Euro 2012
Greece 0 – 0 Poland

Greece advances by winning a penalty kicks shootout 4-2.

23/06/12 – Euro 2012, Review
France 2 – 1 Turkey

France advance to the semi-final.

Premier League and npower Championship Review
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Summary.png

24/06/12 – West Ham News, Euro 2012
Player of the Year
West Ham's supporter spokesperson, Craig Hart, has announced that Abdoulaye Faye has been voted West Ham's Player of the Year by the fans.

Best Eleven
The West Ham best eleven has been named and is as follows:
Green, Aldrete, Wilson, Faye, Demel, Collison, Noble, Anakoglou, Cole, Macheda, Carew

Contract Changes
James Tomkins, Jack Collison and Adrian Aldrete have had their salaries increased due to the club winning promotion to the Premier League.

TV Rights
West Ham will receive £40m for Premier League television rights over the upcoming season.

Players Promoted
Jake Larkins, Jake Young, Declan Hunt, Paul McCallum, George Moncur, Robert Hall and Dominic Vose have been promoted to the Reserves as they are now too old to play for the U18s next season.

Euro 2012
Germany 2 – 2 Italy

Germany advance to the semi-final after winning the penalty kicks shootout 5-4.

25/06/12 – Title Odds
Manchester City have been made 7-4 favorites to win the Premier League this season.

The rest of the main contenders are priced at:
Manchester United 5-2
Liverpool 3-1
Chelsea 6-1
Arsenal 8-1
Tottenham Hotspur 14-1
West Ham United 2000-1

27/06/12 – Euro 2012
Euro 2012 Semi-Finals
England 2 – 3 Germany (e)

Greece 0 – 2 France

Germany will meet France in the Euro 2012 final. France bested Germany on 12/06/12 in their opening group match.

30/12/06 – Contracts
Danny Wilson, Federico Macheda and Glenn Whelan have returned to their clubs as their loans have ended.

Otto Kafka has accepted a new four year contract from West Ham worth £28,500 per week.

Robert Green, John Carew, Abdoulaye Faye, Julien Faubert, Papa Bouba Diop, Joey O'Brien have all been released after their contracts expired.

01/07/12 – News
Sponsorship
West Ham announce a new additional kit sponsor. The two year deal is estimated to be worth £230,000 per year.

Hammers Sign Gibson
West Ham have snapped up former Manchester United central midfielder Darron Gibson on a free transfer.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Gibson.png

Euro 2012 Final
Germany 1 – 3 France

France are the Euro 2012 Champions

Franck Ribery has been named best player.

Wayne Rooney wins the Golden Boot.

The Euro Dream Team is as follows:
GK: Lloris (FRA)
DL: A. Cole (ENG)
DC: Rami (FRA)
DC: Bocchetti (ITA)
DR: Sagna (FRA)
MF: Menez (FRA)
MF: Ribery (FRA)
MF: Rossi (ITA)
MF: Cabaye (FRA)
ST: Rooney (ENG)
ST: Yarmolenko (UKR)

Season Ticket Update
West Ham United have announced the latest figures from ongoing season ticket sales. As of this update, the club has sold 10,050 tickets. The board is looking to sell another 15,600 to bring the total to 25,700.

Noble and Cole Sign New Deals
Mark Noble has committed his future to West Ham, penning a five year deal. Noble stated that his love for the club was the main reason behind singing the new deal.

Carlton Cole has penned a new two year deal, also stating his love for the club was the main reason for staying on board.

And now the search for free transfers begins...

09/07/12 – Player News
Stockdale Joins Hammers
West Ham United have successfully negotiated terms with keeper David Stockdale and have signed the player from Fulham for £775,000. Stockdale revealed that he was very eager to rise to the challenge of moving to such an illustrious club.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Stockdale.png

10/07/12 – Player News
De Laet Joins On Free
Ritchie De Laet is pleased to have agreed terms with West Ham. The defender spent last season on loan from Manchester United at Norwich City.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/deLaet.png

11/07/12 – Player News
Acquafresca In
West Ham have signed former Italy U21 international Robert Acquafresca from Genoa for £1.7m. Acquafresca made only 10 appearances for Genoa since joining for £13.25m, costing the club a hefty £1.2m per match.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Acquafresca.png

12/07/12 – Player News
McNaughton Loaned
West Ham's Callum Mcnaughton has agreed to join Mansfield on loan for six months.

13/07/12 – News
Wenger Resigns
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has resigned from his position after many years on the job. The board were quick to pay tribute to their long-serving boss, declaring that while they were sad to see Arsene leave, his announcement had given everyone an opportunity to celebrate one of the club's most faithful servants. Wenger's depature from Emirates Stadium comes as he embarks on a new adventure with BARCELONA, leaving Arsenal with an important decision to make.

15/07/12 – News
Season Ticket Update
West Ham United have announced the latest figures from ongoing season ticket sales. As of this update, the club has solid 15,802 and the board is hoping to sell another 9,900 to bring the total to 25,700.

17/07/12 – News
Reid Up
Winston Reid has been recalled by New Zealand U23 manager Mark Jones for the Olympic Games. The match take place between 26th July and 11th August.

Tafer In
Olympique Lyonnais' Yannis Tafer has negotiated terms with West Ham and will join the English club on a season long loan.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Tafer-1.png

19/07/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Italy
2. England
3. Germany
4. France
5. Spain
6. Uruguay
7. Holland
8. Paraguay
9. Argentina
10. Greece

20/07/12 – News
Arsenal Hire...
Mick McCarthy from Wolves.

Wow. Really? Mick McCarthy? Seriously?

Friendly Coverage
The West Ham vs Manchester United friendly match on 26th July has been chosen for live television coverage. West Ham will receive around £65,000 in television money for the match.

Friendly
Toquay United 0 – 3 West Ham United

23/07/12 – Friendly
Ayr United 0 – 2 West Ham United

26/07/12 – Friendly
West Ham United 3 – 1 Manchester United

We all know this won't happen again

28/07/12 – Friendly, Injury
CD Estudiantes Tecos 1 – 0 West Ham United

Collison Injured
Jack Collison sustained a sprained ankle against Tecos and is expected to miss 5-6 weeks with the injury.

30/07/12 – News
Nolan Named
Kevin Nolan will once again wear the arm band for West Ham this season, with Jack Collison as vice-captain.

01/08/12 – News, Friendly
New Deal
West Ham have announced a new five years sponsorship deal worth £240k per year.

Friendly
West Ham United 1 – 0 Atletico Madric

Noble Knock
Mark Noble will miss 9-12 days after sustaining a gashed leg from a strong challenge during the match with Atletico Madrid.

05/08/12 – News
Season Ticket Update
West Ham United have announced the latest figures from on going season ticket sales. As of this update, the club has sold 23,795 and is looking to sell just shy of another 2,000 to bring the total to 25,700 total.

07/08/12 – News
Vose Joins Brentford
Midfielder Dominic Vose has joined Brentford on a 5 month long loan.

15/08/12 – Carling Cup Draw
Brilliant. West Ham will host Coventry City in the Carling Cup second round.

In three matches last season, we outscored Coventry 13-1.

16/08/12 – Injury
Tafer Knock
Yannis Tafer suffered a damaged foot in training after jumping for a header and will miss 2-3 weeks.

17/08/12 – Depth Chart
The 2012/13 West Ham United depth chart.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Depth.png

Our first season back... begins now. We are predicted to finish in 15th, which I would happily take.

18/08/12 – Premier League Match Day #1
West Brom-Albion 0 – 0 West Ham United
Shots/On Target: West Brom 17/4, West Ham 12/3
Possession: West Brom 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 59)
Man of the Match: David Stockdale

Form: Stockdale 8.3, Demel (off 75) 6.9, Friedrich 7.3, Tomkins 8.0, Aldrete 7.0, Noble (off 65) 6.0, Gibson 6.8, Anakoglou 7.1, Piquionne (off 65) 6.7, Acquafresca 6.6, Cole 6.9, Nolan (on 65) 6.7, Baldock (on 65) 6.5

Notes:
- Early on the central defenders are being pulled wide by WBA.
- Mark Noble and Darron Gibson love to shoot from distance.
- Robert Acquafresca had a goal deemed offside (it was) on 8 minutes.
- Anakoglou's corner taking is excellent. We're going to need to get goals off of them like we did in the Championship.
- The entire team started to fatigue badly toward the last 20 minutes of the match, West Brom spent the majority of this time in our third and on the attack.
- David Stockdale was immense. And nothing short of it.
- Winston Reid came on for Guy Demel and did not play long enough to garner a rating.

25/08/12 – Premier League Match Day #2
West Ham United 1 – 3 Fulham
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (63) Fulham: Capoue (8), Ruiz (72), Hangeland (82)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/6, Fulham 13/5
Possession: Fulham 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Demel (Y 46), Cole (Y 68) Fulham: Inkoom (Y 62)
Man of the Match: Bryan Ruiz

Form: Stockdale 6.6, Demel (off 66) 6.8, Friedrich 6.7, Tomkins 7.9, Aldrete 6.0, Noble (off 66) 6.7, Gibson 6.7, Anakoglou 6.9, Acquafresca (off 66) 5.8, Cole 5.6, Piquionne 6.7, De Laet (on 66) 6.3, Nolan (on 66) 6.4, Baldock (on 66) 6.7

Notes:
- Fulham bought a terrific central midfield duo over the summer, Etienne Capoue (£13.5m) and Radja Nainggolan (£7m).
- Frederic Piquionne was called offside after scoring a goal (38), he was off by about a yard.
- Set pieces. James Tomkins' goal came from a near post header on an Anakoglou corner.
- Bryan Ruiz scored his goal when Adrian Aldrete missed a tackle, allowing the right midfielder to make a free run into the box. Stockdale never had a chance.
- Our throw-in takers are absolutely horrid in the attacking third, especially when throwing toward the box, almost always directly to an opponent.

28/08/12 – Awards
Tomkins Named
James Tomkins was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

29/08/12 – Carling Cup (second round)
West Ham United 3 – 0 Coventry City
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (19, 32), Nolan (39)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 26/7, Coventry 3/0
Possession: West Ham 67/33
Cautions: Coventry: Clingan (Y 18)
Man of the Match: Kevin Nolan

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 8.1, Reid 7.4, De Laet 7.6, Ilunga 7.4, Nolan 8.2, Gibson 7.0, Anakoglou 7.4, Baldock 7.7, Acquafresca 7.7, Sears 6.9

Notes:
- Robert Acquafresca get his first goal for the club, playing poacher after a Nolan effort pinballed around the box.
- After he struggled in the first two matches, I figured I would start Acquafresca in this match to boost his confidence on life in England.
- James McPake pulled Freddie Sears down inside the box on 38', Acquafresca's penalty attempt was saved. Something about Hammers players taking penalties while sitting on a hat trick. Cole was 0/2 on penalties in similar situations last season.
- Again after a hat trick, Acquafresca had a goal pulled back for being offside (57).

01/09/12 – August In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Jordan Spence (strength) and Ritchie De Laet (strength) have been impressing Winsper and Lamb on the training field. There have been concerns about the progress of Guy Demel (aerobic) and Jack Collison (aerobic). To be fair, Collison is just now coming back into training after his injury.

There have been no real training problems among the youth players lately and indeed Phil Goodacre (tactics), Daryl Hornby (tactics) and James Atkin (tactics) have been impressing Hendon and Gibson in recent weeks with their progress.

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is pleased with Otto Kafka's leading of the team. This has been underlined by the fans' joy at West Ham's convincing 3-0 Carling Cup victory over Coventry City. However, they are slightly disappointed with the departure of Pablo Barrera. The club is currently in a financially secure position overall and made a profit of £699K last month.

Clubs have only played two match so far, so I'll refrain from posting any stats / picture of the table until we get to the September review.

We are sitting 16th with 1 point.

01/09/12 – Premier League Match Day #3, news
Stoke City 1 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Stoke: Crouch (11)West Ham: Piquionne (5, 48), Cole (53)
Shots/On Target: Stoke 9/4, West Ham 9/5
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Stoke: Hlousek (Y 45), Wilkinson (Y 78) West Ham: Aldrete (Y 58), Piquionne (Y 58), Anakoglou (Y 90+1)
Man of the Match: Frederic Piquionne

Form: Stockdale 7.0, Demel (off 68) 7.1, Friedrich 7.2, Tomkins 7.3, Aldrete 7.3, Noble (off 68) 6.9, Gibson 7.6, Anakoglou 7.6, Piquionne 8.8, Cole 7.4, Acquafresca 6.9

Notes:
- Excellent goal from Fred Piquionne. Demel slid a pass into the box that was intercepted, but Piquionne fought for it, won the ball and slotted it home. He had gone an incredible 16 hours without a goal.
- The second goal was as good as the first. Great movement, Anakoglou found Piquionne with a slide rule pass into the box and that was that.
- Carlton Cole had been playing without confidence. He latched onto the end of Gibson through ball and got some of that confidence back.
- Momentum is everything. Two wins on the trot has got to build some confidence for this side.

Carling Cup Draw
West Ham will travel to Molineux on 25th September to face Wolves in the third round of the Carling Cup. Wolves won the competition last year after beating Arsenal and along the way beat West Ham 2-0.

Tafer Back
Yannis Tafer has returned to training after being out of contention for two weeks with a damaged foot.

02/09/12 – Internationals
Five players have been recalled for international duty. The matches take place 8th and 12th September.
Mexico: Adrian Aldrete
Belgium: Ritchie De Laet
Rep. Of Ireland: Darron Gibson
Wales: Jack Collison
New Zealand: Winston Reid

Drake Leaves
Everton have appointed West Ham's Peter Drake as a coach. West Ham will receive a compensation fee of £375,000 as part of the deal.

04/09/12 – Awards
One Named
Frederic Piquionne was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

14/09/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Italy
2. England
3. France
4. Germany
5. Spain
6. Uruguay
7. Paraguay
8. Holland
9. Greece
10. Argentina

15/09/12 – Premier League Match Day #4
West Ham United 3 – 0 Norwich City
Goals: West Ham: Noble (6), Anakoglou (9), Acquafresca (77)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/5, Norwich 6/0
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Friedrich (Y 84)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Stockdale 7.2, Demel 7.5, Friedrich 7.2, Tomkins 7.3, Aldrete 7.5, Noble 8.3, Gibson (off 62) 6.9, Anakoglou 9.0, Piquionne (off 62) 6.8, Cole 7.4, Acquafresca 8.2, Tafer (on 62) 6.7, Collison (on 62) 6.7

Notes:
- Wanted to get out to a quick start against 20th Norwich and Mark Noble made it so with a fantastic 30 yard blast into the top corner.
- Quick indeed. Dinmitris Anakoglou, not known for his pace, outraced the entire Norwich team on a superb solo effort.
- Anakoglou nearly had a second when he hit the inside of the left upright form distance just before the half.
- Collison and Tafer came on to make their season debuts. With both coming off injury, I wanted to get them some meaningful playing time.

19/09/12 – Awards
Trio Honored
Adrian Aldrete, Dimitris Anakoglou and Mark Noble were selected in the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

22/09/12 – Premier League Match Day #5
Leicester City 0 – 0 West Ham United
Shots/On Target: Leicester 15/9, West Ham 9/1
Possession: Leicester 58/42
Cautions: Leicester: Sutchuin (Y 29), Tunchev (Y 39), Bamba (Y 60) West Ham: Noble (Y 26), Aldrete (Y 71), Anakoglou (Y 87)
Man of the Match: David Stockdale

Form: Stockdale 7.6, Demel 7.6, Friedrich 7.5, Tomkins 7.3, Aldrete 7.3, Gibson 6.6, Noble (off 66) 7.2, Anakoglou 6.5, Piquionne 6.8, Acquafresca 6.4, Cole (off 66) 6.5, Tafer (on 65) 6.5, Collison (on 65) 6.7

Notes:
- Leicester have beefed up for the Premier League season. They added MC Nigel Reo-Coker, AML Scott Sinclair (£5.75m) and ST Hugo Rodallega (£10.5m)
- A very, very hard fought draw. I could consider us quite lucky to get a point out of the encounter. There's something about Leicester that we can't seem to ever break down.
- David Stockdale has won Man of the Match in both of our scoreless draws. He's proving to be an excellent transfer, though it is early days.

Noble Knock
Mark Noble suffered a bruised rib following a strong challenge against Leicester and will miss up to a week with the injury.

25/09/12 – Carling Cup (third round)
Wolverhampton Wanderers 3 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Wolves: Zohore (7, 11), Spence (o.g. 50) West Ham: Cole (61)
Shots/On Target: Wolves: 12/6, West Ham 15/6
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Wolves: Edu (Y 34), Zubar (Y 69) West Ham (Y 74)
Man of the Match: Kenneth Zohore

Form: Stockdale 6.5, Spence 6.8, De Laet 7.0, Reid 5.7, Ilunga 5.3, Nolan 6.8, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 7.0, Tafer 6.8, Cole 7.1, Baldock 6.6

Notes:
- Zohore burns us on a near post header from a corner. Beating us at our own game.
- I went with a weaker lineup than usual with Aston Villa in a couple of days. The league is infinitely more important than the Carling Cup.
- I'd be lying if I said I was terribly disappointed that we lost this match.

01/10/12 – September In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Freddie Sears (tactics), Sam Baldock (tactics) and Yannis Tafer (strength) have been impressing Hendon and Gatting on the training field. However, there have been concerns about the progress of Gary O'Neil (tactics), Carlton Cole (aerobic) and Arne Friedrich (aerobic).

Among the youth players, Dylan Tombides (strength), Danny Potts (strength) and Miguel Martin (aerobic) have been impressing McDonald and Lamb, but there have been concerns about the progress of Frazer Shaw (attacking).

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with Kafka's overall leadership of the team. The capture of Arne Friedrich, who the fans to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Despite the positives, the 3-1 defeat to Wolves in the Carling Cup cannot be ignored and the fans have voiced their opinion. Although a loss of £1.01m was recorded last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptStats.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptPLStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptTable.png

01/10/12 – Premier League Match Day #6
West Ham United 1 – 1 Aston Villa
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (61) Villa: Agbonlahor (43)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/6, Villa 14/4
Possession: Villa 52/48
Cautions: Villa: S. Petrov (65)
Man of the Match: Ritchie De Laet

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 6.9, De Laet 8.9, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 6.7, Gibson 6.6, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 6.8, Tafer 6.6, Cole 6.6, Acquafreca 7.2

Notes:
- This match had to be replayed due to a brief power outage. The game had been saved on its two week auto-save the day prior.
- This match was nationally televised in prime time.
- A very even match throughout, the point was well deserved for either side.
- West Ham are now unbeaten in four straight Premier League games.

02/10/12 - Awards
Ritchie De Laet has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

06/10/12 – Premier League Match Day #7
Tottenham Hotspur 4 – 1 West Ham
Goals: Spurs: Pavyluchenko (12), Bale (23), Jagielka (77), Tomkins (o.g. 89) West Ham: Collison (51)
Shots/On Target: Spurs 11/5, West Ham 11/4
Possession: Spurs 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Gibson (Y 54), Collison (Y 64)
Man of the Match: Gareth Bale (9.0)

Form: Stockdale 6.1, Spence 5.8, De Laet 6.4, Tomkins 6.4, Aldrete 5.9, Gibson 6.0, Collison 7.7, Anakoglou 6.9, Tafer (off 60) 6.0, Acquafresca 5.6, Piquionne 6.2, Baldock (on 60) 6.1

Notes:
- Roman Pavlyuchenko had a goal ruled offside (11).
- Gareth Bale's goal was a bit ropey, a diving header that was a bit offside.
- Collison's goal was from an Anakoglou corner. Exactly the kind of goals we'll need against superior teams such as Spurs.
- We had started to come back into the game a bit, but Jagielka's header sealed it.
- We could not cope with the pace of Lennon and Bale whatsoever.
- Collison and Anakoglou were the only two Hammers who could leave this match with their heads held high.
- Odds are the supporters will let us know how they felt about this one in October's review.

07/10/12 – Recalls
Four Hammers have been recalled for international matches on 13th and 17th October.
Belgium: Ritchie De Laet
Republic of Ireland: Darron Gibson
Wales: Jack Collison
New Zealand: Winston Reid

17/10/12 – FIFA Rankings
FIFA World Top Ten
1. Italy
2. France
3. Germany
4. England
5. Uruguay
6. Spain
7. Paraguay
8. Denmark
9. Holland
10. Argentina

22/10/12 – Premier League Match Day #8
Sunderland 1 – 4 West Ham United
Goals: Sunderland: Dong-Won (45+1) West Ham: Collison (6), Anakoglou (12), De Laet (54), Piquionne (60)
Shots/On Target: Sunderland: 7/4, West Ham 11/4
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: Sunderland: Dong-Won (Y 20), Boilesen (Y 42), Eriksen (Y 50), Vass (Y 66), O'Shea (Y 74) West Ham: Spence (Y 78), Collison (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Jack Collison

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 7.6, De Laet 8.4, Tomkins 7.0, Aldrete 6.9, Gibson 7.7, Collison 8.8, Anakoglou 7.7, Piquionne 7.7, Acquafresca 6.8, Cole 6.8

Notes:
- Once again we are televised in prime time on a Monday night.
- What an opening goal. Anakoglou found Collison making a run between defenders, young Jack did the rest.
- Anakoglou continued his torrid start to the match with a brilliant free kick from the right side of the box. The Greek drove it low and near side, beating Craig Gordon.
- Sunderland's stoppage time goal was off a corner, the marker lost Dong-Won who got the ball at his feet inside the six yard box.
- Ritchie De Laet's first goal for the club come on a header from an Anakoglou free kick, beating his marker at the far post.
- After Sunderland's late first half goal I was worried about them leveling the game with momentum coming out of half time.
- This is how we needed to respond after the thwacking by Spurs.
- How awesome is Dimitris Anakoglou? Seriously. A goal and two more assists. What a signing for £240,000 in July 2011.
- Our next three matches? All at The Boleyn Ground. Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea.

24/10/12 – Awards
Trio Honored
Ritchie De Laet, Jack Collison and Dimitris Anakoglou have been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

27/10/12 – Premier League Match Day #9
West Ham United 1 – 2 Manchester United
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (51) Man Utd: Rooney (45+2), Hulk (47)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 9/1, Man Utd 12/6
Possession: Man Utd 59/41
Cautions: West Ham: Collison (Y 74) Man Utd: Rooney (Y 67)
Man of the Match: Hulk

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 6.7, De Laet 6.7, Tomkins 7.8, Aldrete 6.6, Gibson (off 84) 6.7, Collison (off 84) 6.7, Anakoglou 6.8, Piquionne (off 66) 5.7, Acquafresca 5.9, Cole 5.7, Tafer (on 66) 6.5

Notes:
- We are televised as the lunch time kick off on Saturday morning. I hope Ian Darke and Steve McManaman have good things to say about us.
- The ageless Ryan Giggs had a goal ruled offside (13). Replays showed he was onside. Dodged a bullet there.
- I thought we could have made it to the half at nil-nil, but Rooney made a great run that was unopposed by anybody, easy goal.
- With Hulk's goal, I assumed the flood gates would open, but Tomkins was able to pull one back through an Anakoglou corner (how else), which seemed to give the side a little bit of verve and confidence.
- Darron Gibson wanted a goal against his former team bad, making himself wasteful from distance.
- Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan came on (84) but did not play long enough to earn a rating.

Collison Injury
Jack Collison will miss up to three weeks after twisting his knee against Manchester United.

01/11/12 – October In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, James Tomkins (strength), Marek Stech (strength) and Darron Gibson (tactics) have been impressing Hendon and Gatting, however there have been concerns about the progress of Frederic Piquionne (strength) and Mark Noble (tactics).

Among the youth players, Leo Chambers (strength), Hayri Koybasi (tactics) and James Simpson (aerobic) have impressed in recent weeks with their progress.

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership at the club. The capture of Arne Friedrich, who the fans believe to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Despite the positives, the heavy 4-1 defeat to Spurs cannot be ignored and the fans have voiced their discontent. The club is currently in a financially secure position overall and made a profit of £653K last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctPlayerStats.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctTable.png

03/11/12 – Premier League Match Day #10
West Ham United 0 – 2 Liverpool
Goals: Liverpool: Adam (34), Doumbia (69)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 7/2, Liverpool 12/3
Possession: Liverpool 53/47
Man of the Match: Charlie Adam

Form: Stockdale 5.8, Demel 6.9, De Laet (off 45) 6.6, Tomkins 6.9, Aldrete 5.9, Noble 6.8, Gibson 6.8, Anakoglou 6.0, Piquionne (off 60) 5.9, Acquafresca 6.1, Cole (off 60) 5.9, Tafer (on 60) 6.7, Baldock (on 60) 6.4

Notes:
- Liverpool put their dominance into a goal as Adam hit a 30 yard goal from open play.
- Ritchie De Laet came off at half time with an injury.
- Two home losses on the trot, but to first and third in the table respectively.
- Yes. We need another forward.

De Laet Injury
Ritchie De Laet has sustained a broken nose following a robust challenge from Liverpool's Sebastian Coates. De Laet will be out between 8-10 days with the injury.

13/11/12 – Injury News
Jack Collison has resumed full training after missing two weeks with a twisted knee.

14/11/12 – Premier League Match Day #11
West Ham United 1 – 3 Chelsea
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (51) Chelsea: Mata (32), Fuchs (45), Torres (46)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 7/3, Chelsea 13/5
Possession: Chelsea 61/39
Cautions: West Ham: Friedrich (Y 40), Tomkins (R 43), Tafer (Y 88) Chelsea: McGeady (Y 63), Fuchs (Y 70), Ramires (Y 76)
Man of the Match: Juan Manuel Mata

Form: Stockdale 6.1, Demel 6.8, Friedrich 6.7, Cole (off 42) 6.5, Aldrete 6.0, Noble 5.8, Gibson 6.1, Anakoglou 6.5, Tafer 7.2, Tomkins (off 42) 6.8, Acquafresca 6.5

Notes:
- In consecutive matches we have faced 1st, 3rd and 2nd in the table respectively.
- James Tomkins was sent off (42) for pulling down Torres. Tomkins was the last man.
- A rough patch of schedule, I didn't expect to take any points from any of the past three matches. I can only hope the club's confidence hasn't been shot.
- Tafer's goal was an early consolation, stealing the ball from Mata at midfield, dribbling through the defense and slotting past Cech. It was also his first as a Hammer.

Tomkins Suspended
James Tomkins has been given an automatic one match suspension after being sent off for a professional foul against Chelsea.

25/11/12 – Premier League Match Day #12
West Ham United 2 – 0 Reading
Goals: West Ham: Noble (68, 83)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/3, Reading 8/4
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: De Laet (Y 1), Piquionne (Y 35), Noble (Y 62) Reading: Sigurdarson (Y 24), Leigertwood (Y 26), McAnuff (Y 32), Pearce (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Demel 6.9, Friedrich 8.0, De Laet 7.0, Aldrete 7.4, Noble 8.8, Collison 7.0, Anakoglou 6.9, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 6.9, Piquionne 6.9

Notes:
- This match is televised, a Sunday afternoon match.
- Mark Noble breaks the deadlock with a 25 yard special into the bottom left corner.
- Noble's second was an even more spectacular 30 yard free kick.

27/11/12 – Awards
Mark Noble was selected in the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

28/11/12 – Premier League Match Day #13
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Wolves: Doyle (34) West Ham: Tafer (77)
Shots/On Target: Wolves 8/2, West Ham 9/5
Possession: Wolves 54/46
Cautions: Wolves: van Bommel (Y 77) West Ham: Collison (Y 24), Aldrete (Y 71)
Man of the Match: Martin Olsson

Form: Stockdale 6.7, Spence 6.2, Friedrich 7.0, De Laet 7.2, Aldrete 6.8, Noble 6.8, Collison 7.1, Anakoglou 6.8, Tafer 7.2, Acquafresca 5.9, Piquionne 6.8

Notes:
- We got even through Piquionne picking out a pass to Tafer at the back corner. Very nice goal.
- Acquafresca got through on goal and hit the upright (88)

01/12/12 – November In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Jordan Spence (aerobics), David Stockdale (tactics) and Sam Cowler (GK – handling) have been impressing Margetson and Gatting, however there have been concerns about the progress of Herita Ilunga (tactics).

Among the youth players, Frazer Shaw (ball control), Joshua Siafa (aerobic) and James Simpson (aerobic) have impressed Murtough and Carr with their progression in recent weeks.

Board Confidence
The board is very pleased with the overall leadership of the team. The capture of Arne Friedrich is still particularly pleasing. Though they are still feeling a bit of disappointment with the departure of Pablo Barrera. Although a loss of £330K was recorded last month, the club are in a secure financial position overall.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovPlayerStats.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovTable.png

01/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #14
Queens Park Rangers 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: QPR: Ninis (25) West Ham: Acquafresca (pen 16)
Shots/On Target: QPR 6/5, West Ham 12/5
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: QPR: Barton (R 30), Bangura (Y 30), Ferdinand (Y 36) West Ham: Demel (Y 1), Ilunga (Y 64), Anakoglou (Y 65), Acquafresca Y 66)
Man of the Match: Sotiris Ninis

Form: Stockdale 6.8, Demel 7.1, Friedrich 7.0, Tomkins 6.9, Ilunga 5.9, Nolan 6.7, Gibson 6.8, Anakoglou 6.8, Tafer (off 77) 6.8, Acquafresca 6.7, Piquionne (off 60) 6.7, Cole (on 60) 6.3

Notes:
- Anton Ferdinand pulled down Darron Gibson in the box. Acquafresca converted the penalty.
- We were caught napping on Ninis' goal. Only two defenders back against four attackers.
- Joey Barton was given a straight red after tackling and injuring Darron Gibson.
- Sam Baldock came on (77) but did not earn a rating.

Tafer Injured
Yannis Tafer is set to spend 3 weeks out while recovering from a pulled hamstring suffered against QPR.

08/12/12 – Injury
Sam Baldock is suffering from a sports hernia and will be out for 4-5 weeks while undergoing treatment.

10/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #15
West Ham United 2 – 2 Blackburn Rovers
Goals: West Ham: Friedrich (5), Piquionne (21) Blackburn: Diane (33), Ortigoza (pen 86)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 13/5, Blackburn 18/9
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 73)
Man of the Match: Arne Friedrich

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Demel 6.9, Friedrich 8.0, Tomkins 5.7, Aldrete 6.7, Noble 6.7, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 7.4, Acquafresca 6.9, Cole 5.7, Piquionne 7.2

Notes:
- On television, Monday evening prime time match.
- Arne Friedrich's goal was his first as a Hammer.
- James Tomkins concedes on a foul in the box during a free kick. We had this match won.

15/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #16
Arsenal 3 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Arsenal: van Persie (4, 10), Mertesacker (89) West Ham: Cole (7)
Shots/On Target: Arsenal 19/8, West Ham 14/9
Possession: Arsenal 59/41
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 36), De Laet (Y 64), Friedrich (Y 77), Demel (Y 85)
Man of the Match: Robin van Persie

Form: Stockdale 6.4, Demel 6.8, Friedrich 6.9, De Laet 6.8, Aldrete 5.5, Noble 6.8, Collison (off 60) 6.7, Anakoglou 7.1, Acquafresca (off 60) 6.6, Cole 7.3, Piquionne 6.9, Sears (on 60) 6.4, Gibson (on 60) 6.3

Notes:
- We are the evening kick-off and on prime time television.
- Not the start we wanted. Arteta's corner finds an unmarked van Persie and it was gravy from there for the Dutch striker.
- Huge early equalizer and confidence booster for Carlton Cole. Anakoglou had a shot saves by Szczesny and it wa an easy tap in for Cole.
- Van Persie from the top of the box, no chance for Stockdale.

22/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #17
Newcastle United 4 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Newcastle: Ba (29, 48), Jonas (36), Obertan (72) West Ham: Acquafresca (69)
Shots/On Target: Newcastle 15/8, West Ham 11/2
Possession: Newcastle 54/46
Cautions: Newcastle: Heinze (Y 23), Taylor (Y 85) West Ham: Friedrich (Y 53), Aldrete (Y 80), Collison (Y 85), Acquafresca (Y 90+1)
Man of the Match: Demba Ba

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Demel 5.8, Friedrich 5.8, De Laet 6.3, Aldrete 5.7, Noble 6.6, Collison 5.7, Anakoglou 5.7, Acquafresca 7.2, Cole 5.6, Piquionne 7.0

Notes:
- Newcastle sit 13th in the table, one point behind us coming in.
- Completely outplayed. Every phase of the game. Our attack is putrid.
- Not even scoring a goal can give us any hope when we give one up three minutes later.
- I may be in the market for a left back. Aldrete has been terrible.

Collison Suspended
Jack Collison has picked up an automatic one match suspension after collecting five yellow cards.

26/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #18
West Ham United 1 – 2 Manchester City
Goals: West Ham: Piquionne (74) City: Silva (30), Toure (45)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 8/1, City 26/9
Possession: City 54/46
Cautions: City: Clichy (Y 13)
Man of the Match: David Silva

Form: Stockdale 7.2, Demel 5.7, Friedrich 6.0, Tomkins 6.0, Aldrete 5.9, Noble 6.7, Anakoglou 6.6, Gibson (off 60) 5.9, Tafer 6.8, Acquafresca (off 60) 5.8, Piquionne 7.3, Cole (on 60) 6.9, Nolan (on 60) 6.9

Notes:
- Lucky goal for us, ball pinged around the box a bit and Piq was able to get his head onto it and past a diving Pantimilion.
- Marked improvement over the previous two losses. We're getting closer, but we're still not showing enough at the back or up top. The midfield has been solid.

29/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #19
West Ham United 2 – 1 Everton
Goals: West Ham: Cole (24), Collison (76) Everton: Cisse (82)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 19/7, Everton 12/7
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Everton: Cisse (Y 67)
Man of the Match: Ritchie De Laet

Form: Stockdale 7.2, Spence 7.0, Reid 7.0, De Laet 7.6, Aldrete 6.8, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.4, Gibson 7.1, Acquafresca 7.0, Cole 7.3, Piquionne 6.9

Notes:
- The halfway point of the season.
- Hey, we opened the scoring through Carlton Cole! Very nice goal after receiving a long ball from the defence.
- I was a little worried was Cisse got his goal late, but we held on and I'm very pleased with the win.
- The win was our first in seven matches.

31/12/12 – Premier League Match Day #20
West Ham United 1 – 0 West Brom Albion
Goals: West Ham: Nolan (12)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/4, WBA 7/2
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Demel (Y 2), Tomkins (Y 36), Collison (Y 40), Anakoglou (Y 83), Nolan (Y 90+3) WBA: Olsson (Y 18), Long (Y 59), Reid (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Guy Demel

Form: Stockdale 7.5, Demel 7.8, Friedrich 7.1, Tomkins 7.1, De Laet 7.3, Nolan 7.3, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 6.9, Acquafresca 5.5, Cole 6.8, Tafer 6.9

Notes:
- Nolan, who hasn't found much playing time this year, hits an absolute belter from 20 yards out.
- Two on the trot, another big, big win!

Reid Signs New Deal
Winston Reid has signed a lucrative 4 year deal worth £3m to stay with the club.

01/01/13 – December In Review
Awards
Balon d'Or: Leo Messi
World Player of the Year: David Villa
African Footballer of the Year: Jon Obi Mikel
Asian Player of the Year: Tim Cahill
Young Asian Player of the Year: Ji Dong-Won
French Player of the Year: Samir Nasri

Training Report
Among the senior players, Jack Collison (aerobic), Marek Stech (strength) and Dimitris Anakoglou (strength) have impressed Winsper and Lamb on the training pitch. However, there have been concerns about Frederic Piquionne (strength), Ritchie De Laet (aerobic) and Yannis Tafer (aerobic).

Among the youth players, Danny Potts (strength), George Lansbury (tactics) and Steve Holland (tactics) have impressed.

Board Confidence
Nothing new in board confidence. Still pleased, still happy with Friedrich, still disappointed with the departure of Barrera. The club made a profit of £466K last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecPlayerStats-1.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecTable-1.png

05/01/13 – FA Cup (third round)
West Ham United 4 – 0 Bristol Rovers
Goals: West Ham: Gibson (9), Piquionne (14, 25, 45+1)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 25/6, Bristol 2/0
Possession: West Ham 69/31
Man of the Match: Frederique Piquionne

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 9.0, Friedrich 7.5, Reid 7.8, Ilunga 7.6, Nolan 7.1, Gibson 8.9, Anakoglou 9.0, Acquafresca 7.0, Cole 6.9, Piquionne 9.6

Notes:
- Piquionne has a goal disallowed for a push in the back. (3)
- Darron Gibson scores his first ever goal for West Ham.
- Hell of a first half from Piquionne.
- We have been awarded £68,650 for winning.

06/01/13 – Injury
Baldock has returned to full training after missing four weeks with a sports hernia.

07/01/13 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham United will host Cardiff City at The Boleyn Ground on 2nd February in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

12/01/13 – Premier League Match Day #21
Fulham 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Fulham: Davies (12) West Ham: Acquafresca (5)
Shots/On Target: Fulham 14/7, West Ham 10/4
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: Fulham: Grygera (Y 44) West Ham: Nolan (Y 45+1), Friedrich (Y 60), Collison (Y 70)
Man of the Match: Simon Davies

Form: Stockdale 7.0, Spence 7.0, Friedrich 6.8, Tomkins 7.1, Aldrete 6.9, Nolan 6.0, Collison 6.0, Anakoglou 6.9, Acquafresca 7.2, Cole 6.8, Piquionne 6.6

Notes:
- Early goals are always good, especially when worked from back to front. All three strikers touched it and Cole found Acquafresca making a run.
- Davies' goal was from an acute angle, ridiculous shot.
- Another game we take points from. Four straight matches in all competitions with a win or draw.

19/01/13 – Premier League Match Day #22
West Ham United 2 – 1 Stoke City
Goals: West Ham: Noble (37), Tomkins (54) Stoke: Falk (84)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/7, Stoke 6/3
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Cole (Y 42), Collison (Y 89) Stoke: Hlousek (Y 74)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Stockdale 6.8, Spence 7.4, Friedrich 6.9, Tomkins 7.8, Aldrete 7.1, Noble 6.8, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 7.7, Cole (off 61) 5.8, Acquafresca 6.9, Piquionne 6.8, Tafer (on 61) 6.7

Notes:
- Dean Whitehead fouled Mark Noble going for a loose ball in the box. Noble had the penalty saved, but the rebound was directly to him.
- Tomkins doubles the West Ham lead from an Anakoglou corner, heading it home with authority.
- We love to give up late goals so I can sweat it out.
- That's now five results on the trot. Building confidence.

20/01/13 – News
Apparently we're still making money from Brescia for Fabio Daprela. We've been given another £50,000 after he has no played in 25 league matches.

22/01/13 – Injury
Ritchie De Laet has returned to full training following his damaged foot.

24/01/13 – Signing
West Ham United have announced the loan signing of Liverpool fullback Jack Robinson. The 19 year old will join the Hammers for the rest of the season for a fee of £975k. West Ham can make the loan deal a permanent deal for £3m at any time during the loan.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Robinson.png

26/01/13 – Premier League Match Day #23
Norwich City 1 – 4 West Ham United
Goals: Norwich: Ayala (70) West Ham: Tomkins (42), Tafer (52), Piquionne (68), Acquafresca (72)
Shots/On Target: Norwich 6/1, West Ham 13/7
Possession: Norwich 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Collison (Y 45), Noble (Y 45), Piquionne (Y 82)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 7.5, Friedrich 7.0, Tomkins 8.3, Robinson 7.9, Noble (off 45) 6.1, Collison 7.3, Anakoglou 7.1, Cole (off 45) 6.0, Acquafresca 7.7, Piquionne 7.7, Tafer (on 45) 8.2, Gibson (on 45) 6.9

Notes:
- Jack Robinson being thrown into the fire, I'm giving him every chance to earn a permanent deal here.
- Robinson assists with a wonderful cross on Yannis Tafer's goal.
- Tafer provides a sublime assist on Acquafresca's goal.
- That's six results on the trot in all competitions.

29/01/13 – Awards
James Tomkins was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

01/02/13 – January In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, James Tomkins (strength) and Dimitris Anakoglou (strength) have impressed Lamb on the training pitch, though there have been concerns about the progress of Arne Friedrich (strength).

Among the youth players, Nick Stacey (strength), Peter Bodie (tactics) and Miguel Martin (tactics) have been impressing Hendon and Gatting, though there have been concerns about the progress of Steve Holland (tactics)

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership of the team. The capture of Ritchie De Laet, who the fans believe to be a very good signing, has been particularly pleasing. However, they are slightly disappointed with the departure of Pablo Barrera. The club recorded a loss of £1.79m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanPlayerStats.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanTable-1.png

02/02/13 – FA Cup (fourth round)
West Ham United 0 – 1 Cardiff City
Goals: Cardiff: Miller (pen 47)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/6, Cardiff 12/3
Possession: Cardiff 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Baldock (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 6.6, De Laet 6.8, Reid 6.9, Robinson 5.3, Nolan 6.7, Gibson 6.8, Noble 7.5, Tafer 6.5, Acquafresca 6.1, Baldock 6.4

Notes:
- Acquafresca had a goal ruled offside (16).
- Jack Robinson concedes a penalty (47).
- Disappointing exit and an end to our unbeaten run in all competitions, but we can fully focus on the league now.

06/02/13 – Premier League Match Day #24
West Ham United 2 – 5 Leicester City
Goals: West Ham: Piquionne (71), Tafer (87) Leicester: Noble (o.g. 14), Demidov (25), Sinclair (29), Goossens (67), Rodallega (pen 90+4)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/5, Leicester 9/6
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 32), Noble (Y 64) Leicester: Briggs (Y 39), Rodallega (Y 58), Hermach (Y 74)
Man of the Match:Vadim Demidov

Form: Stockdale 5.9, Spence 5.6, Friedrich 5.7, Tomkins (off 60) 6.7, Robinson 5.5, Noble 6.3, Collison (off 60) 6.5, Anakoglou 6.7, Tafer 7.8, Aquafresca 5.3, Piquionne 7.1, Gibson (on 60) 6.7, De Laet (on 60) 6.1

Notes:
- Mark Noble heads home a Hugo Rodallega corner, unfortunately into the wrong goal.
- Noble also concedes a penalty after the game is long over (90+4)
- What an unbelievably bad performance.
- Our first Premier League loss in six matches.

Collison Knock
Jack Collison sustained a twisted knee (again) and will miss up to two weeks.

09/02/13 – Premier League Match Day #25
West Ham United 2 – 4 Tottenham Hotspur
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (11, 20) Spurs: Rondon (33, 44, 46), Stockdale (o.g. 88)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 13/5, Spurs 7/4
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Gibson (Y 16), Anakoglou (Y 84), Aldrete (Y 87) Spurs: King (Y 14), Bale (Y 45+2), Danny (Y 62)
Man of the Match: Salomon Rondon

Form: Stockdale 6.3, Demel 6.3, Friedrich 6.4, Tomkins 6.2, Aldrete 6.4, Noble 6.1, Gibson 6.6, Anakoglou 6.8, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 8.8, Piquionne 6.8

Notes:
- Saturday lunch time televised kick-off.
- Killer to lose a two goal lead and lose 4-2.
- Spurs go top of the table with their win over us.

14/02/13 – Injury
Guy Demel is suffering from a sports hernia and is expected to miss 4-5 weeks with the injury.

16/02/13 – Premier League Match Day #26
Aston Villa 0 – 0 West Ham United
Shots/On Target: Villa: 4/1, West Ham 12/5
Possession: West Ham 60/4
Cautions: Villa: Beye (Y 50), Stevens (Y 58), Fellah (Y 87), Delfouneso (Y 90+5) West Ham: Noble (Y 45+2, Y/R 76), Spence (Y 52), Tomkins (Y 84)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 7.2, Friedrich 6.9, Tomkins 7.3, De Laet 7.1, Gibson (off 38) 6.9, Noble (off 76) 6.0, Anakoglou 7.1, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 6.8, Piquionne 7.1, Nolan (on 38) 6.8

Noble Suspended
Mark Noble has been given a one match suspension after being sent off against Aston Villa.

20/02/13 – Injury
Sam Baldock will miss two weeks after twisting his knee.

Jack Collison has returned from his twisted knee and is back in training.

01/03/13 – February In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Yannis Tafer (strength), Jack Robinson (aerobic) and Callum Driver (aerobic) have impressed. However, Kevin Nolan (aerobic) and Arne Friedrich (strength) struggled.

Board Confidence
The board is pleased with the leading of the team. The club's increase in stature has been a contributing factory. The fans have voiced their displeasure over the 4-2 loss to Spurs. The club recorded a loss of £33,770 last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FebPlayerStats-1.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FebPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Febtable-1.png

03/03/13 – Premier League Match Day #27
Manchester United 3 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: United: Vidic (32), Hulk (40), Berbatov (90+4)
Shots/On Target: United 19/8, West Ham 7/3
Possession: United 58/42
Cautions: United: Fletcher (Y 87), Rooney (Y 87)
Man of the Match: Nemanja Vidic

Form: Stockdale 6.0, Spence 6.8, Friedrich 5.8, Tomkins 6.8, De Laet 5.9, Gibson 6.7, Collison 6.5, Anakoglou 6.1, Tafer 6.8, Acquafresca 6.7, Piquionne (off 15) 6.9, Sears (on 15, off 42) 6.6, Cole (on 42) 6.9

Notes:
- Sunday afternoon televised match.

Arsenal Win
Arsenal have won the Carling Cup, defeating Stoke 2-0 in the final.

08/03/13 – Injury
Sam Baldock has returned to training following his injury with a twisted knee.

09/03/13 – Premier League Match Day #28
West Ham United 3 – 1 Sunderland
Goals: West Ham: Cole (70), Acquafresca (76), Tomkins (81) Sunderland: Wickham (90)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/7, Sunderland 13/6
Possession: West Ham 59/41
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 40)
Man of the Match: Dimitris Anakoglou

Form: Stockdale 7.1, Spence 7.9, De Laet 6.9, Tomkins 8.0, Robinson 7.1, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.9, Anakoglou 8.6, Cole 7.4, Acquafresca 7.4, Tafer 6.9

Notes:
- This was a win we desperately needed, especially against a team in a relegation dogfight. I was worried through the first half, but we came good late in the second.
- And now we're off until 31st March. Should give everyone a good rest going into the last 9 matches.

12/03/13 – Awards
Duo Named
Jordan Spence and Dimitris Anakoglou have been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

13/03/13 – News
Everton have signed West Ham's Alex Gibson as a coach. The Hammers will receive £325,000 in compensation.

16/03/13 – Injury
Guy Demel has returned to full training following his sports hernia.

31/03/13 – Premier League Match Day #29
West Ham United 2 – 1 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (10, 65) Wolves: Doyle (62)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 10/4, Wolves 15/7
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (& 90+1) Wolves: Berra (Y 74), Fletcher (Y 88)
Man of the Match: Ritchie De Laet

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 7.7, De Laet 9.0, Tomkins 7.1, Robinson 7.0, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 7.5, Tafer 5.9, Acquafresca 8.8, Piquionne 6.8

Notes:
- A match against another team we generally seem to struggle with, here's hoping we can get three points as they're behind us in the table.
- Acquafresca was brilliant with his goals. Well taken, I think next season will be a much better one for him.

01/04/13 – March In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Frederic Piquionne (tactics), Marek Stech (strength) and Darron Gibson (attacking) have been impressing on the training field. However, there have been concerns about the progress of David Stockdale (strength).

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership of the club. The team's excellent overall performance in the Premier League has been a particular highlight. However, the board are slightly disappointed with the team's performance in the FA Cup. The club recorded a loss of £300k last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchPlayerStats-1.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchTable-1.png

07/04/13 – Premier League Match Day #30
Chelsea 3 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Chelsea: Fuchs (20), Torres (42, 73) West Ham: Spence (87), Acquafresca (90+1)
Shots/On Target: Chelsea 19/9, West Ham 12/5
Possession: Chelsea 56/44
Cautions: Chelsea: Lampard (Y 9) West Ham: Tomkins (Y 16), Robinson (R 35), Collison (Y 82)
Man of the Match: Juan Manuel Mata

Form: Stockdale 5.8, De Laet 6.9, Spence 7.4, Tomkins 5.8, Robinson (off 35) 5.1, Noble 7.0, Collison 7.0, Gibson (off 70) 6.9, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 7.2, Piquionne 5.7, Nolan (on 70) 6.9

Notes:
- Sunday evening televised match.
- We nearly bagged one within 20 seconds. Tafer was released down the right and his shot just fizzed past the left post. So close.
- Jack Robinson was sent off for a professional foul. I don't believe we will be signing him long term. A bit of a failed experiment, but I wanted to see how he would work out.
- Tomkins was called for a push in the box as a cross came in (85). Stockdale saved Fernando Torres' ensuing penalty attempt. Something about penalties and hat tricks, I'm telling you.
- Yes, it was merely consolation, but Jordan's Spence's goal felt damn good.
- And so did Acquafresca's.

Bans
Jack Robinson has been given an automatic two match ban for his sending off against Chelsea.

Jack Collison has picked up an automatic two game suspension after picking up his 10th yellow card of the season.

Summer Signing
West Ham United have agreed their first summer signing, agreeing on a pre-contract with French defender Benajmin Stambouli. The 22 year old revealed that he was impressed with the club's league standing and will join West Ham from Montpellier Herault SC when his contract expires on 30th June.

10/04/13 – Premier League Match Day #31
Liverpool 5 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Liverpool: Yarmolenko (77, 80), Suarez (82), Skrtel (89). Gerrard (90+2) West Ham: Cole (66)
Shots/On Target: Liverpool 17/6, West Ham 9/4
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: Liverpool: Johnson (Y 84) West Ham: Noble (Y 21), O'Neil (Y 31), Tafer (Y 80), Tomkins (Y 90+1)
Man of the Match: Andriy Yarmolenko

Form: Stockdale 6.1, Spence 5.4, De Laet 6.4, Tomkins 5.2, Aldrete 4.7, Noble 5.6, Nolan 5.6, O'Neil 6.8, Tafer 6.8, Acquafresca (off 43) 6.2, Piquionne 6.8, Cole (on 43) 7.1

Notes:
- Acquafresca had to come off injured (43).
- I know not to trust us with a lead against a top five side. A triple salvo in five minutes sunk our battleship.
- Skrtel's goal from Landon Donovan's corner just served to embarrass us.
- We'll be looking to upgrade pieces of the defense in the summer, particularly a pair of fullbacks.

Acquafresca Injury
Huge blow for the remainder of the season, Robert Acquafresca suffered strained ankle ligaments and will be out 3-4 weeks.

13/04/13 – Premier League Match Day #32
West Ham United 2 – 1 Queens Park Rangers
Goals: West Ham: Friedrich (16), Tafer (30) QPR: Bangura (58)
Shots/On Target: West ham 15/5, QPR 9/4
Possession: West Ham 46/54
Cautions: West Ham: Demel (Y 66)
Man of the Match: Arne Friedrich

Form: Stockdale 7.0, Demel 6.9, Friedrich 8.0, Tomkins 7.4, Ilunga 6.8, Gibson 6.9, Nolan 6.9, O'Neil 7.5, Tafer 7.3, Cole 6.7, Baldock 6.9

Notes:
- Great headed goal from Friedrich. Got us off to the start we absolutely needed.
- The win temporarily puts us 9th in the table.

16/04/13 – Awards
Arne Friedrich was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

17/04/13 – News
Aston Villa have appointed West Ham assistant manager Neil McDonald to the same position at their club. West Ham will receive a compensation fee of £55,000 as part of the deal.

18/04/13 – News
Not wasting any time, Otto Kafka has moved to appoint Edward Sturing as his new assistant manager.

Some numbers for Sturing:
Man Management: 13
Working With Youngsters: 14
Adaptability: 15
Determination: 12
Judging Player Ability: 18
Judging Player Potential: 16
Level of Discipline: 13
Motivating: 18

20/04/13 – Premier League Match Day #33
Reading 2 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Reading: Efraim (7, 80) West Ham: Cole (48, 70)
Shots/On Target: Reading 9/3, West Ham 15/6
Possession: Reading 54/46
Cautions: Reading: Obita (Y 5), Hunt (Y 37), Griffin (Y 55), Nuytinck (Y 75) West Ham: Ilunga (Y 68)
Man of the Match: Giorgos Efraim

Form: Stockdale 6.7, Spence 7.0, De Laet 6.6, Tomkins 6.8, Ilunga 5.8, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.8, Anakoglou 6.8, Tafer 6.8, Tafer 6.8, Cole 8.8, Piquionne 6.6

Notes:
- Is Carlton Cole finally coming alive at the end of the term?
- Piq had a goal taken away for pushing a defender in the back.

26/04/13 – Premier League Match Day #34
Blackburn Rovers 2 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: Blackburn: Bresciano (13), Diane (51)
Shots/On Target: Blackburn 15/4, West Ham 10/3
Possession: Blackburn 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 66)
Man of the Match: Amara Diane

Form: Stockdale 6.5, Spence 6.6, De Laet 6.9, Tomkins 6.0, Aldrete 5.8, Noble 6.7, Collison 6.7, Anakoglou 6.0, Tafer 6.9, Cole 6.3, Piquionne 6.5

Notes:
- To say we were toothless in attack for this one would be a gross understatement.
- I need a left back badly. I have played three players here and their average form is a 6.48.

01/05/13 – April In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, David Stockdale (tactics), Yannis Tafer (tactics) and Peter Kurucz (GK – handling) have impressed on the training field. There have been concerns about the progress of Frederic Piquionne (tactics)

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership of the team. The club's increase in stature since Kafka's appointment has been a contributing factor. However, some of the fans have voiced their concerns over James Tomkins' performances and that is something to be considered. The club recorded a loss of £831k last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AprilStats.png

Premier League Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AprilPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AprilTable.png

06/05/13 – Premier League Match Day #35
West Ham United 2 – 2 Arsenal
Goals: West Ham: Collison (58), Cole (73) Arsenal: Mertesacker (37), Arteta (90+1)
Shots/On Target: West ham 13/5, Arsenal 17/5
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: Arsenal: Sagna (Y 44)
Man of the Match: Yannis Tafer

Form: Stockdale 6.9, Spence 6.8, De Laet 6.9, Tomkins 6.9, Robinson 6.8, Noble 6.7, Collison 7.5, Anakoglou 6.9, Tafer 8.5, Cole 7.3, Piquionne 5.9

Notes:
- Monday evening in prime time on the television.
- I thought this match was over at half time, we hadn't done anything of note, but leave it to a set piece for us to find a way back in.
- Direct passing pays off with Carlton Cole's goal, rounding Szczesny and beating him from there.
- Our frailties at left back are exposed late and Robinson is beat by Arteta, Stockdale had no chance to save.

07/05/13 – Awards
Yannis Tafer was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

08/05/13 – Reid Wants Out, Tafer In
Winston Reid has requested a transfer. We have acquiesced this request.

Yannis Tafer will be joining the club on a permanent deal after we reached a £2m agreement on a transfer with Olympique Lyonnais. Tafer started slow, but has been playing strong toward the end of the season and at this price will be a fine full time addition to the club.

11/05/13 – Premier League Match Day #36
Manchester City 5 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: City: Badelj (4), K. Toure (19), Nasri (39, 40), Dzeko (73) West Ham: K. Toure (o.g. 11), Piquionne (16), Tafer (56)
Shots/On Target: City 29/15, West Ham 12/5
Possession: City 52/48
Cautions: City: Bocchetti (Y 75), Kompany (Y 89)
Man of the Match: Samir Nasri

Form: Stockdale 8.1, Spence 5.3, Friedrich 5.7, Tomkins 5.8, De Laet 6.6, Noble 6.7, Collison 6.1, Anakoglou 5.9, Tafer 7.2, Cole 6.7, Piquionne 8.3

Notes:
- The first own goal to benefit us all season.
- Our lead was short lived as Kolo Toure made up for the gaffe in his own end.
- City has far too much skill on the ball for us to be able to cope in any manner.
- Nasri scoring two goals in two minutes absolutely killed us.

18/05/13 – Premier League Match Day #37
West Ham United 1 – 2 Newcastle United
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (74) Newcastle: Ben Arfa (2), Krohn-Dehli (19)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/6, Newcastle 12/6
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: West Ham: De Laet (Y 38), Newcastle: Ba (Y 82)
Man of the Match: Tim Krul

Form: Stockdale 7.5, Spence 7.1, Tomkins 7.3, De Laet 7.0, Noble 6.9, Collison 6.5, Anakoglou ( off 51) 6.6, Tafer 6.5, Cole 6.6, Piquionne 6.7, Reid (on 18) 6.7, Gibson (on 51) 6.9

Notes:
- Two goals conceded in the first twenty minutes, Friedrich got injured and from that point on we looked out of sorts at the back.
- Leave it to James Tomkins to get home a header from a corner to try and pull us back.

Injuries
Dimitris Anakoglou suffered a torn calf muscle, ending the player's season. He will be out 3-4 months. The Greek midfielder finished the season with 36 appearances, 2 goals and 16 assists in all competitions.

Arne Friedrich suffered a broken jaw and will miss the rest of the season. His contract is up on 30th June and he will most likely not be retained.

26/05/13 – Premier League Match Day #38
Everton 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Everton: Cisse (81) West Ham: Collison (75)
Shots/On Target: Everton 16/4, West ham 12/4
Possession: Everton 52/48
Man of the Match: Jack Rodwell

Form: Stockdale 6.7, Spence 7.1, De Laet 6.9, Tomkins 7.2, Robinson 6.9, Noble 6.9, Collison 7.3, Gibson 6.8, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 6.8, Piquionne 6.8

Notes:
- We finish the season with a draw against a very good Everton team. We'll take it. Lots of work to be done now...

Relegated
Queens Park Rangers, Sunderland and Reading have been relegated to the npower Championship.

Money
West Ham have been given £7.36m for their final position in the Premier League.

The club has paid out £475k among the squad to be shared on a pro-rata basis after the 13th placed finish.

Awards
English Footballer of the Year: Fernando Torres
English Players' Player of the Year: Gareth Bale
Top Goalscorer: Fernando Torres
English Players' Young Player of the Year: Andriy Yarmolenko
English Golden Gloves: Pepe Reina

Yearly Training Summary
The following players have trained well and shown signs of progression over the past season:
James Tomkins, Marek Stech and Yannis Tafer have improved well as players.
Jordan Spence and Sam Cowler have improved significantly as footballers.

The following players have failed to impress in training during the season:
Gary O'Neil, Herita Ilunga and Frederic Piquionne have declined slightly as players.
Guy Demel and Arne Friedrich have shown early signs that they may be on the decline as players.

Vacation
The squad is now on vacation until pre-season begins. Players will report back for training on 8th July.

Contract News
The following first team players have their contracts expiring on 30th June. It is likely that none of them will be renwed:
Guy Demel £15k/wk
Herita Ilunga £25k/wk (yes, he makes that much)
Arne Friedrich £10.75k/wk
Freddie Sears £7.5k/wk
Marek Stech £2.3k/wk

01/06/13 – May In Review
Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership at the club. The team's excellent performance in the Premier League has been a particular highlight. However, the board are slightly disappointed with the team's performance in the FA Cup. The club is currently in a secure financial position overall and made a profit of £6.28m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
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Premier League Player Stats
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Final Premier League Table
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04/06/13 – News
New Sponsorship Deal
West Ham have announced a new main kit sponsor. The four year deal is estimated to be worth £2.4m per year. The previous deal was worth £1.72m per year.

Board Set Initial Budget
The board have set the initial payroll for the coming season at £675k per week and the transfer budget at £22.16m.

Carr To Retire
West Ham coach Tony Carr has announced he will retire at the end of the season. His intended date is 27th May, 2014.

Hammers Nab Two
West Ham United have agreed to free transfers for Scottish attacking midfielder John Fleck and Turkish goalkeeper Sinan Bolat.

These two signings bring the free transfer total for this coming season to three.

08/06/13 – News
Friedrich To Retire
West Ham central defender Arne Friedrich has announced that he will retire from professional football when his contract expires on 30th June.

09/06/13 – Signing
West Ham have completed the signing of Olympique Lyonnais' 22 year old French striker Yannis Tafer for a fee of £2.3m. Tafer had been on loan at The Boleyn Ground and clearly did enough to persuade West Ham management to make the deal permanent. Defender Ritchie De Laet has welcomed the forward's permanent move and said the player's signing will benefit the club.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Tafer2.png

15/06/13 – Everton Sniffing
Everton have been sniffing around fullback Jordan Spence. We've issued a hands off warning and hope that will be the end of it.

Nolan Out?
We're offering Kevin Nolan to clubs for £1m, hoping to try and get his £58,000 per week salary off the books.

I am confident a midfield of Anakoglou (when healthy), Collison, Noble and Gibson can do a job for us.

18/06/13 – Spence Ups
Jordan Spence has put pen to paper on a new four year deal worth £3.5m

24/06/13 – Prem / Champo Review
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25/06/13 – West Ham Review
Fans' Player of the Year
West Ham supporter spokesperson, Craig Hart has announced that Dimitris Anakoglou has been voted West Ham's Player of the Year by fans.

Best Eleven
GK: Stockdale, DL: Aldrete, DC: Tomkins, De Laet, DR: Spence, MC: Gibson, Collison, Anakoglou, ST: Cole, Acquafresca, Piquionne

TV Rights
West Ham will receive £45.99m for Premier League television rights over the upcoming season.

Board Expectations
The West Ham United board is expecting the club to finish within the top half this season.

I guess I overshot myself by finishing 13th. We'll see how this goes.

01/07/13 – Player Signings
Stambouli Sad To Leave Fans
West Ham have completed the signing of enthusiastic centre-back Benajmin Stambouli from Montperllier Herault SC on a free transfer. The player has gone public with his appreciation for the supprt he received from Les Pailladins fans while he was at the club. He commented that the level of encouragement he received from the fans would be his lasting memory of his time at Stade de La Mosson.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Stambouli.png

Dream Come True For Fleck
West Ham have signed 21 year old attacking midfielder John Fleck from Rangers on a free transfer. The youngster has described his move from The Ibrox to The Boleynj Ground as a 'dream come true.' After completing his signing, the player told the press that when a club like West Ham shows interest in you and then make a bid it's a fantastic compliment for any player.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Fleck.png

Bolat Relishes Challenge
West Ham have snapped up former Standard Liege goalkeeper Sinan Bolat on a free transfer. The Turkish player has told his new club that he can't wait to test himself on a bigger stage. Speaking after his recent move to London, he explained that it had long been his dream to play at a higher level and he now had the chance to prove himself.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Bolat.png

02/07/13 – Contracts
Anakoglou Signs
Dimitris Anakoglou has put pen to paper on a new three year deal. He stated that his love for the club was the main reason behind him signing the new deal.

08/07/13 – Signing
Fabio's United Hell At End
West Ham have completed the signing of Manchester United's 22 year old Brazilian left back Fabio for a fee of £2.2m. Fabio has spoken of his relief at ending his nightmare at Old trafford after completing a move to West Ham. He added that he hoped the move will give him the chance to play againa fter spending so long on the sidelines at United.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Fabio.png

09/07/13 – Injury
De Laet Suffering
Ritchie De Laet broke down in training today and looks to be suffering from a double hernia. The defender will miss between 6 and 7 weeks while he is treated.

11/07/13 – Injury
Piquionne Out
Frederic Piquionne has sustained a slipped disc during a weight training session. The striker will see a specialist and miss 2-3 months while being treated.

Nolan To Wolves
Kevin Nolan has negotiated terms with Wolves and will join the club on a £500,000 transfer.

De Silvestri In
West Ham have signed Italian fullback Lorenzo De Silvestri on a free transfer.

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17/07/13 – Friendly
Burton 1 – 0 West Ham

19/07/13 – Friendly
Kilmarnock 1 – 1 West Ham

21/07/13 – Friendly
Watford 2 – 2 West Ham

Gosling Signs
Newcastle's Dan Gosling is delighted to have successfully negotiated terms with West Ham. Gosling has revealed that he was very eager to rise to the challenge of moving to such an illustrious club. The deal sees the player joining West Ham for £1m.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Gosling.png

Popov Joins Hammers
Gaziantespor's Ivelin Popov is said to be pleased at having agreed terms with West Ham. Popov revealed that he was really relishing the prospect of improving the fortunes of such a popular club. The deal sees the Bulgarian international joining West Ham for £5m. Gaziantespor president Ibrahim Kizil decided that the offer was too good to refuse and confirmed the transfer on behalf of management.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Popov.png

23/07/13 – Friendly
GS Iraklis Salonika 0 – 10 West Ham

TEN!

26/07/13 – Friendly
GS Ergotelis 2 – 1 West Ham

31/07/13 – Friendly
West Ham 3 – 0 CSKA Moscow

12/08/13 – Captain
Jack Collison has been named captain of West Ham in the wake of Kevin Nolan's departure. Mark Noble has been promoted to vice-captain.

13/08/13 – Injury
Collison Hurt
Jack Collison has been injured on Wales duty, pulling a hamstring. The midfielder and West Ham skipper is expected to miss around three weeks.

15/08/13 – Carling Cup Draw
West Ham will travel to Hillsborough to face Sheffield Wednesday in the Carling Cup second round. The match will take place on 27th August.

17/08/13 – Premier League Match Day #1
West Ham United 3 – 1 Chelsea
Goals: West Ham: Gibson (43), Noble (pen 48), Popov (52) Chelsea: Stambouli (o.g. 80)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/6, Chelsea 6/2
Possession: West Ham 58/42
Cautions: Chelsea: Chygrynskyi (R 47)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Bolat 6.7, De Silvestri 7.6, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 7.6, Fabio 6.9, Gosling 7.0, Gibson 7.6, Noble (off 72) 8.3, Popov 8.1, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca (off 72) 6.2, Fleck (on 72) 6.8, Cole (on 72) 6.8

Notes:
- We are the very first match of the Premier League season. Lunch time kick-off on live television.
- Lots of new players and a new formation for the Hammers. Can we get off on the right foot against a strong Chelsea side?
- Darron Gibson takes a pass from Mark Noble and finds the right corner of goal from 25 yards.
- Dmytro Chygrynskyi was sent off for bringing down Popov in the box. Surprising way to start the second half.
- Popov took a pass from Mark Noble and blasted it into the bottom right corner of goal from 20 yards.
- A bit of a communication error as Lukaku rushed in on goal, leading Stambouli to bundle it into the back of our net.
- Brilliant win, our first against any of our London rivals in the Premier League.

18/08/13 – News
Season Ticket Sales
West Ham have announced the final sales figures for season tickets. The ticket office has confirmed the club has sold 23,912 season tickets, up from last year's total of 23,795.

24/08/13 – Injury News
De Laet Back
Ritchie De Laet has returned to training after recovering from his double hernia.

25/08/13 – Premier League Match Day #2
Liverpool 2 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Liverpool: Lucas (57), Kuyt (88) West Ham: Gibson (1), Acquafresca (55), Fleck (77)
Shots/On Target: Liverpool 19/11, West Ham 11/7
Possession: Liverpool 58/42
Cautions: Liverpool: Coates (Y 8), Gerrard (Y 45+2), West Ham: Noble (Y 9), Acquafresca (Y 13)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: Bolat 6.5, De Silvestri 6.8, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 6.9, Fabio 6.9, Gosling 7.0, Gibson 8.2, Noble (off 68) 7.0, Popov 6.9, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 7.3, Fleck (on 68) 7.3

Notes:
- What a start. Tafer brings the ball in from the right side of the box, dribbles into the six and pushes a little layoff pass for Gibson who taps it home.
- Another great goal. Gibson finds Acquafresca making a run between defenders and gets a 30 yard pass right onto his feet in the box, Reina had no chance.
- Liverpool strike right back to keep it a one goal lead with Lucas getting free on the left and Suarez finding him with a neat pass.
- Fleck steals the ball from Isla and dribbles into the box, slotting it past Reina with ease.
- Kuyt's goal was the result of the counter attack, Yarmolenko switching the flank. Three Liverpool players against one defender and Bolat, the Dutchman finished nicely.
- Two wins in two matches against two of last year's top five.

Anakoglou Back
We keep getting healthier with Dimitris Anakoglou returning to training after missing the last three months with a torn calf muscle.

27/08/13 – Carling Cup (second round)
Sheffield Wednesday 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (7, pen 44), Cole (60)
Shots/On Target: Weds 7/1, West Ham 7/5
Possession: Weds 51/49
Cautions: Weds: Whelan (Y 32), Douglas (Y 45+2)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 8.2, Stambouli 7.8, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 7.6, Gosling 7.1, Stacey 7.0, Holland 6.9, Fleck 8.8, Baldock 6.9, Cole 8.9

Notes:
- Giving two central midfielders from the U18s a chance to see what they can do in this one.
- Sheffield Wednesday have the wonderfully named Mark De Man playing defensive midfielder. They've also got former Hammer loanee Glenn Whelan.
- John Fleck opens the account, taking a pass from Carlton Cole, dribbling into the box and slotting it under the Weds keeper.
- Cole was pulled down in the box during a scrum, earning a penalty.
- Cole gets himself an easy goal when the Weds keeper tries to dive on the ball and mis-handles. Cole simply pokes it home.
- Stacey and Holland, making their full debuts were solid, if we can get a couple of more non-Premier League sides in the Carling Cup (and FA Cup) they will see more time.

29/08/13 – Player Signing
Marcq In For West Ham
West Ham United have signed former France U21 international Damien Marcq from Stade Brestois for £6.25m. Marcq will no doubt feel he has something to prove to his former club after not having enjoyed the best of seasons last term. The defensive midfielder has told his new club he cannot wait to test himself on a larger stage, telling reporters it was his dream to play at a higher level.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Marcq.png

31/08/13 – News
Carling Cup Draw
West Ham United will travel to the Brittania Stadium to face Stoke City in the third round of the Carling Cup. The match will be played on 24th September.

Kafka Reaches Century
Media-shy manager Otto Kafka will celebrate his 100th match as manager of West Ham when his side face Manchester United tomorrow.

01/09/13 – Premier League Match Day #3
West Ham United 2 – 0 Manchester United
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (78), Di Silvestri (89)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/5, United 9/2
Possession: West Ham 57/43
Cautions: United: Vidic (Y 61), Rooney (Y 69)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Bolat 6.9, De Silvestri 7.9, Stambouli 7.6, Tomkins 8.1, Fabio 7.7, Gosling 6.9, Gibson 7.9, Noble (off 65) 6.8, Popov 6.8, Tafer 7.1, Acquafresca 6.9, Fleck (on 65) 8.1

Notes:
- Sunday afternoon televised kick-off.
- Hazard has a goal ruled offside (30).
- John Fleck is proving to be a super-sub. His goal was an absolute stunner. He took a pass, took three steps into the box from the far left and belted it off the underside of the crossbar.
- Popov set up De Silvestri, dribbling horizontal to the top of the box and putting in a diagonal through ball onto the fullback's foot.
- We are now 3-0-0 against 3 of the top five teams, including last year's champions. Unbelievable start.

Sponsorship Deal
West Ham have announced a new 2 year sponsorship deal with £220k per annum.

Training Report
Among the senior players, Benjamin Stambouli (attacking), John Fleck (attacking) and Frank Nouble (strength) have impressed on the training field, though there have been concerns about Dimitris Anakoglou (strength) and Ritchie De Laet (strength)

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is pleased with the leading of the team. This has been underlined by the fans' delight with the 3-1 victory over Chelsea. However, they are slightly disappointed with the current situation concerning the signing of Fabio. The club recorded a loss of £6.33m last month.

Nine Called Up
Nine West Ham players have been recalled for international matches on 7th and 11th September.
Adrian Aldrete (MEX), Ritchie De Laet (BEL), Ivelin Popov (BUL), Dimitris Anakoglou (GRE), Darron Gibson (IRE), John Fleck (SCO), Sinan Bolat (TUR), Jack Collison (WAL) and Winston Reid (NZE)

Hammers Snap Up Youngster
West Ham United have completed the signing of U Cluj's 16 year old Romanian central midfielder Alberto Niculescu for a fee of £900k. The youngster has described his move to London as a 'dream come true.'

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Niculescu.png

03/09/13 – News
Trio Honored
Fabio, Lorenzo De Silvestri and John Fleck were selected in the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

Collison Back
Jack Collison has begun full training after recovering from a pulled hamstring.

05/09/13 – News
Niculescu Knocked
New boy Alberto Niculescu sustained a twisted ankle while playing for the Romania U19s. The player will miss three weeks while he recovers.

12/09/13 – News
De Laet Knocked
Ritchie De Laet is having trouble staying healthy. The defender sustained a fractured arm while on duty with Belgium and is expected to miss around a month.

14/09/13 – Premier League Match Day #4
Stoke City 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Stoke: Huth (10) West Ham: Acquafresca (30)
Shots/On Target: Stoke 13/6, West Ham 11/2
Possession: Stoke 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 63)
Man of the Match: Robert Huth

Form: Bolat 5.7, De Silvestri 6.8, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 6.8, Fabio 7.2, Gosling 6.8, Gibson 6.6, Noble 6.8, Popov 6.8, Tafer (off 49) 6.6, Acquafresca 7.2, Baldock (on 49) 6.2

Notes:
- A Pennant free kick finds Huth making a run into the box and he heads it home.
- Simple goal for Acquafresca, takes the pass from Popov and passes it into the back of goal.
- Tafer had to come off injured (49). Replaced by Baldock.
- A tough draw, but we'll take it. Stoke is always a hard place to go into and get three points.

Tafer Injured
Yannis Tafer is expected to miss 4-5 weeks with a sprained ankle.

21/09/13 – Premier League Match Day #5
West Ham United 1 – 0 Wigan Athletic
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (77)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/7, Wigan 8/2
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Marcq (Y 21), Gibson (Y 41), Noble (Y 62) Wigan: Gentsoglou (Y 79)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Stockdale 7.4, De Silvestri 7.3, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 8.1, Fabio 7.0, Marcq 7.3, Gibson 6.9, Noble (off 69) 6.6, Popov 7.7, Acquafresca (off 66) 6.5, Cole 6.4, Fleck (on 66) 6.8, Baldock (on 66) 6.7

Notes:
- Our first match against one of the Premier League new boys.
- Drab first half, we struggled to get much going, Wigan had a number of corners.
- Popov corner goes long, Stambouli heads it to the far post, Tomkins heads it home.

24/09/13 – Carling Cup (third round)
Stoke City 1 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: Stoke: Walters (69)
Shots/On Target: Stoke 14/6, West Ham 6/1
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Stoke: Woodgate (Y 41), Huth (Y 44), Palacios (Y 65)
Man of the Match: Jon Walters

Form: Stockdale 6.8, Spence 6.8, Stambouli 7.3, Tomkins 6.7, Aldrete 6.8, Gosling 6.8, Collison 6.7, Anakoglou 6.9, Fleck 6.8, Lansbury (off 60) 6.0, Cole 6.8, Baldock (on 60) 6.5

Notes:
- Collison and Anakoglou making their debuts for the club. Also giving a start to U18 forward George Lansbury
- Jordan Spence concedes a penalty, David Stockdale saves Ben Watson's attempt.
- Our Carling Cup run is rather short lived.

28/09/13 – Premier League Match Day #6
Newcastle United 1 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: Newcastle: Coloccini (32) West Ham: Acquafresca (4, 34), Cole (8), Stambouli (25), Fabio (54)
Shots/On Target: Newcastle: 8/4, West Ham: 14/12
Possession: Newcastle: 54/46
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: Bolat 7.5, De Silvestri 7.5, Stambouli 8.5, Tomkins 7.3, Fabio (off 75) 9.0, Marcq 7.7, Gibson 7.1, Noble (off 75) 8.2, Popov 8.6, Cole 9.1, Acquafresca 8.8, Aldrete (on 75) 6.6, Fleck (on 75) 6.6

Notes:
- Terrific start. Fabio whips a ball into the center of the box, Acquafresca runs onto it with his head.
- Fabio assisting again, sending another cross into the box, Cole's initial shot is saved by Krul, but he pounces on the rebound and taps it home.
- Stambouli gets his first goal on a far post header from Noble's corner.
- Acquafresca's second comes off a rebound when Krul failed to handle Popov's direct shot.
- Fabio is streaking down the left wing when Carlton Cole picks him out. Fabio has only Krul to beat and does.
- Fabio comes off injured (75).

Fabio Knock
Fabio will miss 9-11 days with a thigh strain.

01/10/13 – September In Review
Training Report
Among the senior players, Dimitris Anakoglou (aerobic), Dan Gosling (tactics) and Frank Nouble (tactics) have been impressing on the training pitch. However, there have been concerns about the progress of Winston Reid (strength), Darron Gibson (tactics) and Robert Acquafresca (tactics)

Board Confidence
The board is very pleased with the overall leadership at the club. The highlight is still the 3-1 victory over Chelsea. Despite the positives, the fans are upset at the 1-0 Carling Cup loss to Stoke City. The club recorded a loss of £1.86m last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptStats-1.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptTable-1.png

06/10/13 – Premier League Match Day #7
West Ham United 1 – 1 Arsenal
Goals: West Ham: Cole (90+2) Arsenal: Chu-Young (90+3)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 18/6, Arsenal 13/5
Possession: 50/50
Man of the Match: Ivelin Popov

Form: Bolat 6.8, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 7.2, Aldrete 6.5, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 6.8, Noble (off 45) 6.7, Popov 7.7, Cole 7.2, Acquafresca 5.3, Spence (on 9) 6.8, Fleck (on 45) 6.6

Notes:
- Lorenzo De Silvestri had to come off injured (8).
- It took more than 90 minutes, but we finally broke through.
- And we give it away as late as humanly possible.

De Silvestri Blow
Lorenzo De Silvestri has suffered a damaged spine and will be out of action for up to two months.

Alberto Niculescu and Ritchie De Laet have returned to full training.

14/10/13 – News
Tafer Back
Yannis Tafer has begun full training following his recovery from a sprained ankle.

20/10/13 – Premier League Match Day #8
Birmingham City 2 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: Brum: Zigic (pen 35), Stambouli (o.g. 43) West Ham: Spence (4), Cole (45+2), Acquafresca (46, 75), Collison (83)
Shots/On Target: Brum 11/4, West Ham 19/9
Possession: Brum 57/43
Cautions: Brum: Ridgewell (Y 14), Finnbogason (Y 83) West Ham: Marcq (Y 26), Fabio (Y 27), Cole (Y 89)
Man of the Match: Jack Collison

Form: Bolat 7.1, Spence 9.1, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 7.0, Fabio 7.9, Marcq (off 45) 5.3, Collison 9.2, Noble 7.0, Popov 7.4, Cole 7.8, Acquafresca 8.8, Gosling (on 45) 6.9

Notes:
- Sunday lunch time kick-off, live on the telly.
- Another match, another quick start. Cole gets the ball to Spence, Hochstrasser tries to dispossess him the box, Spence gets around it and fires it home.
- Damien Marcq concedes a penalty.
- Stambouli gives away his second own goal of the season.
- Jack Collison sent in a neat pass to release Cole who applied the finish.
- Collison found Acquafresca splitting the defenders, one on one with Ben Foster, easy goal.
- Spence finds Collison lurking in the box, slides the ball over to him and Collison lets loose.

22/10/13 – Awards
Four Named
Fabio, Jordan Spence, Jack Collison and Robert Acquafresca were named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

26/10/13 – Premier League Match Day #9
West Ham United 4 – 1 West Brom Albion
Goals: West Ham: Fabio (31), Acquafresca (46), Steele (o.g. 55), Noble (pen 69) WBA: Valbuena (59)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 21/9, WBA 9/4
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: WBA: Enevoldsen (Y 2), Stoor (Y 29), Valbuena (Y 75)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 7.3, Stambouli 7.3, Tomkins 7.6, Fabio (off 64) 7.9, Gosling 7.1, Collison (off 64) 6.9, Noble 8.5, Popov 7.4, Cole (off 64) 6.9, Acquafresca 7.7, De Laet (on 64) 6.5, Tafer (on 64) 6.9, Gibson (on 64) 6.9

Notes:
- Mark Noble picks out Fabio making a run into the box as if he were a forward. Fabio with a neat finish to put us up.
- Second straight match that Acquafresca has scored a minute into the second half. Lots of bodies in the box, Robert is the only one who can get a foot onto it.
- West Brom's keeper gifts us our third from a Mark Noble corner.
- WBA's diminutive midfielder heads one home to pull one back for the visitors.
- Jonas Olsson fouls Yannis Tafer going for a header, Noble finishes off the penalty.

01/11/13 – October In Review
Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is very pleased with the overall leadership of the club. The capture of Benjamin Stambouli, who the fans believe to be an extremely good player, has been particularly pleasing. Despite the positives, the 1-0 Carling Cup defeat to Stoke City cannot be ignored and the fans have voiced their discontent as a result. The club recorded a loss of £741k last month.

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctPlayerStats-1.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctoberTable-1.png

04/11/13 – Premier League Match Day #10
Fulham 0 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (6, 45), Tafer (54), Acquafresca (67, 80)
Shots/On Target: Fulham 14/4, West Ham 17/9
Possession: Fulham 55/45
Cautions: Fulham: Inkoom (Y 10)
Man of the Match: Ivelin Popov

Form: Bolat 7.2, Spence (off 60) 7.4, Stambouli 8.1, Tomkins 7.8, Fabio 8.7, Marcq 7.8, Collison 7.2, Noble (off 60) 7.9, Popov 9.0, Cole (off 45) 8.7, Acquafresca 8.9, De Laet (on 60) 6.9, Fleck (on 60) 6.9, Tafer (on 45) 7.5

Notes:
- Monday evening on prime time television.
- Another quick start. Popov finds Cole all alone heading toward the box and the forward finishes the move.
- Cole second is a true poacher's effort. Popov fed Acquafresca, his shot was parried into the feet of Cole for the goal.
- Cole had taken a couple of knocks through the half and was taken off for Yannis Tafer.
- Tafer's goal began when Acquafresca moved the ball outside to Fabio who then crossed in between three defenders for the young Frenchman.
- A 3 on none counter attack, Acquafresca didn't need any help to score this one.
- More brilliance in the final third. Popov took a long ball from Collison who centered it for Acquafresca, he volleyed it home.
- We have scored 20 goals in our last five matches since losing to Stoke in the Carling Cup. 19 of those goals in four wins.

06/11/13 – Awards
Fabio, Benjamin Stambouli and Ivelin Popov have been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

09/11/13 – Premier League Match Day #11
West Ham United 0 – 1 Everton
Goals: Everton: Vela (89)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/3, Everton 13/5
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Everton: Heitinga (Y 21)
Man of the Match: Leighton Baines

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.3, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 7.2, Fabio 6.9, Marcq 7.0, Collison (off 63) 6.7, Noble (off 63) 6.6, Popov 6.9, Acquafresca (off 63) 6.1, Cole 6.7, Fleck (on 63) 6.5, Tafer (on 63) 6.7, Gibson (on 63) 6.7

Notes:
- Acquafresca had a goal called offside right at the death of the first half. It was close, but replays showed he was just off.
- We made a trio of subs at 63' to try and break the deadlock.
- Leighton Baines played a terrific long ball to find Carlos Vela alone and heading toward the box. Easy finish for three points.

23/11/13 – Premier League Match Day #12
Manchester City 3 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: City: Ganso (26), Aguero (30), Dzeko (86) West Ham: Acquafresca (66), Tafer (80)
Shots/On Target: City 17/7, West Ham 7/2
Possession: City 58/42
Cautions: City: Bocchetti (Y 51), Clichy (R 83) West Ham: Marcq (Y 12), Stambouli (Y 90+2)
Man of the Match: Sergio Aguero

Form: Bolat 6.6, Spence 6.9, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 6.0, Fabio 6.7, Marcq 6.9, Collison (off 45) 6.0, Noble (off 45) 6.1, Popov 6.7, Cole (off 45) 6.0, Acquafresca 7.2, Fleck (on 45) 6.8, Tafer (on 45) 7.2, Gibson (on 45) 6.9

Notes:
- Ganso opens the scoring with a brilliant 35 yard shot.
- Aguero doubles the City lead shortly after. Nasri picks him out with a sublime pass and he beats Bolat near corner.
- We use all three subs at half time to try and find a way back into this mess.
- Acquafresca pulls one back with a neat finish after stealing the ball from Zabaleta.
- Yannis Tafer equalizes when a Spence cross hits a City player and bounces straight to his feet.
- Our lead is short lived as Aguero finds Dzeko and he doesn't miss from 25 yards.

30/11/13 – Premier League Match Day #13
West Ham United 1 – 0 Norwich City
Goals: West Ham: Collison (41)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/3, Norwich 8/2
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: West Ham: Marcq (Y 57), Fabio (Y 70)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: Bolat 6.7, Spence 7.4, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 7.4, Fabio 7.5, Marcq (off 64) 6.8, Collison 7.3, Noble 7.7, Popov (off 40) 6.5, Acquafresca (off 64) 6.8, Cole 7.0, Gosling (on 64) 6.5, Fleck (on 40) 6.8, Tafer (on 64) 6.7

Notes:
- Ivelin Popov suffered an injury (40) and was replaced by John Fleck.
- Mark Noble takes a free kick from 60 yards out, hits Collison wide open in the box, he slots it past the keeper with ease.

Popov Blow
Ivelin Popov is set to miss up to a month of action after having his ribs broken in a strong challenge from Norwich's Russell Martin.

01/12/13 – November In Review
West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovStats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovTable-1.png

You seem to like french players !

You seem to like french players !

They always produce for me! I'm a big fan of Ligue 1 as well, so I'm kind of drawn to the French players a bit.

07/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #14
Blackburn Rovers 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Stambouli (24)
Shots/On Target: Rovers 16/5, West Ham 13/4
Possession: Rovers 54/46
Cautions: Rovers: Diane (Y 7), Rochina (Y 10) West Ham: Cole (Y 73)
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: Bolat 7.2, Spence 7.2, Stambouli 8.0, Tomkins 6.9, Fabio 7.2, Marcq 7.2, Collison 6.9, Noble (off 45) 7.2, Fleck 6.8, Cole 6.9, Acquafresca 6.0, Anakoglou (on 45) 6.6

Notes:
- Stambouli connects on Noble's corner at the far post.
- Noble was subbed off at half time. He took a knock just before the whistle.

09/12/13 – FA Cup Draw
We will travel to either Yeovil or Preston for the third round of the FA Cup.

14/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #15
Sheffield United 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Sheff: Evans (86) West Ham: Cole (26), Fleck (47)
Shots/On Target: Sheff 9/5, West Ham 16/4
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Sheff: Concha (Y 65) West Ham: (Y 25), Gibson (Y 32), Cole (Y 53)
Man of the Match: Jordan Spence

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 8.1, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 7.6, Fabio (off 64) 6.9, Marcq 7.2, Collison (off 64) 6.9, Noble (off 14) 6.6, Fleck 7.3, Cole 7.3, Acquafresca 6.8, De Laet (on 64) 6.8, Gibson (on 14) 6.9, Anakoglou (on 64) 6.7

Notes:
- This match is televised, Sunday 13:30 kick-off.
- Mark Noble picked up an early knock and was replaced by Darron Gibson.
- Fleck scores a ridiculous 30 yard free kick from the right side of goal, the shot hits the underside of the crossbar and goes in.
- Ched Evans pulls one back when he lost his marker.

Noble Knocked
Mark Noble suffered a damaged elbow after falling heavily early in the match with Sheffield United. He will be out for 9-11 days while he recovers.

17/12/13 – Awards
Jordan Spence has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

18/12/13 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham United will face Yeovil Town at Huish Park on 4th January 2014 in the third round of the FA Cup.

23/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #16
Tottenham Hotspur 1 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: Spurs: Bale (22)
Shots/On Target: Spurs 12/3, West Ham 8/3
Possession: Spurs 56/44
Cautions: Spurs; Dawson (Y 56), West Ham: Stambouli (Y 13)
Man of the Match: Gareth Bale

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.3, Stambouli 6.7, Tomkins 7.3, Fabio 6.8, Marcq 6.7, Collison 6.8, Gibson 6.8, Fleck 6.9, Cole (off 45) 5.9, Acquafresca 6.7, Tafer (on 45) 6.1

Notes:
- Monday evening in prime time. Televised yet again, this time it's the London derby.
- Bale gets the first of the match, heading home a corner.
- Fabio brings down Niakhaichyk in the box, conceding a penalty, which Bolat saved low.
- We had a late flurry on goal, Gomes stopped everything in sight.

26/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #17
West Ham United 2 – 0 Leicester City
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (78, 85)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 10/3, Leicester 10/1
Possession: Leicester 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Anakoglou (Y 55) Leicester: Rodallega (Y 56), Mills (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Yannis Tafer

Form: Bolat 6.9, De Silvestri 7.8, Stambouli 7.3, Tomkins 7.2, De Laet 7.2, Gosling 6.9, Collison 7.0, Anakoglou 8.2, Fleck 6.9, Cole (off 66) 6.5, Acquafresca (off 66) 6.1, Tafer (on 66) 8.6, Piquionne (on 66) 6.9

Notes:
- Those pesky Foxes. Can we finally beat them?
- The breakthrough finally comes when Anakoglou steals the ball from Pantsil, passing to Tafer who was in the spot vacated by the Leicester fullback.
- Oh the counter. Stambouli gets it to Piquionne, who slides it across for Tafer streaking into the box.
- This is the first time in five encounters that we have beaten Leicester City.

28/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #18
West Ham United 2 – 0 Aston Villa
Goals: West Ham: Gibson (19, 63)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/7, Villa 7/2
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Fabio (Y 3), Tomkins (Y 55), Noble (Y 67) Villa: Makoun (Y 69), Fer (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: Bolat 6.9, Stambouli 7.4, Tomkins 7.2, Spence 7.7, Marcq 7.0, Noble 6.9, Gibson 9.1, Fleck 7.3, Cole 6.8, Acquafresca 6.8, De Silvestri (on 4) 7.1

Notes:
- Fabio is taken off injured just three minutes in.
- Fleck dribbled around the outside of the box, made a pivot passed it to Gibson on the left who came in and blasted one into the back of the net.
- Gibson's second was a typical scintillating 30 yard rocket from the right side to the top left corner of goal.

Fabio Knocked
Fabio suffered a damaged neck after jumping for a ball during the match with Aston Villa. The fullback is expected to miss up to two weeks with the injury.

30/12/13 – Premier League Match Day #19
Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 – 0 West Ham United
Shots/On Target: Wolves 16/4, West Ham 11/4
Possession: Wolves 52/48
Cautions: Wolves: Muamba (Y 37), Zubar (Y 83)
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.2, Stambouli 7.7, Tomkins 7.1, De Laet 7.3, Marcq 7.0, Collison 6.7, Gibson 6.6, Popov 6.9, Tafer 6.4, Acquafresca 6.7

Notes:
- Yannis Tafer had a goal ruled offside (70).

Anakoglou Honored
Dimitris Anakoglou has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

01/01/14 – December In Review
West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecStats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecTable-2.png

01/01/14 – Premier League Match Day #20
Chelsea 2 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Chelsea: Torres (8, 84) West Ham: Fleck (6), Tafer (39), Tomkins (45+1)
Shots/On Target: Chelsea 19/7, West Ham 10/4
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: Chelsea: Luiz (Y 50), Lukaku (Y 86) West Ham: De Silvestri (Y 4), Stambouli (Y 26)
Man of the Match: Fernando Torres

Form: Bolat 6.8, De Silvestri 7.0, Stambouli 6.3, Tomkins 8.3, Aldrete 7.1, Gosling 7.1, Noble 7.0, Anakoglou 6.9, Fleck 7.4, Tafer 8.3, Cole 6.8

Notes:
- Brilliant start on the counter. Tafer finds Fleck making a run through the defense and it's an easy finish.
- Luiz finds Torres on a long ball, the Spaniard beats the defense and Bolat to knot the game up at one.
- Tafer gives us the lead back with a fantastic left footed finish from the outside of the box.
- Tomkins gets one in stoppage on a header from Mark Noble's corner.
- Bolat makes a save but can't handle it and Torres nabs it and finishes.

04/01/14 – FA Cup (third round)
Yeovil Town 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: De Laet (45)
Shots/On Target: Yeovil 4/0, West Ham 17/2
Possession: West Ham 68/32
Cautions: West Ham: Stambouli (Y 77)
Man of the Match: Ritchie De Laet

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 8.0, Stambouli 7.4, De Laet 8.7, Aldrete 7.5, Marcq 7.0, Collison 6.8, Gibson 6.9, Popov 6.9, Cole 6.9, Acquafresca 6.3

Notes:
- We completely dominated the first half, but it took until the closing minute for - De Laet to put us through with a thundering 25 yard shot.
- Yeovil Town can certainly be proud of the effort they put in against us today.
- We have been awarded £68,850 for the victory.

05/01/14 – Player News
Olympique Lyonnair have lodged a £4.9m bid for Fabio which we have quickly moved to reject.

06/01/14 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham will host Fulham in the fourth round of the FA Cup. The match will be played on 1st February at The Boleyn Ground

07/01/14 – Awards
James Tomkins has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

08/01/14 – Player News
Newcastle have had a £2.8m bid for Carlton Cole rejected.

AC Milan have had a £6m bid for Fabio rejected.

09/01/14 – Injury News
Wanted fullback Fabio has returned to training after missing 12 days with a damaged neck.

12/01/14 – Premier League Match Day #21
West Ham United 2 – 1 Liverpool
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (20), Tomkins (28) Liverpool: Suarez (76)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/9, Liverpool 15/6
Possession: Liverpool 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Popov (Y 69), Suarez (Y 2), Astory (Y 59), Leiva (Y 72)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Bolat 6.6, Spence 6.9, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 8.2, Fabio 7.2, Marcq 6.9, Collison 6.9, Noble 7.5, Popov 6.9, Tafer 7.5, Cole 6.8

Notes:
- Sunday evening we're on television again.
- Tafer's initial shot is saved by Reina, but bounces right back to the forward.
- Tomkins scores a header from Mark Noble's corner.
- Unlucky for us, Fabio tries to clear and the ball strikes a player, bouncing backwards right to Suarez in front of goal.

19/01/14 – Premier League Match Day #22
Manchester United 3 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: United: Hernandez (18), Bale (24), Hulk (34)
Shots/On Target: United 17/8 West Ham 11/7
Possession: United 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Marcq (Y 11), Spence (Y 84)
Man of the Match: David De Gea

Form: Bolat 7.4, Spence 6.9, Stambouli 6.6, Tomkins 6.9, Fabio 6.0, Marcq 6.8, Collison (off 45) 5.8,. Noble 6.8, Popov (off 45) 5.8, Tafer 6.5, Cole (off 45) 6.2, Fleck (on 45) 6.7, Gibson (on 45) 6.6, Acquafresca (on 45) 6.1

Notes:
- Sunday afternoon television slot for the second match in a row.
- Poor defending on the counter leaves Rooney with his choice to cross to any of four players. He picks Hernandez who finishes with ease.
- United's shiny new signing Gareth Bale (£32m) gets the second off a corner.
- Hulk scores from the right edge of the box, blasting it top corner.
- Down three goals at the half, we use all of our subs to try and redeem something from the match.
- The effort was much better in the second half, but we never looked to be a threat to get back into the match.

25/01/14 – Premier League Match Day #23
West Ham United 0 – 1 Stoke City
Goals: Stoke: Wilson (38)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/3, Stoke 10/6
Possession: West Ham 58/42
Man of the Match: Wilson Palacios

Form: Bolat 7.2, Spence 7.3, Stambouli 7.5, Tomkins 7.1, Fabio 7.2, Marcq (off 66) 6.7, Collison 6.2, Noble 6.5, Fleck 6.7, Tafer 6.5, Acquafresca 6.6, Gibson (on 66) 6.5

Notes:
- Wilson beats us from a Pennant corner. Our struggles with Stoke are bizarre.

01/02/14 – January In Review
West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanStats-1.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/JanTable-2.png

01/02/14 – FA Cup (fourth round)
West Ham United 4 – 2 Fulham
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (21, 37), Fleck (31), Tomkins (63) Fulham: Jorgensen (70, 86)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 22/11, Fulham 9/4
Possession: Fulham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Spence (Y 43), Marcq (Y 44) Fulham: Schilder (Y 55)
Man of the Match: Nicolai Jorgensen

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 7.2, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 7.7, Fabio 6.9, Marcq 7.6, Gibson 7.7, Noble 7.2, Fleck 7.9, Tafer 6.8, Acquafresca 8.8

Notes:
- Acquafresca latches onto a long ball and slots it home.
- Fleck takes the pass from Darron Gibson, skips past Riise and beats the keeper.
- Fulham's high defensive line is killing them, Gibson picks out another killed ball and Acquafresca has an easy goal.
- Tomkins gets his usual headed goal from a Mark Noble corner.
- Both of Jorgensen's goal came from Boerrigter assists, crossing from the left to the right side of goal.
- West Ham have been awarded £91,810 for their victory.

03/02/14 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham United will play npower Championship side Sunderland in the FA Cup's fifth round. The match will be played at The Boleyn Ground on 22nd February.

05/02/14 – Premier League Match Day #24
Wigan Athletic 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Wigan: Wheater (74) West Ham: Popov (19), Acquafresca (33)
Shots/On Target: Wigan 6/2 West Ham 15/7
Possession: Wigan 51/49
Cautions: Wigan: McArthur (Y 50), Caldwell (Y 81), Wheater (Y 90+3) West Ham: Gibson (Y 52)
Man of the Match: Ivelin Popov

Form: Bolat 6.8, De Silvestri 6.9, Stambouli 7.1, Tomkins 7.2, Fabio 6.9, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 6.9, Noble 6.9, Popov 7.6, Tafer 7.4, Acquafresca 7.6

Notes:
- Ivelin Popov gets a goal after taking Fabio's pass and sliding it past the keeper.
- Tafer sprints down the left and centers for Acquafresca who is unmarked and has no trouble scoring.
- Wheater pulls one back for the hosts with a far post header through Henri Lansbury's corner.

08/02/14 – Premier League Match Day #25
West Ham United 1 – 1 Newcastle United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (78) Newcastle: Jonas (80)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/3, Newcastle 9/4
Possession: Newcastle 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Fleck (Y 25), De Laet (Y 88) Newcastle: Krohn-Dehli (Y 35), Jara (Y 61), Coloccini (Y 66), Cabaye (Y 84)
Man of the Match: Jonas

Form: Stockdale 7.0, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 6.9, De Laet 6.9, Marcq 6.9, Collison (off 65) 6.5, Anakoglou 6.6, Fleck (off 65) 6.0, Tafer (off 65) 6.7, Acquafresca (off 65) 6.2, Gibson (on 65) 6.9, Popov (on 65) 6.8, Cole (on 65) 7.2

Notes:
- We use our subs at 65' to try and make a breakthrough.
- One of those subs does so, Carlton Cole hits the top corner of the net with a great shot.
- We can't hold the lead and it's Jonas taking a long cross from Jara and heading home.

15/02/14 – Premier League Match Day #26
Arsenal 1 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: Arsneal: Torres (60)
Shots/On Target: Arsenal 13/3 West Ham 9/3
Possession: Arsenal 51/49
Cautions: Arsenal: Sagna (Y 44), Torres (Y 48), van Persie (Y 62), Song (R 77) West Ham: Noble (Y 54), Gosling (Y 71)
Man of the Match: Erick Torres

Form: Stockdale 6.8, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 6.6, Tomkins 7.3, Fabio 6.4, Gosling 6.7, Gibson 6.8, Noble (off 61) 5.6, Popov 6.7, Tafer 6.9, Cole (off 61) 6.0, Fleck (on 61) 6.7, Acquafresca (on 61) 6.7

Notes:
- Saturday evening kick-off, televised.
- Arsenal's £10m January signing Erick Torres gives his side the lead.

19/02/14 – Injury
Jack Collison is set to miss 3 weeks with a twisted ankle.

23/02/14 – FA Cup (fifth round)
West Ham United 2 – 3 Sunderland
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (31), Popov (39) Sunderland: Cristofi (50), Wickham (61), N'Gog (64)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 17/10, Sunderland 14/5
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Tafer (Y 66)
Man of the Match: Craig Gordon

Form: Stockdale 6.4, Spence 6.2, Stambouli 6.6, Tomkins 6.5, Fabio 6.6, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 6.6, Niculescu 6.7, Popov 8.0, Tafer 7.1, Cole 6.9

Notes:
- This one is televised.
- Yannis Tafer ends his long goal drought, splitting two defenders and finishing neatly.
- Popov doubles our lead getting on the end of a Fabio header that cleared the defenders.
- We're beaten by a header on a long throw. What are we playing Stoke?
- Connor Wickham levels the game after taking a pass from David N'Gog.
- Wow. Total meltdown over the course of 15 minutes.

01/03/14 – February In Review
West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/febstats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/febpremstats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Febtable-2.png

01/03/14 – Premier League Match Day #27
West Ham United 3 – 0 Birmingham City
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (9), Tafer (33), Tomkins (80)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 21/7, Brum 10/0
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: Brum: Rusescu (Y 64)
Man of the Match: Fabio

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 7.4, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 8.1, Fabio 8.7, Marcq 7.4, Noble 7.7, Niculescu 7.1, Fleck 6.3, Tafer 7.8, Acquafresca 8.3

Notes:
- Acquafresca steals the ball from the fullback and beats Ben Foster, all inside the six yard box.
- Always good when both our forwards are on the scoresheet. Tafer latches onto the end of a Fabio cross and slides it home.
- Tomkins get his goal from Mark Noble's corner. You would think teams would learn to mark him on corners.

02/03/14 – Carling Cup
Everton have won the Carling Cup by defeating Newcastle 3-2 in extra time.

07/03/14 – Awards
Fabio was named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

08/03/14 – Premier League Match Day #28
West Brom Albion 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (80)
Shots/On Target: WBA 12/6, West Ham 13/4
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Fabio (Y 42)
Man of the Match: Robert Acquafresca

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 7.2, Fabio 7.2, Marcq 7.2, Gibson 6.8, Noble (off 65) 6.9, Popov (off 65) 6.5, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 7.6, Fleck (on 65) 6.9, Niculescu (on 65) 6.9

Notes:
- We make a pair of subs 65' in to try and get the upper hand against a team we should be dominating.
- Acquafresca plays wide to Fleck, runs to the other side of the six yard box and heads home Fleck's cross. Brilliant work from the Italian forward.

10/03/14 – Injury
Jack Collison has returned to full training following 3 weeks out with a sprained ankle.

15/03/14 – Premier League Match Day #29
West Ham United 2 – 0 Fulham
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (86), Cole (90+3)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/9, Fulham 6/4
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 34) Fulham (Y 89)
Man of the Match: John Fleck

Form: Bolat 7.3, Spence 7.5, Stambouli 7.5, Tomkins 7.2, Fabio (off 55) 6.7, Marcq 7.5, Gibson 6.9, Noble (off 66) 6.7, Fleck 7.6, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca (off 66) 6.0, De Laet (on 55) 7.0, Niculescu (on 66) 6.9, Cole (on 66) 7.3

Notes:
- Neat passing between De Laet and Niculescu sets up Fleck from the left side of the box. His goal is reminiscent of the one he scored against United at the start of the year. A sizzler that Oscar Ustari had no hope in stopping.
- Carlton Cole salts away the three points with a nice exchange with Tafer, blasting it in from 20 yards out.

22/03/14 – Premier League Match Day #30
Everton 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Everton: Cisse (17) West Ham: Fleck (49, 80)
Shots/On Target: Everton 7/3, West Ham 18/7
Possession: Everton 54/46
Cautions: Everton: Vela (Y 83), Cahill (Y 90+2) West Ham: Spence (45+1)
Man of the Match: John Fleck

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.1, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 6.9, Fabio 7.0, Marcq 7.1, Noble (off 85) 6.9, Niculescu 7.1, Fleck 9.1, Tafer 7.7, Cole (off 76)

Notes:
- Papiss Cisse ends Bolat's shutout streak at 303 minutes.
- Fleck scores on a cross from Niculescu
- Fleck gives us the lead with another assist from Niculescu and a 25 yard blast into the top left corner of goal.
- Dan Gosling and Robert Acquafresca came on late and didn't record a rating.

Noble Blow
Mark Noble is set to miss 4-5 weeks after damaging knee cartilage.

25/03/14 – Awards
John Fleck has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

29/03/14 – Premier League Match Day #31
West Ham United 2 – 0 Manchester City
Goals: West Ham: Niculescu (12), Tafer (45)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 13/6, City 11/4
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: West Ham: Spence (Y 40), Stambouli (Y 56) City: Savic (Y 16), Clichy (Y 20), Badelj (Y 29), Aguero (Y 67)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: Bolat 7.2, Spence 7.2, Stambouli 7.3, Tomkins 7.5, Fabio 7.4, Marcq 7.0, Gibson 8.5, Niculescu 8.0, Fleck 6.9, Tafer 7.5, Acquafresca 6.9

Notes:
- Saturday evening prime time televised match. It's a big one.
- Alberto Niculescu's first senior goal is huge. The teenager drives it past Joe Hart from just inside the top of the 18.
- Yannis Tafer gets on the end of the long ball leaving him one-on-one with Joe Hart. The England keeper is rounded and Tafer applies a nice finish.
- Massive, massive victory. Immense.

01/04/14 – March In Review
West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchStats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MarchTable-2.png

05/04/14 – Premier League Match Day #32
West Ham United 2 – 1 Blackburn Rovers
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (49), Robinson (o.g. 54) Rovers: Rochina (35)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 13/3, Rovers 18/6
Possession: Rovers 53/47
Cautions: Rovers: Hoilett (Y 53)
Man of the Match: John Fleck

Form: Bolat 6.7, Spence (off 66) 6.9, Stambouli 6.9, Tomkins 7.2, Fabio (off 66) 6.9, Marcq 7.0, Gibson 6.9, Niculescu 6.9, Fleck 7.3, Tafer 7.2, Acquafresca (off 66) 6.8, De Silvestri (on 66) 6.8, De Laet (on 66) 6.8, Cole (on 66) 6.7

Notes:
- Rochina gets in behind the defense and has an easy go at goal.
- Yannis Tafer works in between defenders, taking John Fleck's pass and beating Paul Robinson to level the match.
- Fleck rockets a shot on goal that hits the bar and deflects off Paul Robinson's back. We'll take that one.

12/04/14 – Premier League Match Day #33
Norwich City 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (7)
Shots/On Target: Norwich 11/0, West Ham 12/7
Possession: Norwich 55/45
Cautions: Norwich: Vaughan (Y 15), Buljat (Y 41), Latovlevici (Y 52), Dawson (Y 84), West Ham: Acquafresca (Y 33), Tomkins (Y 88)
Man of the Match: Jordan Spence

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.9, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 7.1, Fabio 7.2, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 6.9, Niculescu 6.9, Fleck 6.9, Tafer 7.0, Acquafresca 7.2

Notes:
- Jordan Spence crosses low and the Norwich keeper deflects it right onto Acquafresca's foot for an easy finish.
- We eke out a win against a game Norwich side to keep a stranglehold on a top three finish.

15/04/14 – Awards
Jordan Spence has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

21/04/14 – Premier League Match Day #34
West Ham United 1 – 1 Sheffield United
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (3) Sheff: Evans (22)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/7, Sheff 7/2
Possession: West Ham 52/48
Cautions: Sheff: Mee (Y 45+1), Montgomery (Y 90+2)
Man of the Match: John Fleck

Form: Bolat 6.9, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 6.4, Tomkins 7.0, Fabio 6.9, Marcq 7.0, Gibson 7.1, Niculescu 6.7, Fleck 7.6, Tafer 6.1, Acquafresca 6.8

Notes:
- This match was moved to Monday night to be placed on television.
- John Fleck has turned it on since the beginning of March. He takes a throw in from Gibson, makes a nifty pivot and fires into the back of goal.
- Evans gets a free release on a free kick and heads home.
- Not a good draw to take.

23/04/14 – Injury News
Mark Noble has returned to full training after missing four weeks with damaged knee cartilage.

26/04/14 – Premier League Match Day #35
Leicester City 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Leicester: Rodallega (14) West Ham: Tafer (8)
Shots/On Target: Leicester 11/4, West Ham 10/2
Possession: Leicester 56/44
Cautions: Leicester: Reo-Coker (Y 84) West Ham: Tafer (Y 55)
Man of the Match: Kennedy

Form: Bolat 6.7, Spence 7.4, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins 6.8, Fabio 6.9, Marcq 6.8, Niculescu (off 45) 6.5, Gibson 6.8, Fleck (off 45) 6.2, Tafer 7.2, Acquafresca (off 45) 5.8, Popov (on 45) 6.0, Collison (on 45) 6.5, Cole (on 45) 6.6

Notes:
- Yannis Tafer gets us out to a quick start against our dogged rivals.
- Kennedy finds Rodallega alone in the box and the Colombian finishes to level the match.
- We're playing pretty poorly and make a trio of subs at the half to try and get back on the front foot.


With just three matches left, I'll post the stats and table at the end of the season.

03/05/14 – Premier League Match Day #36
West Ham United 3 – 1 Tottenham Hotspur
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (pen 13, 17), Fleck (79) Spurs: Welbeck (35)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 20/7, Spurs 8/4
Possession: West Ham: 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Fabio (Y 59), Spurs: Corchia (Y 43)
Man of the Match: Robert Acquafresca

Form: Bolat 7.0, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 7.1, Tomkins 7.1, Fabio 7.0, Marcq 8.0, Gibson 7.6, Niculescu 6.9, Fleck 8.3, Tafer 6.9, Acquafresca 8.6

Notes:
- Tom Huddlestone concedes a penalty by bringing down Darron Gibson. Acquafresca converts.
- The Italian makes his brace and doubles the lead after latching on to a long ball and rounding Gomes, leaving the goal wide open.
- Danny Welbeck steals the ball from Stambouli and easily slots it past Bolat.
- John Fleck. Forty yards out. Money.

Relegation
Wigan Athletic, West Brom and Sheffield United have all been relegated to the npower Championship.

Champions League
West Ham United have secured a top three finish and will participate in next season's Champions League.

06/05/14 – Awards
John Fleck and Robert Acquafresca have been selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

07/05/14 – Premier League Match Day #37
Aston Villa 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Villa: Delfouneso (65) West Ham: Acquafresca (pen 53)
Shots/On Target: Villa 11/6, West Ham 13/5
Possession: Villa 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Niculescu (Y 39)
Man of the Match: Ciaran Clark

Form: Bolat 7.0, Spence (off 60) 6.7, Stambouli 7.0, Tomkins 7.1, Fabio 7.0, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 6.9, Niculescu 6.8, Fleck 6.9, Tafer (off 60) 6.1, Acquafresca 6.7, De Laet (on 60) 6.8, Cole (on 60) 6.5

Notes:
- Tough draw, was really hoping to win to move into the driver's seat for second.


10/05/14 – ter Stegen Signs
West Ham United have announced they will sign German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen on a free transfer on 1st July.

FA Cup Final
Aston Villa have defeated Sunderland 2-1 in extra time to win the FA Cup.

18/05/14 – Premier League Match Day #38
West Ham United 1 – 0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (57)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 16/3, Wolves 9/0
Possession: West Ham 55/45
Cautions: Wolves; Ilso (Y 53)
Man of the Match: James Tomkins

Form: Bolat 6.8, Spence 7.0, Stambouli 7.2, Tomkins 7.4, Fabio 7.3, Marcq 7.0, Gibson 6.9, Noble 7.4, Fleck 6.8, Tafer 7.2, Acquafresca 6.1

Notes:
- Yannis Tafer beats everybody into the box, and then beats the keeper.

Season In Quick Review
Final West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalStats-1.png

Final Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalPremStats-1.png

Final Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/FinalTable-2.png

18/05/14 – News
West Ham Payouts
West Ham United have been given £15.2m for their final position in the Premier League.

The club have paid out £1.3m to be shared among the squad on a pro-rata basis after finishing as runner-up in the Premier League.

The second place finish represents a record high for West Ham.

19/05/14 – Awards
Manager of the Year: Otto Kafka – West Ham United
Footballer of the Year: Hulk – Manchester United
Players' Player of the Year: Gareth Bale – Manchester United
Players' Young Player of the Year: Andriy Yarmolenko – Liverpool
Golden Gloves: David De Gea – Manchester United
Top Goalscorer: Sergio 'Kun' Aguero – Manchester City

Vacation
The squad has gone on vacation until pre-seaoson begins on 7th July.

27/05/14 – News
Carr Retires
Long-serving coach Tony Carr has retired. Carr was a loyal servant to the club and his presence at the club will undoubtedly be missed.

Managers Retire
Leicester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, Newcastle United manager Roy Hodgson, Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish and Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp have all retired.

01/06/14 – News
Sponsorship Deals / Injection / Initial Budget
West Ham have announced a new 5 year sponsorship deal worth £275k per annum.

We have also added an additional new kit sponsor. The two year deal is estimated to be worth £2.2m, an increase over the previous £1.25m deal.

We have added a third new kit sponsor, the two year deal worth £1.3m, up over the previous deal of £226k.

Chairman David Sullivan has loaned the club £2m to help with the club's running costs.

The board have set the initial payroll for the season at £650k per week and the transfer budget at £22.15m

Board Confidence
To summarize, the board is delighted with the leadership qualities being demonstrated. The team's fantastic overall performance in the Premier League has been the highlight. Despite this, the board is slightly disappointed with the club's FA Cup run.

03/06/14 – News
Piquionne Announces Retirement
Frederic Piquionne has announced he will retire on 30th June. He struggled to break into the first team during the last season and feels it is time to call it a day.

We will look to try and sign him on as a coach.

Liverpool Sign Gatting
Liverpool have appointed West Ham's Steve Gatting as a coach. West Ham will be compensated £70k as part of the deal.

08/06/14 – News
Stoke Sign Horvath
Stoke have appointed West Ham's Steve Gatting as a coach. West Ham will be compensated £90k as part of the deal.

24/06/14 – Prem / Champo Review
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeasonReview-1.png

25/06/14 – Hammers News
Fans' Player of the Year
Jordan Spence has been named West Ham's Player of the Year by the fans.

Best Eleven
West Ham's Best Eleven was...
GK: Sinan Bolat
DL: Fabio
DC: Benjamin Stambouli, James Tomkins
DR: Jordan Spence
DMC: Damien Marcq
MC: Mark Noble, Darron Gibson
AMC: John Fleck
ST: Robert Acquafresca, Yannis Tafer

Overall Best Eleven
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/BestXI.png

TV Rights / Board Expectations
West Ham will receive £40m for Premier League TV rights over the upcoming season.

The minimum expectation is that the club qualifies for the Europa League.

01/07/14 – Comings...
West Ham United have snapped up goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen from Gladbach on a free transfer. The keeper was named runner up in the German Players' Goalkeeper of the Year for 2013/14. The youngster has described his move to West Ham as the 'best moment in his life.' He hopes to get off to a good start at The Boleyn Ground and make himself a firm favorite with the club's fans.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/MAtS.png

And Goings...
West Ham have sold fullback Adrian Aldrete to Stuttgart for £2.2m.

West Ham have sold centre-bacl Winston Reid to Hamburger SV for £750k.

West Ham have sold fullback Lorenzo De Silvestri to Malaga for £2.2m

02/07/14 – Contract News
James Tomkins has sealed a four year £9m contract with the club.

Ritchie De Laet has signed a new three year deal worth £4m.

08/07/14 – Player News
Stockdale Loaned Out
David Stockdale has joined Liverpool on season long loan for a fee of £500k.

09/07/14 – Player News
Hammers Snap Up Lescott
West Ham United have signed Joleon Lescott on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired. The veteran defender is expected to provide cover on the left side and in the center of the defense.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Lescott.png

11/07/14 – Player News
Altidore Can't Wait To Go
West Ham have splashed the cash on AZ's Jozy Altidore, signing the American forward for £7.25m. Altidore made 41 appearances for the Dutch club, scoring 21 goals. Altidore is hoping he will be able to play an influential role at his new club and has said that he is delighted to play for such a big club. He hopes to repay the faith shown in him by West Ham manager Otto Kafka.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Altidore.png

To be fair, I found the awesomeness that is MAtS.

Impressive showing for the hammers so far!

To be fair, I found the awesomeness that is MAtS.

Impressive showing for the hammers so far!

That you did. He may be the greatest free transfer of all time.

Way to give some love to the American, also

12/07/14 – World Cup News
Argentina defeat England 2-1 in the World Cup third place match.

Friendly
Barrow 0 – 3 West Ham United

Noble Knock
Mark Noble has sustained a twisted ankle and will miss up to three weeks while being treated.

14/07/14 – World Cup News
France have won the 2014 World Cup, defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final.

France have won two straight international tournaments, including Euro 2012.

Youngster Joins Hammers
West Ham have signed Steve Alexandre from FC Istres on a free transfer, paying his former club a £30,000 compensation fee. The sixteen year old attacking midfielder has declared his move to The Boleyn Ground is a 'dream come true' and told the press that when a club like West Ham shows interest in you and then make a bid it's a fantastic compliment for any player.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Alexandre.png

16/07/14 – Friendly
Doncaster Rovers 1 – 4 West Ham United

17/07/14 – Player News
Hammers Continue Youth Influx
West Ham United have snapped up promising midfielder Stathis Christopoulos from Atromitos on a free transfer. The Greek club will receive a compensation fee of £600k as part of the deal. The youngster has called the move a 'dream come true' and has said he can't wait to get to work under manager Otto Kafka.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Christopoulos.png

18/07/14 – Friendly
West Ham United 3 – 1 Pachuca CF

21/07/14 – Friendly
Forfar Athletic 0 – 5 West Ham United

02/08/14 – Friendly
West Ham United 0 – 0 Rayo Vallecano SAD

Spence Injured
Jordan Spence has sustained torn ankle ligaments and will visit a specialist. The fullback is expected to miss 5-6 weeks with the injury.

08/08/14 – News
Lescott Knocked
Joleon Lescott will miss 9-11 days with a damaged elbow.

17/08/14 – First Team
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/firstteam-3.png

17/08/14 – Premier League Match Day #1
Aston Villa 1 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: Villa: ter Stegen (o.g. 77), West Ham: Fleck (31), Altidore (37, 73), Collison (57), Stambouli (90)
Shots/On Target: Villa 17/3, West Ham 17/8
Possession: Villa 51/49
Cautions: Villa: Lejeune (Y 23)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: ter Stegen 7.2, Martin 7.3, Stambouli 8.1, Tomkins 7.7, Fabio (off 68) 7.4, Marcq 7.4, Noble (off 45) 6.9, Gibson 7.1, Fleck (off 68) 8.8, Altidore 8.8, Cole 9.1, Popov (on 68) 6.9, De Laet (on 68) 6.6, Collison (on 45) 7.4

Notes:
- We're on television for our season opener. Sunday afternoon kick-off.
- Fleck opens the season account with a curling free kick from 25 yards.
- Jozy Altidore opens his club account, charging into the box after taking a slick ball from Carlton Cole.
- Jack Collison comes on as a second half sub, makes a great run between the defence and puts home the shot from Fleck's superb assist.
- Altidore nabs a second as De Laet throws in to Cole along the touchline. Cole crosses it near post for Jozy who taps it past Guzan.
- Tough own goal for ter Stegen. Agbonlahor launches a shot from 35 yards that hits the post and deflects back in off the keeper's back.
- Popov sends in a free kick from the left, Stambouli heads at the right post, Guzan saves, but the rebound comes back to the defender who only has to pass it into the back of goal.
- Cole assisted on three of our five goals.
- A fantastic road performance to open the season.

Season Ticket Sales
West Ham United have announced the final sales figures for season tickets. The ticket office has confirmed the club has sold 26,085 season tickets for this season which is an increase over last year's 23,912 sold.

19/08/14 – Awards
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Benjamin Stambouli and Carlton Cole were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

20/08/14 – Injury News
Stathis Christopoulos suffered a twisted knee during the match with the Norwich reserves. The midfielder is expected to miss up to two weeks with the injury.

Compatriot Dimitris Anakoglou is set to miss up to a month after fracturing his arm in the same match.

23/08/14 – Premier League Match Day #2
West Ham United 0 – 0 Newcastle United
Shots/On Target: West Ham 18/4, Newcastle 11/3
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Cautions: Newcastle: Jara (R 24)
Man of the Match: Tim Krul

Form: ter Stegen 6.8, Martin 7.4, Marcq (off 43) 6.7, Tomkins 7.1, Fabio 6.8, Stambouli 7.0, Collison 6.6, Gibson 6.2, Fleck 6.9, Altidore 6.6, Cole (off 62) 6.4, De Laet (on 43) 6.8, Acquafresca (on 62) 6.7

Notes:
- Newcastle's Gonzalo Jara was handed a straight red and an early shower when he was called for a professional foul on John Fleck.
- Damien Marcq was injured just before the half. Stambouli was moved to DM, De Laet came on to play DC.
- Newcastle made themselves extremely difficult to break down after going down a man. We couldn't find a way through and continually resorted to taking shots from distance. The 0-0 draw is a just result, if not a frustrating one.

Marcq Injured
Damien Marcq is set to miss 3-4 months after tearing his calf muscle while chasing down a ball against Newcastle.

27/08/14 – Finances
West Ham United have been awarded £6.17m for playing in the Champions League group stages.

The Champions League is going to help our bottom line immensely.

Hammers Add Matic
With Damien Marcq's long term injury, West Ham United have moved to add Benfica defensive midfielder Nemanja Matic to the squad. The Serbian, a former Chelsea youth product, has moved to The Boleyn Ground for £575k after being transfer listed by the Portuguese club. The 26 year old has spoken of his relief at the move, ending his frustration from the lack of first team opportunities at Estadio da Luz and was looking to get his career back on track.

I'm expecting Matic to split time with Dan Gosling until Marcq has recovered.

http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/Matic.png

28/08/14 – Champions League Group Draw
Group A: Manchester City, CSKA Moscow, FC Kobenhavn, Hannover
Group B: Olympique Lyonnais, Benfica, AZ Alkmaar, West Ham United
Group C: Inter Milan, Olympique Marseille, Athletic Bilbao, BATE
Group D: Barcelona, Leverkusen, Juventus, Galatasaray
Group E: Shakhtar Donetsk, Schalke, Sporting Lisbon, Partizan
Group F: Real Madrid, Liverpool, Olympiakos, SK Rapid Wien
Group G: Bayern Munchen, Paris Saint-Germain, Besiktas, Zurich
Group H: Manchester United, AC Milan, Anderlecht, Rosenborg

30/08/14 – Premier League Match Day #3
Sunderland 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Stambouli (24), Acquafresca (46), Bramble (o.g. 83)
Shots/On Target: Sunderland 6/3, West Ham 11/6
Possession: Sunderland 53/47
Cautions: Sunderland: Vage Nilsen (Y 23)
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Martin 7.5, Stambouli 8.5, Tomkins 7.6, Fabio 7.5, Gosling 7.1, Collison 7.0, Noble 7.0, Fleck 7.6, Altidore 7.1, Cole (off 45) 6.2, Acquafresca (on 45) 7.3

Notes:
- John Fleck's free kick is bungled by Craig Gordon and Stambouli is there to pick up the pieces.
- Robert Acquafresca comes on as a sub for Carlton Cole, steals the ball from Titus Bramble in the box and immediately scores. Impact.
- An own goal for Titus Bramble. Miguel Martin came down the right and crossed for Fleck, but the Sunderland defender did the work, heading it home.

Carling Cup Draw
West Ham United will host Manchester City in the third round of the Carling Cup. The match will be played at The Boleyn Ground on 24th September.

01/09/14 – August Review
Board Confidence
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugBoard.png

Club Finances
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugFinances.png

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugStats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugPremStats.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/AugTable.png

02/09/14 – Awards
Benjamin Stambouli has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven. This is the second time this season he has been named.

03/09/14 – Injury News
Stathis Christopoulos has returned to full training after missing two weeks with a twisted knee.

08/09/14 – Injury News
Jordan Spence has returned to full training after recovering from torn ankle ligaments.

13/09/14 – Premier League Match Day #4
West Ham United 3 – 1 Liverpool
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (7, 20, pen 39), Liverpool: Doumbia (88)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 11/6, Liverpool 9/5
Possession: Liverpool 53/47
Cautions: Liverpool: Enrique (Y 18), Agger (R 38), Isla (Y 90+1)
Man of the Match: Robet Acquafresca

Form: ter Stegen 7.0, Martin 6.8, Stambouli 7.4, Tomkins 7.3, Fabio (off 72) 7.6, Gosling (off 72) 7.6, Collison 7.0, Noble 7.0, Fleck 6.9, Altidore (off 72) 7.9, Acquafresca 9.5, Tafer (on 72) 6.6, Matic (on 72) 6.8, Lescott (on 72) 6.5

Notes:
- We are the Saturday late game and on television.
- Jozy Altidore takes the ball at midfield, charges down the right, holds the ball up and crosses for Acquafresca who heads up. Brilliant build up.
- The two forwards hook-up once again with Altidore playing a neat ball, Acquafresca driving into the box and slotting past Reina.
- Danny Agger is sent off for being the last man and pulling down Acquafresca in the box with a clear scoring chance. Acquafresca seals his hat trick with the penalty conversion.
- Doumbia gets free from Tomkins at the half-way line and it's a race to the keeper. The Liverpool beats him with a blast from 18 yards.

14/09/14 – Injury News
Dimitris Anakoglou has returned to full training after recovering from his fractured arm.

16/09/14 – Champions League Match Day #1
SL Benfica 2 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: SLB: Skog (28), Yacob (37)
Shots/On Target: SLB 13/4, West Ham 8/3
Possession: SLB 51/49
Cautions: SLB: Bastos (Y 13), Machado (Y 44), Skog (Y 78), West Ham: Gosling (Y 6)
Man of the Match: Skog

Form: ter Stegen 6.6, Martin 5.7, Stambouli 6.8, Tomkins (off 61) 5.4, Fabio 6.8, Gosling 6.9, Gisbon 6.8, Popov (off 61) 5.8, Fleck 6.9, Altidore 6.7, Acquafresca 6.1

Notes:
- Rodrigo finds Skog who beats the offside trap into the box and slots past ter Stegen.
- Yacob gets his head onto the end of a corner and we've got it all to do in the second half.
- We never really got into the match even though possession was nearly equal. Outclassed to start life in Europe.

Awards
Robert Acquafresca has been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

21/09/14 – Premier League Match Day #5
Everton 1 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: Everton: Rodwell (33) West Ham: Acquafresca (22), Altidore (35, 40)
Shots/On Target: Everton 14/9, West Ham 23/7
Possession: Everton 51/49
Cautions: Everton: Barkley (Y 66)
Man of the Match: Jozy Altidore

Form: ter Stegen 7.1, Spence 7.1, Tomkins 7.1, Stambouli 6.9, Lescott 7.0, Fabio (off 66) 7.7, Collison 6.9, Fleck 8.3, Noble (off 66) 6.9, Altidore 8.8, Acquafresca 8.2, Matic (on 66) 6.4, Popov (on 64) 6.7

Notes:
- Acquafresca moves into the box from the left, gets his angle and beats Tim Howard.
- Jack Rodwell rockets one into goal from 20 yards out, hitting the underside of the crossbar.
- Acquafresca feeds Fabio down the left wing, the fullback centers for Altidore who heads past his countrymen. Instant reply.
- Altidore with a double! Fabio throws in to Acquafresca on the touchline, he crosses for Altidore at the near post to double the lead.

24/09/14 – Carling Cup (third round)
West Ham United 0 – 1 Manchester City
Goals: City: Milner (26)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/5, City 12/4
Possession: City 53/47
Man of the Match: James Milner

Form: Bolat 6.8, Martin 6.8, Tomkins 7.1, Stambouli 6.6, Lescott (off 55) 6.6, Matic 6.9, Gibsobn 6.7, Christopoulos 6.8, Popov 6.8, Tafer 6.8, Cole 6.1

Notes:
- City's first real offensive action of the match, Silva crosses to the far post and Milner blasts it into goal.

Lescott Knocked
Joleon Lescott has suffered a pulled hamstring and will miss up to three weeks while recovering.

27/09/14 – Premier League Match Day #6
West Ham United 1 – 1 Manchester City
Goals: West Ham: Collison (34) City: Aguero (15)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/3, City 19/8
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 46), Collison (Y 47), City: de Jong (Y 49), Bocchetti (Y 58)
Man of the Match: Jack Collison

Form: ter Stegen 7.7, Spence 7.1, Tomkins 6.8, Stambouli 6.8, Fabio 6.7, Gosling 6.8, Collison 8.0, Noble 7.0, Fleck (off 72) 5.9, Altidore 6.9, Acquafresca 6.7, Popov (on 72) 6.6

Notes:
- The late kick-off on Saturday evening, as such we're televised.
- Sergio Aguero gets a lay-off from Yaya Toure and beats ter Stegen for the match's opening goal.
Some neat passing, including a back-heel from Fleck to get the move started. - Fleck to Altidore to Acquafresca to a streaking Jack Collison who slides the ball under a diving Joe Hart.

30/09/14 – Awards
Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Jack Collison have been named to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

01/10/14 – September Review
Board Confidence
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptBoard.png

Club Finances
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptFinances.png

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptStats-2.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptPremStats-1.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/SeptTable-2.png

01/10/14 – Champions League Match Day #2
West Ham United 2 – 0 AZ Alkmaar
Goals: West Ham: Cole (48), Gibson (84)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 14/6, AZ 14/7
Possession: AZ 55/45
Cautions: West Ham: Tomkins (Y 15), Acquafresca (Y 19), Gibson (Y 33), Collison (Y 45+1), AZ: Arzo (Y 55), Falkenburg (Y 58), Boymans (Y 61), Marcellis (Y 89)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: ter Stegen 7.6, Martin 7.0, Tomkins 7.4, Stambouli 7.2, Fabio 7.3, Matic 6.9, Collison 6.8, Gibson 7.8, Fleck 6.9, Altidore 7.5, Acquafresca (off 45), Cole (on 45) 7.4

Notes:
- Carlton Cole comes on as a second half sub and makes an immediate impact. Altidore crosses from the right and Cole is there at the back post to put it past the AZ keeper.
- AZ forward Eric Bekoe has a goal ruled offside.
- Darron Gibson steals the ball from defender Dirk Marcellis and blasts it into the back of goal.
- Massive three points puts us back into the race for qualification to the knock-outs.
- West Ham have been awarded £695k for the victory.

You are in 2014 and have a bank loan until 2039 ? Wow. Long term it is.

04/10/14 – Premier League Match Day #7
Manchester United 4 – 0 West Ham United
Goals: United: Hulk (9), Bale (27), Hazard (39), Fletcher (90+1)
Shots/On Target: United 21/8, West Ham 9/6
Possession: United 54/46
Cautions: United: Vidic (Y 82), West Ham: De Laet (Y 51), Christopoulos (Y 89)
Man of the Match: Eden Hazard

Form: ter Stegen 6.1, Spence 6.1, Tomkins 5.9, Stambouli 6.4, De Laet 5.9, Gosling 6.7, Noble 6.5, Christopoulos 6.7, Fleck 6.8, Altidore 5.8, Acquafresca 6.7

Notes:
- We're on television for the fifth time in seven Premier League games. Seven out of all nine games played in all competitions.
- Eden Hazard plays a sweet diagonal ball for Hulk who casually slips into the box and puts it past ter Stegen.
- We're sinking without a trace in this one as Bale heads home Hazard's corner.
- It's getting embarrassing before the half, Rooney charges into the box, cuts back and centers for Hazard who puts it past the hapless ter Stegen.
- We got what we deserved out of this match: nothing.

18/10/14 – Premier League Match Day #8
Chelsea 0 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Acquafresca (15)
Shots/On Target: Chelsea 8/3, West Ham 7/4
Possession: Chelsea 54/46
Cautions: Chelsea: Lukaku (Y 52), Luiz (Y 54), West Ham: Altidore (Y 40)
Man of the Match: Jordan Spence

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Spence 8.5, Tomkins 7.0, Stambouli 8.2, Fabio 7.1, Gosling 7.4, Collison 6.8, Gibson 6.9, Fleck 6.1, Altidore 6.9, Acquafresca 7.3

Notes:
- Excellent cross from Spence on the right to Acquafresca on the far post. A diving header beats Peter Cech.
- A stalwart performance from the back four and a well deserved win.

21/10/14 – Awards
Jordan Spence and Benjamin Stambouli were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven for their stellar performances at Chelsea.

22/10/14 – Champions League Match Day #3
West Ham United 1 – 0 Olympique Lyonnais
Goals: West Ham: Stambouli (48)
Shots/On Target: West Ham: 16/7, Lyon 17/5
Possession: Lyon 51/49
Cautions: Lyon: Lopez (R 62)
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: ter Stegen 8.3, Spence 7.3, Lescott 7.1, Stambouli 8.3, Fabio 7.2, Gosling 6.9, Collison 7.0, Noble 7.2, Fleck 6.9, Altidore 6.8, Acquafresca 6.7

Notes:
- A first half that resulted in numerous chances for the French visitors, but ter Stegen was flawless.
- A Mark Noble corner results in a Benjamin Stambouli headed goal. Noble sure knows how to pick them out.
- Lisandro Lopez is given a straight red for ripping Stambouli down from behind after a battle for the ball near midfield. Obvious red.
- Lyon still came along well after the red, pressing into our half and third, but ter Stegen was excellent all the way through.
- We remain third in the group despite that win, but Benfica and Lyon are also on six points. The return leg in Lyon and with AZ will be vital to our chances of progressing.
- West Ham have been awarded £695k for the victory.

24/10/14 – Contracts
Skipper Jack Collison has penned a new four year contract with the club, stating his love for West Ham as the main reason behind signing the deal.

25/10/14 – Premier League Match Day #9
West Ham United 4 – 0 Queens Park Rangers
Goals: West Ham: Tafer (7, 90), Popov (53), Stambouli (62)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 12/6, QPR 11/5
Possession: West Ham 57/43
Cautions: West Ham: Gibson (Y 49), Acquafresca (Y 57), QPR: Barton (Y 16), McGowan (Y 60)
Man of the Match: Miguel Martin

Form: ter Stegen 7.0, Martin 9.0, Tomkins 7.4, Stambouli 8.6, Lescott 7.8, Matic 7.5, Gibson 7.1, Collison (off 66) 6.9, Popov 8.5, Tafer 8.8, Acquafresca 7.3

Notes:
- Miguel Martin crosses in for Acquafresca who pokes it toward Tafer. The Frenchman rounds the keeper and walks the ball into the net.
- Ivelin Popov, who has been disappointing this season, gets his first goal, toeing home Miguel Martin's cross. Martin has been influential from right-back in the attacking third.
- Stambouli makes it three, heading home his second in as many matches, this one from Popov's corner.
- Tafer's brace was self-created, his initial shot hit the defender and bounced back onto his foot. He took a second effort and found the top corner.

28/10/14 – Contracts
Marc-Andre ter Stegen has sealed a new four year, £9m contract with West Ham. The German keeper has declared himself delighted with the way the club is performing in the league.

This is huge. He only signed for one year as a free and had a £2.9m release clause in his contract. This new deal signs him up long term and removes that fee release clause.

Awards
Miguel Martin, Benjamin Stambouli and Ivelin Popov have been selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

October In Review
Board Confidence
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctBoard.png

Club Finances
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctFinances.png

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctStats.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctPremStats-2.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/OctTable-1.png

01/11/14 – Premier League Match Day #10
West Ham United 3 – 1 Arsenal
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (3), Tafer (73), Stambouli (79) Arsenal: Koscielny (41)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 9/4, Arsenal 16/8
Possession: Arsenal 60/40
Cautions: West Ham: Spence (Y 18), Arsenal: Song (Y 25), Koscielny (Y 77)
Man of the Match: Marc-Andre ter Stegen

Form: ter Stegen 8.5, Spence 7.2, Tomkins 7.6, Stambouli 8.1, Fabio (off 45) 6.3, Matic 7.0, Collison 6.9, Gibson 7.1, Fleck 8.4, Altidore (off 45) 6.1, Acquafresca (off 50) 6.6, De Laet (on 45) 6.9, Cole (on 50) 6.9, Tafer (on 45) 7.4

Notes:
- The supporters are going to want this one badly. Can we acquiesce?
- We've also got the lunch time kick-off. Yet another televised game for the Hammers.
- James Tomkins gets his head onto the head of a John Fleck cross into the box.
- Laurent Koscielny heads home a Griezmann corner to level the score just before the half.
- Fabio comes off for De Laet at the half due to a knock and Altidore comes off for Tafer for a poor performance.
- Acquafresca is injured five minutes into the second half with Carlton Cole coming on to replace him.
- Gibson works a ball to Tafer at the top of the box, Tafer goes to his left and drives left-footed, beating Szczesny at the top corner.
- Stambouli makes it three with his fifth of the season from a John Fleck corner. Stambouli has been lethal at the near post this year.
- The win pulls us within two points of the first placed Gunners. It is also Arsenal's first league defeat of the season.

Acquafresca Injury
Robert Acquafresca is set to face a 4-5 week spell on the sideline after spraining his ankle while falling awkwardly against Arsenal.

04/11/14 – Champions League Match Day #4
Olympique Lyonnais 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Lyon: Niang (13), West Ham: Tafer (22), Popov (78)
Shots/On Target: Lyon: 15/3, West Ham 11/6
Possession: Lyon 59/41
Cautions: Lyon: Inler (Y 87), West Ham: Noble (Y 16), Popov (Y 52)
Man of the Match: Mark Noble

Form: ter Stegen 6.7, Spence 7.0, Tomkins 6.9, Stambouli 6.9, Lescott 6.9, Gosling 6.9, Collison 7.3, Noble 8.3, Popov 8.0, Tafer 7.3, Altidore (off 56) 5.5, Cole (on 56) 6.3

Notes:
- Nervy start in France as Niang goes close just two minutes in. Gueida Fofana hits the bar six minutes in and we are quickly on the back foot.
- Niang gives the hosts the lead with a powerful effort.
- We finally get some space to operate and Popov slides a nice through ball in to Yannis Tafer. His shot hits the right post and bounces over the line.
- Brilliant work from Mark Noble to get a through ball to Ivelin Popov who beats the trap and Hugo Lloris.
- A big, big three points that moves us into sole possession of second in the group and tied with Benfica on 9 points.
- West Ham are given £695k for the victory.

Awards
Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Benjamin Stambouli and John Fleck were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

08/11/14 – Premier League Match Day #11
Tottenham Hotspur 1 – 1 West Ham United
Goals: Spurs: Chantome (37), West Ham: Altidore (5)
Shots/On Target: Spurs: 23/9, West Ham 16/6
Possession: Spurs 53/47
Cautions: Spurs: Modric (Y 59), Kuranyi (Y 63), West Ham: Gibson (Y 34), Tomkins (Y 77)
Man of the Match: Jozy Altidore

Form: ter Stegen 8.1, Martin 6.8, Tomkins 8.1, Stambouli 6.3, Fabio 6.7, Gosling 6.7, Noble (off 45) 5.9, Gibson 6.8, Fleck 6.8, Tafer 6.8, Altidore 8.3, Anakoglou (on 45) 6.8

Notes:
- Spurs have a completely new look lineup that includes Kevin Kuranyi, Abel Hernandez, Junior Hoilett, Clement Chantome and Xavi. Yes, the same Xavi that was at Barcelona.
0 Jozy Altidore gets things started with a fantastic curling effort from 20 yards.
- Clement Chantome levels the score when Stambouli can't clear. It's his first goal for Spurs.

11/11/14 – Awards
Marc-Andre ter Stegen and James Tomkins were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

12/11/14 – FIFA Rankings
1. France
2. Croatia
3. Argentina
4. Spain
5. Brazil
6. England
7. Portugal
8. Uruguay
9. Italy
10. Sweden

Some other interesting rankings: Germany 13th, Holland 26th, USA 30th, Gabon 32nd

12/11/14 – Premier League Match Day #12
West Ham United 1 – 0 Leicester City
Goals: West Ham: Cole (74)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 21/6, Leicester 9/3
Possession: Leicester 52/48
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 27), Stambouli (Y 81), Leicester: Kennedy (Y 28), Kadrii (Y 90+2)
Man of the Match: Jordan Spence

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Spence 7.8, Lescott 6.8, Stambouli 6.8, Fabio 7.3, Matic 6.7, Collison 7.4, Noble 7.4, Fleck (off 71) 5.6, Tafer 6.1, Altidore (off 71) 6.3, Popov (on 71) 6.7, Cole (on 71) 7.3

Notes:
- Hosting our rivals since our season in the Championship. They also bought Sam Baldock from us in the summer and he gets a start up top.
- Jozy Altidore has hit the upright and the crossbar in the first half-hour.
- Carlton Cole breaks the deadlock, getting free and receiving a through ball from Mark Noble.

18/11/14 – News
Awards
Jordan Spence was selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

Injury
James Tomkins is set to miss 5-6 days after colliding head to head with Mark Noble during a training session.

19/11/14 – Injury
Nemanja Matic is set to miss between 9-11 days with a thigh strain. The injury was sustained in a reserves match with Norwich.

22/11/14 – Premier League Match Day #13
Huddersfield Town 2 – 4 West Ham United
Goals: Hudds: Hasselbaink (59, 70), West Ham: Fleck (35), Collison (54), Noble (80), Tafer (90+3)
Shots/On Target: Hudds: 10/7, West Ham 14/10
Possession: Hudds: 55/45
Cautions: Hudds: Possebon (Y 78), West Ham: Noble (Y 32)
Man of the Match: Nigel Hasselbaink

Form: ter Stegen 7.2, Spence 7.1, Lescott 7.2, Stambouli 7.1, Fabio (off 75) 6.6, Gosling 6.9, Noble 8.6, Collison (off 75) 8.0, Fleck 8.5, Altidore 7.3, Tafer 7.5, De Laet (on 75) 6.9, Christopoulos (on 75) 6.9

Notes:
- John Fleck with a classic 30 yard rocket into the top corner of goal.
- Skipper Jack Collison nabs the second after a superb pass from Altidore.
- Hasselbaink gets on the end of a Teigl cross to pull within one.
- Hasselbaink again as Jimmy-Floyd's son gets a head onto a corner to level the match.
- Noble gives us back the lead with a lovely lob from 25 yards out, just getting over the head of the keeper.
- Yannis Tafer puts it beyond doubt in stoppage time, heading home Altidore's flick on.

24/11/14 – News
Tottenham have fired manager Martin Jol and Otto Kafka has been linked as the favorite to replace the Dutchman at White Hart Lane. I have moved to deny any interest in the job.

25/11/14 – Awards
Mark Noble and John Fleck have been selected in the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

26/11/14 – Champions League Match Day #5
West Ham United 1 – 0 SL Benfica
Goals: West Ham: Cole (50)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 11/1, SLB 11/3
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Noble (Y 81), Collison (Y 87), SLB: Machado (Y 63), Michel (Y 62), Felipe Bastos (Y 79)
Man of the Match: Joleon Lescott

Form: ter Stegen 6.7, Spence 7.3, Lescott 7.5, Stambouli 7.1, Fabio 7.2, Gosling 6.9, Collison 6.9, Noble 7.2, Fleck 6.9, Tafer 6.9, Altidore (off 26) 6.7, Cole (on 26) 7.2

Notes:
- Jozy Altidore comes off in the first half because of a knock.
- Yannis Tafer cross to the far post from the right, Carlton Cole slides home the chance.
- West Ham are given £695k for the victory
- West Ham have qualified for the first knockout round of the Champions League.

28/11/14 – Injury
Fabio has suffered strained knee ligaments and is set to miss 5-6 weeks with the injury.

30/11/14 – Premier League Match Day #14
West Ham United 3 – 3 Blackburn Rovers
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (27), Wallace (o.g. 68), Tafer (pen 90+1), Blackburn: Ortigoza (1, 90+3), Rochina (84)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 18/10, Blackburn 15/7
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: West Ham: Altidore (Y 49)
Man of the Match: Nestor Ortigoza

Form: ter Stegen 6.6, Spence 6.8, Stambouli (off 60) 6.6, Lescott 6.7, Gosling 6.7, Collison 7.0, Gibson 6.9, Fleck 7.2, Altidore (off 60) 6.1, Cole 8.4, De Laet (on 60) 6.1, Tafer (on 60) 6.8

Notes:
- Sunday afternoon kick-off, as such we're on television.
- Brutal way to start, Ortigoza gets his head on the end of a long free kick.
- John Fleck levels the match by blasting home a cross on the volley.
- Cole tries to center the ball, it hits Wallace off the back and bounces past a hapless Paul Robinson. We'll take the lead any way we can get it.
- Confusion in the box and a pass gets to Ruben Rochina who doesn't miss.
- Scott Dann is called for a foul in the box in stoppage time, Tafer converts the penalty.
- Unbelievable. Ortigoza levels the match from Diane's cross.

November In Review
Board Confidence
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovBoard.png

Club Finances
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovFinances.png

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovStats-1.png

Premier League Leaders
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovPremStats-2.png

Premier League Table
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/NovTable-2.png

01/12/14 – News
FA Cup Draw
West Ham United will travel to Kenilworth Road on 3rd January to face Luton Town in the third round of the FA Cup.

Luton Town are managed by former Hammers captain and England defender Matthew Upson.

Injury News
Robert Acquafresca has returned to full training after missing four weeks with a sprained ankle.

03/12/14 – Injury
Jack Collison has suffered a strained knee and will miss 5-6 weeks with the injury.

Ritchie De Laet has sustained a strained wrist and will miss up to 10 days.

Miguel Martin has strained his groin and will miss 2-3 weeks.

06/12/14 – Premier League Match Day #15
Stoke City 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (26), Cole (32), Stambouli (56)
Shots/On Target: Stoke 9/3, West Ham 17/6
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: Stoke: Rodriguez (Y 39), Dabo (R 52), Antal (Y 81)
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Spence 7.8, Tomkins 8.0, Stambouli 8.7, Lescott 7.4, Gosling 7.2, Gibson 6.9, Noble 7.9, Fleck 7.7, Altidore 7.7, Cole 7.7

Notes:
- Fleck opens the scoring, taking Spence's cross from the and tapping it past the keeper.
- Carlton Cole doubles the lead, taking a long pass, beating the defense and slotting into goal.
- Fleck is taken down from Mouhamadou Dabo and the Stoke player is sent off as he was the last man.
- Stambouli scores his sixth goal of the year, heading home Mark Noble's corner.

09/12/14 – Champions League Match Day #6
AZ Alkmaar 0 – 5 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Popov (5, 90+1), Noble (pen 14), Cole (18), Stambouli (26)
Shots/On Target: AZ 3/0, West Ham 18/9
Possession: West Ham 53/47
Cautions: AZ: Arzo (Y 39), Falkenburg (Y 45+1), Tasevski (Y 81), West Ham: Altidore (Y 33), Lescott (Y 53)
Man of the Match: Carlton Cole

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Lescott (off 77) 7.6, Tomkins 8.1, Stambouli 8.7, Spence 8.4, Marcq 7.6, Gibson 6.9, Noble 8.7, Popov 9.3, Altidore (off 77) 8.2, Cole 9.3

Notes:
- Off to a quick start, Altidore passes forward for Popov who easily beats the keeper from 20 yards.
- Cesar Arzo pulls down Altidore in the box, Noble converts.
- Carlton Cole is on the end of Jordan Spence's cross and it's a 3-0 lead within 20 minutes.
- Benjamin Stambouli gets his head on the end of Mark Noble's corner and it's 4-0 within a half-hour.
- Popov's stoppage time goal was almost identical to his first.
- Damien Marcq looked solid in his return after 3 months away through injury.
- West Ham have been given £695k for the victory, we have also secured the top spot in Group B with a 5-0-1 record. Benfica will also advance from the group.

Injury
Joleon Lescott has suffered a sprained ankle and will miss 4-5 weeks. The injuries are s

Awards
Jordan Spence, Benjamin Stambouli and James Tomkins were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

13/12/14 – Premier League Match Day #16
West Ham United 3 – 0 Norwich City
Goals: West Ham: Stambouli (35), Anakoglou (84), Tafer (90+1)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/4, Norwich 5/2
Possession: West Ham 51/49
Man of the Match: Benjamin Stambouli

Form: ter Stegen 7.3, Gosling 7.6, Tomkins 7.5, Stambouli 8.1, Spence 7.8, Marcq 7.3, Gibson 6.9, Noble (off 66) 7.5, Fleck (off 66) 6.8, Altidore (off 66) 6.9, Cole 6.9, Anakoglou (on 66) 8.1, Popov (on 66) 6.9, Tafer (on 66) 8.0

Notes:
- Benjamin Stambouli has yet another goal from a Mark Noble corner. Near post dominance.
- Sublime effort from Anakoglou as he roofs one from 20 yards out.
- Yannis Tafer scores with a brilliant lob from 15 yards, it scoots inside the left post.

19/12/14 – Champions League Knockout Draw
Manchester City v. Real Madrid
Athletic Bilbao v. West Ham United
Liverpool v. CSKA Moscow
SL Benfica v. Bayern Munchen
Leverkusen v. Manchester United
AC Milan v. Barcelona
Besiktas v. Sporting Lisbon
Schalke v. Olympique Marseille

West Ham will face Althetic Club Bilbao in the Champions League first knockout round. The first leg will be played at San Mames on 18th February.

Injury News
Miguel Martin has returned to full training after missing two weeks with a groin strain.

20/12/14 – Premier League Match Day #17
West Ham United 3 – 1 Fulham
Goals: West Ham: Gibson (2, 84), Altidore (47), Fulham: Ben Khalifa (40)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 19/7, Fulham 11/2
Possession: West Ham 56/44
Cautions: Fulham: Capoue (Y 35), Ben Khalifa (Y 82)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: ter Stegen 7.1, Gosling 6.9, Tomkins 7.4, Stambouli 6.9, Spence 6.9, Marcq 6.9, Gibson 9.0, Noble 7.6, Fleck 7.9, Altidore 8.2, Cole 6.8

Notes:
- Great goal from Gibson. Altidore passes to him and it takes a wicked deflection before going in. Flying start to the match.
- Nassim Ben Khalifa levels the match, taking Kasami's pass and blasting it past ter Stegen.
- Altidore restores the lead, taking Fleck's through ball, rounding Ustari and hitting the back of goal.
- Darron Gibson gets his second, heading home Mark Noble's corner.

23/12/14 – Premier League Match Day #18
Wolverhampton Wanderers 1 – 2 West Ham United
Goals: Wolves: Vokes (10), West Ham: Popov (8, 45)
Shots/On Target: Wolves 6/2, West Ham 13/5
Possession: West Ham 54/46
Cautions: Wolves: Zubar (Y 82), West Ham: Marcq (Y 39), Christopoulos (Y 52)
Man of the Match: Ivelin Popov

Form: ter Stegen 6.8, Spence 7.1, Tomkins 7.3, Stambouli 6.9, De Laet 7.2, Marcq 6.9, Noble 7.0, Christopoulos 7.0, Popov 8.8, Altidore 6.9, Acquafresca 6.8

Notes:
Popov pounces on a loose ball in the box and gives us the lead.
Sam Vokes gets on the end of a Jamie O'Hara free kick to level it.
Popov makes a double just before halftime, volleying in Altidore's cross.

Awards:
Darron Gibson and Jozy Altidore were selected to the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

26/12/14 – Premier League Match Day #19
West Ham United 2 – 0 Birmingham City
Goals: West Ham: Tomkins (8), Tafer (80)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/8, Brum 8/4
Possession: Brum 53/47
Cautions: West Ham: Spence (Y 63), Brum: Gunnarsson (Y 46), Avraam (Y 61)
Man of the Match: John Fleck

Form: ter Stegen 7.4, Gosling 7.4, Tomkins 8.4, Stambouli 7.4, Spence 7.2, Marcq 7.0, Gibson 6.9, Fleck 8.4, Popov 7.1, Tafer 7.4, Cole 6.9

Notes:
- Tomkins gets on the end of a John Fleck corner and heads it home.
- Yannis Tafer gets his head onto John Fleck's cross from the left to salt the victory away.

30/12/14 – Awards
John Fleck was selected in the Premier League Team of the Week first eleven.

31/12/14 – Contract News
Joleon Lescott has signed a new two year, £2m contract.

December In Review
Board Confidence
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Club Finances
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/DecFinances.png

West Ham Player Stats
http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd486/fofcwhu/decstats-1.png

Premier League Leaders
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Premier League Table
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03/01/15 – FA Cup (third round)
Luton Town 0 – 3 West Ham United
Goals: West Ham: Cole (5), Niculescu (33), Christopoulos (42)
Shots/On Target: Luton 3/1, West Ham 17/5
Possession: West Ham 62/38
Man of the Match: Ritchie De Laet

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Martin 7.4, Tomkins 7.2, Stambouli 7.3, De Laet 8.4, Gosling 7.1, Anakoglou 7.1, Niculescu 8.0, Christopoulos 7.5, Tafer 7.0, Cole 7.7

Notes:
- Starting a number of backups across the board as we should have an easy time with this one.
- Quick start with a poor clearance from the Luton keeper. De Laet heads it forward, Cole is past the defence and around the keeper.
- Our promising CM, Alberto Niculescu gets the second, hitting the top right corner with a cheeky shot from just outside the six.
- Stathis Christopoulos gets his first for the club, taking Tafer's pass, turning and firing past the keeper.
- West Ham have been given £68,850 for the victory.

05/01/15 – FA Cup Draw
West Ham United will travel to The Weston Homes Community Stadium on 31st January to face Colchester United in the FA Cup fourth round. The two clubs last met in the Carling Cup in August 2011, a match which West Ham won 4-1.

07/01/15 – Premier League Match Day #20
West Ham United 3 – 1 Aston Villa
Goals: West Ham: Fleck (11), Gibson (34), Cole (87), Villa: Fellah (14)
Shots/On Target: West Ham 15/7, Villa 11/4
Possession: 50/50
Cautions: West Ham: Marcq (Y 82), Villa: Delph (Y 58)
Man of the Match: Darron Gibson

Form: ter Stegen 6.9, Spence 8.1, Tomkins 6.9, Stambouli 7.0, De Laet 7.3, Marcq 7.1, Gibson 8.3, Noble 6.9, Fleck 7.8, Tafer 6.9, Cole 7.5

Notes:
- Outstanding opening goal from John Fleck who is absolutely deadly on free kicks from 30 yards or more. He's hit another.
- Fabian Delph with an excellent through ball for Fellah and he ties it easily.
- Darron Gibson one-times a shot into the bottom left corner of goal.
- Darren Bent rockets one off the bar. (81)
- Carlton Cole seals the victory with his strike, beating the defence and latching on to Tafer's through ball.

08/01/15 – Injury News
Joleon lescott has returned to training after missing four weeks with a sprained ankle.