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C&H Exclusive: Concession strategy revealed

West Ham concession strategy revealed exclusively to C&H

 

London Stadium_Concession strategy revealed_David Sullivan

The London Stadium Concession strategy has been revealed to C&H by a top club source

By Sean Whetstone

West Ham will follow Spurs’ lead by phasing our concession season tickets by moving them to upper tiers and lower priced ticket bands it has been confirmed.

West Ham United Supporters Trust blew the whistle in a statement saying the Hammers were introducing a new strategy for new season ticket holders limited concession tickets to certain areas. There have been no concession-priced seats for some time for 1996 West Stand 1996 Billy Bonds season tickets and now it looks like seats in bands 1 to 4 will follow suit.

Existing season ticket holders with concession-based prices in bands 1-4 will not be affected by the change.

Speaking exclusively to Claret & Hugh a senior club source told us:

“Spurs have scrapped all concessions and have just the one price now in each area.

In the long term, we want to create family stands for children and the elderly, but it will NOT impact existing season ticket holders renewing.

Spurs have scrapped concessions altogether, even on renewals!”

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Mini silly season gossip & news round-up

West Ham news round-up

With the international break in full swing, West Ham fans have been with transfer tittle tattle. Whilst it’s not quite the transfer window, the break in domestic football has prompted a mini-silly season of rumours. Here’s a quick rundown of the latest links involving the Hammers:

1. Charlie Hughes: West Ham eyes Wigan Athletic’s rising star Charlie Hughes to bolster their defensive ranks this summer. The 20-year-old centre-back has been turning heads with his performances in League One. Much will depend on whether David Moyes stays or goes.

2. Samuel Iling-Junior: Following England Under-21’s dominant 7-0 win, Juventus’ Samuel Iling-Junior is on the radar. With his contract winding down, a summer move seems probable. West Ham, previously linked in January, might reignite our interest.

3. Amadou Onana: West Ham’s midfield struggles could us them eyeing Everton midfielder Onana. The Toffees have fallen foul of FFP and may need to sell. Previously close to joining the Irons but went to Everton for more money.

4. Victor Boniface: The hunt for a striker intensifies with Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface reportedly attracting multiple suitors. West Ham is among the clubs eyeing the prolific forward. Expect a big exodus from Leverkusen at the end of the season when Xabi Alonso departs.

Tim Steidten winning power and influence at West Ham

News round-up. Tim Steidten is evidently busier than Santa on Christmas Eve

5. Ivan Toney: Brentford’s Ivan Toney remains a target, with his potential arrival possibly influencing the future of star man Lucas Paqueta, who is expected to be in the spotlight this summer as reported by ExWHUEmployee.

6. Jonathan Tah: Yes, him again. Possibly just lazy journalistic work but he’s known to Tim Steidten.

7. Morgan Gibbs-White: It’s a big yes from me. Mega talented young Englishman. Nottingham Forest might be forced to sell due to them being on the same naughty step as Everton.

 

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The perfect storm for an empty London Stadium

Poor football, low transfer spend & price hikes could mean an empty London Stadium

With season ticket prices rising at West Ham next season, the club could be facing a perfect storm that may lead to reduced matchday attendance.

As Sean wrote earlier, the Hammers’ price hike could range from 6% to 11% depending on the ticket. However, with uncertainty surrounding the manager’s position and a low transfer outlay, fans may be unwilling to risk a significant sum on a season ticket.

Band 6 season ticket prices start at £345, which is exceptional value by Premier League standards. At the top end of the scale, the 1966 tickets are £1720, which is a considerable amount of money, especially with people’s budgets becoming increasingly squeezed.

However, the application of Financial Fair Play (FFP) with profit and sustainability measures will mean that many clubs will be unable to spend lavishly. Whilst West Ham are not in as dire straits as some clubs, it’s likely that our transfer business won’t break any records.

West Ham fans leave the London Stadium early as West Ham were thrashed by Arsenal_An empty London Stadium could become a regular occurrence next season

An empty London Stadium could become a regular occurrence next season

Therefore, the prospect of limited signings, combined with uncertainty surrounding the manager’s future, could decrease ticket renewals. Paradoxically, David Moyes is probably the perfect man to manage a Premier League club on a shoestring budget. His pragmatic style of football would almost certainly ensure survival, and the board’s prudent spending should prevent any points deductions.

Unfortunately, the plans for the London Stadium to operate at an increased capacity have probably come at the wrong time. While thrifty accounting and pragmatic football might be beneficial for the football club, I doubt it will be enough incentive for many to renew their season tickets at an increased price.

 

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Defender could end Moyes Maguire interest

Moyes Maguire interest over as Tah gets Moyes attention

West Ham’s defence has been about as reliable as my ex-wife trying to parallel park – all over the place. So, it’s no surprise we’re eyeing Jonathan Tah, a German brick wall with a knack for goals. His expiring contract screams bargain, but is it a deal too good to be true?

On paper, Tah is a dream. Towering and a tackling machine, he’d shore up West Ham’s wobbly backline. But here’s the thing – the Bundesliga ain’t the Premier League. Can Tah handle the firestorm of the English game? His German stats are shiny, but translating that to the Prem’s relentless pace is a gamble.

Tah is the man West Ham want to replace Nayef Aguerd

Moyes Maguire interest could end by signing Jonathon Tah

Moyes faces a tough call. Does he play it safe and chase someone proven in the Premier League (remember his Maguire fixation?), or is Tah’s potential worth the risk? The price tag is tempting, but a failed adaptation could be a disaster. West Ham need to be sure Tah can slot into the system seamlessly and handle the physicality of England’s top tier. As has been witnessed with Nayef Aguerd, not every sogning can handle the robust intensity of the EPL.

This could be a masterstroke if Tah adapts like a duck to water. But if he flops, it’ll be another frustrating transfer window for West Ham fans. West Ham should be cautious, but at least former Leverkusen employee Tim Steidten will be able to offer some advice. Is Tah the answer to our defensive woes, or just another question mark?  Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – this transfer saga is far from over.

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Last chance for Hammer with career in decline

Last chance for Hammer to avoid the football scrapheap 

Let’s be honest here, Kalvin Phillips has been awful since joining The Hammers on loan from Manchester City. His appearances have been marred by red cards and individual errors, resulting in West Ham conceding numerous goals.

In many respects, David Moyes’ decision to prioritise the signing of Phillips above all others appears foolish. If the midfielder arrived at West Ham with a valuation of £35-40m, it’s safe to say that figure has decreased by at least half.

Dropped by Gareth Southgate from the England squad, Phillips would have been dismayed to see Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo perform so well in his absence. However, the former Leeds man has an opportunity to reverse the decline in his career with a three-game audition for West Ham in the absence of Edson Alvarez.

Last chance for Hammer with career in decline with Kalvin Philips poised to replace Edson Alvarez

Last chance for Hammer? Kalvin Philips has had an awful start to his Irons career 

Edson Alvarez picked up his 10th yellow card of the Premier League season during the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa just before the break. This means the exceptional Mexican midfielder will miss West Ham’s upcoming matches against Newcastle on Saturday lunchtime and Tottenham on Tuesday night, as well as the first leg of next month’s quarter-final against Bayer Leverkusen in Europe.

Last glimmer of hope for failing Hammer

These three games in the next two weeks are crucial and will significantly influence West Ham’s season run-in. David Moyes may have to rely on Kalvin Phillips for all three matches, putting pressure on the 28-year-old to make an impact during his loan spell.

The outlook isn’t promising. West Ham’s record without Alvarez is dismal, with just one point from three league games and no wins. It’s tough to admit, but so far, our record with Phillips isn’t much better.

So the pressure is on. If Phillips performs well for The Irons, he will have an opportunity to reignite his career. Should he fail, it’s difficult to see him getting another chance.

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West Ham Season tickets increases revealed

West Ham yesterday announced season ticket renewal price increases yesterday with supporters facing increases of between 6.04% and 11.43%

Bands 5 and 6 adults have seen the biggest increases between 9.68% and 11.43% with all other ticket bands (1966 and bands 1-4) averaging 6.21%

The Over 66 and Under 21 category have seen an average rise of 7.5% excluding bands 5 and 6 who have seen an average rise of 10.55%

U18’s will need to pay more too with the £99 season ticket disappearing after 8 years, bands 5 and 6 will pay £109 per season an increase of 10.55%

All other bands in junior tickets rise by an average 7.82%

Season ticket holders have until 3 June to renew or face losing their seat

The renewal deadline for ten-month finance agreements is Tuesday 30 April, and the renewal deadline for four-month finance agreements is Friday 24 May.

Last season the renewal rate was 94% with the previous summer being 97% so there is no reason to believe renews will not be in the mid nineties again or above.

Revenue wise the increases will bring in an additional £2.5m to the club coffers by my estimates. Currently the 48,500 season ticket holders pay around £34m rising to £36.5m next season

Below is the breakdown of each category increase, percentage and comparison to last season.

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Fabrizio Romano: Hammers target is available

Hammers target is available as Juventus struggle to hold on to talent

One highly chased player from England Under-21’s 7-0 thumping over Luxembourg on Tuesday was Juventus’ Samuel Iling-Junior. It seems increasingly likely that the 20-year-old will be on the move this summer, given that his contract with Juve has just over a year left to run. West Ham were heavily linked to the player in the January transfer window but ended up focusing on Ibrahim Osman and Jota instead, failing to secure either of them.

The versatile youngster can operate in midfield or out wide as a wing-back or winger and has made 17 appearances in Serie A for Max Allegri’s side this season, mostly as an attacking left wing-back.

Hammers target Samuel Iling-Junior is available

Hammers target Samuel Iling-Junior is available according to Fabrizio Romano

Now, the England Under-21 international is drawing interest from clubs back home, potentially leading to a return to the country after departing Chelsea’s academy system in 2020. Junior’s taring in a UK based academy means he qualifies as a home grown player, which is something Tim Steidten is looking out for.

Spurs, West Ham United, and Brighton & Hove Albion are all reportedly interested in making a bid for the player, who has demonstrated his capabilities on both flanks and scored two goals against Luxembourg whilst playing as a left wing-back. In addition to his versatility, he offers plenty of quality, which is why it’s not just English teams in the market – upcoming Europa opponents Bayer Leverkusen are also reportedly interested.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has mentioned in his daily briefing that Iling-Junior is available for sale, but based on his update, there will likely be high demand for his services, leading to a competitive bidding war.

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Rejuvenated Paqueta can take down Toon

Rejuvenated Paqueta ready to roar against Newcastle 

Lucas Paqueta holds the key if West Ham are to secure anything in the Premier League game at St James’ Park.

The Hammers head to the North East to take on Newcastle in Saturday’s early kick-off, following impressive performances from Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen for their respective countries. Paqueta, in particular, stood out against England and found the net in Brazil’s 3-3 draw with Spain.

Rejuvenated Lucas Paqueta can take down Toon when West Ham travel to Newcastle

Rejuvenated Lucas Paqueta can take down Toon when West Ham travel to Newcastle

Our Brazilian maestro appeared to have the weight of the world lifted from his shoulders in both matches, displaying a confident swagger. His optimal position is central, where he can dictate play with confidence and dictate the flow of the game. Paqueta seems poised to dominate games, and with Bowen buoyed by his England exploits, both players will approach the match with renewed vigour.

Facing Eddie Howe’s Newcastle side won’t be easy, and we’ll need Kudus back from injury, having been omitted from Ghana’s recent friendlies. However, if West Ham are to secure a valuable win, a rejuvenated Paqueta will undoubtedly play a pivotal role.

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Moyes may finally get his No1 midfield man

David Moyes may finally get his No1 midfield choice 

West Ham’s midfield woes are no secret. Kalvin Phillips’ underwhelming loan spell highlights the need for a central midfielder, and Amado Onana’s potential move to the London Stadium is an interesting proposition.

The Belgian midfielder was originally close to signing for Moyes. However, he priced himself out of the move, transferred to Everton and we signed Paqueta instead. I have always suspected that Moyes original plan was to sign Jesse Lingard from Manchester United for free and play Onana in midfield next to Declan Rice.

Onana is a proven talent with a similar skillset to Phillips, offering bite and defensive solidity. Everton’s financial turmoil presents a golden opportunity for West Ham to snatch a player we coveted previously.

However, questions remain. Onana hasn’t exactly set the world alight at Everton, and West Ham fans might be hesitant to trust another untested loanee after Phillips’ struggles.

David Moyes could be set to get his N01 midfield target

Moyes may finally get his No1 midfielder in Onana

Ultimately, the decision hinges on Moyes’ vision. Does he want a like-for-like Phillips replacement, or is he looking to shake things up? Onana offers a strong option, but West Ham need to be clear on how he’ll integrate into the existing midfield. Edson Alvarez is the fulcrum of the team so it would perhaps be Tomas Soucek who’s role is up for grabs.

This potential transfer could be a masterstroke if Onana rediscovers his form.  However, it also carries the risk of being another gamble that backfires.  West Ham need to tread carefully and ensure Onana is the right piece to unlock their midfield’s true potential.

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Season ticket renewals? Much depends on Moyes’ future

Season ticket renewals? It all depends on Moyes’ future

Like many others, I received my season ticket renewal email today. The invitation to renew states, “The renewal deadline for 2024/25 is at 5pm on Monday 3 June.”

At first glance, it all seems quite standard, but upon closer inspection, there’s more to consider. Setting aside potential price increases, it’s the date that has me more than a little concerned. Because on June 3rd, we’re unlikely to know whether David Moyes will be the manager next season, and that’s a significant factor in the decision-making process.

Another major consideration, of course, is European football, and by the end of May, at least we’ll know our fate in that regard. However, for many fans, committing to watching a season of domestic football at an increased price under David Moyes may lead them to decide not to renew.

Season ticket renewals? It all depends on Moyes' future

Season ticket renewals? It all depends on Moyes’ future

I can almost hear dear old Hughie in my head, complaining that Moyes’ defensive tactics are “un-West Ham” and that most of the time, the defensive strategy is tedious to watch. And Hugh’s opinion was shared by so many, which makes the decision to renew a difficult one.

Will Moyes be here next season?

Money is tight at the moment, and the cost of everything seems to be rising. Football should be enjoyable and offer a bit of escapism from the daily grind. A season ticket should be something to look forward to and get excited about, but it’s tough to watch West Ham sit back and defend against all teams, good and bad.

Of course, there are some highlights, like beating Arsenal and thrashing Freiburg 5-0. But we’re also susceptible to getting thrashed ourselves, and more than half of West Ham’s games are frankly boring.

I suppose for those for whom money is not a concern, renewing might be an easy decision. But for those whose monthly budgets are very tight, they may prefer to wait and see what’s on offer at the London Stadium next season before committing.