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    West Ham ready to cut losses on £20m flop who has played just 43 minutes all season as Potter starts to clear decks

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    WEST HAM are in talks to sell Luis Guilherme to a Saudi Arabian side just six months after signing him for £20million.The 18-year-old arrived from Palmeiras to much fanfare but has played just 43 minutes across five sub appearances this season.West Ham could sell Luis Guilherme just six months after signing himCredit: RexCashing in on him would raise funds for new boss Graham PotterCredit: PAThe Hammers need to raise funds to make signings for new boss Graham Potter this month and may cut their losses on Guilherme.Saudi clubs were interested in the Brazilian during the summer and West Ham pushed hard to bring him to London over the Gulf, with the player saying a move to the Premier League was a “dream” come true.Al-Ittihad and Al-Qadsiah are both showing an interest in the versatile attacker.Former boss Julen Lopetegui backed Guilherme to make the step up to competing in the Premier League soon.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, despite being short on attacking talent, new boss Potter opted to start central midfielder Carlos Soler on the left in the 3-2 win over Fulham on Tuesday night.Soler scored one and played a role in setting up Tomas Soucek’s goal too.West Ham are desperate to land a striker this month following injury to Niclas Fullkrug, who joins Michail Antonio, Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville on the injury list.Talks have been held over a move for Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi, while RB Leipzig’s Andre Silva is also under consideration.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThey would like to sign Brighton’s Evan Ferguson but the Seagulls are yet to decide whether or not to loan him out.Potter has also identified the midfield as an area in need of improvement, and wants to add a ball-playing holding midfielder this month.Graham Potter is appointed the new manager of West Ham Chelsea duo Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Carney Chukwuemeka have been linked with moves across the capital.Julen Lopetegui’s disastrous reignBy Jack FiggJULEN LOPETEGUI replaced David Moyes in May 2024 ready to start a new reign at West Ham – now it’s over before it even got started.The former Spain manager arrived in London with the experience of working with big stars – but his reputation in England needed mending. He won the Europa League with Sevilla in 2020 – joining Wolves two years later. But Lopetegui left after one season having guided Wolves to 13th but walking out over their financial constraints. Following a year out of work, the ex-Real Madrid player agreed to take over from Moyes – who only 12 months earlier led them to the Europa Conference League trophy. But Lopetegui got off to a horror start to life in London, going winless in his first four matches.That is despite spending £123m on signings with the likes of Maximilian Kilman, Niclas Fullkrug and Aaron Wan-Bissaka arriving in the summer.And Lopetegui’s tenure hit an all-time low following a 5-0 loss at home to Liverpool and 4-1 defeat at Man City. The Hammers board had seen enough and started to draw up potential replacements after deciding to sack Lopetegui. More

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      Graham Potter fits in with modern east London culture and can create togetherness at West Ham, says Karren Brady

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      IN ALL MY years in football, taking the decision to part company with a manager has never been an easy, straightforward, or enjoyable task.Regardless of the fact that it is an unavoidable, familiar part of the game, or that it is a call made purely for sporting reasons, there remains a sense of sadness and disappointment, on a human level, that things haven’t worked out as you had hoped.Karren Brady insisted Julen Lopetegui was sacked for sporting reasonsCredit: GettyLopetegui left with the club in 14th position in the Premier LeagueCredit: ReutersGraham Potter has been hired as the Spaniard’s replacementCredit: GettyAt West Ham United, we have always taken as much care and pride in recruiting the ‘man’ as we have in recruiting the ‘manager’.And so we were disappointed that things didn’t work out with Julen Lopetegui.A good man, a family man, an extremely hard-working man, who was a pleasure to deal with and wanted to be successful here as much as we wanted him to be. We wish Julen and his staff, who worked so well with our team on and off the pitch, all the very best in their future endeavours.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUltimately though, we have an ambitious project at this football club, and we have a responsibility to our loyal and passionate supporters to do all we can to keep that on track.In Graham Potter, we have recruited another very good man, a hugely respected elite Premier League coach, and someone who was the unanimous choice of our Board to steer our project back in the right direction.From our early conversations with Graham, we felt the overwhelming sense that he is the right fit for West Ham United, as are we for him.As Graham himself has said, since leaving Chelsea 20 months ago, he has been waiting for and carefully considering the right opportunity, seeking the challenge and project that would re-ignite the feeling of excitement and anticipation that would inspire his return to top-flight management.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWe are delighted that, despite being highly sought-after by some of the biggest clubs in Europe, he has discovered that feeling with West Ham United.Graham understands and shares our principles – that hard work, togetherness and commitment breeds progress and success.Where it went wrong for Julen Lopetegui at West HamGraham Potter’s managerial careerA brief look at Graham Potter’s managerial career to date…2008 – 2011: Leeds Beckett University Carnegie2011 – 2018: Ostersund 2018 – 2019: Swansea City2019 – 2022: Brighton and Hove Albion2022 – 2023: ChelseaHe was attracted by our ambitious project and the steps we are taking to reach our objectives. And he has found common ground with the core values that our supporters and the people of east London hold dear – a family culture, a sense of belonging to a clear identity, and a dedication to hard graft and craft.Modern east London is a thriving, exciting hub of innovation combined with tradition.A creative centre of opportunity and chance, especially for young people. Graham has already spoken with Mark Noble about his desire to engage with and maximise the talent of our world-renowned Academy – something that is embedded so deeply into the fabric and soul of our club.As Graham has shown throughout his successful coaching career so far, he is adept at building on strong foundations and creating a culture of togetherness, spirit and trust so that, regardless of the outcome of a single 90-minute football match, everyone connected with the club feels a part of something bigger and more significant.Of belonging to an identity that continuously fosters pride, honour and belief.  We believe that the right foundations are in place for further success in the future at West Ham United.It is only 18 months ago that we enjoyed European glory and, while that night in Prague will never be forgotten, there is a genuine and fierce hunger at this club to ensure that we continue to work as hard as possible to build and create more outstanding memories.READ MORE SUN STORIESGraham Potter shares that ambition.That is why we didn’t hesitate to hand him a two-and-a-half-year contract, and that is why we firmly believe we have appointed not only a good man, but the right man for West Ham United.Graham Potter’s Premier League return Graham Potter is back in the Premier League nearly two years on from his Chelsea sack.Potter has replaced Julen Lopetegui at West Ham following the Spaniard’s horror start to the season.It ends Potter’s 20-month wait for a job, having also been linked with the Manchester United and England jobs.The former defender started his coaching career in 2011 in Sweden with Östersunds FK – winning league and cup competitions.He then took over at Swansea in 2018 for one season in the Championship – finishing in 10th.Potter left Wales after just a year to replace Chris Hughton at Brighton where he would make his name.His best finish with the Seagulls was ninth place in 2022 but he joined Chelsea just months later in the September.Potter had replaced Thomas Tuchel, just a season after the German won the Champions League at Stamford Bridge.But Potter was axed seven months into the job with Chelsea left sitting in 11th. 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      West Ham want shock Marcus Rashford transfer as Graham Potter looks to lay down gauntlet with raid for Man Utd outcast

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      WEST HAM have reportedly entered the race to sign Marcus Rashford – just hours after appointing new boss Graham Potter.The wantaway Manchester United striker has barely featured under Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford. West Ham are keeping tabs on Man Utd striker Marcus RashfordCredit: RexGraham Potter has been announced as the Hammers’ new managerCredit: GettyEngland forward Rashford, 27, has been frozen out by Ruben AmorimCredit: ReutersRashford’s future has been up in the air since admitting last month he is “ready for a new challenge.”The 27-year-old forward hasn’t featured in the Premier League since December 7.West Ham announced Potter on Thursday as their new manager after sacking Julen Lopetegui.According to talkSPORT, the Hammers have now “asked to be kept informed” of Rashford’s situation. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPotter talked about building on “strong foundations” as he was unveiled by the club.The ex-Brighton boss said: “I am delighted to be here. “It was important to me that I waited until a job came along that I felt was right for me, and equally that I was the right fit for the club I am joining. “That is the feeling I have with West Ham United.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”My conversations with the chairman and the board have been very positive and constructive, we share the same values of hard work and high energy to create the solid foundations that can produce success.”We are on the same wavelength in terms of what is needed in the short-term and then how we want to move the Club forward in the medium to long term.”Rashford is also reportedly a shock target for Tottenham, who are eying up a surprise loan move.Which football clubs could Marcus Rashford join?Marcus Rashford has struggled at United this seasonAny move away will likely hinge on how much of Rashford’s £325,000-a-week wages United are prepared to pay.Napoli, Juventus, AC Milan, Dortmund and ambitious Italian club Como have all been linked with a move for the Red Devils striker. Last month Rashford stunned the Old Trafford faithful by revealing his intention to leave.Graham Potter’s Premier League return Graham Potter is back in the Premier League nearly two years on from his Chelsea sack.Potter has replaced Julen Lopetegui at West Ham following the Spaniard’s horror start to the season.It ends Potter’s 20-month wait for a job, having also been linked with the Manchester United and England jobs.The former defender started his coaching career in 2011 in Sweden with Östersunds FK – winning league and cup competitions.He then took over at Swansea in 2018 for one season in the Championship – finishing in 10th.Potter left Wales after just a year to replace Chris Hughton at Brighton where he would make his name.His best finish with the Seagulls was ninth place in 2022 but he joined Chelsea just months later in the September.Potter had replaced Thomas Tuchel, just a season after the German won the Champions League at Stamford Bridge.But Potter was axed seven months into the job with Chelsea left sitting in 11th.The striker dropped the bombshell in an unauthorised interview after being exiled by new gaffer Amorim.He told journalist Henry Winter: “For me, personally, I think I’m ready for a new challenge and the next steps.”When I leave it’s going to be, ‘No hard feelings.'”You’re not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That’s me as a person.”If I know that a situation is already bad I’m not going to make it worse.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve seen how other players have left in the past and I don’t want to be that person.”When I leave, I’ll make a statement, and it will be from me.”Graham Potter’s managerial careerA brief look at Graham Potter’s managerial career to date…2008 – 2011: Leeds Beckett University Carnegie2011 – 2018: Ostersund 2018 – 2019: Swansea City2019 – 2022: Brighton and Hove Albion2022 – 2023: Chelsea More

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      Graham Potter confirmed as new West Ham boss after 21 months unemployed as Julen Lopetegui sacked in brutal statement

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      GRAHAM POTTER has been confirmed as West Ham’s new head coach following a 21-month break from football.The 49-year-old replaces Julen Lopetegui, who was dismissed by the Hammers on Wednesday after just six months in the job.Graham Potter has been announced as the new West Ham managerCredit: PAJulen Lopetegui was sacked on WednesdayCredit: PAHe has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the clubCredit: ReutersAnnouncing Lopetegui’s departure, a statement from West Ham read: “The first half of the 2024/25 season has not aligned with the Club’s ambitions and the Club has therefore taken action in line with its objectives.”The East London side wanted to line up a suitable replacement before announcing Lopetegui’s departure.Club officials opened talks with Potter this week before quickly sealing a deal.The new head coach has penned a two-and-a-half year contract.Read More in FootballPotter has insisted that his break from the game has been down to him making sure he wanted to wait for the right fit.He said: “I am delighted to be here. It was important to me that I waited until a job came along that I felt was right for me, and equally that I was the right fit for the club I am joining. That is the feeling I have with West Ham United.”My conversations with the chairman and the board have been very positive and constructive, we share the same values of hard work and high energy to create the solid foundations that can produce success, and we are on the same wavelength in terms of what is needed in the short-term and then how we want to move the Club forward in the medium to long term.”West Ham United is a huge club, at the heart of London, with a tremendous fanbase and great support all around the world. I saw the scenes that followed their Europa Conference League victory in 2023 and it was clear that this is a club with everything in place to become consistently successful, both on and off the pitch.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The club have made a lot of good progress in recent years and ensured there are some very strong foundations in place to build on.”You don’t win a European trophy by fluke – there has to be a good bedrock at a football club for that to happen, and the challenge now is to take that on and build the next steps, to develop a team and a club that the supporters can be proud of.”Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager Lopetegui v Potter: The statsGraham PotterCareer win rate: 38.6 %Games managed: 440 gamesPremier League win rate: 28.3 %Honours: Swedish Cup Winner (2016/17)Clubs managed: Ostersund, Swansea, Brighton, ChelseaJulen LopeteguiCareer win rate: 54.9%Games managed: 419 gamesPremier League win rate: 34.4 per centHonours: Europa League (2019/20), U19 & U20 EurosClubs managed: Rayo Vallencano, Spain Youth, Porto, Spain, Real Madrid, Sevilla, Wolves, West HamHe will take charge of his first match this Friday when the Hammers face Aston Villa in the FA Cup third round.Prior to his appointment, Potter had been out of work since April 2023 – when he left Chelsea following a poor run of results.He was dismissed by the Blues just seven months into his time at Stamford Bridge.Prior to his stint with Chelsea, Potter spent three years with Brighton.The ex-defender has also managed Swansea, Ostersund and Leeds Carnegie.Potter will have to juggle his West Ham job with a new role at the Professional Footballers’ Association.The former Chelsea boss joined the PFA Business School this week as course co-director for the certificate in Football Psychology, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership.Potter takes over at West Ham with the club 14th in the Premier League table.His first Prem match at the London Stadium will be a derby clash with Fulham next Tuesday.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is expected to name former Stoke City manager Narcis Pelach as a first-team coach at the club.Bruno Saltor will also join Potter as his assistant and Billy Reid as another first-team coach. More

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      Graham Potter to appoint former Championship manager to West Ham staff just 13 days after he was sacked from last job

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      GRAHAM POTTER will appoint a recently sacked Championship manager to be in his staff at West Ham.The former Chelsea boss is expected to be named as the new Hammers manager today.Graham Potter is expected to be named the West Ham managerCredit: AFPNarcis Pelach will arrive a coach despite being sacked by Stoke City in DecemberCredit: RexPotter, 49, arrives at the London Stadium as the successor to Julen Lopetegui.The Spaniard was sacked after just seven months in charge of the club.He only won six of his 20 Premier League games leaving the club in 14th place in the table.Lopetegui’s backroom staff have also left the club, with only goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero remaining.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPotter will therefore name Narcis Pelachone of his first-team coaches at the club.The Spaniard has previously coached at the likes of Huddersfield Town and Norwich City.The 36-year-old landed his first managerial job in England in September as he was appointed Stoke City boss.However, he was axed just 13 days ago, on December 27, after winning just three of his 19 matches in charge.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe also had time as a player and played for the likes of Spanish sides Cassa, Manlleu, Palamos and Figueres.Pelach’s playing career came to an early end as he retired at the age of just 27.Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager West Ham’s first game without Lopetegui in charge will come against Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday night at Villa Park.Potter will have to get to work quickly in order to steady the sinking West Ham ship.The club forked out £127.5million in the summer on stars such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Max Kilman and Crysencio Summerville.But results on the pitch have gone backwards from the time under David Moyes.Potter will also have to find a way to get the team firing without talisman captain Jarrod Bowen.The England international is currently sidelined with a fractured foot and is not expected back until February at the earliest.Lopetegui v Potter: The statsGraham PotterCareer win rate: 38.6 %Games managed: 440 gamesPremier League win rate: 28.3 %Honours: Swedish Cup Winner (2016/17)Clubs managed: Ostersund, Swansea, Brighton, ChelseaJulen LopeteguiCareer win rate: 54.9%Games managed: 419 gamesPremier League win rate: 34.4 per centHonours: Europa League (2019/20), U19 & U20 EurosClubs managed: Rayo Vallencano, Spain Youth, Porto, Spain, Real Madrid, Sevilla, Wolves, West Ham More

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      Graham Potter lands new job as West Ham await decision on whether he will replace Julen Lopetegui as manager

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      GRAHAM POTTER has landed a new job… just as he holds talks about becoming West Ham manager.The former Chelsea boss emerged as the leading candidate to replace Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium this week.Graham Potter has landed a new job with the PFACredit: GettyWest Ham officials have reportedly held talks with him over the role and they are now waiting for a response before they finalise and confirm Lopetegui’s dismissal.It was revealed last month that Potter would be open to the job.But in the meantime, the 49-year-old has landed a new role with the Professional Footballers’ Association.Potter has joined the PFA Business School as course co-director for the certificate in Football Psychology, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe department looks at the emotional challenges players face during a season as well as the mental approach to matches and fatigue.According to the PFA website, the Certificate in Football Psychology, Emotional Intelligence and Leadership will “help students to develop their leadership skills in football and to encourage their players and team to achieve better results.”Reflecting on his own experience when discussing his new role, Potter said: “In the end education helped me become a better person and a better player.”In football sometimes you prepare all week and you lose a game and it doesn’t feel very good.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Whereas studying just gave me a sense that you can work and you can achieve something and nobody can take that away from you. You always have that qualification, you’ve always got it.”So it’s quite a nice balance in the volatile world of football.”Graham Potter in talks to replace West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui Potter has been out of work in management since leaving Chelsea in April 2023.He was dismissed by the Blues just seven months into his time at Stamford Bridge following a run of poor form.Prior to his stint with Chelsea, Potter spent three years with Brighton.The former left-back has also managed Swansea, Ostersund and Leeds Carnegie. More

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      Hilarious reason Danny Dyer takes credit for West Ham’s Boxing Day victory revealed after Jarrod Bowen nets winner

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      ACTOR Danny Dyer has claimed credit for West Ham’s 1-0 Boxing Day victory — because scorer Jarrod Bowen was allowed to eat his roast spuds on Christmas Day.Hammers striker Bowen, 28, who has to keep to a strict diet, got the all-clear from the club’s nutritionist before the festive feast at fiancée Dani’s dad’s house.Danny Dyer, pictured with Hammers star Jarrod Bowen, has taken credit for his side’s Boxing Day winAfter getting the okay, he called Dani to inform her famous Dad – who had been planning a special energy-fuelling pasta plate for Bowen.Next day, Bowen scored the 59th-minute winner against Southampton in the Premier League clash.Former EastEnders star Danny, 47, a West Ham fan, told a podcast: “We were a bit s**** — and one man won us that game, full of my potatoes and parsnips.“So in a way I’m claiming that victory because he was full up with my grub. He had the energy, he f*** won us that game because he’s such a hero.”READ MORE ON DANNY DYERDani and Jarrod got engaged on a romantic boat trip in Ibiza this summer.The pair escaped for a minibreak, leaving their one-year-old twin daughters Star and Summer at home with family, along with Dani’s son Santiago, three, from a previous relationship.But when you’re Love Island royalty and your hubby-to-be is a Premier League footballer, curating an intimate guest list isn’t easy. In fact, Dani has admitted that it’s something she’s “found so difficult”.Most read in Football“I would say it’s as intimate and small as it can be,” she shared on Instagram today. “I honestly can see why people elope and then have a big party, because the guest list I honestly found so difficult. Dani Dyer is engaged to Jarrod Bowen“I’m getting married in like five months. “I can’t believe it.“I’m so excited for you all to see.”The footballer with Danny’s daughter DaniCredit: Instagram More

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      Michail Antonio discharged from hospital after horror car crash with West Ham to hold talks over his future soon

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      MICHAIL ANTONIO has been discharged from hospital following his horror car crash.The West Ham striker, 34, was airlifted to a London hospital and suffered a broken leg after crashing his £260,000 Ferrari near Theydon Bois, Essex, in early December.Michail Antonio suffered a broken leg in a horror crash earlier this monthCredit: REUTERSThe Hammers skipper was lucky to escape the wreckage of his car aliveCredit: STEVE BELLAntonio has finally been discharged from hospitalCredit: GETTYWest Ham have raised just shy of £60,000 for the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity as a thank you for their support.Antonio’s crash occurred in Epping on the way home from the Hammers’ Rush Green training ground and he underwent surgery on the broken leg that night.Hammers players all wore shirts bearing Antonio’s name following their home win over Wolves, the first game following the crash.Each of those, as well as the match-worn shirts, were signed and auctioned off to fans in order to raise cash.READ MORE ON ANTONIOThe auction raised a total of £29,613 which was matched by the West Ham board, making a total of £59,226 to be split between the two causes.Jarrod Bowen scored West Ham’s winner against Wolves and his shirt raised the most – selling for £3005.The Hammers captain said: “It’s been special to see the West Ham family and the wider football community come together in support of Mic over the last month.“We are all grateful for the care that both the NHS and Air Ambulances UK have given to Mic during a challenging time for him and his family.Most read in FootballMichail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game.”And for what they continue to do every single day for people around the country.”Pulling together during difficult times is what being a part of West Ham United is all about and on behalf of the team I want to thank everyone for helping us to raise an incredible amount of money for two great causes.”West Ham stars pay tribute to Antonio with special shirts after pal’s horror crashWest Ham players and staff all went to visit their team-mate during his time in hospital.Antonio is now recovering at home and will not play again this season.The Jamaica international, West Ham’s all-time top Premier League scorer, is out of contract in the summer.A decision is yet to be made over whether to extend his deal in order to cover the recovery, though discussions will take place in the near future.West Ham previously extended Angelo Ogbonna’s deal following a season-ending knee injury in 2021.West Ham have yet to make a decision on Michail Antonio’s futureCredit: Getty More

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      West Ham icon Ludek Miklosko reveals heartbreaking cancer battle and stops treatment to ‘enjoy best quality of life’

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      WEST HAM hero Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s been battling cancer for the last few years.The former Hammers stopper discovered he was fighting the deadly disease three years ago after finding a small lump on his hip.Former West Ham goalkeeper Ludek Miklosko has revealed he’s battling cancerCredit: GETTYMiklosko discovered he had a growth on his hip three years agoCredit: GETTYBut it later emerged the former Czech stopper had an inoperable tumour in his stomach along with several smaller onesCredit: REXThe 63-year-old has opted not to undergo chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee him would be a successCredit: GETTYThe 63-year-old’s initial treatment went well, although doctors failed to discover several other tumours in his body – including an inoperable stomach tumour.Miklosko underwent radiotherapy to shrink the growth but doctors soon discovered there were several other tumours.The only option left for Miklosko was chemotherapy, which doctors couldn’t guarantee would be a success.So the retired keeper has made the heartbreaking decision not to have treatment to ensure he has the best quality in his final days.READ MORE WEST HAM NEWSExplaining his decision, he told West Ham’s official website: “I was thinking about this, and had another conversation with the doctor in Ostrava.”And it was made clear to me that there could be no guarantees that it would work. “Maybe it would help to slow it down a little bit, but it would not stop it and there would be other issues to deal with.“I decided not to take the chemotherapy, because I want to live a normal life.Most read in FootballThe day Miklosko denied Man Utd the titleBy Henry TomlinsonLUDEK MIKLOSKO was once responsible for denying Manchester United a Premier League title.On the final day of the 1994/95 season, the Red Devils travelled to the former home of West Ham, the Boleyn Ground.Sir Alex Ferguson’s side needed to better the result of Blackburn in order to secure their third successive title.The Hammers had confirmed their spot in the league with a 3-0 win over Liverpool in the match before.Despite having nothing to play for, Michael Hughes caused a shock when he put the hosts ahead.Brian McClair levelled for Man United after the break and put them just one goal from claiming the title.However, Miklosko put in a brilliant performance in which he denied Ferguson’s men time and time again.Blackburn lost their match at Anfield 2-1 but the draw would not be enough for Man United.Miklosko spoke about the game in 2020 and has admitted he never tires of talking about it.He said: “I have been asked about the 1-1 draw with Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground in May 1995 so many times, but I will never get tired of talking about it.“In fact, I was at Manchester United’s training ground recently with some young goalkeepers – I am now a player representative – and there were staff members there who remembered that game.“Some of them came up to me and talked about the game and a few of them said ‘I was there and remember that game and I hated you!’. We had a good laugh about it.“It was one of those games when everything went for me, but it was also a good team performance, too.“We scored a good goal and we defended so well to stop Manchester United, who were a very good team and wanted to win the title on the final day of the season.””I have very good people around me, and I have my work and my football, which is my life, all I have known. I want to keep doing that for as long as I can.”Miklosko was put off undergoing the gruelling and debilitating chemo once it was made clear to him that his entire life would be put on hold.Meet West Ham wonderkid Kaelan CaseyHe said: “When they told me about what the chemotherapy would mean, it was a case of not being able to work or be around my colleagues for around six months, not travel, have some sickness and everything else.”And I said, ‘No – I do not want that. There is no point. “I want to live my life.'”Miklosko will be in attendance at the Olympic Stadium this evening for the Hammers’ clash with Prem table-toppers Liverpool.The club will pay tribute to their former keeper ten minutes before kick-off.Miklosko is looking forward to returning to East London, saying: “It will be very special to me.Ludek Miklosko has opted not to undergo chemotherapy in order to have a better quality of lifeCredit: REX“And, of course, the supporters. “After all these years, they still remember me, still sing my name, and that is a great feeling.“I have two football clubs in my heart, Banik Ostrava and West Ham United, and in a funny way they are very similar. “Even the mentality of the fans, very similar. Hard-working people, loyal and passionate. “If I am ever doing an interview here in the Czech Republic, I am always saying this and making this comparison.“West Ham United is my second family. And I really am looking forward to seeing everyone on Sunday.”Miklosko was in attendance for West Ham’s Europa Conference League final triumph against Fiorentina last summer.Ludek Miklosko has fond memories of his time with West HamCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdMiklosko upped sticks from his native Czech Republic with his wife and son in February 1990 to join the Hammers. He’d go on to make 318 appearances for the East Londoners during an eight-year stint. Miklosko and his family enjoyed their time in England, so much that his son asked him to move back to Old Blighty after they returned to the Czech Republic. He told The Athletic: “When we moved back to [the] Czech Republic, my son begged me and his mum to leave him in England.“He went from saying, ‘Why on earth are we here?’ to wanting to stay there without us. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Seeing my son overcome his struggles put a big smile on my face. Me joining “West Ham worked out well for all of us.” More