Here comes the sun

  • by Staff Writer
  • Monday, 13th February 2017

West Ham's first team squad are off to Dubai this week for a spot of 'warm weather' training.

It has become almost as traditional at the winter and summer transfer windows in recent years, as the Hammers once again jet off to warmer climes ahead of their next fixture in a fortnight's time.

Starting five years ago, when Sam Allardyce was at the helm, the first team squad has jetted to the United Arab Emirates every winter for the chance to train in clement conditions in a relaxed atmosphere.

Last year the travelling party stayed at the luxurious JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel in Dubai, although they have also used the equally grand Palm Dubai in previous years as a base.

Meanwhile, during the days the squad will be heading for the FIFA-approved Sports City complex, which contains a full-sized indoor pitch (to ensure privacy) and two further full-size outdoor surfaces.



Enner Valencia, Adrian and Cheik Kouyate pose for a pic during 2015's trip to Dubai.


Co-chairman David Sullivan said: With a two-week break until our next game the squad are flying to Dubai this week for a warm-weather training camp.

"It is an important trip that will provide the opportunity for the players to work hard in beneficial conditions, and I am sure they will come back refreshed, re-energised and ready for the Premier League run-in."

* How beneficial have the mid-season breaks been to West Ham in the past? Take a look below to find out.


First five back
How a rejuvenated West Ham performed after returning from Dubai.

2011/12 (February 2012): 7/15 Pts
Spurs (h) 2-3
Stoke (a) 1-0
Chelsea (a) 0-2
West Brom (h) 3-1
Liverpool (a) 0-0

2012/13 (February 2013): 7/15 Pts
Cardiff (a) 2-0
Watford (h) 1-1
Doncaser (h) 1-1
Leeds Utd (a) 1-1
Middlesbrough (h) 1-1

2013/14 (February 2014): 9/15 Pts
Southampton (h) 3-1
Everton (a) 0-1
Stoke City (a) 3-1
Man Utd (h) 0-2
Hull City (h) 2-1

2014/15 (March 2015): 4/15 Pts
Arsenal (a) 0-3
Sunderland (h) 1-0
Leicester (a) 1-2
Stoke (h) 1-1
Man City (a) 0-2

* Something to say about this story? Please visit the KUMB Forum to leave a comment.



More News