by Staff Writer
Wednesday, 2nd July 2025
Enjoy our daily round-up of today's stories involving West Ham United not covered elsewhere in KUMB's news section.
Todibo is to do
West Ham central defender Jean-Clair Todibo was frequently accused of being unfit last season as a result of the number of times he failed to complete 90 minutes.
And possibly in order to shake off concerns about his fitness levels with the 2025/26 campaign rapidly approaching, the 25-year-old has been working hard ahead of pre-season - in Los Angeles, of all places.
The French centre half self-published a number of pictures showing him working out in the extreme heat of California ahead of a return to pre-season training with West Ham next week.
And by the looks of it, Todibo - who cost West Ham €40million when his permanent transfer was triggered in April - is getting himself in shape nicely for the forthcoming campaign.
Javi that
Former West Ham goalkeeping coach Javi Valero is back in work after agreeing to return to former club Liverpool as Head Goalkeeping Coach.
Valero left West Ham after seven years in east London at the end of last season, having worked under Manuel Pellegrini, David Moyes, Julen Lopetegui and Graham Potter prior to moving on.
And now the Spanish coach has returned to Anfield as the Reds' new lead goalkeeper coach, where he will replace Fabian Otte and Claudio Taffarel, both of whom recently parted company with the Merseyside club.
Valero was previously signed by Liverpool in 2007, before following Spanish manager Rafa Benitez to Inter Milan, Napoli and Real Madrid prior to arriving at West Ham in 2018.
The Fonte of all knowledge
Jose Fonte, who spent just over a year on West Ham United's book between 2017 and 2018 has signed a new contract with Portuguese Primeira Liga side Casa Pia - at the ripe old age of 41.
The central defender, signed from Southampton in the 2017 winter transfer window featured 26 times for the Lisbon-based team last season and has been rewarded for his longevity with a new one-year contract.
Casa Pia, who were briefly managed by current Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, finished ninth in the Portuguese league last season.
Get your boots on!
The West Ham United Foundation, in conjunction with the Premier League Fans Fund and ActiveUnited Walking Sports have teamed up to offer walking football and boccia sessions to football fans living with Parkinson's Disease.
Taking place on Tuesday 22 July and starting at 4pm, the three-hour event is described as "an opportunity to connect and engage with accessible walking football and boccia sessions". The event is open to all ages, although those aged under 18 must attend with a parent or legal guardian.
Additionally physical activity taster sessions will be provided while the Any Old Irons Singing Group will be on site to provide a little aural pleasure. To book your place - of which limited numbers are available - contact the team at health@westhamunited.co.uk.
Bring the noise
Ironworks Alliance, the supporters group which is campaigning to instill a meaningful atmosphere at the London Olympic Stadium have requested that supporters who like to make a bit of noise join them for the pre-season friendly against Lille on Saturday 9 August.
The group will be congregating in Block 145 of the London Olympic Stadium and have requested that like-minded fans boost their numbers for the match.
"Join us in block 145 where we will be aiming to make some noise, regardless of the result," read a post on the group's social media channel. "We also hope to have a small pre-match display in the stands.
"No ultras, no drums, just likeminded West Ham fans that want to support the team and enjoy the day for what it is." Fans interested in making a bit of noise are asked to complete this form.
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