digest duty for the next 5 days.
PeterR
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Galey's View - WHUFC
Well, I'd like to say I told you so but I got it completely wrong. What I
did get right is that I thought we'd stay up and we did. No one could have
imagined Wigan winning at Sheffield United and us nicking a win at Old
Trafford. Admittedly, United were not as committed as usual but, bearing in
mind they had a Cup final a week later, it was understandable that some of
their star players didn't want to get injured. You still have to capitalise
on that - and we did, which is all credit to the lads' attitude and Curbs
and the staff seeing it out to the bitter end. What I don't like is all the
moaning and sniping that's going on about the Tevez situation. What it has
done is take the gloss off a magnificent run of winning seven games out of
the last nine. It really has been a Steve McQueen job - a real great escape!
Hopefully now in the summer a lot of the bleating will stop. There's been a
lot of talk of court cases and all sorts but the fact is we stayed up on
merit and the others can't live with it. Now they're looking for a way out
through the law courts. To my mind, the Premier League asked for an
independent tribunal which the Clubs also voted for. They got their result
and now they don't like it. Unfortunately for them they've got to live with
it and I can't see the decision being reversed. I'm sure it's going to be a
busy summer in the transfer market for Curbs and Eggert and we're all
looking forward to seeing some new quality signings. I'm sure Alan knows who
he wants in and who he wants out. I bet he, like the rest of us, can't wait
for the new season and a fresh start.
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Mixed night for Hammer Hogan - WHUFC
18/05/2007 13:42
It was a night of mixed emotions for Hammers youngster Hogan Ephraim as he
scored and was subsequently sent off as England's Under 19s crashed out of
UEFA European Championship qualifiers. Last night's 2-1 defeat to Holland
at the Ricoh Arena saw Scott Goldbourne score an own goal and Jordy Bujis
put the ball in from the penalty spot before Hogan pulled a goal back for
England in the 90th minute with a curling effort. Sadly for the Hammers
youngster he was red-carded seconds later for a late lunge on Bujis as
England failed to qualify for the European Championships.
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Tevez: Time for a change - Sky
By Patricio Figueroa - Created on 18 May 2007
Carlos Tevez has revealed 'it's the time to join a European giant', but
admits West Ham United still have the priority over his future. The
Argentine's stunning form in the closing weeks of the season kept The
Hammers in the Premiership, following his controversial transfer to Upton
Park. Relegated Sheffield United are leading a legal challenge after West
Ham were not docked points due to the ineligibility of Tevez, and his
compatriot Javier Mascherano. Tevez is aiming to shake off the fuss
surrounding his move from Corinthians, organised by MSI owner Kia
Joorabchian. But while the forward is indebted to The Hammers, he feels it
is time to transfer his undoubted talents to a leading European club. "First
of all, I must say that I don't know anything about Real Madrid, but if
there are rumours it must be because there is something true in all that,"
said Tevez at a press conference in Buenos Aires. "The Spanish and the
Italian leagues haven't finished yet, and even in England the giant teams
are playing a final, so I don't think they will be thinking at this moment
of making an offer for any player. "Despite any offer that could arrive,
what I want to say is that West Ham has the priority. "Now I think it's the
time to change to a new team, a European giant. "I have already spoken about
that with my agent and with Kia, but I repeat that the priority belongs to
West Ham because they have been incredible with me. "They have treated me
and Mascherano in a great way since the first day we arrived in England.
"Kia is my friend, he is also a friend of my family and the owner of my
transfer, and we always decide together everything that I do in my career."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Eggert angered by comments - Sky
By Chris Stanton - Created on 18 May 2007
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson has accused Sheffield United of dragging
his club's reputation through the mud over the Carlos Tevez affair. United,
in league with former relegation rivals Wigan, have vehemently protested
over the Premier League's decision to only fine The Hammers, rather than
dock the East Londoners points.
The Blades' appeal is all the more bitter given the club's relegation last
week, but Magnusson insists his club have no case to answer, even if he does
sympathise with United's plight. "I have not called anyone at Sheffield.
It's difficult. But I feel for them. It's difficult to go down," Magnusson
told the Daily Telegraph. "But I feel that some things that have been said
about this great club are unjustified. "From my point of view both Tevez and
(Javier) Mascherano were registered correctly on 31st August and the
registration of Tevez has been correct from that date until the end of the
season. "There should be no dispute. There have been all sorts of
misinterpretations on this but everyone agrees on this, including Fifa and
the Premier League."
Magnusson insists he hold no grudges against Tevez's owner, Kia Joorabchian,
who helped orchestrate the original deal back in August. "There hasn't been
too much of a relationship between Kia and myself. But I cannot hold him
responsible for what happened here. He probably didn't know anything about
the fact that these third-party agreements were not disclosed to the Premier
League," added Magnusson. "When I took over the club, I had no idea until
January that these agreements had not been disclosed to the Premier League.
I had no way of knowing that, how would I? I am sure he didn't know anything
about that. I have no bitterness towards him, why should I? "Sometime in the
near future I hope to have a meeting with him. We will sit down and discuss
Tevez's future."
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Tev eyeing move to European giant - teamTalk
West Ham and Argentina striker Carlos Tevez has revealed he wants to play
for a "European giant" next season. The Hammers star was instrumental in his
club's successful fight against Premiership relegation, but is now after a
move to a bigger team. Asked about reported interest from Real Madrid,
Liverpool and Manchester United, he said: "I'm delighted several teams are
looking at me. Nobody has talked to me, but I assume that it must be true.
"I want a transfer to a European giant, even though West Ham has been my
priority as since I arrived there they have treated me very well. The people
there are affectionate. "The culture is very different. I like it as it is
peaceful. For the past four years I couldn't go out to walk on the streets.
"They fans love me because of my personality and because I give everything
on the field. It is unbelievable that they scream 'Argentina'." Tevez also
admits he is desperate to play in the Copa America this summer and in all
the national team's friendly matches. "I talked with (Argentina coach Alfio)
Basile and I told him that I'm in good shape and that I don't need to go on
holiday," he continued. "I want to be involved in Argentina's friendlies
matches and in the Copa America. For the Albiceleste I would even play as a
goalkeeper."
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Should I stay or should I go? - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 19th May 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Carlos Tevez has announced that he would be delighted to play for West Ham
United next season. The 23-year-old striker, speaking in a hastily arranged
press conference in Puerto Madero yesterday lunchtime revealed that the
prospect of a second season at the Boleyn Ground wasn't beyond the realms of
possibility. However Tevez - who returned to Argentina on Tuesday morning
following his final appearance for United at Old Trafford - also sent out a
clear message to Europe's major powers that he would be open to any tempting
offers. "My priority is West Ham because since I arrived they have treated
me very well and with much affection," he said. "But it excites me that
several teams are considering me. I want to play for a great European team.
"They have not communicated with me, but I suppose that [the rumours] must
be true."
So we're none the wiser, perhaps. However it is clear that Tevez feels
genuine affection for the Hammers, as he later revealed in the press
conference when asked about his year in London. "They warmed to me because
of how I am, and because I leave my heart on the field," he added. "It was
hard to adapt at first; English football is more physical than technical.
The culture is very different, very high level. "But I like the
tranquility. Four years ago I couldn't even go out for a walk."
Tevez ended the press conference by wishing his friend and mentor Diego
Maradona, who has been suffering from illness, a speedy recovery. "I feel
very badly whenever something happens to him," he said. "All we want is for
him to be well - and I hope that he recovers".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Never Ether - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 18th May 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham have rejected a £3m bid from Wigan for Matthew Etherington,
according to the Independent. The bid - received earlier today - was
instantly dismissed by the Hammers, who are less than willing to do business
with the Latics given the recent comments and threats of litigation made by
Chairman Dave Whelan. Winger Etherington is one of a number of players
destined for the chop this summer as Alan Curbishley prepares to shuffle the
pack in preparation for the 2007/08 season. Others likely to be moving
elsewhere include John Paintsil, Tye Mears, Carlton Cole and Marlon
Harewood, who is interesting a number of Premier League and Championship
clubs. 41-year-old Teddy Sheringham has already been released.
* The Indy also claim that Yossi Benayoun has agreed to extend his time at
West Ham by signing a bumper new deal. Benayoun's existing contract has two
years left to run, and he rejected a new deal earlier this year after Kia
Joorabchian's bid to buy the Hammers ended in failure. But the Israeli
international captain is thought to have had a change of heart since the
Hammers avoided relegation last weekend.
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Harry's guide to 4 ex-Hammers - The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
MAY 19, 2007
RIO FERDINAND proved he was up for the cup at just 15 — when he tore Chelsea
to shreds in his first big match. Ferdinand faces the Blues again as one of
four players in today's FA Cup final to have been groomed by Harry Redknapp
at West Ham. The England defender links up with Manchester United team-mate
Michael Carrick against former Hammers pals Joe Cole and Frank Lampard.
SunSport columnist Redknapp recalled: "Rio had only just signed up to us
when the boys got to the final of the Southern Junior Floodlit Cup. It was a
prestigious tournament in those days, second only to the FA Youth Cup. "West
Ham lost 4-2 at Upton Park in the first leg and to everyone at the club it
seemed the tie was over — it was Chelsea's for the taking. "On the night of
the second leg at Stamford Bridge, the first team were away so I could not
attend. "But Tony Carr, West Ham's astute youth team manager, decided to
throw Rio into the game to see how he got on. "He had to get him out of
school that day to play and I didn't ask how he did it! "That evening, I
got a call from my dad, Harry. "He loved watching the lads and he had gone
to Chelsea to watch the game. He called me that night absolutely gushing
down the phone. "West Ham had won 5-1 and took the trophy, destroying the
Chelsea team on their own pitch. "And he told me he had just watched the
best player he had ever seen. He was so excited. "He told me the lad's name
was Rio Ferdinand. I had seen him play a bit but didn't know too much about
him. We did from then on." Ferdinand eventually took command of the West Ham
defence before arriving at Manchester United via Leeds. Portsmouth boss
Redknapp added: "Even at 16 years old, I would describe him as a Rolls-Royce
of a player. Pacy and elegant. "I could see he was going to be a star, the
best defender in Europe — which he achieved. "What a shame they aren't all
still playing for West Ham. To have a nucleus of a team like that and to see
it all disappear must be so disappointing for West Ham supporters. "All four
are good, proper, working-class lads. "In a game which seems to have left
its roots behind, they still represent where football came from. "They fully
appreciate the FA Cup's significance."
FERDINAND'S WEST HAM CAREER: Born: Nov 7, 1978. Signed: 1995. Left: 2000.
Apps: 127. Goals: 2.
FRANK LAMPARD
REDKNAPP: "The most determined young player. No one worked harder or was
more committed than Frank to making it as a professional. His attitude was
superb, even as a youngster. "I've watched him grow up and, as my nephew, I
would be lying if I said I wasn't bothered who wins the cup final. I'll be
rooting for Frank."
LAMPARD'S WEST HAM CAREER — Born: Jun 21, 1978. Signed: 1994. Left: 2001.
Apps: 148. Goals: 24.
JOE COLE
REDKNAPP: "The most naturally-talented kid I ever saw. As an 11-year-old,
you could ask him to do anything. A genius. He really had it all by the time
he was in secondary school. "Joe's feet are still firmly on the ground
despite his success. "But I bet you would get a lot more now than the
£6.6million Chelsea paid for him in 2003."
COLE'S WEST HAM CAREER — Born: Nov 8, 1981. Signed: 1998. Left: 2003. Apps:
126. Goals: 10.
MICHAEL CARRICK
REDKNAPP: "A late developer. Then he seemed to shoot up from 5ft 6in to 6ft
1in in a week! "But his body couldn't support him. He was all gangly arms
and legs. His brain was that of a seasoned pro but his legs couldn't keep
up. "He has caught up in all the right departments now and I love watching
him alongside Paul Scholes."
CARRICK'S WEST HAM CAREER — Born: Jul 28, 1981. Signed: 1998. Left: 2004.
Apps: 136. Goals: 6
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tevez: I'm off to Europe - the Sun
By ERIC BEAUCHAMP
May 19, 2007
CARLOS TEVEZ revealed he will break West Ham hearts by joining one of
Europe's big guns. Real Madrid and Inter Milan are gearing up for a
£30million battle to land the Argie forward after his heroics helped Hammers
escape relegation. Tevez, 23, confirmed he has set his sights on a move to
Spain or Italy as he waits for his future to be resolved. He said: "I really
want to join one of Europe's biggest clubs. That's what I've talked to my
representatives about. "I don't know about the interest from Real but it
makes me happy that such an important club is interested in me. "We don't
currently have any offers because the Spanish season is still on and the big
English sides are in the FA Cup final and the Champions League final.
"People at West Ham were incredible and I'll never forget that. But I want
to play for one of Europe's greats."
Tevez could not believe the reception he received at Old Trafford last week
after his goal beat Manchester United and kept West Ham up. He explained: "I
had an uncle who was in the Falkland Islands. I know how the war left him.
"For the English fans to shout 'Argentina, Argentina' for me as they did at
Old Trafford is unexplainable. "That they love me and see me as an idol is
fantastic."
e.beauchamp@the-sun.co.uk
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Hammers reject Wigan's £3m bid for Etherington - The Independent
By Jason Burt and Andy Hunter
Published: 19 May 2007
Wigan Athletic have made a bid of about £3m to sign Matthew Etherington from
West Ham United. Unsurprisingly, given the bad feeling between the two clubs
over the Carlos Tevez affair, the offer, and its timing, is thought to have
been met with some incredulity at Upton Park and been rejected out of hand.
Nevertheless, the likelihood is that the unsettled 25-year-old winger, who
almost joined Fulham in the January transfer window, will leave, although
West Ham are believed to be demanding a far higher transfer fee than has
been currently lodged by Wigan.
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has led the so-called "gang of four" clubs who
are protesting at the Premier League's decision to allow Tevez to continue
playing for West Ham even though at an inquiry they admitted breaking rules
on third-party ownership.
Having narrowly avoided relegation, Wigan are themselves wasting no time in
re-building their squad and are hopeful that they will sign Lee Carsley from
Everton. The 33-year-old midfielder is out of contract this summer and
although he will be offered a new deal at Goodison Park, it is unlikely that
the terms will match what has been tabled by Wigan.
At the same time, West Ham have identified Scott Parker as their first
serious transfer target. Sources at Newcastle United claim that the
26-year-old's future at the club is in the balance following the arrival of
new manager Sam Allardyce. This has not gone unnoticed by West Ham manager
Alan Curbishley who is keen to build his midfield around a player he groomed
at Charlton Athletic before he moved to Chelsea for £10m.
Newcastle are likely to demand at least £7m for Parker who, although
captain, has endured a difficult time at St James' Park through injury and
the under-achievements of the team. If he moved back to London it would
raise further question marks over the future of West Ham's Nigel Reo-Coker
although sources insist no decision as yet been taken as to whether he will
leave.
One player who is not now departing West Ham is Yossi Benayoun who had
demanded a transfer after appearing to fall out with Curbishley. However the
Israel international spoke to the manager on Wednesday and held a meeting
with the club on Thursday when he received assurances that he will be a
first-team regular next season. Benayoun, who has two years left on his
present deal, is also likely to receive a new improved contract which will
see his wages rise from £25,000 to around £40,000 a week.
West Ham want to sort out the futures of players such as Anton Ferdinand,
Paul Konchesky and Marlon Harewood before they start spending. They will
monitor developments over Mark Viduka, out of contract at Middlesbrough, and
Charlton's Darren Bent - two strikers they attempted to sign in January and
who appear certain to leave their clubs.
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Benayoun U-turn: New West Ham deal on table
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
Yossi Benayoun is staying with West Ham United. The Independent says the
Israel international spoke to manager Alan Curbishley on Wednesday and held
a meeting with West Ham officials on Thursday where he received assurances
that he will be a first-team regular next season. Benayoun, who has two
years left on his present deal, is also likely to receive a new improved
contract which will see his wages rise from £25,000 to around £40,000 a
week.
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West Ham to offer £7M for Newcastle's Parker
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
West Ham United are stepping up their plans to land Newcastle United captain
Scott Parker. The Independent says sources at Newcastle United claim that
the 26-year-old's future at the club is in the balance following the arrival
of new manager Sam Allardyce. This has not gone unnoticed by West Ham
manager Alan Curbishley who is keen to build his midfield around a player he
groomed at Charlton Athletic before he moved to Chelsea for £10m. Newcastle
are likely to demand at least £7m for Parker who, although captain, has
endured a difficult time at St James' Park through injury and the
under-achievements of the team.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reject Wigan offer for Etherington
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
Wigan Athletic have had a £3 million bid for West Ham winger Matthew
Etherington turned down.
Unsurprisingly, given the bad feeling between the two clubs over the Carlos
Tevez affair, the offer, and its timing, is thought to have been met with
some incredulity at Upton Park and been rejected out of hand.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers 'hoping to bag Bellamy' - teamTalk
West Ham are resigned to losing Carlos Tevez to a top Spanish club in the
summer - and could replace him with Liverpool's Craig Bellamy. Tevez's
end-of-season form was a crucial factor in the Hammers' great escape from
the Premiership relegation trap door. But the 23-year-old Argentina ace's
days at Upton Park look numbered, with a switch to the Primera Liga widely
expected in the coming weeks. Real Madrid are leading the chase for Tevez's
services, and attention in the East End has already turned to his successor
in Alan Curbishley's forward line. And chairman Eggert Magnusson has
reportedly earmarked Bellamy as the man to maintain the Hammers' attacking
zest. The Reds could be tempted to part with the Wales international, 27,
especially as Magnusson is prepared to hand Rafael Benitez a £2million
profit on top of the £6million he paid to Blackburn last summer.
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Tevez wants to remain a Hammer - viewlondon.co.uk
West Ham hero Carlos Tevez has pledged his future to the Hammers.
The Argentina striker helped his side stay in the Premiership last weekend
with the winning goal against champions Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Reports have claimed the 23-year-old will move to Real Madrid or Inter Milan
for £30 million in the summer as he is still owned by Media Sports
Investment (MSI). But while Tevez admitted he would like to sign for a
European giant, his first choice is to stay at the Hammers. "The West Ham
supporters were incredible to me, I will never forget it, and so West Ham
will always have priority," Tevez said. "But, if they are going to sell me,
yes, I would like to play for a big European club."
Tevez is still at the centre of a bitter row with four Premiership clubs
after the Hammers escaped a points deduction after breaking Premier League
rules in signing the Argentine international. Sheffield United, Fulham,
Charlton, and Wigan are furious West Ham were only fined with the Blades
threatening legal action following their relegation to the Championship.
Tevez is currently on a holiday in Bueno Aires and hopes to play in
Argentina's Copa America campaign which begins on June 26th, a
tournament which they finished runners-up to arch rivals Brazil in 2004.
© Adfero Ltd
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Tevez: "Hammers are my priority"Print - EuroSport
Argentina forward Carlos Tevez has said his priority is to stay with West
Ham United, even though he also dreams of playing for a big European club.
"The West Ham supporters were incredible to me, I will never forget it," he
said. "West Ham will always have priority; but, if they are going to sell
me, I would like to play for a big European club." West Ham, who had a poor
season until the run-in when they won seven of their last nine games,
escaped the drop after a Tevez goal gave them a dramatic final-day 1-0 win
away to champions Manchester United. But the signing of Tevez and compatriot
Javier Mascherano, who moved to Liverpool in January, also created
controversy. West Ham were fined a record £5.5 million last month by an
independent Premier League commission which ruled that the players'
contracts drawn up at their August transfer contravened league rules by
giving certain rights to third-party companies.
West Ham admitted the charge and escaped a points-deduction that would have
almost certainly condemned them to relegation. Wigan Athletic, who survived
the drop, and Sheffield United, who went down, are at the head of a group of
clubs threatening to challenge the Premier League in the courts over its
decision not to dock West Ham points. FIFA president Sepp Blatter said that
football's governing body would investigate the case. Meanwhile, Tevez says
he is hoping to be picked by Argentina coach Alfio Basile for the Copa
America from June 26th to July 15th.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham is the priority for Tevez - The Guardian
BUENOS AIRES, May 18 (Reuters) - Argentina forward Carlos Tevez said on
Friday his priority was to stay with West Ham United although he also
dreamed of playing for a big European club. "The West Ham supporters were
incredible to me, I will never forget it, and so West Ham will always have
priority," said Tevez, a key figure as the London club escaped relegation
from the Premier League last weekend. "But, if they are going to sell me,
yes, I would like to play for a big European club," he told reporters. West
Ham, who had a poor season until the run-in when they won seven of their
last nine games, escaped the drop after a Tevez goal gave them a dramatic
final day 1-0 win away to champions Manchester United. But the signing of
Tevez and compatriot Javier Mascherano, who moved to Liverpool in January,
also created controversy. West Ham were fined a record 5.5 million pounds
($10.88 million) last month by an independent Premier League commission
which ruled that the players' contracts drawn up at their August transfer
contravened league rules by giving certain rights to third-party companies.
West Ham admitted the charge and escaped a points deduction that would have
almost certainly condemned them to relegation. Wigan Athletic, who survived
the drop, and Sheffield United, who went down, are at the head of a group of
clubs threatening to challenge the Premier League in the courts over its
decision not to dock West Ham points. FIFA president Sepp Blatter said that
soccer's governing body would investigate the case. Meanwhile, Tevez says he
is hoping to be picked by Argentina coach Alfio Basile for the Copa America
from June 26 to July 15
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham chairman blasts Sheffield Utd
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson has accused Sheffield United of dragging
his club's reputation through the mud over the Carlos Tevez affair.
United, in league with former relegation rivals Wigan, have vehemently
protested over the Premier League's decision to only fine The Hammers,
rather than dock the East Londoners points. The Blades' appeal is all the
more bitter given the club's relegation last week, but Magnusson insists his
club have no case to answer, even if he does sympathise with United's
plight. "I have not called anyone at Sheffield. It's difficult. But I feel
for them. It's difficult to go down," Magnusson told the Daily Telegraph.
"But I feel that some things that have been said about this great club are
unjustified. "From my point of view both Tevez and (Javier) Mascherano were
registered correctly on 31st August and the registration of Tevez has been
correct from that date until the end of the season.
"There should be no dispute. There have been all sorts of misinterpretations
on this but everyone agrees on this, including Fifa and the Premier League."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Addicks eyes Teddy swoop Fri, May 18 2007 17:20 - EatSleepSport
Charlton boss Alan Pardew wants veteran striker Teddy Sheringham to plot The
Addicks return to the Premiership. Pardew expects to lose Darren Bent this
summer as a whole host of clubs show an interest in him and the Addicks boss
wants the West Ham United man to replace him. Pardew made a move for
Sheringham in January but the deal was rejected by his West Ham counterpart
Alan Curbishley, who did not want the veteran to help one of the Hammers'
rivals in their battle to beat the drop. Charlton are now set to make
another move for Sheringham who is out of contract this summer and wants to
carry on playing. Sheringham feels that he has still got another season at
least left in his legs and could end his career at The Valley just a few
miles from where he
started out at Millwall. The Lions themselves are also keen but Sheringham
would prefer to play in the Championship.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Portsmouth move for West Ham's Benayoun
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
Portsmouth are moving for West Ham United midfielder Yossi Benayoun. The
Mirror says Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp wants Benayoun with agent Pini
Zahavi ready to broker a deal as he is close to both the player and manager.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Villa join race for West Ham's Reo-Coker
tribalfooball.com - May 18, 2007
Aston Villa have joined the race for West Ham United midfielder Nigel
Reo-Coker. Tottenham have been long-term admirers of the England U21
international, while Villa and Everton are also keen, says the Mirror.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Change in rhetoric reveals McCabe's true agenda - all3points.com
18th May 2007
By Darren Morgan
As soon as Dave Whelan launched his ill-conceived crusade for justice in the
wake of West Ham's fining for their role in 'Tevezgate', several white
knights across the country saddled up to ride forth with their new leader.
In the county of South Yorkshire, Kevin McCabe hastily donned his chainmail
and stitched a red cross onto his surcoat before heading south to borrow
Jonathan Aitken's 'sword of truth'.
Several days later, and a marked change in tone from McCabe tellingly
reveals his campaign for truth, justice and the English way, to be exactly
what it is – a last, desperate, squalid attempt to boost the Bramall Lane
coffers. Over the last few days, McCabe has been very vocal on the injustice
that has seen his club relegated: "If by right and there is any justice in
this land, we will be in the Premiership next season", "The board of the
Premier League need to properly address this and right the wrong, the
injustice, that Sheffield United have got.", "I think most of the Premier
League clubs and other football clubs support us over this injustice that
has come about this season.". All wonderful soundbites from McCabe, that
point to a great and unfair aberration in the law.
When taken in conjunction with the bile belching its way out of the JJB
Stadium, that West Ham should be deducted points, the implication is clear -
West Ham should be relegated, not Sheffield United. Yesterday however,
McCabe seemed to veer slightly from this well planned path. Instead of
demanding West Ham be deducted points and relegated as a result, he is now
advocating a 21 team league, "It is up to the FA Premier League to find a
way round this exceptional circumstance where a club which has played by the
rules has been relegated at the expense of one club who have fielded
ineligible players.
"The simple answer is why not have 21 clubs in the Premiership next season
and relegate four of them at the end. It is not my decision to make but it
seems like a very simple solution."
Apart from continuing in his incorrect assertion that Carlos Tevez was
ineligible, what could possibly have caused McCabe to change tack?
Admittedly, the recent letter from the Premier League to the 20 member clubs
explains in clear and explicit detail that Tevez has never been ineligible
at any time this season. It also clearly explains that West Ham disclosed
the Argentine's third party ownership at the time of registration. Instead,
the reader of the letter is left in no doubt that West Ham were guilty of
nothing more than a clerical error regarding the right of the third party to
sell Tevez in January without West Ham's agreement, and then lying to try
and cover up their bumbling incompetence.
Given the vague nature of the Premier League's rules on third party
ownership, there could even be an argument that West Ham thought they had
done everything correctly, but this is not the time or place to discuss
this. So, with the legal grounds for McCabe's challenge falling out from
under his feet, maybe this was the factor which has led him to this 21 team
compromise? Possibly, but unlikely.
The real reason can be found in Sheffield United's statement that was
released as they initiated arbitration proceedings. At the very bottom of
the statement, they outline their four objectives that they are 'seeking to
achieve' from this arbitration. The very last objective reads '"(d) An
assessment of the club's potential claim for damages'.
And there we have it. After all the bluster about fair play and justice,
McCabe finally gets to the crux of the matter – cold hard cash. Those clubs
who get to eat at the top table of the Premier League get to eat all the
juiciest prime cuts from the spit roasted cash cow that funds the game.
Everyone below that, gets the scraps that are discarded. After a season
eating prime ribeye and fillet, McCabe clearly has no wish to suffer another
season eating offal or minced spinal cord. With the cash cow due to be
replaced by a behemoth of an ox next season, the stakes (if you will pardon
the pun) are even higher.
So the idea of a 21 team league becomes, in simple terms, " I don't
actually mind whether or not West Ham stay up, as long as I get my share of
the money".
The carefully orchestrated campaign to hoodwink the people of the land into
thinking this is all about justice has worked superbly. West Ham, previously
many neutrals favoured second team, are now demonised as the epitome of
filthy underhandedness and caddish behaviour. As McCabe has ridden his steed
alongside Whelan, with his banner of justice hanging flaccidly in the wind,
thousands have flocked to follow him. But if they took the time to look
closer, they will see his surcoat is not emblazoned with the blood red cross
of the crusader, but with a rather grubby pound sign.
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Season of chaos begins and ends with Tevez - all3points.com
18th May 2007
By Dan Halton
A disruptive and controversial season that began with hope, descended into
despair but has now ended in sheer joy saw Carlos Tevez play a significant
part from start to finish.
A season review for any other Premiership club would look fairly tame
compared to what has happened to West Ham this year. For those of an
impatient nature, here is a potted history for you to consider. Club signs
two world-class stars from Argentina in undisclosed deal. Club is bought out
by Icelandic consortium. Team goes on worst run of form in years and manager
is sacked. New manager continues appalling run of form and team battle
relegation all season. A number of players admit to gambling and drinking
addictions. Captain threatens to leave. Star defender lies to club about
funeral so he can party instead in the US. The Argentina deal gets
investigated halfway through the season and is found to be illegal. Club is
given biggest fine in history of the league. Other clubs are angry and
demand West Ham get docked points. Team goes on best run of form in years
and escapes relegation on last day. I bet the Everton review won't top that
for excitement.
The anger and bitterness felt by the so-called "Gang of Four" over the Tevez
controversy is matched only by the relief and joy of West Ham fans as we
celebrate the greatest escape of all great escapes. Eight weeks ago we were
dead and buried - ten points from safety with an atrocious goal difference
and disjointed team. Now, on the pitch at least, West Ham have succeeded
against all the odds in securing their place at the glamorous and lucrative
Premiership table once more.
Back in August it was all so different. Tevez and fellow countryman Javier
Mascherano were paraded as the new signings that manager Alan Pardew proudly
announced would put West Ham on to the next level. He cannot have envisaged
that level to be one that saw us eliminated from the UEFA Cup at the first
hurdle, lose seven games in a row and drop into the relegation zone. By
December, with the team in freefall after several defeats, the club is
transferred to Icelandic hands with incoming chairman Eggert Magnusson
immediately replacing one Alan for another.
Curbishley was heralded as the right man for the right job at the right
time. His first match in charge could not have gone any better as the
champions-elect Manchester United were humbled at Upton Park. But dismal
losses over the Christmas and New Year period including a humiliating 6-0
defeat at Reading left the Hammers firmly stuck in the relegation mire.
Worse was to follow in the shape of gambling scandals and personality
clashes which at one point saw West Ham's season threaten to implode
completely. The media were hunting like wolves and salivated at stories of
wantaway captain Nigel Reo-Coker and getaway Anton Ferdinand.
The ever-developing crisis sparked panic shopping during January as £17m was
spent on six new faces. The gamble initially failed to pay off as injuries
first handicapped Lucas Neill and then ended Matthew Upson's season
altogether. The form of the others made it look like a total waste of money
with Nigel Quashie failing to justify even his meagre price tag but
gradually Luis Boa Morte and, more importantly, Neill brought much-needed
calm and experience to an unsettled side.
As it was, Curbishley ended up dealing with much the same team that Pardew
had. Dean Ashton remained frustratingly absent through injury but Mark
Noble's introduction into midfield was a masterstroke. His aggression and
work-rate alongside Reo-Coker gave the team a solid centre. He was to star
in the most excruciating defeat all year when Spurs snatched a 4-3 victory
with two late goals deep into stoppage time. The depths of despair we felt
that night were never reached again however as the moment our season turned
around was just around the corner.
The date and venue can be pinpointed precisely – 17 March, Ewood Park,
Blackburn. The Hammers are one down with twenty minutes to go. The rain is
pelting down and any survival chances are hanging by a thread. Suddenly a
West Ham attack sees the ball pinging around the penalty area only for
Tevez, in attempting to get out of the way, to bizarrely block the ball on
the line. Believing the ball had crossed the line, assistant John Devine
holds aloft his flag and instructs the referee to allow a goal. A
controversial penalty soon followed and incredibly the Hammers had won their
first league game for three months. Luck, good fortune, call it what you
want. All season we had had none of it but that moment heralded an almighty
change in our fortunes that ended this Sunday with victory at Old Trafford
and ultimately survival in the Premiership. Mr Devine, you deserve our
gratitude.
By the time we clinched victory on the final day the team was settled,
confident and bang in form. The run of seven wins out of nine ranks as the
best run in the top-flight since 1986 when we finished third. A win was eked
out at Arsenal but the hammering Wigan got in their own backyard was far
more satisfying and laid down a crucial marker in the relegation battle.
A lot of credit must go Curbishley's way for turning this around. He may
have all the perkiness of a teabag but I sense someone who demands (and
gets) the most from his players and one who has been thick-skinned enough to
deal with all the upheavals over the past five months. A lesser man would
have folded. Credit due also to Magnusson for sticking with his man and
maintaining an amazing amount of faith through troubled times.
Honourable mentions for the season go to Rob Green who was immense in goal
and Bobby Zamora who showed incredible determination to succeed after an
alarming dip in form mid-season. But the player everyone will remember this
season for all sorts of reasons is Carlos Tevez. The supremely gifted
forward came to the club in a blaze of publicity and controversy and has
probably ended it in the same fashion. With reports that he has played his
last game for us I thank him for the free-kicks, the celebrations, the spark
he gave our attack and more importantly the goal he scored at Old Trafford.
All he wanted to do is play football and boy am I glad he did as he has left
us with some fantastic moments to treasure. And a place in the Premiership.
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Hypocrisy of Whelan clouds reason - all3points.com
18th May 2007
By Darren Morgan
As the final whistle blew at Bramall Lane on Saturday, the loudest sound to
be heard was the tapping of laptop keyboards as the press corps prepared to
add yet more column inches to the file marked 'Carlos Tevez'. The only
respite from the incessant patter of stubby digits on keys came from the
interviews with Wigan chairman Dave Whelan and Sheffield United Plc chairman
Kevin McCabe. Presented with the ideal opportunity to continue airing their
dirty laundry in public, tirades against Tevez, West Ham United and the
Premier League spewed forth. The tapping in the press box intensified.
The public has been exposed to more than enough coverage on this story.
Every man and his dog have had their say. Two Sheffield MP's are even going
to table a motion in the House of Commons in order to get points deducted
from West Ham – a worthwhile use of their enormous salaries, I'm sure you'll
agree. Given the blanket coverage on the issue, I hope you will indulge me
while I try to set the record straight.
The majority of the general ill feeling towards the Hammers has been borne
largely out of lazy journalism and a simple misunderstanding of the rules of
the Premier League and the ruling of the independent panel that judged West
Ham's case. Instead of researching the topic, journalists have been happy to
casually toss around phrases like 'ineligible' and the largely ignorant
public have lapped it up.
Dan Johnson of the Premier League has recently clarified the issue: "This
has never been a question of West Ham fielding an ineligible player. From
the day they signed him, West Ham have owned his registration. That has
never been an issue. West Ham have never tried to conceal the fact Tevez and
Javier Mascherano are owned by Kia Joorabchian and MSI. That is not against
the rules. The only problem we had with the deal was the existence of a
clause in the agreement, which would allow Joorabchian to sell the players
to another club at any time. On the day of the inquiry's judgment, West Ham
chose to terminate the third-party agreement with Joorabchian. They
presented the Premier League with written evidence of the new arrangement."
All clear? Let's hope so.
Still more confusion has arisen as people have struggled to discern the
difference between the FA and the Premier League. Conspiracy theories abound
how Trevor Brooking's presence in the FA's corridors of power helped West
Ham to avoid a points deduction. Let's be certain of one thing here. The FA
and the Premier League are 2 very separate entities, and it is not unheard
of for one to take great delight in the others misfortune. Brian Barwick has
probably spent the last 2 months laughing himself silly at the beleaguered
Premier League, taking schadenfreude to a level previously unknown.
It is unlikely that too many people will pay attention to these facts at
this late stage. The press have done a wonderful job in misinforming the
public, and they will not easily be swayed.
It is unfortunate that this is the case, as the public are missing out on a
more pertinent point of issue. Whilst Sheffield United and McCabe's ire is
understandable, albeit misplaced, they are entirely to blame. McCabe's
statement that his side's last day defeat to 10 man Wigan was not the 'root
cause' of their problems is true. It was the fact that they only won 10
games all the season that was the root cause of the relegation. It was the
fact that he employed a manager and players who felt secure enough at 10
points clear to take their collective foot off the pedal. It was the fact
that they allowed themselves to be conned into joining Whelan's campaign
rather than concentrating on football. Sorry Blades fans – you deserved so
much better for all your wonderful support this season. Your club has let
you down badly.
But it is Whelan's appearance as the Richard the Lionheart in this crusade
for 'justice' that really sticks in the gullet. For a number of weeks now,
the most spurious of accusations and bile have vomited their way out of his
snide maw, undermining the efforts of his team and manager. He has taken
every opportunity to demand that justice be done.
This is, unless I am mistaken, the same Dave Whelan whose JJB sports shops
were fined £6.7m in 2003 for being part of a price fixing cartel in
overcharging fans for England replica shirts and Manchester United replica
shirts. This headache is not yet over as Which magazine have now issued
proceedings in the Competition Appeals Tribunal as they attempt to get the
fine repaid to the consumers who were ripped off by Whelan.
It is also the same Dave Whelan who owns Wigan Warriors rugby league club.
The same Wigan Warriors who, in August 2006, were found guilty of breaching
the 2005 salary cap that the Rugby Football League imposes on its member
clubs. They were fined a paltry £50,000, for conduct prejudicial to the
interests of the game, and had two points deducted for the breach – the
mandatory punishment.
With this marvellous background in defrauding the public and relevant
authorities, 'Dodgy Dave' has been strutting around with the kind of
previous that Jeffrey Archer would be ashamed of.
As Wigan Athletic slipped perilously closer to relegation, Whelan took up
the mantle of being the paragon of justice and fairness. His protestations
would be far more credible if they were not accompanied by the rancid stench
of hypocrisy.
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