Dean Ashton is back in training and would love to figure in this month's derby
08.11.2007
Dean Ashton is setting his sights on facing Tottenham Hotspur as he contemplates a first-team return after recovering from a knee strain.
The striker is raring to go again and knows the televised Boleyn Ground derby on 25 November is likely to be a memorable occasion - and not just because it is the day after his 24th birthday. He said: "It is always a massive game, especially for the fans. Obviously I would love to be a part of that to try and influence the game. They are all important games at the moment but I think that one just a bit special for the fans."
Ashton returned to training this week and was hopeful of continuing his recovery on Thursday and Friday. However, he admitted the away fixture at Derby County this weekend was probably "just a little bit too soon" to add to his seven appearances, and three goals, this campaign. He added: "Obviously I would love to play on Saturday, there is nothing more I'd like.
"It is important that I am right when I do come back. It is no good for anybody if I just rush back after a couple of days training and then pull up. It is no good to me, no good for the team and it is no good for people watching. They want to see me playing week in, week out and so do I."
While it has been a frustrating time since he limped out of action on 6 October, he has been boosted by watching his team-mates build a four-match unbeaten run. "Everyone is confident in the players we have got now," he said. "We have got some fantastic players with a lot of experience and that shows in the team. Everyone looks around at each other and knows you have got a good player next to you who is going to put it in."
Among the players that have stood out of late is Carlton Cole, a fellow forward who has made the most of Ashton's absence with some key contributions. "I think he has been absolutely magnificent," he said. He has had some stick off certain sections of the fans but he's tried to block that out and get on with it. He has done a really good job - getting a few goals and putting in some real effort for the team."
Ashton recognises he may have a battle on his hands once all five strikers at the club - including Craig Bellamy, Bobby Zamora and Henri Camara - are competing for selection. "There is real potential," he said. "With competition for places, things can only get better. There hasn't been a chance for two people to cement places. I would love to cement a place myself and whoever that may be with is a fantastic player."
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Curbs cheerful at 50 - WHUFC
On his 50th birthday, Alan Curbishley was in relaxed and upbeat mood
08.11.2007
Alan Curbishley was in jovial mood today as he marked his 50th birthday at West Ham United's Chadwell Heath training ground.
When asked how he planned to celebrate ahead of his in-form side's bid to make it five games unbeaten at Derby County this Saturday, the manager quipped: "Hopefully by having eleven fit players on Saturday!
"I'm pleased to have got to 50 as a manager," he continued in seriousness. "Seventeen years ago, when I started at Charlton (Athletic), I'd have been really pleased if you'd told me I would still be in top-flight management today. I'm going to keep pushing on and see how far I get."
Contemplating the longevity of the manager's position, Curbishley said: "Last week I talked about short termism in football management. The way the game is changing is very difficult for managers. If you don't jump up and down you're dull and if you do you're out of order.
"Every manager is different. Everyone attacks it differently. I thought Gary Megson was quite reserved last week, maybe that's what 18 months out does for you - he looked quite relaxed!"
Reflecting further on his role, Curbishley added: "I heard Dean Saunders on the radio the other day, talking about managers. He said that the problem with being a manager is that the despair of defeat is greater than the joy of winning. I can relate to that. It should be the other way around but that's the pressure of the game. Every game is vital.
"You have to have a balance. You have to get it right. I think I have over the last few years. I've managed to keep the highs not too high and the lows not too low. You've got to try and keep it even because it affects everyone around you. Everyone has a different way and the bottom line is to get results."
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Defensive duo breaking through - WHUFC
James Tomkins and Jordan Spence are eager to go all the way at West Ham United
08.11.2007
A good understanding is key to a strong defensive partnership, ask any Premier League defender. Goals may win matches, but a solid display by the men at the back is usually essential for victory.
While only at the beginning of their careers, West Ham United's young central defenders James Tomkins and Jordan Spence are already showing signs of a great double act, both on and off the field. whufc.com sat down with the promising pair to hear more about their hopes of finding a way to the first team.
This week they helped the reserves share the points in a rousing 2-2 draw against Arsenal and not only gave an assured display together at the back, but also proved they can help out up front as well. Spence grabbing West Ham's first goal in the match and Tomkins, who provided the assist for his younger team-mate, going close himself.
"I think I have a good understanding with Jordan," said Tomkins. "We haven't played that much together what with Jordan still playing for the youths this season and me coming back from injury, but when we have done, we have gelled really well. In the match against Arsenal, we wanted to be strong at the back and were encouraged to go forward when we could, especially at set-pieces. We knew we could help create something and Jordan managed to pop up with one of the goals, so that was good."
Spence nods in agreement but also is not slow to give team-mate Tomkins "a word" for the part he played. "It was good to score in that match, but I must give Tomka some credit as he nodded the ball down for me.
"Tomka was also getting on the end of a few corners himself. As he said, we like to get forward, it's part of the way we play and I think we complement each other well." So, who gives the shout on who stays in defence when a free-kick or corner is about to be taken and who goes forward to lend a hand in attack?
"I think we decide together in the match, when it's happening really," said Tomkins. "But we will also talk about things like set-pieces in the dressing room and if we know that this is where we can be a danger as a team, then myself and Jordan would be ready to go forward and do what we can."
Spence added: "We talk to each other on the pitch and know what the other is doing and it just goes from there. It's good to have an understanding like that." That relationship has been forged in Tony Carr's youth academy but each has also gained plenty of experience with England at youth level.
Tomkins - older by a year, at 18, and also an inch taller, at 6ft 3ins - and Spence have both been regulars in the international set-up since an early age. While their hunger to succeed and ultimate ambitions with club and country are the same, there are also similarities away from the action - with a great camaraderie between the two good friends.
It was in the 2004/05 season that a similar young defensive partnership took flight at West Ham United and, such were the strength of their performances, they played a big part in helping the club get promoted. That of course was Anton Ferdinand and Elliott Ward, who came through the ranks just like Tomkins and Spence.
Today, Ferdinand remains a rock at the heart of the first-team's defence and while Ward has since moved on, he is a regular in the backline for Championship side Coventry City. Both youngsters said they would "love to" follow in their footsteps and get the chance to make a significant impact at the Boleyn Ground.
"That would be good," smiled Tomkins. "I mean, you never know, fingers crossed we can play together well and take it all the way to the first team like they did." Spence added: "We know all about Anton and Elliott, so for us to follow them, is something we are definitely aiming for."
For now they are looking to establish themselves as a central pairing for the reserves and Spence, deferring to his older colleague, said he was learning a lot from Tomkins. "Playing alongside him has been good. Against Arsenal, Tomka was excellent and I can feed off the experience he has, because, yes, he is slightly senior to me!
"He has played more reserves matches than I have, but if we can get more games like the one we have just have, there's no reason why we can't get a good partnership together and do well for West Ham."
Tomkins added: "We have both started well this season in the reserves and everything is going well for us. We will both be looking to take every chance that comes along, that's for sure." Always ready to embrace homegrown talent, West Ham United fans will be willing the pair to do just that in the months and years to come.
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Ashton spurred by derby clash - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 8th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Dean Ashton is set to return to action in time to face Tottenham later this month, according to whufc.com. The 23-year-old striker has been out of action since straining knee ligaments in the 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa on 6th October.
But he is now back in training and although this weekend's visit to Derby will almost certainly arrive too soon, the former Norwich and Crewe striker has set his sights on the visit of local neighbours Tottenham on 25th November as his comeback game.
Talking to whufc.com this afternoon, he said: "Obviously I would love to play on Saturday, there is nothing more I'd like. But it's no good for anybody if I just rush back after a couple of days training and then pull up. "[Spurs] is always a massive game, especially for the fans. Obviously I would love to be a part of that to try and influence the game.
"They are all important games at the moment but I think that one is just a bit special for the fans."
Ashton - who has made just 24 first team appearances since signing for the Hammers in January 2006 - will also seek to get his international career back on track, having twice been denied the opportunity to make his full debut through injury. However he may have to wait until next March for the chance to do so, as England currently have no fixtures scheduled between the visit of Croatia on November 21st and the friendly against France on 26th March 2008.
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Lyall honoured - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 8th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
A plaque to honour former United boss John Lyall is set to be unveiled early next year. Lyall - who managed United for 15 years between 1974 to 1989 - will have a plaque in his memory placed in the Bobby Moore Stand of the Boleyn Ground. Lyall's wife Yvonne will unveil the plaque in a January ceremony to mark her late husband's achievements.
The popular manager - who took the post after succeeding mentor Ron Greenwood in 1974 - led the Hammers to FA Cup wins in 1975 and 1980 whilst reaching a Cup Winners Cup Final in 1976, a League Cup Final in 1981 and third place in the First Division - West Ham's highest ever top flight finish - in 1985/86.
Trevor Brooking - who played under Lyall for much of his 15 years in charge - told the BBC: "John was a much-loved figure at Upton Park and had a lasting influence on the club's development and the way the team played. "He was a man of great integrity and loyalty and anyone who knew him would have nothing but good things to say about him."
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Transfer latest - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 8th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham have been linked with a number of players ahead of the forthcoming January transfer window.
Former targets Nicky Shorey and Adriano have both been linked with a move to East London, as has Greek outfit Panathinaikos' Brazilian midfielder Marcelo.
Shorey - who was close to a £6m move to Upton Park in the summer - is yet to sign a new deal with the Royals, and is still being strongly linked with the Hammers who have just George McCartney on the books as a qualified left-back.
Meanwhile Adriano - who rejected a loan move to West Ham in August - is said to be unhappy at Inter, where he has spent much of the season on the bench.
Marcelo - who is understood to hold an Italian passport - is likely to cost around £5m. The Hammers have also been linked with a move for Juventus midfielder Sergio Almiron, who is rated around the £6m mark.
Almiron moved to Juventus from Empoli earlier this year but is said to be surplus to requirements after failing to impress. Tottenham have also been linked with the player.
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Northern knock - KUMB
Filed: Wednesday, 7th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe has confirmed that a date for a tribunal to hear a fresh claim for compensation has been set for next year. McCabe, who has thus far spent millions in an attempt to eke compensation out of West Ham United after his team were relegated from the Premeirship last season revealed earlier today that the High Court had set a date for the hearing. "We have regrettably gone beyond reinstatement so it's about financial compensation," he said. "A date has been set for next year and respective clubs are now going through respective submission of claims. "We are led by the availability of QCs and the panel, so it's more likely mid-2008 than early. It's frustrating but that's the way the law works."
McCabe also revealed that he had written recently to Eggert Magnusson - although was yet to receive a reply. "It was a couple of months ago," he said. "Supporters often take these situations on board even deeper than others and so we, as businessmen, have a responsibility to ensure we remain on cordial terms. "There is no reason why that can't be the case but I haven't heard anything back yet."
McCabe - whose side are currently 14th in the Football League Championship - has consistently blamed the Hammers for his team's relegation (or at least since their relegation was confirmed - there were no such complaints when a United side featuring Tevez were beaten 3-0 at Bramall Lane). However he was later charged with hypocrisy after Sheffield United were accused of breaking the same rule over which he claimed the Hammers should have been relegated for when selling Steve Kabba to Watford.
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West Ham seek sporting director - BBC
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley insists the club's search for a sporting director will not reduce his decision-making power at Upton Park. The Hammers are looking to recruit a new director with a broad overview. "We're talking about new stadiums and training grounds and one person can't be running all that," Curbishley told BBC Radio 5 Live. "We want to push on and make the club stronger, but it's myself and the board that decides where we are going to go."
He added: "We're looking at bringing someone in who can have a look at the club from top to bottom and make suggestions."
The sporting director model is one used widely across European football but rarely in the English game. Tottenham are one of the few Premier League advocates, employing Frenchman Damien Comolli as both a link between manager and board and a key figure in player recruitment. But its value in this country has been called into question and Comolli's role at Spurs was reported to have incensed recently-sacked manager Martin Jol. A director of football is more common, but even that position has prompted some consternation, with Harry Redknapp's departure from Portsmouth in 2004 said to have been prompted by the appointment of Velimir Zajec.
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Blades still want compensation - SSN
Sheffield United still feel aggrieved over Tevez affair
By Lewis Rutledge Last updated: 8th November 2007
Sheffield United are determined to continue their fight for compensation following their relegation from the Premier League last season. The Blades finished in the bottom three as they lost to Wigan and West Ham beat Manchester United on the final day of the season. But Sheffield United maintain that West Ham should have been docked points after being found guilty of breaching Premier League regulations over the Carlos Tevez affair. They unsuccessfully appealed to be reinstated to the top flight, but are still looking for a financial settlement. "We are heading towards a Football Association tribunal," said Sheffield United plc chairman. "A date has been set for next year and respective clubs are now going through respective submission of claims. "We are led by the availability of QCs and the panel, so it's more likely mid-2008 than early. It's frustrating but that's the way the law works. "We have regrettably gone beyond reinstatement so it's about financial compensation for having been relegated unjustly after another club, we purport, broke the rules."
Frustrating
Sheffield United were tipped to bounce back to the Premier League at the first attempt but they have struggled in the Championship under new manager Bryan Robson. They remain in the bottom half of the table after 15 games of the season but McCabe insists there is no need for panic. "It's been a frustrating start, I think every Sheffield United supporter realises that," he said. "I'm a supporter too but I believe in our management duo we have got commitment, determination and effort that will pull it through so this season will still be a success."
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Noble blow for Hammers - SSN
Midfielder undergoes hernia operation
By Lewis Rutledge Last updated: 8th November 2007
Alan Curbishley has revealed that Mark Noble will be out for a fortnight after undergoing a hernia operation. Freddie Ljungberg, James Collins and Dean Ashton are all back in training following injury and Curbishley hopes to be able to call on the trio soon. But the West Ham manager admits it is frustrating to lose Noble, who has been one of his team's standout players so far this season. The midfielder had to be substituted in last week's Carling Cup victory over Coventry and then missed the Premier League clash with Bolton on Sunday. It was hoped that surgery would not be required but there was no other option and Noble now faces a spell on the sidelines. "Freddie Ljungberg has trained, James Collins has trained, Dean Ashton is in training, so we are hopeful that they get through okay in the weeks to come," Curbishley, celebrating his 50th birthday, told Sky Sports News. "But Mark Noble has had a hernia operation. He came off against Coventry feeling really sore so he's out. "He's not going to be around for a couple of weeks. "So we get a couple back and one goes out. That's just life at the moment."
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West Ham in stadium talks with Spurs
By Jeremy Wilson
Last Updated: 1:53am GMT 09/11/2007
West Ham United are open-minded about the possibility of sharing their Upton Park ground with Tottenham, believing that it could help fund their own new stadium plans. An approach has been made by Spurs and, although no specific suggestions have been put forward, West Ham would consider more formal proposals. If Tottenham do decide to expand White Hart Lane to around 52,000, they would be looking for a new home during the anticipated two years of renovations. That could coincide with West Ham's final two seasons at Upton Park and may provide a timely financial boost. Tottenham are considering other sites and plan to make a final decision by the end of June next year. Tottenham and West Ham have noted Arsenal's success in maximising the knock-on benefits of a new ground since their move to the Emirates Stadium last year, and all three clubs may be in the running to stage World Cup matches should the FA's bid to host the 2018 competition prove successful. West Ham have secured negotiating rights with the London Development Agency on a 32-acre site next to the West Ham underground station for a possible 60,000-seat stadium to open by 2012. Driving these proposals forward will be part of the remit for a new technical director at the club, an appointment which could be made within two months. Manager Alan Curbishley and the club's directors have decided on the proposed scope of the position and a shortlist of candidates will be drawn up over the next few weeks.
The title 'technical director' has been agreed to avoid any confusion about the role in relationship to Curbishley. The new director will work beneath Curbishley, who will help conduct interviews. As well as working on the new ground, the technical director will be involved with youth development, the scouting system and improving the club's training facilities. "We're talking about new stadiums and training grounds and one person can't be running all that," said Curbishley. "We want to push on and make the club stronger, but it's myself and the board who decide where we are going to go."
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble, meanwhile, will miss the England Under-21 qualifiers against Bulgaria on Nov 16 and Portugal the following week as he will undergo a double hernia operation. Noble has travelled to Germany to see Dr Ulrike Muschaweck, who treated Craig Bellamy.
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Ephraim thankful for loan spell - TeamTalk
Hogan Ephraim has thanked QPR for the experience of his three-month loan spell and hopes he has returned to West Ham a better player. The 19-year-old winger became a firm favourite at Loftus Road, and hit two goals during his successful stint as Rangers lifted themselves off the foot of the table. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at QPR. The fans were absolutely brilliant to play in front of, their support was first class and I can't speak highly enough of them," he told the club's official website. "From a personal point of view, I feel I did well during my time at the club, and feel it was a massive benefit to me as a player."
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No prawn sandwiches please, we're Hammers - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 8th November 2007
By: Gary Kruse
Towards the back end of last season, a mate of mine went to the Arsenal – Man City game at the Emirates. Mid way through the match, he was up on his feet, singing his little Gooner socks off when he was told to sit down and shut up.
By showing the passion and pride of all true football fans, he'd upset some corporate CEO who wanted to eat a prawn sandwich in dignified silence. A period of doubt followed, during which my Gooner friend considered supporting a team where passion and pride were still seen as a virtue. In short, he considered becoming a Hammer.
These days there is a palpable sense of excitement around the Boleyn. There's a new owner, a new manager, a new kit and pretty much a new team as well. There's talk of Champion's League football in five years, and a move to sixty-thousand seater stadium by West Ham station. The future looks rosy.
But what price are we willing to pay for this glorious future?
It says a lot about the reputation of West Ham supporters that my Gooner friend considered becoming one. It's a reputation that's been built over decades of unflinching support through the good and all too frequent bad times. And it's encapsulated in two legendary F.A. Cup games.
The first was the 2006 Final. Despite the penalty shoot out defeat, the Sunday papers heaped praise on the good-natured rapport between the West Ham and Liverpool fans. Throughout the afternoon The Millenium Stadium reverberated with two of footballs greatest anthems.
After the Cup presentation, according to one report, the Hammer's fans joined their Liverpool counterparts in a chorus of "You'll Never Walk Alone," before giving one last defiant blast of "Bubbles" then leaving, defeated but with their pride and reputation intact.
The second was the 1991 F.A. Cup Semi Final against Nottingham Forest. Again we had to suffer the bitter taste of defeat. Through it all though, Villa Park resounded to the chant of "Billy Bond's Claret and Blue Army". As a twelve-year-old kid watching at home, I felt choked with pride. Yes we were getting pasted, but we were still defiant, still singing and showing exactly what it means to be a Hammer.
My worry is that, should we reach the dizzy heights of the Champion's League, will we lose our roots? Will we find ourselves infiltrated by the Johnny Come Latelys currently filling the stands at the Bridge and the Emirates? In five years time, will the chorus of "Bubbles" that greets the team onto the pitch be replaced with the kind of silence that led the old Arsenal ground being known as the Highbury Library? I hope not.
I would love to see West Ham fighting it out at the right end of the table for once. I barely remember the legendary 1986 season when we were so close to that elusive title, and I would love to see the Hammers raise the Premier League Trophy one day.
But no matter what happens in the future, we can't forget our past. We can't lose our soul. We've got to keep singing, keep packing out the Boleyn and keep on believing, no matter what happens on the pitch. Success will only mean something if we stay true to what West Ham is all about.
My Gooner mate didn't turn in the end. But good luck to him. He'll still be a Gooner when the Prawn Sandwich Brigade has moved onto the next big thing. And that's exactly how it should be.
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Reid set to keep place after impressing against Gunners - Daily Mail
Last updated at 15:10pm on 8th November 2007
Kyel Reid is set to keep his place among the West Ham subs for Saturday's Premier League clash after impressing in the reserves' 2-2 draw with Arsenal. The midfielder narrowly missed out on a starting berth for the recent Carling Cup win over Coventry.
NEXT FIVE GAMES: Saturday: Derby (a); 25 Nov: Tottenham (h); 1 Dec: Chelsea (a) 9 Dec: Blackburn (a); 15 Dec: Everton (h).
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Under 21s missing Noble - SSN
Hernia op rules Noble out of Under 21 qualifiers
Last updated: 8th November 2007
West Ham midfielder Mark Noble has been ruled out of England Under 21s' qualifying double-header with Bulgaria and Portugal. Noble, who has scored in two of England's wins in their Euro 2009 campaign so far, needs a double hernia operation. The highly-rated midfielder has travelled to Germany to see Dr Ulrike Muschaweck, who has recently treated Michael Owen and Craig Bellamy. Portsmouth defender Martin Cranie is also missing after breaking his leg while on loan at QPR. Manchester City ace Michael Johnson, who missed the wins over Montenegro and Republic of Ireland, is absent again with his groin complaint. Sunderland's Grant Leadbitter has earned a call-up, while James Vaughan is back in the squad after recovering from a dislocated shoulder. Under 21 boss Stuart Pearce admits he has been impressed by Leadbitter this season. "Grant's played in one or two positions for Sunderland this season and has done very well," Pearce said. "I went into Sunderland a couple of weeks ago and watched them train, and also saw him play against Manchester City. "He's playing regularly and getting Premier League experience and I think he deserves his chance in the squad."
Pearce added: "We've got some absentees with Mark Noble, Michael Johnson and Martin Cranie all out, but have been able to bring in some new players who have been looking good this season. "It's the first time back in for James Vaughan since the summer and he's been very unlucky with injuries otherwise he would have been in the other squads this season. "But it's good to see him back in contention, especially after a goal for Everton on Saturday."
England will face Bulgaria at stadium:mk on 16th November and travel to Portugal the following Tuesday, by which time they could have virtually secured a place in the play-offs to reach the finals in Sweden.
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West Ham boss Curbishley: Noble hid injury
tribalfootball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble is having hernia surgery in Germany. The England Under-21 international requires a double hernia operation after playing through the pain barrier for the last two months, and will be subjected to the procedure on Friday at the Munich clinic of Dr Ulrike Muschaweck, who has also treated Michael Owen and Noble's team-mate Craig Bellamy. Noble, 20, will miss the Hammers' Premier League match at Derby on Saturday, but could return for the London derby clash with Tottenham on November 25. West Ham manager Alan Curbishley said: "Mark Noble had a hernia operation on Tuesday and while he was there, it was decided that he needed double hernia surgery. "He is having the second one done tomorrow. He has been having this problem for a couple of months, but he didn't let on, and perhaps that is significant. "I left Mark out of the team recently because I felt he was tired and perhaps needed a rest, and I remember him saying that rest was for the summer. "But he has been going full pelt for the last five or six months, and not really had any recovery time, apart from two weeks off in the summer. "We think he has a chance of playing in the Spurs game because of the techniques now, but he will take a bit longer to recover than Craig Bellamy, who needed only a week."
Noble's absence means Curbishley is now without 11 senior players, and his squad is looking ever-more depleted.
But the Upton Park boss refused to criticise Noble for his eagerness to keep playing. Curbishley continued: "I think it's just natural - you're dealing with a young boy who just wants to play and thinks he can get through it. "It's probably a little bit of na�vet� from a young player who wants to play every week and is desperate to play for his club. We will put it down to experience."
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West Ham boss confident of role with technical director
tribalfooball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is confident of his role at the club if a new technical director is appointed.
The Hammers are looking to recruit a new director with a broad overview. "We're talking about new stadiums and training grounds and one person can't be running all that," Curbishley told BBC Radio 5 Live. "We want to push on and make the club stronger, but it's myself and the board that decides where we are going to go." He added: "We're looking at bringing someone in who can have a look at the club from top to bottom and make suggestions."
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West Ham kids Tomkins, Spence target breakthrough
tribalfootball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United youngsters Jordan Spence and James Tomkins have ambitions of translating their reserves central defensive partnership into the first team. "That would be good," Tomkins told whufc.com. "I mean, you never know, fingers crossed we can play together well and take it all the way to the first team like they did." Spence added: "We know all about Anton (Ferdinand) and Elliott (Ward), so for us to follow them, is something we are definitely aiming for." Tomkins added: "We have both started well this season in the reserves and everything is going well for us. We will both be looking to take every chance that comes along, that's for sure."
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West Ham's Ashton confident of new comeback
tribalfooball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United striker Dean Ashton hopes to have shaken off a knee strain in time for the derby against Tottenham on November 25. He told whufc.com: "It is always a massive game, especially for the fans. Obviously I would love to be a part of that to try and influence the game. They are all important games at the moment but I think that one just a bit special for the fans." Ashton returned to training this week and was hopeful of continuing his recovery on Thursday and Friday. However, he admitted the away fixture at Derby County this weekend was probably "just a little bit too soon" to add to his seven appearances, and three goals, this campaign. He added: "Obviously I would love to play on Saturday, there is nothing more I'd like. "It is important that I am right when I do come back. It is no good for anybody if I just rush back after a couple of days training and then pull up. It is no good to me, no good for the team and it is no good for people watching. They want to see me playing week in, week out and so do I."
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West Ham confirm Spurs groundshare talks
tribalfootball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United have confirmed they've been approached by Tottenham about sharing Upton Park. Spurs want to enlarge their stadium by 16,000 to a capacity of 52,000 and are looking for an alternative home for two seasons while the £300million work is carried out. "We did have a meeting with Tottenham but really they were only asking us what we thought of the possibility of a ground-share," said West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury. "We said we would go away and think about it but that is as far as it has got."
It is reported that Spurs are also looking at the possibility of playing some of their matches at Wembley Stadium.
The plan would be for the club to stage most of their home matches at Upton Park, moving to Wembley for selected big games such as the derby against Arsenal.
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Ashton delighted for West Ham teammate Cole
tribalfootball.com - November 08, 2007
Dean Ashton is delighted for West Ham teammate Carlton Cole over his new goal scoring form this season.
Ashton, currently out of action with a knee strain, told whufc.com: "I think he has been absolutely magnificent. He has had some stick off certain sections of the fans but he's tried to block that out and get on with it. He has done a really good job - getting a few goals and putting in some real effort for the team."
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West Ham, Man City chasing Barcelona's Gudjohnsen
tribalfootball.com - November 08, 2007
Three Premiership clubs are chasing Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen. The Sun says West Ham, Portsmouth and Manchester City are in for striker Gudjohnsen, now a back-up midfielder at Barcelona. Barca want to dump him in January and recoup the fee they paid Chelsea in 2006. He said: "If there's an offer, we can talk."
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CURBS MARKS NOBLE'S CARD - The Mirror
09/11/2007
Mark Noble (left) will have a second operation on his double hernia today with West Ham boss Alan Curbishley blaming naivety for the situation. "He's been having this problem for a couple of months and hasn't cracked on," said Curbishley. "You're dealing with a young boy thinking he can get through it. We'll put it down to experience."
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Spurs eye Upton Park as temporary home - Daily Mail
Last updated at 07:39am on 9th November 2007
Tottenham have approached West Ham about the possibility of ground-sharing at Upton Park while White Hart Lane is being redeveloped. Spurs want to enlarge their stadium by 16,000 to a capacity of 52,000 and are looking for an alternative home for two seasons while the £300million work is carried out. "We did have a meeting with Tottenham but really they were only asking us what we thought of the possibility of a ground-share," said West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury. "We said we would go away and think about it but that is as far as it has got." It is reported that Spurs are also looking at the possibility of playing some of their matches at Wembley Stadium. The plan would be for the club to stage most of their home matches at Upton Park, moving to Wembley for selected big games such as the derby against Arsenal. Spurs are also considering a new stadium but the preferred option is the redevelopment of White Hart Lane and they are expected to make a final decision before next summer. West Ham are themselves planning to move to a new stadium in around five years' time, with their No1 site being land near West Ham underground station.
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Defender stays focused - Clubcall
20071108 10:28
Reading's Nicky Shorey says he is not even thinking about a move away to West Ham and is purely concentrating on his current form. West Ham tried to land the defender back in the summer and with the transfer window approaching, the Hammers have been linked again with the England international. But Shorey, a boyhood West Ham fan, insists all he is concentrating on is doing his best for Reading. All I am thinking about is trying to put in some performances for Reading," he told Sky Sports. Arguably, that sort of speculation does affect you at times, but I am just getting my head down and working hard.
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Hammers to get a Brazilian? - West Ham Till I Die
The Sun reports that West Ham are to make a £5 million move for Brazilian star Marcelo, currently with Panathinaikos. They reckon we'll sell Hayden Mullins to fund the deal. Call me old fashioned, but I doubt whether old Hayden is in the £5 million bracket. He won't need a work permit as he holds an Italian passport. The fly in the ointment? His adviser is our old friend Kia Joorabchian. Oh well, nice thought while it lasted.
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Noble adds to Hammers woe - Daily Mail
Last updated at 11:04am on 8th November 2007
West Ham have been hit by a new injury blow, with Mark Noble ruled out for three weeks by a hernia problem. The England Under-21 international is having an operation and, along with Craig Bellamy and Lee Bowyer, is the third Hammers player to suffer with the injury in recent weeks. West Ham currently have 12 players on the casualty list but Noble's absence will hit them particularly hard because they have so few options in midfield at the moment, with
Scott Parker, Julien Faubert, Kieron Dyer and Freddie Ljungberg all sidelined. Another midfielder, Hayden Mullins, is also undergoing intensive treatment this week after badly bruising his ankle in the 1-1 draw with Bolton at Upton Park on Sunday, but remains a doubt for his side's trip to bottom-placed Derby County on Saturday. Manager Alan Curbishley has been unable to pick his strongest side this season but is hoping to have some injured players back in action after this month's international break.
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Possible West Ham target: I'm depressed - Orlando Sentinal
Posted by Brant Parsons on Nov 8, 2007 3:33:00 AM
Reports have West Ham United interested in Inter Milan's Adriano. Meanwhile, Adriano is having trouble of his own, just getting the energy to get on the pitch. The goal-scoring machine hasn't gotten over the death of his father from a year ago and he told a Brazilian broadcaster about it. I'm still depressed, and that's what keeps me from training or playing properly. Everyone has negative periods in their lives, and for me, the death of my father was a terrible moment that has led to great suffering.
Reportedly, Adriano has suffered a drinking problem since his father's death and that has had a huge role in what the Inter Milan striker is now claiming to be afflicting him. It's apparent that Adriano has to deal with these issues clouding his performance right now - and even if he demands his release in January, you have to wonder if West Ham is willing and ready to take a chance on him.
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Livingstone wants Olympic Stadium tenant - metro.co.uk
Thursday, November 8, 2007 London mayor Ken Livingstone insists a tenant to occupy the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games will be signed up soon now the design for the venue has been unveiled. Livingstone claimed that major football clubs such as West Ham would not be able to become tenants of the stadium, although a smaller club could as the venue will be reduced from 80,000 seats to 25,000 after the Games. He said: 'We made a commitment that there would be a permanent athletics facility and we have honoured that commitment. 'For West Ham we have identified a site much better suited to their needs. It is really inconceivable that anyone would have signed up to occupy a stadium before they could see it. 'Now that we have this design, I think we will move very rapidly on negotiations for people to come in and sign up for the ongoing legacy use.'
The Olympic Stadium has been designed to be practical rather than spectacular, given the need for 55,000 seats to be removed immediately after the Games. Olympics chiefs also admitted they will be able to raid the Games' contingency fund if the cost spirals above the new £496million budget. Chief architect Rod Sheard, of HoK Sport, conceded it was not as visually stunning as the new Wembley stadium. He said: 'Olympic Stadiums tended to get a reputation as white elephants so we had to come up with some different answers. 'While it does not have a spectacular arch like in north London it is an unbelievably complex stadium that is resolved in a simple and elegant way. 'This is not a stadium that's going to be screaming from the rooftops that it's bigger and more spectacular. This is just a cleverer building. This is a cleverer solution.'
Based around a sunken bowl built into the ground, the stadium will have a cable-supported roof providing cover for two-thirds of spectators and a fabric curtain that will wrap around the stadium structure. The budget for the stadium has jumped in price from the £280million estimated in 2004 when London launched their bid for the Games, but Olympic Delivery Authority chairman John Armitt said the increase was due almost entirely to inflation and VAT being added. Armitt said: 'Nearly £500million is a lot of money in anyone's terms but it is the budget and we are determined to work within that. 'If there is a requirement for any extra, we have a contingency within the scheme covering this as a whole and we will use some of that, but that is not the plan.'
Building work on the facility is set to begin up to three months ahead of schedule in April or May, with completion in 2011.
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Clubs queue for midfielder - Clubcall
20071108 09:44
Reading and West Ham are being linked with a January move for Pompey's Matthew Taylor who is attracting plenty of Premiership interest. The crowd favourite is finding first team football hard to come by at Fratton Park and there are a host of clubs said to be lining up moves for the player come the New Year. Reading appear to lead the way with their boss Steve Coppell ready to splash out £5m for the player, but Alan Curbishley at West Ham is also said to be interested in the player and there has also been a link with Middlesbrough, with the possibility Taylor following Gary O'Neil to the Riverside. Harry Redknapp has a host of players to chose from and it would appear that despite impressing when he has had his chance, he is not first choice and that is likely to see a queue of clubs fighting for his services come the transfer window.
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Reading determined to keep Shorey
tribalfooball.com - November 08, 2007
Reading are set to make fullback Nicky Shorey their best paid player to ward off attention from West Ham United. The Sun says the Hammers' £4million bid for Shorey in August failed but they will be back in January. Royals Director of football Nick Hammond said: "We've not given up hope of Nicky signing a new contract."
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West Ham chasing Panathinaikos star Marcelo
tribalfooball.com - November 08, 2007
West Ham United are set to offer £5 million for Panathinaikos star Marcelo. West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has seen his squad ravaged by injury and is understood to be ready to sell Hayden Mullins to fund the deal. In an ironic twist, defensive midfielder Marcelo's adviser is Kia Joorabchian - who took Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez to Upton Park. Reports Marcelo would not get a work permit are wide of the mark as he holds an Italian passport.
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