23/07/2007 13:55
West Ham United is delighted to announce the signing of Swedish
international captain Fredrik Ljungberg for a fee that could rise to
£3million. The 30-year-old midfielder agreed a four-year contract with the
Club today after successfully passing a medical, and will be unveiled to the
media at Upton Park this afternoon. Freddie moves across London after nine
years at Arsenal, where he made a total of 216 league and cup appearances -
including a Champions League Final against Barcelona in May 2006. Appointed
captain of the Swedish national team following last year's World Cup finals,
he has won 67 senior caps and scored 13 goals for his country.
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Freddie reveals delight at signing - WHUFC
23/07/2007 15:38
Freddie Ljungberg admits that the ambition of Eggert Magnusson convinced him
to join West Ham United after nine successful years at Arsenal. The Swedish
international captain completed his move from north to east London this
afternoon and says that his new Chairman made a big impression during the
negotiation stages. "I am very happy and really looking forward to the
challenge," he says. "West Ham United is a great club and the Chairman
really wants to go for it. "I spoke to him at length - he is very easy to
talk to, and you can see that he has that fire in his eyes. He wants to take
the Club to another level, and hopefully I can help him to do that. "There
are a lot of reasons for making this move and it is hard for me to talk
about all of them, but the main thing is that I was convinced by the
ambition at West Ham United. "The Chairman wants me to help build success
here in the future, and I am very excited by that challenge. The aim is to
get the Club to the top of English football "I haven't had a chance to train
with my new team-mates yet, but I am looking forward to that. There are some
fantastic players here and the squad is very strong. "The Chairman has
proved that he isn't scared to move in the transfer market, but West Ham
also have a lot of good young players - the Youth Academy here is very
famous - and I really can't wait to be a part of things here."
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Mervyn: Austria trip will provide huge benefit - WHUFC
22/07/2007 14:07
Mervyn Day believes that the hard work carried out in the scorching heat of
Austria this past week will provide a huge benefit to the players as they
continue their pre-season preparations back in England. Hammers rounded off
their trip to mainland Europe with a 2-0 friendly defeat against Lazio on
Saturday evening, but the Assistant Manager was satisfied with the team's
physical performance. "It was a tough game," said Mervyn. "We have worked
very hard all week in unbelievable heat, and this was another very good test
for us. "Lazio are further advanced than us in their pre-season work and
have a Champions League qualifier coming up soon, so it wasn't a surprise to
see that they were a bit sharper than us. "We were a little bit disappointed
with the goals that we conceded, but we have changed the team around quite a
lot and people aren't yet used to playing with each other, which is
understandable. "Having said that, we created three or four very good
chances, and I thought their goalkeeper played exceptionally well. He made
three excellent saves in the second half, including the penalty from Craig."
"In terms of what we got out of it, though, the fitness work has been
tremendous, and the lads will feel massive benefit from it when they get
back to England this week."
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Tickets still available for Orient clash - WHUFC
23/07/2007 11:54
Tickets are still available for tomorrow night's pre-season friendly at
Leyton Orient, and will also be on sale from the Brisbane Road turnstiles on
the night.
The match is a testimonial for Orient manager Martin Ling, and ticket prices
are as follows:
255 Tickets - £20.00 Adults, £10.00 Seniors, £10.00 Under 16's
3,433 Tickets - £15.00 Adults, £5.00 Seniors, £5.00 Under 16's
Tickets are still available to purchase in person from the Dr Martens Stand
Ticket Office at Upton Park until 3:00pm this afternoon.
After that time, tickets will only be available to purchase in person from
Leyton Orient on the day of the match.
Tickets will be available to purchase (cash only) at the prices shown above,
from the Away Turnstiles located in Brisbane Road from 6:30pm tomorrow
evening.
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Farewell Freddie: His finest Arsenal moments - arsenalfc.com
Freddie Ljungberg completed his move to West Ham United on Monday afternoon.
Our tribute to the former Gunner starts here with a look back at Freddie's
finest moments in an Arsenal shirt.
Arsenal 3-0 Manchester United
Premiership. September 20, 1998
Freddie didn't waste any time endearing himself to the Arsenal fans. With 11
minutes remaining and Manchester United being put to the sword at Highbury,
the Swede replaced Nicolas Anelka. Five minutes after receiving a warm
ovation from a happy home crowd, Ljungberg ghosted into the box to turn a
misdirected pass into a scoring opportunity. Peter Schmeichel raced out but
Ljungberg lobbed him to get his Arsenal career off to a perfect start.
Arsenal 2-0 Lazio
UEFA Champions League. September 27, 2000
In his prime Ljungberg was the man for the big occasion. He scored in two FA
Cup Finals and also rose to the challenge on those big European nights.
Lazio arrived at Highbury in September 2000 packed with star quality but
they left with nothing. Ljungberg picked the perfect time to break his duck
for the season, opening the scoring with a neat finish two minutes before
half time. The Swede added a second early in the second half to finish off
the Serie A outfit.
Liverpool 2-1 Arsenal
FA Cup Final. May 12, 2001
Arsenal were dominating Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium but, somehow,
had failed to break the deadlock. Thierry Henry missed a hatful of chances,
Stephane Henchoz denied Arsenal one goal with a desperate handball and the
luck was with Liverpool. Finally, with 18 minutes to go, Ljungberg burst
through the centre, took the ball past keeper Sander Westerveld and fired
into an empty net. The relief was palpable. The less said about the rest of
the game, the better.
Arsenal 3-1 Juventus
UEFA Champions League. December 4, 2001
A little over a year after seeing off Lazio, Ljungberg was the thorn in
Juve's side. The Old Lady of Turin had the likes of Del Piero, Nedved,
Thuram and Trezeguet in their ranks but Ljungberg took centre stage. He was
first to react to give Arsenal the lead from close range after 21 minutes
and, after Juve had threatened to nick a draw, he put the result beyond
doubt. With two minutes to go, Ljungberg darted onto Bergkamp's dinked pass
and lifted the ball over Gianluigi Buffon.
Liverpool 1-2 Arsenal
Premiership. December 23, 2001
A key moment on the road to the title. Arsene Wenger's side were up against
it at Anfield after Gio van Bronckhorst's red card but they led thanks to
Thierry Henry's penalty. Then Robert Pires left Steven Gerrard for dead on
the left and crossed low for Ljungberg to convert at the near post. It was
the perfect example of Ljungberg's eye for goal and his ability to time his
runs into the penalty area. His celebrations in front of the away end will
live long in the memory.
Bolton Wanderers 0-2 Arsenal
Premiership. April 29, 2002
With Robert Pires nursing a knee ligament injury, Ljungberg emerged as
Arsenal's matchwinner during the title run-in. Vital goals against Ipswich
and West Ham had kept the Gunners on course and this one topped the lot.
Once again Ljungberg timed his run to perfection. Once again Dennis Bergkamp
picked him out with a visionary pass. Once again the Swede finished
emphatically to leave Arsenal within touching distance of the Premiership
trophy.
Chelsea 0-2 Arsenal
FA Cup Final. May 4, 2002
Ray Parlour scored a superb opener but, in the eyes of the fans, this was
Freddie's Final. The red streak in Ljungberg's hair had been imitated by
many Arsenal supporters and "We Love You Freddie..." echoed around the
Millennium Stadium before, during and after the game. Ljungberg duly obliged
with his ninth goal in eight games, powering past John Terry before curling
a shot beyond Carlo Cudicini to put Arsenal two goals up. Arguably his
finest moment in red and white.
Sunderland 0-4 Arsenal
Premiership. May 11, 2003
The title had gone but the goals still flowed for Arsenal and for Freddie.
Days after Pires and Pennant hit trebles against Southampton, Ljungberg
notched his first and only hat-trick in Arsenal's colours. Sunderland,
already consigned to the drop, had no answer to the super Swede as he struck
after 39, 78 and 88 minutes. Arsenal's 4-0 victory at the Stadium of Light
was the second match in what would eventually be a record 49 games unbeaten
in the league.
Arsenal 2-1 Dinamo Zagreb
UEFA Champions League. August 23, 2006
A little bit of history for Ljungberg. Thierry Henry scored the first
Arsenal goal at Emirates Stadium, Gilberto grabbed Arsenal's first
competitive goal at the ground, but Freddie scored Arsenal's first European
goal at their new home. Eduardo, now an Arsenal player, struck first for
Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League qualifier but Ljungberg nodded the
home side level with 13 minutes left. Mathieu Flamini grabbed the winner in
stoppage time.
Bolton Wanderers 1-3 Arsenal
FA Cup Fourth Round Replay. February 14, 2007
Freddie's last goal for Arsenal and one which encapsulated what he brought
to the team for nine years. Jeremie Aliadiere made inroads into Bolton's
defence and Ljungberg, hovering on the shoulder of the last defender, picked
the perfect time to make his run. Aliadiere rolled the ball into Ljungberg's
path and the Swede, like so often before, slammed his shot into the corner.
It was a vital goal in the context of the Cup tie and it summed up Freddie
to a tee.
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Ljungberg completes transfer to West Ham United - arsenalfc.com
Arsenal can confirm that Freddie Ljungberg has signed for West Ham United
for an undisclosed fee. Freddie (30) signed for Arsenal from Swedish side
Halmstads in September 1998 and his Arsenal career was littered with honours
and accolades. Winning two Premiership titles, three FA Cups and one
Community Shield, Freddie became the first player for 40 years to score in
consecutive FA Cup Finals by netting against Liverpool in 2001 and then
Chelsea the following year.
Freddie was named Premiership Player of the Season in 2002 — a campaign in
which he scored 17 goals from midfield, helping Arsenal to win the 'double'.
Comfortable on either wing (although he played predominantly on the right),
Freddie also played centrally, supporting the front line. Throughout his
Arsenal career, Freddie was a major part of the Sweden national squad and is
currently captain of his country.
On Freddie's departure, Arsène Wenger said: "Freddie's contribution to
Arsenal Football Club was absolutely outstanding. His performances over the
past nine seasons have been a major part of the Club's successes during this
time, especially in our 2002 'double' year when he scored and created so
many goals from midfield. Freddie is a winner and always gave absolutely
everything when he played for this Club. He is an intelligent player and
always combined this well with his fantastic fighting spirit. We thank
Freddie for his contribution and wish him well for the future."
Everyone at Arsenal would like to thank Freddie for his fantastic
contribution to the Club and wish him the best of luck during his time with
West Ham United.
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West Ham swoop to sign Ljungberg - BBC
West Ham have completed the signing of Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg
for a fee that could rise to £3m. The Sweden international joined the
Gunners in a £3m deal from Halmstads in 1998 and scored 72 goals in 325
games. Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger wanted Ljungberg to stay but the
30-year-old said: "It was the right time to go. "It was a difficult decision
but when Thierry Henry left it felt like the end. I am coming here to build
a great team and I am looking forward to it."
Ljungberg, who was Arsenal's longest serving player, struggled with injury
last season and played just 26 games. His former team-mate Henry left to
join Barcelona in June and Ljungberg revealed his growing frustration at the
Emirates Stadium. "Two years ago when I signed my last contract we talked a
lot about the future and about bringing great players to the club,"
Ljungberg explained. "Despite building the new stadium we wanted to stay top
in England and do well in Europe. For me that didn't really happen."
And the Sweden captain says he is relishing beginning the new season at
Upton Park. "When I spoke to Arsene Wenger, he wanted me to stay," Ljungberg
added. "But, at the same time, I feel it had to be something very, very
special for me to leave. "For me it is about why I wanted to join West Ham,
not why I wanted to leave Arsenal. "The reason I wanted to join is because
of West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson. "He wants to take West Ham to the top
of the country. He is willing to go on the market and buy great players and
mix them with youth players from the academy. "I am really happy to be here
and he wants me to help take this club forward. It feels like a big
challenge and I am really happy with it."
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley feels he was able to sign Ljungberg because
of the other players who have arrived at the club this summer. "We spoke to
Freddie over the last week and we tried to sell him the club and what we are
about," Curbishley said. He has seen other players come in and push us
forward."
"Freddie brings Champions League experience, being captain of Sweden and
that he is versatile but the biggest thing is that there is a hunger there."
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Fifa may not rule on Tevez saga - BBC
By Saj Chowdhury
Fifa said it may not have the authority to intervene in the Carlos Tevez
saga. Manchester United and West Ham have asked world football's governing
body to settle a dispute over who owns the 23-year-old Argentine striker.
Ahead of the meeting with the Football Association's legal team, Fifa's
Andreas Herren told BBC Sport: "We will find out if we can rule on the
matter. He added: "Monday's meeting is more of a fact-finding mission -
nothing will be decided." The Tevez dispute revolves around his ownership,
with suitors Manchester United unsure who to pay a reported £30m fee. Tevez
is registered as a West Ham player, but businessman Kia Joorabchian claims
he owns the striker's economic rights and is therefore entitled to any
transfer fee.
However, the Hammers ripped up an agreement they had with Joorabchian -
which broke Premier League rules - and they now claim any deal with United
can only go ahead with their say-so. The Premier League is also insisting
that any fee must go to West Ham. However, Herren said that Fifa does not
have such a strict ruling on third-party ownership in contrast to the
Premier League. "I know third-party ownership is not favoured in England,
but national legislation varies from one country to another and we do not
specifically look after the interests of one country's football
organisation," added Herren. "According to our lawyers, Fifa does not carry
such an explicit prohibition of third-party ownership as in England."
If Fifa opts to take on the case then the organisation's Dispute Resolution
Chamber (DRC) will come into play. "The DRC will only be employed once the
Fifa administration has analysed the case and the documentation has been
submitted by all parties," said Herren. "It is made up of the player's and
the club's representatives in order to ensure all parties are represented."
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Anton up for fight - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Anton Ferdinand has revealed that he is looking forward to the challenge of
retaining his first team spot next season. Ferdinand, who along with Matthew
Upson, Calum Davenport, James Collins and Danny Gabbidon will be fighting
for the two available central defensive spots revealed that he wasn't phased
by the competition - and that he still saw his long-term future with the
Hammers. "I definitely want to stay," he said. "I would not be at the club
now if that was not the case. "I am happy to fight because if you're not
playing well, you know you are not going to be playing the following week.
"It will be tough for me to get into the team - but that is what will make
the club reach the heights that it deserves."
Ferdinand broke into the first team during United's most recent spell in the
Championship, three seasons ago. However a series of off-field incidents
last season had left the 21-year-old defender facing the chop.
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Right said Fred - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Freddie Ljungberg has cited Eggert Magnusson's ambitious plans as the main
reason behind him joining the Hammers. Ljungberg, who was unveiled at a
press conference this afternoon as Alan Curbishley's fifth summer signing
revealed that the Chairman's future plans were enough to lure him across the
capital.
I'm coming here because I want to build a great team," he told a packed
Boleyn Ground press conference. "I want to join because of Magnusson. He
wants to bring [West Ham United] forward to be top of the country. "He's
willing to go to the transfer market to buy top players and mix them with
youth players. West Ham have a great academy. "He wants to help take the
club up and take them to the top in England. It's a big challenge for me."
Ljungberg also revealed that his decision to leave Arsenal - with whom he
had spent the last nine years - was partly due to the failure to build on
recent successes, and the departure of friend and former captain Thierry
Henry. "Two years ago when I signed my last contract we talked a lot about
the future and about bringing great players to the club," he said. "But for
me that didn't really happen. "I stayed because I wanted to stay loyal to
Arsenal. But when Henry left this summer it felt like the end for me
unfortunately. I wanted to be loyal - but I felt like it was the right time.
"I've been there for nine years and it had to be something very, very
special for me to leave. "I want to go forward and, with the people I have
around me, I think it's going to be really good."
Ljungberg's former boss, Arsene Wenger, also wished the Swede the best of
luck in a farewll message on arsenal.com this afternoon. "Freddie's
contribution was absolutely outstanding," said Wenger. "His performances
over the past nine seasons have been a major part of the Club's successes
during this time.
"He is an intelligent player and always combined this well with his
fantastic fighting spirit. We thank Freddie for his contribution and wish
him well for the future."
30-year-old Ljungberg joins United on a four year contract for a fee that
could be worth up to £3m.
West Ham United: business so far
INS: Scott Parker (Newcastle United £7m); Julien Faubert (Bordeaux £6.1m);
Richard Wright (Everton, free); Craig Bellamy (Liverpool £7.5m); Freddie
Ljungberg (Arsenal, £3m) - Total £23.6m.
OUTS: Teddy Sheringham (released); Roy Carroll (released); Shaun Newton
(Leicester City, free); Tyrone Mears (Derby County, £1m); Nigel Reo-Coker
(Aston Villa, £8.5m); Paul Konchesky (Fulham, £2m); Yossi Benayoun
(Liverpool, £4.5m); Marlon Harewood (Aston Villa, £4.5m) - Total £20.5m.
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Ferdinand to fight for place - Sky
By James Pearson - Created on 23 Jul 2007
Anton Ferdinand has no intention of quitting West Ham in search of
first-team football. Ferdinand is not guaranteed to play with the likes of
Lucas Neill, Matthew Upson, Daniel Gabbidon, James Collins and Calum
Davenport all vying for starting places. When asked whether competitions for
places maybe too fierce for Ferdinand, the 22-year-old immediately quashed
talk he could leave Upton Park. In fact, Ferdinand believes the scrap for
regular first-team football will aid the club's quest to climb up the
Premier League ladder. "I definitely want to stay at West Ham," he is quoted
in the Daily Star. "I would not be at the club now if that was not the case.
"I am happy to fight because if you're not playing well, you know you are
not going to be playing the following week. "It will be tough for me to get
into the team but that is what will make the club reach the heights that it
deserves."
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Hammers eye Rams raid - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 23 Jul 2007
Skysports.com understands West Ham are lining up a move for Derby star Giles
Barnes. The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the best young talents in
English football after impressing at Derby. Barnes enjoyed a sparkling
season for The Rams last term helping them secure promotion to the Premier
League.
The exciting midfielder has attracted the interest of a host of clubs
because of his progress at Pride Park. Derby are keen to keep hold of
Barnes, but they could find it hard to turn down a big-money offer for the
player. West Ham are now thought to be ready to test Derby's resolve to hang
onto the teenager by making a firm offer for Barnes. Hammers boss Alan
Curbishley is keen to add to his midfield options after losing new signing
Julien Faubert to injury and seeing Yossi Benayoun leave for Liverpool.
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Hammers to land Freddie
By Peter ORourke - Created on 23 Jul 2007
West Ham are expected to announce the signing of Freddie Ljungberg on
Monday. The Hammers have called a press conference for Monday afternoon
where they are expected to unveil Ljungberg as their latest new signing.
West Ham made a move for Arsenal ace Ljungberg after losing new signing
Julien Faubert to a serious Achilles injury. Upton Park boss Alan Curbishley
has been keen to bolster his midfield options after losing Yossi Benayoun to
Liverpool and he has moved to lure Ljungberg across London. Ljungberg's
future at Arsenal has been the subject of speculation all summer with the
Swede not guaranteed a regular spot in Arsene Wenger's side. Fiorentina and
Manchester City had been linked with the attacking midfielder, but it
appears West Ham have won the race for the 30-year-old's signature.
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Hammers confirm Freddie deal - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 23 Jul 2007
West Ham have confirmed the signing of Freddie Ljungberg from Arsenal. The
30-year-old has completed his move to Upton Park after agreeing personal
terms and passing a medical. The move ends a nine-year spell at Arsenal for
Ljungberg who joined the club from Halmstads in 1998. The Swedish
international struggled with injuries last season and Arsenal have decided
to let him move on as he could not be guaranteed a regular spot in Arsene
Wenger's side. Ljungberg becomes West Ham's fifth new signing of the summer
and he will help bolster Alan Curbishley's midfield options following the
injury to Julien Faubert and the departure of Yossi Benayoun to Liverpool.
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Eggert expects Tevez exit - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 23 Jul 2007
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson has conceded he expects Carlos Tevez to
leave Upton Park. Manchester United have lined up a deal to sign the
Argentine international, but the move has been held up over a wrangle over
Tevez's ownership. West Ham and Tevez's representatives are at loggerheads
over the player's contract with United waiting to see if the forward can
make the move to Old Trafford before the start of the season. Fifa, the FA
and the Premier League are due to meet to discuss Tevez's contract situation
with West Ham and the player's representatives are keen for the issue to be
resolved one way or the other. West Ham have been resolute in their bid to
keep Tevez, but Magnusson has now admitted the Argentine international looks
set to move on. "At the moment, he's our player but he wants to play in the
Champions League," Magnusson told Swedish daily Aftonbladet. I think he will
be leaving soon."
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Freddie questions Arsenal's ambition - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 23 Jul 2007
Freddie Ljungberg has questioned Arsenal ambition after leaving the club for
West Ham. The Swede, who was the club's longest serving player prior to his
move to Upton Park, felt the time was right to move on after nine years in
North London. Ljungberg admitted the departure of Thierry Henry played a
part in his decision to leave and he also questioned the club's failure to
match his own ambitions by bringing in new players. "Two years ago when I
signed my last contract we talked a lot about the future and about bringing
great players to the club," said Ljungberg. "Despite building the new
stadium we wanted to stay top in England and do well in Europe. "For me that
didn't really happen. "I stayed because I wanted to stay loyal to Arsenal.
But when Henry left this summer it felt like the end for me unfortunately.
"I felt like all the unbeaten players (from Arsenal's 'invincibles' of
2003/04) had left. I wanted to be loyal but I felt like it was the right
time. Despite his doubts over Arsenal's plans for the future, Ljungberg
admitted it was a wrench to leave the club. "I've been there for nine years,
almost 10 years," continued Ljungberg. "It's a big thing for me and I feel
it in my heart a little bit. "When I spoke to the boss, he wanted me to
stay.
"But at the same time, I feel it had to be something very, very special for
me to leave. "I want to go forward and, with the people I have around me, I
think it's going to be really good."
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Eggert wants quick Fifa decision - Sky
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 23 Jul 2007
Eggert Magnusson has called for a swift decision in the Carlos Tevez case,
following a meeting between Fifa, the Football Association and the Premier
League.
West Ham United and Manchester United have asked Fifa to arbitrate on
Tevez's contractual situation as the Argentine seeks a move to Old Trafford.
The striker is registered to The Hammers, but his agent Kia Joorabchian owns
his economic rights, with the sticking point being who is entitled to any
transfer fee.
Fifa officials met with counterparts from the FA and the Premier League on
Monday, although no immediate decision was reached. An FA spokesman said:
"The meeting has taken place and left with Fifa to take a decision. "We are
waiting to hear from them and to see what they consider is the most
appropriate way forward."
Hammers chairman Magnusson has already conceded that he expects Tevez to be
leaving Upton Park before the close of the transfer window. And, speaking as
he presented Freddie Ljungberg as a new signing, Magnusson urged the need
for a quick resolution to the matter. Magnusson said: "There is nothing I've
heard today. "Fifa have to decide if they have jurisdiction over the matter
and I hope so. "The sooner for everybody, the better."
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Hammers wrap up Ljungberg signing - This Is London
23.07.07
West Ham have completed the signing of Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg.
The Sweden international, 30, had been the Gunners' longest serving player
after costing Arsene Wenger's side £3million in 1998 from Halmstads.
Ljungberg joins long time team-mate and star striker Thierry Henry, who
signed for Barcelona in June, in leaving the club this summer. The
midfielder played 325 times for Arsenal, scoring 72 goals, but lost his grip
on a starting spot last season. He now joins Julien Faubert, Scott Parker,
Craig Bellamy and Richard Wright in moving to Upton Park since the Hammers'
dramatic last-day survival last season. Ljungberg said he left Arsenal
because he felt like "it was the end" for the club as he knew it following
Henry's move. "Two years ago when I signed my last contract we talked a lot
about the future and about bringing great players to the club. Despite
building the new stadium we wanted to stay top in England and do well in
Europe. "For me that didn't really happen. "I stayed because I wanted to
stay loyal to Arsenal. But when Henry left this summer it felt like the end
for me unfortunately. "I felt like all the unbeaten players (from Arsenal's
'invincibles' of 2003/04) had left. I wanted to be loyal but I felt like it
was the right time. But Ljungberg also insisted there were positive reasons
behind his decision and insisted he shared owner Eggert Magnusson's vision.
"I'm coming here because I want to build a great team. "And why I want to
join is because of Magnusson. He wants to bring them forward to be top of
the country. "He's willing to go to the transfer market to buy top players
and mix them with youth players. West Ham have a great academy. "He wants to
help take the club up and take them to the top in England. It's a big
challenge for me."
Ljungberg claimed it had been a real wrench to leave Arsenal and that
manager Arsene Wenger had tried to convince him to stay. "I've been there
for nine years, almost 10 years," he said. "It's a big thing for and I feel
it in my heart a little bit. "When I spoke to the boss, he wanted me to
stay. "But at the same time, I feel it had to be something very, very
special for me to leave. "I want to go forward and, with the people I have
around me, I think it's going to be really good."
Hammers boss Alan Curbishley believes Ljungberg was lured after seeing the
other moves the club have made in the transfer market this summer. "We spoke
to Freddie over the last week and we tried to sell him the club and what
we're about," Curbishley said. "He's seen players come in a and push us
forward."
As for Ljungberg's own qualities, Curbishley added: "He brings a few things,
Champions League experience, captain of Sweden, he's versatile. "There's a
hunger there. He wants to come and push West Ham on and be partly
responsible for that. "He's joining another terrific club and that's the way
he's got to see it. "He understands the passion of the club and the passion
of the fans and I'm sure he'll be a big hit here." Magnusson was also asked
about developments in the Carlos Tevez transfer saga, with FIFA today
deciding whether they can arbitrate in the dispute over his proposed move to
Manchester United. "There is nothing I've heard today," the chairman said.
"FIFA have to decide if they have jurisdiction over the matter and I hope
so. "The sooner for everybody, the better."
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Hammers set to unveil Ljungberg
Hammers call press conference for 2pm
Staff and agencies
Monday July 23, 2007
Guardian Unlimited
West Ham have called a press conference for 2pm, when they are expected to
unveil Freddie Ljungberg as their fifth signing of the close season. The
Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet quotes Hammers chairman Eggert Magnusson as
confirming his interest in the Arsenal midfielder, who has also been linked
with a move to Italian club Fiorentina. "We're definitely interested,"
confirmed the Icelandic biscuit baron. "I hope things will work out
positively. Other than that I can't comment. You can draw your own
conclusions from that."
Ljungberg, 30, is the Gunners' longest serving player, having joined them
from Halmstad in 1998 for £3m. He was an instant hit at Highbury and boasts
a goalscoring record of 72 in 325 games for the club. As well as hinting at
the signing of the Sweden international, Magnusson suggested Carlos Tevez's
controversial transfer to Manchester United is imminent. "At the moment,
he's our player but he wants to play in the Champions League. I think he
will be leaving soon," he said.
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MAGNUSSON EXPECTS TEVEZ TO GO - Sporting Life
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson has admitted he thinks Carlos Tevez "will
be leaving soon". Representatives of FIFA, the FA and the Premier League are
due to meet to discuss the saga of Tevez's proposed move to Manchester
United. The transfer has ground to a halt amid a deluge of legal arguments
over who owns the player's registration. The Argentina striker's advisor Kia
Joorabchian last week accused West Ham of saying one thing in private and
another in public in their stance on the Tevez ownership issue, something
the Upton Park club strenously deny. But Magnusson has admitted he doesn't
expect Tevez to stay. He told Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet: "At the moment,
he's our player but he wants to play in the Champions League. "I think he
will be leaving soon."
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After all the Tevez Argie-bargy, are the new-look West Ham on track for
Europe? - Sportigo
Mon, Jul 23, 07 08:10Ralph Little
Benayoun and Reo-Coker have gone, but with Bellamy and Parker aboard and
Dean Ashton fit, Alan Curbishley's men still have the pedigree to compete
with the likes of Spurs, Newcastle, Everton and Aston Villa. . 'West Ham are
a big side in every sense of the word who should consider, and no doubt
hope, that last season was a hiccup and nothing more' Much, if not all, of
West Ham's media coverage this summer has revolved around the Carlos Tevez
saga - but there are signs that under the guidance of Alan Curbishley and
Eggert Magnússon, the Hammers are on the up.
Following a pretty disastrous season, an exceptional late run of form saved
the Hammers from Championship oblivion. As a result, one could be forgiven
for thinking that the impending departure of Tevez (face it, it's going to
happen, let's hope that they do at least get the money for him) plus Yossi
Benayoun's move to Liverpool would signal another season flirting with
relegation. However, I think things could go the other way with the East
London side.
After a sticky start, Curbishley seems to have swung the players round to
his way of thinking and Icelandic chairman Magnusson has certainly put his
money where his mouth is by forking out an amazing £35m plus since January.
So why shouldn't Hammers fans be thinking positive thoughts?
Having removed the troubling but still influencial Nigel Reo-Coker, they
have brought in Scott Parker who on his day can play at the highest level
with the best of them.
Craig Bellamy may not be many people's cup of tea, but the Welshman can,
and does, score goals. His attitude is the problem so let's hope he can keep
that in check as he may just be on his last warning. It might be a problem
finding another club to take him on should he let his questionable
temperament get the better of him yet again.
Defensively, West Ham have shored up many holes. Lucas Neil may not be worth
the astronomical wages he is currently being paid, but he is a solid
defender (watch that yellow-card count, though). Matthew Upson has only
managed 40 minutes in claret and blue but there is no doubt that he, too, is
a top-quality defender looking to prove wrong those who thought his career
was in a rut.
With Dean Ashton well on the road to recovery, West Ham also have a
battle-axe of a striker who can get stuck in and get you a fair few goals.
His little-and-large combination with Bellamy could work well and if not,
Curbishley has his much-maligned, but nonetheless top scorer Bobby Zamora to
call on.
Having finished last term with seven wins from nine, there will be plenty in
the dressing room who believe West Ham are better than their 17th place
suggests. Many of their problems last season were morale related, from the
removal of Alan Pardew to the in-fighting that preceded it.
Therefore it stands to reason that if a set of players can see what they
managed to achieve against the top sides (wins at the Emirates and Old
Trafford may have come against weakened opposition but were nonetheless more
than most managed at these venues), then they are halfway to living up to
their potential.
I feel if everything goes their way, and they may well add more meat to
their already blossoming squad, then the Hammers could realistically
challenge for a UEFA Cup place, or a top-half finish at worst. Curbishley
worked for years, with a great deal of success, with a team whose sole
ambition was survival. Now he is in charge of a team that is expected to
survive and in many ways deserve far more.
I think West Ham fans can expect a huge improvement on last season, although
I say that with a certain sense of caution given that the season before
yielded an FA Cup Final and a top-half finish. It has long been considered
that the Premiership comprises a series of leagues within one. I think that
in the coming season, West Ham should expect themselves to be in the same
tier as the Newcastles, Evertons, Tottenhams and Boltons. I would imagine
that, given the money that is now being pumped into the club, the chairman
is expecting likewise - if not more.
West Ham are a big side in every sense of the word who should consider, and
no doubt hope, that last season was a hiccup and nothing more. In some ways
I am sure they would be keen to have the whole Tevez saga sorted out once
and for all, even if it does, as expected, spell the end of the Argentine
fairytale. Then at least the Hammers can get back on the rails and start
powering up the table.
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West Ham to miss out on £6 million midfielder - all3points.com
23rd July 2007
By Staff Writer
Arsenal are looking to hijack West Ham's attempts to sign Ghana
international Stephen Appiah. Appiah, who last week threatened to strike if
his current club Fernabache blocked his move to West Ham, has reportedly had
his head turned by the Gunners interest. The News of the World claims that
the Ghanaian captain now favours a move to Arsenal ahead of West Ham and
quotes a source close to the player as saying: "Arsenal are aware they will
have to pay between £6-8 million for Stephen. "That price was talked about
last January with Arsenal and it really won't be an issue."
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Hammers in bid for Pompey striker - all3points.com
23rd July 2007
By Staff Writer
West Ham are set to launch a bid for Portsmouth striker Lomana LuaLua
according to reports over the weekend. The Sunday Mirror claims that the
Hammers are lining up a move for LuaLua who started just 8 Premiership games
for Pompey last season. With Carlos Tevez set to follow Marlon Harewood out
of the West Ham exit door, the paper claims that boss Alan Curbishley wants
to give his remaining strikers further competition for places with the
addition of the Portsmouth man.
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FREDDIE LANDS EAST ENDERS ROLE - The Mirror
EXCLUSIVE
John Cross In Los Angeles 23/07/2007
FREDDIE Ljungberg will join big-spending West Ham today in a £5million deal.
Arsenal midfielder Ljungberg, 30, was given permission to fly home from the
club's training camp in Austria to discuss personal terms with the East
Enders. Ljungberg, who has two years left on his £60,000 contract with
Arsenal, wanted to stay with the Gunners but has been told that he has no
future at the club, Ljungberg has already turned down a move to Italian club
Fiorentina because they would not match his wage demands, but money is no
object to West Ham owner Eggert Magnusson. Ljungberg has become a bit-part
player at Arsenal and the club want to cut their wage bill, but were
struggling to find anyone who could match Ljungberg's wages and the £5m
transfer fee. But West Ham presented the perfect solution for Ljungberg who
wanted to stay in London as he prepares to launch his fashion label. West
Ham are still interested in Barcelona's Eidur Gudjohnsen as their spending
spree continues. However, Ljungberg is another major risk to Hammers boss
Alan Curbishley because of his injury-prone record.
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