Monday, March 31

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 31st March 2008

Sunderland 2-1 West Ham United FT - WHUFC
All the action as it happened from West Ham United's trip to the north-east
on Saturday afternoon
29.03.2008

Barclays Premier League
Stadium of Light
3pm
Referee: Andre Marriner

West Ham United: Green, Neill, Spector, Ferdinand, McCartney (Pantsil 46,
Tomkins 73), Ljungberg, Mullins, Parker, Noble, Cole (Solano 65), Ashton
Subs: Walker, Boa Morte

Sunderland: Gordon, Bardsley, Collins, Evans, Nosworthy. Murphy (O'Donovan),
Richardson (Edwards 69), Whitehead, Reid, Jones, Chopra (Leadbitter 70)
Subs: Fulop, Yorke

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Youths rampant against Reading - WHUFC
Junior Stanislas helped inspire Tony Carr's Under-18s to a fine home victory
at Little Heath on Saturday
29.03.2008

West Ham United Under-18s 4-0 Reading Under-18s

A dynamic first-half display from Tony Carr's youngsters saw them return to
winning ways on Saturday with all four goals coming in the first half.

The Academy side had lost 2-0 at Bristol City in their last outing but got
their bid for the Premier Academy League Group A title back on track with a
stunning display at Little Heath against another team from Group B. Goals
from schoolboy triallist Ahmed Abdulla, Anthony Edgar, Oliver Lee and
England Under-19 international Junior Stanislas in a 20-minute spell before
half-time did the damage.

Reading are traditionally strong at this level and arrived in fourth place
in Group B, having taken the runners-up spot last season. After a cagey
first 20 minutes, in which both teams had their moments, the deadlock was
finally broken when Ahmed Abdulla, a Saudi Arabian striker who has been with
Arsenal, was set free by Edgar. He stepped inside from the left and before
being closed down by two defenders bent the ball into the corner from 15
yards.

The advantage was soon doubled when Edgar tried his luck from the edge of
the penalty area with a low drilled effort that sped into the goal. The
third was not long in coming either. This time, dead-ball specialist
Stanislas - fresh from a run-out with the Young Lions in midweek - picked
out Lee with a corner and the midfielder flicked into the net. By then the
game was won, but the best was yet to come.

As the interval approached, the sublime Stanislas strode forward and, after
beating a couple of players, looked up to see the visiting goalkeeper just
off his line. He took a touch and then curled a lofted effort up and over
his head and into the back of the net. He continued to cause problems in the
second half and both he and Ahmed Abdulla had further opportunities to add
to their tallies.

The match was also noticeable for the strong defensive display with
16-year-old Adam Street continuing the fine form that he showed on his
reserve-team debut earlier this month - incidentally also against Reading in
a 2-0 victory - while Jordan Spence and Bondz N'Gala were imperious at
centre-back. N'Gala and Stanislas both came off on the hour as they are in
contention to figure for the reserves away to Chelsea on Monday night.

With two games to play, Carr's side are still in the hunt for the Group A
title although Arsenal are the favourites. The Gunners also won well on
Saturday with a 6-0 victory in their game against Group B visitors Cardiff
City and have two games in hand on United who only have two games left to
play.

West Ham United: Street, Brookes, Spence, N'Gala (Ashman 60), Miller, Harvey
(Okus 60), Kearns, Lee, Edgar, Stanislas (Montano 60), Ahmed Abdulla

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Youngsters in line for Portsmouth - WHUFC
Freddie Sears nearly played at Sunderland and Alan Curbishley should have
him back against Portsmouth
29.03.2008

Alan Curbishley hopes Freddie Sears will be fit when West Ham United return
to Barclays Premier League action against Portsmouth on Tuesday week - the
first of four home games in the final six of the season.

The 18-year-old striker missed Saturday's disappointing 2-1 reverse at
Sunderland with a groin injury although very nearly made the trip to the
north-east. "Freddie Sears should be OK for the next game," the manager
said. "He nearly made it but we didn't think it was worth risking."
Curbishley was also pleased to see that James Tomkins "got a bit more"
experience at the Stadium of Light - and both youngsters could figure
heavily before 11 May with some new names added to the casualty list.

Against Sunderland, George McCartney and Freddie Ljungberg, who had put the
visitors into an early lead before goals from Kenwyne Jones and Andy Reid
edged it for the hosts, picked up hamstring injuries. Also, John Pantsil had
concussion and Carlton Cole suffered a sore foot early on and "was limping
around for most of the first half". Added to that, the manager confirmed the
likes of Matthew Etherington and Julien Faubert are unlikely to figure again
this season with the decision taken to get them in shape for pre-season.

Curbishley, who had travelled from east London with 17 fit players, said:
"We are completely stretched to the limit now. As I have said all season, it
has probably made us stronger but these boys have played every game week in,
week out or they are returning from injury and having to get fit in the
first team. It has been very difficult for us, they have done fantastically
well as I have been saying all season but it looked like we were a little
bit tired."

The manager had to make several changes throughout the game, with Lucas
Neill and Jonathan Spector appearing in both full-back roles, while the
latter had begun in the centre of defence. Further forward, Dean Ashton was
forced into a lone striker's role having begun impressively alongside Cole.
"We were pulling people all over the place and filling in, and to be fair I
thought we had done enough to get the point." The manager said he had no
complaints with the five minutes added time, although noted the goal "has
gone in on 96 minutes".

On that Reid winner, he added: "In the last minute or with 30 seconds to go
after giving it our lot we allowed Reid to get in between two people when it
was clearable. We are very disappointed. Round the dressing room there is
ice everywhere and disappointed bodies but we just have to get on with it.
It has been the story of our season - lots of people have been out injured
long term and the players that have been playing have had to play every week
without a break.

"We started brightly and got our goal and from that minute really we stopped
playing and perhaps took our foot off it or Sunderland came into it ... The
second half they put a lot of pressure on us without creating too much. They
had a good chance with ten minutes to go [through Daryl Murphy]. It is a
cruel game, I am sure Sunderland have found that out this season. For them
to win two on the spin is massive with five games to go and let's see if
they can go and do it."

While Sunderland look to make sure of their top-flight status, Curbishley is
still expecting his team to win the majority of their remaining games and
push on from tenth position. "They are very tired, we have had people on
international duty, Lucas Neill went to China, and quite a few of my players
played midweek which we could have done without but we have got a bit of a
break now.

"Let's see what we have got for the Portsmouth game but we are massively
disappointed because we want to finish as strongly as we can. We have been
in tenth position for a while - have got four out of six at home now and we
have got to get some wins, get some points on the board."

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Reserves in action on Monday - WHUFC
West Ham United travel to Chelsea on Monday for the first of their final
three league fixtures this season
30.03.2008

West Ham United's reserves can keep up their charge for the Barclays Premier
Reserve League on Monday but face a tricky away trip to Chelsea.

Kevin Keen's men have won their last five matches in a row and sit a point
above Aston Villa in the southern section table. However, Villa have two
games in hand and will be most neutrals' favourites to take the title. After
the trip to Brentford to tackle Chelsea, the final home game of the season
at Bishop's Stortford follows on Wednesday 9 April against Derby County
before the campaign ends at Arsenal on 21 April.

The league winners will go on to play the top team from the northern section
in a prestigious final on 7 May. While Keen will naturally be concerned with
his own side on Monday evening, he will no doubt be interested to learn
Villa's fate as they welcome rivals Birmingham City on the same night. Both
clubs have a strong youth policy with Villa newly-crowned champions in Group
B of the Premier Academy League for Under-18s and United, under the guidance
of Tony Carr, leading the way in Group A.

Kick-off at Griffin Park is 7pm and admission is £5 for adults and £3 for
concessions

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Home holds key for Curbishley
West Ham United had a disappointing weekend but still have plenty to play
for in the last six games
30.03.2008
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"You can build foundations by staying up and become a little bit more
attractive to players."

Alan Curbishley was speaking from experience as he explained the
significance of Sunderland's 2-1 defeat of his West Ham United side at the
Stadium of Light on Saturday. The manager is well aware of what it takes to
stay up, having masterminded a run of seven wins from the last nine games to
do just that last season. While his men were on the losing side at the
weekend, the foundations are already in place for the future - not least
with the emergence of talented teens to go with the established names.

Curbishley said: "Sunderland have gone for it and if they do stay up,
they've got their rewards for it because next year is another season ... I'm
sure they've had some cruel ends to games this year or haven't quite got
what they deserved but you make your own luck and, as I said to Roy [Keane],
'Well done. That's two great results on the spin and that's massive when
you're down the bottom'."

With six games to go, Curbishley knows his own team have every chance of
another run - especially as four of the last half-dozen fixtures are at the
Boleyn Ground. It may be that injuries, as at the weekend when four players
picked up knocks, take their toll but the manager prefers to focus on the
positives. While his side were on the receiving end of a last-gasp goal that
cost them a point, he pointed to the fact "we've done it a couple of times
ourselves this season".

Emphasising "great credit to the players that have been playing", he added:
"I talk about my team because they've done fantastically well considering
the problems we've had. It's just ridiculous the injury situation because we
had four centre-halves, two wide players and three strikers out etc etc.
I've got no complaints but it is frustrating because we've got a strong
squad but we've not been able to use it."

The manager has learned much from such problems, for example the way Anton
Ferdinand has coped with being the senior figure at centre-back since the
loss of Matthew Upson to injury. "I think Anton has done great, to be
honest," Curbishley said. "We started off with [Jonathan] Spector there,
then [James] Tomkins has had to come on and Specs has gone to left-back then
right-back. It's been very difficult for us.

"We'll have to see if Upson will be right for Portsmouth [on Tuesday week].
We don't want to put anyone at risk so we'll just have to see what we've got
... Obviously I was a bit disappointed that a lot of my players went off
this week [on international duty]. A lot of them have been playing week in,
week out and I've not been in a position to rest anybody and it looks as if
it'll be that way for the rest of the season."

It is this situation though that has allowed the manager to blood the likes
of Tomkins, Jack Collison and Freddie Sears this season. Tomkins celebrated
his 19th birthday at the Stadium of Light and the manager was pleased with
his contribution off the bench, claiming "we know we've got a player there".
He added: "I'm in a fortunate position where they can learn without it being
so vital. Freddie Sears, if he hadn't been injured, might have got a game as
well so we'll have a look at that in the next six games."

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Sunderland 2-1 West Ham - BBC
By Sarah Holt

A late goal from Andy Reid saw Sunderland pull further clear of the drop
zone with victory over West Ham. Sunderland fell behind when Carlton Cole
found Freddie Ljungberg whose deflected shot went in. But the goal fired up
the home side and Kenwyne Jones soon equalised, slotting in Daryl Murphy's
flick-on. Sunderland kept the upper hand with Murphy blazing the ball over
before Reid buried the ball in the dying minutes of the match. Sunderland
had the bit between their teeth right from the off and Michael Chopra came
close after four minutes when he skidded the ball across the face of the
goal West Ham gradually made their presence felt and Dean Ashton came very
close to scoring five minutes later. Scott Parker picked out Ashton, waiting
to pounce 20 yards out, but his right-footed drive clattered the post and
bounced away to safety. The Londoners did not have to wait long for the
breakthrough after a moment of hesitation in the Sunderland defence. Cole
teed up Ljungberg with a pass from the right and the Swede's strike weaved
its way into the net thanks to a slight deflection from Nyron Nosworthy.
Sunderland mustered an immediate response and West Ham were gradually pegged
back in their own half. An alert Anton Ferdinand had to head the ball away
as Jonny Evans loomed at his shoulder.
Sunderland's pressure soon paid off as Jones, back from a virus, scored his
first goal of 2008. Kieran Richardson looped the ball in to Murphy who
passed to Jones, in space inside the box, and he nonchalantly clipped it
beyond Robert Green. The Hammers defence argued that Jones was offside, but
replays showed the striker was just about level. West Ham were rattled, and
Sunderland tested Green again with shots from Chopra and Reid. But it was
Cole who nearly capped an entertaining half as he sent a curling shot
towards the top-right corner only to see Craig Gordon stretch and finger tip
t behind his post.
Sunderland were straight out of the blocks after the break and Jonathan
Spector had to react quickly to spear Murphy's shot over the bar. Then Danny
Collins, who missed a scoring chance in the first half, saw his header
cleared from underneath the bar by Lucas Neill. Reid and Richardson drove
Sunderland forward with the help of the vocal crowd but the West Ham defence
did enough to keep the rampant home side at bay. West Ham were hardly
getting a look in at the other end of the pitch and as the 60-minute mark
approached boss Alan Curbishley looked slightly bemused. Their best chance
came when a bad clearance by Gordon was picked up by Parker, who passed to
Ashton, but his flyer was wide of the mark. Things got worse for West Ham
when substitute John Pantsil had to go off with concussion after landing
badly on the left side of his face. His replacement, birthday boy James
Tomkins, was called immediately into action to punt clear Reid's effort and
soon after he saw his header flash wide. Sunderland were throwing everything
forward but just could not score. Murphy summed up their frustration when he
was put clear through by Jones only to skew his shot over the bar. While
West Ham's afternoon was encapsulated when they had to play out the final
minutes with 10 men when Ljungberg retired with a hamstring injury with all
three substitutions already made. Reid had the final say when he lashed his
right-footed shot beyond Green to earn Sunderland back-to-back Premier
League victories for the first time since December 2001.

Sunderland manager Roy Keane:I was happy at the end that we scored so late.
I thought we deserved it and it showed good character from the players.
"I thought we stood off West Ham a bit at first - I could have played easily
against them as we were nowhere near them. "But we just about edged it in
the second half. Can we get three in a row? Well miracles can happen."

West Ham manager Alan Curbishley: "I would have been delighted if we had
taken a battling point. Once we scored we seem to back off. "Then we lost
one player after another after another and we were reduced to 10 men. The
injury situation is chronic now. "We have to regroup now but I can't tell
you who I've got fit and available. Our injury situation has got worse."

Sunderland: Gordon, Bardsley, Nosworthy, Evans, Collins, Murphy (O'Donovan
81), Whitehead, Reid, Richardson (Edwards 70), Chopra (Leadbitter 71),
Jones.
Subs Not Used: Fulop, Yorke.

Booked: Reid, O'Donovan.

Goals: Jones 29, Reid 90.

West Ham: Green, Neill, Ferdinand, Spector, McCartney (Pantsil 46),
Ljungberg, Parker, Mullins, Noble, Cole (Solano 65), Ashton, Pantsil
(Tomkins 74).
Subs Not Used: Walker, Boa Morte.

Booked: Cole.

Goals: Ljungberg 18.

Att: 45,690

Ref: Andre Marriner (W Midlands).

BBC Sport Player Rater man of the match: Sunderland's Kenwyne Jones 7.83 (on
90 minutes).

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S'land 2 West Ham Utd 1 - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 29th March 2008
By: Staff Writer

West Ham's away day woes continued today as they went down 2-1 at Sunderland
thanks to a 96th minute winner from Andy Reid.

The former Charlton midfielder hit the winning goal six minutes into injury
time at the end of the game to condemn United to yet another defeat on their
travels.

However perhaps of more concern to Alan Curbishley was yet another fresh
batch of injuries; Carlton Cole (strain), Freddie Ljungberg (hamstring),
John Paintsil (concussion), Dean Ashton (ankle) and George McCartney all
suffered knocks in the game which left United with just ten men for the
final fifteen minutes.

Yet it had all started so positively for Alan Curbishley and his team; after
dampening Sunderland's early enthusiasm Freddie Ljungberg had given the
Hammers a deserved 18th minute lead when he fired home into Craig Gordon's
far post having been cleverly set up by Carlton Cole, back in the side after
injury.

Indeed, United's attacking 4-4-2 formation that started the game threatened
to go on and put the game beyond doubt before the break, but fortunately for
the Black Cats 'keeper Craig Gordon was enjoying a good day between the
sticks.

His 37th minute save from Carlton Cole's dipping, swerving 20-yard effort
was particularly memorable and certainly kept Sunderland's interest alive.

Despite West Ham's impressive first half performance Rob Green was still
called into action on a number of occasions - most notably to deny Andy Reid
and Michael Chopra.

But there was little the England keeper could to to prevent Kenwyn Jones
from equalising just ahead of the half hour mark when the big striker
converted Kieron Richardson's cross that had been diverted into his path by
Daryl Murphy.

An easier goal Jones will never score, and despite claims of offside from
West Ham's defence the goal was (rightly) allowed to stand - much to the
appreciation of the fervent home crowd, who had packed into the Stadium of
Light hoping to see their side put some daylight between themselves and the
relegation zone.

With the game evenly poised at the break it was all to play for in the
second half. However there appeared to be only one side that were intent on
winning it, and in the end the only surprise was that it took Sunderland so
long to find the goal that did so.

Roy Keane's side spent much of the second period camped inside United's half
and peppered Rob Green's goal with shots. However their profligacy - most
notably illustrated by Daryl Murphy's glaring 'open goal' fluff on 81
minutes - served to demostrate exactly why they are fighting relegation.

And but for the generosity of referee Andre Marriner - who allowed play to
continue beyond the allotted five minutes of injury time - they would have
been cursing yet another wasted opportunity tonight.

West Ham's chance of winning the game disappeared with the half time
whistle, and the first sign of problems for the Irons came before the
whistle for the second half had even been blown.

George McCartney had failed to reappear after the break so his place was
taken by John Paintsil, which meant Lucas Neill switching from right to
left-back.

Carlton Cole - who had been limping since the half hour mark - was finally
substituted after 65 minutes with Sunderland running rampant.

The introduction of his replacement, Nobby Solano was meant to frustrate and
impede the home side due to the extra man in the middle - but it was a plan
that simply failed to work as the Black Cats continued to run the game.

Further misery for the visitors came on 74 minutes when John Paintsil was
involved in a sickening collision with team mate Jonathan Spector leaving
the Ghanaian barely conscious.

His replacement, birthday boy James Tomkins (19 today) moved into the centre
of defence which meant yet another re-shuffle as Spector (who had
fortunately escaped unharmed) stepped in at right-back - United's third of
the afternoon.

By this time Curbishley had used all his substitutes, and when Dean Ashton
went down on 83 minutes clutching his (previously broken) ankle everyone
feared the worst. However the striker bravely returned to the pitch after a
brief liaison with the magic sponge - even though he was clearly less than
100 per cent.

Yet there was still more to come; Freddie Ljungberg, who had set off in
chase of a long ball down the line pulled up sharply before going down
clutching his thigh in agony.

It was a desperately familiar sight, and the hamstring injury may well have
prematurely ended the Swedish captain's season. Of more immediate concern
was that the Hammers were left with ten men on the pitch, and one of those
(Ashton) was at best walking wounded.

Despite the seriously adverse conditions it seemed as if the Hammers had
done just about enough to salvage a point that, in truth, they barely
deserved.

That was until Andy Reid, the target of much abuse from the travelling fans
due to his less than athletic build fired home the winning goal with
virtually the last kick of the game after pouncing on a loose ball in West
Ham's penalty box.

That the goal arrived on precisely 95 minutes 26 seconds - with the
referee's assistant having signalled five minutes of injury time some
moments before - riled Alan Curbishley, who launched a scathing attack on
match official Marriner after the game (more on that later).

But it was no less than his team had deserved after a second half
performance that, to put not too fine a point on it, stunk - even with the
injury concerns taken into consideration.

The defeat means that all the Hammers have to play for now this season is a
top half finish, whilst a win for Tottenham tomorrow could narrow the gap
between the two sides to just two points.

However after five years of nailbiting final days perhaps that's not such a
bad thing after all...

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Reid secures vital Cats win - SSN
Black Cats secure vital three points
Last updated: 29th March 2008

Sunderland took a massive step towards Premier League survival thanks to
Andy Reid's late, late goal. The Hammers deservedly went in front through
Freddie Ljungberg on 18 minutes after his shot was deflected past Craig
Gordon by Nyron Nosworthy. But the Black Cats got back on level terms
through a Kenwyne Jones' tap-in on 29 minutes after Daryl Murphy back-heeled
a Kieran Richardson cross into his path. Sunderland dominated the second
half and Murphy blasted over an open goal before Reid won it with a
left-footed volley with virtually the last kick of the game. The visitors
might have taken the lead with just 10 minutes gone when former Newcastle
skipper Scott Parker turned up on the left edge of the penalty area to
square the ball to Dean Ashton. The striker needed no second invitation as
he deftly side-footed the ball past Gordon, only to see it come back off the
upright. Sunderland's respite, however, was only temporary, and they fell
behind eight minutes later, largely as a result of their inability to clear
their lines. Carlton Cole made the most of hesitation in the Wearsiders'
defence to lay the ball off for Ljungberg, whose firm shot struck Nosworthy
on its way into the bottom corner. But Roy Keane's men responded swiftly and
having previously wasted a series of good openings with poor final balls,
they eventually made the pressure tell.
Richardson found space on the left to drill a low cross in towards the near
post, where Murphy flicked on for Jones to score from point-blank range.
The Hammers could not believe an offside flag did not put a stop to the
Trinidad and Tobago international's celebrations, but replays showed the
officials got a close call right. Michael Chopra and Reid both tested Robert
Green as Sunderland took control, but it was Gordon who had to pull off a
vital fingertip save eight minutes before the break to keep out Cole's
curling effort. Danny Collins headed a 43rd-minute Reid cross wide, but the
home side were grateful for referee Andre Marriner's lenience on the stroke
of half-time when Parker went down under Nosworthy's challenge inside the
box and the official waved play on. Sunderland, and Murphy in particular,
emerged for the second half in determined fashion with the Irishman forcing
a smart save from Green seconds before defender Jonathan Spector hurriedly
hacked his cross away at the near post.
Lucas Neill was then in the right place at the right time when he hacked
Collins' 54th-minute header off the line. Keane made a double change with 19
minutes remaining when he replaced Richardson and Chopra with Carlos Edwards
and Grant Leadbitter, but it was Murphy who should have won it 10 minutes
later. Jones muscled his way into the penalty area to cross for his strike
partner 10 yards out, but he fired high over as the Hammers escaped.
Ljungberg's afternoon ended in agony when he was stretchered off with a
hamstring injury which left his side to play out the closing stages with 10
men.
But then substitute Edwards' 88th-minute cross flew across goal, where
fellow replacement James Tomkins got a crucial touch to deny Jones a winner.

However, there was nothing Tomkins or anyone else could do to deny Reid when
he raced on to Anton Ferdinand's header and blasted a shot past Green.

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Curbishley bemoans injuries - SSN
Injuries add to Curbishley's woes
Last updated: 29th March 2008

West Ham boss Alan Curbishley was disappointed after his injury-hit Hammers
lost 2-1 to Sunderland. The Hammers deservedly went in front through Freddie
Ljungberg on 18 minutes after his shot was deflected past Craig Gordon by
Nyron Nosworthy. But the Black Cats got back on level terms through Kenwyne
Jones' tap-in on 29 minutes. Sunderland then dominated the second half and
Daryl Murphy blasted over an open goal before Andy Reid won it with a
left-footed volley with virtually the last kick of the game. Curbishley
believed "the week's took its toll" as his small squad had lost players to
international duty midweek, coupled with injuries during the game and
finishing with 10 men as Ljungberg had to go off with a hamstring injury
after they had used all their subs. He added his team had defended
fantastically but in the last minute were not in the right areas. "We should
have been in the right areas, Reid couldn't have got his shot off and we
would have come away with a point," he said. Before the game, Curbishley had
spoken of the importance of going in front but he believed taking the lead
had in fact worked the other way.
"Funnily enough I think, once we scored, we lost the initiative," he said. I
think we started brightly and looked purposeful and passed it quite well and
got our goal and then sort of sat off it a little bit and Sunderland were
eager all afternoon, put us under a bit of pressure and got back into it
really not too long after we scored. "And the second half as the injuries
were coming along and constant change, obviously I'd have been delighted to
have got out of it with a point."
While five minutes of injury time were announced at the end, Curbishley
bemoaned: "But I think they've scored in the 96th-and-a-half minute and
sometimes you win and sometimes you lose but I'm really disappointed with
how he's come up with 96-and-a-half minutes. "But I think today probably
sums up what has happened to us, the injuries. 17 fit men we had here today
and we lose two or three and go down to 10 men - it's been a long season."
He said Carlton Cole took a knock in the first half and was limping around,
then John Pantsil had to be replaced and is concussed and then Ljungberg had
to come off injured. "It would have been a battling point in the end and I
think we'd have been delighted with that but it's a cruel game sometimes.
"Sunderland in their position couldn't have wished for more - they've ended
up taking the three points - two big wins they've had now so they have got a
lot to play for. "We have got to regroup, we have got a bit of a break and
then they come thick and fast again but I can't tell you who I've got fit
and available for the next game."
Asked what the objective is, he said: "To finish as high as we can.
Unfortunately quite a lot of those players who have been playing today have
been playing all season and have not been able to get a break because of the
injury situation and it has just got worse there. "So I am hoping one or two
people will come back over the next ten days and give us a bit of a lift and
give me a problem for team selection."

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Vinny's Sunderland Report - West Ham Online
Vinny - Sun Mar 30 2008

Sunderland 2 West Ham United 1

Andy Reid's stoppage time goal gave Sunderland all three points in a game
which was there for the taking, but our second half performance was non
existent and we did not compete enough to deserve much more than we got.

It was cruel the way we conceded, with regards to it being in the fifth
minute of injury time, but it is hard to say that Sunderland didn't deserve
it after they put in a hard working performance full of effort but lacking
in quality in that final third.

The first twenty minutes saw West Ham play some of the best football we have
played this season, with the side looking very attacking minded and creating
lots of opportunities. When we did get the goal we sat back and Sunderland
overran us for the rest of the game leaving this to be one of those what
could have been games.

Alan Curbishley made a few changes to the side which battled for a point at
Everton last week. In defence, James Tomkins was dropped to the bench in
favour of Jonathan Spector who went to center half alongside Anton
Ferdinand.

Up front, Dean Ashton was alongside Carlton Cole who replaced Luis Boa
Morte. Freddie Sears and Bobby Zamora were both injured.

There have been many times this season when it has been us who have started
the game on the back foot and this usually results in the opposition taking
the lead, but it was all change in this one as we came out of the traps
fastest with Sunderland chasing shadows for the first twenty minutes.

With Noble on the left and Ljungberg on the right we were using our width
well with both players seeing a lot of the ball. Cole and Ashton were doing
a lot of running and using their strength up against the physical defence
Sunderland possess.

Our first chance of the game came when we were on the counter attack and
Scott Parker picked out Dean Ashton who, from outside the area tried a
wonderful attempt which beat the keeper but crashed off the post and was
cleared.

With lots of possession in their half it was no surprise that we took the
lead on the 18 minute mark after more pressure was applied in the Sunderland
area. Carlton Cole played a pass to Freddie Ljungberg who was allowed time
and space to hit a low shot which took a slight deflection and flew into the
back of the net.

Sunderland responded well to going a goal down and put a lot of pressure on
our defence who were dealing with the problems but it always seemed as
though they were 'just' about getting there. It was very last gasp and with
our midfield disappearing, our backline was coming under immense pressure.

Sunderland forced many corners, and most were dealt with by Robert Green
very well, but I was never really confident that a goal wasn't going to be
conceded with the way were had sat back.

More last gasp defending prevented Evans from scoring and a free kick was
whipped into the area only for Anton Ferdinand to somehow stretch for the
ball and head away.

Our lead only lasted 10 minutes as Sunderland equalised with a horror
defensive showing from our point of view. Richardson got down the left hand
side and put a good cross in for Murphy to steer into the path of Jones who
was practically on the goal line as he tapped into the net. Our players
protested to the linesman whose flag did not go up, and after seeing
replays, you can see why.

We were rattled and on the back foot now, and Michael Chopra really should
have done better with an effort from just inside the box as our defence just
watched him ghost into the area with the ball.
I always thought we looked dangerous on the break and we nearly regained our
lead through a moment of brilliance from Carlton Cole who cut inside and
curled a wonderful shot toward the top corner only for Craig Gordon to make
a stunning save.

Another half chance came our way when a ball was played into the area
towards Scott Parker. The midfielder only had to leave the ball for Mark
Noble who was just behind him and would have surely scored, but instead he
went looking for the penalty and expected a foul which never came. In the
end, the ball fell to Ljungberg who shot way over the bar.

The second half was all Sunderland's and our performance was way short with
us hanging on for the majority of the second period.

There were some positive aspects to our second half but with an defence
which was changing around every ten minutes it was very hard to get settled.
At half time, George McCartney was taken off and replaced by John Pantsil.
This saw Lucas Neill go to left back with Pantsil at right back.

Sunderland had the first chance of a tense second half with Danny Collins
heading towards goal from a corner, only for Neill to clear off the line.

As an attacking force, we were non existent and only a Dean Ashton shot
which went well wide could be called an attempt.

We just couldn't keep possession and Curbishley needed to make a change to
try and stop Sunderland from running us ragged like they were doing.

Carlton Cole was taken off with Nolberto Solano replacing him. Being an
ex-Newcastle favourite, Solano didn't receive the warmest of reception.

For about a ten minute period we seemed to have weathered the storm that
Sunderland had created but rather than build on that we went the other way
and got worse with too many mis-placed passes being played.

John Pantsil went up for a header and seemed to collide with Spector. This
saw Pantsil taken off with what seemed like concussion. On in his place was
Tomkins who went to center half, with Spector going to right back as the
defence had to shuffle itself yet again.

Tomkins made a similar mistake to the one against Everton when he went for a
header but was easily brushed off the ball for Jones to burst into the area
and pick out the unmarked Murphy who blazed over the bar in what was surely
one of the misses of the season.

With ten minutes remaining, Freddie Ljungberg went chasing for a long pass
and went to ground clutching his hamstring. With all subs used by Alan
Curbishley, we would have to play out the final ten minutes with ten men.

With five minutes added time awarded (and probably fair given the amount of
stoppages) it seemed as though we were going to secure a point and by that
time I think most West Ham fans would have been happy with that given the
pressure Sunderland had put on us.

But in typical West Ham fashion we would concede in those final five minutes
and of course it was the very final minute which we would lose a game which
I believe we really could have won. A hopeful punt into the area found the
head of Ferdinand but his head only found Andy Reid who volleyed into the
goal giving Green no chance.

What we showed in the first 20 minutes was some quality, which I have been
disappointed with the lack of this campaign. It was very disappointing to
see us take the lead and sit back and invite Sunderland onto us which they
accepted.

Player Reviews

Robert Green
His catching was excellent and his kicking was also very good. Nothing he
could do about either of the goals and will be very disappointed that he
actually conceded two.

Lucas Neill
Played as a left back for most of the second half and didn't look
comfortable using his left foot at every occasion. This wasn't a terrible
performance from Neill who was on the end of some harsh decisions from a
very picky ref.

Anton Ferdinand
A mixed bag from Anton who flirted between the sublime and the ordinary
throughout this game. There were moments when he would show some excellent
defending and others where he would panic and get himself into trouble. His
header to prevent Evans was superb, yet his header to Reid cost us the goal.

Jonathan Spector
A poor right back and our 6th choice center half. This says it all because
he is those things for a reason and that is because he lacks quality.
Ferdinand covered for him on multiple occasions in the first half and
although Spector does give everything for the cause, playing this type of
player will never win you game and will only hinder your progress.

George McCartney
Against his former club, he played well during the first half but was taken
off with what must have been an injury at half time. I do not know the
extent of his injury but it would be a big blow if he was to be out for
long.

Freddie Ljungberg
Like the team, he started well, got a goal and then just faded away and got
injured.

Scott Parker
Must have been our most involved player as he always seemed to be on the
ball making passes and tackles. He still doesn't look 100% match sharp and
he was guilty of a number of mis placed passes. Moved forward with the ball
well and was always looking for a pass but the execution was often off.

Hayden Mullins
I forgot he was playing in the second half as Sunderland totally overran our
midfield which looked lost. Mullins was non existant and I had thought he
had done well in the first half as he got much closer to the Sunderland
players and was making some good interceptions. But he may as well have been
in the changing room for the second half because he did nothing.

Mark Noble
Like Mullins, I remember him in the first half but if you told me that Noble
was not even on the pitch for the second period, I would probably believe
you.

Carlton Cole
Another player who was always involved and put himself about but he gave
away too many free kicks and apart from one wonderful effort, he never
looked like scoring - which is his biggest problem that I doubt he will ever
overcome at this club.

Dean Ashton
Seemed to be carrying on his recent good form in the first half as he looked
clever in possession and was causing the Sunderland defence problems with
his movement and strength. Became isolated in the second half and wasted
possession far too many times.

Subs Used

John Pantsil (on for McCartney 45 mins)
Still better than Kaka but a concussion prevented us from seeing much
Pantsil magic.

Nolberto Solano (on for Cole 64 mins)
A few early touches developed into a player who was just chasing shadows for
most of his time on the pitch.

James Tomkins (on for Pantsil 74 mins)
One mistake nearly cost us a goal and then he managed to save us by clearing
a ball with a Sunderland attacker ready to pounce. The more experience he
gets the better he will get.

Overall

In a game which we really could have won, we were simply outfought by one of
those hard working, gritty, not much quality but lots of heart sides in
Sunderland.

Although league position is not really high on the agenda for the rest of
the season, hopefully we will bounce back against Portsmouth in our next
league game and get some more points on the board.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbishley blames the injuries, yet again - West Ham Online
North Bank - Sat Mar 29 2008

My only comment is that it has to be more than bad luck and if we're going
to carry the same squad next season, I'd like Curbishley to take a serious
look at the medical staff he employed and the way he prepares players for
the games.

Here's what he said after today's defeat at Sunderland:

"Funnily enough I think, once we scored, we lost the initiative,"

"I think we started brightly and looked purposeful and passed it quite well
and got our goal and then sort of sat off it a little bit and Sunderland
were eager all afternoon, put us under a bit of pressure and got back into
it really not too long after we scored.

"And the second half as the injuries were coming along and constant change,
obviously I'd have been delighted to have got out of it with a point."

While five minutes of injury time were announced at the end, Curbishley
bemoaned: "But I think they've scored in the 96th-and-a-half minute and
sometimes you win and sometimes you lose but I'm really disappointed with
how he's come up with 96-and-a-half minutes.

"But I think today probably sums up what has happened to us, the injuries.
17 fit men we had here today and we lose two or three and go down to 10 men
- it's been a long season."

Curbs said Carlton Cole took a knock in the first half and was limping
around, then John Pantsil had to be replaced and is concussed and then
Ljungberg had to come off injured.

"It would have been a battling point in the end and I think we'd have been
delighted with that but it's a cruel game sometimes.

"Sunderland in their position couldn't have wished for more - they've ended
up taking the three points - two big wins they've had now so they have got a
lot to play for.

"We have got to regroup, we have got a bit of a break and then they come
thick and fast again but I can't tell you who I've got fit and available for
the next game."

Asked what the objective is, he said: "To finish as high as we can.
Unfortunately quite a lot of those players who have been playing today have
been playing all season and have not been able to get a break because of the
injury situation and it has just got worse there.

"So I am hoping one or two people will come back over the next ten days and
give us a bit of a lift and give me a problem for team selection."

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Andy Reid delivers blow to West Ham - Telegraph
By Jonathan Wilson at the Stadium of Light
Last Updated: 10:50pm GMT 29/03/2008
Sunderland (1) 2 West Ham (1) 1

As Andy Reid volleyed the winner deep into added time, one figure's glee
stood out. As the rest of the Sunderland bench celebrated, Daryl Murphy
stood in a private rapture, fists clenched, eyes closed: this was a man
reprieved. Nine minutes from time, he had perpetrated the sort of miss than
can haunt a career.

Eight yards out, unmarked as Kenwyne Jones rolled the ball across the box,
he had smashed his shot high over the bar. The firmness of manager Roy
Keane's handshake as Murphy was substituted told its own story: there was
sympathy there, an acknowledgement that, if Sunderland went down, this was a
man who was likely to shoulder the blame.

As it is, thanks to a weak Anton Ferdinand header, Reid's technical
excellence in front of goal - and Arsenal's late winner at Bolton - this
will be remembered as the day Sunderland won consecutive top-flight games
for the first time in 7½ years and pulled seven points clear of the
relegation zone. "I don't mind strikers missing chances," Keane said,
"because you've got to be in the position to miss them. I've seen great
strikers miss chances, and Daryl had run his socks off." What he does mind
is players "stepping off", as Sunderland had for the opening quarter. "We
were appalling," he said. "I could have got my boots on and played against
us today. The players were reminded of the position we're in at half-time,
and they reacted well to my strong words."

Dean Ashton had already hit a post when West Ham took an 18th-minute lead.
While the deflection Freddie Ljungberg's drive took off Nyron Nosworthy was
unfortunate, any sympathy was mitigated by the shambolic defending that
allowed the Swede so much time to line up his shot. Even after Jones had
equalised, following a superb passing move orchestrated by Reid, it took a
fingertip save from Craig Gordon to keep out a Carlton Cole curler.

The second half could hardly have been more different. Alan Curbishley
blamed his side's capitulation on fatigue and "a chronic injury list" - to
which were added yesterday Ljungberg and George McCartney with hamstring
strains, John Paintsil with concussion and Cole with a foot injury - but,
equally, Sunderland were far crisper in the pass and sharper on the tackle.
They struggled to create chances, but under Keane Sunderland have a habit of
scoring late goals and, as the five minutes of added time stretched to six,
there was still, as Keane said, always the thought there would be "one more
chance". Reid's calm finish took to 11 - out of 33 - the total points they
have accumulated this season with goals in the last 10 minutes of games.

Reid has been excellent since joining from Charlton in January, and he does
not run out of steam after 70 minutes as he did two months ago. "He just
about made 96 minutes today," Keane said. "He wasn't flying, though - don't
kid yourself." He was, though, fit enough to spare Murphy's blushes.

Best moment: Jonny Evans's perfectly timed tackle on Dean Ashton midway
through the first half: it could have been Bobby Moore on Pele

Worst moment: Scott Parker's ludicrous dive – with supplementary handball –
over Nyron Nosworthy's foot. The crusade against simulation has seemingly
run out of steam.


Man of the match

Andy Reid (Sunderland)
Five shots
One goal
One assist

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Curbishley pleased to give Tomkins more West Ham action
tribalfootball.com - March 30, 2008

West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley was happy to give more minutes to James
Tomkins in their defeat to Sunderland. Tomkins celebrated his 19th birthday
at the Stadium of Light and the manager was pleased with his contribution
off the bench, claiming "we know we've got a player there". He also told
whufc.com: "I'm in a fortunate position where they can learn without it
being so vital. Freddie Sears, if he hadn't been injured, might have got a
game as well so we'll have a look at that in the next six games."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Ferdinand wins Curbishley praise
tribalfooball.com - March 30, 2008

West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley had praise for Anton Ferdinand after
defeat to Sunderland.

Curbishley is pleased with the way Ferdinand has handled being the team's
senior centre-half amid a spate of defensive injuries and said: "I think
Anton has done great, to be honest.

"We started off with [Jonathan] Spector there, then [James] Tomkins has had
to come on and Specs has gone to left-back then right-back. It's been very
difficult for us.

"We'll have to see if Upson will be right for Portsmouth [on Tuesday week].
We don't want to put anyone at risk so we'll just have to see what we've got
... Obviously I was a bit disappointed that a lot of my players went off
this week [on international duty]. A lot of them have been playing week in,
week out and I've not been in a position to rest anybody and it looks as if
it'll be that way for the rest of the season."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham go for Ipswich's Haynes
tribalfootball.com - March 30, 2008

West Ham United are chasing Ipswich attacker Danny Haynes. Haynes is a £2m
target for West Ham and Birmingham as he looks to step up.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Friday, March 28

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - II 28th March 2008

Sunderland match preview - WHUFC
All the early team news and background for Saturday's trip to the Stadium of
Light
27.03.2008

Barclays Premier League
Stadium of Light
Saturday 29 March
5.15pm
Referee: Andre Marriner

WHUTV - Pre-match press conference, plus live commentary to come
WESTHAM.WAP.COM - All the news, on the move

Introduction

* West Ham United, tenth in the Barclays Premier League, go to Sunderland
with the chance to move to within three points of sixth place depending on
results. The home side are in 16th place, four points above the relegation
zone.

* Alan Curbishley's men were in good form away from home last Saturday,
earning a 1-1 draw at high-flying Everton and could nearly have snatched
victory but for a late Freddie Sears' effort that struck the post. The club
are still five points ahead of Tottenham Hotspur in eleventh.

* West Ham United have a good recent record at the Stadium of Light, with
two wins and a draw in their last four visits.

* West Ham United's last success at Sunderland was on 4 December 2004 in the
Championship when second-half goals from Marlon Harewood (54) and Teddy
Sheringham (90) secured victory. Anton Ferdinand and Matthew Etherington,
the club's longest serving first-teamers, both started the 2-0 win while
Bobby Zamora was a late substitute.

Last match

Everton 1-1 West Ham United (22 March): Green, Neill, Ferdinand, Tomkins,
McCartney, Ljungberg (Solano 80), Parker (Spector 82), Mullins, Noble, Boa
Morte (Sears 50), Ashton
Subs not used: Walker, Cole
Goals: Yakubu 8, Ashton 68

Aston Villa 0-1 Sunderland (22 March): Gordon, Bardsley, Evans, Nosworthy,
Collins, Edwards (Leadbitter 67), Whitehead, Richardson, Reid, O'Donovan
(Chopra 59), Murphy (Yorke 87)
Subs not used: Fulop, Prica.
Goal: Chopra 83

Team news

* Bobby Zamora may be in line to return after missing the last two fixtures
with badly blistered feet. Fellow forward Freddie Sears has been struggling
with a groin injury he felt after coming on as a substitute against Everton
and a late decision will be made about his potential involvement against
Sunderland. Carlton Cole should also be available, having been an unused
substitute at Goodison Park.

* Matthew Upson, who had to withdraw from the England squad that faced
France on Wednesday, is not certain of returning after missing out on the
last three fixtures with a calf injury suffered at Liverpool on 5 March.

* James Tomkins deputised at Everton, getting the full 90 minutes on his
first-team debut. Tomkins, who turns 19 with the trip to Sunderland, then
continued his week to remember with two goals for England U19s in a 3-1 win
friendly win against Russia on Tuesday night in Milton Keynes.

* Jonathan Spector had replaced for Upson in the two previous games but was
a late substitute at Everton. Having just helped the US Under-23s to qualify
for the Olympics before the Goodison Park game, he came off the bench for
his country's senior side on Wednesday in their 3-0 friendly win in Poland.

* George McCartney was with Northern Ireland for their home game against
Georgia but missed out on the game as his partner was due to give birth.

* Lucas Neill played the full 90 minutes as Australia made it four points
from two 2010 World Cup qualifiers by earning a 0-0 draw against China in
Kunming.

* John Pantsil, watched by Alan Curbishley, played the full game as Ghana
lost 2-1 to Mexico at Fulham's Craven Cottage.

* Freddie Ljungberg played for an hour as he captained Sweden in a 1-0
friendly defeat by Brazil played at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium.

* While Sears got his second substitute run-out in as many games against
Everton, Jack Collison is also in the manager's thoughts for Sunderland.

* Sears missed out on England U19 duty on Tuesday with that groin injury, a
game that also featured a substitute appearance for 18-year-old midfielder
Junior Stanislas. Collison played for Wales U21s on Wednesday as they won
2-1 in a European Championship qualifier away to Bosnia-Herzegovina.

* Jimmy Walker will again replace Richard Wright as substitute goalkeeper
after his loan to Southampton. Wright kept a clean sheet on his Saints debut
against Coventry City last weekend.

* For Sunderland, Carlos Edwards and Kenwyne Jones are both free to play
despite earlier claims that Trinidad and Tobago would enforce a FIFA rule to
stop them turning out after they missed out on the midweek friendly with
Jamaica. Both men have been suffering of late, Edwards with a groin problem
and Jones from flu. There are also concerns about Danny Collins (dead leg)
and Nyron Nosworthy (ankle)

Background

* After 31 games last season, West Ham United were five points from safety
and had just 26 points compared to the 44 they have achieved from the same
number of matches this campaign.

* West Ham United and Sunderland last met on 21 October 2007 at the Boleyn
Ground. Cole put the home side in front on nine minutes before Jones
equalised seven minutes after the interval. The introduction of Nolberto
Solano helped change the game and five minutes after coming on, he had
forced a 78th-minute own goal by Craig Gordon. Bellamy wrapped up the win in
added time.

The lineups were:

West Ham United: Green, Neill (c), Gabbidon, Upson, McCartney, Bowyer, Noble
(Solano 73), Mullins, Etherington (Boa Morte 74), Cole (Ferdinand 84),
Bellamy
Subs not used: Wright, Camara

Sunderland: Gordon, Halford, Nosworthy, Higginbotham, Collins (Harte 80),
O'Donovan (Chopra 46), Leadbitter, Miller, Etuhu, Wallace (Stokes 46), Jones
Subs not used: Ward, Connolly

* United's last trip to the Stadium of Late came on 1 October 2005. Tommy
Miller put the home side in front on the stroke of half-time but Yossi
Benayoun equalised in the 72nd minute.

* The Hammers have still not lost in all 14 league games this season when
they have taken the lead.

* Since the 1-0 win at Fulham on 23 February, West Ham United have conceded
first in each of the following five fixtures. In all of the games, the
opening goal came inside the first 20 minutes.

* Robert Green has kept eight clean sheets in 31 league games.

* George McCartney is bidding to make his 38th appearance this season in all
competitions. He has not missed a match since sitting out the 4-3 home
defeat by Tottenham Hotspur on 4 March 2007 - an unbroken run of 46 games.

* Jonathan Spector is a former team-mate of Sunderland manager Roy Keane,
having played for Manchester United betwen May 2004 and June 2006.

* McCartney is the only West Ham United player who has featured in every
league and cup game to date, starting in each one.

* McCartney spent eight years at Sunderland before joining West Ham United
in August 2006. He made 157 league and cup appearances for the club although
never scored.

* In terms of the Premier League, only Green has played every minute of the
31 matches.

* Carlton Cole is two cautions away from a ban after picking up eight yellow
cards. The 'one-match ban for five cautions' rule was for all yellow cards
up to the end of February. However, a player receiving ten cautions before
the end of the second Sunday in April will be suspended for two matches,
starting seven days after the tenth offence.

* No Sunderland player has played in every Barclays Premier League game this
season. The club have used 31 players this season - 30 in the top-flight -
compared to West Ham United's 29 overall and 28 in the league.

* Ashton, with eight goals, seven in the league, is the club's leading
scorer. Jones, with 5 in the top-flight alone, is Sunderland's leading
top-flight marksman.

* Hayden Mullins turned 29 on Thursday.

* West Ham United will next be in action on Tuesday 8 April when they
welcome FA Cup semi-finalists Portsmouth. Sunderland are back in London to
face Fulham on Saturday 5 April.

* David Connolly could feature against the club where he scored 14 goals in
48 appearances during the 2003/04 season.

Head to head (Last six Barclays Premier League meetings)

21 October 2007 - West Ham United 3-1 Sunderland
4 February 2006 - West Ham United 2-0 Sunderland
1 October 2005 - Sunderland 1-1 West Ham United
29 April 2005 - West Ham United 1-2 Sunderland
4 December 2004 - Sunderland 0-2 West Ham United
13 March 2004 - Sunderland 2-0 West Ham United

All-time record v Sunderland (all competitions) - W 28, D 19 L 27

Barclays Premier League fixtures (kick-off 3pm unless stated)

Saturday 29 March

Birmingham City v Manchester City
Bolton Wanderers v Arsenal
Derby County v Fulham
Manchester United v Aston Villa (5.15pm)
Portsmouth v Wigan Athletic
Reading v Blackburn Rovers

Sunday 30 March

Chelsea v Middlesbrough (1.30pm)
Liverpool v Everton (4pm)
Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United (3pm)

General information

Tickets: For latest information, click here. For details of getting to the
Stadium of Light, click here

Weather: The forecast is for rain. The temperature is set to peak at around
12C.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Captain's Blog - Plenty of positives - WHUFC
Lucas Neill gives you the latest from the camp as the squad heads north to
the Stadium of Light
28.03.2008

A trio of first-team regulars - namely Dean Ashton, Mark Noble and Scott
Parker - have been singled out after the 1-1 draw at Everton while there are
also good words for James Tomkins, Jack Collison and Freddie Sears ahead of
the Sunderland trip.

Before last week, most teams would have taken a draw against a strong
Everton team with good home form. However, after the game was finished we
felt a little disappointed that we hadn't come away with a victory after
creating more chances than Everton and finishing the game the more dominant
team.

On the whole I thought the team performed very well and in particular Deano,
Nobes and Scotty and, for his first game, James Tomkins looked like he had
been playing in central defence for a lot longer. The game seemed to come
easy to him and he showed maturity beyond his years to get over his initial
nerves and come into his own. Yet again we had another inspiring cameo
performance from young Freddie who was unlucky not to have scored another
winner when he was one-on-one and his effort came back off the post in the
dying seconds of the game.

It is great to have Tomka, Jack and Freddie pushing the rest of the squad.
It was a shame that Freddie picked up a slight knock at the end of the
Everton game so he could not continue his run in the team but we will
hopefully have him back for the crucial six-pointer against Portsmouth. It's
only a matter of time before Jack is given his opportunity again although he
might have to be patient with the competition we currently have for
midfield. A special mention must go to Tomka for his brace for England U19s
in the week. No doubt his debut at Goodison filled him with confidence to go
and play well for the national team which topped off a fantastic week for
him.

This weekend's fixture will be another tough away battle playing against a
Sunderland team who are battling for their Premier League status. Like the
recent game against Fulham, sometimes you just have to scrap out the match
and wait for your chances but after our performance away to Everton we will
be going there in a buoyant mood. The Sunderland manager is someone I have a
lot of respect for as a player and a manager and I have no doubt he will
have his team fired up and determined to get a home victory and three vital
points. But we are just as determined and confident that if we defend well
and put them on the back foot early we will come away with the spoils.

I still believe that sixth place is achievable and if had we won last week
we would have only been three points off it but we still have to play some
of the teams above us, ie Portsmouth and Aston Villa both at home. On paper
all our other games are also winnable and don't overawe us and I include
Manchester United away in that as we seem to be their bogey team of late.

I thank you for your continued support and especially those who made the
trip to Everton last Easter weekend and are making the long trip again to
Sunderland this weekend. We appreciate the many miles you travel to support
us week in and week out and know the best way to thank you is to send you
home with three points.

Lucas Neill

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Back to club business - WHUFC
Alan Curbishley has those on midweek international duty back in the fold for
Saturday's away trip
28.03.2008

West Ham United travel to Sunderland on Sunday looking for a second strong
away display in a week after the 1-1 draw at Everton.

The Stadium of Light has been a happy hunting ground for United in recent
years with two wins and a draw from the last four visits while Nolberto
Solano inspired a 3-1 success in the previous meeting at the Boleyn Ground
last October. However, it is not certain that Bobby Zamora or Freddie Sears
will make it with the 18-year-old striker having missed out on England U19
duty in midweek. West Ham United manager Alan Curbishley said: "He is
struggling a little bit. He felt his groin soon after going on at Everton
and played on with it.

"He didn't say anything until afterwards so we have just kept him off it. We
will make a decision. He hasn't trained all this week so we will have to
see." Curbishley added that the knock could explain why Sears hit the post
late on in the game at Goodison Park last Saturday. "If he was feeling his
groin a little bit, then perhaps that's the reason he didn't get away
completely and give himself a bit more time to hit it with the inside of his
foot."

There were positive reports for those on senior international duty including
Freddie Ljungberg who played an hour for Sweden against Brazil, Jonathan
Spector with the United States in Poland and Lucas Neill who went to China
with Australia. "[Ljungberg] come off because it was a planned thing, there
is nothing sinister about it ... All the players have come through the
internationals. Lucas got through it all right. George McCartney didn't play
[for Northern Ireland] because his partner went into labour."

The manager revealed he spent Wednesday night watching John Pantsil play for
Ghana against Mexico, having heard positive reports from the previous
evening when James Tomkins scored twice for England U19s in a 3-1 win
against Russia. After his debut at Everton, the defender could celebrate his
19th birthday by retaining his place in the side this weekend as Matthew
Upson is not certain to return alongside Anton Ferdinand.

With regard to the defensive situation alone, Curbishley believed events
this season have underlined the strength in depth. "The squad has become
stronger because there are players who thought they would be under threat
from the new signings who have played a lot of football. Now we know we can
compete in the Premiership so when the others come back we will be stronger.
[Danny] Gabbidon, [James] Collins and Upson are missing. Add them to the
squad and you can see the strength."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Green knows what it takes - WHUFC
As West Ham United push for a high league finish, Rob Green is aware of what
is needed in order to move up
28.03.2008

West Ham United head to Sunderland on Saturday looking to keep the pressure
on the teams just above and Robert Green is well aware of what it will take
to compete with the very best.

The club have every chance of a strong finish especially as the sides
currently in sixth and seventh - Portsmouth and Aston Villa - both still
have to come to the Boleyn Ground before the end of the season. A victory
this weekend at the Stadium of Light could potentially move United to within
three points of Portsmouth but the ultimate aim for all is to find a way of
challenging the elite as well.

"You look at it and say they are very good at what they do," Green said.
"They have a game plan and it's very hard to stop it. We have our own game
plan and if everyone's on song then it's fantastic to watch and really good
to play in but it does require a lot of players to be playing well. It's
that consistency that we're looking for to make a difference."

The England goalkeeper played a key role last week at Everton although much
of the second half saw Alan Curbishley's side pushing hard for victory. The
blossoming partnership of Dean Ashton and Freddie Sears, along with the
recent re-introduction of Bobby Zamora to complement Carlton Cole, has
raised hopes the club has the attacking options to match the undoubted
defensive solidity shown this season by Green and the back four.

Green was impressed with the way Ashton coped last week against a resolute
rearguard. "It's a difficult role playing up front on your own," he said.
"There are so many miles to cover and it can be a thankless task really. He
was our main threat throughout the game and then, when Freddie did come on,
he was relishing the chance to lay the balls of for him and, with Freddie,
cause havoc. They did that ... [they were] the width of the post away from
giving us an impressive win."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sunderland v West Ham - BBC

Satdium of Light
Saturday, 29 March
Kick-off: 1500 GMT
Coverage on the BBC Sport website, BBC Radio Five Live & highlights on Match
of the Day

Sunderland striker Kenwyne Jones could return after recovering from a virus
although international team-mate Carlos Edwards (groin) is rated at only
50-50.

Danny Collins (dead leg) and Nyron Nosworthy (groin) are expected to retain
their places in the squad, but Dickson Etuhu (knee) will be missing.

West Ham striker Freddie Sears (groin) is struggling to be fit but Bobby
Zamora is expected to return.

Central defender Matthew Upson (calf) is doubtful with a calf injury.

Sunderlandl squad: Gordon, Fulop, Bardsley, Collins, McShane, Evans,
Higginbotham, Harte, Whitehead, Reid, Leadbitter, Edwards, Miller,
Richardson, O'Donovan, Jones, Waghorn, Murphy, Stokes, Chopra, Prica.

West Ham squad: Green, Walker, Neill, Ferdinand, Upson, Tomkins, Spector,
McCartney, Pantsil, Solano, Parker, Mullins, Noble, Collison, Ljungberg, Boa
Morte, Ashton, Zamora, Cole, Sears.


BIG-MATCH FACTS
Sunderland enter this match two places and four points above the drop zone;
West Ham are comfortably on course for a seventh top-half finish from their
13th Premier League campaign.

Demotion for the Wearsiders will see them equalling Leicester's record of
five relegations from the top-flight of English league football after
gaining promotion in the previous season. It would also be Sunderland's
third immediate drop from the Premier League.

The Black Cats have lost their last three league fixtures against London
clubs; the Hammers are looking for a third straight victory over North-East
clubs.

West Ham are hoping to complete their fourth double of the season;
Sunderland are in danger of being doubled for the sixth time this term.

Roy Keane's side have twice as many points as they accrued for the whole of
their last Premier League campaign (30 now, 15 then); West Ham could suffer
their 200th defeat all-time in this league.

West Ham are chasing a third successive Premier League victory over
Sunderland, but they haven't won in this league at the Stadium of Light
since prevailing 0-1 on 19 October 2002, with the aid of a Trevor Sinclair
goal.


CLUB FORM
SUNDERLAND


Club stats
Fixtures
Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 13th
Lowest could fall: 17th

All statistics and sequences refer to the Premier League only, unless
otherwise stated.

1. One win and one goal in five.

2. Scored 27 goals at one every 133 minutes (two hours 13 minutes) on
average; only Derby have an inferior attack (14 goals scored).

3. 74% of their goals have come from open play (20 of 27).

4. Won only one of seven against London opposition this season; the victory
being 1-0 against Tottenham on the seasonal opener on 11 August.

5. Lost the last two home games by 0-1 margins, after winning the previous
four at the Stadium of Light.

6. Gained 18 more points at home than away (24 out of 30). It is the widest
such disparity in this league.

7. The run-in is:-

Fulham (a)
Manchester City (h)
Newcastle (a)
Middlesbrough (h)
Bolton (a)
Arsenal (h)

WEST HAM UNITED


Club stats
Fixtures
Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 10th
Lowest could fall: 10th

All statistics and sequences refer to the Premier League only, unless
otherwise stated.

1. One win in five.

2. Conceded 14 goals in their five matches in March so far.

3. The current tally of 44 points is 18 more than were accumulated after 31
games last season; and already bagged three more points than in total for
the whole of last season.

4. Yet to lose having taken the lead. Won eight, and drawn five of 13 in
which they opened the scoring.

5. Only two of their 34 goals have come direct from outside the penalty
area.

6. Their 31 games have produced just 71 goals (34 for, 37 against). At 2.29,
it is the second lowest goals per game return, just behind Manchester City
(2.26).

7. One win from seven away (0-1, against Fulham on 23 February); and just
one point from the last nine available on the road.

8. Scored a total of three goals in seven on the road.

9. Chasing a seventh away maximum of the campaign.

10. The run-in is:-

Portsmouth (h)
Bolton (a)
Derby (h)
Newcastle (h)
Manchester United (a)
Aston Villa (h)


KEY PLAYER NOTES
SUNDERLAND


Kenwyne JONES is Sunderland's top scorer with five Premier League goals.

Michael CHOPRA is one shy of 50 career league goals (Newcastle, Watford,
Barnsley, Cardiff and Sunderland).

Last season's top scorer David CONNOLLY needs one goal to total 100 in his
league career (Watford, Wolves, Wimbledon, West Ham, Leicester, Wigan and
Sunderland).

If selected:-

CONNOLLY will be facing a former club. The 30 year old Republic of Ireland
international made 48 appearances (39 in the league) and scored 14 goals (10
league) in one season with West Ham (2003-04).

WEST HAM UNITED


Dean ASHTON is West Ham's top scorer with eight goals.

ASHTON is also the Hammers' top Premier League marksmen with seven.

The club's Premier League goalscorers list is predominately comprised of
English players (nine of 13).

Robert GREEN is the only remaining player to have been on the field for
every minute of every one of West Ham's Premier League matches this season.

Lee BOWYER is a double shy of 50 career Premier League goals (Leeds,
Newcastle and West Ham).

Nol SOLANO needs a double to total 50 Premier League goals (Newcastle, Aston
Villa and West Ham).

Fredrik LJUNGBERG is three shy of 50 Premier League goals (Arsenal and West
Ham).

If selected:-

George McCARTNEY will be facing a former club. The 26 year old Northern
Ireland international defender started his career with Sunderland, making
157 appearances (134 in the league) in eight years on Wearside from August
1998.

James COLLINS will be making his 100th career league appearance (Cardiff and
West Ham).

James TOMKINS will be playing on his 19th birthday.


HEAD TO HEAD
West Ham's last win at the Stadium of Light five seasons ago formed the
foundation for their only Premier League double over Sunderland.

Half of the six home meetings between Sunderland and West Ham have ended all
square.

Home and away
League (inc PL): Sunderland 25 wins, West Ham 23, Draws 17
Prem: Sunderland 3 wins, West Ham 6, Draws 4

at Sunderland only
League (inc PL): Sunderland 17 wins, West Ham 9, Draws 6
Prem: Sunderland 2 wins, West Ham 1, Draws 3


THIS SEASON'S REVERSE FIXTURE
West Ham United 3-1 Sunderland
21 December 2007 - Ref: Chris Foy
West Ham scorers: Cole 9, Gordon 78 og, Bellamy 90
Sunderland scorer: Jones 52


REFEREE
Andre Marriner (West Midlands)

Premier League referees' table
Andre Marriner's 2007-08 Premier League card count

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ashton is solution to Fabio's striker shortage, insists West Ham boss Curbs
- Daily Mail
Last updated at 10:07am on 28th March 2008

Alan Curbishley has told England boss Fabio Capello that Dean Ashton can be
the answer to his problem position in attack. The 24-year old has returned
to form with two goals in West Ham's last two matches against Blackburn and
Everton, and his style of play is ideally suited to operating as the lone
forward in Capello's 4-2-3-1 formation. With the national team lacking bite
up front, Hammers manager Curbishley believes Ashton has the perfect
opportunity to establish himself in planned friendlies against the USA in
May, and Trinidad & Tobago in June. He said: "The friendlies this summer are
a target for our English players who think they have a chance. "The task for
them is to finish the season as strongly as they can, because I know England
staff are watching our games and sending in their reports. "In the last
three matches, Dean has looked really strong, and he has seemed a lot
sharper. It is nice when the goals start going in, as well. "If Dean plays
every game between now and the end of the season, he can look back at the
campaign and think that he has done very well, given the knee problems he
had. "He has played quite a bit of football, nicked a few goals and got
himself back in the groove. Now, he can push on, and he needs to pick up
from where he left off at Everton. "Capello is looking at the England
players, and trying to work out what he has got. I am sure he is looking
forward to having more time with the players. "As we failed to qualify for
Euro 2008, Capello will get that time in the summer."
Curbishley is expected to maintain his policy of introducing West Ham's
promising youngsters in tomorrow's Premier League match at Sunderland.
Striker Freddie Sears could join Ashton up front if he shakes off a groin
injury, while defender James Tomkins and midfielder Jack Collison could also
be involved.
Curbishley added: "We have seen that both Freddie and James can handle it,
and the Freddie had been playing really well in training."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Jones hopes to fire Black Cats to safety - Setanta
by Craig Kemp, 28 March 2008

Sunderland have received a massive boost with the news that top-scorer
Kenwyne Jones is available for Saturday's visit of West Ham to The Stadium
of Light. Jones missed last week's 1-0 victory at Aston Villa, their first
away win of the season, with a virus and now Roy Keane has the dilemma of
whether to reinstate the five-goal hitman or stick with Daryl Murphy, Roy
O'Donovan or last week's goalscorer Michael Chopra. The Black Cats are four
points away from the drop zone and this is mainly a result of their useful
home form, which has seen them collect 24 of their 30 point total. Despite
losing their last two home fixtures 1-0, against Chelsea and Everton, the
omens are good for Roy Keane's charge as West Ham have only won one of their
last seven away from Upton Park. However in recent times West Ham have a
good record against Sunderland, they are unbeaten and have only conceded two
in their last six mettings. Also The Hammers have a knack of striking late,
as four of their last five league goals against Sunderland have come in the
last 12 minutes of games. League stats favour the home side as Sunderland
have only conceded 15 goals at home this season while West Ham have let in
20 in 2008, a record only beaten by Newcastle. Jones grabbed Sunderland's
goal in the 3-1 defeat in the reverse fixture this season and is a sound
first goalscorer bet at 5-1. But a 1-1 draw is a likely outcome so a bet on
the double is a probable 22-1 chance. Prediction: 1-1

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins set to keep his Hammers place
By Guardian-series

JAMES Tomkins looks set to keep his place in the West Ham starting line up
for the trip to Sunderland tomorrow. The defender - who turns 19 on the day
of the game - showed his promising potential with an assured debut against
Everton last weekend. And, with Matthew Upson still struggling to overcome a
calf problem, the youngster (pictured) looks set to retain his place at the
heart of the Hammers defence against the Black Cats. However, 18-year-old
striker Freddie Sears is likely to miss out with a groin problem, although
fellow forward Bobby Zamora is expected to return from a knee injury. The
eight Hammers stars who were in international action in midweek have also
come through unscathed. The Irons will go into the match looking to continue
with their recent good form at the Stadium of Light - they've won two and
drawn one of their last four visits.

West Ham: (from) Green, Walker, Neill, Spector, Pantsil, McCartney,
Ferdinand, Tomkins, Mullins, Noble, Parker, Solano, Boa Morte, Collison,
Ljungberg, Ashton, Cole, Zamora.

11:43am today

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Paintsil For Aston Villa? - GhanaWeb

English side Aston Villa is interested in West Ham United fullback John
Paintsil. The Mirror newspaper says Villa boss Martin O'Neill is weighing up
a move for the Ghana international. Paintsil has struggled for first team
place since the arrival of manager Alan Curbishley. The prospect of him
gaining a starting place has been made even remote because he has failed to
get a starting place even though there are several injuries in the squad.
Despite this setback Paintsil says his struggling English side will bounce
back next season. "We've had a fresh start this season. I think West Ham
will be the team to watch out for next season," Paintsil said. "Motivation
is not a problem. We've got a lot of injuries in the team and we've lost a
lot of experienced players as well, but those who are playing are showing a
lot of character on the pitch." French side Auxerre are also interested in
the defender.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has dilemma over young stars - The Mirror
By Darren Lewis 28/03/2008

Alan Curbishley is treading carefully between giving more chances to West
Ham's young guns to ensure the club do not finish below archrivals
Tottenham.
Teenage striker Freddie Sears, defender James Tomkins and England Under-21
midfielder Mark Noble have brought the feel-good factor back to Upton Park
during an uninspiring campaign from the club's more established stars.
Hammers fans would take a bottom-half finish if it means they get to see
more of the local kids that have excited them. But Curbishley, an East End
boy himself, insists supporters do not want to end up below the old enemy.
He said: "It depends on whether Spurs are likely to finish above us. The
fans won't be too happy about that. We'll have to see. "It's the bigger
picture I must look at. I have no doubts about putting the youngsters in and
if the situation arises I'll do it. I wasn't afraid to do that when I was at
Charlton and I won't be afraid to do it here."
Although Curbishley signed Craig Bellamy, Freddie Ljungberg, Keiron Dyer and
Julien Faubert last summer on big money, it is Sears, a scorer on his debut
against Blackburn two weeks ago, who gets the fans buzzing.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 28th March 2008

Homegrown hold the key - WHUFC
Alan Curbishley has seen plenty of positives with the form shown by his
promising young Academy graduates
27.03.2008

James Tomkins turns 19 with Saturday's trip to Sunderland and is ready to
complete a major week in his football life with another run-out for West Ham
United.

The homegrown defender made his first-team debut in the 1-1 draw at Everton
last weekend as the club finished with four homegrown players on the pitch
in the form of Anton Ferdinand, Mark Noble and Freddie Sears. It was a
development that manager Alan Curbishley said has "given everybody a lift".
Tomkins then followed that up with two goals for England Under-19s in a 3-1
midweek victory against Russia and there is every chance he could keep his
West Ham United place for the forthcoming trip to the Stadium of Light.

As a player, Curbishley also came through the ranks along with assistant
Mervyn Day and reserve-team coach Kevin Keen and there is an understanding
within the coaching staff of what the Academy means to supporters. The
manager said: "The biggest selling shirt at the club is Mark Noble and,
after signing the four or five big hitters in the summer, it tells you that
the West Ham fans have an affinity to homegrown players. On Saturday, we
ended up with four in the eleven that finished which was nice for
everybody."

Curbishley revealed Tomkins had a "little inkling" that he would play at
Goodison Park and that "he had no nerves at all". The manager added: "We
never told Tomkins until an hour and a quarter before the game he was
playing on Saturday. I didn't want him to be thinking about it too much.
What pleased me most about it was he had a little bit of a shaky start with
the goal but got stronger as the game went on."

When the final whistle blew at Goodison Park last Saturday, West Ham United
had six players on the pitch that were aged 24 or under and Curbishley is
clear that across the board "if they are good enough they are going to get a
game". Although the search for young players extends far and wide, he
recognises there is something extra with Tomkins and Sears and how they
connect with those watching on in the stands. "They are genuine West Ham
fans and the club is what they are about ... you know they want to do well
and they lap every minute up."

With the likes of Jack Collison, Junior Stanislas and Kyel Reid, who has
just been loaned to Championship promotion hopefuls Crystal Palace, waiting
in the wings, there would look to be plenty of others ready to stake a
claim. The manager added: "West Ham have always had a sprinkling of
homegrown talent. There has perhaps been a lull in recent years and
hopefully we are on our way back because it is vitally important for
everybody."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid and Hines loaned out - WHUFC
Homegrown talents Kyel Reid and Zavon Hines have left the Boleyn Ground to
join two Championship clubs
27.03.2008

West Ham United have agreed to let Kyel Reid and Zavon Hines join
Championship clubs Crystal Palace and Coventry City respectively on
month-long loan deals.

The 20-year-old Reid has made four substitute appearances this season for
the first team. The left winger, who signed a new deal with West Ham United
last November, had a previous loan spell at Barnsley during the 2006/07
campaign, when he played 26 times. Palace, who also acquired Chelsea talent
Scott Sinclair on loan today, are one point outside the play-off positions
as they push for promotion to the top flight.

Coventry have different concerns, as they sit just one point above the drop
zone and hope that Hines, who will link up with former West Ham United
defender Elliott Ward, will help them avert the threat of League One
football next season. The quick 19-year-old forward has yet to make his
senior bow but has impressed of late - not least in a lively display off the
bench for the reserves against Fulham on 20 February when his late goal
sealed a 2-0 win.

The deals bring the number of West Ham United players currently out on loan
to five. Goalkeepers David Blackmore, on a season-long deal, and Richard
Wright are at Thurrock and Southampton respectively. The other player out at
the moment is 19-year-old striker Jeffery who has played six games for
Cambridge United as they battle for promotion to the Football League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Extra seats for Portsmouth - WHUFC
The visitors on 8 April have returned a number of tickets for the Centenary
Stand lower tier
27.03.2008

The ticket office can confirm that Portsmouth have returned a number of
tickets for the Barclays Premier League fixture on Tuesday 8 April meaning
these can be sold to home fans instead.

Only a limited number of seats were left before now but this development
means any supporters still wanting to attend can purchase these tickets for
the Centenary Stand lower tier. The evening match, which gets under way at
7.45pm, is the last to be played under the lights at the Boleyn Ground
before the end of the season and promises to be an intriguing contest
between two teams targeting a strong finish.

For more information, please contact the ticket office on 0870 112 2700 via
option 1 or click here for online bookings.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A spiritual night at West Ham United - WHUFC
Leading clairvoyant Diane White will be at the Boleyn Ground for a special
evening event next month
27.03.2008

West Ham United are hosting an evening of clairvoyance on Wednesday 23
April.

Diane White, said to be fast becoming one of the country's best mediums,
will be in attendance in the Premier Suite from 7pm to 11pm. Tickets cost
£15 and are available from the Corporate Sales office. However, Diane's
shows traditionally tend to sell out fast so anyone interested is urged to
book now to avoid disappointment.

For more information or to register your place, call 020 8548 2777

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Coventry sign Hines as trio leave - BBC

Coventry have signed West Ham striker Zavon Hines on loan until the end of
the season after three players left the Ricoh Arena on transfer deadline
day.
The pacy 19-year-old has yet to make his debut for the Hammers' first team.
His switch came after Colin Hawkins, Wayne Andrews and youngster Donovan
Simmonds all moved out on loan. Andrews and Hawkins, who are leaving City
this summer, have joined Bristol Rovers and Chesterfield respectively, while
Simmonds has joined Gillingham.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Palace bring in two more - SSN
Reid and Ashton follow Sinclair to Selhurst Park
Last updated: 27th March 2008

Crystal Palace have dipped into the loan market again to sign Premier League
duo Kyel Reid and Nathan Ashton. Eagles boss Neil Warnock agreed a deal for
Chelsea youngster Scott Sinclair earlier on Thursday and has now secured the
services of Reid and Ashton until the end of the season. Promising winger
Reid arrives at Selhurst Park from West Ham United as he looks to build up
his experience. Reid has made four appearances for the Hammers this term and
spent the last campaign on loan at Barnsley. Young full-back Ashton joins
Palace on loan from Fulham, having made his debut for the Premier League
strugglers against Reading back in November. Along with Sinclair and Reid,
Ashton could feature for Palace in Saturday's Championship fixture at home
to Blackpool. Meanwhile, Fulham have allowed young striker Ismael Ehui to
join non-league Carshalton on a month's loan.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hines in for Sky Blues - SSN
Hammers striker links up with Championship strugglers
Last updated: 27th March 2008

Coventry City have boosted their attack with the signing of West Ham United
teenager Zavon Hines. The Championship strugglers had been looking to add a
striker to the squad before the loan deadline and had been linked with
Wolves' Freddy Eastwood. But Sky Blues manager Chris Coleman has been able
to clinch a deal to bring in Hines until the end of the season. Hines has
yet to make a first-team appearance for the Hammers and underwent a trial at
League Two club Bury earlier this term. He was watched by Coleman last week
in the reserves and could feature for Coventry in Saturday's game against
Plymouth Argyle at the Ricoh Arena.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs welcomes youthful 'lift' - SSN
West Ham boss praises impact of Sears and Tomkins
By Peter Fraser Last updated: 27th March 2008

West Ham manager Alan Curbishley insists he has had no doubts about blooding
what he hopes will be stars of the future at Upton Park. Young defender
James Tomkins made his debut at centre-back against Everton on Saturday,
while striker Freddie Sears made his second appearance after scoring the
winner on his first outing against Blackburn the week before. And Curbishley
has revealed he has been allowing West Ham's youngsters to gain experience
of life with the first-team since Christmas in the wake of injury problems
which have seen the likes of Craig Bellamy and Kieron Dyer sidelined for the
majority of the season. "I took a view just after Christmas as we have had a
lot of injury problems," Curbishley told Sky Sports News. "I took the view
that I was going to have the young players around us, training with us and
coming on the trips to see what it is all about. "It has happened in the
last week that two of them (Sears and Tomkins) have been given an
opportunity at the same time. "We had no doubts and if they are good enough
they have to go in."
And Curbishley believes West Ham have benefited from their mid-table Premier
League position as it has offered the opportunity to look at other options.
"I'm in a good position where I can perhaps not worry about the league
position and the importance of trying to win things, and look at the bigger
picture," added Curbishley. "That's what I've done over the last couple of
weeks so when they did get introduced, James Tomkins at the weekend and
Freddie Sears the week before, it didn't faze them. "They grabbed it and it
has given every one a lift at the club."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Alan Curbishley happy to gamble with youth - The Times
Gary Jacob

Few risks have been taken on the pitch at Upton Park this season, but Alan
Curbishley is prepared to gamble with West Ham United's position to give
younger players experience. The manager has said that the prospects of James
Tomkins and Freddie Sears will be enhanced by playing in the remaining seven
matches of the Barclays Premier League season.

Curbishley had targeted finishing in the top six, but West Ham will need to
do exceedingly well, or poorly, to be dislodged from tenth place. They are
five points behind Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers and Aston Villa and the
same number of points clear of Tottenham Hotspur, with Middlesbrough a
further five points behind in twelfth pace.

Positions have a bearing on players' bonuses and clubs will receive £720,000
per place in prize-money at the end of the campaign. "I appreciate
everybody's position - they want to finish as high as they can, but I've got
to think about the club as well," Curbishley said. "I've got to mix and
match a little bit. For me, it's obviously the bigger picture. I've got no
doubts about putting some of them [younger players] in. But it all depends
if Tottenham go above us, I suppose."

A year ago, Mark Noble was given an opportunity when Nigel Quashie suffered
a foot injury. Noble, now 20, has since started regularly in the team. This
time, Tomkins wants to profit. The central defender is likely to continue in
the starting line-up in the match away to Sunderland tomorrow, when he will
turn 19, because Matthew Upson is a doubt with a calf injury.

Tomkins scored twice for England Under-19 against Russia on Tuesday. "Every
game and every point is vital, but at some stage, if they are good enough,
you have got to give them a go," Curbishley said. "They bring enthusiasm and
want to do well. You can see the strength of the squad."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: Rooney lined up as England captain, and Ashton could help ease
his load up front - Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE by NEIL ASHTON - More by this author »
Last updated at 08:19am on 28th March 2008

Wayne Rooney is in line to be England captain for the friendly against the
United States in May as Fabio Capello contemplates calling up Dean Ashton to
solve his striker crisis. Capello believes Rooney, 22, is the country's only
world-class talent but wants more from the Manchester United striker and is
prepared to make him England's third-youngest captain after Bobby Moore and
Michael Owen to achieve it. Capello also wants to beef up England's attack
and Ashton, who is finally returning to form with West Ham, will be closely
monitored. Ashton came to Capello's attention with goals against Blackburn
and Everton last weekend. He was picked for the first time under Steve
McClaren but missed the chance to make his debut when he broke his ankle
before the 4-0 win over Greece in August 2006. Although Capello is convinced
Steven Gerrard can play in the hole behind Rooney, he will adopt a more
attacking strategy against the USA. Capello will not abandon the system he
used in Wednesday's 1-0 defeat against France but wants England to be able
to adopt several different formations as they gear up for the World Cup
qualifiers. While Ashton is in contention for a call-up, Peter Crouch has
also impressed the England regime and remains a potential partner for Rooney
in any tactical switch. Theo Walcott had been earmarked to start alongside
Rooney in Paris but his chance was lost when he made only a brief appearance
from the bench during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat at Chelsea last Sunday. Capello
is desperate to find a right back after another poor performance from Wes
Brown in the Stade de France. Glen Johnson, who has been so consistent for
Portsmouth, also disappointed the Italian. Capello has noticed a difference
in attitude between players from different clubs. Gerrard arrived at the
team hotel last Sunday in a foul mood after Liverpool's loss to Manchester
United and the coaching staff were delighted by his excellent response in
training the following day. Rooney, who had torn Liverpool apart, also
showed that he was willing to take on new ideas. But questions are forming
over the attitude of some others. David Bentley was especially upset when he
learned his place had gone to David Beckham.

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Colchester dismiss West Ham link to Gerken - Daily Mail
Last updated at 12:56pm on 27th March 2008

Colchester have rejected speculation linking their goalkeeper Dean Gerken
with a £500,000 move to West Ham. The Essex club insist they will not have
to sell any of their players following their inevitable relegation to League
One. Meanwhile Hammers goalkeeper Robert Green insists there is still more
to come from the club's homegrown stars. The goalkeeper said: "The manager's
had no hesitation in blooding them and it just shows what they can do. I'm
sure everyone is encouraged to see players coming through and doing so
well." Trinidad & Tobago will not prevent Sunderland's Carlos Edwards and
Kenwyne Jones from facing West Ham this weekend. The Black Cats refused to
release the duo for tonight's friendly international against Jamaica on
medical grounds. After Edwards (groin) and Jones (virus) were withdrawn, the
club rejected a request from the Trinidad & Tobago Football Federation to
have their conditions independently verified. The T&TFF threatened to impose
a FIFA sanction that would deny Sunderland use of the pair until five days
after tonight's clash in Kingston. Enforcement of the ruling would have
prevented them from featuring in the crucial Barclays Premier League
showdown against West Ham on Saturday. But according to FIFA vice-president
and T&TFF special adviser Jack Warner, agreement was reached following
intervention from Sunderland manager Roy Keane and striker Dwight Yorke.
Keane and Yorke, Trinidad & Tobago's 2006 World Cup captain, persuaded
Warner to drop the threat. "We are putting all that behind us," Warner told
a press conference, reported in the Trinidad & Tobago Express. "We won't
invoke the FIFA regulation."

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