WHUFC.com
Jonathan Spector, Matthew Etherington and Kieron Dyer all got an extended
run-out in a reserve game
11.12.2008
Freddie Sears scored twice as a West Ham United XI featuring the returning
Jonathan Spector, Kieron Dyer and Matthew Etherington overcame a Major
League Soccer select squad.
Captain for the day Spector, playing his first game since recovering from a
hip injury, was also on target against his compatriots as the Hammers
triumphed 3-2 in an entertaining encounter at Hornchurch FC on Thursday
afternoon.
It was Sears who stole the show in front of the watching Gianfranco Zola and
Steve Clarke, however, netting two goals in the space of eight second half
minutes as United twice came from behind.
Reserve team manager Alex Dyer named a strong side that also included Walter
Lopez, Jack Collison and Diego Tristan to take on a touring squad containing
the cream of the United States' best young players.
England international Dyer, who has not played since a double leg-break in
August 2007, was heavily involved in the early exchanges, making a number of
surging runs through the heart of the American midfield, while Etherington
was in lively form on the left of a three-man attack. It was the youthful
touring side who showed first, however, taking the lead through San Jose
Earthquakes' Davide Somma following a slick build-up on 26 minutes.
The Hammers were level four minutes later, though, when Spector soared above
the American defence to power in an inch-perfect Etherington right wing
corner. Far from being discouraged, the MLS side re-took the lead nine
minutes before half-time when Somma was on hand to lash in a volley from 15
yards after Marek Stech had made a fine block from Real Salt Lake's Yura
Movsisyan.
Dyer, Tristan, Collison and Etherington were all withdrawn as planned around
the hour-mark, but the changes did not prevent the hosts mounting an
impressive late comeback. Youngsters Tony Stokes and Jack Jeffrey gave the
Hammers renewed impetus and they drew level on 68 minutes when Sears took
advantage of a defensive mix-up to poke the ball into the net.
The home side secured victory with 14 minutes remaining, Sears confidently
converting from the penalty spot after the persistent Jeffrey had been
fouled as he burst into the box.
Thursday's fixture completed a three-match tour for the MLS youngsters, who
were coached by former Ipswich Town defender Frank Yallop. On Monday, they
were beaten at Reading, while on Wednesday they went down to Chelsea
reserves.
The game also underlined the growing relationship between West Ham United
and football across North America. Last summer, the Hammers took on the
newly-crowned MLS champions Columbus Crew in Ohio and an All-Star team in
Toronto during a successful ten-day tour.
Full match reaction to follow.
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U18s face Chelsea test
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Under-18s will play Chelsea on Friday after their game was
moved forward a day
11.12.2008
Tony Carr's West Ham United Under-18s make the short trip across London on
Friday to face third-placed Chelsea in the Barclays Premier Academy League.
Carr's side go into the game on a run of mixed league form. Having beaten
Southampton 6-1 away, they then lost their next two games before triumphing
over Fulham and drawing 1-1 at home to Norwich City last Saturday.
Ahmed Abdulla scored the side's goal in that game to take his tally to two
goals in the space of five days following his strike against Nottingham
Forest in the FA Youth Cup earlier that week. His manger is sure the strikes
will benefit the forward. Carr said: "It was Ahmed's second goal in two
games so was very good for his confidence. We need to start ratching up that
goals ratio for the team but it was a very spirited display."
Ollie Lee was again impressive in a central midfield role against the
Canaries, while Matthew Fry continued to show how much he is progressing in
central defence. The academy director is now hoping they can both take their
fine form in to the match at Chelsea's Cobham training ground.
"Ollie Lee played well and gave a real driving performance from midfield on
Saturday and Matty Fry was solid at the back and steadied us defensively.
Fry marshalling the defence and Ollie Lee driving us forward were the real
plus points for me."
Carr's selection choices were depleted for Saturday's game as Peter Loveday,
Balint Bajner, Adam Lee and Tony Brookes were all injured, although he hopes
to have some of them back in time for Friday's fixture. "We had two very
tiring games in a short space of time. We had a couple that didn't start on
Saturday and a couple got injured during the game and we were on our last
legs by the end."
Carr admits he had a bit of job building the players up after the
disappointment of losing at Forest in the third round of the FA Youth Cup.
"The boys were very low after Forest, it's been hard picking them up off the
ground after that, but, once again, they worked hard and I couldn't fault
the effort of the team, we just need to make sure we take more of the
chances we create.
"We're disappointed we didn't get three points on Saturday but they were
bigger and had more strength than us and they were always in the game. A
point was a small step forward after the disappointment of Forest."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cole aiming for goals
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole believes it will not be long before he is back on a goalscoring
run
11.12.2008
Carlton Cole is certain that the goals will start flowing for the West Ham
United strikers soon.
The club's leading scorer this season, who has just signed a new five-year
contract, feels that the settled partnership between himself and Craig
Bellamy will soon bear fruit. "We've got a good understanding together and
Craig's a very clever player and he's great to play with," he said. "Once
we've worked on our relationship then I think we can enjoy success if we
start getting more chances. We need to get some more goals under our belts
because we've not got many between us and it's not great."
Bellamy was desperately unlucky to see his 25-yard drive come back off the
inside of the post in the recent game at Liverpool and Cole came close to
opening the scoring against Tottenham Hotspur with a header from a corner
that flashed wide, before seeing his goalbound effort blocked by Benoit
Assou-Ekotto's arms.
The 25-year-old forward believes it is just these small things that need to
start going in favour of him and his fellow strikers. "I could have scored
against Spurs had it not been for a handball and it's those marginal
decisions which can kill you and cost you the games. When I get in a
position I always try and finish."
After ending a run of 25 games without a clean sheet, the team responded in
style by then keeping three in a row - including one in the trip to Anfield
- but Cole says the new-found solidity at the back has not affected
offerings up front.
"For the past few games we've looked solid and the defence has been
excellent. We've been building from the defence and looking to create more
chances for myself and Craig Bellamy. I don't think us being more solid is
affecting the other end of the pitch, I just think we need more creativity
and that's what we need to work on."
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FA Cup ticket news
WHUFC.com
Tickets for the FA Cup third round tie with Barnsley have gone on sale to
season ticket holders
10.12.2008
Tickets details for West Ham United's FA Cup third round tie with Barnsley
on 3 January 2009 have been announced, with seats available from just £10
for adult season ticket holders. Ticket prices have been greatly reduced
from standard Premier League prices and further discounts are available to
season ticket holders. Barnsley supporters will be allocated the entire
Centenary Stand lower tier for the match, which kicks-off at 3pm, so a great
atmosphere should be generated on the day. Tickets are on sale to season
ticket holders until Thursday 11 December, club members from Friday 12
December and then general sale from Saturday 13 December.
Standard Adult ST Holder Senior / Young Adult
Under 16s
Band 1 £25 £20 £10 £5
Band 2 £20 £15 £8 £5
Band 3 £20 £15 £7.50 £5
Band 4 £15 £10 £7.50 £5
For further information and bookings please contact the ticket office on
0871 222 2700 or for online bookings click here
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nani: Di Michele is great
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 11th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United Technical Director Gianluca Nani has claimed that on loan
striker David Di Michele is a 'great player'. Nani was responsible for bring
the 32-year-old striker to West Ham in the summer since when he has scored
just two goals - both against Newcastle back in September. In United's most
recent fixture - the 2-0 defeat against Tottenham - the former Torino man
angered home fans by ignoring a dangerous free-kick in the closing stages,
preferring instead to tie his shoelaces as play went on around him. However
Nani clearly has faith in the striker who has played just a bit part this
season; talking about the forthcoming transfer window and possible player
movements he said: "Di Michele will stay with us. We have the option to sign
him and we are not thinking of letting him go as he is showing he is the
great player we all admired in Italy."
Nani - who is approaching the end of his first year with West Ham - also
confirmed that the club are not looking to introduce fresh faces to the
squad. Despite having won only one game in the last ten, Nani insisted that
Gianfranco Zola has enough quality in his squad to compete in the Premier
League. "We are happy with our squad," he added. "We have more than 35
players available for the first team, so it is not necessary to intervene in
the transfer market."
Nani also gave his backing to the under-fire Zola, who has won just three of
the 13 games in which he has been in charge of thus far. "Zola was one of
the greatest players in the history of Italian football," said Nani. "We
hope he is appreciated just as much as a coach; he is conducting himself
very well so far."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nani: Pazz deal unlikely
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 11th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Gianluca Nani has dismissed reports regarding West Ham United's interest in
Fiorentian's Giampaolo Pazzini. Nani, talking to the Italian media rubbished
reports that claimed West Ham were set to made a bid for the out-of-favour
La Viola striker. "These days there are many things coming from Italy that I
get calls about", he said. "The truth is that Pazzini does not interest us,
he is absolutely a player that does not enter our plans. "I will also say
that that our intention is not just to bring Italian players to England."
Pazzini had been linked with a move to London since he hinted earlier in the
week that he would consider a move to the Premier League. Meanwhile Nani
once again denied reports that Valon Behrami, signed from Lazio in the
summer for £5million would be returning to Italy in the January transfer
window. "Behrami is a very important player for us and he is not for sale,"
he added. "Behrami, without a shadow of a doubt, will remain with West Ham."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 11th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Kieron Dyer is expected to make his much-delayed return to action later
today when the Hammers play a behind-closed-doors friendly at Chadwell
Heath. Dyer, who has been sidelined for the last 15 months has finally
overcome the double-leg break that, for a long time, threatened to end his
career. He has been training with Gianfranco Zola's squad for the last month
in an attempt to regain match fitness. The England international, 30 later
this month joined the Hammers in a £7.5million switch from Newcastle in the
summer of 2007 but was injured in a Carling Cup tie at Bristol Rovers having
made just two Premier League starts. He broke both tibula and fibula and has
spent the last year-and-a-half desperately trying to save his career. The
club's initial prognosis suggested that Dyer would be back in action early
in 2008. However the former Newcastle and Ipswich winger has suffered a
string of setbacks meaning that he has now been out of action for a whole
year longer than expected. Jon Spector and Danny Gabbidon, two of the club's
remaining long-term injuries are also expected to return to action shortly.
However there is no word on Dean Ashton, who has stated personally that he
does not expect to play much before the end of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers admire Serie A duo
Giovinco and Hamsik on West Ham's radar
By Chris Burton Last updated: 11th December 2008
SSN
West Ham sporting director Gianluca Nani has admitted to being an admirer of
Sebastian Giovinco and Marek Hamsik. Juventus playmaker Giovinco is
attracting interest from a number of Europe's top clubs, although the Turin
giants have made it clear that the talented 21-year-old is not for sale.
Hamsik, meanwhile, is a Slovakian midfielder currently plying his trade with
Napoli. While Giovinco would appear to be out of reach for the Hammers at
present, Nani believes Hamsik possesses all the necessary credentials to be
a future Ballon d'Or winner. "He has the ideal characteristics for a Premier
League footballer," he told Radio Kiss Kiss.
"I believe that Marek, who I know from my time at Brescia, is the best young
midfielder in circulation, a great champion in the making. "When he plays in
the Champions League he'll be on his way to winning the Ballon d'Or. "For me
he's the new (Steven) Gerrard, a champion of international stature."
With constant speculation linking West Ham with a host of Italians in the
New Year, Nani has attempted to stem the tide by suggesting that neither
Giovinco nor any of his compatriots will be heading to Upton Park in
January. "He could interest us but Juventus have been quite clear about
their plans," he said. "I don't think we'll sign an Italian player, even if
in football you can never say never."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers deny Pazzini link
West Ham chief doesn't want Fiorentina striker
By Graeme Bailey Last updated: 11th December 2008
SSN
West Ham have denied having any interest in signing Fiorentina striker
Giampaolo Pazzini. The Hammers had been strongly linked with a move for the
24-year-old and boss Gianfranco Zola knows Pazzini well from their time
together with the Italy Under-21 side. Pazzini, who scored the first-ever
goal at the new Wembley Stadium while with the Azzurrini, only signed a new
long-term contract in Florence last year. But he has slipped down the
pecking order in recent months and with Alberto Gilardino in fine form he
looks unlikely to get a chance to resurrect his career with the Viola.
However, West Ham's director of football Gianluca Nani has been quick to
deny any interest on behalf of the East London club. "These days there are
many things coming from Italy that I get calls about," Nani told Violanews.
"The truth is that Pazzini does not interest us, he is absolutely a player
that does not enter our plans." Reports in Italy suggested former Lazio star
Valon Behrami could head in the opposite direction, but again Nani was quick
to insist there was no truth in that. "Behrami is a very important player
for us and he is not for sale," he insisted. "The story is totally unfounded
and Behrami, without a shadow of a doubt, will remain with West Ham. "I will
also say that that our intention is not just to bring Italian players to
England."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fiorentina boss gives striker Giampaolo Pazzini the green to join West Ham
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 5:46 PM on 11th December 2008
Daily Mail
Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli has admitted he would allow Giampaolo
Pazzini to join West Ham if the striker wanted to move. The 24-year-old has
been linked with a move to West Ham and while Prandelli would love to see
the striker stay, he admits he would be powerless to prevent him leaving the
Stadio Artemio Franchi.
'Pazzini is an important player for Fiorentina and I hope he can show that,'
he told Sky Italia. 'It is the players who decide their own future. If
Pazzini wants to go to West Ham, we would do something about it but at the
moment there's nothing.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Viola boss says Pazzini can join West Ham
Thursday, 11 December 2008
Independent.co.uk Web
Fiorentina boss Cesare Prandelli has admitted he would allow Giampaolo
Pazzini to join West ham if the striker wanted to move. The 24-year-old has
been linked with a move to West Ham and while Prandelli would love to see
the striker stay, he admits he would be powerless to prevent him leaving the
Stadio Artemio Franchi. "Pazzini is an important player for Fiorentina and I
hope he can show that," he told Sky Italia. "It is the players who decide
their own future. "If Pazzini wants to go to West Ham, we would do something
about it but at the moment there's nothing."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham chief happy with the players Zola has at his disposal
By Simon Johnson and Tom Collomosse
Last updated at 5:42 PM on 11th December 2008
Daily Mail
West Ham director of football Gianluca Nani has claimed the club have no
need to strengthen the squad during the January transfer window. But with
the Hammers having won just one of their last 10 Premier League games,
leaving them three points above the relegation zone, certain areas of the
team do appear to need bolstering. Gianfranco Zola is likely to have to sell
some of his coveted targets - Craig Bellamy, Matthew Upson and Robert Green
are all wanted by other clubs - before he can bring in new recruits.
Nani said: 'We are happy with our squad. We have more than 35 players
available for the first team, so it is not necessary to intervene in the
transfer market.'
The Hammers had been linked with a move for Fiorentina striker Giampaolo
Pazzini, whom Zola coached during his time with the Italian Under-21 side,
with midfielder Valon Behrami going in the opposite direction. Yet ahead of
Sunday's Premier League trip to Chelsea, Nani claimed Pazzini would not be
joining the club.
Nani also believes striker David Di Michele is proving 'a great player',
even though the Italian has scored just two goals in 11 matches - both in
the 3-1 win over Newcastle on 20 September - since joining the club on loan
from Torino in September. He added: 'So many people have called me to ask
about something [Pazzini] which is completely unfounded. Further more,
Behrami will stay at West Ham, without any shadow of a doubt. 'It is not our
intention simply to bring Italian players to England. Di Michele, however,
will stay with us. We have the option to sign him and we are not thinking of
letting him go as he is showing he is the great player we all admired in
Italy.'Zola, meanwhile, was one of the greatest players in the history of
Italian football. We hope he is appreciated just as much as a coach and he
is conducting himself very well so far.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers chief says Zola doesn't need new signings
Tom Collomosse and Simon Johnson
Evening Standard
11.12.08 West Ham director of football Gianluca Nani today claimed the club
have no need to strengthen the squad during the January transfer window. But
with the Hammers having won just one of their last 10 Premier League games,
leaving them three points above the relegation zone, certain areas of the
team do appear to need bolstering. Gianfranco Zola is likely to have to sell
some of his coveted targets - Craig Bellamy, Matthew Upson and Robert Green
are all wanted by other clubs - before he can bring in new recruits. Nani
said: "We are happy with our squad. We have more than 35 players available
for the first team, so it is not necessary to intervene [in the transfer
market]."
The Hammers had been linked with a move for Fiorentina striker Giampaolo
Pazzini, whom Zola coached during his time with the Italian Under-21 side,
with midfielder Valon Behrami going in the opposite direction. Yet ahead of
Sunday's Premier League trip to Chelsea, Nani claimed Pazzini would not be
joining the club.
Nani also believes striker David Di Michele is proving "a great player",
even though the Italian has scored just two goals in 11 matches - both in
the 3-1 win over Newcastle on 20 September - since joining the club on loan
from Torino in September. He added: "So many people have called me to ask
about something [Pazzini] which is completely unfounded. Furthermore,
Behrami will stay at West Ham, without any shadow of a doubt. "It is not our
intention simply to bring Italian players to England. "Di Michele, however,
will stay with us. We have the option to sign him and we are not thinking of
letting him go as he is showing he is the great player we all admired in
Italy. "Zola, meanwhile, was one of the greatest players in the history of
Italian football. We hope he is appreciated just as much as a coach and he
is conducting himself very well so far."
The boss returns to his former club, where he played from 1996 until 2003,
with his team struggling to find any form. Zola will be heartened to know,
though, that Didier Drogba is likely to return to the bench again after his
match-winning appearance as a substitute against Cluj on Tuesday. Chelsea
manager Luiz Felipe Scolari is determined to reintroduce the Ivory Coast
international to action slowly following injuries to both knees this season.
His left knee is of most concern, having had two operations on it in the
past 12 months. Drogba has started only one Premier League game this term
because of his fitness problems, although he was not helped by getting a
three-match ban for throwing a coin at Burnley fans last month. The
30-year-old is still well short of match fitness and Scolari wants to keep
faith with Nicolas Anelka, who has scored 15 goals for the Blues this
season. Scolari is still optimistic he will be given the green light to sign
a new striker in January to help share the workload and Amr Zaki, who has
scored nine goals since joining Wigan on loan from Egyptian side El Zamalek,
is on his shortlist. The Chelsea manager may have another problem on his
hands after defender Alex revealed he wants to leave Stamford Bridge next
month.
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Man City in battles for new players
Mark Hughes shows interest in Sheff Utd and West Ham players
SOCCERVOICE.COM, 11.12.2008
Daily Express reports that Man City manager Mark Hughes will try to sign
both Sheff Utd's Kyle Noughton and West Ham defender Matthew Upson. Upson is
also a target for Tottenham and Arsenal, while Noghton will be chased by
Aston Villa. Man City is linked almost to every player in the market, but
will probably not sign all of the players. Mark Hughes will be judged on his
dealings and wealings in the market and if results not appear then his life
as manager at Man City will be short lived. He showed at Blackburn that he
could do almost everything right, so there is a great hope that it also will
happen. Midfielder Michael Johnson could be heading for the exit door and
leave Man City in the transfer window. Blackburn, Everton, Wigan and Bolton
could all be ready to sign Johnson.
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Viola boss would not stand in Pazzini's way if he wanted to join West Ham
8:19pm Thursday 11th December 2008
Echo News
FIORENTINA boss Cesare Prandelli has admitted he would allow Giampaolo
Pazzini to join West ham if the striker wanted to move. The 24-year-old has
been linked with a move to West Ham and while Prandelli would love to see
the striker stay, he admits he would be powerless to prevent him leaving the
Stadio Artemio Franchi.
"Pazzini is an important player for Fiorentina and I hope he can show that,"
he said. "It is the players who decide their own future. "If Pazzini wants
to go to West Ham, we would do something about it but at the moment there's
nothing." The Hammers have denied being interested in signing Pazzini,
despite being strongly linked to a move for the striker in January when the
transfer window opens in January. "These days there are many things coming
from Italy that I get calls about," West Ham's director of football Gianluca
Nani said. "The truth is that Pazzini does not interest us, he is absolutely
a player that does not enter our plans." Pazzini signed a new long-term deal
in Florence last year but has slipped down the pecking order at Fiorentina
and could look for a move away from the Viola to resurrect his career.
The striker is well known to Irons boss Gianfranco Zola from their time
together with the Italian Under-21 international side. And Zola could well
be looking to pep up his front line at Upton Park which struggled to produce
much in the final third against Tottenham in the 2-0 defeat on Monday night.
Zola could also be looking for cut price replacements if he is forced to
sell members of his current squad in January to help the Hammers balance the
books.
Defender Matthew Upson and goalkeeper Robert Green are both believed to be
on Spurs' shopping list. And Manchester City chief Mark Hughes is believed
to be interested in forward Craig Bellamy if rumours that West Ham will put
him up for sale for £6million next month prove true. But Bellamy is
currently playing alongside Carlton Cole at the Hammers, and his strike
partner is convinced that the Irons will soon start finding the back of the
net. "We've got a good understanding together and Craig's a very clever
player and he's great to play with," said Cole, who signed a five-year deal
with West Ham last month. "Once we've worked on our relationship then I
think we can enjoy success if we start getting more chances. "We need to get
some more goals under our belts because we've not got many between us and it
is not great."
Cole is currently the Irons' top scorer with three Premier League and one
Carling Cup strike to his credit. Bellamy has only found the back of the net
once, against Blackburn in the Irons' 4-1 home win over Blackburn, and that
was at the tail end of August. Since then his only goal has come for Wales
in the 1-0 friendly international win away to Denmark last month in Brondby.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Official Mid-Week "How are you feeling, Kieron?" Update.
Match Commentator - Thu Dec 11 2008
West Ham Online
Freddie Sears scored twice as a West Ham United XI featuring the returning
Jonathan Spector, Kieron Dyer and Matthew Etherington overcame an Major
League Soccer select squad. Captain for the day Spector, playing his first
game since recovering from a hip injury, was also on target against his
compatriots as the Hammers triumphed 3-2 in an entertaining encounter at
Hornchurch FC on Thursday afternoon. It was Sears who stole the show in
front of the watching Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke, however, netting two
goals in the space of eight second half minutes as United twice came from
behind. Reserve team manager Alex Dyer named a strong side that also
included Walter Lopez, Jack Collison and Diego Tristan to take on a touring
squad containing the cream of the United States' best young players.
England international Dyer, who has not played since a double leg-break in
August 2007, was heavily involved in the early exchanges, making a number of
surging runs through the heart of the American midfield, while Etherington
was in lively form on the left of a three-man attack. It was the youthful
touring side who showed first, however, taking the lead following a slick
build-up on 26 minutes.
The Hammers were level four minutes later, though, when Spector soared above
the American defence to power in an inch-perfect Etherington right wing
corner. Far from being discouraged, the MLS side re-took the lead nine
minutes before half-time when Davide Somma was on hand to lash in a volley
from 15 yards after Marek Stech had made a fine block. Dyer, Tristan,
Collison and Etherington were all withdrawn as planned around the hour-mark,
but the changes did not prevent the hosts mounting an impressive late
comeback. Youngsters Tony Stokes and Jack Jeffrey gave the Hammers renewed
impetus and they drew level on 68 minutes when Sears took advantage of a
defensive mix-up to poke the ball into the net. The home side secured
victory with 14 minutes remaining, Sears confidently converting from the
penalty spot after the persistent Jeffrey had been fouled as he burst into
the box. Thursday's fixture completed a three-match tour for the MLS
youngsters, who were coached by former Ipswich Town defender Frank Yallop.
On Monday, they were beaten at Reading, while on Wednesday they went down to
Chelsea reserves.
The game also underlined the growing relationship between West Ham United
and football across North America. Last summer, the Hammers took on the
newly-crowned MLS champions Columbus Crew in Ohio and an All-Star team in
Toronto during a successful ten-day tour.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham To Determine Di Michele Future
Goal.com
A return to Torino for David Di Michele is looking very likely, following
his latest comments…
There was never any doubting the fact that Torino's David Di Michele was
going to leave the club in the summer earlier this year, as his problems
with Coach Gianni De Biasi in particular, were well noted. Several clubs
were linked with the Italian hitman, and although it seemed certain that he
would join Roma, somewhat surprisingly the deal failed to go through, and
the player was eventually loaned out to West Ham United instead. The English
club was given the option to make the deal permanent at a later stage, as
they were keen to bolster their attack ahead of the new season. With the
recent sacking of De Biasi as coach of Toro however, Di Michele's former
boss at the Granata, Walter Novellino, has stepped in to once again
takeover. In a recent interview with Tuttosport, the 32-year-old revealed
that, "I currently feel, and I always have felt indebted to the fans of
Torino, as well as with the President. "Last year I scored six goals and did
some important things, but I had to move away from the club, due to other
issues. "Now, I have things to settle; with the fans, with [Urbano] Cairo,
with Novellino, and with my team mates," he added. If West Ham decide to let
the Italian striker leave, then he is all but certain to return to the
Granata, however the decision is up to the English club. Di Michele has
stated however that he will be happy to remain in England for the next six
months, as he claimed that, "I have settled in well at West Ham now, and I
have a good relationship with the club, the players and the fans. "I am
happy in London, and so to respect the club, they will decide my future," he
concluded.
Adrian Del Monte
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EXCLUSIVE: Curbishley demands £3m from crisis-hit Hammers
By NEIL ASHTON Last updated at 11:46 PM on 11th December 2008
Daily Mail
Alan Curbishley has stunned cash-strapped West Ham with a demand for
£3million compensation following his controversial departure from the club.
West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury has turned down Curbishley's
settlement claims and will be forced to thrash it out at an arbitration
hearing expected to be held next month.
Curbishley, who is claiming constructive dismissal and breach of contract,
believes he is entitled to the remaining two years of his £1.5m-a-year deal.
West Ham claim Curbishley's resignation was accepted by the club's board on
September 3 and that he is not entitled to compensation. It is understood
Curbishley will use a television interview with Anton Ferdinand, which was
screened by Setanta, as part of his case against the Barclays Premier League
strugglers. Ferdinand revealed that he did not want to leave West Ham and
understood that the manager wanted him to stay at Upton Park. Sources close
to Curbishley claim the central defender was sold to Sunderland for £8m
behind his back but that was only one of a number of high-profile departures
from the club in the summer. Although Curbishley claims he was told that it
was not the beginning of a fire sale, left back George McCartney was also
sold to Sunderland days later. Curbishley resigned the next day. West Ham
insist Curbishley was made aware in the summer that they needed to sell some
players and even claim his agreement is minuted in a board meeting. West
Ham, meanwhile, have reluctantly entered negotiations with Sheffield United
over their £30m compensation claim arising out of the Carlos Tevez affair.
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BROTHERS IN ARMS
Daily Express
Friday December 12,2008
By John Dillon Have your say(0)
Gianfranco Zola's takeover at West Ham has been unexpected and troubled
enough, but there has been another surprise arrival from Stamford Bridge at
an improbable managerial posting this season. The charge of the good guys
into the dugouts has landed Roberto Di Matteo in the virgin football
territory of Milton Keynes, where life is considerably smoother than for his
former team-mate in the turbulent old heartland of Upton Park. "Gianfranco?
He's a gentleman, an educated man," said Di Matteo. "One of three best men I
ever played with, along with Paolo Maldini and Roberto Baggio. But anyone
who says he's too nice to be a manager is using an old cliche. What if he is
successful. Will he still be too nice then? "When you are a great player
there is no guarantee that you will make it as a coach. But you still have
to be given time to succeed."
The former soldiers of Sir Alex Ferguson were long ago identified as the
core platoon of the new breed of top-level managers; Steve Bruce, Mark
Hughes, Paul Ince and, until last week, Roy Keane. With less attention, the
Chelsea players who forged the first stage of the club's revolution in the
mid-Nineties have set up camp too.
Zola heads back for the first time in opposition on Sunday in a critical
game for a West Ham side toppling into the crisis zone after just one win in
10 matches under his command. Gus Poyet has big ambitions after his spell at
Spurs with Juande Ramos. Dan Petrescu is in charge of Romanian side Urziceni
while Hughes, who played for both United and Chelsea, has the biggest
profile of all at Manchester City. Out of the limelight at MK Dons,
Swiss-Italian Di Matteo, 38, is having the most fruitful time. They head for
Brighton tonight in third place.
In the tidy new stadium back in their new town home sits League One's
Manager of the Month award for November, collected by Di Matteo after four
straight wins.
"It was nice to get the award but let's put it this way; it didn't change
our lives," he said with the soft understatement that goes with an image
similar to Zola's, that of the courteous Italian who could play with the
same level of culture. "Yes, we are in a better position than we thought we
could be. Remember, the club was promoted only last season. But you can have
a bad month too."
Zola volunteered for a firestorm at West Ham. The Icelandic owner has been
crippled in the credit crunch and the wolves elsewhere sense transfer
bargains in January. A potential £30million pay-out to Sheffield United over
the Carlos Tevez affair lurks too. If Zola summons something tangible from
the carnage – mere survival now – it will nail suggestions he is not tough
or experienced enough for the job. Di Matteo has the advantage of learning
away from the spotlight, but said: "The opportunity came and he had to take
it. "I was surprised when I got the offer from Milton Keynes. But it's a
club with a vision. I like that and I like English football. I like the
commitment here."
An article of faith in football's chatter circle says many great players
find it hard to coach because they do not accept their charges have less
ability than they did. Di Matteo, a restaurateur and business graduate among
many achievements that complement his 34 Italian caps, is too well-rounded
to fall for that. He is bitterly aware that talent is fragile, anyway, after
being forced to retire through a badly broken leg when he was 32. "This is a
kind of new starting point," he said. "I don't wake up every morning
thinking, 'what am I doing here in Milton Keynes?' "I haven't had that
problem people talk about, either. I am working my way up too. You adapt
your training to the players you have. Then you see how they respond. If
they don't you do something different. "You have your philosophy and the way
you think you can achieve results, but it's just about winning. I would
never claim we play entertaining football. We can guarantee 100 per cent
commitment and an honest performance. At the end, you hope to pick up a
win."
Zola will be feted like a returning general at Stamford Bridge. The measure
of the appreciation of his fabulous playing ability and spirit is that no
animosity greeted his
appointment at West Ham, which can be a bear-pit of tribalism. Di Matteo's
sublime skills were acknowledged beyond Chelsea too and he said: "Gianfranco
and I were very approachable to the public. We took time to talk to
everyone, Chelsea and beyond. And we had good English which was a big
help." Both know that none of it counts on the managerial razor wire if you
fail. "I'm not sure whether Milton Keynes needs high-profile managers," said
Di Matteo. "All it needs is to go to the next level. Whether you have a
profile or not, you are only going to be judged on results. That's all."
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New deal for Collison
E24
12 December 2008
JACK COLLISON is poised to sign a new contract at Upton Park after
Gianfranco Zola confirmed the Hammers are close to agreeing terms with the
midfielder.
Collison has emerged as one of the club's brightest young prospects
following a handful of eye-catching displays this year, including a stunning
strike against Everton last month. The 20-year-old also made his full Wales
debut this season with a man-of-the-match display in Denmark and the Hammers
are set to reward his breakthrough by sealing a new long-term deal. The
club's decision to offer Collison a long-term contract follows last week's
announcement that fellow academy graduate Freddie Sears has signed on for a
furt her five years. Zola admits that West Ham's homegrown stars will play a
key role in his vision for the Hammers after insisting he will continue the
club's tradition of nurturing promising youngsters. "They are the future of
the club and that is the philosophy we want to have," he said.
"We're looking to build a team like that, where there is always a
possibility of young players coming through and youth to have a chance.
"That is my ideal situation and what we are trying to do. That is why Jack
is going to sign an extension to his contract and Sears has already signed.
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West Ham's Dyer enjoys successful playing comeback
12.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Kieron Dyer enjoyed a successful playing return for West Ham United
yesterday. The England midfielder completed an hour in a friendly against a
young MLS select XI at Hornchurch. Dyer, who has not played since a double
leg-break in August 2007, was heavily involved in the early exchanges,
making a number of surging runs through the heart of the American midfield.
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West Ham chief Nani admits interest for Juventus star Giovinco
12.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham chief Gianluca Nani admits they would go for Juventus midfielder
Sebastian Giovinco if he became available. "Giovinco could interest us but
Juventus have been quite clear with their plans<" said Nani. "Zola is
interested in the way he plays the game but I do not think an Italian player
will come to West Ham, although, in football, never say never."
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West Ham keep eye on Napoli's Hamsik
12.12.08 | Andrew Slevison
West Ham are tracking Napoli midfielder Marek Hamsik. Hammers sporting
director Gianluca Nani has massive wraps on the young Slovakian, saying he
would fit in very well in the English game. "He has the ideal
characteristics for a Premier League footballer," he told Radio Kiss Kiss.
"I believe that Marek, who I know from my time at Brescia, is the best young
midfielder in circulation, a great champion in the making. "When he plays in
the Champions League he'll be on his way to winning the Ballon d'Or. "For me
he's the new (Steven) Gerrard, a champion of international stature."
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West Ham in for Fiorentina's Giampaolo Pazzini
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has set his sights on signing Fiorentina
striker Giampaolo Pazzini in the January transfer window.
Telegraph
By Emily Benammar
Last Updated: 11:50AM GMT 11 Dec 2008
The club have stepped up their interest in the 24-year-old who has struggled
to make an impact in Serie A since joining the club in 2005. The Independent
suggests that in order to land Pazzani, Zola would have to relieve himself
of some 'dead wood' players before being given the green light to initiate
negotiations, and £8 million would have to be raised. The Italian has made
no secret of his intentions to reduce the size of his first-team squad to
around 26. Up to now Fiorentina have denied rumours that their out-of form
forward will leave, but last week club coach Cesare Prandelli said he may be
left with no other alternative. "I still consider him a player who is part
of our project," he said. "But we know it is the players who decide their
fate. "If he decides to leave, restraining him would be difficult, but at
the moment there are no negotiations."
Since January speculation began Craig Bellamy, Dean Ashton, Calum Davenport,
Nigel Quashie, Jonathan Spector, Luis Boa Morte, Lee Bowyer and Hayden
Mullins have all been 'put on the market', with only Robert Green and
Matthew Upson named a players whose futures are safe. Zola's insistence on
Upson staying at Upton Park has however been overlooked by Tottenham and
Manchester City who both said to be preparing £10 million offers.
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Frank Lampard thanks Blues fans for making him a "Chelsea person"
By Mirror Sport 11/12/2008
Frank Lampard has thanked fans for making him a "Chelsea person" after
growing up a West Ham supporter. The England midfielder followed in the
footsteps of his father, Frank senior, by playing at Upton Park but after
moving to Stamford Bridge, the 30-year-old is targeted by Hammers fans when
he plays against them. It will be no different when Gianfranco Zola's men
visit Chelsea on Sunday. Lampard's reception from West Ham fans contrasts
with how he feels about the Chelsea faithful after arriving at the club
seven years ago. "The reason I'm so close with the fans and have a rapport
with them is that growing up a West Ham fan and coming to Chelsea, it was a
potentially difficult move because of the rivalry," he said. "It was a
difficult year when I arrived and I wasn't playing outstandingly well but
they took to me, gave me a chance and got fully behind me. "The way they are
with me on the pitch and off the pitch, I feel very strongly as a Chelsea
person and it's overtaken my life."
He never fails to deliver does he :) - PeterR
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Ilunga slams quit rumours
E24
11 December 2008
HERITA ILUNGA has hit out at speculation linking him with a summer exit from
West Ham after revealing he is keen to sign a permanent deal at Upton Park.
The Congo defender was rumoured to be seeking a move away from east London
after newspaper reports attributed to him descried the Hammers as "a
second-rate club".
But Ilunga has denied that he is using West Ham as a stepping stone and
insists the true meaning of his comments was lost in translation. The
23-year-old, who joined the Hammers on a season-long loan deal from Toulouse
in August, actually referred to the club as a "second-level team" - outside
the Premier League's big four of Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and
Arsenal. And Ilunga has underlined his desire to stay at Upton Park by
revealing that he is hopeful of signing a new long-term contract at West Ham
when his current loan deal expires. He said: "I love being at West Ham. I
want to be a success here and help us to challenge in the Premier League. I
am very impressed with the ambition here and want to stay for a long time.
"Things have gone very well for me, better than I had hoped. The fans are
great. They always show their support during the matches. I have felt an
instant connection with them. "This is a big club and we have a great
tradition and history - I am very proud to be here.
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Man City launching £10M bid for West Ham defender Upson
11.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Manchester City are planning a £10 million bid for West Ham defender Matthew
Upson. The Daily Express says City manager Mark Hughes has said he is on the
look out for a central defender in the New Year, and 29-year-old Upson has
been identified as an ideal candidate to strengthen the Eastlands club's
defence. West Ham have been hit hard by the global financial crisis, and £10
million would come in handy for Gianfranco Zola, who is facing the
possibility of losing his big-name players. Craig Bellamy is reportedly on
the market at a value of £6 million, and it has been widely speculated that
Dean Ashton and Carlton Cole will follow, but Zola insists Upson is off
limits. Upson joined West Ham in January 2007 for £6 million, and his good
form has since earned him a regular starting place in Fabio Capello's
England squad.
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Greedy Lucas Neill is taking the mick, and anything else he can get his
hands on
Last updated at 11:56 AM on 11th December 2008
Daily Mail
The ranks of greedy players in the Premier League are filled with the
unremarkable, unambitious and the deluded. But while supporters have mostly
become inured to their ugly, selfish ways, there is still the odd extreme
example of shocking and shameless grasping. And West Ham's Lucas Neill has
provided more than one.
After turning down Liverpool to move to Upton Park nearly two years ago, he
has become best known for is his disproportionate salary. The Australian
earns £70,000-a-week and has repaid the struggling club by appearing to be
at less than peak fitness, executing a turning circle at the speed of an oil
tanker and sitting on the treatment table. Tough Neill may be, but
inspirational and worth his money he is not. In fact, the only quality that
really makes him stand out is his front. With West Ham's owner suffering
severe financial problems and the club facing a potential £30m payout to
Sheffield United for the Carlos Tevez affair, he has asked for an increase
in his already vastly over-inflated wages. Apart from the poor timing and
lack of sensitivity in the demand as the summer expiration of his contract
looms, it bears no relation to even the warped reality of the Premier
League. Does Neill really think any other club would be willing to meet his
current salary, never mind a larger pay packet? If he does, his mindset
really is out of this world. There just isn't the market for that sort of
waste any more. Even Roman Abramovich is making economies at Stamford
Bridge and if 30-year-old defender Neill was to be granted his pay wish it
would put him on a similar level to Nicolas Anelka at Chelsea, Fernando
Torres at Liverpool and Paul Scholes at Manchester United. Neill is simply
not in their league and none of the big four clubs would touch him after his
less than impressive showings at West Ham. The Upton Park club should sell
him in January, if they can find any takers, or send him packing next summer
with a couple of large suitcases in which to carry all his money.
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Dyer making West Ham playing comeback today
11.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Kieron Dyer is expected to make his West Ham United comeback today. A
specially-arranged, behind-closed-doors practice match at the club's
training ground is scheduled to take place today with the England
international, if he comes through the game unscathed, hoping to return to
first-team action in time for the busy Christmas schedule. "It's like we are
signing a £6m player," one West Ham source told the Independent.
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Man City boss Hughes plans bid for West Ham striker Bellamy
11.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is joining the scramble for West Ham United
striker Craig Bellamy. The Mirror says Hughes has been put on alert by West
Ham's decision to offload Bellamy for £6million. The Hammers desperately
need to sell to ease their mounting financial troubles – and Hughes remains
an admirer of Bellamy from their successful time together with Wales and
Blackburn. Hughes wants to take some of the goalscoring burden off Robinho's
shoulders and Jo has failed to live up to his £19m price tag.
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