WHUFC.com
The efforts of the team of late - not least in awaydays at Liverpool and Chelsea - have pleased Antonio Pintus
18.12.2008
The Christmas period is always a taxing one for players with the games coming thick and fast - but Antonio Pintus is confident West Ham United will rise to the challenge.
The popular fitness coach has settled right into the Chadwell Heath set-up and has nothing but praise for the way the first-team squad have reacted to his methods and expects the same again against Aston Villa this weekend. Although the team will play four games - three in the league and one in the FA Cup - between 20 December and 3 January, Pintus is not worried.
"I think we can cope with all the games," he said, during an exclusive interview with WHUTV. "We have done quite well in the last few games. We can cope with the fitness and I hope we can get the results like we did against Chelsea."
Speaking of the London derby, Turin native Pintus was especially pleased to see the team perform so positively against his former employers, where he worked before spells at Juventus and Monaco in close contact with top talent like Alessandro Del Piero and Emmanuel Adebayor.
"I arrived at Chelsea 12 years ago. I stayed for three seasons and it was the first time I had left my country as a professional fitness coach to work abroad. It was a fantastic experience for me to come back. It was a little strange going back to Stamford Bridge but fantastic because of the result.
"I am 110 per cent West Ham now and it is good because I think the players gave everything on the pitch as usual and it was a very great result. I am very happy." One of the players deserving of special mention was the tireless Valon Behrami, who has particularly impressed Pintus in the last three months.
"Genetically, Behrami has to thank god because as an athlete he is fantastic," said Pintus with a smile. "He could run a marathon but I shouldn't just speak of him. We have very good players in the team and they all do so well during the games."
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Collison commits for five years
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison has received an early Christmas present with a new five-year contract at West Ham United
18.12.2008
Jack Collison has been rewarded for his terrific form and progress with a new contract that will keep him at the Boleyn Ground until 2013. After his senior breakthrough last season, the 20-year-old Welsh international has made five Barclays Premier League appearances this campaign. That run has included his first goal at senior level last month against Everton. He was then singled out for praise by Gianfranco Zola after his display in last Sunday's 1-1 draw at Chelsea when he more than held his own in midfield against Frank Lampard, Deco and Michael Ballack.
Speaking after putting pen to paper on Thursday night, Collison said: "It has been a really good year for me, it is a nice Christmas present and a good way to end the year after making my debut for the senior team at Arsenal at the beginning of the year. I now want to claim a regular place in the starting eleven if I can and really push on now.
"I am delighted that the club wants me here for a long time. It gives you security and now it is sorted, I can just concentrate on my football. I have worked my way through from the youth team to the first and want to be a regular part of it all. The new manager has come in and given me the confidence to show what I can do and now I am aiming to make the most of all my opportunities on the pitch."
West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "I am delighted that Jack has signed a new long-term deal and followed Freddie Sears and Carlton Cole in committing his long-term future to West Ham United. I know Gianfranco Zola and his staff have been very impressed with him and this is just reward for all his hard work. As his performance at Chelsea showed last week, Jack is an exciting young player and one the Academy can be proud of producing. We are fully committed to giving our young players a chance to shine in the first team."
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Aston Villa match preview
WHUFC.com
All the background and early team news ahead ofSaturday's game at the Boleyn Ground
18.12.2008
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United v Aston Villa
Boleyn Ground
Saturday 20 December
5.30pm
Referee: Mark Halsey
WHUTV - Full audio commentary
Introduction
* West Ham United welcome Martin O'Neill's Aston Villa for the club's ninth home match of the 2008/09 Barclays Premier League season.
* United have won three home league matches (Wigan Athletic, Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle United), drawn one (Portsmouth) and lost four (Bolton Wanderers, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur).
* Gianfranco Zola's men go into Saturday's match having drawn 1-1 at Chelsea last time out. Craig Bellamy's 33rd-minute opener was cancelled out by Nicolas Anelka's 51st minute equaliser at Stamford Bridge.
* The Hammers head into the match having not lost at home in the league to Aston Villa since 4 December 1996. Since then, United are nine Premier League games unbeaten at home to the Villans.
*West Ham United manager Zola has a strong squad to choose from. Only Dean Ashton, Danny Gabbidon and Kieron Dyer are definitely unavailable.
* Zola's side go into this weekend's match 16th in the table with 19 points. However, the Hammers sit just two points behind tenth-placed Fulham.
* Aston Villa enter the weekend fourth in the Barclays Premier League table with 31 points from 17 games. Martin O'Neill's side have won five and lost three of their eight away matches. The Villains were in action in midweek, losing 3-1 at Bundelsiga side Hamburg in the UEFA Cup.
* Saturday marks the second home game at which West Ham United have worn shirts bearing the logo of new sponsors SBOBET. The Isle of Man-based online sports bookmakers have signed a lucrative 18-month sponsorship deal with the Hammers. Hoardings and LED boards bearing the company's logo are also on display at the Boleyn Ground.
* This is the fifth consecutive West Ham United match to be screened live on television. The Hammers' away trips to Sunderland, Liverpool and Chelsea and home game against Tottenham Hotspur were also shown live.
* West Ham United face a busy festive season after Saturday's game. The Hammers head to Portsmouth on Boxing Day before hosting Stoke City on 28 December. United's first game of 2009 is an FA Cup third-round tie against Championship side Barnsley at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 3 January.
*This is the 87th league meeting between the two sides. Aston Villa have won 29, West Ham United have won 31 and there have been 26 draws.
Last time out (league)
Sunday 14 December
Chelsea 1-1 West Ham United
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Upson, Davenport, Ilunga, Collison (Boa Morte 87), Parker, Noble (Mullins 72), Behrami, Bellamy (Di Michele 90), Cole
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Faubert, Tristan, Sears
Goal: Bellamy 33
Saturday 13 December
Aston Villa 4-2 Bolton Wanderers
Aston Villa: Friedel, Cuellar, Laursen, Davies, Luke Young, Sidwell, Petrov, Barry, Milner (Reo-Coker 68), Agbonlahor (Shorey 87), Ashley Young (Harewood 81)
Subs not used: Guzan, Delfouneso, Knight, Gardner.
Goals: Agbonlahor 25, Davies 40 og, Agbonlahor 67, Ashley Young 78.
Team news
* United States international defender Jonathan Spector is in contention again after making a successful recovering from a hip injury. The 22-year-old has come through two reserve team matches in the past ten days.
*James Collins is also in contention after recovering from a calf injury suffered in training. The Wales defender was forced to miss last Sunday's 1-1 draw at Chelsea but returned to full training this week.
* Diego Tristan will be hoping to be involved after scoring twice in the 4-3 Barclays Premier Reserve League South win over Chelsea at Bishop's Stortford. The 32-year-old Spain striker struck a low, fizzing 25-yard strike in the first half to open the scoring before adding a late header to put the Hammers 4-2 ahead. The former Deportivo La Coruna forward has made one substitute appearance for the club to date, against Tottenham Hotspur.
* Uruguayan international Walter Lopez was also in impressive form at Woodside Park, playing a role in three of West Ham United's four goals from a left midfield berth.
*Matthew Etherington and Lee Bowyer have both trained this week after recovering from the flu. Bowyer had previously been suffering from a hip injury.
*Today's game has come too soon for England forward Kieron Dyer. The 29-year-old made a successful comeback from his double leg break in a behind-closed-doors match against an MLS select under-21 touring side on Thursday 11 December. Dyer completed an hour before being replaced, as planned. However, he has since been laid low with a bout of flu.
*Also missing are long-term injury victims Dean Ashton (ankle) and Danny Gabbidon (stomach). Both continue to make progress alongside the squad at Chadwell Heath.
* Aston Villa were in UEFA Cup action on Wednesday when a much-changed side without the likes of Brad Friedel, Martin Laursen, Gareth Barry, Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young were rested. They lost 3-1 at Hamburg although were already assured of a place in the knockout stage.
* John Carew has been troubled by a back problem of late and could miss the trip to east London, when Agbonlahor will look to add to his nine league goals this season. Only Cristiano Ronaldo with 14 has scored more.
Background
*The teams last met at Boleyn Ground on Sunday 11 May 2008 when Dean Ashton's 88th-minute equaliser ensured West Ham United ended the 2007/08 season with a 2-2 draw. Earlier, Nolberto Solano had given the Hammers an eighth-minute lead, only for goals from Ashley Young and Gareth Barry to put Villa ahead.
*The lineups were:
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Tomkins, Ferdinand, McCartney (Pantsil 46), Solano (Sears 80), Noble, Parker, Boa Morte, Zamora (Cole 73), Ashton
Subs not used: Richard Wright, Mullins
Goals: Solano 8, Ashton 88
Aston Villa: Carson, Mellberg, Laursen, Knight, Bouma, Petrov, Reo-Coker, Barry, Ashley Young, Carew (Harewood 87), Agbonlahor
Subs not used: Taylor, Salifou, Routledge, Maloney
Goals: Ashley Young 14, Barry 58
Attendance: 34,969
* Carlton Cole will be playing against the team where he spent the 2004/05 season on loan. Cole scored three goals in 30 league and cup appearances (20 starts) for the Villains.
* Robert Green is the only West Ham United player who has appeared in every minute every one of the club's 17 Premier League fixtures this season.
* Matthew Upson has started every one of the club's 17 Premier League games this season, but was substituted in the 3-1 home defeat by Everton in November.
* Scott Parker is one caution away from an automatic one-game ban for five yellow cards.
*Nigel Reo-Coker and Marlon Harewood could both face their former club. Reo-Coker made 142 league and cup appearances between January 2004 and July 2007 and scored eleven goals. Harewood played 170 times for United in all competitions, scoring 56 goals between November 2003 and July 2007.
Head to head (last six meetings, league unless stated)
11 May 2008 - West Ham United 2-2 Aston Villa
6 October 2007 - Aston Villa 1-0 West Ham United
3 February 2007 - Aston Villa 1-0 West Ham United
10 September 2006 - West Ham United 1-1 Aston Villa
14 January 2006 - Aston Villa 1-2 West Ham United
12 September 2005 - West Ham United 4-0 Aston Villa
Overall record v Aston Villa (all competitions) W 36, D 28, L 33
General information
For ticket information, click here.
For details on getting to the Boleyn Ground, click here
Travel news: The District Line will be suspended between Upminster and Barking on Saturday. Two replacement bus services will operate.
Engineering works will also take place between Barking and Upminster on c2c services. A full Saturday service will run, however minor re-timings will occur to Laindon and Ockendon services. Only trains from London are affected by re-timings. Semi-fast Laindon services will depart Fenchurch Street two minutes later and run five minutes later from Upminster. Laindon services calling at all stations will run three minutes later from Upminster. Ockendon services will depart three minutes earlier from Fenchurch Street. Rainham services will not be affected by these engineering works.
Weather: The forecast is for light rain. The temperature is not expected to get above 12C
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Tristan earns Clarke praise
WHUFC.com
Steve Clarke believes Diego Tristan is getting ever closer to making an impact on the first-team picture
18.12.2008
Steve Clarke has spoken ahead of the major meeting with Aston Villa of the boost given by Diego Tristan's best performance to date since arriving at West Ham United.
The first team coach was an avid spectator at Bishop's Stortford on Tuesday as the former Spain striker registered his first two goals in a claret and blue jersey for the reserves. Tristan, who signed on a free transfer in October after leaving the Italian outfit Livorno, is perhaps not able yet to play 90 minutes for the first team, but Clarke is pleased by the progress he is making.
"His fitness is improving but he's not quite ready for a start in the first team yet," the former Scotland international said of a forward who got a brief run-out off the bench at the Boleyn Ground against Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month. "He's been on the bench in games and his reserve game on Tuesday was the best he has done since he came across. From our point of view, that's pleasing, but he's not quite ready to start."
Clarke had further reason to be cheerful after watching Kieron Dyer impress in his first game back since suffering a double leg break in August last year. The 29-year-old played an hour in a practice game last week, despite having a bad case of the flu which then laid him low, meaning that Clarke could only check on his condition this Thursday.
Despite being eager to welcome the No7 back, Clarke said the management team would not rush the midfielder. He said: "After the practice game he had no reaction. We just didn't see him for six days afterwards. That was the first game he played so he won't be ready for Saturday.
"I spoke to him today and he's not so chipper because he's recovering from the flu so he's a little bit down. Hopefully he can see now some light at the end of the tunnel, we can get some match fitness into him and welcome him back when he's ready. It's important that it's when he's ready and not before because it's then that you pick up more injuries."
There is positive news with James Collins back in contention after a calf injury, while Lee Bowyer and Matthew Etherington have also been involved after also being hampered of late by flu. Only Dean Ashton and Danny Gabbidon are long-term absentees. The England striker remains at Chadwell Heath as he continues to make progress in his rehabilitation from an ankle injury - but Clarke stressed it was still too early to put a time-scale on either of their comeback dates.
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Collison signs new West Ham deal
BBC.co.uk
West Ham midfielder Jack Collison has signed a new contract that will keep him at Upton Park until 2013. The 20-year-old Wales international has made five Premier League appearances this season, and played a key role in last weekend's 1-1 draw at Chelsea. "The new manager [Gianfranco Zola] has come in and given me the confidence to show what I can do," Collison told the club's website. "Now I am aiming to make the most of all my opportunities on the pitch."
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Happy Jack
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Jack Collison has been rewarded for his rapid progress with a new contract. The 20-year-old Welsh international midfielder has signed a new five-year deal with United that keeps him tied to Upton Park until 2013. Collison has made just five appearances for the Hammers thus far this season but has impressed both the club and supporters with his energetic displays. He opened his goalscoring account for the club in the 3-1 home defeat against Everton last month.
Talking to whufc.com tonight, a happy Collison said: "It has been a really good year for me. It is a nice Christmas present and a good way to end the year after making my debut for the senior team at Arsenal at the beginning of the year. I now want to claim a regular place in the starting eleven if I can and really push on now. "I am delighted that the club wants me here for a long time. It gives you security and now it is sorted, I can just concentrate on my football. I have worked my way through from the youth team to the first and want to be a regular part of it all. "The new manager has come in and given me the confidence to show what I can do - and now I am aiming to make the most of all my opportunities on the pitch."
Collison's rapid emergence from Tony Carr's youth team set-up saw the Watford-born number 31 make his international debut in the 1-0 victory in Denmark last month - a game won by a goal from Collison's West Ham United team mate Craig Bellamy.
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50 mill, you're having a laugh
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Sheffield United are unlikely to be awarded more than £10million in their 'fairness in football' case.
Club insiders at West Ham now believe that the Blades - who at one stage were claiming up to £50million from the Hammers after a tribunal panel decided in their favour in the ensuing Carlos Tevez case - are unlikely to get anywhere near that figure.
West Ham's lawyers have spent recent weeks poring over Sheffield United's accounts after they were granted access by a recent adjudication panel and insist that the Blades' claims are wildly inaccurate - so much so that they ignored the two annual parachute payments received from the Premier League upon their relegation when calculating losses.
Current chairman Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson, who is currently in talks with at least two parties with regards to purchasing West Ham United FC is expected to agree to honour the award of any damages as a condition of sale of West Ham, which is on the market for a fee of around £200million - although the board are likely to accept a figure between £120million-£150million.
Details of the interested parties remains undisclosed although that could all change in the new year if and when due diligence begins - the next process in the eventual sale of the club. However at least one of the interested parties are unlikely to move until the damages claim with Sheffield United has been settled.
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Neill looking ahead
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Lucas Neill has denied reports that he has demanded an improved contract. The West Ham and Australia captain is out of contract in the summer but still looking to extend his stay at the club, whom he joined in January 2007. However he has denied press reports suggesting that he has demanded a huge increase on his current salary. "My reaction was to laugh it off," he told Sky Sports. "Obviously because it's clearly untrue, but for 40,000 West Ham fans there is a different reaction. The first one is 'how dare he?' and 'how greedy'. "I've had assurances from the manager that he wants me to stay but there's been no talk of how long, how much. It's just been a case of me saying I want to finish my career at West Ham. "I know the situation with the club and the way things have gone. I love the club. I love the role that I have. I relish the challenge. "When the time is right and when the time is right for the club - because it's not their priority at the moment - then we'll do it."
Neill - who had a tough time all in all last year - has found his form steadily improving this season, and he has been instrumental in recent solid results at Stamford Bridge and Anfield. However rumours persist that the club may be looking to sell a number of players next month in the winter transfer window, with a number of players linked with moves elsewhere. Despite that, Neill says the squad remain committed to the cause. "You can take it straight from me that no one's thinking about leaving," he added. "I can't speak from a financial or board point of view but from a player or coaching point of view, the squad needs to stay together."
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The Egg cracks
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Eggert Magnusson has added to the woes of former friend and business partner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson by suing West Ham United's chairman for unfulfilled payments. Magnusson - who was Chairman of West Ham United between 2006 and 2007 - told Icelandic channel RUV earlier today that he is chasing Gudmundsson for fees in the region of £1million, fees that were promised to him upon his dismissal a year ago. Magnusson claims to have received just £100,000 so far, when he was promised £200,000 plus €1million.
The news is just the latest in a long line of disasters for United owner Gudmundsson, who has seen his empire crash around him in recent months. Landsbanki, XL and Hansa - all companies in which Gudmundsson retained a major financial interest - have all entered administration in the last six months, whilst Sheffield United, former owner Terry Brown, former manager Alan Curbishley, agent Kia Joorabchian and now Eggert Magnusson have sued the club - a situation that has left the former Icelandic billionaire with no option but to offer United for sale.
Magnusson was the public face of the Icelandic consortium - despite only holding a 5% stake in the club - and was an instant hit with supporters, to whom his jovial nature appealed. However after the club's wage bill spiralled out of control - thanks to expensive Magnusson signings such as Freddie Ljungberg, Scott Parker and Kieron Dyer - Gudmundsson acted by dismissing his former friend, a year ago this week.
Sues you Sir: who is (or was) after BG's Krona ...
Sheffield United (£50million): Championship outfit Sheffiled United are seeking damages of up to £50million because a tribunal decided that Carlos Tevez was responsible for their relegation from the Premiership two seasons ago. Current speculation suggests that the hypocritical Blades will be lucky to see £10million.
Terry Brown (up to £5million): The former Chairman of United threatened to sue his successors last year after he was told he was no longer welcome at the club as a result of the Carlos Tevez fiasco, whilst having his salary - agreed at the time of the club's sale - retained. The two parties later settled out of court and Brown is once again welcome at the Boleyn. Ironically perhaps, Brown is now thought to be advising one of the parties interested in purchasing the club from Gudmundsson.
Kia Joorabchian (£7million): the odious son of a second hand car salesman threatened to take the Hammers to the High Court back in February after he claimed he was owed a touch over £7million for fees relating to the signing of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano. The two parties later settled out of court with Joorabchian promised a percentage of certain future transfers.
Alan Curbishley (£3million): Gianfranco Zola's predecessor walked out on his job at the start of September in protest at the club's decision to take transfer business out of his hands by selling Anton Ferdinand and George McCartney without his say-so. Curbishley is claiming 'constructive dismissal', and is suing Gudmundsson for the remainder of his contract.
Eggert Magnusson (£1million): No doubt already feeling let down by a man who he had considered a personal friend for a number of years, Eggy is the latest to jump on the legal bandwagon, suing Gudmundsson for unpaid bills of around £1million.
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Bellamy plays down Celtic talk
West Ham striker insists he is happy at Upton Park
Last updated: 18th December 2008
SSN
West Ham United striker Craig Bellamy believes a return to Celtic is 'never going to happen'. Reports have speculated that the Wales international could make a January switch to Parkhead, amid growing concern over the Hammers' financial situation. However, Bellamy - who had a successful loan spell at Celtic in 2005 - feels a switch back to the SPL is extremely unlikely. "I'm very happy at West Ham and I'm never going to go in and ask for move. But you don't know what position the club is in," he said. "You don't know if they are going to accept bids or not accept bids. "I have been with Celtic and I like Celtic a lot - everybody knows that I had a great time there. "But when was the last time Celtic paid £7million for a player? "When was the last time Celtic went to the wages that I am earning at West Ham?
"I know the chief executive Peter Lawwell very well. I've spoken to him and I know that he would like to have me there and I would like to go there one day. "But if we are all being realistic, and living in the real world, it's never going to happen."
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Dyer comeback delayed
Midfielder will have to wait until New Year
Last updated: 18th December 2008
SSN
West Ham midfielder Kieron Dyer's hopes of a Christmas return to action have been hit by illness. Dyer has been sidelined since he suffered a broken leg in August 2007, shortly after arriving at Upton Park from Newcastle. The 29-year-year-old played in a behind-closed-doors match last week but his comeback was short-lived as he had to be replaced at half-time due to a virus. Dyer stated a fortnight ago that he was targeting a first-team return over the busy festive period, but West Ham assistant manager Steve Clarke has admitted he will have to wait a little longer. "He's not ready yet," said Clarke. "He played his first game last week but had to come off at half-time because he was suffering from the flu. "That was last Thursday, and today was his first day back at training - so where he was this time last week, he's now further back because he's missed so much training from being ill. "I spoke to him today, and he's not so chipper because he's recovering from the flu and is a bit down. "He's been out a long time, and I think any player who's been out a long time starts to feel a little bit down."
Dyer's recovery has been a slow process and Clarke has stressed that he will not be rushed back now that he is almost ready. "We hope he can see some light at the end of the tunnel," Clarke explained. "We need to get some match fitness into him, so we can welcome him back when he's ready. "It's important that it's when he's ready and not before he's ready - because then he'll pick up more injuries. "He had no reaction from the game injury-wise, but we didn't see him for six days after the game - so for me, that's a bad reaction."
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Stranzl eyes British move
Defender keen on switch
Last updated: 18th December 2008
SSN
Spartak Moscow ace Martin Stranzl wants to seal a move to Britain, according to his agent. Scottish giants Rangers, along with Premier League clubs Fulham, West Ham and Everton have been linked with the giant Austrian stopper. The 28-year-old's representative now admits that Stranzl is happy to be linked with a move. "His goal is to play in the UK," Thomas Boehm told The Herald. "He has had teams looking at him for many years now as he is an experienced international who has all the attributes for the British game. "Martin has said before that he is keen to play for one of the top clubs in England and Scotland." Spartak general director Valery Karpin admitted the club would study any approaches for Stranzl. "If we get offers, everything will depend on conditions of agreement," he said.
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Clarke unmoved by Irons speculation
TeamTalk
West Ham assistant manager Steve Clarke insists the uncertainty surrounding the club's ownership is not affecting him or the players. On Wednesday the lawyers of owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson valued the east London club at £250million and vice-chairman Asgeir Fridgeirsson confirmed several offers were being considered.
The Hammers' problems arose when Gudmundsson lost vast amounts of money after the collapse of Landsbanki, the Icelandic bank of which he was chairman and a major shareholder, in October. But Clarke, whose own future could be in jeopardy should a takeover occur, played down suggestions the club is in crisis, claiming the economic downturn has affected everyone. "If you're asking me personally, it's had no effect," he said. "I come to the club every day to work with the players and try to improve the team. "If you allow yourself to get distracted by goings on and other things going on around you which are out of your control, then you lose focus on what you're trying to do. "West Ham keep getting put forward as the club that's in crisis but I think a lot of football clubs maybe have similar problems."
Clarke added: "I think in any football club there's uncertainty, especially in the current climate. "The financial situation is not just in football. I think everything's a bit tight which isn't too good but that's for another programme." It has been suggested that West Ham will be forced to sell key players in the January transfer window to relieve financial pressure, but Clarke insisted any sales will be based on footballing factors. "We have I think 27 outfield players and three non-outfield players which is a first-team squad of 30 players, which is too big," he added. "If we can let one or two of the squad players go who want to go somewhere else then we can do that. "As far as we're concerned we're under no pressure to sell anybody."
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18/12/2008 19:55
'Flu Delays Dyer's West Ham Return
Goal.com
Kieron Dyer's long, long return from injury has been hit with yet another set-back. West Ham United's 'forgotten man' Kieron Dyer came through 45 minutes of a behind-closed-doors reserve game for the Hammers last Thursday. Good news, one might think, but before Irons fans get too excited, the player's comeback has been delayed even further by a bout of 'flu.
Dyer has been out of action since August 2007, when he broke his leg in two places in only his third game for the Hammers. He played last week against a touring Under-21 side representing American Major League Soccer, and was substituted at half-time.
He then missed another week of training due to the 'flu, and that has subsequently set back his rehabilitation.
"He's further back again because he's missed so much training," stated West Ham assistant manager Steve Clarke. "I just didn't see him for six days after."
Clarke went on to say that although the former England midfielder hadn't felt any reaction in his leg, the illness had left him feeling very low.
"I think any player's who's been out a long time will start to feel a little bit down but, hopefully, he can see some light at the end of the tunnel," added Clarke.
"We can get some match fitness into him and welcome him back when he's ready."
The West Ham assistant also stressed that Dyer would not be rushed back in to action because of the risk of further injuries hampering his return even more. The former Ipswich Town and Newcastle United player has had a career blighted by long-term injuries that have never allowed him to fulfil his obvious potential.
Dyer turns 30 over Christmas, and another bad injury would surely mean the end of his career for the versatile attacking midfielder, who has 33 England caps to his name.
Zack Wilson, Goal.com
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Bellamy ends talk of Celtic move by saying he is out of their price league
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 2:06 AM on 19th December 2008
Daily Mail
Craig Bellamy has ruled out a move back to Celtic after claiming they could not afford his fee or his wages. The Wales international had a successful loan spell at Parkhead in the 2004-05 season before joining Blackburn. However, the striker, said to be on £100,000 a week at West Ham, moved to end talk that he is set to return to Glasgow next month. 'When was the last time Celtic paid £7million for a player?' said the 29-year-old on talkSPORT. When was the last time Celtic went to the wages I am earning at West Ham?' Bellamy moved to Upton Park from Liverpool in 2007 for £7.5m and has scored just two league goals this season.
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Magnusson issues Hammers writ
Louise Taylor The Guardian, Friday 19 December 2008
The former West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson is suing the club's owner, Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson, over the terms of his exit from Upton Park last year.
According to legal documents filed yesterday at the Reykjavik Municipal Court, Magnusson is demanding 200m krona (£1.1 million) from Gudmundsson, who is trying to sell the club after falling victim to the Icelandic economic crisis.
Magnusson became chairman of West Ham in November 2006, when he bought the club with Gudmundsson through WH Holding Ltd, but was relieved of his duties a year later and Gudmundsson added his 5% stake to his controlling interest.
In the legal papers, Magnusson said he was guaranteed three months' pay following the termination of his contract and was to receive €1m and £200,000. Magnusson claims he has been paid only £100,000.
Meanwhile Joe Kinnear believes there is a "60-40" chance of Michael Owen accepting a new three-year contract at Newcastle United and indicated yesterday that it could even be signed before Tottenham Hotspur visit St James' Park on Sunday.
Just last week a much more pessimistic Kinnear claimed that he thought the odds of the England striker remaining on Tyneside were around "30-70" but Newcastle's manager now feels that Owen is being strongly tempted by the security of the long-term deal on offer.
"It was my idea to offer Michael three years, which will take him up until he's 32," said Kinnear, who added that the prospective agreement may potentially be extended into a fourth year, although this would necessitate Owen playing in more than 50% of Newcastle's games during his third season.
"Michael told me that when Kevin [Keegan] was here he had previously been offered only 12 months and I did not really see any value in that," explained Kinnear. "So I just said, 'What if we can tie you up for the rest of your career, more or less, would you be happy with that?' and Michael said, 'Yes, I would be delighted'.
"So I spoke to Mike [Ashley, the Newcastle owner] and said could we give Michael three years plus the possible option of another one and Mike said, 'OK, do it'.
"I am not going to say Michael will definitely sign but I think he will. We haven't exactly agreed a deadline but two days ago I did ask Michael 'When are you going to make a decision?' and he said 'In the next couple of days'.
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West Ham's Tristan uncertain of future
19.12.08 | Andrew Slevison
West Ham striker Diego Tristan admits he does not where his future lies with the club. The 32-year old has been out of favour with Gianfranco Zola but just wants to be given a chance to show his goal scoring capabilities. "Scoring goals is very important for a striker, it gives us confidence. But to make it I need to play 90 minutes of a game because I need rhythm," the former Deportiv la Coruna star told Marca. "I must be prepared for every game because the team could need me and I'm hopeful I'll be able to give a hand by scoring goals. "I'm aware of the fact that Carlton Cole and Craig Bellamy are playing very well, but I want to be given a chance and I hope it'll arrive sooner rather than later."
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West Ham legend Di Canio in frame for FC Cluj job
19.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Paolo Di Canio is a shock candidate for the coaching job at FC Cluj. The Romanians have sacked coach Maurizio Trombetta and could replace him with another Italian in West Ham legend Di Canio. Di Canio has held talks with Cluj representatives this week and has made no secret he wants to kickoff his coaching career this season.
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West Ham No2 Clarke admits fringe players sale
19.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United No2 Steve Clarke admits they're keen to offload several of their fringe players in January. The Hammers have 27 outfield players and three goalkeepers on their books, a number that could be cut down in January. Clarke said: "If there's an opportunity to let one or two of the squad players go who want to go and play somewhere else, then we can do that." But Clarke said the West Ham management team were not under pressure to sell, despite the club being up for sale.
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West Ham No2 Clarke denies 'crisis club' tag
19.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United assistant boss Steve Clarke has rubbished talk that they're a 'crisis club'. Clarke said: "If you allow yourself to be distracted by other things that are going on that you can't control then you lose focus on what you're trying to do. "I come into the club every day, my job is to work with the players, try and improve the team." The assistant manager said West Ham were not the only club facing financial uncertainties at the moment. Clarke said: "I think in any football club there's uncertainty, especially in the current climate. "West Ham keep getting put forward as a club that's in crisis, but that's not the case. I think you'll find that there are a lot of football clubs that maybe have similar problems."
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West Ham No2 Clarke: Tristan close to first team call
19.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham No2 Steve Clarke says Diego Tristan is close to a first team call. "His fitness is improving but he's not quite ready for a start in the first team yet," he told whufc.com. "He's been on the bench in games and his reserve game on Tuesday was the best he has done since he came across. From our point of view, that's pleasing, but he's not quite ready to start."
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Parker: Hammers are ready for take off
10:03am Thursday 18th December 2008
Echo
WEST Ham midfielder Scott Parker believes the team's superb performance in last Sunday's draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge will fuel an ascent up the Premier League table. The Hammers are languishing in 16th place and are just one point above the relegation zone, but Parker, who was instrumental in the side's display, believes the players can take heart from the result and start to turn their fortunes around. "We went a goal up early on and we expected to be put under pressure but we were solid and put in a good shift. I think we deserved a point," said the 28-year-old. "I think we can push on from here and climb the table."
Parker, returning to his old hunting ground after spending a year with the Blues in 2004, produced a man of the match performance to help derail his former club's title ambitions, but more importantly, steer the Irons' season back on track. Having suffered a demoralising home defeat to Tottenham last week, the last place the team would have wanted to play next was the Bridge, which has become something of a fortress for Chelsea, having recently racked up a run of 86 games without defeat. But Parker insists the side applied themselves perfectly with a determined approach, while he was keen to point out that they more than held their own in the football stakes. That knowledge has given the midfielder the belief that the side can go on a strong run, with fourth-placed Aston Villa the next visitors to Upton Park. "I think it was clear we have spirit. We have something there that you need and, with the league being so tight – two good wins moves you up or two bad defeats puts you in trouble – the spirit and determination is something you need and we definitely have that," insisted Parker. "We want to push on again, we have had two away games now against two teams from the top four and in those games we have shown that we have matched and played better at times than them. Hopefully we can take that into the next few matches."
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We want to break free, insists Hammers boss
9:56am Thursday 18th December 2008
Echo
WEST Ham boss Gianfranco Zola believes the team's impressive draw at Chelsea last weekend will enable them to break free of the shackles that have begun to tighten after a string of disappointing results. The Hammers have managed just one victory in their last 11 league games after an encouraging start to the Italian's managerial career at Upton Park. Defeats to Bolton, Hull, Everton, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United in that period has seen the Irons slip to 16th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone. But after seeing his team take the lead against his former club at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and hold firm to claim a morale-boosting point, Zola is confident that the pressure that has been building over recent weeks will be lifted, allowing the players to play with the freedom they enjoy. After following up an encouraging draw at Liverpool with a home defeat to bitter rivals Tottenham, the West Ham manager is keen for this latest result not to produce a similar false dawn. "It's an important result for us, especially after last Monday's performance against Tottenham. That was a big, big shock for us," said the Chelsea legend. "Everybody was down and everybody was nervous during the week so this performance will help to build up our confidence. "Maybe this time we will play with a bit more confidence, a bit more freedom but with less pressure. This point and this performance has been vital for us."
While the Irons have struggled to grind out results of late, Zola insists the team are still producing the type of football that is capable of winning games. "The players did what they've been doing well," he added. "They've been passing the ball very well and if they keep doing that all the time then I'm sure that the results will come."
Indeed, the visitors even had the chance to nick a win at the death on Sunday, when striker Carlton Cole found himself through on goal, only to see his effort brilliantly saved by Petr Cech. However, had it been the flamboyant Zola on the pitch, they may very well have been walking away with all three points. "When Carlton Cole was through at the end I was thinking: 'Chip it over the 'goalkeeper! Chip it over the goalkeeper.' He had a good shot but Petr Cech made a very good save. "They had good chances, too, and at the same time our goalkeeper was outstanding."
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Irons boss: Chelsea goal will boost Bellamy
9:59am Thursday 18th December 2008
Echo
GIANFRANCO Zola believes the West Ham faithful will start seeing the best of Craig Bellamy after the striker scored his first goal for the club since August against Chelsea on Sunday. The Wales international has endured a barren run in front of goal, having gone 11 games without finding the net before the weekend, with his last strike coming in the 4-1 drubbing of Blackburn Rovers at the beginning of the season. But his fierce volley that beat Blues' goalkeeper Petr Cech at his near post after half an hour to give the Hammers the lead can see him regain his golden touch, according to his manager. While Zola was careful not to let his emotions get the better of him during the game, he admitted afterwards that he felt as if it was he who had found the net, such was his relief to have seen the 29-year-old get on the scoresheet. "I couldn't jump up and down when we scored," said the Italian. "Inside I was very, very happy - especially for Craig Bellamy because he's been playing well and working hard and he needed that goal. "He was getting so frustrated about not scoring and I'm sure that'll help him. In fact, it was like that I'd scored. I was very pleased for him."
Bellamy has managed just six goals for the club since his £7.5million move from Liverpool in 2007, after two operations were required on his knee and groin, which saw him ruled out from February this year to the start of the current campaign. But fans will hope that his latest goal will trigger an upturn in the forward's fortunes.
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West Ham owners sticking to £250million valuation as they try to sell club
The Mirror
By Neil McLeman 18/12/2008
West Ham's Icelandic owner is seeking to double his money despite the credit crunch after valuing the club at £250million. Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson, who bought the club for £85m in December 2006, has allowed five potential buyers to look at confidential financial information. West Ham's debt has risen from £20m to £50m during his reign and there remains the threat of a £30m fine over the Carlos Tevez affair. But court papers filed in Iceland on Tuesday from Gudmundsson's investment company Hansa show he now values at the Hammers at £250m. Hansa has gone into voluntary liquidation and Gudmundsson is in talks with the Icelandic government and banks about how to restructure his assets, including West Ham. Vice-chairman Asgeir Fridgeirsson said: "We are reviewing the asset, looking at what might be the value of the club. There is a great interest in the club and many parties are calling. "Following such a review we will take a decision whether to sell or not. We don't have to sell. It's a process where we are gathering options and information to see what is out there in terms of demand." Captain Lucas Neill has claimed coach Gianfranco Zola wants him to stay at the club and sign a new contract. The Australian's current deal is up at the end of the season but the former Blackburn defender said: "I want to finish my career at West Ham. I made that statement at the start of the season and I have had assurances from the manager that he wants me to stay."
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Parker determined that the Irons will survive
E24
18 December 2008
By JONATHAN CLEGG
SCOTT PARKER insists that West Ham have shown they have the fighting spirit to survive a relegation scrap following the club's battling draw at Chelsea last weekend. Parker produced a commanding display as the Hammers picked up a precious point in their fight against the drop at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, preventing the Blues from regaining leadership of the Premier League table. The England international was named man of the match in the meeting with his former club after helping to limit the influence of Chelsea's line-up of stars, including former Hammers Frank Lampard and Joe Cole. But Parker declined to reflect on his individual performance after the match, preferring to focus on the team ethic that he believes will help the club climb away from relegation danger in the coming weeks. "The whole squad out there was great - it was a reward for defiance and guts," Parker said of the club's first point against Chelsea in seven matches. "The manager was really pleased - everyone put in a shift and we can all be proud to go home with a point. "I think it's clear that we have spirit. We have something there that you need - with the league being so tight that two wins move you up or two bad results put you in trouble, the spirit and determination is something you need and we definitely have that."
West Ham's battling qualities have helped the club collect a series of impressive results on their travels. The Hammers are now unbeaten in four matches away from Upton Park and have collected points from Anfield and Stamford Bridge this month. The club even had opportunities to improve on a return of two points from those trips, with Craig Bellamy striking the post in the goalless draw against Liverpool and Carlton Cole missing a great chance to hit a late winner against Chelsea last weekend when his low shot was saved by Peter Cech. Parker is confident that the form of both players can help the club capitalise on their combative displays and lift the team away from the drop zone. "Craig is always a threat but has not got the goals to go with that of late, but his performances have shown what he's capable of," Parker said. "Carlton Cole had a late chance at the end and put in a good shift as well, so there's no reason why they can't go on from this again and push on.
"We want to push on again - we've had two away games now against two teams from the top four and in those games we have shown we've matched them and played better than them at times. "Hopefully we can take that into the next few games.
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Nani denies a link to Pazzini
E24
18 December 2008
WEST HAM technical director Gianluca Nani has dismissed speculation linking the club with a January move for Fiorentina striker Giampaolo Pazzini - despite reports in Italy that the 24-year-old is poised for a switch to Upton Park. Former Italy Under-21 star Pazzini has fallen out of favour in Florence and is keen to find a new club when the transfer window opens next month. Gianfranco Zola coached the striker during his spell in charge of the Under-21 side and Pazzini hinted last week that he would be interested in linking up with the Hammers boss in the Premier League. But Nani has denied that Pazzini will join the Hammers after claiming that the club have no need to strengthen in January. He 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. "So many people have called me to ask about something [Pazzini] which is completely unfounded." Fiorentina manager Cesare Prandelli had earlier opened the way for Pazzini to move to the East End after admitting he would be powerless to prevent him from joining West Ham. "If Pazzini wants to go to West Ham, we would do something about it but at the moment there's nothing," Prandelli told Sky Italia last week.
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The end of the Ice Age
Newham Recorder
18 December 2008
The Hammers Icelandic Chairman Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson finally bowed to the inevitable this week and decided that he will listen to parties interested in acquiring the east London club, though his valuation of £250million, may be just one of the stumbling blocks as West Ham look towards another new era. In 2006, biscuit baron Eggert Magnusson and his consortium funded by banker Gudmundsson, beat Iranian businessman Kia Joorabchian to buy the club in a deal worth £105million.
Two years later, two managers and one chairman later, as well as the team struggling against relegation and the world in economic crisis, Gudmundsson believes the value of the club has increased by £100million! "The recent sale of Manchester City for £230million could give reason to expect a higher price," said the Icelandic banker's lawyers in court papers submitted over the sale of the club. "West Ham is thought to be a more valuable club when looking at its location in London, loyal fan base, more chance of linked real estate projects, proximity to the Olympic Village and the fact that West Ham owns its ground, which is not the case with Manchester City. "The City sale therefore gives cause to expect that West Ham could be valued at more than £250million."
What the chairman fails to appreciate is that everything has dropped in value over the last few months, including his own assets, which is the reason he is now willing to listen to offers. Gudmundsson reportedly lost some £360million in one day when Landsbanki collapsed and with it his 41 per cent holding. Before that he took another hit when XL Holidays, the club's sponsor went into liquidation, losing the club £5million and himself another hefty sum after he had initially tried to prop up the failing company. Some things have gone their ways in recent weeks however. New sponsors SBOBET have reportedly ploughed £2.4million into the club until the end of next season, while the long-running saga over the Carlos Tevez compensation bid looks like being settled out of court for between 10 and £15million after it was revealed that Sheffield United's costing of their relegation had been somewhat overinflated.
Gudmundsson, as ever, has kept his silence over the whole matter, but vice-chairman Asgeir Fridgeirsson, the King of the 'All is well' sentiments that echo around Upton Park even now is suggesting that the club does not need to be sold. "There is a great interest in the club and many interested parties are calling to show interest," said Fridgeirsson, who had insisted just last month that nothing that had affected the chairman's finances could affect the 'firewalled' West Ham. "We are reviewing the asset, looking at what might be the value of the club. It is part of reviewing the assets of Mr Gudmundsson. "Following such a review we will take a decision whether to sell or not. We don't have to sell," he insisted. "It's a process where we are gathering options and information to see what is out there in terms of demand."
What seems to be out there is between five and 10 groups who are interested and who have made tentative inquiries, but none have reached the point of 'due diligence' when they would be able to study the club's books and finances. Leading the way is said to be Indian businessman Anil Ambani, a communications and energy tycoon based in Mumbai, who was quoted as the sixth richest man in the world in 2007 with a personal wealth of some £20billion. He has already been linked with takeovers at Newcastle United and Everton in the Premier League. Dubai-based company Zabeel Investments, who expressed interest in Charlton Athletic earlier in the season, are also rumoured to be ready to table a bid, while former Hammer Tony Cottee has long since had the ambition of putting together a consortium to take over at Upton Park, and this may well be his opportunity. The sum of £250million is undoubtedly too high considering the extenuating circumstances surrounding the club, but it seems that this could be the end of the 'Ice Age' at Upton Park, and if that is the case then the sooner it happens the better for everyone - especially West Ham.
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