WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola is in good spirits and has cited the form of Jack Collison
has one of the many positives
08.12.2008
Gianfranco Zola said his players are fighting fit and chomping at the bit
ahead of tonight's mouth-watering Premier League fixture with Tottenham
Hotspur.
With England international Kieron Dyer looking to take part in a practice
match and his side on a three-match unbeaten run during which they have not
conceded a single goal, Zola was wearing his customary broad smile ahead of
the visit of Spurs.
"Touch wood, it looks like the situation is improving," he said. "We nearly
have everybody back and people are not getting injured the way they used to
be and so that is another thing we are improving. For us, these are very
important things."
Zola is hopeful that his players' improved physical condition will ensure
his squad is in good shape as the season wears on. "When the players are
working well the physios are doing a good job and the fitness coach has
improved their conditions also," he added. "When you are fit and
well-trained, it is very difficult for you to get injured. That is one of
the secrets.
"Plus also the medical department is working together with us very well and
this is improving the situation." One player who has been fit and firing all
season long is midfielder Jack Collison, who burst on to the Premier League
scene by scoring the first senior goal of his career against Everton and
producing impressive performances against Manchester United, Middlesbrough
and Portsmouth.
The West Ham United manager believes the 20-year-old's form is the perfect
example of the intensive work he and his coaches have been doing with the
first-team squad since their arrival in September. As well as Zola himself,
first team coaches Steve Clarke and Kevin Keen and fitness coach Antonio
Pintus have been working closely with Collison and his team-mates to improve
both their technical and physical capabilities.
"Don't take me in the wrong way but when I say I have got a great staff to
work with, I really mean that," said Zola. "I am not just saying that
because they are my staff but because they are really good. "To give an
example how good the training sessions are you can see in Jack Collison -
the player he was before I came here is nowhere near the player he is now.
"His quality of the game has gone up so much and I am very impressed when I
see these things. That gives me the confidence, the belief, the way the
training is very good."
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Green up for Spurs
WHUFC.com
Robert Green is looking forward to the London derby as he bids to keep his
fourth consecutive sheet
08.12.2008
Robert Green has played in some important matches in his career as a
professional footballer.
From East Anglian derbies during his time with Norwich City through to
representing his country, the West Ham United goalkeeper is used to turning
out when the pressure is on. After producing another superb performance to
help the Hammers gain a fine goalless draw at Liverpool last Monday, Green
is relishing the club's next major assignment - a home Barclays Premier
League clash with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur this evening.
"You want to play in big games," the 28-year-old confirmed. "The Liverpool
game was a big game. Every game in the Premier League is a big game but this
is a local derby. It'll be a quality occasion on a Monday night. The crowd
will be electric and the fans will be baying for blood. Hopefully, in a
football sense, we can give them it."
West Ham United and their next opponents have enjoyed a series of titanic
battles at the Boleyn Ground over the past few seasons. In 2005/06, a late
Yossi Benayoun goal denied Martin Jol's side a place in the Champions
League. A season later, Tottenham's Paul Stalteri scored a heart-breaking
added-time winner to send the home side spiralling to a dramatic 4-3 defeat.
Last term, it was Green himself who wrote the headlines, plunging to his
left to keep out former Hammer Jermain Defoe's last-gasp penalty and earn a
point for his side. The 28-year-old, who is expecting similar thrills and
spills this time around, insists he and his team-mates will be fully charged
up for what many supporters consider to be the club's biggest home fixture
of the season.
"It's all about the recognition you give it. I made my debut in a Norwich v
Ipswich game and, in a way, it was all a bit too much for me," Green
admitted. "It's one of those occasions that get to you and you either feel
ten feet or ten inches tall. That's why you're in professional football - I
go out on the pitch and feel ten feet rather than ten inches tall. Hopefully
it'll be a great game and I'm sure all the lads will be up for it."
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Captain's Blog - United for derby day
WHUFC.com
Lucas Neill has reiterated the togetherness in the camp as he looks towards
the visit of Tottenham Hotspur
07.12.2008
Last Monday saw us come home from Liverpool with a great result and a
resilient performance from everyone. After being told by whoever wanted to
tell us that we hadn't kept a clean sheet for ages, we now have three under
our belts in successive games and what a place to get the third.
I think we executed the match perfectly. We had a few scares like you would
expect at somewhere like Anfield but we defended strongly and could have
nicked a goal ourself. If someone had given us 0-0 before the game we would
have all taken that - I think it had been something like ten years or so
since we last managed a point there.
It has also been over 40 years since we won there and we came so close to
matching that result. It has given us another great lift and everyone in the
dressing room is now raring to go against Tottenham on Monday night. It is
the biggest match of the season for our fans and we all know what it means
for us to get a result over our London rivals. We will be going all out to
try and achieve that.
The table is such that three points can move you right up into the top half
of the table so, as well as taking local pride, if we can win this game we
can also look to move up the table.
I welcome the manager, staff and players of Tottenham Hotspur. They as a
team have improved on their form under new manager Harry Redknapp but we
have to be focused and composed in what we are trying to do and get the
right result. Harry, of course, was a former manager here and will get a
tasty reception from our fans for sure but as I said we will just be
focusing on the game in hand.
Everyone remembers the 4-3 result a couple of seasons ago, It was a game
which turned our season around and we went on to achieve what was known as
our 'Great Escape'. I am sure it will be another rousing game but hopefully
with us on the winning side this time. Since I came here to West Ham I have
not been on the winning side against Tottenham yet so hopefully that will
all change.
This week has seen some comments in the papers which were taken from one of
our players, but saw his words totally twisted around. They took quotes from
a player whose first language is not English and have tried to put this in a
way that might put our fans against him. I don't need to mention the
player's name but he, like everyone in the dressing room, is totally
committed to the cause that we are working to at West Ham.
It won't undermine the spirit we have here and as I said the commitment we
have as a team. Football is a funny game - who knows what can happen, but I
wouldn't bet against him having a major influence on a positive outcome for
us in Monday night's game.
Also this week the boys have been out and about on the community front.
Bellars visited a great project in Newham which is being run in conjunction
with our community dept here at the club - the Bengali women's football
scheme. Greeny got to speak at an anti-knife campaign which was held at our
stadium organised by the Metropolitan Police and then half the squad went to
the first of two youth academy Christmas parties.
This is a very important part of the calendar for us and we were delighted
to meet several of our young fans who are the future of this club. From what
we could tell everyone had a good time and enjoyed the party. The second of
these will take place on 21 December and the rest of the squad will visit.
Once again on behalf of all the boys I would like to thank all our fans who
travelled up to Liverpool to support us - they got some reward for it with
the result and performance. Going back to Monday 's game we are looking to
build on the last three results and also get some bragging rights over our
London neighbours.
Enjoy the game.
Lucas Neill
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Ilunga grateful for fan support
WHUFC.com
Herita Ilunga is loving life at West Ham United and would like to stay for
longer if possible
07.12.2008
Herita Ilunga has spoken about his pride at being a West Ham United player
in direct contrast to recent misleading media reports.
The left-back has been a revelation since signing on a season-long loan from
Toulouse and, contrary to what has been claimed in some quarters after an
interview he gave was taken out of context, is focused only on a long-term
stay. "I love being at West Ham," Ilunga said. "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."
The deadline day recruit has not missed a league game since he arrived and
is especially grateful for the backing he has received. He said: "Things
have gone very well for me, better than I had hoped. The fans are great.
They always show their support during the matches, which is a big help for
us. 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."
The manager Gianfranco Zola has also been swift to support his defender, who
was voted the fans player of the month back in October and has been a model
of consistency in training and matches. "I know Ilunga very well," the
manager said. "He's totally committed to what he is doing here and people
took his answers in the wrong way. He is happy to be here and is looking to
sign a contract."
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Manager a mentor for Sears
WHUFC.com
Freddie Sears has a new long-term contract and the confidence to go on and
succeed at West Ham United
06.12.2008
Gianfranco Zola has spoken at length on the eve of Tottenham Hotspur's visit
about Freddie Sears and the way he has taken the young striker under his
wing.
The manager sat the 19-year-old down and shared his own experiences as a
young player coming through behind Diego Maradona at Napoli, when he had to
bide his time after an initial explosion into the first team. "I spoke to
him about my first year in Naples. In the beginning I was in the team more
regularly because Maradona was out. I was playing more regularly, quite
well. Then he came back and I didn't play very much from then.
"I keep saying that has been my most important year because I learned so
much. That's what I told him. Even if he is not playing much right now the
learning process is on and he has to remember that he is still learning
because sometimes at that age people play one or two games and they think 'I
have learned everything, I played well so that is job done'. It is not like
that.
"This is just the beginning. This is the moment where they have to keep the
same attitude because that is the difference, the attitude. Then I was ready
when the moment came. He will be much better than when he first played. That
is what I am aiming for. He is going to have another chance for sure and he
has to be ready for that.
"I know he is going to get his goals. I saw him play in the reserves and he
keeps cracking goals all the time … it's one thing playing for the youth
team and scoring, it's another thing playing for the main team. Sometimes in
the main team you play one or two games and come off so it makes it a bit
more difficult. He will have chance again and I am sure he will do what he
knows to do best and what he does best is score."
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Zola keen to keep defender Ilunga
BBC.co.uk
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is hoping to sign Herita Ilunga on a permanent
deal despite the defender reportedly describing the club as a "second-rate".
The 26-year-old Congolese defender is currently on loan from French side
Toulouse for the season. "He is totally committed to what he is doing here
and his answers were taken in the wrong way," said Zola. "He's happy to be
here and is looking to sign a contract with the club. He is a player I will
try to sign." Ilunga has made 12 appearances in the Premier League for the
Hammers since arriving at the start of September. Meanwhile, Zola also
insisted the club will not have to sell striker Dean Ashton or defender
Matthew Upson in the January transfer window. "Ashton and Upson are among
the best players we have," added Zola. "This club wants to progress so we
are not going to sell our best players. "This is what I am told by the club
and I trust the club 100%."
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West Ham v Tottenham
PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Monday, 8 December Kick-off: 2000 GMT
Coverage: Full commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live and updates on BBC Sport
website
BBC.co.uk
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
West Ham midfielder Lee Bowyer is attempting to shake off a knock ahead of
Monday's London derby. Striker Dean Ashton is still out with an ankle
injury.
Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric will have his groin injury assessed and
Ledley King could return if he shakes off a knee problem. Jermaine Jenas is
fit following a toe injury but defender Alan Hutton (foot) and Giovani dos
Santos (ankle) are out of action.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
News conference - West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola: "It's a vital game, this is very important
for us, for the meaning for supporters and the players. "Turning the corner
might be after this match so we need to be focused and carry on doing what
we are doing. I have a good record against Spurs and hopefully it will be
the same. "We will see, we are going through a good spell here and we are
confident. We were conceding too much and we tried to improve it from the
back and make us better defensively."
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp: News conference - Spurs boss harry Redknapp West
Ham is always a tough place to go. Monday night at Upton Park under lights
means a great atmosphere and great support. "It's games galore. We're
involved in too many competitions in all honesty. We've got the FA Cup to
come too. "You need a squad and I feel this squad is a little bit short. If
we could get one or two loans for people who can play at this level to
thicken the squad up then that would be ideal."
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
West Ham (from): Green, Neill, Collins, Upson, Ilunga, Faubert, Boa Morte,
Parker, Mullins, Behrami, Bellamy, Cole, Noble, Lastuvka, Tristan,
Davenport, Collison, Di Michele, Bowyer.
Tottenham (from): Gomes, Cesar, Alnwick, Bale, Gunter, Dawson, Assou-Ekotto,
Woodgate, King, Corluka, Zokora, Bentley, Huddlestone, Jenas, O'Hara,
Bostock, Lennon, Jenas, Boateng, Bent, Campbell, Pavlyuchenko, Modric.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Utd v Tottenham: match preview
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 8th December 2008
By: Preview Percy
Another Monday and another 8pm kick-off under the lights for the visit of
Tottenham Hotspur.
They're a strange bunch, Spurs fans, capable sometimes of amazing feats of
self-delusion. I suppose in an infinite, maybe even multi-dimensional
universe there is a planet upon which shell suits and dandruff, which appear
to be some sort of uniform on matchdays at White Hart Lane, are deemed to be
socially acceptable, if not actually fashionable. However even Dr Who
wouldn't go as far as to say that there is a parallel universe in which
Tottenham really are on a par with the likes of Man Utd & Chelsea. This is a
shame really because most Spurs fans I get to meet seem obsessed with two
things: the size of their club and getting rid of their last copy of the
"Big Issue".
It's been a far from dull season in N17. The hilarious start that saw them
bumping along the bottom of the table was, of course, fun for everyone while
it lasted. However, the sacking of Ramos and subsequent installation of
Bournemouth restaurant proprietor H. Redknapp into the managerial hot seat
have turned the results around in recent weeks and they currently lie three
places and three points beneath us in 16th place and the other night Darren
Bent's flukey miss-hit effort being just enough to get them past Watford
into the League Cup Semi-Finals. Their last few results in the league have
been a bit mixed however. Last weekend they were on the end of a 1-0 home
defeat to Everton, whilst a couple of weeks previously they had been beaten
by the epitome of averageness that is Fulham.
In between they did beat Blackburn, though the match was less notable for
the result than for the ironic cheers that accompanied every successful
gather by the error-prone Gomes. These were accompanied by unheard-of praise
for the opposition 'keeper, the equally unreliable Paul Robinson who, in the
aforementioned parallel universe inhabited by Spurs fans is worthy of the
title "England's no.1". Redknapp expressed disappointment at the fans'
treatment of Gomes, though his own comments a few weeks earlier that
"there's no use me moaning at him – I haven't got anyone else" were hardly
likely to act as much of a confidence booster.
True or not, Gomes is likely to start on Monday night and I'm sure he'll get
a sympathetic reception from all sides. Against Blackburn, Gomes's back four
was comprised of Corluka, Woodgate, King and Assou-Ekoto. This is a reversal
from the previous regime's original policy of resting Ledley King for League
matches and playing him in the League & UEFA Cups. King is reportedly
struggling with a knee problem and Dawson may deputise. Woodgate of course
has had an eventful career both on and off the pitch. If both are fit and
selected Woodgate will be reunited with Lee Bowyer with whom he faced a
trial for assault a few years back. Bowyer was cleared of all charges whilst
Woodgate received 100 hours of community service for the lesser offence of
affray. On a more light-hearted note, Woodgate recently commented publicly
that Spurs' start to the season was worse than that he had experienced with
Leeds when they were relegated – which was a strange comment really, given
that he'd left for Newcastle a good 16 months beforehand. The defence also
includes Gareth Bale who is useful from dead ball situations.
Spurs' midfield against Everton missed the influence of Croatian midfielder
Modric and he is still rated "very doubtful" for this one following a thigh
muscle strain. The form player over the past couple of weeks has been Aaron
Lennon, though it should be pointed out that this form mainly consisted of
giving a ten-man Blackburn the runaround. Nevertheless on his day he can be
a tricky one. Former Derby youngster Tom Huddlestone and David "Too Tired
For England" Bentley are also likely starters as is Didier Zokora, who
arrived in 2006 when Spurs spent the money paid by Man Utd in rescuing
Michael Carrick from the downturn in his career that took him to White Hart
Lane.
It is up front where Spurs struggled at the start of the season.
Pavlyuchenko is now showing signs of settling in to English football after a
quiet start but it will take a collapse in the value of sterling of
Zimbabwean proportions – possibly in one of those parallel universes - to
convince me that Darren Bent is worth £16,000,000. Spurs' problems really
boiled down to the fact that they let go Defoe, Keane and Berbatov in a few
months without really replacing them.
Berbatov's transfer was another that blatantly broke all the rules and those
watching transfer deadline day unravel on the box would have been bemused by
the pictures of Berbatov talking to Man Utd officials at the same time as
statements from Spurs were issued denying that any club had been given
permission to speak with the player. Indeed Spurs publicly announced that a
bid for the player had been accepted by Man City – at the precise time that
the player was having an unauthorised medical on the other side of town. As
we saw with the Keane transfer, Spurs' principles can be bought. Whilst
Liverpool's hush money came in the form of a "charitable donation", Man
Utd's came in the form of a season-long loan of striker Frazier Campbell,
which is also a charitable donation. Bent and Pavlyuchenko are likely
starters but don't be surprised to see Campbell come on at some stage.
As for us, well the BBC have finally sorted themselves out and stopped
listing the injured and the "actually at another club at the moment" as
being available for selection. Apart from Ashton (injured) and Gabbidon
(disappeared into one of those parallel universes), it would appear that we
have a full-ish squad to select from. I'm not expecting much in the way of
changes though and the likes of Mark Noble may have to wait another week
before returning to the starting line-up (which is a shame in a way given
that he'd probably be more "up for" this one than any other player in the
squad).
The defence has shown hitherto unknown levels of backbone in recent weeks
and the Upson-Collins partnership has looked a decent one. However, part of
me is urging caution in forecasting a home win for this one. West Ham
history is littered with a good results against decent opposition being
followed by rubbish results against someone not as good and a sneaky little
voice is worrying me that this might be the case again. On the other hand,
confidence will be at a decent level following last Monday's point up at
Anfield – a point that might have been three but for the usual re-writing of
the offside law that affects away teams in that part of the world. So, with
the words of caution, ringing in my ears, I'll go for a 2-1 win with fingers
crossed.
Enjoy the game!
Last Season: drew 1-1 – the right result despite ref Riley's attempts to
give the game to Spurs with a late penalty. Green saved it to ensure justice
was done.
Danger Man: Lennon can turn games if he's allowed to run at defences.
Look out for: A strange aroma of medicated shampoo, body odour and spot
cream around the lower tier of the Centenary stand.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Djemba-Djemba in Hammers claim
African keen on Prem return
By Giscard Gourizro Last updated: 8th December 2008
SSN
Former Manchester United man Eric Djemba-Djemba claims West Ham are
interested in bringing him back to England. The Cameroon midfielder endured
a difficult time in England, failing to meet expectations at Manchester
United and Aston Villa. Djemba-Djemba arrived at Manchester United in the
summer of 2003 in a £3.5million deal from Nantes with a big reputation, but
he failed to hit the heights at Old Trafford. He moved onto Aston Villa in
2005, but after failing to establish himself in the first-team he had his
contract terminated after two years at Villa Park. Djemba-Djemba has got his
career back on track at Danish side Odense and reports suggest West Ham are
keeping tabs on him. The 27-year-old admits he would be interested in a move
back to England as he feels he has a point to prove.
"I am having a good season. I lost my way a bit when I signed for Manchester
United," Djemba-Djemba told skysports.com. "However, I am a good player, you
don't play alongside Roy Keane and Paul Scholes if you are a bad player. "I
heard West Ham is interested and that means I am having a good season. "I
have unfinished business with the Premier League, so who knows? "It would be
good to go back there and prove myself."
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Ilunga wants permanent deal
Hammers' on-loan defender has sights set on permanent deal
By Richard Bailey Last updated: 8th December 2008
SSN
West Ham United defender Herita Ilunga has denied that he wants to leave the
club insisting that he wants to sign a permanent deal. Ilunga, who is on a
season-long loan from Toulouse, was quoted as describing West Ham as a
'second-rate' club but the 26-year-old has since said he meant the Hammers
were a 'second-level' club.
The Congo international has made 12 Premier League appearances for
Gianfranco Zola's team this season and is set to keep his place for the
clash with Tottenham at Upton Park on Monday. Zola seems to have forgiven
his left-back for his misinterpretation and admits that he is keen to sign
the defender on a permanent deal. He told the Evening Standard: "He did not
mean it in that way. I know Herita wants to sign a contract and I want to
try and sign him."
Ilunga backed up his manager's claims by saying: "I am very happy at West
Ham and I want to stay here for some time." Zola again denied that he would
be forced to sell his star players in the January transfer window despite
owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson's financial problems in Iceland. He added: "We
are not going to sell our best players. This club wants to progress. This is
what I have been told and I have complete faith in this club."
Zola also backed under-fire Blackburn manager Paul Ince, insisting that
clubs needed to show more patience with their managers. The former Chelsea
striker understands what Ince and former Sunderland boss Roy Keane went
through after seeing his Hammers side go six league games without a win. But
Zola also knows how quick the situation can turn around with his team on a
three-game unbeaten run in the league and keeping three cleans sheets along
the way. He said: "In football in this country it is very difficult to set
up a long-term project. It can be very difficult for managers if it doesn't
happen from day one. "You need to establish your ideas. It is always a game
after all and people need to take it like that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Tottenham preview
Redknapp faces his former charges in an intriguing capital clash
Last updated: 8th December 2008
SSN.
PREDICTIONS:
Skysports.com prediction: 1-1
SKY BET odds: West Ham 13/8, Draw 12/5, Spurs 13/8
One to Watch: Roman Pavlyuchenko
Harry Redknapp returns to his old stomping ground on Monday as Tottenham
travel to West Ham. The Spurs boss spent seven years in charge of the
Hammers between 1994 and 2001, but there will be no room for sentiment when
he steps into the away dugout at Upton Park. Since leaving the East End,
Redknapp boasts a 100 per cent record against his former charges at the
Boleyn Ground - securing three away successes with Portsmouth. Gianfranco
Zola has West Ham looking more resilient of late, though, leading the club
on a three-match unbeaten run. The Italian will be concerned at seeing his
troops take only one victory from their last nine Premier League fixtures,
but three consecutive clean sheets suggests the Hammers have a solid base on
which to work. Spurs have seen Redknapp's honeymoon period come to an abrupt
end in recent weeks, losing two of their last three. However, the White Hart
Lane chief has led his new side to eight wins in 11 outings and the North
London outfit are unbeaten in their last four meetings with the Hammers.
West Ham could be boosted by the return of Lee Bowyer in time for the
capital clash. The midfielder is hoping to have shaken off a slight knock in
time to feature in the derby contest. Kieron Dyer is still some way off a
first-team return but the England international will step up his recovery
from a broken leg by turning out in a friendly next week. Dean Ashton
remains sidelined with an ankle injury, meaning Craig Bellamy and Carlton
Cole will be charged with spearheading Zola's attack.
For the visitors, Luka Modric faces a late fitness test ahead of the game.
The Croatian playmaker is nursing a groin injury but will be given as long
as possible to make the grade. Skipper Ledley King could be handed a return
to action should his knee be deemed strong enough to cope with the rigours
of a feisty all-London encounter.
Jermaine Jenas is back in contention after suffering with a toe problem, but
Alan Hutton (foot) and Giovani dos Santos (ankle) definitely miss out.
Possible starting XIs
West Ham: Green, Neill, Collins, Upson, Ilunga, Faubert, Parker, Mullins,
Behrami, Bellamy, Cole.
Tottenham: Gomes, Corluka, Woodgate, King, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon, Zokora,
Jenas, Bentley, Bent, Pavlyuchenko.
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Zola praises Clarke
Hammers boss sings assistants praises over defensive displays
By Richard Bailey Last updated: 7th December 2008
SSN
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola believes that no matter who he signs in
January no-one can eclipse the signing of his assistant Steve Clarke. Clarke
left his post as assistant manager at Chelsea, where he spent eleven years
as a player, to become Zola's right hand man when he took over from Alan
Curbishley in September.
After a run which saw them go six league games without a win Zola has seen
his team bounce back to go three league games unbeaten, keeping three clean
sheets in the process. Zola holds Clarke responsible after his work with the
Hammers' back four, but the Italian is conscious that he may lose his number
two in the future.
He said: "Talking to me about Steve Clarke is like talking to me about my
father. He's such an important person for me, which is why I said since the
day I took the job that I wanted him with me. "I am a little worried about
losing him. But my worries are completely overcome by the pleasure of seeing
him going his way and having the success he deserves. "I know one day he'll
go into management and I'll be very sad. But I am going to be happy knowing
he can do a great job. I would say he is my best signing."
Clarke was assistant to Jose Mourinho during his time at Chelsea and Zola
admits that the pair still speak to one another. He added: "They keep
talking to each other. But I don't know if he gets tips from Mourinho. He
knows a lot about the game and has given me his own tips." Another important
signing for the former Chelsea striker has been the appointment of Nikos
Tzouroudis as head of the medical team. Tzouroudis's arrival has coincided
with the fact that most of Zola's squad have avoided injury, something which
cannot be said of Curbishley's time at the club. "We nearly have everybody
back, so people aren't getting injured like they used to. It's another thing
we're improving on and it's very important. "The players are working well,
and the physios are doing a good job. When you are fit and well trained,
it's very difficult for you to get injured."
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Bowyer bound for Birmingham as McLeish believes they'll be no protests this
time
By Graham Hill
Last updated at 2:12 PM on 08th December 2008
Daily Mail
Birmingham City believe any bid to sign Lee Bowyer from West Ham next month
will be free of the concerns that surrounded the club's last attempt to
bring him to St Andrew's. Manager Alex McLeish is thought to be preparing a
£1million bid for Bowyer when the transfer window opens. But when former
manager Steve Bruce tried to sign him in 2005 from Newcastle, objections
were raised about Bowyer by Birmingham supporters who started an internet
petition to persuade the club to boycott the deal because of his character.
Birmingham boss Alex McLeish is thought to be preparing a £1 million bid for
Lee Bowyer when the transfer window opens
Although Bowyer had been acquitted of causing grievous bodily harm with
intent and affray following an incident in Leeds in January 2000, in which
an Asian student suffered severe injuries, the midfielder had earlier been
accused of an alleged racist incident in a McDonald's restaurant in London.
Bowyer rejected Birmingham, despite another outcry from fans in favour of
the deal, with club officials claiming the player was concerned for his
personal safety due to the city's large ethnic population. But it is
believed that he is now one of a number of players McLeish has targeted to
strengthen the club's push for promotion back to the Premier League.
And it is felt unlikely that the doubts that existed before would resurface:
'Over the past few years Bowyer has been a consummate professional,' said
one source.
The player's wages could be an issue but financially-troubled West Ham may
be keen to do a deal.
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Redknapp the joker has turned Tottenham round but Zola hopes to have the
last laugh
By Ken Dyer
Last updated at 11:12 AM on 08th December 2008
Daily Mail
Harry Redknapp was in joking mood before tonight's derby at West Ham, but
Gianfranco Zola will still be hoping to have the last laugh. Journalists
fell about as he reminisced on his eight seasons as West Ham manager,
recalling the time when, in one pre-season friendly, he invited a supporter
who was especially damning of striker Lee Chapman, to put the boots on and
prove he was as good at playing as he was with his criticism. The fan duly
came on, scored, and as he trotted off, called to Redknapp: 'See Harry, I
told you I was better than that effing Chapman.'
Tottenham coach Clive Allen has, like the rest of us, been royally
entertained over the years by that knockabout facet of Redknapp's character
which so endears him to everyone but there is another side to the man which
has impressed the Spurs first-team coach even more. Allen was at White Hart
Lane to watch things unravel under Redknapp's predecessor, Juande Ramos, and
is now part of the reconsruction process. He has seen at close hand the way
Redknapp pulls everyone together, repairs the fractures within the camp and
heals the rifts. 'One of the biggest things with Harry is communication,'
said the man who played at both Spurs and West Ham in his time. 'Harry came
in with a passion and he's been a breath of fresh air. Hard times: Clive
Allen said language difficulties caused problems for former Tottenham boss
Juande Ramos It was difficult with Juande because, with the language
difficulties, he couldn't be as precise as he wanted to be. 'Harry, though,
talks to everyone, the gardener, the lady who does the laundry, everyone.
'He is constantly asking for input from his coaches, Joe Jordan, Kevin Bond
and myself included.
'He didn't have any pre-conceived ideas when he came. He listens to
everyone, takes it all in but then makes the final decisions. 'He loves a
laugh and a joke but that doesn't mean he's not a serious football man. He
demands a lot of the players. He expects a good work ethic from them and he
says to them 'show me what you can do'.'
Tonight's match is special for Redknapp as he goes back to the club in the
East End of London which gave him his big chance, first as a teenage player
and then, almost three decades later, as a manager. Until now he has been
given a suitably warm welcome back by the Upton Park crowd and if the
reception is as cordial tonight, when he returns as Spurs manager, then he
will know he surely holds a special place in their hearts. 'This is a big
game for Harry,' said Allen. 'There is no doubt about the depth of feeling
he has for West Ham, it was part of his life for so long, both as a player
and then in management. 'I know what he means when he talks about West Ham,
the supporters and the history of the club. I sampled it all when I was
there as a player. 'He's in charge at Tottenham now,though, and he is
dedicated to that cause. He knows the challenge is still a huge one. We were
in a dreadful position when he took over. We're far healthier now but
there's still a great deal of work to be done. 'West Ham also look like
they are improving. They, too, had a difficult spell recently but, from what
I saw, they played really well up at Liverpool. 'They look a solid group of
players and Gianfranco Zola seems to be getting the response he wants from
them.'
Redknapp rested several key players for last week's Carling Cup
quarter-final at Watford but they should all be back tonight while Croatian
Luka Modric is back in training and could also feature. 'The games are
coming thick and fast for us at the moment,' said Allen. 'Our squad at the
moment is not the biggest and that is a concern for Harry. 'We want to be
involved in every competition, though, so we will have to manage the
situation as best we can.' West Ham are another improving side. The
goalless draw at Liverpool last Monday means they have kept a clean sheet in
their last three matches under Zola, who is as new to management as Redknapp
is experienced. 'West Ham have had some problems off the pitch but it's
still a big club which has produced some of the finest players in English
football,' he said. For Redknapp, however, this match is a serious business
so fans are well advised, at least tonight, to leave their football boots
behind.
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Misunderstood Ilunga wants to stay at West Ham as boss Zola defends him over
'second-rate club' storm
By Ken Dyer
Last updated at 12:06 PM on 08th December 2008
Daily Mail
West Ham defender Herita Ilunga has denied reports that he wants to leave
the club and said instead that he wants to sign a permanent deal. Ilunga, on
a season-long loan from Toulouse, was quoted as saying that West Ham were a
'second rate' club. Apparently though, what the Congo international defender
actually said was that West Ham were a 'second level' club. West Ham manager
Gianfranco Zola said: 'He did not mean it in that way. I know Herita wants
to sign a contract and I want to try and sign him.' Ilunga said: 'I am very
happy at West Ham and I want to stay here for some time.' The left-back is
certain to keep his place for tonight's clash against Tottenham. Matthew
Etherington could be back in contention after recovering from illness but
Lee Bowyer is again out with a virus. Zola also took the opportunity to deny
rumours that the Upton Park club, who are up for sale following owner
Bjorgolfur Gumundsson's financial problems in Iceland, will be forced to
sell key players next month. England defender Matthew Upson and goalkeeper
Robert Green are just two players said to be available for transfer but Zola
said: 'We are not going to sell our best players. 'This club wants to
progress. This is what I have been told and I have complete faith in this
club.' Zola also believes that, following the departure of Roy Keane from
Sunderland and the speculation surrounding Blackburn boss Paul Ince, clubs
need to be more patient. 'In football in this country it is very difficult
to set up a long-term project,' he said. 'It can be very difficult for
managers if it doesn't happen from day one. 'You need to establish your
ideas. It is always a game after all and people need to take it like that.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Gianfranco Zola fears losing his 'best signing' Steve Clarke
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola has hailed his assistant Steve Clarke as
"the best signing he ever made", but fears he will soon be lured into
becoming a manager elsewhere.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Emily Benammar
Last Updated: 11:48AM GMT 08 Dec 2008
Clarke was top of Zola's wish list when he accepted the job at West Ham, and
his winning mentality has had a strong influence on the players who have, of
late, turned the club's fate around. Jose Mourinho's former right-hand man
has never made any secret of his desire to coach in his own right, and,
though sad at the prospect of losing him, Zola has said he will support any
decision Clarke makes. "I said since the day I took the job that I wanted
him with me. He's such an important person for me which is why I am a little
bit worried about losing him," Zola said. "Talking to me about Steve Clarke
is like talking to me about my father. "I know one day he'll go into
management and I'll be very sad. But I am going to be happy knowing he can
do a great job. I would say he is my best signing."
Zola went on to praise the work Clarke has done with the club's fitness
coaches and medical team, who have managed to get Kieron Dyer back to
fitness - Dean Ashton remains the only long-term worry. Admitting that
Clarke is the reason that his players understand the Premier League so well,
Zola also said that despite his fears he looks forward to seeing his No 2
rewarded with everything he deserves. "I am a little bit worried about
losing him," he said. "But my worries are completely overcome by the
pleasure of seeing him going his way and having the success he deserves."
Clarke has enjoyed a prolific career. He was an FA Cup, League Cup and
European Cup Winners Cup winner during his time as a Chelsea player. He then
started his coaching career, working alongside Ruud Gullit, after which he
joined up with Mourinho with whom he won two Premier League titles, an FA
Cup and two League Cups.
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Ilunga levels with Zola after getting lost in translation
Ken Dyer
Evening Standard
West Ham defender Herita Ilunga today denied reports that he wants to leave
the club and said instead that he wants to sign a permanent deal, writes Ken
Dyer.
Ilunga, on a season-long loan from Toulouse, was quoted as saying that West
Ham were a "second rate" club. Apparently though, what the Congo
international defender actually said was that West Ham were a "second level"
club. West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola said: "He did not mean it in that
way. I know Herita wants to sign a contract and I want to try and sign him."
Ilunga said: "I am very happy at West Ham and I want to stay here for some
time."
The left-back is certain to keep his place for tonight's clash against
Tottenham. Matthew Etherington could be back in contention after recovering
from illness but Lee Bowyer is again out with a virus. Zola also took the
opportunity today to deny rumours that the Upton Park club, who are up for
sale following owner Bjorgolfur Gumundsson's financial problems in Iceland,
will be forced to sell key players next month. England defender Matthew
Upson and goalkeeper Robert Green are just two players said to be available
for transfer but Zola said: "We are not going to sell our best players. This
club wants to progress. This is what I have been told and I have complete
faith in this club."
Zola also believes that, following the departure of Roy Keane from
Sunderland and the speculation surrounding Blackburn boss Paul Ince, clubs
need to be more patient. "In football in this country it is very difficult
to set up a long-term project," he said. "It can be very difficult for
managers if it doesn't happen from day one.
"You need to establish your ideas. It is always a game after all and people
need to take it like that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham seek loan deal for Fiorentina striker Pazzini
08.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United are chasing Fiorentina striker Giampaolo Pazzini. Gazzetta
dello Sport says with Pazzini struggling to find a place in coach Cesare
Prandelli's first team, West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is ready to pounce.
Zola has worked with Pazzini in the Italy U21 setup and is exploring the
prospect of a January loan deal for the talented striker.
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Tottenham striker Bent happy he rejected West Ham
08.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Tottenham striker Darren Bent has no regrets snubbing a move to West Ham
United. "A lot of people have asked me whether I should have chosen West Ham
after what happened to me last season. But I have always felt I wanted to do
well at Tottenham," said Bent. "Now I can show people what I'm about."
Bent's been the main beneficiary of the Harry Redknapp regime at Tottenham
following the departure of Juande Ramos. His confidence is back, and with it
the scoring ability that made him such a sought after commodity. Bent, who
has also regained his place in the England squad, said: "The competition for
places is big at Tottenham, but at a club like this you are going to have
the best players. "You are not going to have it harder than I did last year
with Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe!"
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Clarke is my best signing, says Hammers boss
2:32pm Monday 8th December 2008
Guardian Series
WEST Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has described Steve Clarke as his best signing
at Upton Park, and is bracing himself for offers to tempt his assistant into
management. Clarke has attempted to bring the winning mentality of Chelsea
to help Zola's start as a manager in the Premier League — and the Hammers
are starting to turn the corner after a tricky start. They face Tottenham
tonight on the back of three clean sheets, which Zola feels is reward for
his and Clarke's work. "Talking to me about Steve Clarke is like talking to
me about my father," said Zola. "He's such an important person for me —
which is why I said since the day I took the job that I wanted him with me.
"I am a little bit worried about losing him. But my worries are completely
overcome by the pleasure of seeing him going his way and having the success
he deserves. "I know one day he'll go into management and I'll be very sad.
But I am going to be happy knowing he can do a great job. I would say he is
my best signing."
Clarke was assistant to Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge, and Zola added:
"They keep talking to each other. But I don't know if he gets tips from
Mourinho. He knows a lot about the game and has given me his own tips."
Another important Hammers arrival has been Nikos Tzouroudis as head of the
medical team, an apparent result being players staying fit — unlike during
Alan Curbishley's regime. Tzouroudis' appointment caused controversy at the
start of the season because he is not registered with the General Medical
Council (GMC) as required by the Football Association, so cannot sit on the
bench during match days. "We nearly have everybody back, so people aren't
getting injured like they used to," said Zola. "It's another thing we're
improving and it's very important. "The players are working well, and the
physios are doing a good job. When you are fit and well trained, it's very
difficult for you to get injured."
Lee Bowyer is the only slight doubt for the Spurs clash, while Kieron Dyer
will step up his return with a friendly this week — and Dean Ashton is due
back next month.
"Dean is in rehabilitation and seeing his own physio," Zola reported. "I
know he is doing very well but I don't how long he is out." Ex-Irons boss
Harry Redknapp returns to Upton Park tonight as Spurs manage and Zola said:
"I think the fans will give him a good reception. He will get what he
deserves. "It's a very important game for this club, but people have to
respect what others have done for the club before."
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Spurs boss wants warm reception at Upton Park
2:34pm Monday 8th December 2008
Guardian Series
TOTTENHAM boss Harry Redknapp is hoping for a warm reception from West Ham
supporters when he returns to Upton Park tonight. Redknapp was Hammers boss
for seven years, bringing the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Joe Cole through
the ranks and signing Paolo di Canio — but is unsure how fans will react now
he is with bitter rivals Spurs. "I've been back with Portsmouth a couple of
times and got a fantastic reception," said Redknapp. "I would hate that to
change because the club will always be very close to my heart. "I went there
at 15 years of age and it's a very special football club, it always will be.
"I've got so many friends who are West Ham supporters, I've got loads of
memories about going there at 15, growing up there and going back to manage
them. It's a great club."
Aside from Redknapp being in the spotlight, the match is important for Spurs
to climb towards mid-table after a positive start under their new manager.
"It's a very important game," Redknapp said. "We are where we are in the
league and that is our main priority. "West Ham is always a tough place to
go. Monday night at Upton Park under lights means a great atmosphere and
great support."
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West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green spends £10k on Alan Partridge artwork
The Mirror
By Steve Anglesey 8/12/2008
West Ham keeper Robert Green is a keen student of fine art and chums claim
he recently spent in excess of £10,000 on a single painting.
But the Tate Gallery is unlikely to want to take it on loan - it's of
Norwich boy Green's local hero Alan Partridge.
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Ilunga keen to extend Hammers stay
Mon 08 Dec, 01:15 PM
Yahooo.com
On-loan West Ham defender Herita Ilunga has clarified his recent comments
about the club and revealed his desire to sign on full-time.Ilunga, who is
on a season-long loan from Toulouse, was quoted as describing West Ham as a
'second rate' club but the 26-year-old has since said claimed he meant the
Hammers were a 'second level' club. Ilunga told the Evening Standard: "I am
very happy at West Ham and I want to stay here for some time."
And manager Gianfranco Zola added: "I know Herita wants to sign a contract
and I want to try and sign him." Ilunga was last week quoted in The Sun as
saying: "Without being derogatory, West Ham are a second-rate club. "Let's
not kid ourselves - we are not an Arsenal, Manchester United or Chelsea.
"Once I have proved myself in a team such this, I can hope to make the step
up to another club. "I am keen to continue my adventure in England."
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