Carr on young trio
WHUFC.com
Over the next three days Tony Carr shares his thoughts on his three latest Academy graduates
26.03.2009
When Josh Payne came on as a 90th minute substitute at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday, he became the eighth West Ham United Academy graduate to make a first-team appearance this season.
Payne's debut followed hot on the heels of Junior Stanislas', who had made his bow for the Hammers in the previous match against West Bromwich Albion. Fellow teenager Bondz N'Gala provided the defensive cover on the bench at Ewood Park and will no doubt be hoping to follow in the footsteps of the pair by tasting first-team football for the first time in the near future.
It has been another fruitful season for the famed Academy's production line of talent and over the next three days Academy director Tony Carr, who has overseen the trio's development since they joined West Ham, shares his thoughts on the latest youngsters to have made the breakthrough to Gianfranco Zola's first-team plans
First up is 19-year-old England Under-19 international Junior Stanislas.
Junior Stanislas
"Junior came to us when he was about ten-years-old. He's a south London lad and used to come through the Blackwell Tunnel on a daily basis. He's worked hard and come up through the ranks and has got his opportunity this year," Carr explains.
"He had a spell at Southend earlier this season and equipped himself very well there. He's come back now and is training well with the first-team squad and with the situation where Gianfranco has a few injuries and suspensions, these young players are getting their opportunity.
"Junior can play wide left or right and he can also play in the hole, but I'm sure he'll play in the right or left-hand side. He's a good crosser of the ball, has got good close control skills, has an eye for a pass and it has been known for him to bend in a free-kick or two. Technically, he's a good player and now needs to get used to pace and demands of the Premier League - which is a tough call - but the more experienced these players become the better they get.
"Like all these things it is a very slow process. You don't come in one day and all of a sudden there's a shining light there. It becomes a gradual process of playing and training, trying to take things on board and trying to stretch the players in terms of the teams they play in. If they are a 14-year-old you want to see whether they can play with the Under-15s and so on.
"The boys come to me at 16 or 18 on a full-time basis and it's a matter of getting youth team games under their belt,s getting into the reserves, catching people's eyes and taking the opportunity when it comes and that's what these young lads are doing now. It's not fail proof system; it's certainly one that is down to them and their ability."
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Spector glad to be back
WHUFC.com
Defender Jonathan Spector is eager to make up for lost time with the United States national team
26.03.2009
Jonathan Spector is eager to make up for lost time and make his mark for the United States national team.
The versatile West Ham United defender, who turned 23 on 1 March, suffered a double injury heartbreak that ruled him out of the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany and last year's Olympic Games in Beijing.
Having returned after six months out with a torn labrum - the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the hip joint - Spector is back in the United States squad for Saturday's 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier against El Salvador in Miami, and next Wednesday's visit of Trinidad and Tobago to Nashville.
Having missed the two biggest international tournaments of his career so far - Spector was ruled out of the last World Cup finals with a shoulder problem - the player is delighted to be back in Bob Bradley's squad.
"It's definitely great to be back with the team. Last time I was in I had a hip problem and the US team physician diagnosed it. I couldn't be happier to be back playing, first of all, and then obviously being back with the national team. It's always an honour to be called upon to represent my country so I'm thrilled to be back and part of the team."
Spector, who hails from the northern Chicago suburb of Arlington Heights, hopes to add to the 12 caps he has earned on Saturday, when the Americans will hope to build on the 2-0 victory they scored over Mexico in their opening match of the fourth round of CONCACAF qualifying against surprise package El Salvador.
The player, who has made six first-team appearances for West Ham since his return from injury in December, is also targeting a place in Bradley's squad for both next summer's World Cup finals and the FIFA Confederations Cup, which is also being held in South Africa in June.
"I feel like I'm at 100 per cent. I know I've been out for an extended period but I've been working hard to get back to where I am now. I've played nearly two full games for West Ham and have come on in a number of other games and, as far as playing day-in, day-out is concerned, I'm feeling pretty comfortable. Obviously there's always room for improvement, but I'm happy with where I'm at.
"First and foremost team success and pushing for qualification for the World Cup in South Africa. We've also got the Confederations Cup coming up this summer so I'd love to be involved in that. I've been a bit unlucky in terms of injuries coming at the wrong times. Hopefully I can be a bit luckier this time around and work my way into getting a number of appearances for the US team."
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Behrami feeling bright
WHUFC.com
Valon Behrami is looking to the future as he looks forward to working his way back to fitness
26.03.2009
Valon Behrami has pledged to continue working hard throughout the summer months, long after this season has ended, as he begins to plan his return to first-team action.
The 23-year-old midfielder is sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which he suffered in the 1-0 win over Manchester City last month. After undergoing successful keyhole surgery, Behrami is now looking forward to starting light rehabilitation work in the next weeks with medical staff at Chadwell Heath.
As well as looking forward with optimism, Behrami was keen to take time out to thank the West Ham United fans for the support they have given him since he has been on the sidelines and to explain how touched he was by the response of the Boleyn Ground crowd when he was stretchered off the pitch. "I was told afterwards that our fans were clapping for me when I was carried off," Behrami said. "At that time, I wasn't aware of this because of the injury! I wish they were clapping for me for a different reason! But hearing that just makes me know even more how special this club is and the people around it. "I know with this support I can do my rehab work even better. It is always a pleasure to see and hear the West Ham fans, they have been fantastic to me since I arrived and I want them to know I want to come back stronger and give my all for the team when I can."
While no longer being able to play his part on the pitch this season, Behrami will be adding his support from the stands with the fans as the team continue to work towards a possible UEFA Europa League place for next season. "I will be watching as many games as this injury will allow me to. It will be frustrating to have to watch and not be able to play, but I will be doing my best to support the team in every match. The team is doing well and there is no reason why we can't keep getting the results and finish the season in a good place. "I hope that they [the fans] will continue to support the team as they play the rest of the games, this is very important for all of us, to have their backing. Here at West Ham, it is not about the individual, it's about the team."
Behrami explained that being out with such an injury has taken a bit of time to adapt to. He said: "I have been lucky because I have not been out with an injury like this before. This season I have played nearly all the games and you look to keep going like that and hope that if you have an injury, it doesn't keep you out for long. But now I am getting my head around a different routine and starting my rehab work."
The Swiss international believes he is in the best hands possible, led by West Ham's head of rehabilitation, Giorgio Gasparini. Under his guidance, Behrami will be doing work to strengthen his knee following the operation. "I am very happy that I have the best people around me to help me," he said. "I have people like Giorgio, who is one of the very best in his field, and we also have other good staff and it's important for me to have this. "At the start I will be doing things to get the circulation going again around the knee and building up the reflexes and movement. There are difficult weeks ahead but as I said, I have the right people around me and I am very happy about that."
Off the field, Behrami has a welcome distraction as he recently became a father for the first time, with the birth of his baby daughter a month ago. "My partner and baby are at home with me here in England and yes, I can go home and perhaps forget the injury a little as she will keep us busy," he joked. Having been here eight months since his arrival from Lazio in July last year, Behrami says he now feels completely at home at the club, which gives him further reason to work hard and get back in action.
"I feel this is my home now. When I arrived here, most of the team were away because they were on a pre-season tour, but when they returned, I settled in with them all very quickly and it has gone from there really. "I like the mentality here, the club and the people. I have taken on all the advice about how much time it will take for me to get back. I won't rush anything as I want to come back stronger and give much more to the team again."
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Mehmet features for Turkey
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Deniz Mehmet played for Turkey in their Under-17 draw with Wales
26.03.2009
West Ham United goalkeeper Deniz Mehmet completed a full 80 minutes as Turkey got their UEFA European Under-17 Championship Elite qualifying campaign underway with a 2-2 draw against Wales.
The 16-year-old, who has impressed as a member of Tony Carr's Academy this season, was named in the Turkey side for the Group Six match in Adana.
Swindon Town's Billy Bodin gave Wales a 31st-minute lead before Trabzonspor's Hassan Ahmet Sari drew Turkey level three minutes later. Leicester City midfielder Elliott Chamberlain put the Welsh back in front on 47 minutes before Chelsea starlet Gokhan Tore completed the scoring in the 51st-minute.
Turkey will complete their Elite round fixtures with further games against Romania on Saturday and Finland next Monday. Romania beat Finland 2-1 in Thursday's other fixture.
Should Turkey top their group, Ercan Abdullah's team will qualify for this summer's finals, which will be held in Germany in May.
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England trio on international hopes
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th March 2009
By: Staff Writer
Matthew Upson is looking forward to earning his 14th international cap when England face Slovakia at Wembley this weekend. The Hammers centre half missed the 1-1 draw with Blackburn at Ewood Park last weekend having sustained an injury against West Bromwich Albion the week before. However he is now fully recovered from the calf strain that forced him out of that game and raring to go against the Slovaks this weekend - and then Ukraine, who visit Wembley four days later for a World Cup qualifier. "A lot of people say that we haven't performed as well at the new Wembley," he said. "We need to put that right, have some really good team performances and results. "It's such a fantastic arena to play at and I'm sure the team will be giving it everything they've got."
Meanwhile Carlton Cole is hoping to earn his second cap this weekend to complement his debut against Spain last month, which he was inches away from marking with a goal. I've got high ambitions and new levels of expectation around me now" he told WHUTV. I just want to fulfil my potential and get to the highest my game [can get].
"There's a few things that I need to work on and hopefully I'll be a more complete player when I next get the chance."
Finally Rob Green is hoping to follow up his 45 minutes in Spain with another appearance this weekend - despite bookies making Manchester United reserve keeper Ben Foster favourite to start. "I have no idea whether I will get a chance this time," he admitted, "but it was great to get a half against Spain last time. I just need to carrying on doing my stuff here and keep working hard and hopefully [get a chance]."
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Ashton on recovery
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th March 2009
By: Staff Writer
Dean Ashton has revealed that his return to first team action is still some way off. The 25-year-old striker has been out of action since last September with with an ankle injury but has recently started jogging once again. However he admits he is unlikely to play again this season; talking to whufc.com he said: "It's light at the end of the tunnel for me. To get to this stage again now is a real step up for me and I will continue to work hard to take it further. There is no easy way back from an injury that keeps you out for a long while, but as long as I am working my hardest and keep taking steps forward then I know it is all heading the right way. "I want to come back when everything is right, not return prematurely and end up getting another injury, because all the hard work will be for nothing. If it means continuing to be patient and let things take as long as they need to, then that's what I will do. Ashton - who has made just 33 Premier League starts for the Hammers since moving to East London in January 2006 - was a £7.25million capture from Norwich City. He scored six goals during the latter half of his first season at the club including West Ham's first against Liverpool in the FA Cup Final. What would have been his first full season as a Hammer - 2006/07 - was wiped out completely after he broke an ankle in an England training session - an injury which he has never fully recovered from.
Dean Ashton: West Ham United career highlights
January 2006: Joins club in £7.25million switch from Championship outfit Norwich City.
May 2006: Scores West Ham's first in the 3-3 FA Cup Final draw.
August 2006: First international call-up under Steve McClaren.
August 2006: Breaks ankle in England training session, misses entire 2006/07 season as a result.
August 2007: Makes first league appearance in 15 months (0-2 home defeat to Man City).
September 2007: Ashton warns that it could be months before he is fully fit again
October 2007: Receives first England call-up since ankle break before being ruled out for six weeks (knee ligaments).
November 2007: Makes comeback in 1-1 draw with Tottenham. Ends season will 11 goals to his name.
June 2008: FInally makes his England debut against Trinidad & Tobago (22 months after first call-up).
September 2008: Breaks down in training having played in opening games of 08/09 season. Initial prognosis indicates a three-week layoff.
October 2008: Rumours suggests injury may be far worse than thought and that Ashton may miss entire season.
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Kovac impressed by Parker
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th March 2009
By: Staff Writer
Radoslav Kovac has praised fellow Hammer and midfield partner Scott Parker. The 29-year-old Czech midfielder joined the Hammers on loan from Spartak in January for the rest of the season with view to a permanent deal. Despite struggling to adapt to the pace of the Premier League in his opening appearances Kovac had a fine game against Blackburn at the weekend and is beginning to form a good partnership with the England midfielder - for whom he had complementary words when speaking to deniksport.cz earlier this week. "Playing defensively with Scott Parker, operating side by side we're perfectly complementary," said Kovac. "While he provides more offensive support, I defend more. "I am glad that I play just with him; he is a good kid and football player."
Kovac - who revealed that he has been taking English lessons up to three times a week - also had kind words for striker Carlton Cole, who he feels is an integral part of the United side. "It helps us in that we have Carlton," he said. "He is excellent and holds up a lot of ball which helps the team. He has missed [the last] two matches but we're look forward to having him again. With him we are stronger."
Whilst on his prospects of remaining in England past the end of this season, he added: "When I was talking with the CEO he said he would like to exercise the [permanent] option. But the clause is not the cheapest, so perhaps something can be done in the summer."
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Specs on comeback
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th March 2009
By: Staff Writer
Jonathan Spector has admitted that his recently-injured right hip will never fully heal. The American defender missed the opening half of the 2008/09 season with a torn labrum and had to wait until the 2-1 win over Stoke on 28th December to make his first appearance. But despite having played a part in United's last five games - with no further reaction - Spector has revealed that his hip will never be 100% again as a result of the injury. "The surgeon actually expected that I'd have pain my entire first season back," he said in an interview with Soccernet. "But I haven't really had any pain or discomfort - even after the surgery. "I'm totally surprised how well it healed and how much stronger everything around my hip is. I continue to do the exercises I was given by the trainers and physiotherapists and just stay on top of it. "Coming back from injury is always difficult, especially being out for an extended period of time," he added. "On top of that there's the new manager and new players. "I knew coming in it would be a tough season this year, but at the same time, the manager stressed he wants me to be at the club. I had some loan options turned down because he wanted me to stay."
One of those loan options was Sunderland, as revealed on KUMB.com back in January whilst German outfit FC Koln are also thought to have expressed an interest in taking the former Man Utd utility man. Meanwhile Valon Behrami has told whufc.com that he is delighted at the progress he has made since tearing knee ligaments last month.
"I am very happy that I have the best people around me to help me," he said. "I have people like Giorgio, who is one of the very best in his field, and we also have other good staff and it's important for me to have this. "At the start I will be doing things to get the circulation going again around the knee and building up the reflexes and movement. There are difficult weeks ahead but as I said, I have the right people around me and I am very happy about that."
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Hammers linked with Floccari
Striker will be allowed to leave Atalanta in summer
By James Dall Last updated: 27th March 2009
SSN
Atalanta have confirmed striker Sergio Floccari could be sold in the summer, with West Ham United credited with an interest in the player. Floccari has impressed since signing for Atalanta from Messina in 2007 and has netted 12 goals in 27 games in Serie A this season. A report in Friday's press suggests the Hammers are keen on the Italian, while Newcastle, Juventus, Roma, Villarreal, Wolfsburg and Zenit St Petersburg are all also mentioned. Atalanta sporting director Carlo Osti said in the Daily Mirror: "Sergio has now reached his full potential as a footballer in this league. "We have an agreement with the player and his agent that he will be sold at the end of the season if someone is interested." West Ham have yet to confirm or deny the rumours suggesting they are keen on 27-year-old Floccari.
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West Ham United Eyeing Atalanta's Sergio Floccari – Report
The Hammers are prepared to break their transfer record to take the Italian to Upton Park...
27 Mar 2009 09:30:38
Goal.com
According to a report in the British tabloid The Daily Mirror, Premier League club West Ham United are set to make an offer for Atalanta's Sergio Floccari this summer.
The 27-year-old striker has been linked with a host of clubs recently, including Serie A giants Juventus and Roma, Spanish side Villarreal, German team Wolfsburg and Russian outfit Zenit St. Petersburg. It is therefore thought that la Dea, who reportedly rejected an €8.5 million (£8m) bid for him last season, are ready to ask for as much as €15m (£14m) in exchange for his services. Apparently, the Hammers are ready to smash their current record transfer fee - the €9.5m (£9m) paid for Savio Nsereko in January - to land the 5ft 10 in forward. It appears that the Orobici are prepared to sell their star front-man, with sporting director Carlo Osti quoted as saying, "Sergio has now reached his full potential as a footballer in this league. "We have an agreement with the player and his agent that he will be sold at the end of the season if someone is interested." Floccari has been in good form in front of goal this season, finding the back of the net 12 times in 27 appearances.
Ricky Brooks, Goal.com
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West Ham target club record move for Atalanta striker Floccari
The Mirror
Exclusive by Neil McLeman 27/03/2009
West Ham are ready to break their transfer record for the second time this year after starting negotiations for Italian striker Sergio Floccari. The Upton Park club agreed a £9million deal for Brescia playmaker Savio during the January transfer window. And now Italian technical director Gianluca Nani has identified Floccari, 27, as the man to lead the Hammers attack next season. The Atalanta striker has scored 12 goals in 27 games in Serie A this season and is on the fringes of the Italian national squad.
His form has also attracted the interest of Newcastle as well as Juventus, Roma, Villarreal, Wolfsburg and Zenit St Petersburg. Atalanta, who turned down an £8m bid for him last season, are hoping to start an auction to sell their star player for £14m. But the Hammers are hoping to strike a deal early for a lower price - as they did in January with Serie B side Brescia for Savio. Gianfranco Zola's side need to strengthen their attack with continuing uncertainty over the long-term fitness of Dean Ashton and David Di Michele and Diego Tristan only at the club on season-long loans. Atalanta sporting director Carlo Osti said: "Sergio has now reached his full potential as a footballer in this league. "We have an agreement with the player and his agent that he will be sold at the end of the season if someone is interested."
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West Ham plan CLEVER £3m MIDFIELD MAESTRO bid!
by Mr Comfort on March 26th, 2009
caughtoffside.com
Zola plans an audacious move for this Fulham midfielder. West Ham United Football Club are reportedly keen on Danny Murphy. The former Liverpool midfielder is playing the best football of his career this season, as he inspires Fulham to a possible place in next season's Europa League. However, despite recently triggering a one-year extension to his contract at Craven Cottage, reports suggest Gianfranco Zola hopes to lure him to Upton Park. It is believed the Hammers boss is prepared to offer Murphy a three-year deal to join United which, at the age of 32, is sure to be tempting for the player. (fansfc.com)
Danny Murphy has proved this term that he is still has a lot to offer and if Gianfranco Zola can persuade the former Liverpool man to move to east London then it would be a very clever move. Murphy's performances have earned rave reviews and along with the tight defence at Craven Cottage Danny has been intrumental in leading Roy Hodgson's side into the top half of the table. Do Hammers fans think such a move would be a good one?
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West Ham United - The Game's Gone Crazy
Thursday, 26 March 2009
The new Frank Lampard?
Is Collison the real deal, our new Frank Lampard? The thing that strikes me most is the boy's confidence. He WANTS the ball and wants it in key areas. Against Boro at home in the cup he missed a sitter, blasting over when he should have squared to Di Michele or Tristan, but he was there, at the far stick, further forward than any other player, and he had the balls to let fly. Yes the decision to shoot was wrong, but in our side, a player confident enough to shoot is a precious commodity.
Look at him against City. Never mind the finish, and that goal was beautifully taken, look at the run that took him into the box in the first place. Savio is quick but not quick enough to leave Collison in his wake. As Nsureko broke forward, there was Collison bursting through the middle, actually pointing at the space he wanted the ball played into. Savio chose to shoot instead and who was on hand to sniff in the box as Given parried? Not Cole or Di Michele, the guys paid to do that job, but Collison. That sort of awareness, that sort of hunger to get into goal scoring positions, is rare.
Who does it in the modern game? Lampard, Gerrard, Ronaldo, Giggs, Cahill, Ireland, special players because they read the game and somehow take up positions that others don't see. It is as if the ball is drawn to them, they gamble and time and again, unlike Ethers, they back a winner. Now I accept that it might be going too far to say Collison has that knack based on three goals but that is a good return for a 19 year old playing in a goal shy team that doesn't create bucket fulls of chances. Crucially, the kid has key defensive duties in the formation that Zola picks. Look at Behrami. He is all energy, loads of endeavour, but how often does he actually make it into the opposition box? He is being lauded as a West Ham great but that is more down to sweat and graft than down to any end product from what I have seen. Think again of the City game. Who forced Given into his only meaningful save in the first half? You've got it, Collison, breaking into the left hand corner of the box and driving low towards the bottom corner. The movement and confidence were Lampard like.
So is he that good? Only time will tell of course but confidence, an ability to read the game and quick feet are key ingredients for a quality player. The boy can control a ball, the boy can pick a pass (look at that through ball to Cole against Wigan), the boy can knock in a cross, the boy can dribble, the boy can score, the boy can play down the right, the left or down the middle, the boy can tackle...there's only one mystery. With all that ability, why on earth did he opt to play for Wales when he was qualified for England? Will he become the new Giggs? What a shame he never got to grace the final stages of a World Cup because he opted to play for Wales!
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West Ham: Ton-derful goal helps boost a Noble cause
8:00am Thursday 26th March 2009
Guardian Series
MARK NOBLE is confident that his impressive performance in his 100th game for West Ham against Blackburn on Saturday will trigger his release from a recent slump in form. The 21-year-old midfielder has struggled to hit the heights he managed to reach during a fabulous purple patch in the first half of the season, after being asked to play in a number of different positions, following injuries to key members of the squad. But after bringing up his ton in spectacular fashion with a sumptuous strike against Rovers, he is adamant that he can once again become the driving force of the Hammers midfield. "I mean, wow! Someone told me earlier that I was the longest serving player here and I'm only 21, so to get on the scoresheet on your 100th game is a nice milestone," said Noble. "I had a little dip in form, I don't know what the reason was, but it happens to everyone. But hopefully I am beginning to pick it up again and I will be able to go strong for the rest of the season. "I wasn't worried because I've got a lot of belief in my ability. Obviously I was playing out of position sometimes and to be fair I just stuck with it, kept working hard for the team and the hard work really paid off."
The youngster has been shifted out wide and pushed back to anchor the midfield by manager Gianfranco Zola in recent weeks, and that has too often seen him fade into the background during matches. However, he was very much at the forefront of everything good about West Ham's attacking forays last week, assuming the role of quarterback as he threaded balls between Blackburn's backline with ease. Noble insists Zola's unwavering confidence in his ability has buoyed him throughout his slump, while he admitted that he feels at home pulling the strings in the middle of the park. "He (Zola) always says he is going to keep faith in me. I felt really comfortable playing centrally against Blackburn. In the first half I felt I was back to playing as I know I can play. "With all the injuries we have had you have to play a few different roles, but when you have got the respect for a manager like Zola, you don't mind where you play for him, he treats you the right way and I'm happy to do that."
Zola may have stumbled across a temporary solution to the club's injury problems, employing a new system that also managed to bring the best out of Noble. The Italian deployed Scott Parker and Radoslav Kovac as the midfield anchors, giving Noble the license to roam further upfield and pick the passes for the front trio of Luis Boa Morte, Diego Tristan and David Di Michele. Certainly, Noble would prefer to occupy the same position in games to come, but he won't be complaining if he is asked to fill in elsewhere.
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Tomkins taking the lead for depleted West Ham
8:00am Thursday 26th March 2009
Guardian Series
A SPATE of injuries to key members of West Ham's squad has threatened to scupper their bid for a Europa League place, but one player has helped ensure they remain on course after grabbing his opportunity to impress with both hands. Nineteen-year-old defender James Tomkins was drafted in to partner Matthew Upson at the heart of the Irons' backline after James Collins injured his hamstring against Bolton last month. It was a significant step up in class for the youngster, but he has been one of the team's star performers since being asked to fill in for the Wales international. Indeed, he was the only recognised centre-half in Saturday's match against Blackburn, following an injury to Upson, as he was paired with captain and right-back Lucas Neill. And he stepped up to the plate in style, snuffing out any danger as the hosts ventured forward in droves during a second-half bombardment at Ewood Park. Tomkins' man-of-the-match display drew plaudits from his manager, Gianfranco Zola. "He (Tomkins) has been excellent. He doesn't look like he's 19 years old, he looks like a veteran. I'm very pleased about him and the improvements he's made," said the former Chelsea frontman.
Tomkins is in much the same mould as another West Ham graduate, a certain Rio Ferdinand, in the sense that he is comfortable on the ball, has the ability to pick a pass and has a natural reading of the game. One person who has had the best possible view of the youngster's development is goalkeeper Robert Green, who has been mightily impressed with his performances. "I can't praise the defence enough," said the Hammers' custodian. "Tomka is coming on leaps and bounds. He is a tall lad, but he is learning that there are players in the Premier League who are so big and so strong, like (Blackburn striker) Jason Roberts, and you have got to know when to stand off someone and when to go in and challenge. He is picking that perfectly and being clinical out there. Every ball that came to him he seemed to win."
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Ashton can see light at the end of the tunnel
braderz - Wed Mar 25 2009
West Ham Online
Dean Ashton believes he is finally making progress in his battle to bring an end to his injury problems. Dean has written off this season after suffering an ankle injury last September, but has taken a major step forward in his rehabilitation by jogging for the first time since he underwent a second operation on the problem last February, he told the Club's Official Website. "It's a light at the end of the tunnel point for me," Ashton said. "If you think about it, running forms a large part of training and playing for a footballer and to get to this stage again now is a real step up for me."
The forward is keen to make sure his rehab work is taken at a steady pace to ensure his recovery work is not rushed. He said: "The ultimate aim is to get back running and feel completely comfortable doing this, so I do everything one step at a time. It is good to have this as part of my programme now, though, and I will continue to work hard to take it further. "I want to come back when everything is right, not return prematurely and end up getting another injury, because all the hard work will be for nothing. If it means continuing to be patient and let things take as long as they need to, then that's what I will do."
The medical staff at West Ham are also making sure Ashton is making the right progress at the right time, while giving him as much encouragement as possible. "The manager and the staff here have all been keeping an eye on me and watching my progress closely. There is no easy way back from an injury that keeps you out for a long while, but as long as I know I am working my hardest and keep taking steps forward, then I know it is all heading the right way."
As well as his rehab work, Ashton is keeping tabs on his team-mates and is delighted to see the likes of Carlton Cole, Robert Green and Matthew Upson being picked at international level. "I think we are doing very well. Considering we have had a few injuries of late, the lads who have come in have added to the team's good form and it's great to see the boys getting the results. "I am also pleased to see the boys playing for England. Matty, Greeny and Coley all have been playing really well and deserve to be in the squad. Coley has been on top form and has done well and I am sure, when he gets it, he will take his chance again."
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West Ham and England defender Matthew Upson grateful for Italian influence
Matthew Upson has hailed the Italian influence on his career and praised the shared football philosophies of Fabio Capello and Gianfranco Zola.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Jeremy Wilson
Last Updated: 11:11AM GMT 26 Mar 2009
With Italy renowned for a more tactical approach, Upson says that both West Ham and England have improved through combining their traditional high-tempo qualities with a style that places greater emphasis on retaining possession. "There are a lot of similarities in their character and the way they view football," said Upson. "They definitely have a real tactical knowledge and I think Italian football is very tactical compared to the English game. Terry: I'd love to serve Queen "We are a bit more high tempo but I think both managers have brought a tactical awareness to the teams and that will make us more difficult to beat and maybe a better structured team. "At the top level it's the only way you can play football. Gianfranco Zola certainly views it that way and he played the game in that fashion as a real talented flair player who liked to pass and moving the ball, and Fabio Capello is very much the same. We have to play and pass the ball and when we don't have we have to get the right shape and be tough to break down."
Upson, who has already won six caps under Capello, believes that England may have learnt most from their recent 2-0 defeat against Spain, the European champions.
"It was a massive test and experience, you're probably playing against one of the best teams in the world right now," he said. "It was a good opportunity to put ourselves up against those calibre of players so it was a good experience for us. There are big lessons to be learned in defeat, people often say that you learn more about yourself when you lose than when you win. " It's never a nice experience to lose a game obviously, but you need to take the positives out of the game and learn a lot from the things we didn't do well enough. That's something the manager has analysed since that game. "The 10 day get-togethers are the only real time you get a bit of rhythm and routine in the training sessions and the daily routine generally. We make full use of these days and the manager always says to us at training 'You can't have this day again', so when we train it's important that we focus and concentrate almost as if we were playing."
Upson is likely to be the main cover to John Terry and Rio Ferdinand at centre-back for the forthcoming games, though Capello will use a more experimental line-up for Saturday's friendly match against Slovakia. Steven Gerrard yesterday trained on the left of midfield, with Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry operating in the centre, while Wayne Rooney and Emile Heskey are expected to renew their partnership in attack. With Shaun Wright-Phillips struggling with an ankle injury, Aaron Lennon is competing with David Beckham for a place on the right of midfield.
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Kovac: West Ham players happy Bellamy joined Man City
26.03.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United midfielder Radoslav Kovac has revealed teammates are delighted Craig Bellamy quit the club for Manchester City in January. "They are glad he is not in the team. They say he is a maniac," he explained to deniksport.cz. "He shouted at everyone who did not pass the ball to him in training, it was crazy. His departure has been a positive thing for the players."
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Spartak Moscow's Kovac wants West Ham deal
26.03.09 | tribalfootball.com
Spartak Moscow midfielder Radoslav Kovac is eager to turn his loan at West Ham into a permanent deal. "When I spoke with the club's chairman, he told me that they would be willing to have me stay," he told deniksport.cz. "But the clause is not the most convenient one so I hope we will come to an agreement somehow in the summer.
"West Ham's stadium Upton Park has the capacity of 35,000 and is always sold-out. I love it. "Moreover, I am satisfied with the staff and my team-mates. Training sessions are great so it is just a pity that I am here only on loan."
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West Ham striker Ashton takes a big step forward on long road back to fitness
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 10:18 AM on 26th March 2009
Daily Mail
Dean Ashton is convinced he is finally making progress in his battle to bring an end to his seven-month injury nightmare. The 25-year-old West Ham striker has already written off this season after suffering a serious ankle injury last September, but has taken a major step forward in his rehabilitation by starting jogging for the first time since he underwent a second operation on the problem last February. Ashton said: "It's a light at the end of the tunnel point for me. If you think about it, running forms a large part of training and playing for a footballer and to get to this stage again is a real step up for me."
Already sidelined when Gianfranco Zola arrived at Upton Park, Ashton has been a frustrated bystander while the manager has guided his side to eighth in the League. But the forward is adamant he will not attempt to hurry his return in a bid to force his way into the manager's plans. He added: "I want to come back when everything is right, not return prematurely and end up getting another injury, because all the hard work will be for nothing. "If it means continuing to be patient and let things take as long as they need to, then that's what I will do. The manager and the staff here have all been keeping an eye on me and watching my progress closely."
During his lay-off, the forward has seen Carlton Cole emerge as the Hammers' No 1 striker and replace Ashton as one of the fringe candidates for a place in Fabio Capello's England line-up. Cole will hope to gain his second cap against Slovakia this weekend and Ashton said: "He has been on top form and has done well and I am sure, when he gets it, he will take his chance again."
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West Ham to bid for AC Milan defender Lino Marzotti
26.03.09 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United are chasing AC Milan defender Lino Marzotti. The young centre-half is currently impressing on-loan at Empoli this season. Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola worked with Marzotti while Italy U21 assistant manager.
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West Ham tracking Cagliari defender Pisano
26.03.09 | tribalfootball.com
Cagliari defender Francesco Pisano is interesting West Ham United. Pisano, 22, worked with Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola when playing for Italy U21 last year.
Cagliari will struggle to resist any bid in the region of £4 million for Pisano.
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Dean Ashton ups the pace as he jogs down road to recovery
Ian Winrow
26.03.09
This Is London
Dean Ashton is convinced he is finally making progress in his battle to bring an end to his seven-month injury nightmare. The 25-year-old striker has already written off this season after suffering a serious ankle injury last September, but has taken a major step forward in his rehabilitation by starting jogging for the first time since he underwent a second operation on the problem last February. Ashton said: "It's a light at the end of the tunnel point for me. If you think about it, running forms a large part of training and playing for a footballer and to get to this stage again is a real step up for me."
Already sidelined when Gianfranco Zola arrived at Upton Park, Ashton has been a frustrated bystander while the manager has guided his side to eighth in the League.
But the forward is adamant he will not attempt to hurry his return in a bid to force his way into the manager's plans. He added: "I want to come back when everything is right, not return prematurely and end up getting another injury, because all the hard work will be for nothing. "If it means continuing to be patient and let things take as long as they need to, then that's what I will do. The manager and the staff here have all been keeping an eye on me and watching my progress closely. "As long as I know I am working my hardest and keep taking steps forward, then I know it is all heading the right way."
During his lay-off, the forward has seen Carlton Cole emerge as the Hammers' No1 striker and replace Ashton as one of the fringe candidates for a place in Fabio Capello's England line-up. Cole will hope to gain his second cap against Slovakia this weekend and Ashton said: "He has been on top form and has done well and I am sure, when he gets it, he will take his chance again."
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West Ham star Matt Upson says England owe their fans a good Wembley show
The Mirror
By John Cross 26/03/2009
International friendly: England v Slovakia, Saturday, 5.15pm
Matt Upson has admitted England owe their Wembley fans a big performance. England boss Fabio Capello has already warned that playing at Wembley has become a "psychological" barrier after a string of disappointing results and performances. But Upson believes England can win over the Wembley faithful in the match with Slovakia and next Wednesday's World Cup qualifier with Ukraine. The centre-back said: "It's important and I think it's something we really need to work on to bring that level of performance from our away games back to Wembley. "A lot of people have said that perhaps we haven't performed as well as we should at the new Wembley and they've probably got a right to say that. "I think it's up to us to understand why we haven't performed and put that right and get some really good team performances and good results there. "It's such a fantastic arena to play in and I'm sure the team will be giving it everything they've got."
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Zola keeping his fingers crossed
Sport.co.uk
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on: 26 March 2009 - 8:12 AM
Gianfranco Zola is desperately hoping his West Ham stars emerge unscathed from international duty. The Hammers are currently eyeing a place in next season's revamped UEFA Cup but are down to the bare bones with midfielders Valon Behrami and Jack Collison both injured, while Dean Ashton and Danny Gabbidon are long-term absentees.And after offloading a whole host of players in January, Zola is desperate for the likes of Carlton Cole, Robert Green and Matthew Upson to return fully fit with the Italian's options being severely restricted by the latest Upton Park injury crisis. "In January we had something like 24 players," said the West Ham boss. "Players were not playing and I don't like having players that were not playing regularly, especially if they are important players. "That's why we decided to sell some players and give some players the opportunity to play. "But then I didn't plan that I was going to have Behrami injured or Collison injured, that is part of the football. "I believe that the team is good enough and the squad is good enough to end the season and achieve our objectives. "We are still there and have a few problems but we will see how they cope.
"It is an opportunity for me to see some young players and plan for the future. It is a good opportunity for me."
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