WHUFC.com
The manager has the 'problem' of who to leave out this weekend with so many key players fit and available
10.01.2009
Gianfranco Zola is more than ready for a tricky test at Newcastle United this afternoon and has the welcome headache of a strong squad at his disposal.
The manager, who has felt the benefit of the medical department's excellent efforts at injury prevention and rehabilitation this season, said: "We have Matthew Upson, Valon Behrami, Scott Parker and Lucas Neill back but the team did very well without them last week. I have a big squad to choose from. Although not everybody can play, I don't mind this problem because it means I have plenty of options."
As well as going for a fourth consecutive victory in all competitions, there is the chance to make it a half-dozen matches unbeaten on the road - the last time the team tasted defeat on their travels was at the champions Manchester United on 29 October. Zola is unsurprisingly in high spirits. "I am very pleased with the away form. The team is looking very solid and playing well.
"We are performing well. Now we are looking to continue this great run. We have a tough match but we are confident we can get a good result." With all his strikers contributing when required, Zola is also optimistic his team can find the net at St James' Park and had a special mention for Carlton Cole who has scored in each of the last three games.
"Carlton Cole likes to play for the team, he holds the ball up very well. I have noticed a few changes in the last few weeks, he is more thinking about scoring and that is something he has put into his game. He has to try to keep working the way he is working but sometimes focus a little bit more on scoring. What he is doing is very good. Hopefully he will continue like this until the end of the season."
While the transfer window rumour mill has begun to link West Ham United with many players, particularly some of the best young talent around - Zola declared he was happy with his lot for now. "When the moment comes we will look around and see if we can do something, but right now I don't really like talking about it because I want to keep the team the way it is. It's as simple as that."
What the manager is happy to discuss is the existing talent at his disposal and he emphasised his faith in Tony Carr's academy. "The project is to make a team capable of competing at high levels. Because we cannot compete by spending £200m to get them we want to get young talented players, play them and improve them. That doesn't mean that all the time we will be looking abroad. We have good young players here like Jack Collison, Freddie Sears and Mark Noble."
The manager also had a word for Herita Ilunga who "has been performing fantastically" since the day he joined in September and scored his first goal in last weekend's 3-0 win against Barnsley in the FA Cup. The manager's determination to keep his strong squad together in order to push up the table is paramount in his thoughts. That said, he is not complacent about their form.
"This month has taught me that you can't say anything because three weeks ago we were talking differently about it. It is one of those positions where now we have a little bit more confidence but not too much. We need to put a little bit more distance between us and teams behind us. Now it is improving but we don't want to lose our focus and we know we have to keep performing."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collins aware of Owen threat
WHUFC.com
James Collins knows that Michael Owen will be a danger for the defence at St James' Park on Saturday
10.01.2009
James Collins spoke of the positive but focused mood in the camp as the first-team squad headed up to Newcastle with the aim of maintaining West Ham United's unbeaten run on the road.
The Wales defender was aware from experience that it would be a difficult contest up at Tyneside but said the squad had nothing to fear. "We know it is going to be tough - they have a great squad," he said. Although Newcastle's injury problems are well-documented, Collins was sure a certain striker would still pose a considerable threat.
"I have played against Michael Owen a few times and it's never an easy afternoon when he is playing. But everyone is looking forward to the game. We go into the match on the back of some good results and we want to keep that going."
Collins added that the chance to keep the winning feeling was the priority if the team were to keep on rising. "It is a good habit to be in, winning games. The league is still very tight but we have just got to concentrate on playing good football and getting the right results and see where that takes us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Captain's Blog: On a roll
WHUFc.com
Lucas Neill is available again for selection and is looking to lead the team to yet another win on Saturday
09.01.2009
I hope everyone had a good Christmas and wonderful New Year. I want to wish all of you all the very best for 2009.
It was a fantastic festive period for the club. As was shown in years gone by, a good Christmas can set you up well for the rest of the season and after playing well and it going unrewarded, it was maximum points from two games for us.
Firstly at Portsmouth where Coley and Bellars were among the goals as was young Jack, who is a fantastic talent. The only negative was for me getting the injury at half-time and us conceding an early goal, but we got back and ended up winning emphatically.
We backed that up with a great win two days later at home against Stoke - we had struggled with our home form so to get a home win under our belts was great and I like the fans, watched the game, kicking every ball and wondering what was going to happen with the goalmouth scrambles going on.
Although we conceded an early goal again, the great spirit and determination of the team, which by the way, is no accident, spurred us on. Diego also got a goal in this game, his first for the club and we went on to win.
We then followed that up with an FA Cup win over Barnsley, who last year had a very good run and we knew would be hard to beat. While you always want to play well, getting a winning result means having your name in the hat for the next round.
We have been rewarded with a tough away game against Hartlepool but one in which, if we are successful, we can be challenging for a spot nearer Wembley.
As a result, three wins in a row has brought about extra confidence. The dressing room is as always very positive and everybody is re-iterating what we are doing on the training ground and it is showing on the pitch.
That is credit to the staff and players and is no doubt, pleasing for the supporters.
So we now go again - this weekend to Newcastle, who have had distractions on and off the pitch, but that can work in their favour and make them stronger.
But we have great form behind us - five away games unbeaten - and we want to carry that on, making sure we are hard to beat and turning up at away grounds to give the home sides a tough time.
Thanks in advance to all our fans who will be making the enormous journey up to the north east and let's hope we can reward you all with points and a good performance.
It seems West Ham are in the newspapers for most things these days. I just want to re-iterate what the manager and Scott Duxbury, our CEO, has already said, by saying that no one in the squad wants to leave, no one needs to leave and unless there is an offer that the manager believes can't be turned down, then there is no reason for anyone to leave.
With our recent run of results, there is every reason to be excited about what is happening here. At this time, you need to have a mental toughness and this is the time when the experienced senior players and leaders in the team will stand up and help the younger players and we take that with us again when we walk on to the pitch at 3pm on Saturday.
Anything in the newspapers or on television is hearsay and, unless it is backed up by an official quote from our CEO, manager or player, take it with a pinch of salt.
Once again, I want to wish everyone a happy New Year and that 2009 is a great year for everyone, the manager, board, players, staff and supporters of West Ham for the right reasons on and off the pitch.
Lucas Neill
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bellamy grateful for fan support
WHUFC.com
Craig Bellamy has thanked the fans for voting him the player of the month for December
09.01.2009
Craig Bellamy has spoken of his delight at being voted player of the month for December by users of whufc.com.
The West Ham United striker spoke just before the squad departed for Saturday's away game at Newcastle United as they look to make it six games unbeaten on the road and also secure four successive wins in all competitions. Bellamy's contribution in the last month included a priceless goal in the 1-1 draw at Chelsea on 14 December and two goals in the 4-1 success away at Portsmouth on Boxing Day.
Despite the personal accolade, Bellamy was quick to acknowledge his team-mates. He said: "I am delighted to be voted as player of the month by our fans - but it has been a good month for all of us. We have all really come on well as a team. We have a lot of players who can create and score goals and it has been a decent month for us. Hopefully now, we can go on and kick on from here."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newcastle match preview
WHUFC.com
All the early team news and statistics ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League game
09.01.2009
Barclays Premier League
Newcastle United v West Ham United
Saturday 10 January
3pm
Referee: Andre Marriner
WHUTV - Full audio commentary
Introduction
* West Ham United travel to Newcastle United aiming to record their fourth straight victory in all competitions - and third in the Barclays Premier League. A 4-1 Boxing Day win at Portsmouth was followed by a 2-1 home win over Stoke City on 28 December and a 3-0 FA Cup third-round success against Barnsley on 3 January.
* West Ham head to St James' Park seeking to extend their unbeaten away record in the Premier League to six matches. Should the Hammers avoid defeat at Newcastle, it would represent the club's best away run in the top-flight since the 2000/01 season, when United went six matches unbeaten between 23 September and 16 December.
* Prior to that run, West Ham went eight Division One matches unbeaten at the start of the 1986/87 season. When combined with two League Cup matches, the Hammers began that campaign by not losing any of their opening ten away fixtures in all competitions.
* This season, West Ham have not lost away from home in the Premier League since going down 2-0 at champions Manchester United on 29 October 2008. Since that defeat, Zola's team have conceded just three goals in five away matches.
* West Ham's last two victories at Newcastle both came in 1998. Stan Lazaridis scored the only goal on 7 February. Ian Wright's brace and a Trevor Sinclair goal secured a 3-0 win on 31 October. Former Hammer Stuart Pearce was sent-off for Newcastle during the Halloween fixture.
* West Ham have not won on any of their last seven visits to Tyneside.
* West Ham first-team coach Steve Clarke spent time at St James' Park as assistant to manager Ruud Gullit. He also took caretaker charge of the Magpies for one match in August 1998.
* Saturday's game is Newcastle United's 300th Premier League fixture at St James' Park. The Magpies have won 168, drawn 71 and lost 60 of their previous 299 home games in the competition.
* Newcastle have lost each of their last two Premier League matches, going down 2-1 at Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day and 5-1 at home to Manchester United on 28 December. Joe Kinnear's side secured a goalless draw at Hull City in the FA Cup third round on 3 January.
* Going into this weekend's round of matches, West Ham United midfielder Valon Behrami had won 55 free-kicks - more than any other Premier League player.
* Before this weekend, Newcastle United had conceded eight penalties - more than any other Premier League side.
* The highest West Ham can climb in the Premier League table with victory at Newcastle is seventh if Wigan Athletic, Hull City and Fulham all lose. Should they lose and Bolton Wanderers and either Portsmouth or Manchester City win their fixture at Fratton Park, the Hammers could fall as low as 13th.
* Newcastle could rise above the Hammers into tenth with a win but drop as low as 16th should they lose.
* Saturday's referee will be Alan Wiley. The 48-year-old took charge of the 2006 League and FA Cup finals and last season's Championship play-off final between Hull City and Bristol City.
* West Ham return to action with the visit of Fulham to the Boleyn Ground on Sunday 18 January. The Hammers won 2-1 at Craven Cottage in manager Gianfranco Zola's first away game in charge on 27 September 2008.
Team news
* Captain Lucas Neill (ankle), Switzerland midfielder Valon Behrami (groin), England defender Matthew Upson (flu) and midfielder Scott Parker (suspended) have all trained well this week and return to Gianfranco Zola's squad for Saturday's fixture.
* With Behrami and Parker back to challenge Mark Noble, Jack Collison, Hayden Mullins, Luis Boa Morte, Julien Faubert and Kieron Dyer for midfield starting berths on Saturday, the manager faces a positive selection problem - while Jonathan Spector and James Tomkins have added extra defensive strength.
* Dyer, who has had another full week in training and looked sharp, made an impressive return from 16 months out with a broken leg in last weekend's 3-0 FA Cup third round win over Barnsley at the Boleyn Ground. Dyer made 251 league and cup appearances for the Magpies during an eight-year stay at St James' Park between 1999 and 2007.
* Forwards David Di Michele and Diego Tristan will both hope to be involved at St James' Park after impressing during their recent run-outs in the first team, with Freddie Sears also heading up to the north-east.
* Goalkeeper Robert Green is the only West Ham player to have featured in every minute of the club's Premier League season so far. Matthew Upson has started every league match but was substituted in the 3-1 home defeat to Everton on 8 November.
* Young goalkeeper Marek Stech has again travelled with the first-team squad and will battle Czech Republic compatriot Jan Lastuvka for a place on the substitutes' bench.
* West Ham's second-string will aim to go top of Barclays Premier Reserve League South when they take on Aston Villa on Tuesday evening. The re-arranged fixture, which fell victim to the cold weather on 5 January, will see the Villans, who top the table, take on the joint-second-placed Hammers.
* Left-sided player Walter Lopez, midfielder Josh Payne, striker Freddie Sears, goalkeeper Marek Stech, winger Kyel Reid have all been working hard in training and will be keen to impress manager Alex Dyer. Youngsters Bondz N'Gala and Tom Harvey could also be involved.
* Newcastle have injury doubts over Charles N'Zogbia (thigh), Cacapa (knee) and Shola Ameobi (ankle). Mark Viduka (groin), Habib Beye (knee), Joey Barton (knee), Alan Smith (achilles) and Obafemi Martins (hernia) are all definitely out of Saturday's game.
* Midfielder Danny Guthrie has overcome a bout of flu and has declared himself fit.
* England striker Michael Owen will make his 50th Newcastle appearance if he is selected on Saturday.
Last time out
FA Cup third round
Saturday 3 January
West Ham United 3-0 Barnsley
West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Collins, Tomkins, Ilunga, Collison (Dyer 70), Noble, Mullins, Boa Morte (Etherington 66), Bellamy, Cole (Tristan 75)
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Spector, Bowyer, Di Michele
Booked: Faubert, Mullins
Goals: Ilunga 10, Noble 39 pen, Cole 68
FA Cup third round
Saturday 3 January
Hull City 0-0 Newcastle United
Newcastle United: Given, Coloccini, Bassong, Taylor, Jose Enrique, Duff, Guthrie, Butt, N'Zogbia (Gutierrez 36), Owen, Carroll
Subs not used: Harper, Xisco, Geremi, Kadar, Edgar, LuaLua
Booked: Butt, Gutierrez
Background
* The teams last met on 20 September 2008 at the Boleyn Ground in Gianfranco Zola's first game in charge after becoming West Ham United manager. Two first-half goals from David Di Michele and a second-half strike from Matthew Etherington put the Hammers 3-0 up before Michael Owen scored a late consolation for the Magpies.
* The lineups were:
West Ham United: Green, Behrami, Upson, Neill, Ilunga, Faubert, Noble, Parker (Mullins, 72), Etherington (Boa Morte, 73), Di Michele, Cole (Sears, 87)
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Lopez, Davenport, Reid
Newcastle United: Given, Edgar (Bassong, 59), Taylor, Coloccini, N'Zogbia, Geremi, Cacapa (Gonzalez, 81), Butt, Duff, Owen, Xisco
Subs not used: Harper, Ameobi, Tozer, Doninger, Donaldson
Head to head (last six meetings, league unless stated)
20 September 2008 - West Ham United 3-1 Newcastle United
26 April 2008 - West Ham United 2-2 Newcastle United
23 September 2007 - Newcastle United 3-1 West Ham United
20 January 2007 - Newcastle United 2-2 West Ham United
17 February 2006 - West Ham United 0-2 Newcastle United
17 December 2005 - West Ham United 2-4 Newcastle United
Overall record v Newcastle United (all competitions): W 37, D 34, L 47
General information
All tickets for this fixture for away supporters have SOLD OUT.
Weather: The forecast is for sunny intervals with temperatures not expected to get above 4C.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newcastle v West Ham
PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: St James' Park Date: Saturday, 10 January Kick-off: 1500 GMT Coverage: Score updates on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sport website & highlights on Match of the Day; featured game on Final Score
BBC.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newcastle will be without Nicky Butt as he is suspended, while Danny Guthrie is trying to recover from flu. Charles N'Zogbia should play despite a dead leg and Shola Ameobi is recovering from a hamstring injury, but neither Habib Beye nor Obafemi Martins feature.
West Ham are set to recall Valon Behrami, Lucas Neill and Matthew Upson, while Manchester City target Scott Parker returns from suspension. Kieron Dyer could keep his place on the bench but he is still short of fitness.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newcastle (from): Given, Harper, Enrique, Bassong, Coloccini, Taylor, Edgar, Kadar, Guthrie, N'Zogbia, Duff, Gutierrez, Geremi, Donaldson, Owen, Carroll, Xisco, LuaLua, Ranger.
West Ham (from): Green, Lastuvka, Ilunga, Lopez, Upson, Collins, Davenport, Neill, Faubert, Spector, Tomkins, Behrami, Parker, Noble, Collison, Mullins, Boa Morte, Bellamy, Cole, Tristan, Di Michele, Sears, Dyer.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Newcastle assistant boss Chris Hughton on manager Joe Kinnear:
"One thing Joe is is an experienced manager, and experienced managers have been through good times and they have been through bad times, and it is how they react when they are in the bad times.
"Joe's goal at the moment would be to get this team away from the position we are in, into an area where perhaps things could be a little more comfortable."
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola:
"The mood is quite high. The players are performing well but I believe that we can still improve and I'm expecting that we will improve in the next game.
"I'm very pleased with our away form. The team is looking solid right now and is playing well. The confidence is coming back to everybody, even to the manager!"
Make your Premier League predictions
BIG-MATCH FACTS
Newcastle United play their 300th home Premier League fixture, looking for victory that would see them leapfrog opponents West Ham, and could possibly land them a place in the top 10 for the first time since August.
Gianfranco Zola began his managerial career at West Ham with a 3-1 home victory over Newcastle on 20 September. He won his first two league games, but goes into this match looking to complete three successive league victories for the first time as boss of the Hammers.
Newcastle have lost their last two Premier League games, and are in danger of suffering their longest losing sequence under Joe Kinnear.
The Magpies hold a seven-match unbeaten home record against West Ham of four wins and three draws.
West Ham have not claimed three Premier League points at St James' Park since a 0-3 triumph on 31 October 1998, when Ian Wright got a brace.
Distance between the clubs: 280 miles (451 kilometres)
West Ham's longest journey of their Premier League season.
CLUB FORM
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Club stats
14th 22 points
Highest achievable after Saturday's matches: 10th
Lowest could fall: 16th
Best & Worst categories in 2008-09 Premier League
1. Lost the last two Premier League matches against Wigan (a) and Liverpool (h). Not lost three in a row since four successive losses between 30 August and 27 September.
2. Won two of nine league games.
3. Playing their first league match since suffering their biggest loss of the season in front of the biggest home gate; 1-5, to Liverpool on 28 December, in front of 52,114.
4. The defeat to the Merseysiders ended a six-game unbeaten league run at St James' Park of three wins and three draws.
5. Gained their first win in seven Premier League matches against London opposition with a 2-1 eclipse of Tottenham on Tyneside on 21 December.
6. Lost only one of the last 12 home Premier League matches against clubs from the capital; 0-2 to Chelsea on 5 May 2008.
Fixtures
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEST HAM UNITED
Club stats
10th 25 points
Highest realistically achievable after Saturday's matches: 8th
Lowest could fall: 14th
Best & Worst categories in 2008-09 Premier League
1. Won the last three in all competitions; against Portsmouth (a), Stoke (h) and Barnsley (in the FA Cup at Upton Park).
2. Won two of six league matches.
3. Lost only one of their last seven top-flight fixtures against North-East clubs; 2-1, away to Sunderland on 29 March 2008.
4. Alternated between draw and victory in the last four league games against clubs from the North-East; will continue that sequence is this match finishes all-square.
Fixtures
KEY PLAYER NOTES
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Squad profiles
Shay GIVEN and Fabricio COLOCCINI have played every minute of every one of Newcastle's Premier League matches this season.
If he scores:-
Shola AMEOBI will take his total of goals for Newcastle to 50.
If on the field from the outset:-
Michael OWEN will be making his 50th Premier League start in a Newcastle shirt.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WEST HAM UNITED
Squad profiles
Robert GREEN is the only remaining player to have been on the field for every minute of every one of West Ham's Premier League matches this season.
Lee BOWYER is a double shy of 50 career Premier League goals (Leeds, Newcastle and West Ham).
If selected:-
Luis BOA MORTE will be making his 300th English league appearance (Arsenal, Southampton, Fulham and West Ham).
Dean ASHTON will be making his 250th career league appearance (Crewe, Norwich and West Ham).
BOWYER will be making his 50th appearance for the Hammers.
Craig BELLAMY will be facing a former club. The 29 year old Wales international made 128 appearances (93 in the league) and scored 42 goals (27 league) for Newcastle between June 2001 and July 2005.
BOWYER would also be facing his former club. In the three seasons from July 2003, the England International midfielder made 98 appearances and scored 11 goals for Newcastle. Of those, 79 appearances and six goals were in the Premier League.
Scott PARKER will also be coming up against former team mates. The 28 year old midfielder made 73 appearances (55 in the league) and scored six goals (four league) between June 2005 and his £7m 2007 close season move to Upton Park.
HEAD TO HEAD
Michael Owen scored a hat-trick against West Ham, in the 2-4 Premier League win at Upton Park on 17 December 2005.
The Hammers have won only two of the last 16 trips to Newcastle.
Home and away
League (inc PL): Newcastle 44 wins, West Ham 37 Draws 32
Prem: Newcastle 12 wins, West Ham 8, Draws 7
at Newcastle only
League (inc PL): Newcastle 30 wins, West Ham 8, Draws 18
Prem: Newcastle 7 wins, West Ham 2, Draws 4
LAST SEASON'S CORRESPONDING GAME
Newcastle United 3-1 West Ham United
23 September 2007 - Ref: Mike Riley
Newcastle scorers: Viduka 2, 41, N'Zogbia 76
West Ham scorer: Ashton 32
THIS SEASON'S REVERSE FIXTURE
West Ham United 3-1 Newcastle United
20 September 2008 - Ref: Phil Dowd
West Ham scorers: Di Michele 8, 37, Etherington 53
Newcastle scorer: Owen 67
REFEREE
Alan Wiley (Stafforshire)
Premier League referees' table
Alan Wiley's 2008-09 Premier League card count
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newcastle Utd v West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 9th January 2009
By: Preview Percy
Next up is a visit to Newcastle for our annual trip to a club that is possibly the only one that comes near us in the "football club as soap opera" stakes.
Newcastle were the visitors to the Boleyn early on in the season shortly after the arrival of Messrs Zola & Clarke and a combination of us playing well and them playing poorly saw us emerge 3-1 winners. At the time the Magpies were in the hands of Chris Hughton whose tenure as caretaker boss came to an end with the surprise appointment of Joe Kinnear as "Interim Manager". To date Kinnear's biggest achievement has been to break the world record for the most swearing in a single press conference.
Since that match, owner Mike Ashley has confirmed Kinnear in post to the end of the season and has withdrawn the club from the market, hopefully leaving someone with a few billion burning a hole in his pocket looking for another club to buy out. The Geordie support has scarcely mellowed towards Ashley over the past few months and he still feels unable to attend matches in person. The "Cockney Mafia Out" banner made an appearance at last week's away Cup tie at Hull. The banner's owner got into a bit of an argument with a fellow Geordie supporter, punches were thrown and a banning order ensued. Add to that the announcement made by Shay Given's lawyer to the effect that his client would rather be elsewhere just now if Mr Wenger is listening and it is clear that all is far from sweetness and light at SJP at the moment.
Newcastle have lost their last two league matches, those being a 2-1 defeat to Mike Dean at Wigan and a 5-1 home reverse against Liverpool, a match that prompted Stevie "Diving Cheat and Friend of Gangsters" Gerrard to go out for a quiet pint or two. This has left them four places and three points behind us in 14th on 22 points.The 5-1 was followed by a 0-0 draw in the cup at the KC Stadium where Given's goal line save may or may not have crossed the line. The Magpies' last victory in the league came at Portsmouth who appear to be shipping goals for fun at present. Given will start in goal on Saturday, though admittedly I haven't checked this out with his legal team yet. Coloccini, Bassong, Jose Enrique and Taylor were the four in front of Given last week though one can only speculate what Enrique thinks of Kinnear's comments to the effect that he'd have been out on his ear if only Kinnear had been able to convince John Arne Riise to quit Roma.
In midfield they went with Duff, Guthrie, Butt and N'Zogbia last time out. There will be changes in the middle however as Butt will be on his, er, Butt in the stands having picked up a suspension. Guthrie has been unwell with 'flu all week – that's real 'flu as opposed to the mysterious strain that prevents players from turning out at Fratton Park – and is also a doubt. N'Zogbia hobbled off at Hull with a dead leg which may leave Kinnear with only one fit midfielder to choose from in Geremi. Geremi hasn't exactly been the first name on the team sheet in recent weeks and hasn't made an appearance for five games so there may be an element of walking wounded about the middle.
There will also be some notable absentees up top for the home side. Michael Owen may not be off just yet though few expect to see him start next season at SJP. He'll start alongside youngster Andy Carroll this weekend, the 20 year-old Carroll being preferred to Shola "Not Carl Cort" Ameobi. Ameobi has staked an early claim for the 2009 "dim player of the year award" with his latest antics. Recently, he allegedly returned to his flat to find it in such a state that he automatically assumed that he'd been burgled. Eventually the striker twigged that he hadn't been turned over – he'd just left the place in a really untidy state. Unfortunately, but hilariously, the penny dropped only after the local constabulary had turned up to investigate.
Carroll gets his chance as a result of injuries to Oba Martins, who is popping over to Germany to get a hernia repaired, and Aussie Mark Viduka, who is fat as well as injured. Xisco appears only likely to be selected in the event of every other potential striker at the club getting ht by a passing asteroid – something that is only likely to occur if the former Deportivo la Corunna man happens to pay a visit to the vertigo-inducing away seats at SJP. Rumour has it that Kinnear was looking to ship the Spaniard out during the window to raise funds to strengthen the squad. However, early season appearances for Deportivo in the Intertoto & UEFA cups mean that any deals will have to wait until summer unless Liverpool want him, in which case the usual two clubs in a year rule won't apply as long as a suitable charitable donation is made to a nominated FIFA official.
For our own part Matthew Upson, whose 'flu last week appears to have been genuine, is hopeful of a return to action. Those who have either gone or are on their way (Davenport, Boa-Morte, Etherington, Bowyer) were hardly first names on the team sheet material – though LBM has started in recent weeks. So expect to see Tomkins on the bench if Upson is well enough and Parker to come in for Mullins after his suspension - if he's still with the club. It's probably a bit early to expect Dyer to return to the starting line-up judging from the knackered expression he wore after his 20 minutes last weekend, but Behrami and Neill also look likely to be available, which may mean the bench for Faubert – another who is being linked with a departure. Cole will start alongside Bellamy, who is another who will be facing a former club, but then he does most weeks doesn't he.
Optimism reigns in the Percy household for this one. We have a number of first-teamers returning to availability against a club whose injury problems will see a high proportion of kids either in the side or on the bench and the potentially makeshift nature of the home midfield is something that I can see us being able to exploit this time round. We've often played better away from the Boleyn and three points from this venue for the first time in a number of years shouldn't be beyond us if we can get a good start to the match. We'll have to keep Owen quiet of course given his oh-so-irritating habit of always scoring against us, and getting past Given is never the easiest of propositions. Nevertheless I reckon we can come away from this with a 2-1 win to stretch out the ridiculously compressed middle to bottom section of the table and to start to look a little bit safer. Mine's a double!
Enjoy the game!
Last Season: Lost 3-1 – the fat Aussie (2) and N'Zogbia score to counter Ashton's equalizer in a match from which we deserved at least a point.
Danger Man: Michael Bloody Owen – If he'd been playing for them in the famous 8-1 match, he'd have got the one and I'd have gone home all grumpy as a result.
Look out for: The Hubble Space Telescope. It orbits at an altitude a mere seven feet above the top level of the Sir John Hall Stand. Away supporters technically become astronauts on arrival at their seats.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers trial for Zoro
Ivorian defender hoping to impress at Upton Park
By Giscard Gourizro Last updated: 9th January 2009
SSN
Benfica defender Marco Zoro has revealed that he is set for a five-day trial at West Ham. The Ivory Coast international has struggled to settle in Portugal following his arrival in 2007, with first-team football proving hard to come by. He has therefore decided to act on interest from England and is keen to secure a permanent move to the Premier League. While he has admitted to receiving an invitation to train with West Ham, Sam Allardyce's Blackburn are also believed to have expressed an interest. "I will spend five days on trial at West Ham," Zoro told skysports.com. "At the moment I am in the UK, but I am not supposed to say anything else at the moment. "Benfica? I don't know what is happening. I have never been given an opportunity to prove myself. "The Premier League would be a dream for me, so let's wait and see what happens. I will talk more next week."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newcastle v West Ham preview
Guthrie is fit for Magpies, while Parker, Upson, Neill and Behrami are back for Hammers
By Steve Pass Last updated: 9th January 2009
PREDICTIONS:
Skysports.com prediction: 2-2
SKY BET odds: Newcastle 6/5, Draw 9/4, West Ham 12/5
One to Watch: Kieron Dyer
Newcastle and West Ham go into Saturday's clash at St James' Park on the back of contrasting fortunes. For the Magpies have lost their last two league games, while the Hammers have won both theirs. Both will be targeting three points here to climb further away from the drop zone in such a tight division. The Magpies' 2-1 defeat against Wigan and then the 5-1 mauling at the hands of Liverpool came after Joe Kinnear had steadied the ship at Newcastle. His side had previously been unbeaten in six games, picking up ten points to now sit in 14th in the table. And despite the last two league losses, Kinnear will have taken heart from the goalless draw at Hull in the FA Cup last time, particularly the clean sheet after his side let in five against the Reds. Gianfranco Zola's West Ham, meanwhile, go into this game full of confidence after three wins on the bounce. The Hammers followed up league victories over Portsmouth and Stoke with a 3-0 win against last year's semi-finalists Barnsley in the FA Cup. They will be looking to do the double over the Magpies after beating Newcastle 3-1 at home back in September. And as a further confidence boost, Zola's men are now unbeaten in five games on their travels in the league to sit in 10th in the table.
Kinnear has been handed a boost with the news that Danny Guthrie is fit to play against the Hammers after recovering from a bout of flu. The 21-year-old midfielder had been rated as a doubt after missing training earlier in the week but is available. But key midfielder Nicky Butt is suspended after the former Manchester United star picked up his fifth booking of the season at Hull last weekend. Charles N'Zogbia is expected to shake off a dead leg, while Shola Ameobi, who signed a three-year contract extension earlier his week, is recovering from a hamstring problem, but Habib Beye (ankle) is out long term and Obafemi Martins will undergo hernia surgery in Germany on Monday. Joey Barton (knee) and Alan Smith (foot) have returned to training but are several weeks away from returns, while Claudio Cacapa (knee) and Igancio Gonzalez are still out.
Former Newcastle player Lee Bowyer will miss out on the trip after joining Birmingham on loan until the end of the season. But Kieron Dyer could feature against his former club after making a successful comeback from long-term injury against Barnsley last time, as could fellow midfielder Scott Parker who is available again after suspension. Zola is also boosted by the return of Matthew Upson, Lucas Neill and Valon Behrami from injury. But Dean Ashton and Danny Gabbidon remain long-term absentees.
Possible starting XIs
Newcastle: Given, Coloccini, Enrique, Taylor, Bassong, Geremi, Guthrie, N'Zogbia, Owen, Duff, Guitierrez.
West Ham: Green, Upson, Ilunga, Neill, Davenport, Behrami, Parker, Collinson, Noble, Cole, Bellamy.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man City v West Ham rescheduled
FulhamWeb
(10/01/2009 11:13:07)
Man City's Premier League match against West Ham has been rescheduled. The Upton Park clash has been put back to Sunday, March 1st, kicking off at 12.30pm.
City play their second UEFA Cup second leg tie against Copenhagen the preceding Thursday. The game was originally due to take place on Saturday, February 28.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fulham look at West Ham compensation claim
(10/01/2009 11:04:05)
FulhamWeb
The Carlos Tévez affair widened last night, with Fulham considering a compensation claim against West Ham United should it be proved that the East London club breached further Premier League rules. Fulham, and possibly Wigan Athletic, are looking into whether they are entitled to additional prize-money that they would have received had West Ham not finished directly above them at the end of the 2006-07 season. In Fulham's case, the figure would amount to about £500,000.
West Ham are confident that no further charges will be brought after the FA and Premier League ordered a fresh inquiry into the Tévez affair. The new investigation will focus on assurances made by the club to the League that ensured that Tévez was able to play in the final three matches of the 2006-07 two years ago.
West Ham, who believe that the inquiry will jeopardise their ability to sell the club, have been given 14 days to submit any evidence before the FA and League consider whether there is a case to answer. The club claim that any points deduction, if they were to be found guilty of any charges that are subsequently brought, would not apply to this season.
West Ham were fined £5.5 million in April 2007 by an independent tribunal, set up by the League, for an admitted breach of rules in the transfer of Tévez. Sheffield United claimed that the Argentina striker's goals were instrumental in West Ham's survival in the 2006-07 season.
Despite sources close to the case insisting that West Ham were told they would face no further charges, the League has denied that this was the case. "As announced yesterday, the Premier League and the FA have instituted a joint inquiry into the views expressed by the Independent Arbitral Tribunal chaired by Lord Griffiths," the League said in a statement.
"The inquiry will examine whether the conduct of West Ham United immediately after the Independent Disciplinary Commission's decision of 27 April 2007 amounted to further breaches of Premier League or FA Rules. It is categorically not the case that the club has been informed that no charges will flow, as suggested in The Times yesterday. If there is any evidence of wrongdoing by any party, this will be pursued by the relevant regulatory authority."
Dave Whelan believes that the truth may finally emerge after spending two years campaigning. The Wigan chairman has been an outspoken critic of West Ham and the League over its handling of the Tévez transfer. In May 2007, Whelan called for the resignation of Sir Dave Richards, the Premier League chairman, and Richard Scudamore, the chief executive. However, he said that he has raised the issue during regular meetings of the chairmen and his efforts have been rewarded.
"I have been pushing Scudamore and Richards to look into this and to their credit they have been pushing to do that," Whelan said. "I was asked by them if I had some patience and wait for them to investigate. I backed off and what they said came to fruition. I believe that Sheffield United have been very badly treated."
Whelan said that only Fulham supported the battle. "A lot of the clubs wanted it swept under the table," Whelan said. "They never backed Fulham and us up. The big clubs say, 'Let sleeping dogs lie'. People want a smooth ride. I feel sorry for West Ham fans but justice must seen to be done."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola urges West Ham players to forget club troubles
By Mirror Sport 10/01/2009
Gianfranco Zola wants his West Ham players to forget their club's troubles at Newcastle today as they seek to equal their best away run in eight years. The Hammers are still reeling from the announcement of a new FA and Premier League inquiry into the Carlos Tevez affair. But on the pitch the situation looks healthier after three straight wins and five games unbeaten on the road. Zola, who began his reign with a 3-1 home win over Newcastle in September, said: "The players are performing well but they can still improve. "The confidence is coming back to everyone - even the manager!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ex-Spurs and Hammers striker fined over 'Palestine' goal celebration
Northampton Chronicle
Published Date: 10 January 2009
Former Tottenham and West Ham striker Freddy Kanoute has been fined for a goal celebration in support of Palestine. The Sevilla striker was fined €3,000 by the Spanish Competition Committee for his celebration on Wednesday evening. The striker lifted his top to reveal a T-shirt with the word Palestine across the front, as well as words in Arabic. Players are banned from revealing a religious or political messages. Kanoute received thanks following the message though from many fans, and also from the Palestine embassy in Spain.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: ZOLA TOLD HE MUST SELL HAMMERS STARS
Daily Express
Saturday January 10,2009
By Matt Law and Gideon Brooks
GIANFRANCO ZOLA has been told he will have to rebuild his West Ham squad from scratch in the summer – regardless of the result of the Premier League's new Carlos Tevez inquiry. The cash-strapped Hammers face the threat of a heavy fine or a points deduction and still have Sheffield United's compensation claim hanging over them. But whatever happens with the two investigations, Zola already knows that his current playing staff will largely be sold off and he will have to build a new team in preparation for next season. The Hammers fear they have become the subject of a witch-hunt over the Carlos Tevez affair, but are convinced they will be cleared of further wrongdoing. And there is confidence at Upton Park that far from weakening them further, the new probe will end up strengthening their case in the ongoing dispute over compensation with Sheffield United. West Ham also remain privately confident that the length of any fresh inquiry will rule out any possible points deduction this season. However, the club are furious that the launch of what they feel is a pointless new inquiry will scare off any potential buyers for the club and encourage the clubs circling around their top names to redouble their efforts to prise the players away.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bellamy holds out for Tottenham move in face of Hughes interest
Striker believes regular football more likely at Spurs
North Londoners keen to avoid bidding war with City
Jamie Jackson The Guardian, Saturday 10 January 2009
Craig Bellamy would prefer to join Tottenham Hotspur rather than Manchester City and faces a stand-off with West Ham United if he is to leave the club, because City can offer a far bigger fee for the striker.
City have "made two substantial bids and are desperate to sign" the Wales international, according to an Upton Park executive, who said that Spurs had not made an offer. Tottenham are understood to be keeping only a watching brief on Bellamy after signing Jermain Defoe this week.
Bellamy, though, does not want to leave for City despite the presence of Mark Hughes, his former Blackburn Rovers and Wales manager, who is keen to pair him with Roque Santa Cruz if he can prise the Paraguayan from Ewood Park.
It is thought Bellamy believes a move to Spurs would give him a better chance of regular first-team football and fears becoming lost in a City squad which is bound to increase in depth and quality as the billionaire Abu Dhabi owners continue to spend.
Tottenham are keen to avoid a bidding war that only City can win , while West Ham believe that Hughes is likely to make a third offer early next week.
The situation is further confused because Spurs have not made an offer to West Ham and, with the arrival this week of Jermain Defoe, are, it is understood, happy to keep only a watching brief with regard to Bellamy.
Having now sold Matthew Etherington to Stoke City for £2m, loaned Lee Bowyer to Birmingham City and with Calum Davenport's imminent departure, West Ham are maintaining they will not be forced to sell any of their best players. Yet the club accept Bellamy is the most likely to leave of a group that also includes Robert Green, Matthew Upson and Scott Parker.
While the 29-year-old is keen to depart because of an 18 months in which he has made only 19 league starts, it is also understood there is a feeling in east London that he has under performed since joining from Liverpool for £7.5m.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
TEVEZ PROBE SCARES OFF BUYERS
Daily Express
Saturday January 10,2009
By Gideon Brooks Have your say(1)
West Ham are furious that the launch of what they feel is a pointless new inquiry into the Carlos Tevez affair will scare off any potential buyers for the club. The Hammers had attracted five interested parties after being put up for sale by owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson before Christmas. But after Thursday's announcement of a joint Football Association and Premier League inquiry raised the prospect of a possible points deduction, any sale now looks unlikely. The club are battling difficult financial conditions on all fronts – a fact that has alerted more solvent clubs to the possibility of poaching their best players. Gudmundsson's business empire has taken a hit of £250million in the credit crunch, while Sheffield United's pursuit for compensation over their relegation in 2007 is another bill ready to land before the season is out. West Ham were prepared to accept less than the £250m valuation, but a removal from the market now seems the likeliest option. The Hammers remain frustrated with the timing of the new inquiry, which comes while they are trying to defend their best assets from predatory approaches during the transfer window. But they are at least confident that the legal process will drag on beyond the end of this season, thereby saving them from any possible points deduction this term. And following an investigation into Sheffield United's books, West Ham's accountants now estimate the Blades suffered losses of only £8m and not the £50m they claim.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rivals ready to pounce in Carlos Tevez affair
The Times
West Ham will find no shortage of law-suits should they be found guilty after the latest investigation into the Carlos Tevez affair
Gary Jacob
The Carlos Tévez affair widened last night, with Fulham considering a compensation claim against West Ham United should it be proved that the East London club breached further Premier League rules. Fulham, and possibly Wigan Athletic, are looking into whether they are entitled to additional prize-money that they would have received had West Ham not finished directly above them at the end of the 2006-07 season. In Fulham's case, the figure would amount to about £500,000.
West Ham are confident that no further charges will be brought after the FA and Premier League ordered a fresh inquiry into the Tévez affair. The new investigation will focus on assurances made by the club to the League that ensured that Tévez was able to play in the final three matches of the 2006-07 two years ago.
West Ham believe that they are caught in a power struggle between the FA and Premier League and have questioned the timing of the announcement of an inquiry, because it comes four months after an arbitration panel ruled that the club were liable to compensate Sheffield United.
West Ham, who believe that the inquiry will jeopardise their ability to sell the club, have been given 14 days to submit any evidence before the FA and League consider whether there is a case to answer. The club claim that any points deduction, if they were to be found guilty of any charges that are subsequently brought, would not apply to this season.
Ruling of Lord Griffiths on Carlos Tevez could lead to all kinds of recriminations, with opinions becoming hard facts
West Ham were fined £5.5 million in April 2007 by an independent tribunal, set up by the League, for an admitted breach of rules in the transfer of Tévez. Sheffield United claimed that the Argentina striker's goals were instrumental in West Ham's survival in the 2006-07 season.
Despite sources close to the case insisting that West Ham were told they would face no further charges, the League has denied that this was the case. "As announced yesterday, the Premier League and the FA have instituted a joint inquiry into the views expressed by the Independent Arbitral Tribunal chaired by Lord Griffiths," the League said in a statement. "The inquiry will examine whether the conduct of West Ham United immediately after the Independent Disciplinary Commission's decision of 27 April 2007 amounted to further breaches of Premier League or FA Rules. It is categorically not the case that the club has been informed that no charges will flow, as suggested in The Times yesterday. If there is any evidence of wrongdoing by any party, this will be pursued by the relevant regulatory authority."
Dave Whelan believes that the truth may finally emerge after spending two years campaigning. The Wigan chairman has been an outspoken critic of West Ham and the League over its handling of the Tévez transfer. In May 2007, Whelan called for the resignation of Sir Dave Richards, the Premier League chairman, and Richard Scudamore, the chief executive. However, he said that he has raised the issue during regular meetings of the chairmen and his efforts have been rewarded.
"I have been pushing Scudamore and Richards to look into this and to their credit they have been pushing to do that," Whelan said. "I was asked by them if I had some patience and wait for them to investigate. I backed off and what they said came to fruition. I believe that Sheffield United have been very badly treated."
Whelan said that only Fulham supported the battle. "A lot of the clubs wanted it swept under the table," Whelan said. "They never backed Fulham and us up. The big clubs say, 'Let sleeping dogs lie'. People want a smooth ride. I feel sorry for West Ham fans but justice must seen to be done."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Posts
