Friday, April 30

Daily WHUFC News - 30th April 2010

West Ham's David Gold regrets Fulham team complaint
BBC.co.uk

West Ham co-owner David Gold says the club were wrong to complain about
Fulham's line-up in the Premier League loss to Hull in March. "We were upset
and we probably reacted in haste and passion," admitted Gold. "Of course,
if you put out the ladies team then what's going to happen," he said of
Fulham's 2-0 defeat that day. Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola has said the
issue may add extra spice to Sunday's London derby between the sides at
Craven Cottage. Zola disagreed with the club's original complaint to the
Premier League, after Fulham boss Roy Hodgson decided to rest five key
players against Hull with an eye on a midweek Europa League quarter-final
tie with Wolfsburg. Bobby Zamora, Danny Murphy, Damien Duff, Aaron Hughes
and Dickson Etuhu all missed the defeat, which allowed the Tigers to pull
level with West Ham at the time, but the likes of Chris Smalling and Clint
Dempsey did play. With Premier League survival now all-but certain, Gold
admits the club regret their actions. "We were very disappointed about the
decision to put that team out at the time," admitted Gold. "Let me tell you
though, I would have done the same thing. I would have put out the ladies
team if I had been Fulham.
"They were beaten 2-0 by Hull and you're thinking 'come on, how can that
be?' but of course if you put out the ladies team then that's what's going
to happen."
The Hammers hierarchy lodged an official complaint on 2 April but nothing
has been made of the matter since. Gold's fellow co-owner David Sullivan
admitted this week he had attempted to withdraw the complaint and the
Premier League confirm that they are still to receive Fulham's response to
the allegations. The two clubs are already at loggerheads after Fulham
claimed they were owed £450,000 compensation because West Ham finished one
position above them in the 2006-07 season when they included the
illegitimately-registered Carlos Tevez among their ranks. Sullivan is
reportedly ready to donate £100,000 to charity if Fulham scrap their bid for
compensation and Gold now hopes the two clubs can move on from the latest
episode in their feud. "We're big boys and we'll move on now," he added.
Gold and Sullivan took over debt-ridden West Ham in January. They were
previously in charge of Birmingham City for 16 years until selling to Hong
Kong billCarson Yeung in October 2009.

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Hammers ready to strengthen
Gold not ruling out second bid for Dorrans
Last updated: 29th April 2010
SSN

David Gold has declared that West Ham will 'push the boat out' to bring in
quality players this summer. Gold's co-owner David Sullivan announced
earlier this week that he would listen to offers for every player at the
club, with the exception of Scott Parker. Sullivan's comments sparked fears
that many of West Ham's star performers could leave Upton Park, but Gold
maintains that they will try to strengthen the squad rather than weaken it.
The Hammers have been embroiled in a relegation battle all season and Gold
knows spending will be required if they are to push up the table. "If there
are quality players that we fancy then we'll push the boat out to get them,"
he said. "We're an ambitious football club and it's time we turned the tide
and started pushing forward. We will be looking to bring in some new
players."
Gold and Sullivan provided funds to Gianfranco Zola in January and will
continue to back him in the next transfer market, although the financial
situation at the club remains delicate. "There will be money available but
we won't put the club at risk. We will not increase the debt at West Ham,"
explained Gold. "Our job is to reduce the debt and at the same time to
improve and deal with the squad. If that means we have to put some money in
then that's what we'll do. "We don't want this relegation battle to happen
again next year. It'll be much more difficult to stay up. "We are not going
to put the club's financial problems into any further difficulties, if we do
this it will be with our own money."
Gold also revealed West Ham could lodge a second bid for West Brom
midfielder Graham Dorrans after having a £4million offer knocked back this
week. "Everyone was involved in the decision making. Nobody is precluded
from it," said Gold. "A second bid is possible. He is one of the players we
are looking at. "We'll have to wait and see what happens on that. The player
is a favourite of mine. "He is a young British player who we like but having
said that, sometimes deals don't work out and you have to move on."

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Gold sorry for Cottagers blast
The Sun
Published: 29 Apr 2010

WEST HAM co-owner David Gold has apologised for complaining about Fulham's
weakened team. Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson decided to rest five players for
their match with the Hammers' relegation rivals Hull in March. They lost
2-0, handing the Tigers a lifeline in their survival bid and denting West
Ham's hopes. But now the Hammers are safe, Gold has retracted the appeal he
made to the Premier League. He said: "I think we were upset at the time and
we probably reacted in haste and passion. "I have to say that we were very
upset and that we were in such a scary position. "It's horrible being right
down there when you are a club of such might as West Ham. "We were very
disappointed about the decision to put that team out at the time. "Let me
tell you though, I would have done the same thing. I would have put out the
ladies team if I had been Fulham. "They were beaten 2-0 by Hull and you're
thinking 'come on, how can that be?' but of course if you put out the ladies
team then that's what's going to happen."

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Fulham v West Ham United: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Fulham and West
Ham United at Craven Cottage on Sunday May 2 2010, kick-off 15.00 BST.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Ley
Published: 6:00AM BST 30 Apr 2010

Sunday, May 2
Fulham v West Ham United
Craven Cottage
Kick-off: 15.00 BST
TV: BBC Two MotD2

Fulham may be suffering from a hangover following Thursday's Europa League
semi-final, second leg against Hamburg. And manager Roy Hodgson could make
changes, as he did after the first leg in Germany. Fulham have gone three
Premier League games without a win, taking two points from nine and scoring
just one goal  at Everton last Sunday. But at Craven Cottage they have won
10 and lost just four of 17 home games and have conceded just 12 goals.
Their previous fewest conceded in the Premier League is 16, in the 2001-02
campaign. West Ham are as good as safe, needing one point to be
mathematically certain of another Prewmier League campaign, but they have
won just one away game this season, on the opening day at Wolves. Jack
Collison, James Tomkins, Kieron Dyer, Zavon Hines and Herita Ilunga are out.


Fulham (4-4-2): Schwarzer; Pantsil, Baird, Smalling, Shorey; Dempsey,
Dikgacoi, Greening, Riise; Okaka, Nevland.
West Ham (4-4-2): Green; Faubert, da Costa, Upson, Spector; Behrami, Parker,
Kovac, Noble; Ilan, Cole.
Referee: Andre Marriner. Matches: 26. R 9. Y 96.

This season: West Ham 2 Fulham 2.
Last season: Fulham 1 West Ham 2, West Ham 3 Fulham 1.
Stat of the game: Fulham have won 33 of their 43 points at Craven Cottage
this season.
Betting tip: West Ham to take advantage of Fulham's European excesses. A 1-0
away win is 15-2.

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Zola's Cryptic Comment and who is calling the shots on transfer policy?
West Ham Till I Die

Zola made an interesting, cryptic comment in his Wigan post-match
interviews. He was reported in the Sports Telegraph as stating that:

"Staying up would be a big, big deal because we've had to deal with so many
problems this season. You only know half of them.

"It's been difficult, but despite that we've stuck together. It's been an
emotional year and Scott [Parker]'s goal was an unbelievable moment.

Mmmm …. 'You only know half of them' And it was thought that West Ham's
problems this season were very well known and widely publicised. Have other
things occurred behind the scenes, of which we are unaware? I previously
speculated that there may be unknown factors involved when, in a recent blog
post, I made my 'There is something rotten in the state of Denmark'
argument. This cryptic comment by Zola may substantiate at that suspicion.


Now we have David Sullivans' reported comments on the whole squad being up
for sale, at the right price, except Scott Parker. If you look at the
substance of Sullivan's statement it is reasonable. Certainly a radical
restructure of the squad is clearly necessary if further struggle is to be
avoided next season. Although I would also argue that there is a core of
players in the current squad, beyond Parker, that we would want to retain
next season.

However, it is a matter of 'cause and effect,' in the sense that he may have
made these comments for good reason, but thought needed to be given to how
it is going to be spun and presented in the media. Would it not have been
better to just say, the squad needs strengthening, we cannot afford to
struggle again next season and that improvement will mean radical change,
with some players leaving and others arriving ….. full stop! If the whole
squad, bar Scott Parker, is up for sale, keep it to yourself and use it as a
determinant of your transfer strategy, observing the protocols like
involving the manager in the decisions. Some things just do not need to be
said publicly!

The 'effect 'of recent statements is that you get the media playing up
alleged internal divisions at the club and nonsense articles appearing like
that published in the Sports Mail yesterday. The sub-text of that article
was one of a 'fire sale' in which our players are up for grabs at silly
prices, particularly the youngsters. Sullivan should have been at pains to
stipulate that the Tomkins, Collisons, Nobles and Hines were are not for
sale. Indeed, this is a key message that I want to see underlined, that the
Academy is vital to the future success of the club and that our major
prospects are not going to be flogged off.

There was another interesting aspect to the story and it is that enquiries
have commenced to secure posible summer tranfer targets. On the face of it
that is a positive thing, it will be a good to get off the transfer starting
blocks quickly for a change. It does, however, raise the question, who is
calling the shots on transfer policy? We are told that Zola sees himself as
a coach who trains and prepares the first team squad and that he has less
interest in identifying transfer targets!!!! That's crazy in the extreme,
what coach would not want to determine the players to be recruited or sold?
Has Zola not previously stated, prior to the takeover, that he has the final
word on transfers? So, what has changed?

Zola may see himself as a coach in the continental model, but he must
provide an assessment of the squad and a list of targets to pursue. If
David Sullivan's role is negotiate and make it happen then that is fine.
For instance, Daniel Levy has a similar role at Spurs, There is no need for
Zola to get bogged down on the mechanics of transfers, such dealing with
agents and negotiating contract terms.

The alternative is that it may be the case that the right and proper line of
demarcation between the executive management and football management of the
club have become blurred. Do we as supporters really want non-football
people assessing the squad and deciding transfer targets? I think not.

Even if Zola is to depart in the summer, is it wise to recruit players
without the approval of any successor? Personally, I think that this
situation needs to be clarified and confirmation provided on the way that
transfer policy works/is to work at the club.

If Zola stays, is there a case for an older, more experienced figure coming
in as a general manager/director of football to work with Zola on the
macro-strategic football issues? Perhaps Nani did not have the right
background or skills/knowledge set, but an older, experienced former manager
might be able to play a strategic role and provide expert advice and support
to Zola if things are not going well? Obviously, such a figure would need
to be someone that Zola respects and can work with and who is not perceived
as a managerial alternative waiting in the wings.

Finally, the club have now announced the cost of season tickets for next
season. They have confirmed that they will freeze prices at the 2009-10
levels for renewals and new applications received by 30 June 2010. So it
would seem that existing commitments have been honoured and the temptation
to quickly try to raise income via season ticket sales has been resisted.

Mind you, in retrospect, could you imagine trying to hike prices in the
aftermath of the current dire season. No, neither can I!

SJ. Chandos.

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West Ham co-owners pledge to fund transfer ambitions
David Gold says owners will plough own money into club
'If there are players we fancy then we'll push the boat out'
guardian.co.uk, Thursday 29 April 2010 14.55 BST

David Gold has revealed he and his fellow West Ham United co-owner David
Sullivan will "push the boat out" and dip into their own pockets to buy the
"quality" players which he believes are required to keep the club in the
Premier League next season.

The millionaire duo gave the Hammers manager, Gianfranco Zola, funds to buy
Benni McCarthy, Ilan and Mido soon after completing a £50million takeover in
January.

Sullivan said this week that West Ham would consider offers for all their
players apart from the captain Scott Parker, who all but secured the
Hammers' top-flight status by scoring the winner against Wigan on Saturday.

Gold said yesterday that Sullivan's comments had been misinterpreted and
assured worried fans he wanted the Hammers' best players to stay at the
club.

"If there are quality players that we fancy then we'll push the boat out to
get them," Gold said. "We're an ambitious football club and it's time we
turned the tide and started pushing forward. We will be looking to bring in
some new players.

"There will be money available but we won't put the club at risk. We will
not increase the debt at West Ham. Our job is to reduce the debt and at the
same time to improve and deal with the squad. If that means we have to put
some money in then that's what we'll do.

"We don't want this relegation battle to happen again next year. It'll be
much more difficult to stay up. We are not going to put the club's financial
problems into any further difficulties. If we do this it will be with our
own money."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Top Three: West Ham United players of the season
Sport.co.uk
Author: Jonny Abrams
Posted on:29 April 2010 - 17:36

Gianfranco Zola may have earned himself a stay of execution at Upton Park
after just about steering West Ham United to Premier League safety. Some
might argue that the Hammers have only stayed up by virtue of the sides
below them being so wretched but there is enough young talent in West Ham's
squad to suggest that Zola's impressive first season as manager was no
fluke. Sport.co.uk selects our Top Three West Ham United players of the
2009/2010 season…

3. Ilan – In a season where West Ham United have not exactly been spoilt for
choice with outstanding performers, 29 year-old Brazilian-Italian striker
Ilan is worthy of a spot in our Top Three despite only making 9 appearances
so far for the Hammers. Gianfranco Zola brought him to Upton Park with
hardly any of the transfer window left and it's turned out to be the piece
of business that has saved West Ham from the drop, with Ilan having notched
a late equaliser at Everton, a winner against Sunderland and another in the
recent 3-2 win over Wigan Athletic at Upton Park.

2. Julien Faubert – If you'd told a West Ham United fan this time last year
that Julien Faubert would be arguably 'Hammer of the Year (except for Scott
Parker)' for 2009-2010…well, they'd have taken a moment to digest what you'd
just said before laughing heartily at you. As it happens, the Frenchman has
been one of the standout performers at Upton Park this season, making the
right-back position his own and attacking with purpose and, occasionally,
the kind of sublime cross from which Ilan scored at Goodison Park.

1. Scott Parker – The former Charlton Athletic, Newcastle United and Chelsea
midfielder is as easy a choice to be West Ham's player of the season as
Wayne Rooney is for Manchester United. Parker has been the shining light in
a dismal season and his impact has been such that Davids Gold and Sullivan
have announced that the whole squad is up for sale except for him. Combining
an all-action style with leadership qualities and no little skill, Parker is
a West Ham legend-in-the-making.

Honourable mentions:

Guillermo Franco has done well and Carlton Cole has scored some useful
goals. That's about it, really.

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EXCLUSIVE: WAGE CAP FOR WEST HAM'S ZOLA
Daily Express
Thursday April 29,2010
By Tony Banks Have your say(0)

WEST HAM'S owners are planning to impose a swingeing wage cap on the club
next season. West Ham co-owner David Sullivan's call for a cap to be imposed
on all Premier League clubs has been met with little response. But he is
planning to put his own model into operation next term Sullivan has warned
that any new players brought in will have to settle for wages of about
£20-25,000 a week West Ham have already put all but one of their squad up
for sale after just about scraping their way to safety this season under
Gianfranco Zola Big earners like England pair Matthew Upson and Robert
Green, and Carlton Cole are set to be offloaded, if the right offers come
in, as Sullivan attempts to cut a wage bill of about £60million by a third
Only midfielder Scott Parker is safe from the ruthless cull.

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West Ham given pot of Gold to spend this summer as Hammers chief vows to buy
quality
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 1:24 AM on 30th April 2010
Daily Mail

David Gold has revealed he and fellow West Ham co-owner David Sullivan will
'push the boat out' and dip into their own pockets to buy the 'quality'
players which he believes are required to keep the club in the Barclays
Premier League. The millionaire duo gave Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola funds
to buy the likes of Benni McCarthy, Ilan and Mido soon after completing a
£50million takeover in January. Sullivan said on Tuesday West Ham would
consider offers for all their players apart from captain Scott Parker, who
all but secured the Hammers' top-flight status by scoring the winner against
Wigan on Saturday. Gold said yesterday Sullivan's comments had been
misinterpreted and assured worried fans he wanted the Hammers' best players
to stay at the club. The players' loyalty to manager Gianfranco Zola could
mean a number may follow the Italian out of the door should he decide to
leave this summer. Now the former Birmingham chairman has confirmed the
Hammers will 'push the boat out" if required to make big-money signings this
summer, regardless of whether Zola remains at Upton Park.
'If there are quality players that we fancy then we'll push the boat out to
get them,' Gold told Press Association Sport. 'We're an ambitious football
club and it's time we turned the tide and started pushing forward. We will
be looking to bring in some new players.' The club were heading towards
administration with debts of around £110million before Gold and Sullivan
took over from Icelandic bank Straumur at Upton Park in January. Of that
debt around £50million is owed to banks and £40million to other clubs for
transfer fees. The duo embarked upon a radical cost-cutting venture to try
to cut the club's debts and they have even been paying vice-chairman Karren
Brady out of their own pockets for the last three months.
Gold insists any move to sign new players will jeopardise their long-term
aim of getting the Hammers out of the red though. 'There will be money
available but we won't put the club at risk. We will not increase the debt
at West Ham. 'Our job is to reduce the debt and at the same time to improve
and deal with the squad. If that means we have to put some money in then
that's what we'll do. 'We don't want this relegation battle to happen again
next year. It'll be much more difficult to stay up. 'We are not going to put
the club's financial problems into any further difficulties, if we do this
it will be with our own money.' The club have already had a £4million bid
for Graham Dorrans rejected by West Brom. Gold, who insisted Zola was part
of the decision to make a move for the Scotland midfielder, admits the club
could return with a second bid for the player. 'Everyone was involved in the
decision making. Nobody is precluded from it,' said the 73-year-old. 'A
second bid is possible. He is one of the players we are looking at. 'We'll
have to wait and see what happens on that. The player is a favourite of
mine. 'He is a young British player who we like but having said that,
sometimes deals don't work out and you have to move on.'

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West Ham saviour Scott Parker gives up hope on making England's squad for
South Africa
By Christopher Davies Last updated at 1:23 PM on 29th April 2010
Daily Mail

Scott Parker, whose winner against Wigan last weekend all but saved West Ham
from Barclays Premier League relegation, has given up hope of being part of
England's World Cup squad. The midfielder has been the Hammers' outstanding
performer this season and, at 29, the midfielder is hardly too old for an
international recall. Parker has not played for England since the 2006
defeat by Croatia in Zagreb. Fabio Capello included him in the squad for the
friendly against Germany in November 2008 but he was an unused substitute in
Berlin. He said: 'It's nice that people ask me about England but I think if
I had a chance to go to South Africa I would probably have been called into
the squad by now. 'All I can do is play for West Ham and if I can help
produce results maybe it might be good enough. It's not a frustration not
being picked, it's part and parcel of the game.
'When you are rewarded with international call-ups it is great and if it
happens, I'll be ready to go. I don't think it will happen though.'

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West Ham boss Zola ready to make comeback for Carr testimonial
30.04.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola is ready to pull on the boots again for
Tony Carr's testimonial next week. The highly-regarded Academy Director has
been honoured with a Testimonial match and the manager is keen that everyone
come along to show their support for a game that could feature the likes of
Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole. Zola told whufc.com: "It has been
good to work with Tony Carr. I have players in my team that are important
players who come from the Academy. That tells you the good work he has been
doing throughout the years and now. "He is a person that has done very well
for this club and his work ethic is very good. It has been a pleasure to
work with him this season. He has done a brilliant job not only for West Ham
but for the whole nation. So many important and influential players that are
with the national team have started here and that tells you what he is all
about."
In many ways, the two men have a similar approach, with Zola all about
developing talent and giving it full chance to shine - just like Carr, who
has been doing it for 37 years.
"Working with young players is what I like. The policy we have at this club
is ideal because I want that in my team, the chance for young players to
come in and do the job. His principles and his work marries with what we are
trying to do in the first team."

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West Ham offer defenders for Tottenham midfielder O'Hara
30.04.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United are preparing a swap offer for Tottenham midfielder Jamie
O'Hara. The Telegraph says the Hammers are considering offering either
captain Matthew Upson or James Tomkins to Tottenham in return for O'Hara,
currently on-loan at Portsmouth. Tottenham have long shown an interest in
Upson, who was wanted by Liverpool last year, and who has just one-year left
on his contract and has indicated that he does not want to sign a new deal
and would like to leave. However given his age, 31, and wages, he earns
£65,000-a-week, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy may not be interested. Tomkins,
who is regarded as one of the best young English prospects, although he has
struggled this season in a struggling team, may at 21 be a more attractive
proposition.

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West Ham inform Diamanti to find new club
30.04.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United have told Alessandro Diamanti he can go. The Telegraph says
Diamanti's agent, Luca Puccinelli, was called by West Ham vice-chairman
Karren Brady on Wednesday and told to find another club for his client, who
has failed to impress co-chairman David Sullivan, who is now in charge of
transfers. Puccinelli has sought a meeting with Brady but has been told
there is no point because Diamanti, who is close to manager Gianfranco Zola,
is not wanted. Guillermo Franco has also been told he will not have his
one-year contract renewed.

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Thursday, April 29

Daily WHUFC News - 29th April 2010

Zola to honour Carr
WHUFC.com
The West Ham United manager is up for playing again at Tony Carr's Testimonial match on Wednesday
29.04.2010

Gianfranco Zola is looking forward to "a very special night" when West Ham United take on Tony Carr's Academy All-Stars next Wednesday at the Boleyn Ground. The highly-regarded Academy Director has been honoured with a Testimonial match and the manager is keen that everyone come along to show their support for a game that could feature the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole. "I wish Tony all the best. He has been very supportive of me and his work has been brilliant at this club for so long.

"I really hope as many supporters as possible come along to support Tony. He really deserves this match for everything he has done. He has given so much to this club and I am really hoping that a lot of people will turn up. It will be a great night. I know it has been a hard season for the fans but it will be nice to have as many as possible there on Wednesday."

Zola, who revealed he "would be proud" to don his boots and represent West Ham United on the night, added that the two have a strong working relationship. "It has been good to work with Tony Carr. I have players in my team that are important players who come from the Academy. That tells you the good work he has been doing throughout the years and now.

"He is a person that has done very well for this club and his work ethic is very good. It has been a pleasure to work with him this season. He has done a brilliant job not only for West Ham but for the whole nation. So many important and influential players that are with the national team have started here and that tells you what he is all about."

In many ways, the two men have a similar approach, with Zola all about developing talent and giving it full chance to shine - just like Carr, who has been doing it for 37 years. "Working with young players is what I like. The policy we have at this club is ideal because I want that in my team, the chance for young players to come in and do the job. His principles and his work marries with what we are trying to do in the first team."

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Hammer of the Year update
WHUFC.com
There has been a huge response with 24,000 votes cast ahead of the poll closing on Friday morning
29.04.2010

There is just a day to go to have your say for the Hammer of the Year 2009/10 sponsored by Vantis in association with the West Ham United Supporters Club. The prestigious award, which has been won by so many famous faces over the years, will be presented to the player with the highest number of votes at the last home game of the season against Manchester City on Sunday 9 May, having been officially announced at the official End of Season Awards dinner. More than 24,000 votes have been cast by supporters already in the three available categories, and whufc.com users have until 10am on Friday to make sure they are included. Online votes will be added to those received by the club through the post and email. The vote is particularly close in two of the three categories, with little between the top two.

As an added bonus, fans can also vote for their whufc.com Goal of the Season from a selection of five great strikes and, new this year, is the Performance of the Season prize, with another five nominees shortlisted. As usual, the Young Hammer of the Year and the Doris Bell Most Improved Player awards will be selected by Academy Director Tony Carr, while there is also a Players' Player prize for the first time.

To help fans make their choices for the Hammer of the Year, Goal of the Season and Performance of the Season a little bit easier, there are two exclusive videos available through the homepage freeplayer, which highlight some of the best moments of the 2009/10 season. You can also read more about the different categories at the bottom of this page.

To cast your vote, simply watch the two videos, pick your top player and favourite goal and click here to be taken to the voting registration page. As always, Tony Carr will decide the Young Hammer of the Year.

Scott Parker was the last player to be honoured with the Hammer of the Year award and he knows how much it would mean to the players to be named the 2009/10 winner.
He said: "It is a fantastic award. It was a great achievement for me personally and I am honoured to have won. It is particularly pleasing to have won an award voted by your own fans. It was a great achievement for me."

The 2009/10 Awards

Hammer of the Year - sponsored by Vantis
Young Hammer of the Year - sponsored by Pubpals
Goal of the Season - sponsored by Floyd Investments
Performance of the Season - sponsored by Compass
Top Goalscorer - sponsored by Kinetics
Players' Player - sponsored by Winged Boots

Goal of the Season - The Nominees

MARK NOBLE v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (A)

The 2009/10 Barclays Premier League season was just 22 minutes old when Mark Noble opened West Ham United's account at Molineux on 15 August.

The midfielder took Carlton Cole's square pass before leaving Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey with a delicious 25-yard curler that flew past the Wales stopper and into the top left-hand corner.

CARLTON COLE v TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR (H)

Carlton Cole brought everyone inside the Boleyn Ground to their feet with a rasping 25-yard strike against local rivals Tottenham Hotspur on 23 August.

The England striker controlled Luis Jimenez's header before turning Sebastien Bassong and belting the ball past Heurelho Gomes with an unstoppable left-foot shot.

ALESSANDRO DIAMANTI v BIRMINGHAM CITY (H)

Alessandro Diamanti picked the perfect moment to send an inch-perfect free-kick past Birmingham City goalkeeper Joe Hart to send West Ham United on the way to a 2-0 Barclays Premier League victory on 10 February.

The Italian maestro's strike, which came 80 seconds into added-time at the end of the first half, led to wild celebrations involving manager Gianfranco Zola and the whole team on the touchline.

SCOTT PARKER v CHELSEA (A)

West Ham United's former Chelsea midfielder Scott Parker reminded Blues fans what they have been missing when he scored an unforgettable goal at Stamford Bridge on 13 March.

The 29-year-old collected Kieron Dyer's throw-in before smashing a dipping volley past Ross Turnbull from long-range, giving the debutant goalkeeper absolutely no chance.

ILAN v EVERTON (A)

Having opened his account at Burnley in early February, Ilan scored his second goal for the club with a magnificent diving header at Everton on Easter Sunday.

The Brazil international threw himself full-length to nod Julien Faubert's inch-perfect cross past Tim Howard to secure a 2-2 draw at Goodison Park.

Performance of the Season - The Nominees

MARK NOBLE v WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS (A)

Home-grown Hammer Mark Noble got the season up and running with a virtuoso performance in the 2-0 opening-day Barclays Premier League victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers on 15 August.

Not only did the 22-year-old score a sublime first goal, but he also provided the corner for Matthew Upson to head home the second to make the game safe and secure three important points.

ROBERT GREEN v ASTON VILLA (H)

England's No1 was in almost unbeatable form against Martin O'Neill's Aston Villa, paving the way for a hugely significant 2-1 Barclays Premier League win over the UEFA Champions League hopefuls on 4 November.

Robert Green had already produced a world-class stop to deny Stiliyan Petrov and also kept out a Gabriel Agbonlahor effort before he capped a fine night by saving an Ashley Young penalty.

ZAVON HINES v ASTON VILLA (H)

Substitute Zavon Hines could never have imagined the impact he would have on the game when he replaced an injured Carlton Cole 32 minutes into Aston Villa's Barclays Premier League visit to the Boleyn Ground on 4 November.

The 21-year-old striker announced his arrival by forcing Habib Beye to concede a 45th-minute penalty, which was converted by Mark Noble. Hines then completed an amazing night's work by stabbing a dramatic winner past Brad Friedel in the third minute of added-time.

ALESSANDRO DIAMANTI v BIRMINGHAM CITY (H)

The outpouring of emotion that greeted Alessandro Diamanti's inch-perfect free-kick against Birmingham City on 10 February showed just how much it meant to both the Italian and his team-mates.

On seeing his strike hit the back of Joe Hart's net, the 27-year-old raced 40 yards to embrace manager Gianfranco Zola before being engulfed by the rest of the squad. West Ham United would go on to win the match 2-0.

JULIEN FAUBERT v HULL CITY (H)

The France right-back marked his 50th appearance in a West Ham United shirt by producing the best performance of his three-year stay in east London, scoring one fine goal and providing another for Carlton Cole.

Faubert's assist came first as he curled an outstanding pass around Hull City left-back Andy Dawson and into the path of Cole, who needed just one touch to slot the ball past goalkeeper Boaz Myhill. Then, in added-time, the 26-year-old picked up possession before rifling an angled drive past the goalkeeper from 20 yards.

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Ladies going for promotion
WHUFC.com
Tony Marshall's team face four titanic matches to decide whether they can reach the Premier Division
29.04.2010

West Ham United Ladies go into this Sunday's match with last-placed Crystal Palace fighting fit and ready to push for promotion. With a reorganisation in the national game, there is a possibility of two promotion places to the Premier League from the Southern Division. The Hammers are third with four matches to play but are still to meet two of their rivals for the runners-up spot. Reading, who the club welcome on the last day, are currently second with three more points. After going to Palace this Sunday, Tony Marshall's team will travel to runaway leaders Barnet on the following Thursday. The season will finish with two home matches. The first is against Portsmouth, level on 32 points with the Hammers, at Thurrock on 9 May before the campaign ends with a huge match at Little Heath against Reading on 16 May. Looking ahead to perhaps the biggest month in the club's history, Marshall said: "It is all to play for as it will all come down to our last three games. We have a superior goal difference but we need at least three wins from the four matches overall."
The Ladies team are on a high after coming from behind last weekend to win 4-1 against Brighton and Hove Albion. The Hammers were a goal down at the interval but battled back through two goals from Gemma Shepherd (pictured) and further strikes from Carly Roache and Becky Merritt to turn the game around.

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Upson still up for it
WHUFC.com
The club captain has paid tribute to the fans as he and the squad prepare for Sunday's final awayday
28.04.2010

Matthew Upson has spoken of the determination in the squad to finish the season in the strongest possible way - starting with victory away to Fulham on Sunday. With top-flight status all but assured, the captain said the team owe it to the fans to give them as much as possible to cheer before the curtain closes on a "turbulent season". There have been many changes from the back four he marshalled to good effect in the previous campaign but Upson has paid tribute to the rearguard's resolve. "The defence has had to change a lot this season after last year's consistency but we have all got on with it," Upson said. "A lot of young players have come in and got experience that will really help them in the future. It has been a turbulent time with so many things happening but whoever has gone out there has done their best. "We have come through and, with all that has surrounded the club, we have achieved the main objective as the season progressed, which was survival. The campaign turned into a battle and it is good to come out on top from that. It would be nice not to experience that again and I am sure the club can build on this. "There has been a lot of pressure. Aside from the relegation battle, there is the general pressure of playing at West Ham United and what is expected from us every time we run out on that pitch. I have always said I enjoy that. "I would rather play for a club that is demanding and has the harsh realities that come with playing here. I enjoy it here because you have to give everything each time you play."
Upson will do just that on Sunday as the club look to move up the standings, with each league position bringing increased financial rewards to the club. "It is important that we carry on in the same fashion we have lately, with the same attitude and application. "The supporters need to see us do well in the last two games but we also know there is a financial incentive for the club for us to finish as high as we can. There is a lot of pride in the squad and management team to get more points and we will be up for it. "Even when things have not gone so well, the fans have always been there home and away. None of us take that for granted and there have been many games when we have been in awe of the support."
After Fulham and once the full-time whistle blows against Manchester City on Sunday week, Upson admitted his thoughts would turn to England and the summer. "On a personal note, I have the incentive to play well because I want to be involved in a World Cup squad. "It would be an honour to represent West Ham United at the finals but I know my performances have to be better than ever. Making sure we get the job done is the main thing but this is also an incentive for me to be at my best. "You have to have the expectation to win. That is what top-level sport is all about. The club has high standards and the fans demand it. "

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Matthew Upson confident of England place
BBC.co.uk
By Alistair Magowan

West Ham's Matthew Upson believes he is the number one contender to partner John Terry if Rio Ferdinand's injury problems resurface at the World Cup. England captain Ferdinand has suffered back and groin problems this season. And competition for the centre-back slot has seen calls for Tottenham's Ledley King and Michael Dawson to join the squad in South Africa. "Going on the last few internationals I'd have to say I do feel like I am the next in line," Upson told BBC Sport. "But football changes very quickly so you can never rest back and take that for granted, so I think it's important you keep on top of your game and keep wanting to improve to secure your place."
Ferdinand has played 19 matches for Manchester United this season, plus another seven for England, but his season has been a stop-start affair because of a succession of injuries. Under England boss Fabio Capello, Upson's emergence as Ferdinand's replacement has seen the former Birmingham defender start nine of England's 17 matches since the beginning of the World Cup qualifying campaign. And although he is still regarded as playing second fiddle to former England skipper Terry, England have been defeated only once when Upson has featured - the 1-0 loss in a friendly to Brazil. "I've really enjoyed playing and it has been a good run of games ever since Mr Capello took over as manager so I have enjoyed every minute of it," Upson told BBC Sport at the launch of the Football Association's England Football Day. "Getting back into playing football at this level is why I get out of bed in the morning. It drives me on and I've really enjoyed being in the squad again."
Upson's form for England has come at a time when the defender has suffered testing times at club level. Six straight defeats in February and March had West Ham staring relegation in the face and they only managed to effectively secure their Premier League status last Saturday after beating Wigan. The players, as well as manager Gianfranco Zola, have come under fire from co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold and the latest outburst by Sullivan saw him made it clear that the entire Hammers squad - with the exception of Scott Parker - was available for the right price.
Declining to answer questions about his future, the Hammers skipper said: "It has been a challenge to cope with the situations on and off the field at the club, it hasn't been easy at times but if anything it makes you a stronger character. "Having had that kind of adversity throughout the year, hopefully it will be nice to get some different kind of problems and a different feeling with England. "It's been a difficult time at West Ham, we're safe now and I'm pleased that that's happened and hopefully the club can build on that. But it will be nice to go into the tournament - hopefully at the other end of the scale."
Upson said he still harboured ambitions to play in the Champions League again, having tasted European football when he was a youngster at Arsenal. And he said he had responded to Capello's disciplined approach to give him belief to play at the highest level. "Capello knows what he wants and if players can't deliver that to him then he lets you know," Upson added. "Whether it's an arm around the shoulder to be told quietly or if it's in front of everyone in a meeting, he's got his style and his fashion of getting his message across and at times it's not for the faint-hearted. "If he's not happy with something then quite rightly he tells you and that level of discipline needs to happen and I think it brings the best out in the group. "He likes to see players work hard; he likes to see you play with confidence, belief and with discipline and that's the key thing he has brought to the team. "I'm not just talking about behaviour, I'm talking about tactically out on the pitch and I think that's a trademark of his management. "He has huge respect throughout the squad and throughout the football world. His winning capabilities have been shown in the past and it would be great to see those capabilities at international level for England."

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Back of the net
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 28th April 2010
By: Staff Writer

David Sullivan has insisted that West Ham United will be net-spenders in the transfer market this summer. The club's joint-chairman was speaking about the forthcoming summer transfer window in which West Ham are expected to be one of the busier clubs, given remarks made by Sullivan at the weekend in which he hinted that a great number of current squad players will be put up for sale.

However in the week in which it was announced that season ticket prices were being frozen, he insisted that any outgoings will be superseded by the number of new arrivals. "There are still many things to be decided, such as whether Matthew Upson wants to sign a new contract," he told the Evening Standard. "But there must not be a repeat of last season when the club sold an important defender right at the start of the season.

"Let's not kid ourselves, we haven't done well enough this season and I don't think anyone would disagree with that. What I would say, though, is there has been no lack of effort on that pitch. Now we need to sit down and formulate a plan to make things better next season.

"There will be changes. We will be net spenders on players this summer despite our debt. In our position, though, it is inevitable players will go. No-one in this squad is untouchable, except for perhaps Scott Parker. We have to temper ambition with reality. Our aims next season are to improve our league position, have a decent cup run and keep the club solvent."

Whether current managerial incumbent Gianfranco Zola remains at the helm come the start of next season is open to speculation - but Sullivan, who insisted that the manager will be involved with the key decisions regarding new arrivals for as long as he is employed by the club. "Part of that consultation process will involve Zola," Sullivan added. "We have always sat down with our managers and asked them what they want to do, how they will take things on in the future."

However in an earlier interview with the Telegraph, Sullivan - like fellow joint chairman David Gold earlier this week - intimated that Zola may be set to depart the club of his own volition. "He did indicate he might resign at the end of the season," said Sullivan, "but he might well have changed his mind. In interviews he has not committed his future to the club beyond the end of this season."

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Clubs eye Mido situation
Egyptian to have options
Last updated: 28th April 2010
SSN

Mido is set to be offered the chance to kick-start his career away from England, skysports.com understands. The Egyptian is a Middlesbrough player, but he has spent the whole season away from the club on loan. He first moved to Zamalek in his homeland, but he returned in January and West Ham signed him on transfer deadline day. The 27-year-old has made nine appearances for the Hammers, but is yet to register for them. Having already played in seven countries for ten different clubs, he again looks set to be on the move. And skysports.com understands that there is strong interest from both Greece and Turkey. Istanbul giants Fenerbahce and Galatasaray are both said to be showing an interest, whist Olympiakos and Panathinaikos are also understood to be keeping tabs on his situation.

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Sullivan - Zola might resign
Co-owner says no decision has been made over manager's future
Last updated: 28th April 2010
SSN

West Ham United's co-owner David Sullivan claims Gianfranco Zola has 'indicated' he may resign, but insists no decision has been taken on the manager's future. Zola's position at Upton Park has come under intense scrutiny this season following the Hammers' brush with relegation from the Premier League. The takeover of Sullivan and David Gold midway through the campaign prompted further rumours that the Italian could be axed in the summer. Sullivan says the board have not reached a conclusion regarding Zola's future, but believes the former Chelsea star has been considering his position at the club. "No decision has been made," Sullivan told the Daily Telegraph. "He did indicate he might resign at the end of the season, but he might well have changed his mind. "In interviews he has not committed his future to the club beyond the end of the season."
The Hammers are also braced for a summer upheaval after Sullivan revealed that he is prepared to listen to offers for every player, except influential midfielder Scott Parker.
He added: "Zola has repeatedly said he's a coach and doesn't want to be involved in the selection of players for the club. "I'm sure he'd accept the departure of any player if we brought in a better one. "We've had no offers for any players. This year's performances have not been good enough and some players will stay and others will go. "We will do deals that make financial sense for the club."

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Zola may leave - Gold
Hammers chief denies contact with manager candidates
Last updated: 29th April 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Gold admits there is a possibility that his efforts to persuade Gianfranco Zola to stay on as manager may prove to be in vain. The future of the Hammers boss is in doubt after Gold's partner David Sullivan claimed that the Italian could resign at the end of the season. Zola has not enjoyed the best relationship with the former Birmingham City owners since their January takeover. Zola clashed with the pair over the club's decision to complain to the Premier League about Fulham's weakened team against Hull, while Sullivan's description of the team's performance against Wolves as "pathetic" did little to ease tensions between the two parties. With West Ham now all but assured of their top-flight status, Zola is thought to be considering leaving the club. Gold denied that Steve McClaren and Avram Grant had been contacted about taking over from Zola, but he concedes that the Italian may leave Upton Park after the club's remaining games against Fulham and Manchester City. "I have not spoken to, and am not speaking to, any other managers about taking over at West Ham," Gold said. "I haven't spoken to Franco since Sunday but what I do know is that he's preparing for the away match at Fulham (on Sunday). "I'm going to the training ground on Friday as usual. I'll talk to him then. "I hope he stays, but him leaving is a scenario, it is a possibility. "He has had a tough time. He's had two years at West Ham and for a good part of that time he didn't know who was running the club. He's had bad luck as well. "He could say 'I have done a fantastic job, I have got West Ham out of jail when I was given a chance and I have managed to go through all that and keep West Ham in the Premier League'. "You could make a case for it. Do I believe that he will? There's always a possibility."
Gold also sought to dampen fears that the likes of Matthew Upson, Robert Green and Carlton Cole could leave Upton Park as part of a fire sale this summer. "I hope our best players will be with us next season," Gold said. "I hope they sign new contracts and remain settled at the club.

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Zola winning the Boat race
The Sun
By MARK IRWIN
Published: Today

WEST HAM are leading the chase for Portsmouth midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng - but must fight off Birmingham, Sunderland and Stoke. Crisis club Pompey insist they will not sell their prize asset on the cheap as they plan a mass clearout this summer. Boateng, 23, has been one of the few successes of a dismal season at Fratton Park since his £4million move from Spurs last year. And Pompey administrator Andrew Andronikou is hoping to start a bidding war for the £6m-rated former German Under-21 star, who will play his final game for the club in next month's FA Cup final against Chelsea. Boateng, who managed just seven Premier League starts during two years at Spurs, is under contract until 2012. That makes him one of the few Portsmouth players who will command a transfer fee as the club look to reduce their £105m debts. Even Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has been surprised by Boateng's performances this season and admits he was too hasty to sell the controversial midfielder. No less than seven of Avram Grant's first-team squad are out of contract in the summer and will not be offered new deals.

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West Ham move for Portsmouth midfielder Kevin Prince Boateng - Exclusive
Published 23:00 28/04/10 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

West Ham are set to cast a further cloud over the futures of their home grown midfielders by moving for Portsmouth's Kevin Prince Boateng. Hammers co-owner David Sullivan declared earlier this week that, with the exception of Scott Parker, the club will listen to offers for every player . As if to ram home the point, the east Londoners immediately moved for the freescoring West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans, with the Baggies confirming they had turned down a £4million bid. Now it is understood the Hammers want are lining up a cut-price move for Boateng, one of Pompey's most consistent players this season. Success in landing either - or both - players would reduce the first-team chances of both fans favourite Mark Noble and Jack Collison, who had been making good progress at Upton Park during the past season. Ironically the club's apparent move to end the tradition of blooding young talent from their famed academy comes just days before the testimonial of the man responsible for producing the likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Jermain Defoe and Michael Carrick from those ranks. Most, if not all of those players are expected to feature in Tony Carr's testimonial next Tuesday.
But the indications are that the club could now focus more on ready made stars than prospects for the future. Hammers fans have a particular affinity with local players and while the Noble and Collison camps declined to respond to Sullivan's remarks the supporters of the club will be unhappy to see either player leave. They will be equally as disappointed should the club accept offers for central defender James Tomkins as both Liverpool and Spurs have already expressed an interest this season. It was rebuffed by former supremo Scott Duxbury who saw Tomkins as part of the club's future. But Sullivan's stance could now see the club perform a u-turn with the Reds in the market for young English talent having already snapped up Charlton's Jonjo Shelvey. German-born Boateng is highly-rated and will feature in the FA Cup Final against Chelsea on May 15.
He Joined Portsmouth from Spurs at the start of the season after failing to live up to the towering reputation he was saddled with on arriving from Hertha Berlin three years ago.
But while the Hammers squad is up for sale, so to is the Portsmouth squad with the cash-strapped club unable to meet the wages of their best players.

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Gold: Fulham appeal was a mistake
Thursday 29th April 2010 8:48
TeamTalk

David Gold admits West Ham made a mistake by complaining over Fulham's decision to field a "ladies team" in their 2-0 defeat against Hull. With one eye on a midweek Europa League quarter-final against Wolfsburg, Fulham manager Roy Hodgson decided to rest five key players for the match in March, which they lost thanks to goals from Jimmy Bullard and Craig Fagan. The Hammers hierarchy, fearing the potentially disastrous implications of the Hull win on their debt-ridden club, lodged an official complaint with the Premier League on April 2 but nothing has been made of the matter since and with survival now all-but certain, Gold admits the club now regret their actions. "I think we were upset at the time and we probably reacted in haste and passion," said Gold. "I have to say that we were very upset and that we were in such a scary position. "It's horrible being right down there when you are a club of such might as West Ham. "We were very disappointed about the decision to put that team out at the time. "Let me tell you though, I would have done the same thing. I would have put out the ladies team if I had been Fulham. "They were beaten 2-0 by Hull and you're thinking 'come on, how can that be?' but of course if you put out the ladies team then that's what's going to happen."
Bobby Zamora, Danny Murphy, Damien Duff, Aaron Hughes and Dickson Etuhu all missed Fulham's defeat to Hull, which allowed the Tigers to pull level with Gianfranco Zola's side. West Ham's 1-0 defeat against Stoke that weekend - their sixth on the bounce - ensured they only remained outside the relegation zone by virtue of goal difference. The Premier League earlier this week confirmed they were still to receive Fulham's response to the allegations, and Gold's fellow co-owner David Sullivan admitted this week he had attempted to withdraw the complaint. Gold's description of the Fulham team, which included the likes of Chris Smalling and Clint Dempsey, could anger the Cottagers ahead of the Premier League meeting between the two sides on Sunday.
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola disagreed with the club's complaint and admitted that it could add extra spice to Sunday's London derby. The two club are already at loggerheads after Fulham claimed they were owed £450,000 compensation because West Ham finished one position above them in the 2006-07 season when they included the illegitimately-registered Carlos Tevez among their ranks. Sullivan is reportedly ready to donate £100,000 to charity if Fulham scrap their bid for compensation and Gold now also hopes the two clubs can move on from the latest episode in their feud. "We're big boys and we'll move on now," he added.

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West Ham hope to strike deal with Tottenham to sign Jamie O'Hara
West Ham United are considering offering either captain Matthew Upson or James Tomkins to Tottenham Hotspur in return for Jamie O'Hara as the club begin the dramatic overhaul of their squad promised by co-chairman David Sullivan.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Jason Burt
Published: 7:00AM BST 29 Apr 2010

West Ham hope to strike deal with Tottenham to sign Jamie O'Hara, possibly in exchange for Matthew Upson or James Tomkins . Argentine striker Mauro Boselli is a prime target, with Portsmouth's Kevin-Prince Boateng also on a list of potential signings. West Ham will make an improved offer for West Bromwich Albion midfielder Graham Dorrans, having had a £4 million bid rejected this week. Now that West Ham's Premier League status is secure, Sullivan has already announced that every player is for sale – apart from Scott Parker – with Alessandro Diamanti, signed last year for £5.8 million, the first to be informed that he can leave.
Diamanti's agent, Luca Puccinelli, was called by West Ham vice-chairman Karren Brady on Wednesday and told to find another club for his client, who has failed to impress Sullivan. Puccinelli has sought a meeting with Brady but has been told there is no point because Diamanti, who is close to manager Gianfranco Zola, is not wanted. Guillermo Franco has also been told he will not have his one-year contract renewed.
With Portsmouth still owing Spurs £3 million for Boateng and £500,000 in loan fees for O'Hara, it may mean that West Ham are at the centre of an interesting transfer merry-go-around. Intriguingly, Portsmouth manager Avram Grant is lobbying hard for the job at West Ham should, as expected, Zola leave at the end of this season. Zola is considering his options, with Sullivan confirming that the manager has told him he may walk out, although no final decision has been made and the two are planning to meet in two weeks' time.
Tottenham have long shown an interest in Upson, who was wanted by Liverpool last year, and who has just one-year left on his contract and has indicated that he does not want to sign a new deal and would like to leave. However given his age, 31, and wages, he earns £65,000-a-week, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy may not be interested. Tomkins, who is regarded as one of the best young English prospects, although he has struggled this season in a struggling team, may at 21 be a more attractive proposition. The two clubs have not done a deal since their spat over Tottenham's efforts to sign Craig Bellamy, with West Ham's then chief executive Scott Duxbury declaring he would not sell to Tottenham again. But Spurs are in the market for another central defender while O'Hara is not expected to stay at White Hart Lane after his successful loan spell at Fratton Park.
Portsmouth's administrators want £5 million for Boateng, who has attracted interest from Sevilla, but West Ham would expect to pay less than that. Room in the squad for new midfielders will be made with the departure of Valon Behrami.
A priority for Sullivan, as it was in January, is to increase West Ham's attacking options. With four goals this season, Sullivan does not believe Franco, who is also 33, is prolific enough while there are question marks over Carlton Cole with Arsenal and Aston Villa both interested. The signings of Benni McCarthy and Mido have not worked while Ilan's loan deal expires next month and it is unlikely that West Ham, who paid a fee of £600,000, will take up the option for the Brazilian striker. Boselli would be an exciting signing. The 24 year-old has one international cap but is tipped to be a surprise inclusion in Diego Maradona's World Cup squad having impressed for his club, Estudiantes, who recently retained the Copa Libertadores. The striker has scored 23 goals in his last 34 games and has attracted interest from other Premier League clubs, including Birmingham City and Blackburn Rovers although, more recently, Manchester United were also mentioned as a possible suitor. Estimates on a fee range from £5 million to £1 million with a deal complicated by claims that Boselli's former club, Boca Juniors, are due 50 per cent of his transfer.

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West Ham United academy director Tony Carr: Youngsters should follow example of Bobby Moore
Hammers coach labels World Cup winning captain as ideal role model…
By Danny Hart
28 Apr 2010 21:11:00
Goal.com

West Ham United academy director Tony Carr believes the England team will go backwards unless youngsters follow the example of World Cup winning captain Bobby Moore.
The long-serving Hammers coach, who has seen the likes of Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Jermain Defoe, Michael Carrick and Glen Johnson come through the ranks during his tenure, has been at Upton Park since 1966 and worked alongside the England legend. Moore is a West Ham hero, making over 500 league appearances for the club, while also earning 108 caps for England, and Carr believes he would be the ideal role model to youngsters trying to find their way in football today. He told the Telegraph: "He had an aura, not flash, he was just special. Bobby was captain, good-looking and a top, top player. It's like the Beckham syndrome, when he walks into a room, people go 'Look, David Beckham'. "Bobby had great dignity: he was very quiet, never demanding, and immaculate in the way he conducted himself. After training, I'd watch him take his socks off, put them the right way out and fold his kit just to make it easier for the kit-man. "Bobby's habit was always to put his shorts on last as he was walking down the tunnel, so the shorts stayed ironed and kept that smart front crease. When he went to get the World Cup, Bobby saw Her Majesty the Queen, saw the white gloves and thought 'I'll clean my hands'."
The percentage of Englishman playing in the Premier League in constantly decreasing, due to the influx of foreign players over the last couple of decades, but Carr believes that the FA need to develop players at a younger age to help them progress in the future. He said: "Wayne Rooney learned his trade in the park, on the street and in the playground. That shows in his game because he has a rawness and edge to him that makes him the player he is. There are talented players around but the pool is smaller. "We have gone backwards. If England are to stay as a top football nation, I'm concerned where the next generation are going to come from. The FA have to get players at six and help them develop so when they come into academies at under-9s they are better prepared. "We pick up kids to sign for the academy at eight, nine and most of the problems are the motor skills, the movement. Some are stiff and sedentary. The African players coming into the game have the motor skills from playing on the streets in townships. The FA have to influence government to influence schools. "Teachers are frightened to do anything adventurous in case a boy falls and breaks his arm and the parents sue the school. But we need more P.E. in schools, more jumping, twisting, climbing, so they will be better athletically."

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West Ham United legend Geoff Hurst wants Gianfranco Zola to remain as manager
World Cup winner keen for Italian to stay at Upton Park…
By Danny Hart
28 Apr 2010 19:45:00
Goal.com

West Ham United legend Geoff Hurst has urged the club to stick with manager Gianfranco Zola next season. There has been speculation since owners David Gold and David Sullivan joined the club in January that they could be looking to bring in a new manager. However, Zola has now secured Premier League survival for the Hammers with two games remaining and Hurst believes the Italian deserves to remain as boss. Hurst told reporters: "Whether Zola will stay, I'm not sure. It's been a great experience for him this year. "I'd argue that when he came he wasn't the right man for the job because he came with very little experience and that was a risk in itself. "I would argue that, having come through the two years - and he must have gained mountains of experience at the club - with the solidarity of the people now owning it, he could stay. "He was a great player and on balance now, having got through this year, he deserves another chance. The changing of managers, I don't agree with for the sake of it. "We've had problems at the club which are not all related to him, he has kept the club up and deserves another chance."
Hurst also backed the club's new owners, despite their recent outbursts on team matters, which have included David Sullivan insisting every player at the club is for sale except Scott Parker. He said: "It is a difficult position where the owners of the club make comments about the team, but there are arguments on both sides. "You could argue they should let the manager get on and manage. You could argue they are as frustrated as the fans and perhaps they shouldn't say so much, but it only illustrates they have a passion for the club. "That is good because, at the top level, people running clubs aren't always from the area. They certainly have their heart and soul in the club."

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'England will prosper if schoolboys follow Bobby Moore's example'
On the eve of his testimonial, West Ham's long-serving academy director Tony Carr warns that the England football team will go backwards unless the young generation of aspiring footballers are versed in the exemplary work ethic of Bobby Moore.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Henry Winter
Published: 5:59PM BST 28 Apr 2010

Ron Greenwood stepped into the middle, preparing to say a few words before pre-season training started in earnest. Tony Carr remembers the moment as if it were yesterday.
King's fitness headache for Capello Carr had just been promoted from the youth team to train with his idols. "What a magic time,'' recalled Carr, now the highly successful director of a West Ham Academy that has nurtured some of the heirs to Moore's great legacy in Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Joe Cole, Glen Johnson, Michael Carrick and even John Terry for two years.

Like a proud teacher, Carr cannot wait to see all his celebrated former pupils again when they visit for his testimonial on May 5. For a while though, as he talked at Upton Park recently, Carr was back in 1966.

"I can remember Ron saying: 'Congratulations to Bobby, Geoff and Martin. What a fantastic achievement in the summer. I feel for Johnny Byrne who was in the shadow squad but didn't get picked for the final 22. He should have gone, he was good enough.'

"That was a nice touch by Ron. But that was the only reference to the World Cup. Bobby, Geoff and Martin were ordinary guys.

"Bobby was different of course. He had an aura, not flash, he was just special. Bobby was captain, good-looking and a top, top player. It's like the Beckham syndrome, when he walks into a room, people go 'Look, David Beckham'.''

Moore's spirit lives on at the academy. "We try to make them good people as well as good players,'' continued Carr.

"Bobby had great dignity: he was very quiet, never demanding, and immaculate in the way he conducted himself. After training, I'd watch him take his socks off, put them the right way out and fold his kit just to make it easier for the kit-man.

"Bobby's habit was always to put his shorts on last as he was walking down the tunnel, so the shorts stayed ironed and kept that smart front crease. When he went to get the World Cup, Bobby saw Her Majesty the Queen, saw the white gloves and thought 'I'll clean my hands'.

"That respect is less now generally in football but there are guys as polite and dignified as Mark [Noble] and Frank. They're not big-time Charlies, not massive egos.

"Michael is an everyday guy. Glen is an average guy. Joe is very down to earth, never forgotten his roots and his family wouldn't let him. They are portrayed as superstars with flash cars and big money but it's other people who put them on pedestals. Rio still has Peckham in his blood.

"Rio always had natural talent. He could jump, sprint, run, had two good feet and was very graceful. Frank had to work harder. I never had any doubt Frank would be a very good player but I didn't envisage at 14 he would have all these caps, Premier League titles and FA Cups.

"Frank always had the technical talent, always understood the game, but he's worked hard at the stuff he didn't do well, the physical side. His dad told him to 'go and buy spikes because you need to get quicker, get on your toes'. Frank would come in on his day off and just do sprints from box to box for 45 minutes. Sprint there, jog back.

"I spoke to him last week and said: 'I still use you as an example to our youth team.' Frank's the complete midfielder now. All those things didn't come naturally.''

A section of Upton Park has never forgiven Lampard for leaving and boo him mercilessly. "Without alienating myself from West Ham fans, I think it has gone on too long,'' Carr said.

"It's like the Paul Ince situation. Paul is a bit reluctant to come down to my testimonial because of the abuse he may get. That's sad. I hope on the night there's an amnesty and fans respect the reason why they are here.''

Next week's game pits the Academy All-stars against the current West Ham team.

"I could claim half a dozen of the first-team squad like Mark but they need to put out a team! Joe, Glen, Rio, Frank and Michael have all promised they will come along. Paolo di Canio is coming to guest for me. I had to guarantee him the No 10 shirt! Matt Holland, Kieran Richardson, Anton Ferdinand, Freddy Eastwood and Freddie Sears will play.''

For all his own success, Carr fears for England's future if the national production line of talent is not improved. "Wayne Rooney learned his trade in the park, on the street and in the playground. That shows in his game because he has a rawness and edge to him that makes him the player he is. There are talented players around but the pool is smaller.

"We have gone backwards. If England are to stay as a top football nation, I'm concerned where the next generation are going to come from. The FA have to get players at six and help them develop so when they come into academies at under-9s they are better prepared.

"We pick up kids to sign for the academy at eight, nine and most of the problems are the motor skills, the movement. Some are stiff and sedentary. The African players coming into the game have the motor skills from playing on the streets in townships. The FA have to influence government to influence schools.

"Teachers are frightened to do anything adventurous in case a boy falls and breaks his arm and the parents sue the school. But we need more PE in schools, more jumping, twisting, climbing, so they will be better athletically.''

More like Moore, in fact.

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Premier League clarifies "weakened team" rules
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
ESPNB
April 28, 2010

The Premier League has confirmed that top-flight clubs will be allowed to rest players if they have a number of games in quick succession after West Ham demanded a clarification of the rules about fielding a "weakened" side. The issue has been a contentious one, with the Hammers claiming earlier this month that Fulham fielded an under-strength side in their 2-0 defeat to Hull, four days before the Cottagers played Wolfsburg in the Europa League quarter-final first leg. At the time, West Ham were fighting it out with Hull for Premier League survival and the Hammers felt that the result could have affected the outcome of the relegation battle. Wolves were given a suspended fine earlier this season for fielding a weakened side against Manchester United at Old Trafford but Fulham were not punished, leading West Ham to demand clarification on the issue. The Premier League has confirmed that neither Fulham or their boss Roy Hodgson will be reprimanded, and informed Hammers co-owner David Sullivan that clubs are permitted to rest players if they have had a number of games in quick succession. "Even if our complaint was not upheld, we are extremely pleased the rule has been clarified and we know now the position," Sullivan told Soccernet. "We all now know that if players have had a number of quick games its now accepted that they can be rested."
"'By merely ruling in favour of Fulham, who rested nine players, it is clear you can rest players if you want to. On TV their manager, Roy Hodgson, said he was resting them. So by ruling in Fulhams favour, they accept the concept that players can be rested in large numbers."
Fulham meet West Ham this weekend and ironically, Gianfranco Zola's side will likely benefit from the Cottagers' Europa League exploits, with more changes expected after their semi-final second leg clash with Hamburg on Thursday. Although Fulham are still suing West Ham over the Carlos Tevez affair, and chairman Mohamed Al-Fayed said earlier this month: "I stick two fingers up to West Ham," Sullivan insists relations between the clubs are improving. Sullivan said: "We wish Fulham all the best on Thursday as they are a club we greatly admire for their achievements this season and their manager and chairman are really lovely people."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

http://www.justgiving.com/vyperz
I am running the BUPA 10k on May 31st and raising money for the Bobby Moore Cancer Fund
Please donate generously! Thanks.

Wednesday, April 28

Daily WHUFC News - 28th April 2010

Reserves 3-2 Fulham FT
WHUFC.com
Goals from Olly Lee, Junior Stanislas and Cristian Montano see West Ham
United edge out Fulham
27.04.2010

West Ham United reserves v Fulham Reserves
Barclays Premier Reserve League South
Boleyn Ground
Tuesday 27 April 2010
Kick-off: 7pm

Full-time score - West Ham United reserves 3-2 Fulham reserves

100 mins - Trotta creates some space about 20 yards from goal and shoots
with his right foot. Spence blocks before clearing. I am 99 per cent sure
the injured player was the substitute Kamau. However, the medical staff have
re-emerged from the tunnel, so fingers-crossed the stretcher was simply a
precaution. The final whistle is blown and West Ham have completed their
reserve season with a victory.

Don't forget to keep a close eye on whufc.com for exclusive post-match
reaction. WHUTV will also have highlights and post-match interviews soon.

98 mins - Smith lifts a free-kick into the box. Toure wins it but the ball
bounces safely through to Kurucz.

96 mins - GOAL! Peniket pulls a goal back for the ten men as he curls a low
shot inside Kurucz's far post from 15 yards.

95 mins - The crowd give the injured Fulham player a warm round of applause
as he is carried off and down the tunnel. Let's hope it's nothing serious.
I'll try and work out who it is for you now.

91 mins - I'm sorry, but I can't see which Fulham player is down injured.
We're going to have four added minutes, but at present, everybody's concerns
are with the injured player. There are six yellow-vested paramedics and the
Fulham physio tending to him at the moment. The medical staff carefully lift
the player on to a larger stretcher.

90 mins - Montano is booked for a challenge that leaves a Fulham player in a
heap on the pitch. The physio dashes on as the striker is cautioned. There
seems to be some concern as he landed awkwardly, but his legs are thrashing
around, so hopefully it's not too serious. Montano goes to check on his
opponent's condition. The stretcher is brought on by the paramedics who are
always on hand.

88 mins - Stefan Payne and Pierre, who is injured, are the two Fulham
players to be replaced. Zola comes on for Daprela.

87 mins - Great stuff! Stanislas turns on a sixpence before shooting. His
effort is deflected and Etheridge can only turn it aside. Montano races to
the loose ball before crossing with his left foot to the far post. Abdulla
catches the ball flush on the volley, only for the goalkeeper to save well
with his legs.

85 mins - Fulham are going to make a second change. It is going to be
Richard Peniket to come on. In fact, Michael Kamau is also going to be
introduced. Andrea Zola is also going to be sent on for the final few
minutes. I hope his Dad hasn't gone home early...!

82 mins - GOAL! Montano has his goal! Toure can only get a toe-end on the
through ball and the Colombian-born player is there to finish superbly,
smashing the ball low past Etheridge and into the bottom right-hand corner.
Surely game over, now. Montano will be well-pleased with that, as he has
been desperate to make his mark at reserve-team level.

81 mins - Fulham force a corner. Buchtman takes it, it is flicked on at the
near post and Trotta tries to hook it goalwards. The ball spins high in the
air and Kurucz claims.

80 mins - Steve Davis is coming back into it at the World Snooker in
Sheffield. He's just rattled in a 128 break against Neil Robertson and is
now only 9-2 behind... Frei is on for Harris.

79 mins - Fulham are going to make a change. Kerim Frei is going to come on.

77 mins - Zola and Modelski are warming up on the touchline. I'm not sure
Dyer will want to change anything, though.

76 mins - We have a short break in play as Briggs receives treatment. Dyer
uses the hiatus to issue some instructions while some of his players enjoy a
drink.

74 mins - That should have been 3-1. Brown does brilliantly to trick his way
into the box. He cuts the ball back to Abdulla, who controls and shoots, but
it hits a Fulham defender and Etheridge gathers the spinning ball. Abdulla
wants a penalty, but the referee is not having any of it. Moments later,
West Ham have the ball again and Stanislas smashes the ball high and wide
from 25 yards.

71 mins - I doubt anyone cares, but Bayern Munich are now 2-0 up on
aggregate against Lyon in the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg in
France.

68 mins - You have to feel sorry for Montano. He runs on to Stanislas's
through ball and rounds Etheridge before smashing his shot against the post
from no more than five yards. The angle was a bit tight, to be fair to the
striker, but still he lies on the turf, holding his head in sheer disbelief.
On the plus side, West Ham are well on top here, all of a sudden.

67 mins - Boa Morte has showered and changed and is now making his way
through the West Stand Lower to sit with Zola and Clarke. He gets a cheer
from the fans as he jogs up the steps.

66 mins - Montano again! McNaughton slams a superb raking ball over the
Fulham back-four, a la Michael Dawson. Montano gets between Fulham's
centre-backs and heads goalwards, but Etheridge is able to jump high enough
to catch above his head.

65 mins - Montano comes close to his first goal at reserve level, latching
on to a long through ball and volleying towards the near post. Etheridge
throws himself to his left to keep the ball out before expertly preventing
the corner.

61 mins - West Ham make a hash of a free-kick. Spence gives the ball away to
Smith. He tries to play in Payne, but Brown is there again to cut the pass
out. Good positional play from the No6.

58 mins - Trotta does well to hold of McNaughton before flicking the ball
into the path of Briggs. The captain cuts into the box on his right foot and
shoots. The ball hits Spence and bounces towards the goal, but Kurucz is
there to gather it.

56 mins - Great block from Spence to deny Buchtman after the midfielder had
skipped past McNaughton. The ball rebounds to Harris, whose low shot is
gathered by Kurucz at the second attempt. Fulham look by far the more likely
scorers at present.

54 mins - McNaughton does well twice more in the space of a few seconds,
first to out-muscle Trotta, then to cut off Payne's attempted through ball
to the same player.

53 mins - Briggs shoots powerfully from 25 yards but McNaughton is there to
block with his face! The ball runs through to Brown, who brings it clear
with typical aplomb. The Academy defender is a cultured player.

51 mins - Payne works a yard of space inside the Hammers penalty area and
shoots, but Brown blocks. Fulham work the resulting throw to Trotta, who
lays off to the same player, but Payne curls his shot over from 16 yards.

49 mins - A neat flick from Abdulla looks to have released Stanislas, but
Pierre sticks to his task and wins the ball back before Stanislas concedes a
foul.

48 mins - Fulham have started the brighter after the break, and Trotta goes
close-ish to equalising, shooting low from 25 yards. Kurucz slides, but he
always looked confident that the ball would go safely wide.

46 mins - West Ham get the second half up and running, kicking towards the
deserted Bobby Moore Stand end.

Half-time score - West Ham United reserves 2-1 Fulham reserves

Two half-time changes for the Hammers. Boa Morte and McCarthy are the men to
make way. They are replaced by Edgar and Montano.

47 mins - Fulham take a throw-in wide on the left and Smith crosses low.
McNaughton blocks it and clears and referee Bull blows for half-time. Join
us again in about 15 minutes for the second half.

46 mins - We're into the one and only added minute and West Ham have got
their mojo back. Daprela, who has been superb this half, gets forward again
and cuts inside. Abdulla feeds the ball wide to Lee, but he crosses too high
for Abdulla and Boa Morte and the ball bounces behind.

45 mins - Into the final minute of the first half and West Ham have suddenly
got a bit sloppy in possession. It is important that they see out the
remaining seconds. Dyer is on the edge of his technical area keeping a close
eye on things.

43 mins - So close to an equaliser for Fulham. Stefan Payne gets through the
middle and clear of Spence and Brown, only to shoot powerfully wide of the
far post. He shrieks in frustration.

42 mins - I should also say that Stanislas looks very confident tonight. Not
only is he seeing plenty of the ball, but he is also looking to run beyond
the forwards and get on the end of things.

41 mins - McCarthy turns well and finds Stanislas. He lays the ball back to
Lee, whose cross is just too high for Abdulla in the centre. Daprela picks
up the loose ball, but Boa Morte is crowded out on the edge of the box and
the chance is lost. Lee and Daprela are vital to this formation, and their
willingness to get up and down the flanks is giving West Ham some real
width.

38 mins - This has been a thoroughly entertaining game so far. Both teams
are keeping the ball on the floor and moving it well around what is a very
lush, green pitch. Alex Dyer will be delighted with the way his side have
come from behind to take the lead. Without sounding too sentimental, Dyer
puts a lot of time and effort into the reserve squad, and he will be
particularly pleased to have seen Lee belt in his first goal of the season.

35 mins - I should have mentioned that Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke are
here.

32 mins - McCarthy is fouled 40 yards out. Boa Morte curls the ball in, but
it is headed clear.

30 mins - Stanislas concedes a free-kick 35 yards out. Buchtman shoots and
Kurucz is scrambling, but the ball curls wide.

27 mins - GOAL! Good, my reverse psychology worked! Boa Morte slots the ball
wide right to Lee, who slams it low across the box for Stanislas to finish
first-time. Etheridge got a hand to the ball, but he couldn't keep it out.

26 mins - At last a bit of a lull in the goalmouth action...

21 mins - Josh Pritchard cuts inside on his left foot and shoots low from 25
yards. Kurucz is there, though, and collects at the second attempt.

18 mins - Brilliant stuff. Brown swaps passes with Payne before releasing
Stanislas through the middle. He jets past Pierre and crosses towards
McCarthy, only for Toure to stab the ball behind. The corner is won by
McNaughton, but it's an easy catch for Etheridge.

17 mins - It's all calmed down a bit, but you get the feeling there could be
another goal at any moment.

14 mins - It's all happening! Fulham win a corner and Briggs crosses, only
for Toure to be penalised for a foul on Brown.

13 mins - GOAL! That's more like it! Stanislas drives at the Fulham defence
and tries to slot the ball through to Abdulla. The youngster is muscled out,
but the ball is only half-cleared to Lee, who takes a touch and belts the
ball into the top right-hand corner from 25 yards.

13 mins - Briggs calls Kurucz into action again with a low shot from 25
yards, but the goalkeeper is equal to it.

11 mins - GOAL! Fulham take the lead. Smith gets round McNaughton and clips
the ball high to the far post where Trotta gets above Brown and heads the
ball past Kurucz from six yards. That was too easy, and Dyer lets his
players know by telling them to concentrate.

9 mins - The first corner comes to nothing when Briggs's shot is deflected
behind. Buchtman floats the ball in and Kurucz punches clear of the area.

8 mins - Marcello Trotta picks the ball up 25 yards from goal, but his shot
is well blocked and bounces harmlessly into Kurucz's arms. Seconds later,
Kurucz makes an outstanding save after Trotta had escaped Spence's clutches
and shot from just eight yards. The Hungarian deflects the ball behind for a
corner.

7 mins - Alex Smith picks up the ball about 35 yards out, but the Fulham
left-winger can only drag his shot straight at Kurucz.

6 mins - Boa Morte is playing on the left of the three-man midfield, with
Payne in the middle and Stanislas on the right. Kurucz catches confidently
and bowls the ball out to Brown. He runs forward 20 yards before lofting the
ball towards Abdulla, but his pass is too high and bounces through to
goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.

5 mins - Fulham have a corner. Chris Buchtman crosses towards the near post,
but centre-back Cheick Toure can only divert the ball well wide of the post.
West Ham are in a 3-5-2 formation again, as has been Alex Dyer's prefered
system in recent weeks. Daprela and Lee are the wing-backs, with Spence,
flanked by Brown and McNaughton in the centre of defence.

3 mins - Payne and Lee create space for McCarthy on the edge of the penalty
area. The South African passes left to Daprela, but his cross is behind
Abdulla, and Fulham escape again.

1 min - So nearly a magical start for the Hammers. Daprela and Stanislas
combine well down the left before the latter finds McCarthy. His first touch
is into the path of Abdulla, but a defender gets back in well to concede a
corner. The ball is crossed into the box, but headed clear at the near post.

6.59pm - And here we go...

6.58pm - Captain Jordan Spence steps forward to go through the pre-match
rituals with his opposite number Matthew Briggs. West Ham will attack the
Sir Trevor Brooking Stand end of the stadium in the opening 45 minutes.
Fulham will kick-off.

6.57pm - Here come the two teams. Must admit, there isn't what you'd call a
massive crowd in the West Stand Lower this evening. Still, a few hundred
hardy souls have turned out. Good on them, too.

6.55pm - Both teams are back in their respective dressing rooms ahead of
what promises to be an entertaining climax to the reserve-team season. A
host of scouts have turned out to catch what could be the likes of Josh
Payne's final appearance in a West Ham United shirt. Southend United manager
Steve Tilson is among those who have popped along to the Boleyn Ground on
what is a glorious, warm and sunny evening.

Good evening and welcome to the Boleyn Ground

West Ham United complete their Barclays Premier Reserve League South season
with the visit of a youthful Fulham side to east London. Benni McCarthy is
the star turn in tonight's starting lineup, with Luis Boa Morte continuing
his comeback from a long-term knee injury with another start.

Fabio Daprela, Junior Stanislas, Peter Kurucz and Josh Payne have all turned
out at first-team level this season, while Academy youngsters Jordan Brown
and Ahmed Abdulla will be eager to shine.

Victory could see the Hammers finish fifth in the nine-team table, providing
Portsmouth fail to beat champions Aston Villa in their final match.

With their own first team in UEFA Europa League semi-final action against
Hamburger SV on Thursday, Fulham manager Billy McKinlay has named a very
young and inexperienced team.

West Ham United reserves: Kurucz, Lee, Daprela (A.Zola 88), McNaughton,
Spence, Brown, Stanislas, Payne, Boa Morte (Edgar 46), Abdulla, McCarthy
(Montano 46)
Subs: Stech, Modelski

Fulham reserves: Etheridge, Marsh-Brown, Briggs, Pierre (Peniket 88), Toure,
Pritchard, Harris (Frei 80), Buchtman, Trotta, Payne (Kamau 88), Smith
Subs: Bettinelli

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West Brom reject £4m West Ham bid for Graham Dorrans
BBC.co.uk

Newly promoted West Brom have turned down a bid of about £4m from West Ham
for midfielder Graham Dorrans. The 22-year-old Scotland international scored
17 goals to help lead the Baggies back to the Premier League after one
season in the Championship. But West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace insisted
Dorrans is not for sale. "Our aim now is to retain our core players and try
to strengthen our squad around them," he told the club's official website.
Dorrans has become an integral part of manager Roberto di Matteo's plans and
has featured in all but one of West Brom's 45 matches this season. He topped
the club's goalscoring chart, with 12 league goals, and also notched five in
the FA and League Cups. His consistent performances were acknowledged by the
Professional Footballers' Association when he was named in their
Championship team of the year.
Dorrans signed a new three-and-a-half year contract with the Baggies in
January, with the option of a 12-month extension. However, his displays have
alerted a number of top-flight clubs, including West Ham. Hammers co-owner
David Sullivan said he wants to strengthen the squad after securing their
Premier League future following a 3-2 win over Wigan on Saturday. However,
the former Birmingham supremo also conceded the club will listen to offers
for any player other than Scott Parker. "Under no circumstances will Scott
Parker be sold and we will be buying more than we are selling," he told the
Daily Mirror.

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West Ham 1 Fulham 0!
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th April 2010
By: A Different Staff Writer

The club has won an early round in the latest arbitration battle resulting
from the Tevez affair. Fulham have been told by a tribunal that they will
not be able to base a compensation claim relating to the affair on the
decision made by Lord Griffiths to award Sheffield United millions in
damages.

Fulham are the latest club to seek easy money out of the affair, claiming
that they lost out on Premier League prize money in compensation from West
Ham United - being represented at this latest tribunal by Sir Ken Macdonald
QC - in relation to the 2006/07 season, for what they claim is lost revenue
relating to final league placings. West Ham's win at Old Trafford on the
final day of that season saw them leapfrog the Cottagers to finish 15th -
one place above Fulham in 16th.

The south west Londoners, led by Mohamed Al Fayed had tried to base their
case on the unfathomable decision by Lord Griffiths to award Sheffield
United some £25million in damages back in 2008 - a decision that shocked the
world of football.

But the independent panel, in an adjuducation made today, have told Fulham
that any forthcoming claim must be based on its own merits and not on
Griffiths' earlier lapse of sanity.

"We agree with Fulham that, under the FAPL Rules, we have power to admit the
Interim Award if we were to choose to do so. We also see the force of
Fulham's submission that it would be just and, in particular, convenient for
us to do so in the present case," read the panel's findings.

"[But] we are frankly troubled by the prospect of the parties calling much
of the same evidence before us as was called before the FA Tribunal and the
time which will be taken up and the costs which will be incurred, perhaps
unnecessarily, as a result. We are also, unsurprisingly, as Mr Beloff QC for
Fulham suggested we should be, instinctively reluctant to re-tread ground
covered, at least in part, by a previous Tribunal.

"However, we have come to the clear conclusion that it would be contrary to
principle for us to admit the Interim Award in the present case. And we are
unconvinced that there are considerations of justice and convenience which
favour admitting the Interim Award and are sufficient to override the
desirability of adhering to established principle, either generally, or in
this particular case."

West Ham agreed to pay Sheffield United £4million a year for the next five
season's after being ordered to cough up by Lord Griffiths, who somehow
deemed that one player was responsible for the Blades' relegation. Fulham -
who themselves only avoided relegation in 2006/07 having gained three points
against a severely weakened Liverpool side on the penultimate weekend of
that season - instantly signalled their intentions to sue the Irons on the
back of the Griffiths decision.

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Hammers move for Dorrans
Baggies face fight to keep hold of star
By Peter O'Rourke Last updated: 27th April 2010
SSN

Skysports.com understands West Ham have launched a £4million bid for
highly-rated West Brom ace Graham Dorrans. Hammers co-owners David Sullivan
and David Gold are keen to reshape the Upton Park squad after admitting
every player bar Scott Parker was up for sale and Baggies star Dorrans is at
the top of their shopping list. Dorrans has been a revelation for West Brom
this season, scoring 18 goals from midfield and he has been the driving
force behind the club's successful promotion to the Premier League.
The Scotland international was rewarded for his sparkling performances this
season by being named in the PFA Championship team of the year. West Brom
are keen to keep hold of the former Livingston man as they prepare for life
back in the top flight, but could struggle to reject a big offer for the
playmaker with not just West Ham chasing his services. Dorrans' agent,
Willie McKay, admits it would not come as a shock if West Ham were chasing
the 22-year-old. "I would not be surprised if West Ham have made a bid for
Graham as he has been the best player in the Championship," McKay told
skysports.com. "Graham has had a fantastic season for West Brom and I know a
lot of clubs are interested in him. "As far as I know Graham is very happy
at West Brom, but every player wants to play at the highest level they can.
"It is up to the two clubs and if a deal is agreed Graham will have a
decision to make."

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Baggies reject Dorrans bid
Chairman insists Scotland international is not for sale
Last updated: 27th April 2010
SSN

West Bromwich Albion insist Graham Dorrans is not for sale after turning
down a big-money bid from West Ham United. Skysports.com revealed earlier on
Tuesday that the Hammers had lined up a £4million offer for Dorrans after
securing their Premier League status. Hammers co-owners David Sullivan and
David Gold are keen to reshape the Upton Park squad after admitting every
player bar Scott Parker was up for sale and Baggies star Dorrans is at the
top of their shopping list. Dorrans has been a revelation for West Brom this
season, scoring 18 goals from midfield and he has been the driving force
behind the club's successful promotion to the Premier League. The Scotland
international was rewarded for his sparkling performances this season by
being named in the PFA Championship team of the year. And, ahead of the
return to the top flight, West Brom have outlined their determination to
keep the 22-year-old at The Hawthorns. Chairman Jeremy Peace told the club's
official website: "As I have stressed several times since we achieved
promotion over two weeks ago, our aim now is to retain our core players and
try to strengthen our squad around them. "I want to make it clear again that
Graham Dorrans is not for sale."

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Hammers ready for summer shake-up
Published 09:41 27/04/10 By Pa Sports
The Mirror

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan has warned that Scott Parker is the only
player the club would not consider selling if the price is right during a
summer shake-up at Upton Park. Sullivan, along with his boardroom colleague
David Gold, is quickly beginning preparations for a busy summer in the
transfer market after the club effectively ensured their Barclays Premier
League survival with Saturday's 3-2 win over Wigan. Parker scored the winner
on that occasion, and Sullivan immediately ruled the midfielder out of a
potential summer exodus. "Other than Scott Parker, there is not a player we
wouldn't sell if it was the right bid," said Sullivan. "Scott will not be
sold and we will be buying more than we are selling. There will be no
fire-selling and we will enhance the squad, not diminish it." He added: "We
will have to shake up the pack because there is no point kidding ourselves
otherwise we will be in the same position next year - the table doesn't
lie." But, while he also expressed a wish to keep Upson, he would make no
such guarantees over the former Birmingham defender - or, for that matter,
his international colleagues Robert Green and Carlton Cole. "We will make
(Upson) a proposal for a new three-year contract," he said. "We would give
him an offer of a comparable level to what he is on now, which he may or may
not want to take. "But Upson has a year to go so if we get a good offer we
will take it."

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Solano arrested on rape charge
Published 10:45 27/04/10 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

Footballer Nolberto Solano was arrested yesterday over a 22-year-old woman's
allegation he raped her. Peruvian international Solano, 35, the former
Newcastle United midfielder, was later released on bail. Solano, who now
plays for Championship side Leicester City, was arrested at a house in
Gosforth, Newcastle. Police said: "Inquiries are ongoing and a 35-year-old
man has been bailed." Solano, right, nicknamed Nobby, joined Newcastle in
1998 for £2.5million from Argentinian side Boca Juniors. He has two children
by ex-wife Claudia.

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Gianfranco Zola to demand payoff as part of dignified West Ham exit
Italian's stance has shifted over past week
Manager will seek settlement of up to £1.9m to leave
Dominic Fifield and Jamie Jackson guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 27 April 2010
22.12 BST

Gianfranco Zola is set to leave West Ham United at the end of the season but
intends to sit down with the owners to secure a dignified, negotiated exit
with a payoff rather than quitting as manager.

Zola's initial intention had been to leave once West Ham had secured their
future in the Premier League but his stance is understood to have shifted
over the past week and, rather than walking away and appearing to accept
full responsibility for this season's toils, he will now seek a settlement
over the remaining two years of a contract worth £1.9m a season.

The Italian's relationship with the co-owners, David Gold and David
Sullivan, has been fractious at best. He has become more defiant in part
because of the support he has received from the players and is deeply
frustrated by Sullivan's comments that all of the squad, bar the midfielder
Scott Parker, will be available for sale this summer.

Gold said he hoped Zola would stay as manager after Saturday's win against
Wigan Athletic all but mathematically kept West Ham in the top flight for
another season. The co-owner was speaking sincerely but the words put the
onus on Zola to quit if he were unhappy and the manager is now less minded
to do that.

Gold and Sullivan will meet Zola to discuss his future after the final game
of the season on 9 May. "Franco has indicated he doesn't want to discuss his
position until the end of the season and that's fine by us," said Sullivan,
who has yet to indicate publicly whether he wants Zola to stay on. "We shall
ask him what he has in mind, we will see what he wants to do."

There was an indication that West Ham may well be planning for a future
without Zola in the £4m bid the club has made for Graham Dorrans, the West
Brom midfielder. This was rejected by Jeremy Peace, the West Brom chairman,
who said: "As I have stressed several times since we achieved promotion over
two weeks ago our aim now is to retain our core players and try to
strengthen our squad around them. I want to make it clear again that Graham
Dorrans is not for sale."

With Zola's future in doubt any interest in Dorrans would surely have been
driven by Gold and Sullivan rather than a manager who might soon be leaving.

Zola came close to resigning at the end of last month when he returned to
his native Sardinia to consider his position after a run of six consecutive
defeats, which threatened West Ham's Premier League status. But Zola
returned to declare he wanted to stay to help West Ham avoid relegation, and
his team collected seven points from the next four games to make the club
all but secure. The Italian has had a particularly difficult season, with
West Ham's onfield struggles compounded by fragile finances and the
criticism players received from Sullivan, who bought West Ham with Gold in
January.

Following West Ham's 3-1 home defeat by Wolverhampton Wanderers on 23 March
Sullivan published an open letter on the club's website in which he
described that performance as "shambolic and pathetic". This caused Zola an
unwanted distraction ahead of the following game with Stoke City, which was
lost, prompting the manager's bout of soul-searching in Sardinia.

West Ham's difficult season was also reflected by Sullivan insistence that
only Parker was not for sale. He said: "Other than Scott Parker, there is
not a player we wouldn't sell if it was the right bid. Scott will not be
sold and we will be buying more than we are selling. There will be no
fire-selling and we will enhance the squad, not diminish it. We will have to
shake up the pack because there is no point kidding ourselves otherwise we
will be in the same position next year – the table doesn't lie."

Hesaid although Matthew Upson would be offered a new contract, his England
colleagues Robert Green and Carlton Cole would not. "We'll make [Upson] a
proposal for a new three-year contract. We would give him an offer of a
comparable level to what he is on now. But Upson has a year to go so if we
get a good offer we will take it."

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West Ham Res 3-2 Fulham Res
Tuesday 27th April 2010
Fulham FC

Fulham's Reserves lost their final game of the season on Tuesday evening at
Upton Park. The Whites took an early lead through Marcello Trotta. But West
Ham equalised through Oliver Lee before taking the lead courtesy of Junior
Stanislas. The home side made sure of all three points when Cristian Montano
scored on 82 minutes. Richard Peniket netted an injury time consolation goal
for Fulham. Billy McKinlay's side made a fine start with both Alex Smith and
Trotta having good early opportunities to hand Fulham in the lead. Trotta,
the Italian under 19 international, was looking real a threat early on. On
eight minutes he saw a 25 yard effort easily collected by West Ham keeper
Peter Kurucz. And the home side's custodian had to be on top form moments
later when he once again denied Trotta. Fulham took the lead on 11 minutes
after Alex Smith was able to round his opponent before clipping a ball to
the far post where Trotta was on hand to head home. Unfortunately the lead
was only to last a couple of minutes. The home side were back on level terms
when a clearance fell to the feet of Oliver Lee who finished well from 25
yards. West Ham took the lead shortly before the half-hour mark when Junior
Stanislas converted a low cross from close range. With just two minutes to
go before the half-time interval Fulham striker Stefan Payne almost netted
the equaliser. The front man raced clear of the West Ham defence but
unfortunately fired his shot wide of goal. Fulham started the second-half
much the brighter side. Payne, once again, came close to levelling the
scores on 51 minutes after he received a pass from Trotta - only to fire
over. Fulham continued to press forward in search of an equaliser and only a
good save from Kurucz denied Courtney Harris. Those scares spurred West Ham
into action and the Whites were fortunate not to concede when Cristian
Montano missed a hat-trick of chances all within a matter of minutes.
However, Montano finally managed to beat Neil Etheridge in the 82nd minute
after latching on to a through ball and driving a powerful low effort into
the net. Richard Peniket scored the final goal of the game late into injury
time with an expert finish past Kurucz.

Fulham: Etheridge, Marsh-Brown, Briggs, Pierre (Peniket 88), Toure,
Pritchard, Harris (Frei 80), Buchtman, Trotta, Payne (Kamau 88), Smith

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Hammers planning move for Boateng
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
ESPN
April 27, 2010

West Ham are planning a summer move for Portsmouth midfielder Kevin-Prince
Boateng, who is one of a host of Pompey players set to leave Fratton Park at
the end of the season. Boateng joined Portsmouth from Spurs last August
after admitting his career had stalled since arriving in England from
Bundesliga outfit Hertha Berlin in 2007. And he has been one of Pompey's
most consistent performers in a torrid season, netting five goals in 25
games - including the second goal in the 2-0 FA Cup semi-final victory over
Spurs. West Ham have already signalled their intent to strengthen the squad
to ensure they are not embroiled in another relegation battle next season,
though a £4 million bid for West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans was turned
down by the Championship club on Tuesday. Now the Hammers have turned their
attention to Boateng, and with Portsmouth already admitting their entire
squad is up for sale, West Ham can expect to get the German-born midfielder
in a cut-price deal. Ironically, Pompey boss Avram Grant could also be
heading to Upton Park, as he is reportedly one of the favourites to land the
manager's job should Gianfranco Zola resign or be sacked. But there are many
other top names in the frame if the Hammers do change manager, with Slaven
Bilic and Steve McClaren topping the candidates.

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The great West Ham clear-out: Who's up for grabs and how much will they cost
in the big summer sale
By Tom Bellwood
Last updated at 5:47 PM on 27th April 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham are safe for another season - but the players are not. Co-owner
David Sullivan has revealed that the club will accept offers on every player
this summer, except Scott Parker. The Hammers have struggled all season
under manager Gianfranco Zola and have only just staved off the threat of
relegation with two games to spare. So Sullivan has promised a reshuffle in
the summer – the dead wood will be cleared away and a raft of new playing
bought in its place. So with anywhere up to 25 players set to head for the
exit, Sportsmail analyses the Hammers under threat and how much the club
could recoup from a mass sale.

Allesandro Diamanti - Fans love him as he's as close to having Paolo Di
Canio back as they're ever going to get. Naturally gifted, wonderful
finisher, but prone to anonymity.
Value: £3m
Possible destinations: West Brom, Napoli

Benni McCarthy -Not one of the club's finest moves. McCarthy has looked off
the pace, overweight and has struggled in front of goal when handed
opportunities.
Value: £1m
Possible destinations: Galatasaray, Celtic

Carlton Cole - Fans will be disappointed to see Cole leave. Their powerful
forward wears his heart on his sleeve and has scored nine vital goals.
Value: £10m
Possible destinations: Aston Villa, Arsenal, Liverpool

Danny Gabbidon - The Wales international has featured just 11 times this
season as injuries continue to hamper his time at Upton Park.
Value: £500,000
Possible destination: Cardiff, Rangers

Fabio Daprela - Brought in as cover last summer and has made just seven
appearances for the Hammers this season.
Value: £500,000
Possible destination: Grasshoppers

Frank Nouble - Made 10 appearances earlier in the season but barely for more
than a few minutes. Now on loan at Swindon.
Value: £1m
Possible destinations: Reading, QPR, Ipswich

Freddie Sears - Has spent the season on loan at Crystal Palace and Coventry
City, appearing just twice for the Hammers.
Value: £500,000
Possible destinations: Crystal Palace, Watford

Herita Ilunga - Always an outlet going forward but suspect at the back. Has
only featured once this year.
Value: £2m
Possible destination: Paris St Germain, Blackburn

Junior Stanislas -Another product of the Academy – full of running and no
shortage of ability but needs more games. Could still attract interest from
some leading clubs.
Value: £2.5m
Possible destinations: Aston Villa, Tottenham

Jack Collison - Started the season as an exciting prospect but will end it
knowing he has plenty of work to do. A hardworking midfielder with real
touches of class.
Value: £1.5m
Possible destinations: Ipswich, Sheffield United

James Tomkins - Aside from a couple of high-profile mistakes, Tomkins has
proven himself a decent prospect. Strong in the air but needs more
experience.
Value: £2m
Possible destinations: Tottenham, Fulham, Bolton

Jonathan Spector - The own goal against Wigan was unfortunate but has
generally done well. Willing to shift to unfamiliar positions and has
commendable workrate.
Value: £500k
Possible destinations: Wigan, Wolves

Julien Faubert - A pacy defender who has looked more comfortable going
forward than dealing with duties at the back. His cross for Ilan's goal at
Everton was stunning.
Value: £1.5m
Possible destinations: Rangers, Bordeaux

Kieron Dyer - A player synonymous with all that was wrong at West Ham. A
highly paid former international who has failed to deliver after a series of
nasty injuries.
Value: £1.2m
Possible destinations: QPR, Ipswich Town

Matthew Upson - Few players have seen their standing in the game drop as
much as Upson this season. Has been troubled by imposing forwards and his
heading hasn't been up to scratch.
Value: £7m
Possible destinations: Tottenham, Blackburn

Mark Noble - Suffered as many players have this season – showing moments of
brilliance and no lack of hard work - but an underlying lack of confidence
has hampered his development.
Value: £4.5m
Possible destinations: Tottenham, Fulham

Manuel da Costa - Endeared himself to Hammers fans by joining as part of the
deal which saw Savio depart. Has acquitted himself in his few opportunities
this term.
Value: £2m
Possible destinations: Fulham, Bolton

Robert Green - A certainty for Fabio Capello's World Cup squad but it hasn't
been a great season for Green who has suffered at the back of an
ever-changing defence.
Value: £8m
Possible destinations: Arsenal, Sunderland

Radoslav Kovac - A tenacious and talented midfielder who has made 28
appearances this season. A hard worker who is let down occasionally by his
passing.
Value: £2m
Possible destinations: Sunderland, Celtic

Valon Behrami - It's all or nothing from the Swiss international. He either
dazzles with creativity and finishing or rather ambles unnoticed through a
game.
Value: £8m
Possible destinations: Palermo, Stuttgart, Juventus

Zavon Hines - Thrust into the limelight with Zola facing a number of
injuries and enforced sales this term. The 21-year-old has shown moments of
brilliance but injury has decimated his season.
Value: £1m
Possible destinations: Blackburn, Wigan

TOTAL VALUE £60.2m

OR DOES ANYONE FANCY ONE OF THESE PLAYERS...? AVAILABLE ON A FREE

Ilan - Free signing from Saint Etienne - his goals against Everton,
Sunderland and Wigan have gone a long way to helping stave off relegation.
Possible destination: West Ham (permanent deal)

Guillermo Franco - Joined on a free and scored four goals - Franco, 32, has
impressed but is considered too old to be offered an extension to his
one-year contract.
Possible destinations: Blackburn, Stoke

Luis Boa Morte - Not a hugely popular player with the fans, the former
Portugal international, 32, hasn't played all season after suffering
cruciate ligament damage in pre-season.
Possible destinations: Wolves, Reading

Mido - Joined the Hammers on loan from Middlesbrough in January – and will
no doubt be returning up north after a poor spell at Upton Park.
Possible destinations: Middlesbrough, Al Ahli

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Rio's tribute to legend Moore
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today

RIO FERDINAND will have the honour of wearing Bobby Moore's No 6 shirt in
the testimonial for West Ham youth coach Tony Carr next Wednesday. The 1966
World Cup-winning skipper wore that number but it was retired by the Hammers
following Moore's death from cancer in 1993. Carr has named Ferdinand ahead
of the likes of Joe Cole, Michael Carrick, Frank Lampard, Glen Johnson and
Paul Ince as his star pupil during a 30-year career at Upton Park. Carr, 59,
said: "I guess Rio nicks it because he had it all, even as a kid. "He was
quick, he could jump, pass and defend. "He was a superb athlete and had
reams of natural talent. "I want to give him the No 6 shirt next week
because he is England captain and that number belonged to another special
England skipper still much loved at this club. "I hope it could be the
secret weapon to bring the World Cup back this summer."

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Why David Sullivan is right to instigate a clear-out at West Ham
By Dan Silver in Mirror Football Blog
Published 12:02 27/04/10
The Mirror

You might not have noticed, but West Ham have new owners. The shy and
retiring Blues Brothers David Sullivan and David Gold have been somewhat
reticent in coming forward since they took over at Upton Park last January -
did you know, for example, that Mr Gold grew up in the house at 442 Green
Street? Amazingly, it's true, but he doesn't like to talk about it - but
they finally broke their self-imposed silence yesterday, claiming that
everyone in the squad bar Scott Parker is for sale , and that Avram Grant is
yet another contender for beleaguered boss Gianfranco Zola's job .

I'm joking, of course - Gollivan, as the duo have been
less-than-affectionately dubbed in the East End, aren't so much in love with
the sound of their own voices as completely smitten, writing public love
letters to themselves at the drop of a point. And yet while you may disagree
with their methods, even the bluffest traditionalists in the Chicken Run
would be forced to concede that they may be on to something. The scrappy
weekend win over Wigan that effectively preserved West Ham's Premier League
status - not so much a Great Escape as a bungled attempt to vault over the
prison walls using a matchstick - was heralded in some quarters as a
vindication for Zola. The players themselves certainly seemed to think so,
many making a point of publicly celebrating the result with their manager.
And yet, the indisputable fact is that West Ham should not have been in this
position in the first place.

Recent results against Sunderland, Everton and Wigan were the equivalent of
trying to cover the Grand Canyon with a sheet of A4 paper; the meagre total
of six wins from the previous 32 league games - including dismal defeats to
Wolves, Burnley, Bolton, Stoke and Wigan - revealing the real story of the
season. Sure, the Hammers have had to endure boardroom ructions for much of
the past nine moths, but the truth is that their predicament was a result of
what happened on the pitch rather than off of it. And that particular buck
must stop with both the players and the coaching team. The stock line
trotted out by Zola sympathisers is that he's a good man (look at his little
smiling face!) who deserves to be given a chance to become a top-flight
manager. My uncle's also a good man, but I wouldn't want him in charge of my
football club. And it goes without saying that the majority of people
advocating this line of defence support other clubs. Would they want Zola in
charge of their own team? Of course they wouldn't.

It doesn't help that, despite his own protestations to the contrary, the
Sardinian appears to have learned nothing from his time in management. If
anything, he's gone backwards.
Zola's near fatal adherence to a particular formation and style of football
that works wonders with the talents that, say, his beloved Chelsea can count
on but was almost entirely unsuited to the playing staff he helped shaped at
Upton Park appeared to be borne out of a potent cocktail of naivety and
stubbornness. As a result the team lacked any real width, players were
frequently played out of position and, once the system was found out by
opponents, Zola patently lacked any alternative plan. That's not to say that
the players weren't culpable either.

Motivation was clearly an issue. Goalkeeper Rob Green warned earlier in the
season about the arrogance seeping into the side and yet his words went
unheeded - as much by himself as anyone else, it should be noted. Even when
supposedly fighting for their lives, West Ham's alleged stars started too
many games as if warming up on Hackney marshes, only shaken out of their
torpor by the sight of Green's net rippling yet again.

For all Matthew Upson's spirit and bravura when confronted by angry fans
following that cataclysmic home mauling by Wolves , the Hammers captain was
a peripheral figure on the pitch. And this from an England international
supposedly playing for his place on the plane to South Africa. If Upson
fails to make Fabio Capello's squad - and on the basis of form he should be
nowhere near it - then expect a series of self-pitying interviews in the
press this summer claiming he needs to leave Upton Park to further his
career.

How fitting, then, that Scott Parker scored the decisive goal on Saturday,
for he has, at times, single-handedly dragged his team from the mire, and is
surely the only member of staff who can tally his season's work with the
grossly inflated pay packet he'll take home for it. Which brings us to that
most recent proclamation from Gollivan that everyone bar the midfielder is
up for sale.

Snipers will point out that once again the co-chairmen are putting their
love for publicity before the good of their club. But, as with their
controversial call to cut players' wages issued before the crucial clash
with Birmingham - a game that West Ham won 2-0, of course, courtesy of a
performance more spirited than any that had preceded it - it's hard to fault
their intentions. Zola won't like it, the players won't like it and,
presumably, a large section of the support won't like it either. But the
Academy of Football has been in need of a serious clean out for some time
now. And the new chairmen should be applauded for having the guts to finally
face up to it - no matter what sort of broom they choose to employ in doing
so.

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West Brom slap £12m price tag on Dorrans
Published 23:00 27/04/10 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

West Brom have slapped a £12million price tag on prized asset Graham Dorrans
in a bid to scare off West Ham and other Premier League predators. And
Albion are ready to offer the Scotland international a bumper new contract -
just four months after the midfielder last agreed fresh terms. Dorrans has
been regularly watched by Arsenal, Manchester City and Everton this season,
while West Ham's written offer of £4m was swiftly rejected yesterday
morning.

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West Ham drop interest in Dave Jones
Apr 28 2010 by Mark Bloom, Western Mail

WEST HAM have ended any interest in pursuing Cardiff City boss Dave Jones
after their 3-2 win over Wigan secured Premier League status for next
season. The Bluebirds manager was being touted in London newspapers as a
potential successor to Gianfranco Zola if the Hammers were relegated into
the Championship. Swansea City's Paulo Sousa was also being linked with the
Hull job, speculation that has not yet gone away. But an impeccable source
close to West Ham co-owner David Sullivan says the club will look for a
higher-profile individual if Zola does leave this summer. Croatia manager
Slaven Bilic, ex-England boss Steve McClaren and Portsmouth's Avram Grant
are being touted for the Upton Park post, but the name of Jones has dropped
out of the frame. Our source told us: "David believe Jones has done a great
job at Cardiff, but the Premiership is a different game entirely. "If West
Ham went down to the Championship he would have been high on the list, given
the remarkable track record he has at Championship level. "But the club
needs an experienced campaigner at the higher level. "There is no room in
the Premiership for taking gambles on managers and, for that reason alone,
Jones would be out of the frame."
Jones said he was flattered to be linked with the West Ham job, but
maintains his focus is 100 per cent on the Bluebirds and their own Premier
League dream via the play-offs.
The future of current boss Zola has been questioned since Sullivan and David
Gold took over ownership of the club. Meanwhile, Sullivan has warned that
Scott Parker is the only player the club would not consider selling if the
price is right during the planned summer shake-up at Upton Park. Sullivan is
quickly beginning preparations for a busy summer in the transfer market,
with Jack Collison and Danny Gabbidon possibly amongst the departures.
Parker scored the winner on Saturday which saved the Hammers, and Sullivan
immediately ruled the midfielder out of a potential summer exodus. Sullivan
said: "Other than Scott Parker, there is not a player we wouldn't sell if it
was the right bid. "Scott will not be sold and we will be buying more than
we are selling. There will be no fire-selling and we will enhance the squad,
not diminish it. "We will have to shake up the pack because there is no
point kidding ourselves otherwise we will be in the same position next year
– the table doesn't lie."
But, while he also expressed a wish to keep Matthew Upson, he would make no
such guarantees over the former Birmingham defender – or, for that matter,
his international colleagues Robert Green and Carlton Cole. "We will make
(Upson) a proposal for a new three-year contract," he said. "We would give
him an offer of a comparable level to what he is on now, which he may or may
not want to take. "But Upson has a year to go so if we get a good offer we
will take it."

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