WHUFC.com
Matthew Upson met some very special children during a visit to a South African orphanage
15.06.2010
The rivalry between Matthew Upson and Michael Dawson paled into insignificance during the pair's visit to a South African orphanage. The pair are battling Jamie Carragher for the right to partner centre-back John Terry in England's starting lineup in Friday's 2010 FIFA World Cup Group C meeting with Algeria. However, Tuesday's visit to the SOS Village put their aims on the football pitch into perspective. Following their morning training session, the defenders headed for the orphanage in Tlhabane Township in Rustenburg, where they met a group of very special children. The Football Association has funded a building at the SOS Village known as a 'home', which provides a comfortable living environment for the 80 youngsters living there. There, they are looked after by 'mothers', staff members who provide care for the children orphaned by causes such as violent crime or AIDS. Father-of-one Upson was introduced to Babu and Muzi, two of around 60 children to turn out to meet him, before handing out goodie bags filled with England toys, footballs and clothing. "I have made a friend here!" smiled the Hammers captain, who carried Babu around on his shoulder. "It is a welcome change to come out here. It takes your mind away from football. It is something very rewarding and very worthwhile. "It has been a great experience and one that puts everything into perspective. These people need help and football has helped provide for them."
Upson was not the only one moved by his experience. Dawson and his Tottenham Hotspur club-mates each sponsor a child at the orphanage and Tuesday's visit enabled him to meet 12-year-old Aubrey for the first time. The West Ham defender's partner Ellie Darby has also been in South Africa filming the BBC3 documentary 'WAGs, Kids and World Cup Dreams' in which she highlighted the struggles faced by many local people during the tournament. You do not have to be a professional footballer to sponsor a child at one of the more than 500 SOS Children's Villages situated in 124 countries around the world.
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Summer signings update
WHUFC.com
David Sullivan has given fans the latest on the search for new arrivals before the 2010/11 season
15.06.2010
West Ham United are continuing to make good progress in the search for new players to bolster Avram Grant's squad for the new season. With the start of pre-season training less than three weeks away, the club is hopeful of following up on the signing of highly-rated Germany midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger with at least one more exciting new recruit before 5 July. More reinforcements will then follow over the summer months. West Ham United Chairman David Sullivan said: "It is only right that we keep supporters informed as much as we can of what we are working on, especially as there is so much speculation around this time of year. "With the World Cup taking place, it is not as easy to conclude deals but I can assure fans we are working 24/7 with the manager to bring new players to the club. "We have limited resources, with the £100m debt the club carries, but we are going to make every penny count and we 100 per cent assure you that there will be more new arrivals this summer. It is very possible we will have another one in within the next two to three weeks, if not sooner." As ever, whufc.com will be the place for all the official transfer news this summer so make sure to visit daily to keep in touch. Fans on the move or away on holiday should sign up for official mobile text alerts to get the news first and fastest.
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Hitzlsperger on a high
WHUFC.com
The first summer signing has grand plans for his new start at West Ham United
15.06.2010
Thomas Hitzlsperger is gearing up for life as a West Ham United player and is excited about the prospect of playing under Avram Grant. The 28-year-old Germany midfielder has experience at the highest level with club and country and sees no reason why the Hammers cannot aim high, although an immediate improvement on last season's survival battle is the first priority. "I am sure the team will do better. There is a lot of talent here and it is about getting the players right and delivering what the fans want. The club has had injury problems but we just need luck there. "The quality is there and there might be a few more changes. I can see there is talent and if we can produce more often than last season then things will go well. Europe is the place to be but we have to be realistic. Certainly no one wants to just be fighting relegation - that is not what we are here for. "We know we can't expect to fight for the championship but we must improve on last season and that is what we should aim for. We have to all pull together and it will come together - the discipline and the quality you need to get results."
Having had well-documented personal frustration at S.S. Lazio during the second half of last season, the man known as 'The Hammer' is ready to take it out on Barclays Premier League opponents. "When you don't play regularly and you are watching, it leaves you frustrated. I know this club also had a frustrating season. Things will be different." First and foremost is to settle down to life in the capital, but the Munich-born midfielder is no stranger to big cities after his time in Stuttgart and Rome. It is not the bright lights that has attracted him, however. "London is a great city but my decision was solely about the club. I am going to West Ham to be successful as a footballer. You have to do your job right and then you can enjoy everything else. I am here to work and do my best. "Stuttgart was a great experience but I am glad to be going back to the Premier League [after playing for Aston Villa between 2000 and 2005]. My experience in Italy wasn't great but it will help make me stronger for this new challenge."
Since news of his move emerged, Hitzlsperger revealed he had been approached by many German fans wanting to discuss his new club. "West Ham are well known in Germany. Since the news broke a lot of people have been talking about the club and the history. "I have spoken to people who know TSV 1860 Munich and I know there is a connection there between the two clubs. West Ham have a great history, but it would be nice to write a new chapter and have success. "I saw them a bit last season and they were unfortunate. I think the only player I know personally is Carlton Cole, who had a year at Villa. You could see what a talent he was and on his day he can be as good as anyone. He is a good lad and I am looking forward to seeing him again and meeting everyone. "I am really motivated to do well. I like the claret and blue colours very much and it will be great to pull on the West Ham shirt. I also remember the stadium as well. They tell me it is special at night and I can't wait to experience that."
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Hutch hopeful for England
WHUFC.com
Ex-Scotland midfielder Don Hutchison has spoken of his hope that the Auld Enemy do well at the finals
15.06.2010
Don Hutchison may be a proud Scot through his father, but has admitted he would not mind seeing England go on and do well at the FIFA World Cup. The Gateshead-born former Hammer was capped 26 times by Scotland and memorably scored a Wembley winner against England in a UEFA Euro 2000 play-off. He said Robert Green and Matthew Upson, as well as the club's other representatives at the finals, would be relishing the experience. "It is a different mentality. It is tough when you go away to play for your country," confirmed Hutchison, who scored Scotland's winner in a 1-0 friendly victory in Germany in April 1999 as a West Ham player. "I had fantastic memories playing with Scotland going to Germany and beating them 1-0 and obviously I am still living on the England game, so I try and throw that in every now and again! "International football is all part of learning. You have to set yourself targets. When you are playing, you want to be in the first team and when you are in the first team you want to play for your country and I was lucky enough to do that on 25-odd occasions. I was a lucky man."
Fans should not be thinking that Hutchison would have taken too much delight in the Three Lions' 1-1 draw with the United States over the weekend. That said, he has had a little bit of fun at wishing anyone but England well to his mates from south of the border. "It is all tongue in cheek stuff," he told WHUTV. "I have a lot of friends involved like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. If England won the World Cup I would be more than happy for them. "I just want Brazil or Spain to win because I like the beautiful game! I am only joking there, I do hope England go on and win it. Hopefully we will see the beautiful game here at West Ham next season. I think it could be exciting times and I will be watching as a fan with interest."
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Hammers focused on Friday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's two England stars have every chance of being in the frame for selection against Algeria
15.06.2010
Matthew Upson and Robert Green were both training again with England on Tuesday with plenty of confidence they could be in line to face Algeria on Friday night. West Ham United captain Upson could be the benefit from Ledley King's groin injury, although it was Jamie Carragher who came off the bench to replace the Tottenham man in last Saturday's 1-1 draw with the United States. Upson also faces competition from late call-up Michael Dawson but a strong week in training would give Fabio Capello plenty of food for thought. Meanwhile, Robert Green has been working hard to put the US match behind him, after accepting the responsibility for the American's equaliser - when Clint Dempsey's long-range shot slipped through his hands. Former Hammers goalkeeper Shaka Hislop is working at the finals as a media pundit and was quick to lend his support.
Hislop, who admitted Capello may consider bringing in David James, said: "It was one of those things that happens to a goalkeeper from time to time although you hope it doesn't happen on a World Cup stage. I think Capello should keep playing him .... You want your manager to stand by you, at the very least publicly. Right now Rob Green needs an arm around him, he needs someone to keep his confidence. No goalkeeper is immune to mistakes - it's just how well you respond."
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West Ham await Riquelme response
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 16th June 2010
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's bid to sign former Argentinian international Juan Roman Riquelme gathered pace today after the player admitted that he was aware of United's interest. The former Argentinian international - who celebrates his 32nd birthday later this month - made his name at Boca in Argentina before finding fame on the European stage with Barcelona and Villareal. His most likely destination appeared to be Brazilian giants Flamengo until news of West Ham's interest became known. And according to latest reports, Riquelme is thought to prefer a move to the Premier League. "I am a player who can play in any side. I want to be happy and know where I am going to play. I feel I can play at the highest for many more years," the player is reported to have told the Mirror. "I have had several offers from clubs in Argentina and there is an English club asking about me and my agent is dealing with it."
Riquelme - who is described by southamericanfutbol.com as possessing a 'strange personality' whilst also being an 'incredible player' - began his pro career with his boyhood favourites Boca. After nearly seven years with Los Xeneizes he was snapped up by Barcelona for a fee of around £8million, although the move soon turned sour and he was shipped out to Villareal on loan for the next two seasons. He so impressed at El Madrigal during the loan period that Villareal signed him for a similar fee to that Barca paid Boca three eyars earlier. Riquelme repaid the club's faith in him and was nominated for the 2005 FIFA World Player of the Year award following a tremendous season in La Liga.
Having returned to Boca in 2008 in a €4million deal (following an initial short-term loan spell that followed a falling-out with coach Manuel Pellegrini) the San Fernando-born playmaker continued to impress - although his international career, that spanned twelve years and 69 caps, came to an abrupt end in March of last year after he fell out with current coach Diego Maradona and announced his immediate retirement from international football. His place in the current Argentinian squad, which won their first game of the World Cup against Nigeria last weekend, has been taken by former Manchester United and Chelsea anchor man Juan Sebastian Veron.
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West Ham near Riquelme coup
Argentinian star tempted by 'Hammers' project'
By Ben Collins Last updated: 15th June 2010
SSN
Sky Sports understands that Argentinian star Juan Roman Riquelme is on the verge of joining West Ham on a two-year deal. The former Villarreal midfielder is ready to return to Europe after a three-year stint with domestic giants Boca Juniors. Foootball agent, Barry McIntosh, has confirmed that no less than five Premier League clubs are interested in the 31-year-old, who retired from international duty after a fall-out with coach Diego Maradona. Everton and Tottenham have enquired about Riquelme's availability in the last two years while Brazilian club Flamengo have already put an offer on the table. But West Ham, who have already signed Germany international Thomas Hitzlsperger on a free transfer from Lazio this summer, are leading the race to secure Riquelme's services. "There are at least four other English clubs in the equation," McIntosh told Sky Sports News.
"But I think the location of London, the challenge at West Ham and working beside the likes of Scott Parker and Thomas Hitzlsperger have been very important factors in him considering the move. "Right now, we think the best option, the most likely, and the one he's most interested in is West Ham. "I think for a foreign player of the magnitude of Riquelme, the lure of London is always going to be a deciding factor over any other club. "So unless Arsenal come in then I think the most likely destination and the one Riquelme would be most interested in is West Ham."
Riquelme began his career at Boca before leaving for Barcelona in 2002, although he had an unsuccessful year at the Camp Nou. He then joined Villarreal, initially on loan, and helped them reach the Champions League semi-finals on their debut in the competition in 2005/06. Riquelme returned to Boca on loan in 2007 after falling out with then-Villarreal coach Manuel Pellegrini and led them to the 2007 Copa Libertadores before making a permanent return home in 2008. Despite ruling himself out of contention for this summer's World Cup, Riquelme has remained in top form in Argentina and feels it is time to again take on the challenge of leading one of Europe's lesser forces, as he did at Villarreal.
"[A move] was unlikely a few weeks ago because Riquelme's No.1 club, where he is an idol, is Boca Juniors," McIntosh added. "He played for them on very small financial terms to satisfy the fans. "But it's come to the position now where he feels he may have to look at all the other options that are being offered to him because he doesn't feel like he's getting value for money in terms of staying at Boca. "That has alerted a number of other clubs from Brazil to Europe and even in Qatar, offering multi-million pound deals. "But I think he'd like to be a part of the project of West Ham, and what David Sullivan and David Gold have got in mind for the future for the club, including the new stadium. "In precise words, Riquelme has said that in terms of going to a club like Manchester United, it wouldn't really be an attraction to him because if he goes there they could win the Champions League - they've already done it - or they win the FA Cup - they've already done it. "He wants to go to a club where he's going to make a mark."
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Hitz ready for Hammer time
German star ready for second Premier League coming
By Danny Wright Last updated: 15th June 2010
SSN
West Ham summer signing Thomas Hitzlsperger says he wants to help the club climb the table following his arrival at the club. The Hammers avoided relegation from the Premier League at the expense of Hull City last season, recording a disappointing 17th placed finish. Hitzlsperger became the first signing of new manager Avram Grant's reign at Upton Park and the capture from Lazio believes the Hammers will avoid a relegation battle this season. He told the club's official website: "I am sure the team will do better. There is a lot of talent here and it is about getting the players right and delivering what the fans want. The club has had injury problems but we just need luck there. "The quality is there and there might be a few more changes. I can see there is talent and if we can produce more often than last season then things will go well. Europe is the place to be but we have to be realistic. "Certainly no one wants to just be fighting relegation - this is not what we are here for. We know we can't expect to fight for the championship but we must improve on last season and that is what we should aim for. "We have to all put together and it will come together - the discipline and the quality you need to get results."
The move from Serie A to the Premier League will be Hitzlsperger's second spell in the English top flight following a previous stint with Aston Villa. The 28-year-old left Villa to play for Stuttgart, where he spent a further four years before leaving to join Lazio in January. The transfer window move proved frustrating for the midfielder, though, as he struggled to feature regularly for the Italian side. But Hitzlsperger revealed he was ready to put the disappointment behind him with the Hammers this season and said he could not wait to pull on the shirt. He said: "When you don't play regularly and you are watching, it leaves you frustrated. I know this club also had a frustrating season. Things will be different. "Stuttgart was a great experience but I am glad to be going back to the Premier League. My experience in Italy wasn't great but it will help make me stronger for this new challenge." He added: "I am really motivated to do well. I like the claret and blue colours very much and it will be great to pull on the West Ham shirt. "I also remember the stadium as well. They tell me it is special at night and I can't wait to experience that."
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Upson shrugs of Franz flak
The Sun
By ANDY BAKER
Published: 15 Jun 2010
MATTHEW UPSON shrugged off Franz Beckenbauer's 'kick and rush' jibes and said: I don't care how we play, as long as we win.' German legend Beckenbauer rubbished the Three Lions football under Fabio Capello, claiming they have gone backwards with the £6million-a-year boss in charge. England were held 1-1 by USA on Saturday while the Germans thrashed Australia in their World Cup opener. But Der Kaiser's taunts were met with a shrug of the shoulders from the England camp who do not believe a single 4-0 defeat of an ageing Australia outfit gives the Germans any reason to crow. Upson rapped: "We will play the football that suits us best. "We want to win matches, so we will play the style according to that. "Whatever he thinks about our style of play is his opinion. If we are accused of kick and rush but win something, I don't think many people would complain."
Ledley King's groin injury and Jamie Carragher's shaky display up against American striker Jozy Altidore has put Upson, 31, in pole position to replace the Spurs defender in Friday night's second game against Algeria. The West Ham centre-back admits Capello has been working hard with his squad in training - although the Italian is not going overboard in the wake of Saturday's disappointing result. Upson said: "The manager has indicated he was very pleased with certain aspects of our performance. Whenever he watches us play he looks for the things he wants to see - it might be different to what everyone else sees. "On Saturday he saw some things he was very pleased with. I also think he saw some things he'd want us to improve on. "That is the key to management. We have been working on it in training and, hopefully, that will make us a better team in future. "I am desperate to play my part. I have to be patient and keep working hard in training. "That has been my main focus since I have been here. That is not going to change for the duration of the tournament. "Everything else is outside my control."
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Grant eyes up Nigerian stopper
The Sun
From ROB BEASLEY
Published: Today
ROB GREEN'S week just got worse with the news that West Ham want Nigeria keeper Vincent Enyeama. New boss Avram Grant is keen on the Hapoel Tel-Aviv stopper, who was superb for the Super Eagles against Argentina last week. Israeli Grant now plans a £4m swoop. A Hammers insider said: "Enyeama was absolutely superb against Argentina and he'd be a brilliant buy. "So Avram Grant is using his Israeli connections to clinch a deal as soon as the World Cup ends." The news is another blow for England No 1 Green after his horrific blunder gifted the USA a draw in last Saturday's tussle.
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Riquelme 'keen on West Ham'
The SUn
Published: 15 Jun 2010
FORMER Barcelona star Juan Roman Riquelme's agent admits the player could be on the verge of a stunning switch to West Ham The Argentine playmaker, 31, is out of contract at Boca Juniors and keen to return to Europe. And while agent Barry McIntosh admits five Premier League clubs are interested in his man, it seems Upton Park is his most likely destination. McIntosh said: "There are at least four other English clubs in the equation, but the location of London, the challenge at West Ham and working besides the likes of Scott Parker and Thomas Hitzlsperger have been very important factors in him considering the move. "Right now, we think the best option, the most likely, and the one he's most interested in is West Ham. "For a foreign player of Riquelme's magnitude, the lure of London is always going to be a deciding factor. "So unless Arsenal come in, the most likely destination and the one Riquelme would be most interested in is West Ham." Riquelme ruled himself out of Argentina's World Cup squad after a bust-up with coach Diego Maradona. But after three years at Boca he wants to secure a more lucrative salary and McIntosh added: "That has alerted a number of other clubs from Brazil to Europe and even in Qatar, offering multi-million pound deals. "But I think he'd like to be a part of the project of West Ham, and what David Sullivan and David Gold have got in mind for the future for the club, including the new stadium. "In precise words, Riquelme has said that in terms of going to a club like Manchester United, it wouldn't really be an attraction to him because if he goes there they could win the Champions League - they've already done it - or they win the FA Cup - they've already done it. "He wants to go to a club where he's going to make a mark."
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Algeria practicing long-range shots ahead of England showdown
Published 22:30 15/06/10 By David McDonnell
The Mirror
Algeria are planning to target calamity keeper Rob Green and believe they can pull off the shock of the World Cup by beating England. England take on Algeria in Cape Town on Friday in what has become a must-win game for Fabio Capello's men after their disappointing opener against the US ended 1-1. Green's howler in letting Clint Dempsey's speculative shot over the line was watched by Algeria's players, who are hopping the England keeper is picked so they can put him under similar pressure from long-range.
Although Capello has yet to decide whether to stick with Green, Algeria's players are said to have been practising shots from outside the area in training, acutely aware of the West Ham keeper's vulnerability and the unpredictable swerve of the controversial Jumbalani World Cup ball. "We'd certainly not mind if it [Green's blunder] happened again," said skipper Antar Yahia. "And we will try to put pressure on England and their goalkeeper. We are determined to make the Algerian people proud of us. "We have qualities which should shine through against England. We are going to pose problems for the English. We will be more ambitious than we were against Slovenia and that is a role that suits us better. "It'is obviously going to be hard for us, but England were not quite on their game against the US and football is not an exact science. England have great individuals, big players, but as we saw on Saturday, their team is perhaps not yet in top gear. "We are well-organised and we will have to see how we adapt tactically. For us what really matters is to learn the lessons from our defeat to Slovenia. We haven't got much time to correct things. "We have a tight defence and we have got to stay that way, but also pose the English problems ourselves. Against Slovenia we were solid, we were well organised, but unfortunately we did not get any points. "That is really frustrating. We made big mistakes and we put ourselves in difficulty. We gave gifts to the opposition. I hope in the next match we don't make mistakes like that which will prove as costly."
Algeria coach Babah Saadane admitted his side were still huge underdogs against England, despite the shaky start made by Capello's men. But he also said his players would be ready to take advantage of any mistakes made by England. "Mistakes are part of football, as we saw with the England goalkeeper," said Saadane. "At this level, mistakes like that are immediately punished. Now we have got to prepare for a really difficult and big match against England. We can't feel down after losing to Slovenia, we have got to be at our maximum."
Algeria and Portsmouth defender Nadir Belhadj said his country could draw confidence from their compact performance against Slovenia, despite losing to a goal 11 minutes from time, when keeper Fawzi Chaouchi allowed the ball to spill over the line - just like Green. "I thought we played well," said Belhadj. "Slovenia are a decent team and for us it's our first World Cup together. We're still learning. One mistake, a goal - that's all it takes at this level. It was partly the ball, partly the pitch, but we can't make excuses. England and the US are two big teams and the matches against them are going to be massive."
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Riquelme: 'I can play in any side'
Published 22:45 15/06/10 By Football Spy
The Mirror
Juan Roman Riquelme insists he can still compete at the highest level and would not look out of place in the Premier League if he completes a move to West Ham. Riquelme, 31, is out of contract at Boca Juniors and was close to agreeing a move to Brazilian side Flamengo before he was made aware of interest from several European clubs. The Argentine legend has a wealth of experience having played in the Champions League with Villarreal and Barcelona and would love the chance to showcase his talents in England.
West Ham have emerged as the strong favourites to clinch his signature after reports in Argentina suggested he favours a move to London and has been impressed by the plans which co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold have got for the club. Riquelme failed to make it into the Argentina squad for the World Cup this summer after having a bust-up with coach Diego Maradona, but he has vowed to show he can be one of the star players in Europe. Riquelme said: "I am a player who can play in any side. I want to be happy and know where I am going to play. I feel I can play at the highest for many more years. "I have had several offers from clubs in Argentina and there is an English club asking about me and my agent is dealing with it."
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West Ham weigh up offer for Argentine strike star
Published 22:45 15/06/10 By Football Spy
The Mirror
West Ham are set to make an offer for Saint-Etienne striker Gonzalo Bergessio. Bergessio, 25, nicknamed 'The Bull' has been attracting interest from several top clubs in Italy – but West Ham look the strong favourites to clinch his signature. The Hammers have already released Mido, Guillermo Franco and Ilan and are desperately short up front with Carlton Cole their only fit recognised forward. Boss Avram Grant has money to spend and fancies Bergessio who missed out on a place in Argentina's World Cup squad.
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The hounding of Rob Green has been over the top but he will move on, says Matthew Upson
Published 23:00 15/06/10 By John Cross
The Mirror
Matthew Upson has been quick to offer his help and support to his West Ham team mate Rob Green after his howler against the USA. But Upson has no doubt that Green will overcome his USA nightmare and be ready to face Algeria in Cape Town. Upson: I was preparing to come on for injured Ledley when Capello chose Carragher instead
Upson said: "He's tough. He's coped brilliantly. It's behind him, he knows what he's got to do. He's a big boy. He'll accept all the headlines and the hounding that he's been getting, which I think is over the top. But that's the world we live in. What I'm telling you is what he'd stand here and tell you: it's behind him and we've got to focus on the next game. He's desperate to play on Friday. He doesn't want to hide. He hasn't hidden since the moment he made the mistake." Green refused to blame the controversial adidas Jabulani ball but Upson insists that it is a major issue for all of the players. Upson added: "You'll notice it in the quality of headed goals or goals from crosses. It's so hard to read. There may be defensive errors or strikers missing chances, not making the right contact or getting the right guidance into the goal. "It can just move. So it makes it interesting. Whether or not the game needed to be made more interesting than it was, I don't know. Personally, I don't think it did. "The quality with the usual ball is ample for spectators and players, so to tamper with that seems unnecessary. "People try and keep it safe, and it ends up as a big of a dull game of chess instead of hitting long balls and trying to stretch the play. "It's difficult. With the pitches, when they're wet, the ball really zips on. If it bounces as it comes on to you, it's doubly hard. People are finding it hard work."
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Upson: I was preparing to come on for injured Ledley when Capello chose Carragher instead
Published 23:00 15/06/10 By John Cross
The Mirrir
Matt Upson last night admitted his "disappointment" at being robbed of his World Cup chance. Upson was getting warmed-up, changed and hoping to come on at half time when Ledley King had to come off injured against the USA only for Jamie Carragher to get the nod. The hounding of Rob Green has been over the top but he will move on, says Matthew Upson Upson has seen his star fall in recent times as he has gone from being first reserve centre half under Fabio Capello to fifth choice behind two players who did not kick in a ball in the qualifying campaign. King and Carragher have moved ahead of Upson in the pecking order, although the West Ham defender is still desperately hoping to start England's next game alongside John Terry against Algeria on Friday. Carragher - who was coaxed out of international retirement by Capello just three weeks before the start of the World Cup - remains favourite to keep his place as replacement for King - who was also a shock call-up for South Africa. Upson was diplomatic enough to play down his relegation in the order of preference. He would previously have been a starter against US in the absence of injured Rio Ferdinand, but when King suffered his injury on Saturday Upson, 31, said: "I was preparing to come on. "Every game, you always have to prepare as if you'll get on the pitch or you'll get caught short. Everything else is out of my control. "I just have to make sure I'm physically and mentally ready for the challenge. I can safely say that I can. Whenever I'm called upon, I'll be ready. "It is disappointing for me on a personal level. I want to play. But it's the manager's decision. He will do what's best for the team. "Ultimately, that's why we're here. We're here to win something as a group, so you have to put aside what you want and what you don't want. "You have to be collective as a group. I'm willing to accept his decision, as normal, and I'll be ready when called upon."
Upson was talking yesterday as he and Michael Dawson went on an FA visit to an orphanage in Rustenburg which put everything else in perspective. But Upson did confess that he could not let Carragher's decision to make an England comeback bother him and he insists his pace may yet give him an advantage in the battle to face Algeria. Upson said: "It's not really down to me. Whatever he (Carragher) decides to do is his business. It's completely outside my control, and my focus is me and how ready I can be. As long as I'm ready, I've done my job. "I feel very happy with my international contribution under Fabio Capello. That's why I'm here with the squad. It was an objective achieved for me to be here. "While I'm here I want to play as much as I can, and the manager will dictate that. It's his decision. "I think I used to be the quickest but I don't know now. We haven't had a race. Perhaps we should. Do you want a race? That might help me! "I'm deceptive - I might not look as if I'm that quick, but I can cover the ground. Pace is a big part of modern football. "Jamie will be playing against quick players every week in the Premier League. It's nothing unusual for him to be facing up to players like Altidore, who was playing for Hull, so everyone's equipped to dealing with it in his own way. "We've got top-class, quality players and everyone is capable of coping with it in his own way."
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Stick it up your Kaiser! England are not a long-ball team, says Upson
Published 23:00 15/06/10 By John Cross
The Mirror
Fabio Capello is determined to make Kaiser Franz Beckenbauer eat his words. German legend Beckenbauer taunted England by claiming they have gone backwards under Capello and accused them of being a "kick and rush" team . But Capello, whose England team could meet bitter rivals Germany in the last 16, is desperate to have the last laugh by leading his players to World Cup glory. And yesterday, England defender Matt Upson led the chorus of disapproval against Beckenbauer's verbal volley. Upson said: "Let them shout. You can talk as much as you want. It's all down to what happens on the pitch. I think if we focus on that, that's the most important thing." West Ham centre half Upson has also defended England's style of play after the draw with USA and insists tactics will not matter as long as they win the World Cup. Beckenbauer slammed England's performance against the USA and said the number of foreign players in the Premier League is to blame for Capello's failings. Upson added: "As far as I'm concerned, we can sit here and talk about the style of football all day, but whatever wins us something, I don't care to be honest. "Obviously we want to be as entertaining as possible. But I don't think by any means that we're a long-ball team. We've been working hard on trying to be more possession-minded. "We come from a league which has such a big transition in possession all the time compared to other leagues. That's the environment we're used to playing in. When you come to a tournament like this it's very different. "The other night, it was more of a Premier League type of game: the ball was in the air for large amounts, a lot of headed challenges between centre-half and centre-forward, people picking up knockdowns in midfield. "It had that feel about it of a Premier League game. It's something we need to adapt to and probably improve on."
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Hammers making progress - Gold
Published 18:01 15/06/10 By Pa Sports
The Mirror
West Ham co-owner David Sullivan expects the club to announce another new signing within the next three weeks. The Hammers have been linked with a number of players recently - reports on Tuesday suggested they were interested in Argentinian playmaker Juan Roman Riquelme - and they are determined to follow-up on the signing of German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger before the start of pre-season training on July 5. "It is only right that we keep supporters informed as much as we can of what we are working on, especially as there is so much speculation around this time of year," said chairman Sullivan. "With the World Cup taking place, it is not as easy to conclude deals but I can assure fans we are working 24/7 with the manager to bring new players to the club. "We have limited resources, with the £100m debt the club carries, but we are going to make every penny count and we 100% assure you there will be more new arrivals this summer. "It is very possible we will have another one in within the next two to three weeks, if not sooner."
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WEST HAM CHAIRMAN SULLIVAN PLAYS DOWN INTEREST IN RIQUELME
Daily Star
16th June 2010 By Paul Brown
WEST HAM chairman David Sullivan last night played down reports the club are set to sign former Argentina star Juan Roman Riquelme. The playmaker, 31 – who quit playing for his country after a bust-up with boss Diego Maradona – wants to leave Boca Juniors. Hammers are reportedly set to offer the ex-Barcelona and Villarreal ace a two-year deal. But sources at Upton Park suggest they have no more than a casual interest in him. West Ham have already signed German midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger, 28, this summer and Sullivan is pursuing other targets, with a striker his top priority. "We have limited resources, with our £100m debt, but we are going to make every penny count," said Sullivan.
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West Ham dismiss Green rumours
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
ESPN
June 14, 2010
West Ham have told Soccernet that reports they are looking to sell under-fire England goalkeeper Robert Green are completely unfounded. Green has come under scrutiny in the national press following his blunder in England's 1-1 draw with USA, and it has been rumoured that West Ham are ready to cash in and replace him with Richard Wright, who has been released by Ipswich. However, West Ham co-owner David Sullivan believes speculation on Green's future is a cheap shot intended to further undermine his confidence.
He told Soccernet: "It is just total nonsense that we are now trying to find a replacement for Robert Green. It is just not true. "He is our No. 1 'keeper and will remain our No. 1 'keeper next season. He's had a superb season with us and we expect him to be with us for at least the two years left on his current contract." Sullivan also hopes Green will be allowed to keep his England place so he can make amends. "Only the manager can decide who plays Friday night," he said. "If I was picking the team, it would still be Robert Green. Let's not forget his great second half save from about seven yards."
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Juan Roman Riquelme feels West Ham United offer is 'best option', reveals player's agent
Barry McIntosh confirms West Ham offer interests Riquelme...
By Alex Young
15 Jun 2010 16:27:00
Goal.com
Boca Juniors midfielder Juan Roman Riquelme could be on his way to West Ham United, according to the player's agent Barry McIntosh. The 31-year-old is out of contract at Argentine club Boca, so is available on a free transfer, which has interested West Ham — who have debts of more than £100 million. Riquelme was being lined up with a move to Brazilian side Flamengo, with an offer already on the table, but now the Hammers' interest is now in the public domain his head has seemingly been turned. McIntosh has confirmed that at least five other Premier League clubs are interested in the former Barcelona man's services. "There are at least four other English clubs in the equation," McIntosh told Sky Sports News. "But I think the location of London, the challenge at West Ham and working beside the likes of Scott Parker and Thomas Hitzlsperger have been very important factors in him considering the move. "Right now, we think the best option, the most likely, and the one he's most interested in is West Ham. "I think for a foreign player of the magnitude of Riquelme, the lure of London is always going to be a deciding factor over any other club. "So unless Arsenal come in then I think the most likely destination and the one Riquelme would be most interested in is West Ham."
Despite playing in part of Argentina's qualification for the World Cup 2010, Riquelme fell out with coach Diego Maradona and thus ruled himself out of appearing in South Africa. Now the three-time Argentina Player of the Year seemingly wants to challenge himself in European football again, after a three-year absence following his departure from Spanish side Villarreal. "[A move] was unlikely a few weeks ago because Riquelme's No.1 club, where he is an idol, is Boca Juniors," McIntosh added. "He played for them on very small financial terms to satisfy the fans. "But it's come to the position now where he feels he may have to look at all the other options that are being offered to him because he doesn't feel like he's getting value for money in terms of staying at Boca. "That has alerted a number of other clubs from Brazil to Europe and even in Qatar, offering multi-million pound deals. "But I think he'd like to be a part of the project of West Ham, and what David Sullivan and David Gold have got in mind for the future for the club, including the new stadium. "In precise words, Riquelme has said that in terms of going to a club like Manchester United, it wouldn't really be an attraction to him because if he goes there they could win the Champions League - they've already done it - or they win the FA Cup - they've already done it. "He wants to go to a club where he's going to make a mark."
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Juan Roman Riquelme would rather sign for West Ham than Manchester United, says Argentina playmaker's agent
Daily Mail
By Ashley Gray Last updated at 5:30 PM on 15th June 2010
Juan Roman Riquelme's agent has confirmed that West Ham United are in pole position to sign the Argentina playmaker. The 31-year-old former Villarreal star is out of contract with Boca Juniors and ready to return to Europe after three years in his homeland. Riquelme has no shortage of suitors - including Brazilian giants Flamengo - but his British representative Barry McIntosh says the player would rather join the Hammers than even Manchester United. 'Riquelme has said that in terms of going to a club like Manchester United, it wouldn't really be an attraction to him because if he goes there they could win the Champions League - they've already done it - or they win the FA Cup - they've already done it,' McIntosh told Sky Sports News. 'He wants to go to a club where he's going to make a mark. 'The location of London, the challenge at West Ham and working beside the likes of Scott Parker and (new signing) Thomas Hitzlsperger have been very important factors in him considering the move. 'So unless Arsenal come in then I think the most likely destination and the one Riquelme would be most interested in is West Ham. 'But I think he'd like to be a part of the project of West Ham, and what David Sullivan and David Gold have got in mind for the future for the club, including the new stadium.'
McIntosh revealed the Hammers were ahead of four other Barclays Premier League clubs, while there was also a lucrative offer on the table from Qatar. Flamengo are understood to have offered him a two-and-a-half year deal worth £45,000 a week, while fellow Brazilian side Cruzeiro, Mexico's Atlas, and Buenos Aires side Racing Club de Avellaneda have also registered their interest. Boca Juniors have not given up hope on him signing a new contract, but Riquelme is ready to take a better-paid move after three years of letting his heart rule his head on low wages. The former Villarreal star almost signed for Everton three years ago, while Tottenham have also been linked. Despite being one of the most gifted players in his homeland, Riquelme missed out on the World Cup after declaring he wouldn't play for Argentina while Diego Maradona was in charge.
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Fabio Capello blames ball for Robert Green howler in USA draw
By Matt Barlow and Matt Lawton Last updated at 11:43 PM on 15th June 2010
Daily Mail
Fabio Capello is planning to make his goalkeepers sweat again this week - but the good news for Robert Green is that the England manager blames the ball more than him for Saturday's howler against the USA. Capello's players would prefer to see the Italian name his team earlier than two hours before meeting Algeria in Cape Town on Friday. But sources insist the manager has no intention of changing an approach he feels has proved successful for him, even after the criticism he has received for putting undue pressure on Green. Unless he suddenly decides otherwise, it means that Green, Joe Hart and David James have to train this week not knowing if they will be playing in a World Cup game England now have to win. But it emerged last night that Capello is far more critical of the adidas Jabulani ball than any mistake Green might have made when he allowed Clint Dempsey's shot to spin off his gloves and cross the line. Capello is understood to be frustrated by the fact that his players have had less time with the ball than other countries, Germany among them, and believes his keeper was a victim of the controversial ball. While Capello refused to publicly back Green, instead stating that he wanted to see if the incident had affected the West Ham keeper 'psychologically' before making a decision, his take on the USA's equaliser will encourage the 30-year-old. The Italian praised Green for the save he made in the second half to deny Jozy Altidore and the squad have been impressed by his demeanour this week. While no pressure is put on players to see England team psychologist Christian Lattanzio, it has been noted that Green has not sought his help since the weekend even though Lattanzio was a 'mental strength' coach at West Ham.
Green is understood to have worked with another sports psychologist, Michael Griffiths, who was introduced to him by clubmate and England colleague Matthew Upson.
Yesterday Upson said: 'Rob's been exceptional. He's tough. He's coped brilliantly. It's behind him, he knows what he's got to do. He's a big boy. He'll accept all the headlines and the hounding he's been getting. You have to get your concrete head on and do whatever to focus on performing well on Friday. He's desperate to play. He doesn't want to hide. He hasn't hidden since the mistake. 'In the second half, his focus was really good which is testament to him mentally. 'You've seen those incidents happen before and the rest of the game has been a write-off for people. That wasn't the case for him. 'And possibly the manager will see that. He'll realise he's coped with it and moved on.'
It is understood that new West Ham boss Avram Grant has also contacted Green to offer encouragement. There was a real siege mentality in the England camp yesterday after Franz Beckenbauer declared them a 'kick and rush team' who had 'gone backwards'. Coaching staff think it could be part of a strategy to unsettle England ahead of a possible last 16 clash. 'Maybe they are scared,' said an insider.
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West Ham eyeing Fulham star Dickson Etuhu and St Etienne striker Gonzalo BergessioBy Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 12:10 AM on 15th June 2010
The Mirror
West Ham boss Avram Grant is monitoring contract talks between Fulham and Dickson Etuhu and has expressed an interest in St Etienne striker Gonzalo Bergessio. Etuhu, 28, who is with Nigeria at the World Cup finals, has one year left and is hoping for a long term deal. Argentinian Bergessio, meanwhile, is also interesting Bolton. The 25-year-old, nicknamed The Bull, is valued at around £4million.
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