Monday, February 1

Daily WHUFC News - iV 1st February 2010

Striking options excite Zola
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola cannot wait to see Benni McCarthy playing in a West Ham
United shirt
01.02.2010

Gianfranco Zola believes Benni McCarthy is the perfect man to score the
goals to send West Ham United soaring up the Barclays Premier League table.
The South African has been a prolific marksman wherever he has been, scoring
nearly 150 goals for Ajax, Celta Vigo, FC Porto and Blackburn Rovers. The
Cape Town-born striker is also the leading scorer in his country's history
with 32 goals in 77 internationals. While his record speaks for itself,
Hammers manager Zola was happy to discuss the 32-year-old's undoubted
qualities. "He will be a threat in the last third," the manager predicted.
"He is a type of player that will score goals. He will be a big help for us.
"I think he's got quality, which is what I'm looking for. He has got quality
in the last 20 metres. He's got goals in his bag and that's what I need
right now, and that's what I'm going to be asking him to produce for us.
"He'll be around the box. Obviously a player like him, you have to keep him
around the box, because he can be more effective like that."
The manager also believes McCarthy will work well with Carlton Cole and the
club's other strikers, including Mexico forward Guille Franco and young pair
Frank Nouble and Freddie Sears. Fitness permitting, Zola revealed that the
McCarthy/Cole partnership could be unleashed on Burnley at Turf Moor this
Saturday afternoon. "I think it will be a good partnership because Cole is
strong and skilful and McCarthy is also smart and skilful, so I think they
will find a good combination. Hopefully this week we're going to work on the
fitness and on Saturday they're going to be good. "I think it will be a big
help for Carlton, because it's going to give him the opportunity to be more
relaxed and also the opposition will not only have to look after one player,
they have to look after two players and that is a big thing. I think if they
work together and help each other they can really be a big asset for us. "We
are a very young team. We have a lot of young players in our squad so I
think it's not wrong that we bring in somebody with the experience, football
knowledge and also goals. So I think it's a good choice."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mido signs in
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

Egyptian striker Mido has completed a move to West Ham United. The striker
was confirmed as West Ham's second capture of the day following the arrival
of Benni McCarthy earlier. Mido, 26, confirmed the news upon leaving the
Boleyn Ground moments ago; he told reporters: "I had to sacrifice some
things but I'm here to play football again and I'm here to prove a point.
"I'm very happy to be here, it's a great club - and I'm sure I'll do well
here." Mido has signed a short-term deal with the Hammers. He joins on loan
from Championship side Middlesbrough after his season-long loan spell with
El Zamalek was terminated by mutual agreement.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Birmingham tickets on sale
WHUFC.com
The popular 'Kids for a quid' scheme is back for the visit of Birmingham
City next week
01.02.2010

West Ham United are offering under-16s the chance to see Benni McCarthy's
first home match at the Boleyn Ground for just £1 on Wednesday 10 February.
The popular 'Kids for a Quid' scheme is in place for the visit of Birmingham
City, with the Hammers set to feature new signing McCarthy along with the
likes of England stars Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Carlton
Cole. Demand is expected to be high so supporters should move quickly to
book their seats. As well as the special under-16 prices, tickets for
over-65s and young adult members start from £17.50. New chairmen David
Sullivan and David Gold saw their reign get off to a solid start in the
club's last outing at home, a goalless draw against Blackburn Rovers, and
will be hoping to add another three points against Birmingham - the club
they used to own until last October.

Anyone interested should call 0871 222 2700 via Option 1, go along to the
West Stand ticket office in person or click here.
http://www.whufcboxoffice.com/

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni McCarthy seals move to West Ham from Blackburn
BBC.co.uk

West Ham have completed the signing of striker Benni McCarthy from Blackburn
Rovers for an undisclosed fee. A deal for McCarthy was agreed last week but
the move was reported to have been held up by work permit issues. However,
the 32-year-old South Africa international has now signed a contract until
2012 and he said: "I am very pleased and extremely happy. "I am looking
forward to making up for lost time and I can't wait to make my debut. All I
want is to score goals." McCarthy also revealed he came close to joining
West Ham from Portuguese club Porto five years ago and added: "The reason
why I am happy that it has finally happened is because about five years ago
I had a disappointing experience when I thought I was going to be a West Ham
player until Porto pulled out and I had to go back. "I would have loved this
to be my first Premier League club. I went to Blackburn instead but West Ham
kept on pursuing me and eventually I am here."
Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola, speaking after Saturday's draw with
Blackburn, stated: "I do not know the terms yet but they have told me the
deal is done. "He should be available for the next game [at Burnley on
Saturday]." The news will come as a relief to the Italian after Tottenham
persuaded Monaco striker Eidur Gudjohnsen to reject the Hammers in favour of
a move to White Hart Lane. "Benni will be a threat in the last third. He is
a player who can score goals and he will be a very good help for us," added
Zola. McCarthy, who is expected to cost about £2.5m, will be new West Ham
owners David Sullivan and David Gold's first signing since their takeover of
the debt-ridden club earlier this month. Sullivan has revealed the club are
£110m in the red. However, the former Birmingham co-owner has said
bolstering Zola's squad is a priority, despite the club's financial
problems. "We are particularly short of strikers and they are the hardest
and most difficult position to fill. That's the short-term objective,"
commented Sullivan.
McCarthy, who will wear the number 17 shirt, joined Blackburn from Porto in
the summer of 2006 and has scored 52 times for the club but is eager to
boost his chances of playing for South Africa when the nation hosts the
World Cup this summer. Rumours of his exit from Ewood Park have been rife
for months, with McCarthy, who has started only nine games this season,
voicing his frustration about a lack of first-team opportunities. Rovers
boss Sam Allardyce labelled 32-year-old McCarthy "selfish" for missing
training in an apparent effort to force through the move. Allardyce said:
"The only loyalty a player has got is to himself. That's not just Benni,
that's all players today. "It's more about a selfish attitude that they
have. If something comes their way that they think they must have, they try
their very best to go and get it."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mido, Ilan - or both?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are currently holding talks with both Ilan and Mido as the 5pm
transfer deadline looms. The 29-year-old former St Etienne striker met
Gianfranco Zola and staff at Chadwell Heath earlier this morning ahead of a
proposed short-term deal. Shortly afterwards Egyptian forward Mido arrived
at the Boleyn Ground before commencing talks himself. Both strikers are
available on free transfers after Ilan agreed to terminate his contract with
the French club four months early. Mido, who joined El Zamalek - the club
with whom he started his professional career back in 1999 as a 16-year-old -
on loan from Middlesbrough back in August has been allowed to return to
England halfway through his season-long loan deal. Joint Chairman David
Sullivan told yesterday how the former Ajax and Roma striker was willing to
join the Hammers in return for just £1,000-a-week in order to prove his
worth. Although Ilan and Mido are currently the only two players undergoing
discussions at the club it is understood that further arrivals have not been
ruled out.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni: why I walked out
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

New signing Benni McCarthy had revealed what led him to go on striker at
Blackburn a week before he moved to West Ham. McCarthy refused to return to
training at Blackburn last week in protest at the club's decision to drag
their heels over a £2.5million offer from the Hammers - something which he
admits he couldn't understand as he had already been informed that he was
surplus to requirements by manager Sam Allardyce. "Since the manager took
over we never had a disagreement or fall-out," McCarthy told Sky Sports this
lunchtime. "I've always been respectful to him and he's always been up front
with me. "He's said that I wasn't in his plans, that I wasn't the kind of
player that he was looking for at that point in time with the system that he
plays. I accepted that and it was clear that it was time for me to move on.
"But then when it came to moving on and letting me go they started making
life a little difficult. The matters that I took were probably not the
right, correct way of doing things - but I just felt that I wasn't going to
get anything if I stayed there. "If the transfer window closes and I stay at
Blackburn, they weren't going to have a happy player in that situation. I
could have never been happy with playing well in one game and then being
left out [the next]. "I thought I'd served my time at Blackburn and it was
time to move on. Unfortunately I left in the manner that I never really had
a chance to say 'thank you' to the fans - but now I've got to concentrate on
West Ham and their fans."
McCarthy also revealed that he had been impressed with manager GIanfranco
Zola's comments following their initial meetings. "He's been great," said
the South African. "He's just put my mind at ease about the kind of
football, the way he's looking to play and what I can expect from the team.
It's all been perfect and I can't really complain because the team plays the
kind of football that I want to play - the kind of football that I wasn't
allowed to play when I was at Blackburn. "It's a great relief and I'm really
pleased that it's finally gone through. I'm just looking forward to starting
my first game with the team and trying to work my way to winning a place in
the starting line-up. "It's been a little bit of a headache with the visa
and work permit but I'm finally going to get the chance now to go to a team
where if it all goes well, I'll get the chance to play a role in their
revival and in better things to come. "All the stress and all the headaches
are over now so hopefully I can get in the team, start training and getting
to know my new team mates - and get the team out of the difficult situation
that we're in at the moment."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers complete McCarthy deal, Ilan move close
By Soccernet staff
ESPN
February 1, 2010

West Ham United have completed the signing of Benni McCarthy from Blackburn
Rovers for an undisclosed fee. The South Africa international had fallen out
of favour at Ewood Park and made no secret of his desire to move on, going
as far as to miss two training sessions last week. The 32-year-old has
signed a contract with the Hammers to run until 2012. He moved to Blackburn
in 2006 and enjoyed a fine first season, bagging 18 goals in 36 Premier
League starts. He made double figures again last season but this term has
started only seven games and managed just one goal. The former FC Porto and
Celta Vigo striker will aim to rediscover his scoring touch ahead of this
summer's World Cup in his homeland. West Ham, meanwhile, should complete a
deal for Brazilian forward Ilan before the deadline passes. The player,
released from his contract at St Etienne, is at Upton Park for talks and to
complete a move to the Premier League,

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCarthy makes Hammers move
Striker ready to lift Zola's men away from danger zone
Last updated: 1st February 2010
SSN

Benni McCarthy has vowed to help new club West Ham maintain their Premier
League status after completing his transfer from Blackburn. The South Africa
striker, who has joined the Hammers for an undisclosed fee, is ready to put
the final days of his Ewood Park career behind him after falling out with
Rovers boss Sam Allardyce. McCarthy has scored four goals in 16 appearances
for Allardyce's side this term, but had fallen out of favour at Ewood Park
and made no secret of his desire to move on, going as far as to miss two
training sessions last week. McCarthy is now targeting a first-team spot
following his move after putting pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year
contract. He told Sky Sports News: "Now I can just get back to playing and
getting a place in the team. I am also looking forward to getting to know my
new team-mates and help get the club out of a tough situation." The striker
also admitted he was excited by manager Gianfranco Zola's vision for the
future of the club. He added: "He has been great and has put my mind at ease
on the kind of football the team will play and what I can expect at the
club."
McCarthy also refused to criticise Blackburn boss Allardyce over the
increasingly limited role he played at the club in recent times. "I have no
complaints about Blackburn. They did not play the kind of football that I
wanted to play and so I couldn't play there," he said. "I never had a
disagreement with the manager. I have always been respectful and he has
always been up front with me. "I accepted his decision and it was clear that
I needed a move and if I had stayed they would not have had a happy player.
"I felt I served my time at Blackburn and I am sad that I never had the
chance to say thanks to the fans as they have been brilliant to me."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Middlesbrough Striker Mido Prepared To Play For £1,000-A-Week At West Ham
United
Hammers set to sign Egypt international...
By Danny Hart
Feb 1, 2010 3:33:00 PM

West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan has revealed Middlesbrough striker
Mido has offered to play for the club for just £1,000-a-week. The
26-year-old, who has been on loan at Egyptian side El Zamalek this season,
is keen to play in the Premier League again and is willing to take a
substantial pay cut to join the Hammers. Goal.com sources also understand
Mido is ready to waive £600,000 owed to him by the Egyptian club and has
asked for his papers to be rushed through for a last-minute deadline day
deal. Sullivan told The Sun: "It would be one of the most amazing deals of
all time. "He doesn't want to be known as a 'has been' of English football,
so he is willing to come here to play for a nominal fee, just £1,000-a-week.
"Mido is a rich boy, even though he is still only 26, and he told us he
doesn't need the money, but he wants to prove something in English football.
"He is a Middlesborough player who is on loan back in his home country
Egypt, but he desperate to show people here what he can do. We are hoping to
clinch this deal today."
West Ham have been desperate to sign a striker after injuries to Zavon Hines
and Carlton Cole have halted their compaign so far and a surprise move for
Mido could be on the cards if the Hammers can agree a fee with
Middlesbrough.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: West Ham in late bid to sign Nedum Onuoha on loan from Manchester
City
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 3:36 PM on 01st February 2010
Goal.com

West Ham United have made enquiries about signing England Under 21 defender
Nedum Onuoha on loan from Manchester City. The Hammers face a race against
time to wrap up the deal before Monday's 5pm transfer deadline. The Barclays
Premier League strugglers have spent much of the day trying to bring in
added firepower, signing Benni McCarthy from Blackburn for £2.5million and
holding talks with Mido, Mateja Kezman and Brazilian Araujo Ilan. But they
are also keen to tighten up a defence that has conceded 38 goals in 23
League games so far this season and they see Onuoha as the perfect addition.
The impressive 23-year-old has been tipped for full international honours,
but he has found it hard to get opportunities at Eastlands this season
following the summer arrivals of centre-backs Kolo Toure and Joleon Lescott.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni McCarthy seals £2.2m move from Blackburn to West Ham - and former
Spurs striker Mido could also arrive
Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 2:20 PM on 01st February 2010

West Ham have completed the £2.2million signing of Benni McCarthy from
Blackburn while talks are ongoing over a loan move for Mido. Hammers boss
Gianfranco Zola has boosted his attacking options with the capture of
McCarthy and the South African could be joined at Upton Park by former
Tottenham, and Wigan striker Mido. Mido is on loan at Zamalek and if Zola
fails to land the Middlesbrough striker he is likely to turn his attention
to St-Etienne's Ilan and PSG's Mateja Kezman. McCarthy, who could make his
debut against Burnley on Saturday after signing a contract until 2012, told
the Hammers' official website: 'I am very pleased and extremely happy. This
is a great club. 'The reason why I am happy that it has finally happened is
because about five years ago I had a disappointing experience when I thought
I was going to be a West Ham player until Porto pulled out and I had to go
back. 'I would have loved this to be my first Premier League club, I went to
Blackburn instead but West Ham kept on pursuing me and eventually I am here.
'I am looking forward to making up for lost time and I can't wait to make my
debut. The reception I have got from everyone at the club and the fans I
have already met in the street has been great. Everyone was optimistic and
gave me a really good feeling. 'It left me thinking "Wow, this is the club I
want to play for". Although I could have gone to other clubs, this was the
only one I wanted. Blackburn were very good to me and I had a wonderful time
there but now this is a new opportunity. This for me is fantastic and I
can't wait to play for the manager. 'They wanted me before, it didn't happen
but now the opportunity arises again and this time I am going to prove
myself. It is my destiny to be here. All I want to do is score goals for
West Ham and make the fans happy.'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - III 1st February 2010

McCarthy a happy Hammer
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola's striking options have been boosted by the arrival of Benni
McCarthy
01.02.2010

West Ham United are pleased to confirm the signing of South Africa striker
Benni McCarthy from Blackburn Rovers for an undisclosed fee. The UEFA
Champions League-winning forward has joined on a permanent contract until
summer 2012 after passing a medical and being granted a work permit. He will
wear the No17 shirt and could make his debut in Saturday's Barclays Premier
League match at Burnley. McCarthy, his country's all-time leading goalscorer
with 32 goals in 77 internationals, was thrilled to finally sign on at the
Boleyn Ground. He said: "I am very pleased and extremely happy. "This is a
great club. The reason why I am happy that it has finally happened is
because about five years ago I had a disappointing experience when I thought
I was going to be a West Ham player until Porto pulled out and I had to go
back. "I would have loved this to be my first Premier League club, I went to
Blackburn instead but West Ham kept on pursuing me and eventually I am
here."

McCarthy's reputation rose while playing under Jose Mourinho at Porto,
having first shot to prominence with AFC Ajax in the Netherlands. He then
moved on to Celta Vigo in Spain before his hugely successful stay in
Portugal. He scored 12 goals in his first eleven matches while on loan in
2001/02 before winning the domestic golden boot in the triumphant 2003/04
Champions League campaign with 20 goals in 23 matches. He joined Blackburn
in July 2006 - a year after his proposed move to West Ham fell through - and
went on to score 37 goals in 109 league matches. Already friendly with many
of his new team-mates, McCarthy, 32, has spoken of the warm welcome he has
received from everyone at the Boleyn Ground. "I am looking forward to making
up for lost time and I can't wait to make my debut. The reception I have got
from everyone at the club and the fans I have already met in the street has
been great. Everyone was optimistic and gave me a really good feeling. "It
left me thinking 'Wow, this is the club I want to play for'. Although I
could have gone to other clubs, this was the only one I wanted. Blackburn
were very good to me and I had a wonderful time there but now this is a new
opportunity. This for me is fantastic and I can't wait to play for the
manager. "They wanted me before, it didn't happen but now the opportunity
arises again and this time I am going to prove myself. It is my destiny to
be here. All I want to do is score goals for West Ham and make the fans
happy."

McCarthy is set to lead the line for his country at this summer's FIFA World
Cup on home soil, having already played and scored at both the 1998 and 2002
finals.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker going for goals
WHUFC.com
Scott Parker believes he and his fellow midfielders need to start scoring
more regularly
01.02.2010

West Ham United might be five games unbeaten, but Scott Parker is desperate
to turn draws into wins as the Barclays Premier League approaches its
climax. The Hammers have recorded four draws and a victory over Portsmouth
in their last five matches, climbing to 15th in the standings. However,
inspirational midfielder Parker knows that a run of wins over the coming
weeks will all but ensure the club's top-flight future. "We've got some
massive games coming up with teams that are around us and they're winnable
games and we really need to go and win them and get three points," said the
29-year-old. The England midfielder returned from a one-match absence with a
hamstring injury as a second-half substitute in Saturday's goalless draw
with Blackburn Rovers. A driving force as always, Parker came agonisingly
close to creating a winner for his side, beating two defenders before
stabbing a dangerous cross through the Rovers six-yard box. Attacking intent
is something Parker said he and his fellow midfielders will have to show
consistently between now and the end of the season. "I've been out for a
little bit so was pleased to get involved and try and help the team," he
said. "It's a shame we couldn't get the three points but we have to take the
positives. We got a draw and it was another clean sheet. "With my cross, I
got to the by-line and I'm sure the forwards are very disappointed they
didn't get on the end of it, but it's just one of those things. It's the way
it's going at the moment. "I think we all need to chip in [with goals from
midfield]. At the moment we need to turn the draws into wins. We're getting
a lot of draws. We're unbeaten in five now in the league, so we are doing
well and we have got a little bit of solidity about us, but we need to start
turning those points into three."
While Parker believes a victory at Burnley on Saturday would provide a
massive boost, he revealed that everyone connected with the club was already
feeling positive following the arrival of new chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold. "I think it can only be good for the team," he confirmed
"Obviously the negativity surrounding the club over the last few months
never helps. As a player, you're always probably the last to know but you
read what you read and it wasn't good. "Things have settled down and it
feels more stable now, so I'm sure we can really go and push on. We need to
win some games now. We're in a relegation fight and we need to win games.
"Thankfully now it has been dealt with. We have two owners come in who look
like, not only are they massive fans, but they really want to take the club
forward, which is pleasing."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ilan in
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

Brazilian striker Ilan is at the Boleyn Ground to finalise a move to West
Ham United. The St Etienne forward, capped three times by Brazil flew into
London this morning to put pen to paper on a deal that will see him join
United with immediate effect. Ilan, 29, arrived at the club's Chadwell Heath
training ground late this morning and could go straight into the team to
face Burnley at Turf Moor next weekend should everything proceed smoothly.
However West Ham have been in a similar position before and not landed their
man - back in 2006, when Benni McCarthy, who is also expected to be
confirmed as a Hammer later today, successfully completed a medical only to
see his then-club Porto pull out of the deal at the last minute. Fortunately
there appears to be no chance of that happening on this occasion as Ilan has
reached a mutual agreement with his current club to release him from his
contractual obligations four months early.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ilan arrives at Hammers
Brazilian expected to sign two-and-a-half-year contract
Last updated: 1st February 2010
SSN

West Ham United appear to be on the verge of completing the signing of Ilan
after the Brazilian striker arrived at the club on transfer deadline day.
The 29-year-old is expected to sign a two-and-a-half-year deal as St Etienne
are prepared to release him from the remaining six months of his current
contract. Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola has been eager to sign new attacking
options in the January transfer window following the takeover of new owners
David Gold and David Sullivan. Ruud van Nistelrooy and Eidur Gudjohnsen
snubbed moves to Upton Park in favour of Hamburg and Tottenham,
respectively, but deals for Ilan and Benni McCarthy are imminent.
Skysports.com also understands that West Ham have made late contact with
Paris St Germain's former Chelsea striker Mateja Kezman.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers contact Kezman
Former Chelsea man also linked with Portsmouth
By Patrick Haond Last updated: 1st February 2010
SSN

Skysports.com understands that West Ham United and Portsmouth have made late
contact with Paris St Germain striker Mateja Kezman. The former Chelsea man
has recently returned to the French capital after a loan spell at Zenit St
Petersburg but does not feature in the plans of Antoine Kombouare. West Ham
are in the market for strikers after missing out on Ruud van Nistelrooy and
Eidur Gudjohnsen and are therefore thought to have made enquiries, despite
an imminent deal for Benni McCarthy. The Hammers' Premier League relegation
rivals Portsmouth are also believed to have approached Kezman with a view to
securing additional attacking options. Any move would come late on transfer
deadline day but the 30-year-old would bring experience of England's top
flight. Kezman played for Chelsea during the 2004/05 season after a
£5million move from PSV Eindhoven, although his time with the Blues failed
to meet expectations as he scored just four league goals in 24 appearances.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCarthy a Hammer
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United have confirmed the arrival of striker Benni McCarthy on a
two-and-a-healf year contract. The South African striker agreed terms with
the Hammers last week but saw his signing delayed by. Talking to whufc.com,
the 32-year-old international said: "This is a great club. The reason why I
am happy that it has finally happened is because about five years ago I had
a disappointing experience when I thought I was going to be a West Ham
player until Porto pulled out and I had to go back. "I would have loved this
to be my first Premier League club, I went to Blackburn instead but West Ham
kept on pursuing me and eventually I am here."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mido is a grand striker
The Sun

MIDO has offered to play at West Ham for just £1,000-a-week. The Egyptian
striker is so desperate to prove himself in the Premier League that he is
willing to move from Middlesbrough for one of the top-flight's lowest wages.
Former Spurs ace Mido, 26, has been on loan in his home country from Boro
but wants to join West Ham. Hammers co-owner David Sullivan said: "It would
be one of the most amazing deals of all time. "He doesn't want to be known
as a 'has been' of English football, so he is willing to come here to play
for a nominal fee, just £1,000-a-week. "Mido is a rich boy, even though he
is still only 26, and he told us he doesn't need the money, but he wants to
prove something in English football. "He is a Middlesborough player who is
on loan back in his home country Egypt, but he desperate to show people here
what he can do. we are hoping to clinch this deal today."
Sullivan has ruled out a move for Spurs star Robbie Keane due to his
£105,000-a-week wages. He said: "We simply can't afford Robbie. Of course,
we'd love to sign him — but it's too much money." The Hammers are hoping to
conclude the signing of Brazilian international striker Ilan, 29, after
sealing Benni McCarthy's transfer from Blackburn this morning.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham plan moves for strikers Ilan and Mido
Ken Dyer
01.02.10
Evening Standard

West Ham were today making a late bid to solve their striker crisis. In
addition to Benni McCarthy, who was expected to complete his £2.5million
move from Blackburn, West Ham's new co-owner David Sullivan was busy trying
to tie up loan deals with Brazilian striker Ilan — who has been released
from St Etienne — plus former Tottenham striker Mido from Middlesbrough.
Ilan was at West Ham's training ground today for talks. Although born in
Brazil, the 29-year-old has an Italian passport so a work permit would not
be an issue. England striker Carlton Cole, meanwhile, is relishing the
opportunity of playing alongside South Africa international McCarthy for the
rest of the season. Cole continued his comeback from injury with a
second-half substitute appearance in the goalless draw at home to Blackburn
and said today: "I'm very happy that Benni is joining us. He is a quality
player. "I am sure I can learn from him and pick his brains. I can't wait to
start training with him."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - II 1st February 2010

Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Experience will be key when the manager leads his team in training before
the trip to Burnley
01.02.2010

Gianfranco Zola is excited about the prospect of adding experience to his
young squad this week - in the shape of a new face or two along with several
key players coming back to fitness. By the time the transfer window shuts at
5pm today, the manager will hope at the very least to have added Benni
McCarthy to his forward line, while Guille Franco is getting closer to a
full training return. The manager can also look forward to a full week's
work with Herita Ilunga, Scott Parker, Kieron Dyer and Carlton Cole. Parker
and Cole were late arrivals against Blackburn Rovers on Saturday and, for
all their efforts, were unable to inspire the team to more than the point
earned from a goalless draw. Parker in particular opened up the visitors'
defence with a late run only to see his cross fizz across the six-yard box
with no one on the end. Zola said: "When Scott came on he looked dangerous
and did well. It is good to have Carlton and Scotty back. They will be so
important next weekend at Burnley. This week they will train fully and that
will be good for them. They will be all right for Saturday."
The manager is clear the older heads will be invaluable. The two England
internationals were big plusses against Rovers but the manager was more than
happy with the contribution of several youngsters on view, not least
18-year-old Frank Nouble and 20-year-old Freddie Sears. "We are already a
very young team," he acknowledged though when asked about the prospect of
McCarthy in his attack at Burnley on Saturday. "We have a lot of young
players in our squad so I think it is not wrong that we bring someone in
with experience, with football knowledge and also goals."
He also spoke about the importance as well of easing the burden of
expectation of top scorer Cole, who has battled so gamely to get back to
fitness after two months out. "It will take pressure off him. A lot has been
on his shoulders. "It will give him good help and the opportunity to be more
relaxed and also the opposition will not only have to look after one player.
They will have to look after two and that is a big thing."
With the trip to Turf Moor coming up this weekend before Birmingham City
arrive on Wednesday week, Zola knows there is potential for the team to put
some real breathing space between themselves and the bottom three. "We are
looking for a run of two or three games where we can push out of this
situation," he said. He claimed there would not be a repeat of the
nervousness that appeared to affect Saturday's showing. "It won't happen
again," he said, suggesting that encouraging the players to express
themselves "with freedom" would be a major focus of the next few days. The
transfer window closing will allow him to do just that, adding to the
considerable bonus of the ownership situation being resolved. Chairmen David
Sullivan and David Gold are fully settled in and working hard in the
transfer market. "It has been a busy month for me but we will see what we
can do," concluded Zola.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam in McCarthy warning
Rovers boss says Hammers will have to pick up striker's workload
Last updated: 1st February 2010
SSN

Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has warned West Ham United that Benni
McCarthy is unlikely to have a long-term impact at Upton Park. McCarthy is
waiting to finalise a move to the Hammers, with a work permit issue having
held up the deal over the weekend. The South African scored 18 goals in the
Premier League in his debut season at Ewood Park after arriving from Porto
in 2006, but has mustered just 19 in the subsequent two-and-a-half years.
And Allardyce believes that, while the 32-year-old will start positively for
the Hammers, his counterpart Gianfranco Zola will need to ensure someone
picks up McCarthy's workload. "McCarthy is a hugely talented player who can
play his best football in the final third," said Allardyce. "He's not
getting any younger, so when you're not getting any younger the legs are not
quite as good. "But the talent is still there, so if you can get other
players around him to do the workload then he'll get you chances and score
you goals. "He's generally the best he is when he first goes to any new
club.
"When he came to Blackburn he scored 23 goals in his first year and hasn't
quite replicated that since."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Transfer deadline day: latest
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st February 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are hoping to confirm at least two new arrivals ahead of this
afternoon's 5pm transfer deadline. Already installed at the club - despite
no official confirmation having arrived as of yet - is South African forward
Benni McCarthy, with 29-year-old Brazilian striker Ilan set to follow should
talks today prove a success. Yet the Irons continue to be linked with a
number of other players, with the strangest rumour regarding Egyptian
striker Mido. Mido, who is currently contracted to Championship club
Middlesbrough but has spent the season in the Middle East has apparently
offered to play for West Ham for a nominal fee in an attempt to prove his
value at the higest level. David Sullivan, talking yesterday said: "It would
be one of the most amazing deals of all time. He doesn't want to be known as
a 'has been' of English football, so he willing to come here to play for
just £1,000-a-week. "He is a rich boy, even though he is still only 26, and
he told us he doesn't need the money. He wants to prove something in English
football and is desperate to show people here what he can do."
Sullivan also refuted rumours that West Ham were in for Tottenham's Robbie
Keane, adding that the Irishman had priced himself out of a move. "Of
course, we'd have liked him, who wouldn't," he said. "But we simply can't
afford him; It would have worked out at £105,000-a-week for the rest of this
season, as well as a transfer fee."

Also linked with a move once again over the weekend is Alan Hutton, although
reports this morning suggest that the Scottish international is more likely
to end up at Sunderland.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker looking for wins
Midfielder happy takeover uncertainty has been concluded
Last updated: 1st February 2010
SSN

Scott Parker is hoping the end of the takeover saga at West Ham United can
lead to an upturn in the club's fortunes on the pitch. Former Birmingham
City co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan recently took control at Upton
Park after several parties had expressed an interest in a buy-out. The
boardroom uncertainty had led to suggestions that manager Gianfranco Zola
may be forced to cash in on key players in order to balance the books. But,
with Zola now trying to bring in new signings ahead of the transfer
deadline, midfield powerhouse Parker is looking to secure wins in the battle
for survival after a run of three successive draws in the Premier League.
"We need to turn the draws into wins," said Parker. "We all need to chip in.
"We've got some massive games coming up with teams around us. We're in a
relegation fight and we need to win games. "The negativity surrounding the
club over the last few months never helps. "We have two owners come in who
look like they are massive fans and really want to take the club forward,
which is pleasing."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers move for second striker
KUMB.,com
Filed: Sunday, 31st January 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United look set to wrap up a second transfer window capture with
the arrival of Brazilian striker Ilan. The 29-year-old looks set to confirm
a switch to the Premier League ahead of tomorrow's 5pm transfer deadline.
Ilan, who has spent the last four years at St Etienne, moved to France in
2004 after completing a switch to Sochaux from Campeonato Brasileiro Série A
outfit Atletico Paranaense, having previously spent time with Parana and
Brzilian giants Sau Paulo. The 6' Curitiba-born striker - full name Ilan
Araujo Dall'Igna - has never been prolific in front of goal but still
maintained a healthy goalscoring record in the French league, where he has
notched 49 goals from a total of 149 appearances for Sochaux and St Etienne.
However having fallen out of favour with Stéphanois boss Christophe Galtier
he has made just 12 appearances thus far this season and was told earlier
this month that he would be allowed to leave the club on a free transfer.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni McCarthy and Carlton Cole can provide West Ham's cutting edge
Evening Standard
01.02.10

Gianfranco Zola hopes the strike partnership of Benni McCarthy and Carlton
Cole can do for West Ham what Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole did for Manchester
United. The 32-year-old South Africa striker is on the verge of a move to
Upton Park from Blackburn, who should have left east London with more than
just the point from Saturday's goalless draw. The Irons have lacked a
cutting edge in attack, which was painfully evident again on Saturday
despite the second-half introduction of their England forward, who has just
returned from a knee injury. Zola feels veteran McCarthy - who almost joined
the Hammers from Porto five years ago - can help bring the best out of Cole,
with the 26-year-old still hoping to be part of Fabio Capello's World Cup
squad in the summer. "I think it will be a good partnership because Cole is
strong and skilful as well, so I think they will find a good combination,"
said Zola. "I think there are similarities [with Yorke and Andy Cole]."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham closing on cut-price Mido - Sullivan
ESPN Soccernet staff
February 1, 2010

West Ham's co-owner David Sullivan revealed to ESPN soccernet how he
declined to sign one top striker for £105,000-a-week, and is negotiating a
beat-the-deadline deal for another top name for... £1,000-a-week. Sullivan
openly confessed he could not afford the big salary to bring Robbie Keane to
East London from North London, but he is desperately trying to capture Mido
for one of the lowest salaries of any Premier League star. Sullivan told
Soccernet of one of the most unlikely and unusual deadline-day proposals of
all time, with his move for the former Spurs centre-forward Mido, who is
willing to return to English football for a knock down salary - perhaps the
only player in the world to negotiate his wages down to such a low level in
a bid to prove himself. "We simply can't afford Robbie Keane,'' Sullivan
said. ''Of course, we'd have liked him, who wouldn't? But it would have
worked out at £105,000-a-week for the rest of this season, as well as a
transfer fee. We simply cannot afford it. "Then we have Mido. It would be
one of the most amazing deals of all time. He doesn't want to be known as a
'has been' of English football, so he is willing to come here to play for a
nominal fee, just £1,000-a-week. "He is a rich boy, even though he is still
only 26, and he told us he doesn't need the money, but he wants to prove
something in English football. "He is a Middlesborough player who is on loan
back in his home country Egypt, but he desperate to show people here what he
can do. We are hoping to clinch this deal today."
Sullivan is also "hopeful" of concluding a deal for Brazilian striker Ilan
for a nominal fee from St Etienne and the Hammers have also finalised the
£2.2 million signing of Benni McCarthy from Blackburn after missing out on
forwards Eidur Gudjohnsen and Victor Moses in the last week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Transfer deadline day latest: Tottenham Hotspur set huge loan fee for Robbie
Keane
Feb 1 2010
Sunday Mercury

Tottenham Hotspur want a stunning £1 million loan fee for skipper Robbie
Keane - a shock deadline day target for struggling West Ham. And Spurs have
told the Hammers that they will also have to pay the Republic of Ireland
striker's £70,000-a-week wages in full for the rest of the season to have
him. Hammers supremo David Sullivan is desperate to land Keane as a trophy
capture for his club. He would prefer to have him on loan with a view to a
full-time deal, but was quoted those sky-high figures yesterday. Spurs would
be willing to let Keane go to their capital rivals - a club they do not see
eye-to-eye with on transfers - but they want a total of around £3 million
for the rental agreement. Sullivan is considering his options. He thinks
Keane could keep his team in the top flight and save them the massive cost
of relegation - and he may yet come up with the cash. The clubs have also
discussed the possibility of a full-time move or even a swap, but the loan
option is now favourite and Sullivan is going to make that final decision
today. Hammers are recruiting Brazilian striker Ilan on a free transfer from
St.Etienne and closing a deal for Benni McCarthy, but they want one more
leading forward. Spurs beat them to Eidur Gudjohnsen to add to the acrimony
between the two clubs, leaving Sullivan wanting to do Keane instead - and
having to face a major bill. The Keane option is alive and is stopping Roman
Pavlyuchenko from going out of White Hart Lane, but Spurs will call a halt
to the possible move for their captain if the Russian goes.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam: Benni won`t last long
Football.co.za

Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has warned West Ham United that Benni
McCarthy is unlikely to have a long-term impact at Upton Park. McCarthy is
waiting to finalise a move to the Hammers, with a work permit issue having
held up the deal over the weekend. The South African scored 18 goals in the
Premier League in his debut season at Ewood Park after arriving from Porto
in 2006, but has mustered just 19 in the subsequent two-and-a-half years.
And Allardyce believes that, while the 32-year-old will start positively for
the Hammers, his counterpart Gianfranco Zola will need to ensure someone
picks up McCarthy's workload. "McCarthy is a hugely talented player who can
play his best football in the final third," said Allardyce. "He's not
getting any younger, so when you're not getting any younger the legs are not
quite as good. "But the talent is still there, so if you can get other
players around him to do the workload then he'll get you chances and score
you goals. "He's generally the best he is when he first goes to any new
club.
"When he came to Blackburn he scored 23 goals in his first year and hasn't
quite replicated that since."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Acrimony with Jordan put Gold off Palace bid
Monday, February 01, 2010, 09:50
Sport Croydon

WEST Ham owner David Gold has given Crystal Palace fans a vision of what
might have been after admitting that, if it was not for the 'strong
personality' of Simon Jordan, he might have invested. Three months ago the
ex-Birmingham City owner was on the verge of buying a stake in Palace. But
last week Gold, along with business partner David Sullivan, took control of
his boyhood club West Ham United, with a 50 per cent share believed to be
worth £50m. In light of Crystal Palace's financial downturn, Gold admitted
that an uneasy relationship with Jordan prevented him, and other potential
investors, from committing to the club. "I guess from a businessman's point
of view maybe I should have waited and had discussions with Crystal Palace
now, but West Ham was always my desired club," said Gold. "There is always a
want to return to your original club and West Ham is my boyhood club, so
that was always the dream."
The owner of Ann Summers, whose head office is in Whyteleafe, said: "I was
looking at Crystal Palace, who are my local club, and the vast amount of the
people who work for me support Palace; I see scarves in all the offices, and
I have many friends who are fans. "We did have discussions about Crystal
Palace, but there has been acrimony between myself and Simon Jordan, so it
was difficult to help them. "That's not to say that Simon has not done a
fantastic job at Crystal Palace, but maybe because of his strong personality
he just couldn't encourage other investors to join him. It does make it
difficult for people."
Gold lives in a Caterham mansion, but believes it is time for fans to take
back their clubs. "Simon is a fan of Crystal Palace, but I think it is time
for someone else to take the reins and I would recommend Ron Noades," he
said. "I have to say that I do like to think that there are a number of
wealthy investors waiting in the wings for Crystal Palace.
"Ron Noades was a great chairman and did extremely well in his tenure at
Palace, but going forward I think he could well be the man for the job. "He
is a true Palace fan; it is like me going back to West Ham; because I have
love for the football club, and I think that is the way it should be. "There
is a danger that clubs are being taken over by money men who, for whatever
reason, want to invest in football, and I think it is a sad time for the
sport. Times are changing and we have to hope they are changing for the
good."

The 73-year-old businessman, who is believed to have amassed a fortune in
the region of £300m, admits he is hoping Palace recover for the sake of the
fans. "I really hope things sort themselves out at Palace because I have
nothing but praise for Neil Warnock, who I think has done a fantastic job,
and I've always had a great relationship with the fans and admire how they
always stick by their club," he added.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in loan talks for Tottenham striker Keane
01.02.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United are in talks for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane. The Daily
Mail says Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola hopes to take Keane on-loan to the
end of the season.
A swoop for Keane would provide welcome relief for Gianfranco Zola's side,
who have missed out on forwards Eidur Gudjohnsen and Victor Moses in the
last week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 1st February 2010

Cole taking positives
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole was happy to return to Boleyn Ground action in Saturday's
goalless draw with Blackburn Rovers
31.01.2010

Carlton Cole was in philosophical mood following West Ham United's goalless
Barclays Premier League draw with Blackburn Rovers on Saturday. The England
striker made his first Boleyn Ground appearance since the 5-3 victory over
Burnley on 28 November, having recovered from a knee injury that had
sidelined him for two months. Cole scored in that success, and was
disappointed not to net his eighth goal of the campaign against Sam
Allardyce's side late on. Scott Parker had done superbly to power past two
Blackburn defenders before laying the ball across the six-yard box five
minutes from time, only for Cole to pull to the near post rather than latch
on to the midfielder's low centre. The 26-year-old admitted his lack of
match sharpness had played a part in his decision to attack the near post
rather than the centre of Paul Robinson's goal, but vowed to be back to his
best soon. Regardless of his disappointment at not finding the target, Cole
was happy to see the Hammers rise up the Premier League table courtesy of
the point they gained against the Lancastrians. "We've very frustrated,"
said Cole. "There were a lot disappointed boys in the changing room after
the game, but we looked at the other results and they all went our way. We
looked at the table and we've moved up to 15th, which is quite a result
considering we felt we needed more from the game. "It didn't work out in our
favour in the end, but we felt we should have won the game. There was one
point when I think I should have scored when Scott Parker put the ball
across the goal. I pulled back for him to play it into me and he's gone
across goal and it was gaping. I felt really bad that I wasn't there. "These
are the fine lines, sometimes, between winning and not winning a game and
we're going to get it right. I'm backing us to get it right and my
decision-making will come back sooner rather than later."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni McCarthy deal done, claims West Ham manager Zola
BBC.co.uk

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola claims a deal has been finalised to bring
Benni McCarthy to Upton Park from Blackburn. Reports last week claimed the
clubs had agreed an undisclosed fee for the 32-year-old, who has started
only nine games for Rovers this season. And after seeing his side draw 0-0
with Blackburn on Saturday, Zola revealed: "I do not know the terms yet, but
they have told me the deal is done. "He should be available for the next
game (at Burnley on Saturday)."
The news will come as a relief to the Italian after seeing Tottenham
persuade Monaco striker Eidur Gudjohnsen to snub the Hammers in favour of a
move to White Hart Lane.
"Benni will be a threat in the last third. He is a player who can score
goals and he will be a very good help for us," said Zola, whose side once
again laboured up front on Saturday - even after the second-half
introduction of fit-again England striker Carlton Cole. McCarthy, expected
to cost around £2.5m, will be new West Ham owners David Sullivan and David
Gold's first signing since their takeover of the debt-ridden club earlier
this month. Sullivan has revealed the club are £110m in the red, however,
the former Birmingham co-owner has said bolstering Zola's squad is a
priority despite the club's financial woes. "We are particularly short of
strikers and they are the hardest and most difficult position to fill.
That's the short-term objective," Sullivan said. McCarthy joined Blackburn
from Porto in the summer of 2006 and has scored 52 times for the club but is
eager to boost his chances of playing for South Africa when they host the
World Cup this summer. Rumours of his exit from Ewood Park have been rife
for months, with McCarthy voicing his frustrations about a lack of
first-team opportunities. Rovers boss Sam Allardyce labelled 32-year-old
McCarthy "selfish" for missing training in an apparent effort to force the
move through. Allardyce said: "The only loyalty a player has got is to
himself. That's not just Benni, that's all players today. "It's more about a
selfish attitude that they have. If something comes their way that they
think they must have, they try their very best to go and get it."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Benni backed to bring goals
Zola believes South African can complement Cole
Last updated: 31st January 2010
SSN

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola does not feel he is taking a gamble on
prospective signing Benni McCarthy. The South African striker is expected to
tie up his switch from Blackburn on Monday and the 32-year-old will arrive
at Upton Park with the task of scoring the goals to keep the Hammers in the
Premier League. But McCarthy has hardly been in prolific form this season -
scoring just once in the league for Rovers - and question marks have been
raised over the player's fitness amidst weight problems he has had this
year. But Zola insists the former Porto front-man offers a youthful West Ham
side bags of experience and the Italian has backed him to deliver the goods
in East London. "We are already a very young team, so I think it is not
wrong that we bring in somebody with the experience, football knowledge and
also goals," he said. "Benni has got quality in the final third, which is
what I am looking for. "He has got goals in his bag and that is what I need
right now and that is what I am going to be asking him to produce for us."
Zola admits he is relishing the thought of fledging McCarthy out onto the
battlefield with fellow striker Carlton Cole, who made his second substitute
appearance since recovering from a knee injury in the goalless draw against
Blackburn on Saturday. And the Hammers boss believes the strike partnership
has the potential to be like Dwight Yorke and Andy Cole's at Manchester
United in the 1990s. "I think it will be a good partnership because Cole is
strong and skilful as well, so I think they will find a good combination,"
added Zola. "I think there are similarities [with Yorke and Andy Cole].
"Obviously you are comparing them to a very good and established couple, but
I think if they work together and help each other they can really be a big
asset for us. "It will be a big help for Carlton as well because it is going
to give him the opportunity to be more relaxed. "Also the opposition will
not only have to look after one player, they have to look after two players
and that is a big thing."
Zola added: "I have seen partnerships like that develop. "It is a kind of
understanding that you can see straight away whether it clicks or not. So,
if it really works, it's not going to be long."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers close on Brazilian
St Etienne forward heading for Upton Park
Last updated: 31st January 2010
SSN

Sky sources understand West Ham are closing in on the signing of Brazilian
striker Ilan. Hammers co-owner David Sullivan had claimed over the weekend
that West Ham were closing in on a mystery Brazilian and it appears St
Etienne's Ilan is the man in question. Ilan is out of contract in the summer
and St Etienne are believed to be willing to let him move on for a nominal
fee. West Ham have made their move for the 29-year-old as they look to
bolster their attacking options before the transfer window slams shut on
Monday. The Hammers missed out to Spurs for Eidur Gudjohnsen and they have
turned their attentions to Ilan. Ilan will have no problem gaining a work
permit as he holds an Italian passport and he is expected to fly into London
on Monday to tie up the move to Upton Park.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham bosses tell failing stars: 'Buck your ideas up'
Published 23:00 31/01/10 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

New West Ham owners David Gold and David Sullivan have told the players to
buck their ideas up. The duo have met with the players to let them know in
no uncertain terms of the need to win their relegation fight. Striker
Carlton Cole said: "Yeah, we've been spoken to and everybody's clear on
what's expected of them. "That's all we need to know for us to go out and
give 100 percent every game." Midfielder Scott Parker added: "We have two
new owners who look like not only are they massive fans, but they really
want to take the club forward, which is pleasing." Asked if the mood has
lifted in the camp since the takeover, Parker added: "Definitely. "I think
it can only be good for the team. Obviously the negativity surrounding the
club over the last few months never helps. "As a player you're always
probably the last to know but you read what you read and it isn't good, but
things have settled down and it feels a bit more stable now, so I'm sure we
can really push on. "We need to win some games now because we're in a
relegation fight."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham and Spurs in talks over Robbie Keane
Published 23:59 31/01/10 By Alan Nixon Exclusive
The Mirror

Tottenham want a stunning £1 million loan fee for skipper Robbie Keane - a
shock deadline day target for struggling West Ham. And Spurs have told the
Hammers that they will also have to pay the Republic of Ireland striker's
£70,000-a-week wages in full for the rest of the season to have him. Hammers
supremo David Sullivan is desperate to land Keane as a trophy capture for
his club. He would prefer to have him on loan with a view to a full-time
deal, but was quoted those sky-high figures yesterday. Spurs would be
willing to let Keane go to their capital rivals - a club they do not see
eye-to-eye with on transfers - but they want a total of around £3 million
for the rental agreement. Sullivan is considering his options. He thinks
Keane could keep his team in the top flight and save them the massive cost
of relegation - and he may yet come up with the cash. The clubs have also
discussed the possibility of a full-time move or even a swap, but the loan
option is now favourite and Sullivan is going to make that final decision
today. Hammers are recruiting Brazilian striker Ilan on a free transfer from
St.Etienne and closing a deal for Benni McCarthy, but they want one more
leading forward. Spurs beat them to Eidur Gudjohnsen to add to the acrimony
between the two clubs, leaving Sullivan wanting to do Keane instead - and
having to face a major bill. The Keane option is alive and is stopping Roman
Pavlyuchenko from going out of White Hart Lane, but Spurs will call a halt
to the possible move for their captain if the Russian goes.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola backs Benni McCarthy to blossom
West Ham 0 Blackburn 0
The Times
Gary Jacob at Upton Park

It was hard to believe that Gianfranco Zola and Sam Allardyce were talking
about the same player at Upton Park on Saturday. Benni McCarthy, who is on
the verge of completing a move from Blackburn Rovers to West Ham United, was
painted by Allardyce, the Blackburn manager, as a slow, ageing player, who
is overreliant on team-mates. In the eyes of Zola, however, the former Porto
forward is an imposing, experienced poacher, who will be invaluable in the
trenches of a relegation battle, while proving an ideal foil for Carlton
Cole in attack.

A solitary Barclays Premier League goal this season does not bode well, and
strips the gloss off his strike rate of nearly a goal every two games in
four years at at Ewood Park.

"The legs are not quite as good but the talent is there," Allardyce said.
"If you can get players to do the workload, he'll score you goals." It is
understood his relationship with Allardyce soured after the Blackburn
manager told the South Africa striker to lose weight last month. Blackburn's
fans will also shed no tears at his exit, having booed McCarthy during the
2-2 draw at home to Sunderland on December 28.

West Ham, one point above the bottom three, will cling to Allardyce's other
contention that McCarthy shows his best form when he first moves to a club;
the striker scored 24 goals in his first season in England, after his move
from Porto in 2006.

"He can help Cole to relax and give the opposition two forwards to think
about," Zola said.

McCarthy will be the first arrival under the new regime of David Sullivan
and David Gold, who entertained Jack Petchey, the property entrepreneur, and
Michael Tabor, the investor and former bookmaker, on Saturday. This limp and
anxious display could be enough to convince the West Ham board that they
need more than just McCarthy to guarantee the club's survival in the league
this season.

West Ham United (4-5-1): R Green 5 — J Faubert 6, J Tomkins 6, M Upson 6, J
Spector 6 — A Diamanti 4, V Behrami 5 (sub: S Parker, 70min 5), M Noble 6, R
Kovac 6 (sub: C Cole, 58 5), J Collison 4 — F Nouble 4 (sub: F Sears, 78).
Substitutes not used: M Stech, M Da Costa, H Ilunga, J Stanislas. Next:
Burnley (a).

Blackburn Rovers (4-1-4-1): P Robinson 5 — P Chimbonda 5, C Samba 7, R
Nelsen 6, G Givet 5 — S N'Zonzi 5 — E-H Diouf 5 (sub: D Hoilett, 84), B
Emerton 5 (sub: K Andrews, 58 5), M G Pedersen 7, M Olsson 5 — N Kalinic 5
(sub: J Roberts, 71). Substitutes not used: J Brown, S Reid, F Di Santo, M
Salgado. Booked: Nelsen. Next: Stoke City (a).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers are Overdrawn
The Sun

SCOTT PARKER is desperate for West Ham's players to change their draws.
Hammers have finished level in four of their last six league games. And
midfielder Parker said: "We need to turn the draws into wins. We all need to
chip in. We've got some massive games coming up with teams around us. "We're
in a relegation fight and we need to win games. The negativity surrounding
the club over the last few months never helps. "We have two owners come in
who look like they are massive fans and really want to take the club
forward, which is pleasing."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Brazilian close to joining West Ham United strike force following Blackburn
stalemate
West Ham United are closing in on Brazilian international striker Ilan and
the 29 year-old could join Benni McCarthy at the club's Chadwell Heath
training ground on Monday.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Ley
Published: 7:00AM GMT 01 Feb 2010

After failing to score for the second time in three games, the need for
attacking reinforcements was again painstakingly obvious. Carlton Cole made
a second cameo appearance but needs easing back gently so the arrival of
McCarthy will be gratefully received, as would the arrival of the Brazilian
– full name Ilan Araujo Sall'lgna. Ilan is near the end of his contract with
St-Etienne and would be subject to only a nominal fee. McCarthy is more
expensive at £2.25 million and on a 2½-year contract.

Sport on television According to his former manager, West Ham United should
enjoy the talents of McCarthy while they can. West Ham will not complain if
McCarthy supplies the goals that keep them up, but clearly there is little
love lost between Sam Allardyce and the striker.

"He is a hugely talented player," said the Blackburn manager, before
offering a warning. "I think he'll be really, really good when he comes to
the club because he generally is the best he is when he first goes to any
new club. When he came to Blackburn Rovers he scored 24 goals in his first
year and hasn't quite replicated that since."

The statistics confirm Allardyce's claim. In his first season at Celta Vigo
he scored eight league goals but managed only two in the next three seasons.
In a loan spell at Porto he got 12 in 11 games, and followed that by
repaying a permanent move with 19 goals, but added only 14 in the next two
seasons. And since he scored 24 in the 2006-07 campaign, he has managed just
28 in 2½ seasons.

Blackburn came closest to scoring here when Morten Gamst Pedersen hit the
crossbar before Mark Noble clearly handled a Gael Givet shot on the line.

All of which left new co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan wondering what
they had left themselves in for. They played Cockney gems Knees Up Mother
Brown and Any Old Iron to greet the new men in charge. And there's even a
Facebook campaign aimed at bringing back the popular girls, the
"Hammerettes". But manager Gianfranco Zola knows it will take more than a
dancing troupe to keep West Ham in the Premier League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCarthy, ILan and ?
West Ham Till I Die

Another transfer window deadline day and more keen anticipation of an
inspired deal or two out of left field. The protracted transfer of Benni
McCarthy has been finalised and it has been suggested by SSN that the
mystery Brazilian striker is free agent Ilan.

I think McCarthy is an excellent short-term signing. He will bring
experience and a cutting edge to our attack. Yes he is 32, but there is a
lot to be said for having an older head up front to combine with our younger
players. West Ham have been creating plenty of chances but not converting
them. Even yesterday, when our chances were few and far between, I reckon a
striker of McCarthy's quality would have snapped up Parker's pull back from
the by-line. It was shocking that no Hammers forward was within a mile of
that ball. When Parker got to the byline, what did they think he was going
to do with the ball? They should have been in the box, lining up to finish
it!

Ilan is a bit of an unknown quantity to most of us. He has been capped by
Brazil a few times and holds an Italian passport, so no visa issues! He has
just been released 'by mutual consent' from his contract with his French
club, after allegedly falling out with the coach. From his career stats he
does not appear to be prolific in front of goal, having scored twice in 12
games this season. And that is what slightly concerns me. French football
is not of the standard of the PL and certainly is not as fast or physically
challenging. Allied to that is the question mark over his current level of
match fitness, having only played 12 matches all season?

Still, if we do sign Ilan, then lets give him the benefit of the doubt.
Afterall, there were questions raised over Franco's prior goal scoring
record, when he joined us, and he has proven to be a successful signing, so
who knows?

Another concern about much of the Sunday transfer speculation was the
constant links to our 'old friends' at White Hart Lane! The news item that
caught my eye was the proposed loan/permanent signing of Robbie Keane. I
have no quibble with the club targeting Keane, I think that he would do very
well at Upton Park, playing alongside Cole or McCarthy. However, it was the
suggestion by some media outlets that Spurs want either Cole or Tomkins in
exchange that really caught my attention!! Sorry, but that is not a good
deal. In my book it needs to be a loan or straight cash, with no strings
attached.

There was another link with Spurs in the form of Alan Hutton. We need a
right-back and they want to loan him to a PL team to improve his match
fitness. The deal should be mutually beneficial, but this is Spurs that we
are talking about! They will probably keep us talking to 3pm on deadline
day and then agree an alternative deal with Sunderland!

Also, Hutton does have a poor recent injury record and that has to be a
consideration. Personally, I would go for Young at Villa or Ferriera at
Chelski in preference to Hutton. But we shall see what transpires?

So, no doubt we will all be keeping an close eye on the media up to 5pm
tomorrow. Lets hope that we do a bit of decent business and that it is not
a anti-climax like the last couple of transfer windows.

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 0 Blackburn 0: Benni's lost his jet heels, blasts Sam Allardyce
By Laura Williamson
Last updated at 1:08 AM on 01st February 2010
Daily Mail

Sam Allardyce fired a parting shot at Benni McCarthy ahead of the striker's
expected £2.5million move to West Ham. The Blackburn manager said McCarthy
will have to rely on his younger team-mates for support and suggested the
32-year-old could be a flash in the pan at Upton Park. Allardyce said: 'He's
not getting any younger. The legs are not quite as good but the talent is
still there so, if you can get other players around him to do the workload,
then he'll use the talents to get you chances and score you goals. 'He
generally is the best he is when he first goes to any new club. When he came
to Blackburn he scored 23 goals in his first year and hasn't quite
replicated that since.' Not surprisingly, West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola
argued McCarthy would bring some much-needed experience to his relatively
young side. He said: 'He's got quality in the last 20 metres, he's got goals
in his bag and that's what I need right now.'
West Ham's pressing need for a striker was exposed in Saturday's dour
stalemate. Frank Nouble worked tirelessly as the lone front man but was too
isolated until West Ham switched to 4-4-2 when Carlton Cole, playing just
his second match since November, came on after 57 minutes. Blackburn argued
they should have had a penalty when Mark Noble handled on the line while
substitute Jason Roberts ought to have scored when he turned James Tomkins,
but saw a tame shot saved by Robert Green. At the other end, Alessandro
Diamanti's left-foot effort was tipped over the bar by Paul Robinson.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Brazilian Striker Ilan Ready To Put Pen To Paper At West Ham United – Report
Having missed out on their primary transfer target Eidur Gudjohnsen to
Tottenham Hotspur last week, West Ham United are finally set to bolster
their attacking options by signing St Etienne striker Ilan.
Jan 31, 2010 4:53:00 PM
Goal.com

According to Sky Sports the Brazilian frontman is expected to fly to Upton
Park on Monday to finalise the deal before the January transfer window slams
shut. The Hammers' new co-owner David Sullivan eluded to the potential
signing of a "mystery Brazilian" following the club's goalless draw with
Blackburn Rovers on Saturday. It now appears the 29-year-old Ilan is the
man in question. Ilan is out of contract over the summer and it is believed
that the French strugglers are willing to let him leave for a nominal fee.
Holding an Italian passport, Ilan should have no problem gaining a work
permit.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Grays boss Dicks impressed by West Ham youngster Zola Jr
31.01.10 | tribalfootball.com

Grays Athletic boss Julian Dicks has been impressed by West Ham United loan
signing Andrea Zola. The Italian fullback is the son of Hammers manager
Gianfranco Zola. Dicks told the Daily Express: "He has a great football
brain and you can't teach that. It's in the genes. And he can get stuck in
and put himself about a bit, too. "He was in the reserves at West Ham but he
wants to play every week so he has come to us for a while and looks
impressive."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham legend Dicks delighted two Davids now in charge
31.01.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United legend Julian Dicks is delighted to see his old club in the
hands of David Gold and David Sullivan. Dicks is currently manager of Grays
Athletic. He told the Daily Express: "Sullivan and Gold are real West Ham
supporters and we know that because they have been saying it for years, not
just recently for public consumption. "What did we have when the Icelandics
were in charge? Some bloke who came in and made a lot of noise, told
everyone he was a West Ham supporter and delivered nothing but trouble. I
spent 11 years with West Ham, the best part of my life. But last season I
went back and they wouldn't even let me in. It didn't feel like my club any
more. "Yet the supporters are fantastic. They are what West Ham are really
about, and I'm sure those fans are delighted that they've got their club
back from the brink in this way. "They are not daft there. They realise
they're probably never going to win the Premier League title, but they love
a good cup run and they love the club and that is very important. It was
always a fantastic place to play, even when I was with Birmingham. And the
fans were so good to me I get goosebumps just talking about it now. "I have
to say, though, that Upton Park has lost a bit of its atmosphere, which I
guess is a sign of the times. And I don't like the idea of any move to the
Olympic stadium, either. It just doesn't feel right."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Palermo fail to convince West Ham to sell Behrami
01.02.10 | tribalfootball.com

Palermo made an approach for West Ham United midfielder Valon Behrami on
Saturday. Sicilian sources say agent Alessandro Beltrami sounded out West
Ham about the possibility of selling Behrami to the Rosanero, but received
zero encouragement. West Ham insist Behrami cannot be sold with such little
time to find a replacement for the Switzerland international.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com