Thursday, June 30

Daily WHUFC News - 30th June 2011

Dylan ready for Uzbekistan
WHUFC.com
Dylan Tombides' Australia face Uzbekistan in the FIFA U-17 World Cup round
of 16 tonight
29.06.2011

Dylan Tombides is preparing for the biggest match of his young career as
Australia take on Uzbekistan in the FIFA U-17 World Cup round of 16 this
evening. The Joeys return to action just 48 hours after their rearranged
final group-stage fixture against Denmark on Monday - a game they drew 1-1
courtesy of a dramatic last-gasp equaliser to advance to the knockout
stages.

On Wednesday, Australia will tackle their Asian Football Confederation (AFC)
rivals in the Mexican city of Torreon, and the West Ham United striker knows
it will be no easy task to reach the quarter-finals. Tombides spoke to
whufc.com exclusively from Australia's training camp ahead of the big game.

Dylan, congratulations on reaching the round of 16. You got through in
dramatic circumstances - you were down to ten men and were a goal down with
only a minute or two to go. What were your emotions when that equaliser flew
into the net?

We went 1-0 down for the second time against Denmark after our first game
was postponed due to bad weather, and to top going 1-0 down we also had a
man sent-off for a straight red card offence. That meant I had to drop back
into the midfield, and for a good 60 or 70 minutes we were on the back foot.
We only had the odd counterattack, but we managed to hold them out and then
it was the 90th minute when we got the equaliser. I couldn't believe it! I
was bent over from running all game and when the ball went in we all
suddenly had an extra gear to go and celebrate the goal as a team.

You will only have had 48 hours of rest between Denmark and Uzbekistan. Are
you confident that won't have any effect on your preparation for the game?

I don't think it will affect our preparation but it definitely affect our
bodies, because they won't have had the best recovery time for the next
match. Either way, we will be up for it and we will give it our all. The
more experienced players in the team will make sure of that!

You are through to the last 16, so how far can Australia go?

All the boys are very happy we've gotten this far and are keen to go further
to prove the people who have doubted our abilities wrong.We believe we can
go on to the quarters and maybe to semi-finals if we perform to our best.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Spurs return to High Court over Olympic Stadium verdict
Page last updated at 14:47 GMT, Wednesday, 29 June 2011 15:47 UK

Tottenham will return to the High Court to continue their fight for a
judicial review of the decision to award the Olympic Stadium to West Ham.
Last week, Judge Mr Justice Davis rejected Spurs' and Leyton Orient's
challenge for the stadium. Backing the Olympic Park Legacy Company's
decision, Judge Davis said there were no grounds for a review. But the north
London club now have the chance to make a case in an oral hearing. In a
statement, they said: "The club has today [Wednesday] applied to the High
Court to renew its application for permission to bring a claim against the
London Borough of Newham and the Olympic Park Legacy Company, the Mayor of
London and Government Ministers for judicial review of their decisions
underlying the bid process for the conversion of the Olympic Stadium after
the 2012 Games.

After Thursday's news was announced, the Olympic Park Legacy Company said:
"We are pleased with the ruling and continue to make good progress in our
negotiations with the preferred bidder in order to be in a position to agree
the final terms for the stadium's lease." Newham Council have arranged a
£40m loan to finance the move from Upton Park for West Ham, who are
promising to develop a venue capable of hosting "world-class sporting
events, including top-level football and athletics".

Spurs turned their attention to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford, east
London, after deciding their plans for a new development at Northumberland
Park - next to their existing north London White Hart Lane home - were not
economically viable. Their plan was to rebuild the stadium without the
running track and, by way of a commitment to athletics, rebuild the National
Sports Centre at Crystal Palace. West Ham were relegated from the Premier
League to the Championship last season, while Spurs had a fine season after
reaching the last eight of the Champions League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dead horse given kiss of life
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 29th June 2011
By: Staff Writer

Tottenham have vowed to continue their fight against the decision to award
the Olympic Stadium to West Ham. Last week the north Londoners saw their
application for a judicial review of the decision by the Olympic Park Legacy
Committee thrown out of court. However Tottenham refused to accept defeat,
stating on Friday that 'the club now has the option of renewing its
application at an oral hearing at the High Court and we shall give
consideration to this in the next few days'. Now having given it their due
consideration, Spurs confirmed today that they will indeed be taking their
case to the High Court. In a statement posted on tottenhamhotspur.com
tonight they said: "The club [Tottenham] has applied to the High Court to
renew its application for permission to bring a claim against the London
Borough of Newham and the Olympic Park Legacy Company, the Mayor of London
and Government Ministers for judicial review of their decisions underlying
the bid process for the conversion of the Olympic Stadium after the 2012
Games. "Under this process the club now has the opportunity to present its
case at an oral hearing at the High Court."

West Ham were confirmed as the OPLC's 'preferred bidder' back in February.
That decision was officially ratified by the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson,
and the Government at the beginning of March. That same week, Orient
Chairman Barry Hearn launched the first campaign against the decision.
However his efforts hit the buffers when the Premier League exposed the
hypocrisy of his case (Hearn claimed that a top flight team at the OS would
have been detrimental to his club's attendance figures; the League revealed
Hearn had previously given his consent to Spurs moving there). At the end of
March, Tottenham - by now openly in cahoots with Hearn - confirmed that they
would be seeking a judicial review of the OPLC decision. However last week's
ruling that upheld the OPLC's choice of preferred bidder still doesn't
appear to have dampened Daniel Levy's resolve; the case looks set to rumble
on.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Spurs return to High Court
Olympic Stadium row continues in court
Last Updated: June 29, 2011 3:38pm
SSN

Tottenham have returned to the High Court to continue their bid for a
judicial review of the decision to award the Olympic Stadium to West Ham.
Spurs are refusing to accept defeat after last week's decision by Judge Mr
Justice Davis to reject their bid and that of League One side Leyton Orient.
he North Londoners will now have the chance to make a case in an oral
hearing at the High Court. A statement on the club's official website said:
"The club has applied to the High Court to renew its application for
permission to bring a claim against the London Borough of Newham and the
Olympic Park Legacy Company, the Mayor of London and Government Ministers
for judicial review of their decisions underlying the bid process for the
conversion of the Olympic Stadiumafter the 2012 Games. "Under this process
the club now has the opportunity to present its case at an oral hearing at
the High Court." The Hammers won the backing of Olympic bosses in the battle
for the 2012 venue back in February. Olympic Park Legacy Company executives
decided their offer and intention to retain the athletics track was better
than Tottenham's rival bid.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammer blow for Stoke's Cole bid
Published: Today
The Sun

STOKE have had a £3million bid for Carlton Cole turned down by West Ham.
Potters boss Tony Pulis believes he can revive the 27-year-old striker's
career after the Hammers dropped out of the Premier League last season. The
Londoners would receive more than the initial £3m for the England
international once appearances and other incentives come into play - but
still rejected the offer. Pulis has told Birmingham to take it or leave it
after they refused his £16m bid for Scott Dann and Cameron Jerome. The Stoke
chief wants Dann to provide competition for centre-backs Robert Huth and
Ryan Shawcross and has been a long-term admirer of striker Jerome.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sammy Lee looks nailed on for Hammers
Published 22:59 29/06/11 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

Sammy Lee has been tipped to join Sam Allardyce at West Ham after leaving
Liverpool abruptly on Tuesday night. The move would see Lee reunited with
Big Sam, his former Bolton boss, at Upton Park. Kevin Keen, who briefly took
over as caretaker manager at the end of last season, has not been handed
first team duties by Allardyce. It means his first team coach's job is
vacant with Lee the prime candidate.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reject Stoke City's opening bid for Carlton Cole
Stoke are believed to have offered £4m plus add-ons
West Ham rejected in pursuit of Bothroyd and Campbell
Stuart James
guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 29 June 2011 21.40 BST

West Ham United have rejected Stoke City's opening bid for Carlton Cole and
told the Premier League club that they will need to significantly increase
their offer.
Stoke are believed to have offered in the region of £4m plus add-ons for the
England international. West Ham are stepping up their search for more
firepower after admitting defeat in their attempts to sign Jay Bothroyd, who
is on a free transfer, and the Blackpool striker DJ Campbell. Bothroyd and
Campbell have expressed a desire to play in the Premier League .

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Spurs pursue Olympic Stadium judicial review
Published 14:32 29/06/11 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

Tottenham have gone back to the High Court to continue their bid for a
judicial review of the decision to award the Olympic Stadium to West Ham,
the club today announced. Spurs are refusing to accept defeat after last
week's decision by Judge Mr Justice Davis to reject their bid and that of
Leyton Orient's. The club will now have the chance to make a case in an oral
hearing at the High Court. Tottenham said in a statement: "The club has
today applied to the High Court to renew its application for permission to
bring a claim against the London Borough of Newham and the Olympic Park
Legacy Company, the Mayor of London and Government Ministers for judicial
review of their decisions underlying the bid process for the conversion of
the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games. "Under this process the club now
has the opportunity to present its case at an oral hearing at the High
Court."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LEE SET FOR WEST HAM
WEDNESDAY, 29/06/2011
Shoot

Coach Sammy Lee is being linked with a move to West Ham after leaving
Liverpool. The Reds are refusing to talk about reports that their former
midfielder has left Anfield. Steve Clarke was brought in as No.2 last season
when Kenny Dalglish returned to the Liverpool hot-seat, although Lee still
worked as a coach. Lee, 52, has worked alongside West Ham manager Sam
Allardyce before, when he was No.2 during the gaffer's time at Bolton. Lee
also had a short spell as Bolton manager before returning to Liverpool in
2008 to work with Rafa Benitez.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with Liverpool assistant manager
9:27am Wednesday 29th June 2011
Guardian Series

West Ham are reportedly close to bringing Sammy Lee to the club with the
Liverpool assistant manager expected to quit Anfield this morning. Lee
worked with Hammers boss Sam Allardyce at Bolton and the pair could be
reunited at Upton Park. Allardyce recently appointed Neil McDonald as West
Ham's assistant manager but Lee could come in as first-team coach which is
currently held by Kevin Keen.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ambler keen in principle for Hammers fans to attend Millwall game
10:55am Wednesday 29th June 2011
By Paul Green »

LIONS chief executive Andy Ambler says he is keen in principle for visiting
fans to be able to attend The Den when Millwall host West Ham this season.
The last meeting between the two clubs at Upton Park in the League Cup two
years ago was overshadowed by several pitch invasions from West Ham
supporters, as well as a Millwall fan being stabbed outside the stadium
before kick off. Millwall were cleared of any responsibilty but West Ham
were hit by a heavy fine from the FA. The Hammers' relegation from the
Premier League has paired the two rivals together again next season with the
first game set to take place at The Den on September 17 and both clubs are
keen to avoid a repeat of what happened in August 2009. Mr Ambler attended
an initial meeting with the police last week to discuss the forthcoming
fixture and although no final decisons have been made yet because the match
could potentially be televised, the Millwall chief executive confirmed the
game would not start at 3pm. He told News Shopper: "We are waiting on the
Football League to get their pick of Sky games for the first three months of
the year later this week. "What I do know is that it will be an early
kick-off, either early on the Saturday or the Sunday. "Our position on away
fans is we want this to be a game which as many supporters can attend as
possible, but it will be a members only game for Millwall fans, as people
would expect anyway. "We will be having another meeting with the police soon
to finalise the details."

On the pitch, Millwall are edging closer to drafting in some new attackers
to replace Steve Morison and Neil Harris following their summer departures.
Darius Henderson is one player reported to be on the brink of completing a
move to The Den from Sheffield United and although he refused to be drawn on
names, Mr Ambler did admit there could be some good news on the horizon for
Lions fans. He said: "We are working hard on bringing two strikers into the
club as soon as we can."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Wednesday, June 29

Daily WHUFC News - 29th June 2011

Tombides reaches last 16
WHUFC.com
Dylan Tombides' Australia snatched a draw with Denmark to advance at the FIFA U-17 World Cup
28.06.2011

A dramatic late goal ensured West Ham United will have two representatives in the FIFA U-17 World Cup round of 16. With Blair Turgott's England already through, things were looking bleak for club-mate Dylan Tombides as his Australia side trailed 1-0 with just seconds remaining of their final group-stage fixture against Denmark.
However, the Hammers striker had other ideas, rolling a pass inside for Luke Remington to power a low left-foot shot inside the post, despite the best efforts of Danish goalkeeper Oliver Korch. The Joeys clung on for a 1-1 draw that sees them safely through to the knockout stages behind Group F winners Brazil and runners-up Ivory Coast. Tombides and his compatriots will meet Group D winners Uzbekistan in the round of 16, with the tie taking place in the Mexican city of Torreon on Wednesday.
The Joeys' final group-stage fixture had initially been held in Queretaro on Sunday, only for heavy rain at the Estadio Corregidora to force the match to be abandoned midway through the first half with the Danes leading 1-0. When the game was held for a second time on Monday, the Scandinavians again took an early lead when Rochester Sorensen bundled the ball into the net from close-range. Sorensen had two further chances to double Denmark's lead only to shoot straight at goalkeeper Paul Izzo before seeing a looping header bounce off the crossbar. Tombides was his usual busy self, leading the line with typical energy and willing, and will expect to do so again when Australia tackle the Asian Championship runners-up. Uzbekistan won through to the round of 16 by recovering from a 4-1 defeat by New Zealand to beat both the United States and Czech Republic.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boxing Day fixture change
WHUFC.com
Travelling fans should take note of two new kick-off times for the Hammers
28.06.2011

West Ham United can confirm two changes to away fixtures in the 2011/12 season. The Boxing Day match at Birmingham City on Monday 26 December will now kick off at 1pm, while the trip to Cardiff City on Saturday 3 March will get under way at 12.30pm. WHUFC.com will update all the latest fixture news as and when details are confirmed.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tennis ace has Hammers hope
WHUFC.com
West Ham United could be well represented at next summer's Paralympic Games in London
29.06.2011

One Hammers fan in particular has got a keen eye on Wimbledon this week. Andrew Lapthorne is the world No4 in wheelchair Quad Tennis singles, and will be going for gold at next year's Paralympic Games in London. Lapthorne is also the reigning Australian Open doubles champion and finished as runner-up in the French Open on Sunday - despite recent back and wrist injuries. Having returned to England, he is focusing on the British Open in Nottingham next month but is also finding time to watch Andy Murray's exploits at SW19. Lapthorne knows the Murray family well and is tipping this year to be the one that Britain finally celebrates a Wimbledon champion again. "There is a big buzz at the moment," Lapthorne said. "It is all going right for Andy. Hopefully he will make the final and then you never know what could happen. It would be great for him to get the first one out of the way and then I am sure he will never look back."

The Ruislip-based Lapthorne recalled watching the Carling Cup semi-final against Birmingham City alongside Murray while both were preparing for big Australian Open matches earlier this year. Lapthorne said: "I started watching the match in bed, I had got up especially at 4.30am but by the time it went to extra time I went to the players' lounge. Andy was there and we were watching it together. I was wearing my West Ham shirt and we started talking. "He's a fan and we were both looking at the game and trying to work out what had gone on. Carlton Cole scored a great goal and we were on our way. It didn't work out in the end but it turned out to be the perfect preparation. I was angry and it made me focus on what I had to do on court."

Lapthorne has had a stop-start time since then because of his injuries but hoped his run to the French Open final - he and partner Peter Norfolk are the world No1s in doubles - is a sign that he is over those issues. The bigger picture is preparing for next summer's sporting extravaganza and his ambition of gold medals in both the singles and doubles. "It is all about getting fit for 2012 and everything is going toward that. My results now are important but not as important as they will be next year. That is my sole goal. It is a rebuilding process now and hopefully things will keep going in the right direction."

Lapthorne has similar aspirations for West Ham United and is delighted with the arrival of Sam Allardyce and, in particular, Kevin Nolan. "He has been one of my favourite players for a few years and has always done well against us. To hear he dropped down a division to play for us was exciting and I can't wait to see him play.
"I hope West Ham are a Premier League team again in 2012 and I have two gold medals - that would be the perfect year."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
He's fat, he's round, he could be West Ham-bound
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 28th June 2011
By: Staff Writer

Liverpool's Sammy Lee is being hotly tipped to follow Sam Allardyce to West Ham. The former Reds player is understood to have resigned from his position in Kenny Dalglish's backroom team tonight (for reasons as yet unknown). And speculation is rife that Lee is set to team up with Allardyce for a second time, having become disillusioned with life at Anfield following the arrival of Steve Clarke - Gianfranco Zola's former number two at West Ham - in January. The 52-year-old former midfielder was affectionately known as 'Little Sam' during a two-year spell as assistant to Allardyce at Bolton between 2005 and 2007.

However his attempt to step into his former boss' shoes - following Allardyce's departure from Bolton in April 2007 - lasted just six months before he was fired in October of the same year, having led the Trotters to just one win from their opening 11 league fixtures. Lee returned to Liverpool in May 2008 as assistant to Rafa Benitez. He remained at the club following the return of another former Anfield favourite, Kenny Daglish, but is said to have been unhappy at effectively being replaced by Clarke.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joke City
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 28th June 2011
By: Staff Writer

Stoke have offered a paltry £3million for West Ham striker Carlton Cole. The Potters launched their bid to land the England striker last night, according to the Daily Mail, with an opening bid that falls way below West Ham evaluation of the striker. Stoke boss Tony Pulis is a keen admirer of Cole's and has been linked with a move for the striker before. However he will have to raise his bid considerably if he hopes to tempt the Hammers into parting with the 27-year-old. Elsehwere there is little of interest for Hammers fans in terms of transfer news this morning, although last night's Yorkshire Evening Post ran with a story regarding winger Max Gradel's potential move to east London. The 23-year-old Ivorian scored 23 goals for Leeds last season in the Championship.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: signings soon
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 27th June 2011
By: Staff Writer

David Gold has confirmed that he expects West Ham to annunce some further signings shortly. The 74-year-old co-chairman told his followers on Twitter that despite no news on the transfer front since the confirmation of Kevin Nolan's arrival, hard work continues behind the scenes. "Many of you are asking about signings," Gold said, "but please bear with us as we obviously can't reveal any details until a deal us virtually done. Negotiations for new signings are ongoing." With the current squad back at Chadwell Heath later this week after their summer break, new boss Sam Allardyce will be keen to boost his options. Since the end of last season West Ham have parted company with 13 first team squad members, with only two - Nolan and Abdoulaye Faye - coming the other way.

The dear departed

Kieron Dyer: end of contract
Danny Gabbidon: end of contract
Jonathan Spector: end of contract
Matthew Upson: end of contract
Lars Jacobsen: end of contract
Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson: end of contract
Victor Obinna; end of loan
Wayne Bridge: end of loan
Robbie Keane: end of loan
Thomas Hitzlsperger: invoked relegation release clause
Demba Ba: invoked relegation release clause
Radoslav Kovac: sold to FC Basel, £500k
Manuel Da Costa: sold to Locomotiv Moscow, undisclosed fee

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Inkoom talks up English move
442 Staff - Yesterday, 15:57

FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk defender Samuel Inkoom has revealed that multiple English clubs are interested in his signature, with West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur named as the front-runners. The Ghanaian international only moved to the Ukrainian club last January from Swiss champions FC Basel in a transfer that surprised many. Since trading life in the Swiss Super League for its Ukrainian equivalent, Inkoom has been forced to repeatedly reiterate his happiness at the club and reject possibilities of a move away. Speaking to MTNfootball, the 22-year-old acknowledged that two London-based clubs are interested in him, but delivered mixed messages when prompted to commit himself to a specific outcome. ''Yes it's true Tottenham and West Ham and other English sides want to sign me, but at the moment I'm a player of Dnipro and will leave my agent to sort that out for me," he said. 

Despite declaring that his agent will play a large role in deciding his next destination, Inkoom says he will make the final decision on his future once he returns to Dnipro. ''I will be going back to Ukraine and then I will decide what to do next."
Inkoom was a member of the Ghanaian squad that reached the quarter-finals of last year's World Cup. Despite not featuring heavily, Inkoom has since advanced his influence in the team and was named captain for their recent Olympic qualifier against Nigeria.

By Killian Woods

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham make offer for Leeds winger
5:16pm Tuesday 28th June 2011
Guardian Series


West Ham have reportedly made an offer for Leeds United winger Max Gradel. The Hammers are believed to head the queue of clubs, including Premiership new boys Swansea City, interested in signing the Ivory Coast international. Gradel scored 18 goals for United last season which earned him their player of the season award. The 23-year-old's contract runs out next summer and the Yorkshire club could be prepared to cash in on the attacker. West Ham recently signed Kevin Nolan from Newcastle United and are looking to strengthen their squad as they look to mount a promotion challenge in the Championship next season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham rock the Gradel as Leeds winger Max nears Upton Park switch
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 10:49 PM on 28th June 2011
Daily Mail

West Ham are closing on a deal for Leeds winger Max Gradel, 23. The Ivory Coast international scored 18 goals last season and has just one year left on his contract.
But West Ham are likely to miss out on Tranmere's Dale Jennings though with Bayern Munich lining up a fresh offer for the 19-year-old.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham and Leyton Orient must consider next move in Olympic Stadium struggle
By Paul Kelso7:15AM BST 29 Jun 2011Comment
Telegraph.co.uk

Tottenham and Leyton Orient have until 4pm on Wednesday to decide whether to appeal against last week's rejection of their attempts to block West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium, but already attention is turning to their options if the move goes ahead. Last week a judge dismissed their request for judicial review of the decision to award West Ham the stadium, and effectively warned them to think twice before appealing. Should the West Ham decision stand, Tottenham face a major challenge to rebuild relationships strained by the judicial review process. The club's decision to challenge the government and London mayor's office in court has caused major friction, with Westminster insiders describing a "trust deficit" as a result of the legal process. Tottenham's alternative stadium plans at Northumberland Park or an alternative site at Tottenham Hale will require significant public subsidy to be viable, and diplomatic bridges will need to be built to achieve that. For their part, Spurs believe that they were receiving so little support from government that they had nothing to lose from the challenge. Orient have asked the Football League to consider whether West Ham's move to the Olympic Stadium should be permitted under their rules. Any ground move has to be approved by the board.
They are currently appealing the Premier League's decision to approve the move, and the Football League may wait until after an arbitration hearing in October before declaring its position.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham being courted by Westfield as they move closer to Olympic Stadium
By Paul Kelso7:00AM BST 29 Jun 2011Comment
Telegraph.co.uk

With West Ham's move to Stratford looking increasingly likely to happen there is mounting talk in football and Olympic circles that shopping centre giant Westfield is set for an active, possibly decisive role in the club's future. Westfield already own the shopping centre on the edge of the Olympic Park and there is speculation they could eventually add the club that will be playing a few hundred yards away to their London portfolio. The company has already been heavily involved as a partner in West Ham United's stadium bid, and are considering bidding for the contract to convert the stadium, as well as being linked with a naming rights deal. It has long been suspected that the Stratford move is part of a strategy by West Ham owners David Gold and David Sullivan to sell the club on. And given Westfield's interests in the Olympic Park, and owner Frank Lowy's football links – he is chairman of the Australian FA and headed its failed 2022 World Cup bid – they make logical suitors.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tuesday, 28 June 2011
The Circling Dog
Just Like My Dreams

This social media culture is wonderful. Twitter, for instance, brings friends closer, it's immediate, settles differences and it throws new people together. It can, writes Chris Lepkowski, be amazingly funny when people start to filter home from nights out. Yet, as the disgruntled football journalist from the Birmingham Mail points out, as far as the transfer circus and the media is concerned, they're not always the easiest of bedfellows.

He cites the example of Eiji Kawashima. The Japanese goalkeeper is a friend of his. Not in reality - but he does follow him on Twitter. Of course, this isn't the real Lierse goalkeeper, but a Twitter account set-up by someone to parody the real Kawashima, who for weeks has been telling everyone he will be joining West Brom. He was adamant that his signing was imminent. The Baggies, meanwhile, denied this when first put to them. Then they just laughed. These days it simply irritates them - especially when the real Kawashima issues an ultimatum telling the Baggies to decide whether they want him or not. Apparently, Eiji, they don't.

Such is the power of social media that a ridiculous story about Peter Odemwingie failing to agree terms with Arsenal - based on two 'friends' of his - was run by a Nigerian website. Not a usual news source, notes Lepkowski, just one which anyone of any age could set up in their bedroom and portray as a reputable provider of news. Trouble is that people get sucked in. They see the reports on NewsNow and assume it might, just might, be true. Such was the power of this report that again Albion moved to issue a statement denying it all. And who can blame them, not least when a UK-based agent is also repeating the false rumour on national radio to millions of listeners. As it happens Albion and Arsenal have had no discussions over Odemwingie, let alone got to a stage where he is quibbling over personal terms. Arsenal might yet want Odemwingie. But they've done little about it so far.

Herita Ilunga a £1.5m target for Greek champions Olympiakos? No, he isn't. Nor has he been. Julien Faubert about to move to Lazio? A club official reportedly met with the Frenchman's representative yesterday but that's as far as it goes. Which is what I told a contact in the print media this morning who emailed me asking for verification. That's not to say either story won't be true one day in the future, but for now that's guesswork. Which is where a lot of this fuels social media panic, be it on Twitter or on Facebook. A couple of websites report it in Italy and then it gets picked up and reported as news by the website branch of a national radio station.

The same has happened with the Samuel Inkoom rumour that broke a few hours ago. The Ghana rightback claims West Ham have asked about his availability, and is reported to have told MTNfootball: "Yes it's true Tottenham and West Ham and other English sides want to sign me, but at the moment I'm a player of Dnipro and will leave my agent to sort that out for me." The Dnipro defender insists he remains committed to his Ukrainian side, but in the same moment adds: "I will be going back to Ukraine and then I will decide what to do next." Whatever the truth of this story- and it has already started to be picked up by some of the major media outlets- the only thing that is clear is that the player is serving his own agenda in this instance.

Self-publicists and shop-windows, the trouble these days is that people are in such a rush to break stories that diligence no longer applies, moans Lepkowski. Nobody bothers checking with clubs to see if a story is true. They might check with an agent to see if it's true - and you can count on the fingers of one foot the number of agents you can truly trust - but even then they might not bother. Social media has not so much changed the way sports journalists work, it's shredded the rule book too. The growth of Internet and, more so, Twitter and Facebook leads to frenzied excitement and fevered panic. It's also fueled incorrect assumptions about the local beat writer's job. The implication being that many are out of the loop or manipulated because they are over reliant on getting stories from the club. That's completely wide-of-the-mark, states Lepkowski, lamenting the fact he doesn't get paid for such a relaxed lifestyle. The official websites of many, if not all, clubs churn out quotes from press conferences and interviews. Not always, but probably 90 per cent of the time, it's the journalists who drive the questions which will appear on your club's official website. Furthermore, if any journalist relied on club information as a sole source for their news then they wouldn't last 10 minutes in the job. They are simply more exposed now because others are willing to run stories without any checks.

In this climate of frenzied transfer activity - still a few day BEFORE the window officially opens - it's the local media who have to mop up the mess of others, all in the name of providing accurate news. The growth of social media, the expansion of websites who claim to carry the 'latest news' - it's immediate, people demand news. Let's not forget, says Lepkowski, that newspaper journalists are still working for print publications first and foremost. Some of them will sit on information for the sake of their newspaper deadlines - hoping that the story doesn't break elsewhere.

To get exclusives on every story would take some doing given the immediacy of news services who can report something (and then forget they ever reported it) - like the BBC did when claiming Martin O'Neill was to replace Avram Grant back in January- never to mention it again. Fast forward a few months and Sky Sports had Dave Jones installed in the same job. Never wrong for long, eh... Again, a few phone calls to the right people would have provided this answer, says Lepkowski. Again, it's about sorting out the truth from the non-truths, half-truths or the not-yet-truths.

Ultimately, all a football writer can do is run stories which he knows can be stood up, by several sources. If that means knocking down a rumour which isn't true, and he knows isn't true, then he will do so. Every day if necessary. Sometimes he can slip up, but it won't be through negligence. It's how the news business is supposed to work, when you're not in the market for 'Internet hits' or 'website traffic'. Others can fly the kites and get you excited or panicked about transfers which might or might not happen. These websites and social media networks have a place in society. And many fans love the speculation during the lull which is bandied around via various branches. But they can have a negative side too.

Take the example of Carlton Cole. The toblerone-booted striker doesn't use Twitter any more and if you happened to come across some of the abuse which was directed towards him on the social network site, says Matt Diner, you would understand why. Accusations of laziness and not caring about the club were two of the less graphic statements directed at the 27-year-old, but while the likes of Manuel da Costa and Radoslav Kovac couldn't wait to leave the club, Cole actually wants to stay. He understands he may have to be sold, but has no qualms about playing Championship football and helping the east Londoners get back into the top flight. Of course, this is no revelation for those truly in the know but it is still nice to have it confirmed.

West Ham were the club who gave Cole a chance, states Diner. He was never given a real opportunity to prove himself at Chelsea and after unsuccessful loan spells at Aston Villa, Charlton and Wolves it was at the Hammers who got the best out of him. There is no doubt that Cole is a confidence player and when the boss at the time Gianfranco Zola gave him that belief he repaid him. Twelve goals in the 2008-09 season and 10 the season after showed a rapid improvement from a player who had never been able to make double figures in his professional career, but it was ability in and around the penalty area which was so valuable. Super strong in the air he gave the side a focal point, while he was almost unstoppable running at goal. "Carlton is a humble boy and sometimes he's too quiet. He just needed to realise how good he was," Zola said in September 2009. "He didn't realise what he was capable of doing. We tried to stick with him and show him what he was doing and what he was good at, looking after him and every aspect of his game, including the mental approach. He's realised he's a good player and that's made the difference."

Last season was a completely different story as Cole struggled to find any kind of form and although his power in the air could not be questioned his performances could. A lot of the blame for the Hammers' poor scoring record was attributed to the striker, but playing him as a lone front man receiving little support was down to Avram Grant. His outburst after the 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in November showed how much he cares for the club, argues Diner, while his claim that the team needed to 'change its attitude' showed his frustration at the manager's tactics. It's clear the Israeli failed to install the confidence in him that Zola could. Now, Sam Allardyce has a chance to do just that and if he manages to get near the production that Zola did, West Ham will not only have a player who would succeed in the Championship, but the Premier League as well.

It is clearly an opinion shared by Tony Pulis. According to this morning's Mail, Stoke City have made a £3million offer for much maligned United striker. The article states the former England forward is one of the club's higher earners and the club are keen to offload him but want a fee closer to £7million. Besides, Cole, 27, may even struggle to pass a medical. A quick scan of Lepkowski's cultural circus reaction reveals most West Ham fans are sweating more than... well, Carlton in a one-on-one with the goalkeeper. The indignation of those Hammers supporters who have mercilessly harangued Cole for the last few months is equalled only by the indignation of those same fans who think the opening offer is insultingly lowball for a player of his 'ability'. Meanwhile, those Stoke City fans who had been teased into expecting a £10million move for Sunderland's Asamoah Gyan are threatening to stick their manager's cap 'where the sun don't shine'.

Of course, the line between social media and traditional print journalism gets ever more blurred when the likes of David Gold set up verified Twitter accounts and directly informs his followers he expects West Ham to announce some further signings shortly. The 74-year-old co-chairman said last night that despite no news on the transfer front since the confirmation of Kevin Nolan's arrival, hard work continues behind the scenes. "Many of you are asking about signings," he tweeted, "but please bear with us as we obviously can't reveal any details until a deal us virtually done. Negotiations for new signings are ongoing."

Since the end of last season West Ham have parted company with 13 first team squad members, with only two - Nolan and Abdoulaye Faye - coming the other way. No doubt Gold only intended to assuage the fears of those fans who have seen the squad descimated by a raft of departures; hardly surprising though that the real effect was to stoke up the already feverish speculation as to who might be arriving. By this morning, the Twitterati had convinced themselves a new signing would be announced by the end of today. Craig Mackail-Smith, it is suggested, is in discussions as I type, after West Ham and Peterborough agreed a £3million deal. I strongly advise someone do their diligence before running that particular story though.

It could also be Max Gradel, according to several of the Red Tops this morning. The club are reported to be leading the chase to sign Leeds' highly-rated rated winger. Gradel took the Championship by storm last season when he netted 18 goals and was voted the club's player of the season. The talented 23-year-old is out of contract with the Yorkshire club next summer and Leeds do not want to see him walk away as a free agent. Talksport state Sam Allardyce is looking to build a team that is good enough to bounce straight back into the top-flight and feels the Ivory Coast international would be a valuable addition to his squad. Swansea have also been strongly linked with a move for Gradel following their promotion into the Premier League, but according to the radio station, West Ham now look the favourites to clinch his signature. That may be the case, but I would think it unlikely that his signature would be imminent. As far as I know an offer has been made for the player but it was quickly rejected.

Finally, having used this platform to offer a post structural discourse on the friction between social media and the written press as it pertains to the transfer circus, by the medium of a cut and paste assimilation of an online critique of social media by a member of the written press, with the intention of circulating that discussion on said social media platforms to be reassimilated by said print journalists for further regurgitation, I'm off to find out what @jacquesderrida (he is real isn't he?) has been getting up to over in the not-so-real world before this particular circling dog finally catches its tail.

Oh and please feel free to follow me... @JLMDTrilby (beware of imitations)

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boost as Spence commits future to club
By talkSPORT
Tuesday, June 28

West Ham's highly-rated defender Jordan Spence is set to sign a new three-year contract with the club on Friday. Spence, 21, broke into the first-team at the end of last season and is being tipped as the next big star to break through from the club's academy system. West Ham were determined to keep him at the club as his contract was due to expire at the end of June. With Lars Jacobsen having left the club, Sam Allardyce has a shortage of right backs and could give Spence an extended run in the side as they look to bounce straight back into the Premier League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
English eyes on Inkoom
Ghanaian defender claims Spurs and Hammers interest
Last Updated: June 28, 2011 12:20pm
SSN

Ghana international Samuel Inkoom claims Tottenham and West Ham have expressed an interest in his services. The 22-year-old defender only linked up with Ukrainian outfit Dnipro in January, completing a big-money move from FC Basel. He is, however, the centre of transfer speculation once more, with a switch to England being widely touted. Inkoom admits the option to try his luck in the Premier League or Championship is there, but claims he is fully prepared to honour his contract at Dnipro should the club be reluctant to sell. "Yes, it's true, Tottenham and West Ham and other English sides want to sign me, but at the moment I'm a player of Dnipro and will leave my agent to sort that out for me," the full-back is reported to have said by MTNfootball. "I will be going back to Ukraine and then I will decide what to do next."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sorensen weighing up options
Potters keeper hoping to stay put, but accepts he may have to move
By Richard Torgerson. Last Updated: June 28, 2011 2:26pm
SSN

Thomas Sorensen would prefer to stay at Stoke, but admits he is willing to consider offers from elsewhere. The Denmark international goalkeeper has spent the last three years with the Potters, having previously turned out for Sunderland and Aston Villa during his time in England. Unfortunately for the 35-year-old shot-stopper, he found himself benched for much of last season as Asmir Begovic forced his way to the front of the keeping queue. A frustrating spell on the sidelines has forced Sorensen to weigh up his options, with it important for him to be playing regular first-team football. He admits his preference would be to reclaim his place at the Britannia Stadium, with Stoke having the option to extend his contract for another year. Sorensen is, however, prepared to accept that the time may have come to move on, with West Ham reported to be among those willing to offer him the game time he seeks - as they prepare to part with Robert Green. "I am happy to be at Stoke and as long as we can find a good solution, I would like to stay," Sorensen told Danish newspaper B.T. "But it is always flattering to hear that other clubs are interested."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Triumph of Substance ….
June 28th, 2011 - 11:26 am by S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

So, Spurs and Leyton Orient have had their fingers well and truly burnt with their abortive attempt to seek judicial review of the decision to select West Ham's bid for the Olympic Stadium. Details of the judgement have emerged and it is damning in it's rejection of the Spurs/Orient legal arguments.

The Judge dismissed all of the substantive points as lacking substance, quibbling or stretching legal points. He condemned their case(s) as 'legal ingenuity over substance', refused leave to appeal and ordered Newham Council's costs to be paid by Spurs/Orient. The judgement gives Spurs/Orient a direction not to seek further appeal, although they can exercise their right to an oral hearing of the case. But is it worth it? The crushing nature of the judgement is totally humiliating for the Spurs-Leyton axis and leaves little scope for success. Both parties would be well advised to accept it and move on.

In an earlier blog post, I warned Spurs and Leyton Orient against seeking judicial review. Their arguments were light weight at best and, additionally, they were obviously putting themselves in opposition to a mighty coalition of governmental and non-governmental interests. Putting aside the lack of real substance in their challenge, they put themselves on a lethal collision course with an establishment determined to grab a solution to the hole that they dug for themselves over the OS's legacy and future use. Their chosen solution was to accept West Ham and Newham Council's joint bid to create a multi-sport/multi-event/ community based venue. And, to quote my former blog post, the powers to be were unlikely to look kindly upon Spurs/Orient rocking the boat at this late stage. A date in July has been set aside for an oral hearing, in case Spurs/Orient exercise the option. But there really is little point, other than continuing through stubbornness. Indeed, any further further action is likely to be seen as frivolous and could result in more humiliation and payment of costs.

This judgement is unique, in that the Spurs fans will probably be celebrating more than the Hammers supporters. The Spurs fans want to stay in N17, it is their manor and they do not want to see the club uprooted. For West Ham, the situation is different. The OS is in our home borough and, technically, represents a move back to the old County Borough of West Ham (Upton Park is just over the border in the old County Borough of East Ham!). The potential benefits are enormous, particularly in terms of vastly increased capacity, sitting at the centre of a major transport hub (i.e Stratford) and creating a genuinely multi-activity, community based facility.

Yet, there is still legitimate concern amongst the fans about the likely shortcomings of the spectator experience at the venue. Having secured their rights to the OS, the club must now actively seek solutions to this. It is no good repeating, parrot fashion, platitudes about the sight lines being no worse than at Wembley, that will not convince nor reassure. It is a matter of heritage. Generations of West Ham fans have been brought up watching football in a stadium that is in very close proximity to the pitch. That cannot be replicated at the OS, but efforts must be made to ameliorate the situation to a point where it is acceptable to supporters. The much anticipated increase in match revenue, deriving from a 60,000 seat capacity stadium, will only occur if fans actually attend matches. The club also need to be mindful of the negative atmosphere that could be created at the OS and its possible impact upon team performances.

The board must listen to the fans and do everything possible to take the action necessary to try to address their concerns. Retractable seating is a must, but research is also needed on other stadiums across the world and how they have sought to enhance the spectator experience. For instance, we could learn from the use of giant screens in the US grid iron stadia. Not only would this magnify the pitch action, but also boost advertising revenue for the club. There must be other features and technology that could also assist. The club need to do the research and feed the best of it in to the re-development costing and project plan.

The media transfer speculation is going in to overdrive at the moment. We are currently being linked with the likes of Matt Taylor, Craig Mackaill-Smith, Max Gradel and Micheal Brown. While there was a report yesterday that Carlton Cole wants to stay with the club. Whether that is a good thing or not depends on if Sam Allardyce can motivate him and get him playing his best football. He is not a prolific goal scorer at PL level, but he could increase his success rate in front of goal in the Championship. Certainly, we should reject Stoke City's derisory bid of £3m for Cole's services, for that type of fee we might just as well retain him next season.

Finally, it was interesting that Leeds Utd Manager, Simon Grayson, came out and identified West Ham as the team to beat in next season's Championship. The fact that we are, apparently, competing with Leicester City for Mackaill-Smith could be a very good indicator of the seriousness as a club to win promotion. Leicester City are likely to be serious rivals for automatic promotion and, if Sam Allardyce wants Mackaill-Smith, then David Sullivan needs to make it happen. Personally, I have some reservations as to whether Mackaill-Smith is the striker that we need, but if the club consider him to be the right choice, then they need to go out and get him and, in so doing, send a clear message of intent to the rest of the Championship.

Although the actual transfer activity does not currently match the speculation, it is clear that multiple negotiations are going on behind the scenes. David Gold has indicated as much, with his recent tweet that incoming transfer deals are forthcoming. I certainly hope that Matt Taylor and Max Gradel are two of those signings, as both players will significantly strengthen key areas of the squad that currently lack strength in depth.

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan can inspire Hammers – just like Bonzo
Sam Allardyce likens Kevin Nolan to West Ham legend Billy Bonds
By Mark Bollons June 28, 2011
GiveMeFootball.com

Sam Allardyce has backed new signing Kevin Nolan to galvanise the West Ham United squad next season after the heartbreak of relegation. The former Bolton boss has been re-united with his former Trotters' skipper after making Nolan his first signing as Hammers chief, bringing the 28-year-old to the Boleyn Ground from Newcastle for £3 million plus add-ons. A comparison to West Ham legend Billy Bonds has even been made by the old Blackburn Rovers boss, who is confident Nolan can play a crucial part in helping the club return to the Barclays Premier League. "He is a great leader on and off the field. It is very important that we get a team spirit and unity," Allardyce told the official West Ham website. He could be that [Bonds-style character], but I don't want to put too much pressure on him. He is in the prime of his career. He has chosen to pay me a really good honour. Not just that he wants to play for West Ham but that he wants to play for me again because he enjoyed his time. Hopefully we will both benefit by that."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Barry Hearn: 'We believe we have a strong case"
12:49pm Tuesday 28th June 2011
Guardian Series
Exclusive By Matt Bass »

Leyton Orient will today appeal against the decision to reject their bid for judicial review into the decision to allow West Ham United to move into the Olympic Stadium.
The club's bid was rejected last Thursday with judge Mr Justice Davis telling them they had no grounds for a review. A statement on the club's website on Friday said: "Further to the decision by the High Court to deny Leyton Orient leave to review the decisions by the OPLC (Olympic Park Legacy Company) and London Borough of Newham, the club will be seeking advice from it's solicitors as to whether it will seek an oral hearing in respect of either or both decisions. "The club continues with its Judicial Review against the Government and arbitration over the Premier League's decision to allow West Ham United to move to the Olympic Stadium without taking into consideration the adverse effect on Leyton Orient." Having consulted with their solicitors, the club have now decided to appeal the decision. Orient chairman Barry Hearn, said: "We are today lodging oral submissions." He added: "We believe we have a strong case."

The club are concerned about the implications of having the Hammers moving closer to them, fearing the loss of support at the club. Orient's Matchroom Stadium home, which seats 9,271 supporters, lies within a mile of the Olympic site, closer to the Olympic Stadium than West Ham's Boleyn Ground. The club fear the implications of suggestions the Hammers could offer free or heavily discounted tickets when they move into their new home. Hearn made it clear this was not a compensation claim, but an appeal made in order to protect the future of Leyton Orient. "We need to make it clear we are not in favour of West Ham moving into the Olympic Stadium – it's not about compensation." He added: "We are trying to stop West Ham getting the Olympic Stadium."

Orient will now submit oral evidence for their case in a bid to halt West Ham's move, with the date for such a hearing potentially coming as early as next week.
The hearing could also be held in front of a different judge. "We made it quite clear from the beginning, the move by West Ham threatens the very existence of Leyton Orient," said Hearn. "I suppose if every council in the country was able to loan their football club £40m we wouldn't have an objection." The £40m refers to a loan agreed by Newham Council to help finance West Ham's move to Stratford. And the Orient chairman was bleak in his forecast for the club if their appeal is unsuccessful. "I believe in the medium term it will eventually put Leyton Orient out of business."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Tuesday, June 28

Daily WHUFC News - 28th June 2011

Sam joins rush to sign Gradel
Published: Today
The Sun

SAM ALLARDYCE is the latest manager to join the £2million chase for Leeds'
Max Gradel. But West Ham will need to beat off a trio of top-flight clubs in
Fulham, Norwich and Swansea battling to sign the Ivory Coast winger, 23.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hitz fits Villa for free move
Published: Today
The Sun

THOMAS HITZLSPERGER could rejoin Aston Villa for nothing. The former Villa
Park midfielder, 29, had a clause in his West Ham contract that let him
leave if they were relegated. Fulham and Blackburn are also keen on him.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Instil £7 Million Price Tag on Scott Parker
By Callum D'Souza on June 26, 2011
BleacherReport.com

West Ham were the first team to endure relegation from 2010/2011, a fate
that appeared inevitable from almost day one of the thrilling campaign.
Despite this the heroic efforts of Scott Parker throughout the season of 40
appearances and seven goals, which many believe the Englishman was the
Premier League's best midfielder, was a joy to watch.

However the 30 year old was destined to depart the Hammers even if the
London club had narrowly avoided relegation. According the Daily Mail New
manager Sam Allardyce has instilled a £7 million price tag on on the former
Chelsea midfielder who is one of the most chased targets in the EPL.
Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and Aston Villa are just some of the clubs
eager to secure Parker's service despite his age.

Capped six times at national level for England, Parker possesses a dynamic,
combative midfield play which thrives on work and strength. A natural leader
and experienced head, the Englishman is an ideal signing for all clubs.

Ideally West Ham would aim to keep their fearless leader but the significant
drop in funds due to relegation ensure Parker's wage demand is to high.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Scott Parker should join Arsenal – not Spurs
London24.com
Paul Chronnell
Monday, June 27, 2011
12:12 PM

Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has told his former club to gazump rivals Spurs
and make Scott Parker their transfer priority as Arsene Wenger battles to
keep hold of his star midfielders. Wenger is facing up to finally losing his
captain, Cesc Fabregas, but is adamant that Samir Nasri will not join the
Spaniard in heading out of the Emirates. Barcelona are ready to increase
their offer for Fabregas to £31m, having had a £27m bid turned down by the
Gunners on Friday. And while Arsenal are holding out for closer to £40m, the
player has reiterated his desire to leave and the deal will happen if a
compromise can be reached. However, former Gunner Parlour, who won three
Premier League title medals in his 12 years at the club, believes that
Parker is the man Arsenal should be trying to sign, regardless of who stays
or leaves. Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp has made no secret of his desire to
sign Parker from relegated West Ham, and is the facvourite to land last
season's Football Writers' Player of the Year. But Parlour said: "Scott
Parker is going at West Ham, bring him in, he'd be excellent just in front
of the back four and there's an opportunity to get him. "They also need
somebody at the back who can play centre-half, a real stopper like a Sol
Campbell, who puts his body there and makes sure Arsenal don't concede
goals. "If they can get someone like that it would be excellent. They also
need a striker as well but they've got a decent squad and they'll have a
chance. "Every Arsenal fan out there who is a little bit worried, don't
panic just yet as there's a long way to go before the start of the season.
"I'm just hoping they can find that right player or right players to really
push them to challenge Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and
Liverpool who will be strong next year."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hines: I don't want to leave West Ham
TalkSport
By Marc Isaacs
Monday, June 27

West Ham striker Zavon Hines remains hopeful he can agree a new deal to stay
at Upton Park. Hines looked set to quit the east London club after he turned
down the first offer to renew his contract at the end of the season. The
England Under-21 forward is currently a free agent and has been strongly
linked with a move to Norwich. But as talkSPORT revealed last week, West Ham
manager Sam Allardyce is determined to keep Hines at the club and the
22-year-old striker says a deal could be finalised in the near future. Hines
said: "I don't want to leave and I am trying to agree a new deal with the
club."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham leading chase to sign Leeds ace
TalkSport
By Marc Isaacs
Monday, June 27

West Ham are leading the chase to sign Leeds' highly-rated rated winger Max
Gradel. Gradel took the Championship by storm last season when he netted 18
goals and was voted the club's player of the season. But the talented
23-year-old is out of contract with the Yorkshire club next summer and Leeds
do not want to see him walk away as a free agent. West Ham boss Sam
Allardyce is looking to build a team that is good enough to bounce straight
back into the top-flight and feels the Ivory Coast international would be a
valuable addition to his squad. Swansea have also been strongly linked with
a move for Gradel following their promotion into the Premier League, but
West Ham now look the favourites to clinch his signature.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke move for West Ham striker Cole, but £3m bid falls well short of
Hammers' valuation
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 11:23 PM on 27th June 2011
Daily Mail

Stoke have made a £3million offer for West Ham striker Carlton Cole. The
former England forward is one of the club's higher earners and they are keen
to offload him but want £7m. Cole, 27, may struggle to pass a medical,
though. Stoke manager Tony Pulis is also weighing up a £1m offer for
Preston midfielder Adam Barton. The Republic of Ireland Under 21 prospect
has also attracted interest from Liverpool.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
George Moncur - West Ham
Posted on 22 June 2011 by Joshua Modaberi
Sportsvibe.co.uk

George Moncur is a 17-year-old midfielder who has followed in the footsteps
of his father and former Hammer John Moncur. The young midfielder has
impressed in Tony Carr's Under-18 side at West Ham and has played regularly
for the reserves. Last year he was rewarded with a three-year contract by
the club. Moncur has also made a number of appearances for England
Under-18's and has put in some impressive performances for the three lions
and will hope to soon make the jump to the Under-19's in the near future.
Sportvibe caught up with Moncur to find out more about the talented young
midfielder.

Who did you support as a boy?

With my dad playing for West Ham when I was younger, they were always the
club that I supported, and have supported them all my life.

What was the first football match you attended?

I think the first ever game I went to was to see West Ham v Bradford and my
dad scored in that game as well – West Ham went on to win 5-4.

Whose name did you have on the back of your shirt?

To be fair it has always been my old man, every time when I was little and
had a shirt it was always my dads name on the back.

How old were you when you signed your first professional contract?

I joined the club when I was about 13 or 14 and signed my first professional
contract at West Ham when I was 17.

Is there a player that you style your game on? Someone that you have been
compared to?

I tend to style my game on people like (Cesc) Fabregas and Xavi. I try to
make lots of short passes and one and two touch football, but I can do the
other side and tackle as well.

What has been the proudest moment of your career?

I would have to say the proudest moment of my careers so far has been
playing for England.

And the toughest time in your career?

To be fair the toughest moment of my career to date, was probably getting
into the team when I was in my first year West Ham when I was younger. But
when I got my chance I took it and I've stayed in the team really ever
since.

Who is your closest friend in football?

My best mate is Dylan Tombides at West Ham, who is an Australian
international as well.

If you could play along side any player past or present who would it be?

I would probably have to say Paolo Di Canio for that one, he was a great
player. Actually I had better change the answer to that question and say I
would rather play with my old man.

Who is the best player that you have played alongside?

There are actually two great players that I have played alongside and they
are Jack Collison and Mark Noble both at West Ham.

Who is the best player you have come up against?

The best player I have played against would have to be Ryan Babel.

When did you realise football was going to be your career?

I didn't really have any pressure on me to become a footballer with my dad
playing professionally and I actually got into football quite late. I only
started playing when I was 10 or 11.

I then went to Tottenham for a year or two and then went to West Ham. There
was a bit of added pressure a little bit because I'm at a club where my dad
used to play, but it all worked out form there really.

How difficult is it to get yourself in the first team?

West Ham have bought youngsters through in the past, but its changing now I
think and it is obviously hard to get in the team, but everybody needs a
chance and hopefully I get my chance soon and do myself justice.

With West Ham's relegation to the Championship, do you think for a young
player life yourself it can be a bit of a blessing in disguise?

It's obviously not a good thing going down, but for youngsters like myself
and other players it's a good thing in terms of getting more regular first
team football and hopefully we get a chance to help take West Ham back into
the Premier League. I think appointing Sam Allardyce was a great decision.
He's a really good manager and he gets results and that is what you need at
the end of the day.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

I would have to say my dad, but in terms of managers, I would have to say
Tony Carr, who has done a great job with bringing lots of the youngsters
through and he knows what he is talking about

What has been your most extravagant buy as a pro footballer?

I'm really into my clothes to be honest, I like Ralph Lauren. I usually go
shopping at Selfridges in Oxford Street, Lakeside or Bluewater.

And finally what does the future hold for yourself?

Hopefully I can push on from where I am at the minute and just keep
improving and hopefully one day I can play on a regular basis for the
England first team.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Monday, June 27

Daily WHUFC News - II 27th June 2011

Ken Bainbridge 1921-2011
WHUFC.com
The man who scored the quickest-ever Boleyn Ground goal has passed away at
the age of 90
27.06.2011

Record-breaking former West Ham United winger Ken Bainbridge has passed away
at the age of 90. Barking-born Bainbridge has the distinction of scoring the
fastest goal at the Boleyn Ground, netting just eleven seconds into the
Hammers' 2-1 Division Two win over Barnsley on 29 August 1949. A winger
blessed with great pace and an eye for goal, Bainbridge was signed from
Leyton, only for his career to be delayed by the Second World War. Having
scored five times in 12 War League South matches, the wideman marked his
senior competitive debut with a goal in a 6-0 FA Cup third-round first leg
victory over Arsenal in January 1946. The No11 made his Football League bow
in a 3-1 home Division Two win over Millwall on 21 September 1946 - the
first of 80 league appearances Bainbridge recorded before leaving east
London for Reading in the summer of 1950. In all, Bainbridge netted 22 goals
in 96 War League, Football League and FA Cup appearances in claret and blue.
Former club-mate Harry Hooper remembered him fondly, saying: "Ken was a
smashing bloke and very conscientious. He gave 100 per cent every time he
played."

Following his departure from West Ham, he maintained his fine scoring record
with the Royals, who he joined in a player-exchange deal that saw Vic
Niblett move to the Boleyn Ground, scoring 35 times in just 97 appearances
between 1950 and 1953. Bainbridge later moved to Southend United, scoring 25
goals in 82 matches before joining Southern League club Chelmsford City in
June 1955. Everybody at West Ham United would like to pass on their sincere
condolences to his family.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'He knows how to win matches'
WHUFC.com
Martin Allen will have a close eye on West Ham this season for more reasons
than one
27.06.2011

Sam Allardyce will bring "team spirit, unity, organisation and leadership",
according to former Hammers midfielder Martin Allen. The Notts County
manager was unstinting in his praise for his new counterpart at West Ham
United, claiming he was just the man to get his old club promoted. "What a
great manager, a good bloke, a good person," Allen told West Ham TV. "He
knows how to win matches. He has at times been labelled unfairly as direct.
He has brought quality players into Bolton over the years and done a
terrific job. He is just what West Ham need at the moment."

Allen said he was certain the club would be celebrating next May, although
knows the Championship will be a tough challenge - as will his own campaign
with County in League One. "I think West Ham will be champions. Sam will
deal with it and put his mark right across the whole club. "The advantage
this club has got is that it has got has some fantastic young players that
love this club. Sam will give them a vision and he will let every person
that is playing know how exactly he wants to play. "Team spirit, unity,
organisation and leadership from the manager, with a strong character - that
is now what it needs with a relegated club. "These young players, I am sure
with Sam's guidance will grab it by the scruff of the neck and he will bring
in some men to join these young players to take it forward, without a shadow
of doubt."

Allen said he hoped to play a part in the development of the club's next
generation, by taking one or two promising Academy aces on loan to Meadow
Lane. "Sam used to be the manager at Notts County and I have heard he has
still got a soft spot for the club. "No doubt over the next few weeks, I am
going to be ringing up and saying 'Sam can I have some of your players,
please?' and hopefully he will be generous and kind! "Hopefully he will
trust us and me personally to look after maybe some of the younger players
here at West Ham and send them up to us for part of their grounding and
development."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Season ticket deadline nears
WHUFC.com
Fans should renew their season tickets before 5 July to make sure of their
place for next season
27.06.2011

Yet to renew your season ticket?

Fans can make sure of holding on to their seat for the 2011/12 campaign by
renewing today - with just a week to go until the 5pm deadline on 5 July
when new applicants can choose their place. Those renewing now can also get
a superb 'earlybird' saving and have peace of mind that they will definitely
be there for the big
kick-off in August.

With homegrown players at the core of Sam Allardyce's vision and some
exciting new signings on the way, you can make sure you don't miss a minute
at the Boleyn Ground. With 23 home league matches and priority booking for
cup and away matches, a season ticket is the perfect way to follow the
Hammers.
PURCHASE BEFORE 5PM ON TUESDAY 5 JULY FOR AN EARLY BIRD SAVING

A special online site has been created with all the information for anyone
wanting to renew or indeed apply. CLICK HERE
(http://www.whemail.co.uk/2011ST/index.html ) for all the latest
information, including application forms and finance offers OR CALL 0871 222
2700.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ins and outs: latest
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 26th June 2011
By: Staff Writer

It looks like being another busy week in the transfer market for Sam
Allardyce and West Ham. The new Hammers boss has been busy chasing a number
of targets over the past few days having already secured the services of
Kevin Nolan and Abdoulaye Faye. And with just 21 pros left on the books
following the latest batch of departures - including the likes of Manuel Da
Costa and Radoslav Kovac - Allardyce could be looking at several new
arrivals in the next few weeks. One player strongly linked over the weekend
was Stoke 'keeper Thomas Sorensen, who is up for grabs having lost his first
team spot. The 35-year-old Dane is entering the final year of his contract
with the Potters. Elsewhere the long-running saga with Peterborough striker
Craig Makail-Smith appears set to reach a conclusion this week with the
27-year-old likely to agree terms with his new club in the next few days.
West Ham remain favourites to clinch his signing despite interest from
Premier League new-boys Norwich City.

Other news over the weekend concerned a move for Leeds United Player of the
Year Max Gradel, who has been interesting a number of Premier League clubs.
The rumour mill has the Ivorian moving to West Ham for a fee worth in the
region of £2.5million. Meanwhile young winger James McLean - who was first
linked with a move to West Ham here on KUMB.com last week - is said to be
close to tying up a £400,000 switch from Derry City.

Finally former Portsmouth star Michael Brown has been linked with a move to
the Boleyn Ground. The 34-year-old combatative midfielder was released by
Pompey at the end of last season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hitzlsperger set to decide
German weighing up options
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated: June
27, 2011 10:43am
SSN

Thomas Hitzlsperger is set to make a decision on his future this week,
skysports.com understands. The Germany international is available on a free
transfer from West Ham United after taking advantage of a clause in his
contract allowing him to leave if they were relegated from the Premier
League. Interest has been mounting in the 29-year-old who finished the
season in excellent fashion after missing the first half of the campaign
through injury. Now the former Aston Vila man is weighing up his options,
and skysports.com understands he has fielded offers from a number of Premier
League clubs. But interest on the continent is also strong with deals in
Italy, Spain, France and his homeland Germany also on the table.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Foxes in Mackail-Smith bid
Posh striker has already turned down moves to QPR and Norwich
Last Updated: June 27, 2011 10:27am
SSN

Peterborough United's director of football Barry Fry has confirmed the club
have accepted an offer from Leicester City for Craig Mackail-Smith. The
Championship new boys are prepared to let the striker leave London Road over
the summer and there are a string of clubs chasing Mackail-Smith. Fry claims
the Scotland international has already turned down moves to Premier League
duo Norwich City and Queens Park Rangers, while West Ham United have seen an
offer rejected. Posh expect the Hammers to return with another bid, while
Fry is waiting to learn the outcome of Mackail-Smith's impending talks with
Leicester boss Sven Goran Eriksson. "We have accepted a bid from Leicester,"
said Fry in the Leicester Mercury. "Their manager Sven Goran Eriksson is out
of the country at the moment, but was due to speak to Craig over the
weekend. "I have had several conversations with West Ham, but we have turned
down their bid. I am certain they will be back. "Craig is facing a tough
decision. He turned down Norwich and he has now turned down QPR."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leeds United: West Ham United in Gradel link
By Phil Hay
Published on Monday 27 June 2011 08:40
Yorkshire Evening Post

West Ham United are being strongly linked with Max Gradel as an increasing
number of clubs monitor the winger's contractual situation at Leeds United.
Gradel is strongly rumoured to be on the radar of West Ham manager Sam
Allardyce, a week after newly-promoted Premier League side Swansea City
emerged as suitors for the Ivory Coast international. Speculation is once
again surrounding Gradel, as it did in January when Newcastle United were
credited with a close interest in him. A summer bid from the Tyneside club
is understood to be unlikely but Gradel's first full season at Elland Road
has generated a growing number of admirers.

Gradel scored 18 goals for United last term, earning him the club's player
of the year award, and Leeds manager Simon Grayson intends to keep him at
Elland Road beyond the end of the August transfer deadline. But the
23-year-old's contract runs out in June of 2012 and Leeds are not believed
to have made Gradel an offer to extend his deal. Gradel has previously
indicated his willingness to remain in West Yorkshire next season, saying:
"The opportunity this club gave me changed my career. I owe a lot of thanks
to Leeds and I want to stay. I mean that."

Grayson agreed to the sale of goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel last week,
accepting a seven-figure bid from Leicester City, but he would be more
reluctant to see Gradel depart before the Championship term begins.
Schmeichel's proposed move to Leicester remained up in the air this morning
despite a Twitter account belonging to the Dane claiming yesterday that he
was to remain at Elland Road. Leeds later announced that the account had
been hacked and the comments were not posted by Schmeichel.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive - Parlour: Parker signing could soften blow of losing Fabregas and
Nasri
By talkSPORT
Monday, June 27

Arsenal legend Ray Parlour believes signing Scott Parker could soften the
blow of losing both Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri. Both players have been
linked with moves away from the club to Barcelona and Manchester United
respectively. Now the former Gunners star has claimed the West Ham
midfielder can help Arsene Wenger's team recover from the loss and push them
on to domestic and European honours. Speaking to the Alan Brazil Sports
Breakfast show, Parlour said: "I reckon Arsenal need three players. "Scott
Parker is going at West Ham, bring him in, he'd be excellent just in front
of the back four and there's an opportunity to get him. "They also need
somebody at the back who can play centre-half, a real stopper like a Sol
Campbell, who puts his body there and makes sure Arsenal don't concede
goals. "If they can get someone like that it would be excellent. They also
need a striker as well but they've got a decent squad and they'll have a
chance. "Every Arsenal fan out there who is a little bit worried, don't
panic just yet as there's a long way to go before the start of the season.
"I'm just hoping they can find that right player or right players to really
push them to challenge Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea and
Liverpool who will be strong next year."

Parlour went on to state that it would be a disaster for Arsenal to lose
both Fabregas and Nasri this summer. He went on to say: "We're talking about
£35million for Cesc Fabregas. "Maybe they should take that and put the money
elsewhere in the squad. "I do think it's important though to keep Samir
Nasri and it would be a disaster if they lose both of them. "If you lose
Fabregas, maybe Nasri can step in and play the role that Cesc does just
behind the front two."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leicester and West Ham chasing Mackail-Smith
http://www.bournelocal.co.uk
By Alan Swann
Published on Monday 27 June 2011 10:54

Championship rivals Leicester City and West Ham have emerged as favourites
to land Posh striker Craig Mackail-Smith. Club director of football Barry
Fry has confirmed that Posh have accepted a bid for their prize asset from
Leicester and that they are also in negotiations with West Ham.
Mackail-Smith has already rejected the chance to move into the Premier
League with Norwich City and QPR. Fry also confirmed that Posh are hoping to
sign Manchester United midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe on loan for the entire
season and that an offer has been made to out-of-contract Yeovil defender
Craig Alcock. Fry said: "We have accepted a bid from Leicester. Their
manager Sven Goran Eriksson is out of the country at the moment, but was due
to speak to Craig over the weekend. "I have had several conversations with
West Ham, but we have turned down their bid. I am certain they will be back.
"Craig is facing a tough decision. He turned down Norwich and he has now
turned down QPR.
"Craig met QPR manager Neil Warnock and was impressed with him, but he
wanted assurances that Neil would still be manager at the start of the
season and didn't get them. "Ryan Tunnicliffe is a player we are interested
in and the manager is trying to secure his services for the season. "We have
also spoken to Craig Alcock. He is a player we like as he can play at
right-back, centre-back or in midfield, but he has just had an operation and
is out for four weeks. "Ideally we want three or four new players here in
time for them to fly out with the first team squad to their training camp in
Portugal next weekend."

Posh are understood to want in the region of £3 million for Mackail-Smith.
Wigan and Everton have also been linked with the 27 year-old. Tunnicliffe is
a 19 year-old central midfielder who was awarded a professional contract at
Old Trafford on his 17th birthday after graduating from United's Academy
system. He has yet to make a Football League appearance. Alcock (23) has
made over 100 appearances for Yeovil, his sole professional club.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Cole wants to stay at the club
London24
Matt Diner
Monday, June 27, 2011
10:57 AM

Carlton Cole doesn't use twitter any more and if you happened to come across
some of the abuse which was directed towards him on the social network site,
you would understand why. Accusations of laziness and not caring about the
club were two of the less graphic statements directed at the 27-year-old,
but while the likes of Manuel da Costa and Radoslav Kovac couldn't wait to
leave the club, Cole wants to stay. He understands he may have to be sold,
but has no qualms about playing Championship football and helping the east
Londoners get back into the top flight. West Ham were the club who gave him
a chance. He was never given a real opportunity to prove himself at Chelsea
and after unsuccessful loan spells at Aston Villa, Charlton and Wolves it
was at the Hammers who got the best out of him.
There is no doubt that Cole is a confidence player and when the boss at the
time Gianfranco Zola gave him that belief he repaid him.

Twelve goals in the 2008-09 season and 10 the season after showed a rapid
improvement from a player who had never been able to make double figures in
his professional career, but it was ability in and around the penalty area
which was so valuable. Super strong in the air he gave the side a focal
point, while he was almost unstoppable running at goal. "Carlton is a humble
boy and sometimes he's too quiet. He just needed to realise how good he
was," Zola said in September 2009.
"He didn't realise what he was capable of doing. We tried to stick with him
and show him what he was doing and what he was good at, looking after him
and every aspect of his game, including the mental approach. He's realised
he's a good player and that's made the difference."

Last season was a completely different story as Cole struggled to find any
kind of form and although his power in the air could not be questioned his
performances could. A lot of the blame for the Hammers' poor scoring record
was attributed to the striker, but playing him as a lone front man receiving
little support was down to Avram Grant. His outburst after the 3-0 defeat
to Liverpool in November showed how much he cares for the club, while his
claim that the team needed to 'change its attitude' showed his frustration
at the manager's tactics. It's clear the Israeli failed to install the
confidence in him that Zola could. Sam Allardyce has a chance to do just
that and if he manages to get near the production that Zola did, West Ham
will not only have a player who would succeed in the Championship, but the
Premier League as well.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 27th June 2011

Nolan has Bonzo spirit
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan could inspire West Ham the way Billy Bonds used to, says Sam
Allardyce
26.06.2011

Sam Allardyce has tipped Kevin Nolan to bring Billy Bonds-style leadership
to the Hammers cause next season. The manager was asked whether the club's
new midfield recruit could be the one to show the drive and determination
demonstrated by Bonds during his incredible Boleyn Ground career between
1967 and 1988.
Allardyce said: "He is a great leader on and off the field. It is very
important that we get a team spirit and unity. "He could be that [Bonds
style character], but I don't want to put too much pressure on him."

The manager, who helped Nolan rise to prominence during their time together
at Bolton Wanderers, said he expected the 28-year-old to be "a much better
player than one I last remember." He added: "He is in the prime of his
career. He has chosen to pay me a really good honour. Not just that he wants
to play for West Ham but that he wants to play for me again because he
enjoyed his time. Hopefully we will both benefit by that."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Duo battle for Brown
Jewell & Allardyce chasing experienced midfielder
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated: June
26, 2011 4:18pm
SSN

Skysports.com understands West Ham and Ipswich are eyeing moves for former
Portsmouth midfielder Michael Brown. Brown is available on a free transfer
after leaving Portsmouthupon the expiration of his contract at Fratton Park.
A number of clubs have expressed an interest in signing Brown, but Ipswich
and West Ham are leading the chase for his signature. Ipswich and West Ham
are keen on signing the 34-year-old as they see his experience as a key
addition to their squads next season as they look to push for promotion.
Brown is now waiting to see what offers come his way before deciding where
to continue his career.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam clings to England hopes
Boss committed to West Ham but reiterates national dream
By Jamie Casey. Last Updated: June 26, 2011 2:13pm
SSN

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce admits he has not yet let go of his ambition to
one day manage England. The Hammers believe the former Blackburn boss is the
right man to lead them back to the top flight following relegation from the
Premier League last season. And Allardyce, once considered for the England
role while impressing during his heyday at Bolton, insists he is fully
committed to West Ham's cause. However, the 56-year-old, who started his
managerial career as a player-manager with Irish side Limerick nearly 20
years ago, will not give up on his dream. "Without any dreams or goals I
would need to pack in management," Allardyce told The People.
"My job now is to re-invent West Ham in terms of stability." "It was a
pretty distant dream that I might one day be considered for the England
manager's job when I started out at Limerick, but 15 years later I went very
close. "You have to reset your goals and your dreams and my dream, first
and foremost, is to make West Ham as successful as I possibly can. Not only
by getting them promoted, but by establishing them in the Premier League.
"But if by fulfilling that dream you are brought closer to another one, then
obviously that's what you consider. In fact, it's what you do the job for.
"That's not being disloyal to any football club, it's about always having
ambition and striving to be better. If you have achieved, the club has
achieved. "You try to leave a club in a better position than when you
acquired it and I've always felt that's the one thing I've done. My job now
is to re-invent West Ham in terms of stability."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham to snatch Stoke star
Published 22:02 26/06/11 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

Stoke keeper Thomas Sorensen has been offered an escape by West Ham. Sam
Allardyce has lined up Sorensen to replace Robert Green as he looks to lead
the Hammers back into the Premier League. Sorensen, 35, is about to enter
the final year of his Stoke contract and wants to leave after losing his
spot to Asmir Begovic.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Green for go on Thomas
Published: Today
The Sun

STOKE keeper Thomas Sorensen has been offered an escape from his Potters
nightmare by West Ham. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has lined up veteran Dane
Sorensen, 35, to replace error-prone Robert Green as he looks to lead his
new side back into the Premier League. Sorensen said: "I find it of the
utmost importance to get more minutes of playing time next season."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Promotion Or Bust? – The West Ham Situation
26 JUNE 2011 BY ESSEXEAGLE22
FootballBlog.uk

Heartbroken diehards at the DW witnessed a painful end for their ailing
football club in May. The end of an era with Premier League life about to be
replaced by Championship slogging, the finale of a demoralising season under
the guidance of Avram Grant and the end of many players' futures at Upton
Park. Yet they remained unaware that their suffrage may now be confined to
the past.

The writing had been on the wall for far too long; their proverbial bubbles
had long since burst. A miserable season was finally compounded by a
goalkeeping error as jubilant opposition celebrated amidst scenes of sheer
despair in the away fans section. Even rivals Millwall stole in on the act,
taunting via an aircraft way above the ground. It seemed as though everybody
was laughing at West Ham.

But for how much longer?

Almost immediately after Avram Grant's duties had been relieved, the
negativity seemed to drain away. Regardless of a meaningless 3-0 defeat at
home to Sunderland under Kevin Keen, you felt that in an easier league, the
Hammers may start to enjoy winning games again.

Saddled with £100 million worth of debt which almost goes unnoticed at
times, the owners seem to be asserting their own emphasis on the club,
running it their way, as if relegation is no setback.

Not that that's bad for the club; big money has already been spent in terms
of wages for new boss Sam Allardyce and centre back Abdoulaye Faye and,
rather more obviously, £4 million on Kevin Nolan.

In the process of a long term vision for the club, the men (and woman) with
the money seem to know what they're doing. The club was in a state when they
bought it and now, as fans themselves, they're trying to revive a fallen
giant.

Consisting of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karen Brady, the key aim was to
be better organised off of the pitch. The previous regime under Icelandic
Eggert Magnusson took on too much in the hope of short term success and
ultimately couldn't finance a side made up of many players of inadequate
standard to play in the Premier League.

Kieron Dyer, Robert Kovac and Luis Boa Morte were of those inherited by the
team of 3, some would say they'd struggle to gain a starting berth in a
Championship club's line up!

By throwing money at the club sharpish in Ilan and Benni McCarthy, the aim
of staying up in 2010 was reached. The same technique was trialled again;
Thomas Hitzlsperger, Demba Ba and Frederic Piquionne all came in to try and
maintain their status in the Premier League.

It failed yes, but with owners willing to invest and go down with a fight in
tough circumstances you have to hand it to them.

And now they're doing it again!

However, these guys are football people and have made some shrewd moves.
Ignorant of the fact that West Ham are now a Championship club, the team
have managed to lure big names in such as Allardyce and Nolan as the
reputation of the club still remains high.

The mood has changed down at the Boleyn. Positivity reigns supreme despite
the miserable viewing of a fixture card which omits such buoyant away days
like The Emirates or Old Trafford in favour of The Keepmoat Stadium or
London Road.

The winning feeling may creep up on disillusioned Hammers with greater
consistency this season and by following the pattern taken by Newcastle
United, under an astute manager West Ham may find themselves in a pretty
position in two years time.

However, as firm favourites to go straight back up, the pressure may set in
slightly more than one may expect (take Middlesbrough last season for
example).

They will be the scalp of the division; teams will up their game at Upton
Park and for a team with youngsters like Freddie Sears, Jack Collison, James
Tomkins and Junior Stanislas, the expectancy of 35,000 may be too much. They
weren't expected to win last year, now they have to win every game.

If not the situation may change dramatically. Under a tighter budget, the
parachute payments will not distribute the costs for long. Spending to make
an immediate return may be the correct decision in the short term as West
Ham aim to be established once again in the Premier League before their
planned move to Stratford, yet the strategy is easier said than done.

Southampton, Leeds and Charlton all had the same plan and all found
themselves squat in League 1. Should West Ham fall at the first hurdle, a
downhill spiral of similar proportions may await.

On the other hand, the owners and fans are passionate and control of
finances will not be compromised. The club remains large in reputation which
will no doubt lure in some talented players and under Big Sam's control I
feel that they will do well.

The side is slowly imploding; Demba Ba, Victor Obinna and Manuel da Costa
have all departed. In all likelihood Scott Parker, Robert Green and Carlton
Cole will exit in turn. Yet a strong nucleus of passionate, youthful players
remains and under expert guidance from manager Allardyce and captain Nolan,
sensible punters are backing the Hammers to bounce back.

A lot of transfer activity has still to occur – rumours today of Craig
Mackail-Smith joining the club are rife, and with the sort of contacts
Allardyce has, like Nolan, who are willing to play at this level, only a
Millwall fan would put money against them

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers make an official 400k bid for James McClean
http://theboleyninheritance.wordpress.com/

West Ham United have made an official 400k bid for Derry City midfielder
James McClean, 22yr old McClean is said to be "an exciting prospect for the
future" and his wages will rise to 10k a week (a massive pay rise for his
standards) I suppose you cant go wrong for 400 grand but I don't know
anything about this fella. Not confirmed by either clubs mind you….

"I've heard stories about scouts watching me from West Ham, Reading and
Burnley among others, but I've heard nothing. I've read my name associated
with some of those clubs on the internet, but I've been told nothing and, as
I've said, until I do, I will continue trying to improve".

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com