Daily WHUFC News

Daily WHUFC News - 28th January 2012

2012-01-28T08:52:00.001Z

Herita departs
WHUFC.com
Herita Ilunga has left West Ham United by mutual agreement after three years
at the club

West Ham United have mutually agreed with Herita Ilunga to terminate his
contract with immediate effect. The defender moved to the Boleyn Ground on
an initial season-long loan move on 3 September 2008, before making the
switch permanent in the summer of 2009 for a fee of £3m. He made 73
appearances for the club in total, scoring three goals. The club would like
to thank Herita for his service and wish him well for the future.

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Big Sam loving life
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has spoken about how and his players have settled in to life
at West Ham United
27.01.2012

Big Sam is understandably pleased about how well his first seven months in
the job as West Ham United manger have gone. With his side sitting top of
the npower Championship for the first time this season and a three-point gap
to second-placed Southampton ahead of the visit to Ipswich Town on Tuesday,
fortunes on the pitch are certainly looking good. It is not just the results
and the league table that are pleasing the boss, however, as he feels his
team have been exceptional in the way they have developed a strong bond away
from the Boleyn Ground this season.

"As I have got to know the players and build the club within the football
fraternity, they have got more focused and ever more driven," Big Sam said.
"I think the team spirit among the players has got better. "They seem to be
more united among themselves and that makes my job a little bit more
enjoyable every time I come in."

Taking over a club with a following as big as West Ham's is no easy task,
particularly as the Hammers had just completed a difficult season that ended
in relegation from the Barclays Premier League. After dusting down and
regrouping, Big Sam has instilled a steely determination in his squad to
ensure that they are focused on just one thing - promotion back to the top
tier. "The pressures are no easier than I expected. The fact we are expected
to do what we are doing and be where we are, there is no real praise coming
from outside because that is what we are expected to be doing. "We are
working very hard for the ultimate goal and it is just a case of looking,
listening and making sure everyone stays focused"

The first few weeks in his new role were certainly not plain sailing for Big
Sam as he had to oversee a huge turnaround in playing staff. Several
high-profile players chose to leave the club following relegation to the
npower Championship and their places in the dressing room had to be filled
with new blood. "The start of the season was extremely difficult, the start
of the job was extremely difficult but doing everything as quickly as we
possibly could to get the squad together meant that we were able to get
results quicker than perhaps might have been expected from me. The players
have bonded very well and have grown as the season has gone on."

Due to the location of his new employers, Big Sam has had to quickly adjust
to life living in the capital.but just like his players this season, he has
taken to his new surroundings well. "I am really enjoying life in London so
far. One it is because I'm managing West Ham, two because we are winning and
three because I like where I live.'

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U18s ready for Arsenal test
WHUFC.com
West Ham United welcome the Gunners to Little Heath in their latest FA
Premier Academy League fixture
27.01.2012

West Ham United welcome Arsenal to Little Heath in their latest FA Premier
Academy League fixture on Saturday, with kick-off at 11am. The Hammers will
be eager to return to winning ways after seeing their perfect start to 2012
ended by a 2-1 defeat at Crystal Palace last weekend. Nick Haycock's side
had begun the New Year by chalking up three consecutive wins, scoring league
victories at Chelsea (3-2) and at home to Norwich City (6-1) and an FA Youth
Cup fourth-round success against Brighton and Hove Albion (4-1) at the
Boleyn Ground. The Under-18s will be eager to shine with an FA Youth Cup
fifth-round trip to Chelsea to look forward to on Wednesday 15 February and
Haycock is expecting a big performance from his players. "The mood in the
camp is good," he said. "We play Arsenal on Saturday, Southampton the week
after and then it's Chelsea in the Youth Cup so there' s a lot to play for.
We're always looking for improved, consistent performances from the lads
that make the starting XI. It'll be a tough game against Arsenal, who are in
a good vein of form and are unbeaten this year. With the money they invest
they have they are always a strong side to face."

While the likes of Dan Potts and Rob Hall will miss the game to prepare for
Tuesday's npower Championship fixture at Ipswich Town, Haycock still has a
host of promising players to call upon this weekend. Among those to have
caught the eye in recent weeks has been Pelly Ruddock - a powerful presence
in the heart of the midfield. Haycock has been pleased with the impact made
by the teenager since his arrival from non-league football late last year.
While Ruddock has impressed, the U18s coach expects every one of his players
to perform against the Gunners. "Pelly Ruddock has been brought in from
Boreham Wood. The attitude and desire he has shown in the game so far have
been testament to Boreham Wood and the level that he's come from. We've had
him in and around the development squad with Ian Hendon and when he's
performed for the youth team he's always been one of the strongest
performers in there. "But without bringing out individuals, aside from a
poor first half against Crystal Palace the games since the new year, the
consistency of the players has been pleasing, hence the results and we're
pleased with Dan Potts and Rob Hall's progress in and around the first
team."

Saturday's fixture will kick-off at Little Heath at 11am. Admission and
parking are both free.

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Positive Guy
WHUFC.com
Guy Demel wants to make up for lost time after making his comeback from six
weeks on the sidelines
27.01.2012

Guy Demel has set his sights on making a first-team comeback after returning
to action in Tuesday's 1-1 Development Squad draw with Gillingham. The Ivory
Coast right-back looked strong and fit on his return from six weeks out with
a thigh injury suffered in the npower Championship defeat at Reading on 10
December. Having successfully come through a 45-minute run out at the Boleyn
Ground, the 30-year-old is targeting a place in Sam Allardyce's starting XI
before too long. "Of course it's a pleasure to be back and to play with the
boys in a friendly game and to be on the pitch," he told West Ham TV. I'm a
football player and my place is on the field, so of course I am happy to
enjoy football again and I hope it will be for quite long now. "It was good.
My team-mates helped me, but I got a good feeling and a good sensation. We
have our next game on Saturday, a friendly game, and I hope I will play
longer then. We will move forward step-by-step and keep going and hopefully
start playing for the first team. "It's hard for me but it's even worse for
the manager who just brought me here and needs every player and I couldn't
play my part. I know the situation for me and the rest of the team and the
manager and that's why I hope I will be back soon."

An added incentive to get fully fit for Demel is the opportunity to play his
part in winning promotion in his first season with the Hammers. While the
No20 has made just two appearances so far, he still believes he can get
involved in the club's quest to win the npower Championship title. "I think
this season could be something amazing and something historic - to be
promoted at the end of the season. I want to be a part of that. The boys are
really nice to me, but if you don't play you don't feel it. I have to help
my team-mates and be next to them. My place is on the field. "I don't want
to rush. I think I need these friendly games for my condition and also for
my body. When you get injured often in the same season you start to think
about it. These games are really important for me. I hope I will start
playing with the team in two weeks' time."

Demel's thigh injury ruled him out of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, which
is currently being contested by the continent's 16 best teams in Equatorial
Guinea and Gabon. Ivory Coast made a winning start by defeating Sudan 1-0 on
Sunday and the right-back is backing his fellow countrymen to win the trophy
for the second time in their history. "I watched the match of course and I'm
really happy for them. I'm speaking to them every day but I think, right
now, my place is here in West Ham.
"I hope that we're going to win that competition and, if I'm doing well
here, I will be back in the national team so I'm not worried about that."

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Player Awards launched
WHUFC.com
The 2011/12 West Ham United Player Awards have been officially launched
26.01.2012

The star-studded 2011/12 West Ham United Player Awards in aid of the Academy
have been officially launched. The Hammer of the Year will be crowned to
climax an eagerly-anticipated evening of entertainment at the London Hilton
on Park Lane on Monday 30 April 2012. The prestigious event, which will see
ten awards presented to the club's brightest current and upcoming stars,
will be attended by the first-team squad, coaching staff and a host of
on-screen stars. Hosted by lifelong West Ham fan Ben Shephard and with 1000
guests in attendance, the event presents the perfect opportunity to
entertain in style and showcase your company. Tables for ten are available
from just £2,500 plus VAT or individual places are available for £275 plus
VAT per person. Click here for more information. In addition to a silent
auction, there will also be a live auction in aid of The Academy, with a
host of once-in-a-lifetime lots up for grabs. Guests can bid for a place in
the 2012/13 team photograph, the chance to be Chairman for the Day or
Assistant Manager for the Day or have a kick-around with your friends on the
Boleyn Ground pitch.

There is also opportunity to visit the Macron HQ in Italy and become the
first supporter to wear the 2012/13 replica kit or to play a round of golf
with Joint Chairman David Gold. If you or your company would like to go that
extra mile and sponsor one of the nine awards being presented on the night,
then a number of opportunities are still available. If you would like to
present the award for the Academy Player of the Year, Goal of the Season,
Best Team Performance, Save of the Season or the Signing of the Season, then
sponsorship is still available for as little as £5,000 plus VAT. More
exclusive silent auction lots are set to be announced between now and the
big night, so book your table now and make sure you and your guests do not
miss out on attending one of the events of the year.

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Julien feeling good
WHUFC.com
Julien Faubert is enjoying a successful season at the Boleyn Ground
28.01.2012

Julien Faubert has been through his fair share of ups and downs since
arriving at West Ham United, but he now he firmly believes that both he and
the club are in the ascent once more. Faubert's has experienced a top-ten
finish in the Premier League, a long-term injury lay off, a loan move to
Real Madrid and relegation to the npower Championship during his five years
at the club since arriving from FC Girondins de Bordeaux. Now the France
international is happy to be playing and having some consistency both on the
pitch and off it under the tutorship of Sam Allardyce. "I'm happy and my
confidence is coming back as I'm playing a lot of games," Faubert said. "I
like the manager, the assistants and the atmosphere inside the club now. It
is different now and is better than last season. "There is more respect,
more work and that is why things are going well. We are all pulling in the
same way and I feel very good this season."

With West Ham having no game this weekend, the break from playing gives
Faubert and his team-mates the chance to put in extra preparation ahead of
the tricky-looking trip to Ipswich Town on Tuesday night. The Hammers will
be hoping to further cement their position at the top of the table with a
win, although Faubert knows that being on top of the pile may bring its own
challenges. "We are top of the table and we are winning games. We don't
score too many goals but I think we are solid at the back. Southampton have
made a mistake and now we are first on our own. It is in our hands now if we
keep going like this; winning games away and being strong at home.

"We're pleased we're up there. Even from the start of the season everyone
wanted to beat us because we came from the Premier League and have Premier
League players. "Every game the other team seem to play the game of their
lives against us but really it is just about us. We can have pressure but we
are professional and we have to deal with it. It is good for us and good for
the club but it is not the end of the season so we can't celebrate anything
and we need to keep working hard."
The right-sided midfielder, who is also equally as comfortable at
right-back, has played in 24 of West Ham's 27 Championship games this season
and is flourishing under Big Sam. After not featuring as much last season,
Faubert is a big fan of the new mangers' straight-talking approach.

"It's different because I played one full season with Zola that was good but
this is one of my best. I play right-midfield or right-back but I don't mind
as I can play both positions. I'm happy to play because the atmosphere is
really good and the way we play is proper football so it is one of my best
seasons. "I am happy here now so it is different to last season and my
mentality is different because I think I had a good talk with the manger. He
is a straight-talking guy and so am I and we talked man-to-man so it is
good."

Faubert's determination and effort have won him many admirers among the
Boleyn crowd this season - any strong tackle or darting run is often greeted
by a chorus of 'Julien' - and Faubert was quick to praise the support of the
Hammers faithful. "It is good for me to have the fans' backing because I
play for myself but also for the fans as well because they are part of the
club. We have to give our best for them as they have paid for their ticket.
We are in the Championship now but they have stayed with us and are behind
us and push us on. "Sometimes I hear them singing my name but you can't do
anything about it on the pitch. It helps me to go forward, push and win the
battle. It is good for my confidence."

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A poem for Dylan
WHUFC.com
Poet Gary Steer has written a poem wishing Dylan Tombides well
28.01.2012

West Ham United fan and poet Gary Steer has written a poem to wish Academy
striker Dylan Tombides well as battles back from serious illness. Gary spent
time in hospital when he was younger and knows what a tough experience it
can be so he felt compelled to write this poem to show that he, like
everyone else at the club, is right behind the 17-year-old, who is having
treatment for testicular cancer. Dylan, who is currently recovering is
hospital after surgery to remove his Lymph nodes from his abdomen, recently
thanked West Ham United fans for their support after receiving over 400
messages from fans wishing him well. The first-team squad also showed that
they were thinking of Dylan at last Saturday's match with Nottingham Forest
by wearing special T-shirts during the warm up Captain Kevin Nolan said:
"We all want to show our support for Dylan - he and his family are going
through what must be a difficult time, but he is a strong lad and character
and we know that he can get through all of this."

Get well soon Dylan by Gary Steer

Everyone's behind you
Everyone in sport
Wishing you well
You have so much support

Our family club
Will help you through
So you're ready to return
To claret and blue

You will recover
Although it may hurt
We know you'll be back
in your Hammers shirt

We look forward to your return,
Hopefully not too long
Get well soon mate
Stay strong!

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So long, Herita
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Herita Ilunga has left West Ham United 'by mutual consent'. The Congolese
left-back, who joined West Ham at the beginning of the 2008/09 has been
released by the club having made a total of 73 appearances for the club.
KUMB.com exclusively revealed last September how Sam Allardyce was keen to
offload the inconsistent defender who was initially signed on a season-long
loan from French club Toulouse before signing a permanent contract the
following summer. Wishing Hammers fans well for the future, Ilunga -
speaking via his Twitter account - said: "Just to say thanks to all West Ham
fans, you've been so great with me. "We'll support the Hammers together in
the Premier League next year." Ilunga - who was contracted to West Ham until
the summer of 2013 - spent three months on loan at Championship strugglers
Doncaster Rovers earlier this season before returning to West Ham at the
beginning of this month.

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Fill her up
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 27th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's average home gate is the eleventh largest in the country
so far this season, according to latest figures. Despite playing in the
nation's second flight this term having been relegated last year, Sam
Allardyce's side have managed to pack more supporters into the Boleyn Ground
on a weekly basis - some 30,029 - than half of the clubs in the Premier
League. Additionally, the Hammers have the highest average attendance in the
nPower Championship - some 4,000 more than their nearest rivals Derby County
- and the highest average fill rate (84.2%); the 14th highest in the
country.

All figures include the latest round of fixtures (to 25th January):

Overall - top twenty average gates
(Premier League unless otherwise stated)

1. Manchester Utd 75,451
2. Arsenal 59,972
3. Newcastle Utd 48,957
4. Manchester City 47,050
5. Liverpool 44,842
6. Chelsea 41,638
7. Sunderland 38,655
8. Tottenham 36,088
9. Aston Villa 34,396
10. Everton 33,321
11. West Ham Utd (Ch) 30,029
12. Stoke City 27,189
13. Norwich 26,441
14. Derby County (Ch) 25,989
15. Southampton (Ch) 25,734
16. Fulham 25,349
17. West Bromwich Albion 24,583
18. Leeds Utd (Ch) 23,665
19. Leicester City (Ch) 23,513
20. Bolton Wanderers 23,464

Championship - top five average gates

1. West Ham Utd 30,029
2. Derby County 25,989
3. Southampton 25,734
4. Leeds Utd 23,665
5. Leicester City 23,513

Championship - top five fill rate

1. West Ham Utd 84.2%
2. Brighton & Hove Albion 83.7%
3. Cardiff City 82.9%
4. Southampton 78.9%
5. Blackpool 77.5%

Premier League - top five average gates

1. Manchester Utd 75,451
2. Arsenal 59,972
3. Newcastle Utd 48,957
4. Manchester City 47,050
5. Liverpool 44,842

Premier League - top five fill rate

1. Norwich City 100%
2. Manchester Utd 99.5%
3. Tottenham 99.3%
4. Arsenal 99.2%
5. Chelsea 99.0%

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Jelavic sits out Hibs clash
In-demand Gers striker misses weekend fixture
Last Updated: January 27, 2012 4:05pm
SSN

Rangers manager Ally McCoist has confirmed star striker Nikica Jelavic will
miss Saturday's SPL clash with Hibernian. Jelavic, who has been the subject
of intense transfer speculation during the transfer window, is missing due
to illness. West Ham had a bid rejected for the Croatian ace this week and
McCoist insists his absence has nothing to do with a possible exit. The
Ibrox tactician insists it is factually correct Jelavic has been checked out
by a doctor and will play no part due to reasons stated.

Illness

"I just spoke to the doctor and he won't be available (against Hibs),"
confirmed McCoist. "He has a bug, a bit of sickness. The doctor went to see
him on Wednesday and he wasn't well, and went to see him again this morning.
"I believe the family has had it as well and one or two of our younger
players went down with it. "He won't play for that reason." On speculation
over Jelavic's future, McCoist added: "I believe there was a bid from West
Ham on Wednesday that was rejected. "But I can absolutely assure you that
the doctor has been to see him and he is not well enough to play and that's
a fact."

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Karren Brady's football diary
KARREN BRADY - First lady of football
Published: Today
The Sun

SAT JAN 21
WHAT a day! West Ham went top thanks to another home win and our manager Sam
Allardyce must take a lot of the credit, along with the players of course.
Sam has brought a real sense of determination and organisation to the club.
All the players know what their jobs are and all of them are doing it, even
though Sam is always striving for better. James Tomkins has signed a new
long-term deal, although you wouldn't know it according to some papers who
said he was leaving. He is a talented and loyal young man and I'm delighted.

SUN JAN 22

NOT so Super Mario Balotelli decided to use Scott Parker's head as practice
for his new job as a grape treader. OK, maybe not, but you know what I mean.
What exactly was bonkers Balotelli up to this time? And is this why they
call it Madchester? Scott Parker is a fine footballer and a terrific person.
His tackle at the Etihad was perfectly fair and then Balotelli reacted like
an idiot. Mind you, anyone who lets off fireworks in his own house for fun
must be short of a roman candle or two. I feel a lengthy ban is coming.

MON JAN 23

FOOTBALL and football fans never cease to amaze me. Southampton lost at home
in a shock result against Leicester City and got booed off the pitch. This
is the same Saints side who are second in the league and just went on a
lengthy unbeaten run, er, at home. I know fans have to pay a lot more for
watching their favourite team these days but there are two sides on the
pitch both wanting to beat each other and you cannot win every game.
Southampton have enjoyed a remarkable season so far with automatic promotion
a real possibility and yet by the reaction of some of their supporters
following that defeat, you wouldn't know it.

TUES JAN 24

CARDIFF CITY have made the Carling Cup final following a pulsating penalty
shootout triumph over Crystal Palace I know the League Cup has got its
detractors, especially when top Premier League sides put out their reserves,
but the reaction of the Bluebirds fans and players said it all. The Cardiff
keeper would have given Usain Bolt a run for his money after the final
penalty as he ran around the stadium like Forrest Gump at full pelt. That
kind of passion is exactly what you want to see and I am sure all Cardiff
fans are already checking out the train times for Wembley.

WED JAN 25

AT the National TV Awards tonight with Nick Hewer as The Apprentice was
nominated in the category of best reality programme. The walk down the red
carpet took nearly an hour as I was stopped to be asked an array of
different questions. Are you pulling out of bidding for the Olympic Stadium?
Do I prefer EastEnders or Corrie? Who is going to win the league? What's
your best beauty secret? Spotted Thierry Henry looking slightly
uncomfortable. Sadly we lost out to I'm a Celebrity, Get me out of here! Oh
well, at least we weren't beaten by Come Dine With Me!

THURS JAN 26

BACK to the day job and the transfer market has been pretty stagnant this
January. Trust me, here at Upton Park, it's not for trying. We have made
several offers for players but the valuations have been way too high. I
think the new financial fair play system which comes into effect next season
has a lot to do with what is going on now. It is designed to stop clubs
going horrendously into debt and I can understand that logic. But if a
multi-millionaire chicken farmer or wealthy banker wants to plough their
money into a football club, who is to stop them?

FRI JAN 27

REFS' chief Mike Riley is set to impose a get-tough policy on two-footed
challenges with players handed an instant red card if they commit such a
foul. There have been several instances lately of players diving in with two
feet and not even getting booked, with the usual defence that contact had
been made first with the ball.
Anything which helps to protect players from serious injury must be welcomed
but refs should not be pilloried if they simply don't see an incident — like
Howard Webb in the Mario Balotelli incident.

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EXCLUSIVE: Allardyce on the Rhodes again
Published 22:29 26/01/12 By Alan Nixon
The Mirror

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce made a new £3.25million bid for Huddersfield
hot-shot Jordan Rhodes as his striker search went frantic. Allardyce went in
again for Rhodes, the country's top marksman, after failing in an attempt to
land Nikica Jelavic from Rangers. Rhodes has been on the Hammers' radar for
weeks and this latest offer is the biggest guaranteed amount the
Championship promotion chasers have tabled after other installment-based
deals. Allardyce is getting desperate after Rangers said 'no' to a £5.5m
swap offer for Jelavic that included out-of-favour Frederic Piquionne.

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Ernie Gregory: Footballer who served West Ham for half a century
IVAN PONTING SATURDAY 28 JANUARY 2012
Latest in Obituaries
The Independent

There can hardly be any footballer, from any era, who gave more loyal
service to one club than did Ernie Gregory to West Ham United. As a big,
dominant, charismatic goalkeeper he was a linchpin of the Upton Park side
for a dozen seasons in the middle years of the 20th century, a reassuring
and often inspirational influence as the Hammers won the Second Division
title in 1958.

Later he served West Ham as a coach, offering sage guidance to fine keepers
such as Phil Parkes and Mervyn Day, and even after his 1987 retirement
brought an end to his remarkable 51-year official tenure at the club, he was
a regular visitor at the Chadwell Heath training ground, keeping an eye on
the new generation of young keepers and delivering typically shrewd scouting
assessments.

Though necessarily athletic, Gregory wasn't an overtly spectacular
performer; rather he specialised in canny positioning and safe, unshowy
handling. He was unfailingly courageous, too, in an era when referees
offered goalkeepers scant protection from fearsomely brawny centre-forwards,
the likes of Trevor Ford, Derek Dooley and Nat Lofthouse, who seemed to
bounce off him like lightweights when they encountered his muscular frame.

As a boy Gregory was a promising boxer, and on the football field he was a
defender, but one day his goalkeeper brother Bob broke his leg and Ernie
took his place between the sticks. Thereafter he progressed to the West Ham
Boys side, for whom he was playing in the English Schools Trophy final in
1936 when he was spotted by the Hammers manager Charlie Paynter.

He was approached, too, by Arsenal and Sunderland, but he was an east
Londoner to his boots and never contemplated joining anyone but West Ham,
which he did that year. While still unpaid he helped local amateurs
Leytonstone to win the Isthmian League title in 1938, then turned
professional with the Hammers in 1939.

Aged only 18 at the outbreak of the Second World War, Gregory served in the
Essex Regiment, also finding time to make half a century of appearances for
the Hammers in unofficial emergency competition. Having lost the first half
of his twenties to the conflict, he made his senior debut in a 4-1 Second
Division victory over Plymouth Argyle in December 1946, and by season's end
he was the club's first-choice goalkeeper, a position he retained, injuries
permitting, until 1959.

For much of that period West Ham, managed from 1950 onwards byTed Fenton,
were a moderate Second Division side, despite the presencein their rearguard
of such luminaries as Malcolm Allison, Noel Cantwelland John Bond, and they
owedplenty to Gregory's heroics for keeping them buoyant.

There was no shortage of observers, especially in the East End, who
maintained that he should be rewardedby full caps. But he was unable to oust
such formidable rivals as Manchester City's Frank Swift, Bert Williamsof
Wolves and the Birmingham City man Gil Merrick, though he was granted one
outing for England 'B', against France in 1952.

In 1957-58, during which he entered his 37th year, Gregory was still at the
top of his game as the Hammers lifted their divisional title, and he
remained a major force as Fenton's side performed wonders by finishing sixth
in the First Division. However, that spring he lost his place to the
talented young Irishman Noel Dwyer and he made the last of his 406 senior
appearances in a 2-1 home defeat by Leeds United in September 1959.

At that point, extraordinarily, Gregory was less than halfway through his
tenure with the Hammers, whom he served as a coach for the next 28 years,
through the managerial regimes of Ron Greenwood and John Lyall, helping with
the development of, for example, the club's trio of World Cup heroes, Bobby
Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters. He offered experience, continuity and
wisdom to wave after wave of Upton Park hopefuls, while setting a peerless
example of integrity and simple dignity – and, frequently, entertaining them
with his infectious brand of humour. He was summed up admirably by one of
his star pupils, the England goalkeeper Phil Parkes, who described his
mentor as the greatest servant West Ham have ever had.

Ernest Gregory, footballer and coach: born Stratford, London 10 November
1921; played for West Ham United 1946-60; married (wife deceased, and one
daughter, deceased); died 21 January 2012.

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West Ham suffer transfer setback
London 24
Friday, January 27, 2012
2:08 PM

Rangers manager Ally McCoist has revealed that the club have rejected an
offer from West Ham for star striker Nikica Jelavic. The Croatian has also
been linked with a move to Fulham, QPR and Liverpool but there have been no
formal offers other than the Hammers. "I believe there was a bid from West
Ham on Wednesday that was rejected," McCoist said. "I'm not sure confident
is the word because you never know what can happen but obviously I'm very
hopeful that he'll still be a Rangers player at 11 o'clock on Tuesday."

Jelavic has made 45 league appearances for Rangers, since joining from Rapid
Vienna in 2010, scoring 30 goals.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ERNIE GREGORY
Leaguemanagersassociation.com

Ernie Gregory, who has died aged 90, was the goalkeeper for West Ham United
in the 1940s and 1950s and later served on the coaching staff; his
professional association with the club lasted for more than 50 years.

A Cockney born and bred, Gregory was a tall, rugged figure well capable of
withstanding the robust challenges to which goalkeepers were subjected in
the days before the laws of the game became more discriminating.

In his book West Ham United: The Making of a Football Club (1986), Charles
Korr remarks: "[Gregory] gave the impression of solid imperturbability,
although anyone standing close enough to the West Ham goal might have heard
some rather colourful language."

Ernest Gregory was born on November 10 1921 in Stratford, east London, and
as boy earned a reputation among his peers as a formidable streetfighter.
His career in football was sealed when West Ham's manager, Charlie Paynter,
saw him in goal for West Ham Boys against Preston in the final of the
English Boys' Trophy at Upton Park.

Paynter went to the boy's home, where Ernie's mother told the manager that
her son would soon be leaving school and would have to get a job — so he
would not be playing much football in future. Paynter assured her that, as a
member of West Ham's ground staff, her son would be earning a wage. The
Gregorys' neighbours were delighted by the news and clubbed together to buy
the boy a pair of shin pads.

Having joined West Ham in 1936, Gregory was briefly loaned to the east
London amateur club Leytonstone, helping them to win the Isthmian League
title in 1938. Although he served with the RAF during the Second World War,
Gregory was still able to turn out for some 60 games for West Ham between
1939 and 1945.

In 1946 he succeeded Harry Medhurst as West Ham's first-choice goalkeeper,
making his league debut that December against Plymouth Argyle, a game which
the Hammers won 4-1. In the 1947-48 season Gregory played in all 42 of the
club's league matches.

At this time West Ham were in the Second Division, where they would remain
until 1958. In August 1950 Paynter was replaced as manager by Ted Fenton,
who, according to Gregory, made a number of useful changes: "We were the
first team to eat steak before meals ... We used to train at Forest Gate
skating rink — it was narrow, so you could practise working in tight
situations."

Finally, in 1958, the club won promotion to the First Division ; but Gregory
would enjoy only a short period in the top flight — a year later he lost his
place as goalkeeper to the young Irishman Noel Dwyer. By now he was 38 years
old, and after West Ham went down 3-0 to Birmingham City in February 1959,
he was dropped. He played his last match, against Leeds United, in September
that year. He had made 481 appearances for the club, and had once made it on
to the international stage, for the England B side against France in 1952.

Gregory joined the club's coaching staff, where his first job was looking
after the reserves team. He was later appointed first-team coach with
special responsibility for goalkeeping, and among those he mentored was Phil
Parkes, who later recalled: "When I arrived at Upton Park I was 30, so I
knew how to keep goal, Ernie didn't need to tell me how to be a keeper. But
it was the mental side of the game that he knew so well and without him, my
career would not have lasted anywhere near as long as it did."

Gregory finally retired in May 1987, but he continued to be a familiar
figure at West Ham's home games at Upton Park.

Ernie Gregory died in a nursing home at Basildon. His wife, Yvonne, and a
daughter predeceased him.

Ernie Gregory, November 10 1921, died January 21 2012

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 27th January 2012

2012-01-27T07:11:00.001Z

Transfer update
WHUFC.com
whufc.com and the club's twitter feed are the place to be for the latest for
Hammers transfer news
26.01.2012

West Ham United are hoping to conclude at least one important new signing in
the next 48 hours. Joint Chairman David Sullivan says he and manager Sam
Allardyce are working hard to make additions to the Hammers squad as the
club continues its push for promotion from the npower Championship. With the
transfer window drawing to a close on Tuesday 31 January, the club are
pulling out all the stops to strengthen after going top of the table at the
weekend. News of all new arrivals will be announced exclusively on whufc.com
and the club's official twitter feed before anywhere else, so make sure you
keep checking back regularly for any new updates. "This has been one of the
most difficult transfer windows I have ever been involved with in all my
time in football," said Mr Sullivan. "However, with the window now coming to
a close, we would like to reassure supporters we are still working
tirelessly to bring in new faces and are hoping to make one or two important
additions to the squad in the next 48 hours."

West Ham's two January transfer signings so far, George John and Joe Dixon,
were announced exclusively on the club's official site, with both players
giving their first interviews as West Ham players to whufc.com and West Ham
TV before anyone else.

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'You are part of a family down here'
WHUFC.com
Olympic medalist Kriss Akabusi believes the Hammers are on track for
promotion
26.01.2012

Three-times Olympic medalist Kriss Akabusi believes 2012 is going to be an
exciting year for both West Ham United and east London as a whole. The 400m
hurdle and relay champion has been a Hammers fan for more than 40 years and
was back at the Boleyn Ground to act as guest stadium announcer ahead of the
2-1 npower Championship victory over Nottingham Forest. Now a motivational
speaker, Akabusi got the crowd going in his own unique and enthusiastic
style - an experience he enjoyed so much that he is planning to do it all
again soon. The 53-year-old is equally enthusiastic about West Ham's chances
of gaining promotion and of east London's prospects of hosting a successful
2012 Olympic Games. "I absolutely loved it, especially when they gave me the
team sheets and said 'Go on Akabusi, have some fun!'" he told West Ham TV.
"I called out the players' names in my own little style, so Jeremy, I'm
coming back for you next week son!"

"I've been a West Ham fan since 1969. I've seen thh ups and the downs with
West Ham. Our song says it all 'like my dreams they fade and die. You are
part of a family down here. It's great to support a great club. "I'm hoping
this year we'll win the Championship and then, next year in the Premier
League, not be vying to avoid relegation but to be in the mid-table."

While he cannot wait for London 2012, Akabusi did admit that he would love
to be at an age that would allow him to compete at the Games himself.
A medalist at both Los Angeles 1984 and Barcelona 1992, the Paddington-born
runner knows this year's Olympics will create a whole new generation of
sporting stars. "I was competing 20-odd years ago and had a great career. I
just wish I was 20 years younger and could compete again in London. It's
going to be tremendous. "The partisan crowd will give Team GB a 25 per cent
uplift. For this area, it's going to be phenomenal. You've already seen how
the landscape has changed and can see the excitement in the area. "In four
or five months it will be ramped up as we have the greatest Games on Earth
in our back yard. Superstars will be made. Hopefully we can carry on that
energy and excitement to West Ham next season. "We obviously love football
down here, but there will be stars made in all sorts of different sports.
I've been working with a handball team and there are a couple of really good
players. I just hope that, when it comes down here - cycling, rowing,
running, throwing or whatever - that we will get on board and support the
boys and girls who are representing our country."

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Taylor pleased to be back
WHUFC.com
Midfielder Matt Taylor was all smiles after returning to action after six
weeks on the sidelines
26.01.2012

Matt Taylor is planning his first-team comeback after returning from a
frustrating period on the sidelines. The popular West Ham United midfielder
was back in action in Tuesday's 1-1 Development Squad draw with Gillingham -
more than six weeks after suffering a calf injury in the 2-1 home npower
Championship defeat by Burnley. The 30-year-old said he would not rush back,
but admitted he did feel happy to be back out on the pitch for the first
time since 3 December. "It was OK. I played the first 45 minutes which is
nice," said Taylor. "It was decent to put a shirt on again to be honest and
get back out on the pitch. It has been a while so hopefully it will all be
rosy from here on in."

Having been ruled out twice with calf problems this term, Taylor is hoping
he will soon be back to full fitness. After being assessed and treated by
the club's medical team, the No14 is confident his injury issues are behind
him and he will soon be back to doing what he does best. With a club-high
six assists to his name, the left-sided player is set to be an influential
figure for the Hammers as they continue their quest for the title and
promotion back to the Premier League. "The calf its feeling better but has
been niggly and we have seeked out the best treatment that we could find,"
he confirmed. "Fortunately, we've got a programme in training and hopefully
it will all start coming together now and we can get back to playing
football."

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West Ham make £7m offer for Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 16:10 GMT, Wednesday, 25 January 2012
By Chris McLaughlin
Senior Football Reporter, BBC Scotland

West Ham have offered £7m for Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic, BBC Scotland
has learned. The English Championship leaders have been in negotiations with
the Ibrox club for more than a week. Rangers though, believe the 26-year-old
is worth more and could hold out in the hope of an improved bid from
elsewhere before the transfer closes next week. Manager Ally McCoist wants
any deal concluded quickly so that he has time to find a replacement.
McCoist has already described a reported £6m bid from the Hammers for the
Croatian international as "not nearly enough" and says no formal bid has
been received. However, BBC Scotland understands that West Ham have come
forward with an offer for Jelavic. Liverpool and Fulham have also shown
interest in the player. Jelavic, who has scored 30 goals for Rangers, made
the switch to Glasgow from Rapid Vienna in 2010 and helped deliver the title
under Walter Smith last season. Rangers have already concluded business this
month with the arrival of Swedish midfielder Mervan Celik from Gais of
Gothenburg. They ended their interest in St Johnstone striker Francisco
Sandaza after he turned down the chance to sign a pre-contract agreement.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers offer Bywater contract
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

16-year-old schoolboy Kieran Bywater is the latest young talent to be
offered a place at Tony Carr's world-famous youth Academy. Bywater - no
relation of former Hammer's goalkeeper Stephen - has been with West Ham's
youth team for a number of years but was only recently offered a
scholarship. Speaking with the Evening Telegraph, his father Simon said: "At
the moment Kieran is captaining the Under 16 team and has also featured in a
number of this season's Under 18 matches. "He has put lots of time and
effort into his football and has been rewarded by a scholarship. "Paul
[Baynes] and Nigel [Smith, Kieran's school's Head of Year and Deputy
Headmaster] have worked closely with the club to enable Kieran to
concentrate on his studies while focusing on his football. "This close
liason has enabled Kieran to live at the club's house away from home while
keeping up his studies."

Bywater has been at West Ham since the age of ten and has captained youth
teams at various levels. In 2007 he was a member of the West Ham youth team
that reached the final of the Shizuoka World Junior Football Tournament in
Japan. Later, in 2010, he captained West Ham's under-15 side to victory in
a Premiership Cup tournament.

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Sullivan hopeful of further arrivals
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

David Sullivan has revealed that he is hoping to conclude at least one
further signing before the transfer window closes early next week. West
Ham's co-chairman, speaking in a statement released on whufc.com this
afternoon confirmed that the club are hopeful of concluding one - possibly
two - new signigs beofre the month is out. "This has been one of the most
difficult transfer windows I have ever been involved with in all my time in
football," said Sullivan. "However, with the window now coming to a close,
we would like to reassure supporters we are still working tirelessly to
bring in new faces and are hoping to make one or two important additions to
the squad in the next 48 hours."

Despite rumours that Sam Allardyce had a transfer war-chest of up to
£10million to play with, the Hammers have failed to spend a single penny on
transfer fees thus far this month. The only two arrivals since the window
opened are American defender George John and rookie striker Joe Dixon, both
of whom arrived at the club on short-term deals.

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Hammers eye Muslimovic
West Ham look at Bosnia international
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
January 26, 2012 10:14am
SSN

Sky Sports understands that West Ham United are the latest club to take a
look at Bosnia international Zlatan Muslimovic. The 30-year-old has already
trained with Sunderland and Rangers in the past week as he looks to secure a
move to Britain. Whilst a deal with Rangers is still an option, Sam
Allardyce has now handed him the chance to make an impression at Upton Park.
Allardyce is looking to bolster his striking options in January and
Muslimovic has emerged as a target. Muslimovic is a free agent after leaving
Greek club PAOK last year.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham offer trials to defender Torres and striker Muslimovic
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 10:59 PM on 26th January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham are giving a trial to Panama central defender Roman Torres. Manager
Sam Allardyce is eager to have back-up despite signing George John from FC
Dallas.
Bosnia striker Zlatan Muslimovic, 30, is also undergoing a trial after brief
spells with Rangers and Sunderland. West Ham have also expressed interest
in Genk striker Jelle Vossen.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham consider cooling their interest in Nikica Jelavic
Ken Dyer
26 Jan 2012
Evening Standard

West Ham were today considering pulling out of their attempts to sign Nikica
Jelavic from Glasgow Rangers after the Scottish Premier League club rejected
their £6 million offer for the striker. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce is
keen to add a striker to his squad before next week's transfer deadline and
after having bids for several players turned down, has turned his attention
to the Serb Croat star, who has netted 17 goals in 28 appearances so far
this season. The Upton Park club have tabled a bid of £5 million plus
another £1 million based on games played but Rangers have said they want £8
million for the 26-year-old Jelavic. Discussions are on-going but West Ham
are reluctant to increase their offer for a player who, though he has scored
regularly in the SPL, is unproven south of the border. The Upton Park club
would also require Jelavic to moderate his personal terms, for any deal to
be a possibility. Liverpool and QPR have also been linked with Jelavic but
neither club has made an offer, which leaves West Ham as the only club who
have declared a firm interest in the striker.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers legend: 'West Ham have only four Premier League standard players!'
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Thursday, January 26, 2012
10:54 AM

West Ham goalkeeping legend Phil Parkes believes that the current squad
compares badly to the 1980/81 side that ran away with the second division.
West Ham legend Phil Parkes is confident that the Hammers will win promotion
this season, but he fears for their fate in the top flight with their
current squad of players.
The 61-year-old former goalkeeper, who made nearly 350 appearances for West
Ham over 11 years at Upton Park, has been a keen observer of the team this
season, but he has not been impressed by what he has seen. "I really think
that West Ham only have three or four players in their squad that will be
able to do the business in the Premier League," said Parkes. "Robert Green
and James Tomkins have been excellent, while I have been impressed by Matt
Taylor because he gives the team something a little bit different. "But
apart from that, maybe Mark Noble is the only other one who is good enough
for me."

West Ham sit top of the Championship following Southampton's surprise home
defeat by Leicester City, but Parkes suggests that is only because of the
poor standard of the division this season. "I still think they will be
promoted and I also think that they have the strongest squad in the division
and could run away with it if they can find a consistent run of form, but in
truth I think that says just how poor the Championship is," said Parkes,
voted West Ham's greatest-ever goalkeeper. "I thought that West Ham were
dreadful against Forest and really should have lost the game and in truth I
haven't seen them play that well all season."

The legend is, of course, from a different era of football, but he firmly
believes that the Hammers teams of his time would have run away with this
league. "I think when you consider the team we had in 1980/81 when we won
the second division, that side would have got promotion in this division
already. I don't think I have seen a team this season who would have beaten
us," he said. "Carlton Cole has got eight goals this season, but he should
have had double that. How many goals would David Cross have got against
oppositions like these? So many. "The team is set up well away from home
where they can sit back and hit teams on the counter-attack, but at home
they need someone with a bit of imagination and flair who can unlock
defences and, except perhaps for Taylor, I don't think they have got it."

Parkes was quick to praise one of his successors in the West Ham goal
though. He has been hugely impressed by the efforts of Green. "I think he is
back close to his best and that is testament to the character of the
player," said the former England international. "He doesn't come and collect
the ball like he used to, but he punches well from his six-yard box and I
think that he is vital for the team. "If they didn't have Green fit, I can't
see them going up because the back-up is just not good enough," he
concluded.

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Rangers look at Uchebo as West Ham plan new Jelavic bid
Herald Scotland
Graeme Macpherson

MICHAEL UCHEBO yesterday became the latest player to arrive on trial at
Rangers as the Ibrox club wait to hear whether West Ham United will return
with an enhanced bid for Nikica Jelavic. Uchebo has rejected a contract
extension with Dutch club VVV Venlo and is keen to further his career in
British football, despite failing to secure a deal with Stoke City earlier
this month. The Nigerian under-20 international is out of contract at the
end of the season and would be allowed to leave for a fee in the region of
£1m. "I feel I have enjoyed my time at Venlo and I believe now is the time
for me to get a move and go on another adventure in my career," he said. "I
want to move to an ambitious club either now or at the end of the season. My
dream is to play for the national team and I believe I would have a better
chance of doing that if I play in the UK."

Sources in London had suggested West Ham were weighing up an improved bid of
£7.5m for Jelavic although, as of last night, Rangers had received no
further offer for the Croat after turning down a deal worth £7m on Thursday.
It is understood the npower Championship side are also keen on Robert
Snodgrass, the Scotland forward, and are thought to have had a bid of £4m
rejected by Leeds United yesterday. They are expected to return with an
improved offer for Snodgrass, and possibly Jelavic, as they look to improve
their chances of returning to the Barclays Premier League at the first
attempt. "This has been one of the most difficult transfer windows I have
ever been involved with in all my time in football," said David Sullivan,
West Ham's joint chairman, last night. "However, with the window now coming
to a close, we would like to reassure supporters we are still working
tirelessly to bring in new faces and are hoping to make one or two important
additions to the squad in the next 48 hours."

With Jelavic's exit looking increasingly likely, Rangers have been active in
looking to secure possible replacements. As well as Uchebo, they have also
been linked with a move for Hamdi Salihi. The Albanian has been ordered not
to attend Rapid Vienna's winter training camp and looks set to leave the
Austrian club. "Hamdi has been told he will not fly with us to Portugal,"
said Peter Schottel, the Rapid manager. "That gives him time to conduct his
phone calls about his transfer, while the rest of us train in peace. He has
several teams interested in him and he is constantly thinking about the
transfer. So it's best he sorts it out by January 31."

Sasa Papac, meanwhile, has revealed he is no hurry to make a decision on the
future. The Bosnian defender, who has been at Ibrox since 2006, is out of
contract in the summer and will decide whether to extend his stay at Rangers
nearer the time. "I'm definitely staying at Rangers until the summer because
my contract binds me to that," he said. "But I am not going to hurry and
make a decision beyond that. I don't do long-term planning. If I stay at
Rangers beyond my contract, I will end my career here."

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West Ham hoping to make signings in the next 48 hours
By talkSPORT
Thursday, January 26, 2012

West Ham are set to make a new signing in the next 48 hours with Rangers
striker Nikica Jelavic still reported to be the number one target. Jelavic
has emerged as Sam Allardyce's first choice signing having scored 30 goals
in 45 Scottish Premier League games. West Ham have already had a £7m bid
turned down for the Croatian forward, but are expected to come back with an
improved offer. Fulham and Liverpool have also been linked with a move for
the 26-year-old, but it appears West Ham will win the race to clinch his
signature. West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan is working around the clock
to bring in a big name striker and is confident he can strike a deal in the
next two days. Sullivan said: "This has been one of the most difficult
transfer windows I have ever been involved with in all my time in football.
"However, with the window now coming to a close, we are still working
tirelessly to bring in new faces and are hoping to make one or two important
additions to the squad in the next 48 hours."

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West Ham sign Sawtry lad
PeterboroughToday.co.uk
Published on Thursday 26 January 2012 15:30

TOP boy Kieran Bywater has realised his lifelong dream after being offered a
scholarship at the famous West Ham Academy. The 16 year-old is currently in
his final year of GCSEs at Sawtry Community College but has been with the
London club since the age of 10. During that time Bywater has won an army of
admirers in the Hammers' junior set-up but has also managed to maintain his
studies thanks to the help of his head of year at Sawtry College, Paul
Baynes, and deputy head Nigel Smith. Dad Simon said: "Paul and Nigel have
worked closely with the club to enable Kieran to concentrate on his studies
while focusing on his football. This close liason has enabled Kieran to live
at the club's house away from home while keeping up his studies. "At the
moment Kieran is captaining the Under 16 team and has also featured in a
number of this season's Under 18 matches. He has put lots of time and effort
into his football and has been rewarded by a scholarship. "Above all this
though he wants to thank his schoolteachers, especially Paul who has acted
as his mentor and a liason between the school and the club."

Bywater will spend next year at the academy where his career will come under
the guidance of West Ham's director of youth development Tony Carr MBE. It
is the next step to stardom for the young Sawtry ace who was first spotted
as a six year-old by former Posh coach Mark Tracy in the Photo Unlimited
tournaments held at the Embankment. However, at the time Posh had no youth
set-up and he was snapped up by the Hammers. And over the past six years
Bywater has played for the club in Japan, Italy and France while in 2010 he
captained the Under 15s when they won a Premiership cup competion at Warwick
University.

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Collison: Plenty more to come
Thursday 26th January 2012 11:40
TeamTalk

Jack Collison has fired a warning to the rest of the Championship by
insisting there is plenty more to come from West Ham. The Hammers hit the
top of the table last weekend with a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest and even
though a lacklustre performance drew cristicism from some supporters,
midfielder Collison insists results are all that count this season. "It is
great for us if we are at the top of the league and we have another couple
of gears to find," he said. "It's frightening and it sends out a message to
the other teams to say 'we're there, we are not playing too great but we are
getting the results'. Then when it all comes together it is going to be
great for us. "Last season I was out injured so I know how it feels to be a
fan. It is frustrating for them at times but it's frustrating for us as
players. "We don't go out and not try to put five goals in, we go and do our
best. At the end of the day they have to be satisfied with where we are in
the league. I know we can produce a few good performances between now and
the end of the season and the ultimate goal is to get promotion."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 26th January 2012

2012-01-26T07:02:00.001Z

On This Day - 25 January
WHUFC.com
Two FA Cup ties take centre stage on this day in West Ham United's long and illustrious history
25.01.2012

Anniversary

West Ham United continued their ultimately successful quest for a first FA Cup triumph by drawing 1-1 at Leyton Orient in the FA Cup fourth round on 25 January 1964. An amazing crowd of 34,345 - still a Leyton Orient club record - turned out at Brisbane Road to see the Division Two O's host their top-flight visitors for a place in the last 16. Peter Brabrook was on target for the Hammers as they secured a second bite of the cherry against their east London neighbours.

The Hammers would go on to win their fourth-round replay 3-0 at the Boleyn Ground four days later before brushing aside the challenge of Swindon Town, Burnley and Manchester United to set up a final meeting with Preston North End at Wembley. There, in front of a 100,000-strong crowd, goals from John SIssons, Geoff Hurst and a last-gasp strike from Ronnie Boyce secured the famous old trophy for the first time in the club's history.

Classic match

West Ham United 4-1 Leeds United

FA Cup fourth round
25 January 1930
The incomparable Vic Watson (pictured) was in red-hot goalscoring form as West Ham United thrashed Leeds United in front of a 34,000-strong crowd at the Boleyn Ground. The club's all-time leading scorer netted all four of the home side's goals at the Whites were simply swept aside in east London. Watson was his usual prolific self during the 1929/30 season, banging in an amazing 50 goals in just 44 appearances in Division One and the FA Cup. Aside from the four goals he scored in this FA Cup tie, the centre forward also found the net five times in the two league meetings between the clubs - a 3-1 win at Elland Road in November 1929 and a 3-0 home victory in March 1930. Watson would also bag eight goals in just four FA Cup appearances that season as the Hammers reached the sixth round before being beaten 3-0 by Arsenal. In the league, West Ham finished the campaign an impressive seventh in the Division One table.

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The Big Interview
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is looking to the future after signing a new long-term contract with West Ham United
25.01.2012

James Tomkins enjoyed a fantastic weekend. The 22-year-old signed a new long-term contract with West Ham United until 2016 before celebrating his 100th game for the Hammers in a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest that took the Hammers top of the npower Championship table. The popular No5 spoke to West Ham TV about Saturday's win, the team's ability to adapt to new formations, signing his new deal, his West Ham career highlights and hopes of representing Team GB at the 2012 Olympic Games.

Was the result against Nottingham Forest more important than the performance?

"At the end of the day, it's all about the three points in this league. Sometimes it can be a lot harder than we want it to be and Saturday was another example of that. We've come home with the three points and we're top of the league, which is all we wanted."

Is it difficult to adapt to different formations?

"Not really. I think we're adapting quite well to any changes. We've got good enough and experienced enough players to deal with it. Even on Saturday, we changed it at half-time and all adapted to it. We're winning games and that's the main thing."

Were you concerned with the number of chances you conceded to Nottingham Forest on Saturday?

"They created more chances than we would have liked but I suppose it is all about convertingthem and they didn't. We got sloppy a few times and it's important that we don't under-estimate this league and get punished."

Did the first penalty come at an important time just before half-time?

"It came at a great time for us. We weren't playing too well and they would have been happy with 0-0 at half-time. Thankfully the decision went our way because sometimes they don't and we made the most of it."

You must be really pleased with your own individual form?

"Yes, I feel confident and I feel like I'm growing in every game and gaining good experience playing in this league, physically and mentally. I'm enjoying my football at the minute. As long as we keep winning games, I think I'll keep developing and getting better as a player, which is what I want."

You have signed a new contract. Was there ever any doubt about you staying with West Ham United?

"There was no doubt. I have been committed to this club for many years. I've been here since I was eight have always shown commitment. The main thing is I want to gain promotion and that's the main task I've set myself this year. There was no way I was going to go elsewhere. It's nice to put the speculation to bed now and I can concentrate on the rest of the season."

Saturday was your 100th West Ham United appearance. Which games have been the highlights?

"It's hard to put my finger on them but I'll always remember my first game at Everton in March 2008 and my first goal against Sunderland in April 2009. They were highlights, as was going top of the league for the first time in my 100 games. I've made 100 but hopefully there are many more to come."

Does going top of the table for the first time on Saturday add or reduce the pressure?

"That's a good question. Everyone wants to beat us in the league because we know we're favourites to go up, but I thrive on that pressure and I think all the other lads do. We're just delighted to be up there and will just take each game as it comes."

Why have we struggled to score goals from open play recently?

"It's hard to put your finger on it, really. It's not a major problem at the minute because Nobes is putting away his penalties. I'm sure it'll come but we're scoring the penalties that are winning us games."

Would you like to represent Team GB at London 2012 now you have been named in the provisional squad?

"I think it would be brilliant. If we get promoted this year, which we're all confident we can do, and this came at the end of the season then that would be a bonus. The important thing is to keep doing well for my club because then the call-up might come. If I keep playing well for West Ham United, then who knows?"

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One million pounds down the pan
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

The cost of West Ham's aborted bid for the Olympic Stadium is estimated to be an astonishing £1million, according to reports. An article in today's Evening Standard claims that United's efforts to secure rights to the Stratford-based complex after this summer's Olympic Games have cost the club's owners in excess of seven figures.
West Ham were granted preferred bidder status for the stadium back in February 2011, afer the OPLC - the Olympic Park Legacy Company - unanimously voted in favour of handing use of the £500million ground to United. However the decision was reversed last October due to ongoing legal action, mostly at the behest of Tottenham Hotspur and Leyton Orient whose claims of wrongdoing are yet to be substantiated. A number of sources are suggesting that West Ham will now pull out of the second round of bidding havng failed to receive reassurances with regards to a number of issues including naming rights, sponsorship and the use of the stadium by non-football activities.

Co-chairman David Gold, who stated as recently as November that, "I am ruling out developing the Boleyn [as] that would be pouring money down the drain" has recently made noises suggesting that he would be willing to consider redeveloping the ground's East Stand in order to raise capacity to 40,000. The East Stand - which contains the former Chicken Run - is the only stand at the Boleyn Ground that is more than 17 years old (having been opened in 1969). The Bobby Moore Stand - that replaced the former South Bank - was opened in 1993, followed in 1995 by the Centenary Stand (former North Bank) and then the new West (aka Dr Martens aka Alpari) Stand in 2001.

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Jelavic keen on West Ham move
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic has revealed that he would be interested in a move to the Boleyn Ground. Despite his father stating recently that a move to east London was not on the Croatian international's radar, Jelavic told the Scottish Sun that he would be delighted to join the Hammers - who he views as certs for promotion this season. "West Ham are a great club," he said. "They are not a second division club — they are a famous Premier League club who happened to be relegated and will return to the Premier League next season. "It would be nice to play there if the opportunity comes up and the club agrees."

But despite West Ham's interest, Jelavic admitted that he would be just as happy to remain in Scotland with his current club. "West Ham are a big club, but I'm also playing at a big club and it wouldn't bother me in the least if I had to stay here," he added. "The manager appreciates me and likes me, but I know the club are in a difficult financial situation and if they decided they needed to sell me, I would accept it. "There have been a lot of stories, but nothing is on the horizon yet. Believe me, I know as much about it as everyone else. I've left everything to my manager and I don't even call him these days. I don't care about it."

And moving to deny reports that a firm bid has already been lodged by West Ham, Jelavic said: "If they [West Ham] made an offer, it would be up to the club. If it were true, the manager would have told me because the club have always been fair with me."

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Jelavic would be happy Hammer
Rangers striker would quit Scotland for Championship club
Last Updated: January 25, 2012 11:23am
SSN

Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic says he would have no reservations about quitting Scotland to move to the Championship. The Croatia international has been linked with a host of sides including Premier League QPR and Liverpool - but Championship promotion-chasers West Ham are also in the hunt for his signature. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed the club have enquired about the availability of the prolific striker and Jelavic insists joining them would be a tempting option. He told the Daily Record: "West Ham are a great club and not a Second Division outfit. "They are a famous English Premier League club who happened to be relegated last season and will return to the top division next season. "It would be nice to play there, but I am playing at a big club so it wouldn't bother me if I had to stay and anyway I don't even call my agent about a transfer these days. "I know Rangers are in a tough financial situation and if they need to sell me I will go, but I would also be happy to stay."

Rangers boss Ally McCoist is determined to hang on to his star frontman in spite of the Hammers' interest McCoist has confirmed talks have taken place between Gers chairman Craig Whyte and his West Ham counterpart David Sullivan. I spoke to Craig and I believe Craig had a conversation with David Sullivan," said McCoist. "But Craig was very keen to point out that absolutely no offers had been made at all. I think it was just a pretty informal chat they had."

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McCoist - No bids for Jelavic
But initial talks have taken place with West Ham
Last Updated: January 25, 2012 5:38pm
SSN

Rangers have revealed that they have not received any bids for star striker Nikica Jelavic. But manager Ally McCoist has confirmed that Gers chairman Craig Whyte and West Ham chairman David Sullivan have held casual talks. The Croatian has scored 17 goals for the Scottish Premier League outfit this season and is also being linked with Liverpool, West Brom, Fulham and Queens Park Rangers. Jelavic has already admitted that he would be happy to move to West Ham, while his father has claimed that it is likely he will sign for Liverpool, but McCoist remains confident that he will stay at Ibrox.

No offers

He told the club's official website: "We have absolutely not received any bids for Nikica or indeed any of our players at all. No offers have been put in from any clubs.
"That's where we are at the moment. Sam Allardyce and I have spoken on the phone and had a conversation which will remain private. "Craig (Whyte) has also spoken to Mr Sullivan and they have had a discussion, too, which Craig has told me about. "But there has certainly not been an offer from West Ham for Nikica and everything we are reading is purely speculation. The same applies to everyone else in the squad."

Meanwhile, David Healy and Kirk Broadfoot have also been linked with a move away this January, but McCoist is desperate to hold onto his key players as they chase the SPL title. He added: "The key message with the likes of Nikica, David and Kirk is that they are all integral members of our squad and hopefully that will remain the case."

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Saints make up with Puncheon
Winger back in Southampton squad
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated: January 25, 2012 1:11pm
SSN

Jason Puncheon has been welcomed back into the Southampton squad after patching up his differences with the club. The 25-year-old had looked all set to leave St Mary's this month, after publicly clashing with Saints owner Nicola Cortese. Puncheon, who has had loan spells at Millwall, Blackpool and QPR in the past 18 months, criticised Cortese on Twitter, and the club immediately disciplined him. Puncheon was interesting a number of clubs, with Saints' promotion rivals, including West Ham, Middlesbrough and Blackpool, all keen. But now Puncheon is back in the first-team squad and looks set to play his first game for the club since 2010. "I admit my mistakes as a grown man, both my actions over the weekend and for the things that have occurred in the past, so I am pleased that Nicola has accepted my apology and granted me a clean slate," said Puncheon on Southampton's official website.

Pleased

"I know that I have a point to prove, and I know that some supporters have been on my back for the way that I have behaved in the past. I can only put that right through my performances on the pitch and showing that I am committed to Southampton Football Club. "I have always wanted to be here, but things weren't working out how anyone would have liked back in the summer and that is why I took the chance to move to QPR. That didn't work out for whatever reason, so I am delighted that I now have the chance to prove myself again. "When I signed here I said that within the three and a half years on my contract I wanted to get this club promoted to the Premier League. That has always been the case, and is still the case, and I will do everything I can to make that happen this season."

Saints boss Nigel Adkins also welcomed him back, adding: "Jason has stood up and accepted that he has made mistakes in the past and again recently with his unjustified comments, but wants to put that right, and that can only be a good thing for this football club. "We have always said that we will only achieve anything at Southampton if we all stick together as one. Jason has grabbed an oar and is back on board, rowing in the same direction with us, and we are delighted with that. "If the club can forgive Jason for his actions, then the fans should also welcome him back and get behind him as they do with the rest of the team."

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Transfer Forum Wednesday 25th January
January 25th, 2012 - 8:24 am by Bradley Palmer
West Ham Till I Die

Update 21:44: Confirmation of Jelavic bid being rejected on SSN. Am told a new offer will go in though and that the player himself has threatened a transfer request to push the deal through. So much info flying about and also so much news Im being sent all the time. I personally can't wait now for the end of the window. Has been incredibly frustrating for all involved, especially the owners. Credit to them though, they keep plugging away and are hopeful a deal can be sorted soon. Have also been told to expect a big announcement by the weekend. Honestly could be anything. Time will tell. Now then…time for a lie down!!!

Follow this forum for updates throughout today on transfer news surrounding Whu:

Early Update 7:15: "Negotiations for Jelavic are extremely close, DS is very hopeful he can conclude a deal soon" Received this info 1st thing this morning along with…

Early Update continued 7:16: "A bid is likely to go in for Snodgrass today after positive talks with LUFC yesterday"

Adzman ClungeWhu has just now tweeted: "Jelavic interview in Scottish press states he would join Whu no problems. Trying to encourage a sale."

Followed by another tweet saying: "Rangers want him to put in a transfer request and the deal will happen. 7.5 mil fee will seal the deal"

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Rub of the Green may not be kind to Rob
By CHARLIE WYETT
Published: 25 Jan 2012
The Sun

WEST HAM are taking a contract gamble over keeper Rob Green. The Championship high-flyers are refusing to offer Green a bumper new deal — even though his current one expires this summer. West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan are learning from mistakes made by previous boards and will only offer Green, 32, fresh terms if the Hammers secure promotion back to the Premier League. If the club miss out on returning to the top flight, Green — a £2million buy from Norwich six years ago — will walk away on a free transfer. Monaco and Tottenham have previously been linked with the stopper, who has not played for England since his mistake against the United States at the World Cup in South Africa.

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West Ham facing Rob Green contract dilemma
Published 22:29 25/01/12 By John Cross
The Mirror

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is facing an anxious wait over Rob Green's future at Upton Park. The England keeper is out of contract at the end of the season, but the Hammers will not offer him a new deal until they know they have secured promotion back to the Premier League - and may not be able to afford to do so if they miss out. It leaves the east Londoners knowing they may struggle to keep Green if an offer comes in over the next week. He could also secure himself a lucrative free transfer in the summer. West Ham are also due to renegotiate Carlton Cole's deal and may struggle to keep him if another club comes in - QPR have been watching developments.

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West Ham United frustrated by revised Olympic Stadium tender process
• Relations between East End club and OPLC more tense
• West Ham considering their options over Olympic Stadium
Owen Gibson
guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 25 January 2012 13.46 GMT

The future of the Olympic Stadium has been thrown into fresh doubt, with West Ham United considering their options amid bitter frustration with the process surrounding the tender for the £468m publicly owned asset. It is understood that relations between West Ham, long seen as the most likely tenants for the new venue, and the Olympic Park Legacy Company have grown increasingly tense since the tendering process for the stadium was relaunched late last year.

The East End club still intend to submit a bid for the stadium but will do so on their own terms rather than those offered by the OPLC. The OPLC, meanwhile, believes that West Ham's posturing is merely part of the negotiating process and remains confident it will ultimately conclude a deal. Keen to maintain some leverage, it also maintains that even if it does not it can construct a viable future for the stadium without football.

Burned by the experience of the last bidding race, which collapsed amid legal paralysis last October, the OPLC is running the process at arm's length. All queries and negotiations are being routed through lawyers and the secure data room they have set up. Officials were determined to avoid a repeat of the chaos, bitter recriminations and lawsuits that accompanied the previous tender process and led to its collapse. In particular, they have forbidden bidders from communicating directly with senior OPLC executives.

But that has led to intense frustration at West Ham, who feel that they are being treated in the same way as other bidders who may be planning to use the stadium only on an irregular basis. There is concern that they are being forced to table a bid without knowing the full facts and that the extra footfall and prominence they will bring to the venue and the wider Park is not being properly accounted for.

Bidders are marked down for any change they make to the terms tabled by the OPLC. But it is understood West Ham will ignore the terms on offer and instead table their own bid.

Major issues around the naming rights, for which the OPLC is currently testing the market, and the possibility of co-tenancy alongside a rugby team have complicated the bidding process.

The OPLC is also insisting that while it will pay for the basic conversion of the stadium out of the public purse, expected to cost around £95m, prospective tenants must negotiate over the financing for other improvements. West Ham are keen to investigate the possibility of installing retractable seating and a retractable roof.

There is also a fear at Upton Park that disquiet among West Ham fans may intensify if they are forced to share the stadium with a rugby club and have little direct sense of ownership of the ground.

When the original deal collapsed in October, London's mayor, Boris Johnson, said the stadium would "almost certainly" be let to West Ham and their vice-chair, Karren Brady, said the club would "tender again with the same energy, vision and determination".

West Ham's renewed doubts are merely the latest twist to the long-running saga over the future of the £468m stadium. When no football or rugby tenant could be found in 2007, organisers vowed to plough ahead with plans for an 80,000-capacity stadium that could be reduced to a 25,000 bowl after the Games. But the coalition government and Johnson were convinced that only a top-flight football club could guarantee a viable future and, with the OPLC chair Margaret Ford also keen to make more of the stadium as an attraction, new bids were invited.

Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham fought a bitter battle, with the former arguing the only viable option was to rip out the athletics track and the latter vowing to keep it.

West Ham, who have since been relegated to the Championship, and Newham council were awarded the stadium in February last year, but the deal collapsed under the weight of legal challenges and amid allegations of dirty tricks. Subsequently there have been a series of arrests connected to allegations that a corporate intelligence company hired by Spurs was responsible for accessing phone records of West Ham and OPLC executives.

West Ham are believed to be considering their options over the stadium and will decide on a definitive way forward in the coming weeks ahead of the final deadline for offers of the end of March.

There is a deadline of next week to submit expressions of interest and gain access to the data room. Orient are among the other potential bidders to have done so, though their chairman, Barry Hearn, also has concerns about sharing the stadium with a rugby club, along with concert promotion companies and Essex County Cricket Club. The OPLC is believed to have had discussions with at least two Premiership rugby clubs, including one of the bidders looking to buy Wasps.

The OPLC hopes to sign binding contracts with a series of tenants by the end of May.

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West Ham 'set to ditch move into stadium after the Games'
Matthew Beard, Olympics Editor
25 Jan 2012
Evening Standard

West Ham United may scrap plans to move to the Olympic stadium after the Games, it emerged today. The club's interest in making the 60,000-seat venue its home from 2014 has waned in recent months over the commercial deal offered by Boris Johnson's Olympic legacy agency. Its failure to table a bid would be a severe blow to the Mayor and ministers as they seek to justify spending £486 million on the arena and would plunge the legacy into crisis.

Interest from the football club, whose vice-chairman is Karren Brady, 42, is seen as crucial to creating a competitive bid and getting a good deal for taxpayers. The Olympic Park Legacy Company, the agency managing the commercial transformation of the publicly owned 500-acre site in Stratford, is seeking expressions of interest in the stadium by Monday.

It was assumed West Ham would return to the negotiating table after they were chosen as preferred bidders ahead of Tottenham Hotspur under a previous tender process - abandoned because of legal complications. But the club, top of the Championship and primed to return to the Premier League next season, will not submit a formal bid by the March 23 deadline unless the draft contract terms are vastly improved.

It has expressed interest in a 99-year lease but will not begin work on a detailed plan until there is clarity from the OPLC about what is required of potential bidders.
A bid is far from certain, say sources. The main stumbling blocks include the share of naming-rights revenue, branding issues on match days, flexibility on fixture dates, the ability to shape the stadium's design and the identity of co-tenants.

It is understood that one of three potential buyers for London Wasps rugby club is seriously considering a move to the Olympic stadium and has expressed an interest in the course of its due diligence. However, West Ham would refuse to share with a rugby club because of pitch damage.

Summer use of the stadium by UK Athletics means there would be only a two-week window to prepare the turf for the football season. West Ham are reluctant to spend more money on another bid without greater certainty. Nor are they willing to start the process of selling Upton Park, valued at £66.3 million in the latest accounts, unless the Olympic stadium will be their new home.

The club is thought to have spent nearly £1 million on the first bidding process, which collapsed in October after an anonymous complaint to the European Commission that its £40 million loan from Newham council constituted illegal state aid. Club accounts, published this week, show that "Olympic stadium project costs" had accrued to £240,000 by May 31, 2011 - the same month that Spurs launched an application for a judicial review of the Government's decision to award their London rivals preferred bidder status in a High Court challenge.

West Ham's cooler mood follows a claim by Andy Altman, the OPLC chief executive, that the commercial viability of the stadium was "not dependent" on football. The club was unavailable for comment.

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West Ham United consider options over Olympic Stadium
3:31pm Wednesday 25th January 2012 in
Guardian Series

West Ham United are understood to have become frustrated with the tender process for the Olympic Stadium. The process was relaunched in October and the Hammers were widely expected to become tenants at the new venue. It has been reported the Championship leaders will bid for the stadium but will do so on their own terms rather than those offered by the Olympic Park Legacy Company.

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Rangers reject £7m bid for Jelavic but expect striker to leave 'within days'
Michael Grant
Chief football writer
Scottish Herald

RANGERS will hold out for at least £9m for Nikica Jelavic after telling West Ham United the £7m deal they tabled yesterday was not enough. Herald Sport revealed yesterday Rangers were bracing themselves for a bid from the London club and that arrived within hours, only to be rejected by owner Craig Whyte. West Ham striker Frederic Piquionne was offered to sweeten the deal but the 33-year-old did not interest Rangers. The offer was not a straightforward £7m up front although the total deal, including clauses, could have added up to that amount.

It is believed that Rangers not only want more money for the Croat but also a bid that would involve nearly all of the transfer fee being paid up front. Manager Ally McCoist has repeatedly gone on record about his wish to keep Jelavic, who has scored 36 times in his season-and-a-half at Rangers, but the club's parlous financial position means they have to consider any sizeable offer which comes in for him or any other player.

Rejecting £7m suggests the club's immediate cash flow issues are not as serious as many have suggested, although if a Jelavic transfer does still go ahead in the coming days it would seem as though the club's financial position was being given priority over the prospects of retaining the Clydesdale Bank Premier League title.

Yesterday's failed bid may mean the end of West Ham's interest and Rangers are aware that the Championship club are unsure about whether to come back with an improved offer before the transfer window closes on Tuesday night. It is still probable that Jelavic will not be at Ibrox by then, though. Even if West Ham do not come in with another bid there is interest from other Championship and Barclays Premier League clubs and senior figures within Rangers expect Jelavic to leave within days.

The grave worry for McCoist is that his top goalscorer and best player will go without any of the transfer fee coming back to him to buy a replacement. Losing Jelavic will leave the squad hopelessly short of strikers, especially while Steven Naismith and Kyle Lafferty are out injured.

So far, McCoist has had an exasperating January transfer window with only Swedish midfielder Mervan Celik signing so far. McCoist would like to add a striker to his squad even if no deal is done to sell Jelavic.

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TOTTENHAM ALERTED AFTER WEST HAM PUT ROBERT GREEN CONTRACT TALKS ON HOLD
Daily Express
Robert Green's current West Ham deal runs out at the end of the season
Thursday January 26,2012
By Daily Express Reporter

WEST HAM risk losing England goalkeeper Robert Green on a free transfer after putting his contract talks on hold until the end of the season. That could alert London rivals Tottenham if they cannot sign a new goalkeeper during the remainder of this transfer window. Green's current Hammers deal runs out at the end of the current campaign, but the Championship leaders want to know whether they will be playing in the Premier League before discussing new terms. Spurs and Monaco have been alerted to the stand-off and will closely monitor developments.

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West Ham call it quits on Jelavic after £5m offer for striker rejected by Rangers
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 8:32 PM on 25th January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham are set to end their chase for Nikica Jelavic after Rangers rejected a £5million bid, plus add-ons, for the striker. The offer from the npower Championship leaders failed to meet the Scottish champions' valuation of the Croatian. West Ham had been reported on Wednesay to have bid £7m for the Croatia hotshot, but the Hammers are not prepared to go any higher than £5m. Jelavic is the club's top goalscorer with 17 goals this season and has also been linked with Liverpool, West Brom, Fulham and QPR. Rangers manager Ally McCoist confirmed at the weekend that informal talks regarding Jelavic had taken place between chairman Craig Whyte and his West Ham counterpart David Sullivan. Rangers previously rejected an offer of £6.5m from Leicester for the striker in August. Jelavic was quoted in a number of newspapers today expressing interest in a move to West Ham but also claiming he would be happy to remain with the Scottish champions. He was quoted as saying: 'West Ham are a great club; they are not a second division club. 'They are a famous Premier League club who happened to be relegated last season and will return to the Premier League next season. 'It would be nice to play there if the opportunity comes up and the club agrees. 'But I am also playing at a big club and it wouldn't bother me in the least if I had to stay here.'

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Tony Cottee Column; It's a great feeling to see West Ham are top of the league
Tony Cottee, London24 West Ham Columnist
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
3:00 PM

This season I have ended up repeating myself over and over again about West Ham's style of play and the way that we are grinding out results. The Hammers are learning how to win ugly and Saturday's victory against Nottingham Forest was no different. It wasn't a game that was high on entertainment, but it was yet another case of job done. Fans need to keep perspective that we are not in the Premier League but we are trying to get there. If we have to sacrifice entertainment for three points and automatic promotion then that is fine by me. It is fantastic feeling as a West Ham fan to look at the Championship table and see that we are top for the first time this season. In fact, it is the first time that we have been top of any league since 2006, and we were only top back then after the second game – which we played before everybody else! The icing on the cake came on Monday night though, when another one of my old clubs did the Hammers a favour. I think that many of us were expecting Southampton to retake top spot, but Leicester City became only the second team to win at St Mary's this season and that result gives the Hammers a nice three-point cushion at the Championship summit.

It is now crucial that West Ham kick-on and try to increase that gap as there are some sides such as Cardiff and Birmingham that are starting to hit some decent form and we need to stay ahead of them and not get dragged down. For me, it doesn't matter that we were awarded two dubious penalties on Saturday, all that matters to me is the final score of 2-1 and the three points. Our home form hasn't been brilliant this season but we are starting to get the results now. One thing that does concern me though is the lack of creativity in the side at the moment and I hope that it is just a phase we are going through of not creating many opportunities but still managing to win games. If a team is not scoring then it is easy to blame the strikers, but that is just not fair. I think that it is more of a team problem and I still expect us to sign another frontman before the end of the transfer window.

Along with another striker, I would like to see us sign a wide player too. We have desperately missed Matt Taylor and it will be good to see him back, hopefully in time for the Ipswich gam e. I am sure that Sam Allardyce will be delighted to have a little break right now with the Hammers not playing in the FA Cup. Of course, as a fan I would love to still be in the competition, but the weekend off will give Allardyce some time to take stock and hopefully add one if not two players to the squad.
West Ham's next game is a midweek trip to Portman Road on Tuesday night to face an Ipswich side that have been very hit-and-miss throughout the season. They have some good players and let's not forget that they beat us at home, so we owe them one! We've had some good games with Ipswich over the years and it is one of the more local away games so I hope that the atmosphere is fantastic and that we can continue our impressive away form.

Tony Cottee was talking to Nathaniel John

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 25th January 2012

2012-01-25T08:34:00.000Z

John scores on Hammers bow
WHUFC.com
George John was on target as the Development Squad drew 1-1 with Gillingham
on Tuesday
24.01.2012

George John enjoyed a goal-scoring West Ham United debut as he hit the net
in the Development Squad's 1-1 draw with Gillingham on Tuesday. The Hammers'
new loan signing from MLS club FC Dallas swivelled to smash a superb volley
high into the net from the returning Matt Taylor's right-wing corner just 17
minutes into his Hammers career. Taylor's comeback from a calf injury was
another highlight, as was the sight of Guy Demel in action again after six
weeks out with a thigh muscle problem. John was the star of the show,
however, looking calm in possession, strong in the tackle, quick to
anticipate danger and generally assured on his first appearance in a claret
and blue shirt. The 24-year-old, whose most-recent action had been in an MLS
Play-Off defeat by Thierry Henry's New York Red Bulls in October, is now
looking forward to being given the chance to impress in Sam Allardyce's
first team.

"I pride myself on working hard - that's how I've achieved what I've been
able to do," said the Seattle-born centre-back. "I think I'm a decent
defender so I just do my job well and pass the ball to the guys who need it.
"I'm excited about the opportunity. England has the best football league in
the world and I'm always up for a new challenge. The only way to get better
is to play with better players. "This opportunity presented itself and I
said 'Why not?'. I'd like to take my career as far as I can take it and I
would like to continue that career with a fantastic club like West Ham
United."

Tuesday's game also saw Ruud Boffin, Dan Potts, Henri Lansbury, Gary O'Neil
and Rob Hall enjoy welcome game-time as the Hammers dominated the opening 45
minutes against a Gillingham side that included six of the players who
started their 4-3 League Two defeat by AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.
Development Squad coach Ian Hendon made a host of substitutions during the
second half, giving run outs to Frank Nouble, Freddie Sears and new boy Joe
Dixon, but it was the Gills who improved after the break, equalising from a
right-wing cross on 53 minutes. However, overall Hendon and the watching Big
Sam will have been happy to see John look good on his first appearance for
the club and both Taylor and Demel make successful returns from injury.

West Ham United XI: Boffin, Demel (Sanchez 46), Trialist, John, Potts, Hall,
Lansbury (Trialist 46), O'Neil, Taylor (Sears 46), Trialist (Dixon 80),
Montenegro (Nouble 46)
Subs not used: Wootton, Ruddock

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Jack happy to hit the heights
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison was all smiles after helping West Ham United to a vital
victory over Nottingham Forest
24.01.2012

Jack Collison has plenty of reasons to be optimistic about the future. The
West Ham United midfielder, who signed a new contract in August 2011, was
able to celebrate the Hammers going top of the npower Championship table
following Saturday's 2-1 home win over Nottingham Forest. To complete a
memorable day, Collison's close friend and fellow Academy graduate James
Tomkins also put pen to paper on his own long-term deal. The No10 told West
Ham TV the only way his day could have been improved would have been if he
had converted either of two presentable second-half chances against the
Tricky Trees. "Going top is what we've been working towards because every
time Southampton lost, it seemed we would lose as well. It's nice that the
boot is on the other foot now. We've won and put the pressure on them
massively. "In the first half, I thought we were a little bit sloppy but we
came in one-up and when you've got a penalty taker like Nobes you know he's
going to hit the net nine times out of ten. It was great bottle from him.
"In the second half, we performed a lot better and created a lot of chances
and I think it's going to happen that one day they are all going to go in
and someone is going to get a good hiding. "That's the thing in this league
- if things aren't going for you then you've got to dig in, work hard and
hope someone pulls out that little bit of magic or you get a little bit of
luck. That's what happened and Nobes [Mark Noble] put the penalties away
lovely and we got the three points and went top of the league. "From a
personal note, it's disappointing not to see my name on the scoresheet, but
it's something I'll keep working on. I keep saying to the lads that I'm
going to score an important goal this year. "At the end of the day we got
the three points and hopefully I can pull one or two out before the end of
the season and it would be nice if it was an important one against one of
the good teams or to dig us out of trouble."

Talking about the new contract signed by pal Tomkins, Collison said the
defender's decision to spurn the opportunity to move to the Premier League
during the January transfer window was a sure sign of the club's ambition to
regain their top-flight place this season. "It's great news not just for me
personally because he is one of my best mates, but for the club as a whole.
I think it sends out a statement to anyone about the direction we want to go
in. We want to keep hold of our best players and he's been magnificent this
year. "You could see from the round of applause he got before the game how
much it means to everyone and what a big part of the team he is. It's good
that it's all sorted now and he can get his head down and concentrate on
taking us to the Premier League."

While Tomkins will not pose a threat to Collison's spot in Sam Allardyce's
starting XI, the No10 did concede that competition for places in the Hammers
midfield was hotting up with the return to fitness and form of Gary O'Neil,
Henri Lansbury and Matt Taylor. "There is a lot of competition for places
but I think that's brilliant for the squad and for the team. Everyone is on
their toes and working hard in training and you can't have any complacency.
That's what the manager wants. Unfortunately it gives him a few headaches
but everyone has got to go out there and do the business. "We've started the
year really well with three wins from three in the league and obviously we
want to continue now."

Looking further forward, Collison also discussed the appointment of Chris
Coleman as the new Wales manager following the untimely death of Gary Speed.
While the midfielder has not worked with the former Wales centre-back and
Fulham and Coventry City boss before, he is looking forward to seeing
Coleman's ideas ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, which
begins with the visit of Belgium in September. "It's unfortunate
circumstances the way it has come about, as Chris has said himself in
interviews, but obviously it's up to him now to carry on the work that Gary
Speed did with us. "We've got a great young squad and everyone is
enthusiastic. I'm sure he's going to be the same. I've never worked with him
before but I've head good things and I'm obviously keen to get back on the
Wales scene and push on with them as well."

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Hammers support for Dylan
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan joined his West Ham United team-mates in wearing special
T-shirts for Dylan Tombides
23.01.2012

Kevin Nolan was delighted to lead the way as the West Ham United first-team
squad showed their support for Dylan Tombides on Saturday's match with
Nottingham Forest. The West Ham United captain joined the rest of the
players in wearing special 'Get well soon Dylan' T-shirts in the warm-up
ahead of the game. The message for the 17-year-old Academy player was
simple; that he has the support and best wishes of all of the club behind
him as he seeks to overcome a serious illness.
Nolan said: "We all want to show our support for Dylan - he and his family
are going through what must be a difficult time, but he is a strong lad and
character and we know that he can get through all of this. "He is always
bright and happy when you see him despite what he is going through and I
give him absolute credit for that. He knows that as well as having his
family and friends helping him through, he has a family here at West Ham
United as well, we are with him all the way, we are rooting for him."

Manager Sam Allardyce was also only too happy to give his backing to the
idea, having seen the Under-18 already make a similar gesture twice this
season in the FA Youth Cup against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brighton and
Hove Albion. "The T-shirts were something we wanted to do to show our
support for Dylan. Everyone here is backing him every step of the way. He is
a brave young man, everyone at the club is thinking of him."

*Fans should keep an eye on whufc.com for news on a special T-shirt auction
coming soon.

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On This Day - 24 January
WHUFC.com
Ralph Milne and a 3-1 victory at Coventry City are the big moments to have
happened on this date
24.01.2012

Anniversary

Ralph Milne made his one and only West Ham United appearance on 24 January
1990. The on-loan Manchester United midfielder joined the Hammers after
finding his first-team opportunities limited at Old Trafford. Then 29, Milne
was introduced as a substitute for Liam Brady during the goalless League Cup
fifth-round replay draw with Derby County at the Baseball Ground. A
22,510-strong crowd saw the Division Two Hammers hold their top-flight hosts
at bay before going on to win the second replay 2-1 at the Boleyn Ground a
week later.

West Ham would go on to lose out to Oldham Athletic at the semi-final stage.
Dundee-born Milne, meanwhile, would return to Manchester United before being
handed a free transfer by manager Alex Ferguson in June 1991. The former
Dundee United, Charlton Athletic and Bristol City midfielder retired the
following year, 1992.
Classic match

Coventry City 1-3 West Ham United
Division One
24 January 1987

Tony Cottee bagged a hat-trick as West Ham United scored an outstanding 3-1
Division One victory at Coventry City on this date in 1987. The win at
Highfield Road completed a league double over the Sky Blues for the fourth
consecutive season. A year on from achieving a club-record third-place
finish in the Division One table, West Ham would end the 1986/87 campaign a
disappointing 15th in the standings. Cottee would still enjoy an outstanding
personal season, netting 29 goals in 54 appearances in all competitions as
the Hammers reached the fifth round of both major cup competitions. Coventry
would win 14 of their 21 home matches - losing just three, including their
defeat by John Lyall's side - to finish the season in a respectable tenth
place.

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Richard House game set
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will support London's first children's hospice at the
Southampton match
23.01.2012

The npower Championship visit of Southampton on Tuesday 14 February has been
designated as West Ham United's annual Richard House Children's Hospice
match.
Richard House, in Beckton, was London's first children's hospice when it
opened its doors in December 2002, and has been offering respite and home
care services since 2000. Since then, it has offered support to hundreds of
families who have children with life-threatening, life-limiting or complex
healthcare needs between the ages of 0 and 19-years-old. The hospice takes
its name from founder and Life President Anthea Hare, whose brother Richard
died as a very young adult from
profound and multiple disabilities. Hammers midfielder Mark Noble is a
patron of Richard House and a group of players visited the hospice to meet
patients and
family members and distribute gifts before Christmas. Noble and his
team-mates will wear t-shirts in the pre-match warm-up to raise awareness of
the hospice's work. Bucket collections will be held outside the Boleyn
Ground on matchday, with supporters urged to give generously to this
outstanding charity.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No thanks, Yanks
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham have rejected the opportunity to sign USA international Edson
Buddle and giant defender Andy Iro. The two players, who until recently both
featured for clubs in the MLS (Major League Soccer) spent a week on trial at
Chadwell Heath a fortnight ago but neither were considered to be of
sufficient quality to earn a permanent contract. Both Buddle and Iro
featured in the West Ham United development squad's friendly against Leyton
Orient on 9th January - a game in which the Hammers were comfortably beaten
3-0. 30-year-old Buddle - who is understood to have spent a few days with
Premier League side Everton upon leaving West Ham - has since signed for
German second division outfit Ingolstadt 04. Meanwhile the 27-year-old Iro -
a Liverpudlian by birth who has been in the US since 2004 and stands at an
impressive 6'5" - has since spent time on trial with Nottingham Forest, who
the Hammers beat 2-1 on Saturday afternoon to go top of the nPower
Championship.

Edson Buddle - fact file
Born: May 1981 - New York, USA
Turned pro: 2000 (aged 19)
Previous clubs: Long Island Rough Riders (2000); Columbus Crew (2001-05);
New York Red Bulls (2006); Toronto FC (2007); Los Angeles Galaxy (2007-10).

Andy Iro - fact file
Born: November 1984 - Liverpool, England
Turned pro: 2008 (aged 24)
Previous clubs: Columbus Crew (2008-11); Toronto FC (2011).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Duo on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United Academy graduates Jordan Brown and Matt Fry both featured
for a Gillingham XI against Millwall this afternoon. Whilst a West Ham XI
were entertaining a Gillingham XI at the Boleyn this lunchtime ,a youthful
Gills side - including the young Hammers duo - were narrowly beaten by
Millwall at Priestfield. Brown and Fry, who can operate at left back and in
the centre of defence both started the game. Brown - who was previously
tipped to break through to West Ham's first team this season - was replaced
at half time, whilst Fry played for 63 minutes. Two minutes after Fry was
substituted, the visitors scored the only goal of the game; Dany N'Guessan
climbing highest to nod home from close range. The pair are both looking for
a new club having been informed that their existing contracts will not be
renewed this summer. Neither Fry nor Brown have made a single appearance for
West Ham's first team.
Posting via his Twitter account after the game, Fry said: "It was nice that
the Gills allowed me some much needed game time today. It's been a while
since i put on a blue shirt at Priestfield. "I need to play matches, that's
the reality. Where that will be I'm not sure, but I loved my time at Gills
so who knows?"

Gillingham: Hawkes (Bourne 46), Maughan, J Brown (Thomas 46), Davies, Fry
(Lee 63), Brunt, A Brown (Coates 46), Rance, Payne, Marriott (Mackenzie 46),
Ford (Haysman 53).
Millwall: Allsop, Hackett, Riggott, De Havilland, McClaren, Batt (Sammoutis
60), Henry, Wright, Marquis, N'Guessan, Pusic.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taylor returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Matt Taylor played for 45 minutes today as Ian Hendon's development squad
eked out a 1-1 behind-closed-doors draw with Gillingham at the BG. The
much-missed winger, whose width and dead-ball expertise Sam Allardyce's side
have been missing desperately in recent weeks came through the run-out
unscathed - as did right back Guy Demel, who also featured for a full half.
The 30-year-old Ivorian has featured in just TWO first team games since
being signed by Allardyce from Hamburg SV on transfer deadline day back in
August. He played for 79 minutes at Middlesbrough on 29th November before
being replaced, then lasted for just four minutes in the 3-0 reversal at
Reading - West Ham's biggest defeat of the season - back in December. The
game also featured a host of players on the fringe of the first team squad
including Freddie Sears, Danny Potts, Gary O'Neil and Frank Nouble - plus
several triallists. West Ham took the lead through latest first team
recruit, American George John, who volleyed home a Taylor corner after just
17 minutes. The Gills equalised eight minutes into the second half to earn a
share of the spoils.

West Ham Utd XI: Boffin, Demel (Sanchez 46), Trialist, John, Potts, Hall,
Lansbury (Trialist 46), O'Neil, Taylor (Sears 46), Trialist (Dixon 80),
Montenegro (Nouble 46)#

Subs not used: Wootton, Ruddock.

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Lee poised for Derby switch
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham Academy graduate Olly Lee is on trial with Derby County. The
20-year-old midfielder - who is on the hunt for a new club having been told
that he has no future at West Ham - is currently training with the
Championship club, managed by Nigel Clough. Lee, who was one of several
young ex-Academy players advised to seek a new club earlier this month is
set to take part in a reserve team fixture against Burton Albion at Belper
Town FC tonight. Having signed a new one-year contract with the Hammers last
July, Lee had high hopes for the 2011/12 season. "I can't wait to get
started now and hopefully this will be the season when I can break through,"
he told whufc.tv last July. "I'm hoping this will be my big chance and I
want to grab it with both hands. I'm excited about getting started and
hopefully getting a place in the team."

But despite scoring three goals in five appearances for Ian Hendon's
development squad this term, Lee has failed to make a single appearance
under Sam Allardyce.
Instead, he has spent much of the season on loan at Dagenham & Redbridge for
whom he made 17 appearances between August and October (scoring three
goals).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Club could buy Olympic Stadium
MP admits stadium shouldn't always be under public ownership
Last Updated: January 24, 2012 6:28pm
SSN

A football club could one day own the 2012 Olympic Stadium, minister for
Sport and the Olympics Hugh Robertson has suggested. Such a move would come
in the future as the current plans are for the stadium to be publicly owned,
but leased out for a mixture of sporting events and concerts. Robertson told
the Culture, Media and Sport Committee: "It is not our intention that it
should remain in public ownership indefinitely." Robertson explained that it
could be possible for a club to buy the stadium, but that there would be an
agreement in place protecting the rights of UK Athletics and other members
of the legacy deal signed up as part of the original agreement for
post-games stadium use. West Ham's proposed move to the Stadium fell through
after a legal challenge from Tottenham and Leyton Orient. The Olympic Park
Legacy Company, Government and London mayor Boris Johnson then decided the
stadium would be leased out and retain the running track.

Manchester

Robertson also told MPs that they had learned from how the City of
Manchester Stadium (now the Etihad Stadium) had been handled after the 2002
Commonwealth Games. He added: "We have absolutely looked at the sensible
lessons that have been learned out of Manchester, which to be fair, was
regarded as a great success.
"It is a pretty good argument for how to get it right. We will certainly
build all that into the negotiations. "If a football club was one of the
legacy users and there should be a change of ownership in the future - and
they should want to acquire the stadium in the future, that will certainly
be built into the process. "It is not our intention that it should remain in
public ownership indefinitely. "There is no reason why it should be a public
stadium forever and a day."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McGugan catches Big Sam's eye
Hammers tracking Forest ace
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
January 23, 2012 12:01pm
SSN

Sky Sports understands West Ham are weighing up a move for Nottingham Forest
star Lewis McGugan. McGugan is thought to have impressed West Ham boss Sam
Allardyce during Forest's defeat to the Hammers at Upton Park on Saturday.
Highly-rated midfielder McGugan caught the eye for Forest at Upton Park,
including scoring a stunning long-range goal in the 2-1 defeat. Forest are
thought to be ready to cash-in on McGugan before the close of the transfer
window as they look to raise funds to bolster the squad elsewhere. Money is
tight at the City Ground and it is thought Forest boss Steve Cotterill will
have to sell before he can buy and he may be forced to sacrifice McGugan.
McGugan is regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Championship and
West Ham could move for the player as they look to boost their squad to
maintain their push for promotion back to the Premier League.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers star on trial at Rams
Promising star training with Derby
Last Updated: January 24, 2012 2:07pm
SSN

West Ham's promising midfielder Oliver Lee is on trial at rival Championship
club Derby. The 20-year-old, who spent the second half of last season and
the start of this season on loan at League Two club Dagenham and Redbridge,
is currently training with the Rams. The player, who is the son of former
Charlton, Newcastle and Hammers midfielder Rob Lee, has yet to make an
appearance for the United first XI, despite signing a new deal with the club
in 2010. However, the club are keen to see the youngster develop further by
playing regular football at a higher level. And Lee will be hoping to
impress Derby boss Nigel Clough by featuring in their reserve-team game
against Burton on Tuesday evening.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A Decisive Approach Needed on Transfers, as it is Time to Honour a Club
Legend!
January 24th, 2012 - 11:47 pm by S J Chandos
West Ham Until I Die

Hopefully we will start making some overdue progress on our transfer
targets, with the news of bids for McGugan and Jelavic. However, I have to
say that I have become increasingly frustrated by the club's approach to
securing its transfer targets in this January window. Rather than going in
with a firm and realistic bid to secure the players at the first time of
asking, the club appear to bid low and then follow it up with an increased
offer. By the time we increase the offer other clubs are alerted and/or the
owning club decide to play 'hard ball' and increase the price tag to promote
an auction. That is exactly what happened with our bids for both Rhodes at
Huddlesfield Town and Sordell at Watford. While the club were openly
talking openly about their interest in Jelavic at Rangers, prior to even
submitting a firm bid, Sam Allardyce was quoted as confirming that he wants
Jelavic, but accepted that PL clubs were also interested and that we were
likely to lose out to their greater financial resources. Some recent
reports indicate the Liverpool are in pole position and others suggest that
they are not interested in the player. You choose which version to believe.

Now, as much as we may long for the 'cloak and dagger' transfer deals of the
John Lyall era, we must concede that we now live in very different times.
John Lyall did not have to cope with the type of saturation sports media
coverage that we have now, nor clubs and agents opportunistically leaking
transfer interest/bids, with a view to generating additional interest and a
possible auction. However, surely the club should at least try to move
more decisively to secure their transfer targets. We have vacilliated in
bidding for both Rhodes and Sordell and submitted bids that were clearly
insufficient to clinch a deal. Maybe, an early,firm c.£5m bid for Jordan
Rhodes might have tempted Huddesfield's board, while a c. £3-4m bid would
most probably have secured Sordell at the first time of asking. Similarly,
we should have made an up front, £5m take it or leave it bid for Jelavic
early doors, before the Liverpools of this world had time to move. The
latest development is that we have now allegedly turned our attention to
securing Lewis McGugan, with a £3m bid and the Jelavic speculation still
continues.

On the other side of the transfer equation, it is excellent news that James
Tomkins has signed a new contract. It is likely that sources in the
North-East have been putting out disinformation about Tomkins being
unsettled and submitting a transfer request. This will hopefully put a
stop to all that nonsense, as long as Tomkins returns to the PL with West
Ham in April/May. If not, then you can be sure Newcastle Utd and Spurs will
come calling again in the summer and it will be that much more difficult to
resist their financial overtures. We must also secure Rob Green on a new
contract. It is unlikely that he will sign prior to us securing promotion,
but as soon as that is confirmed we need to secure his signature on much
improved terms. It is far smarter to do that, than potentially spending far
more in fees and wages to secure a keeper of a similar pedigree.

Once promoted, we must build our squad around the likes of Tomkins, Noble,
Collison, Nolan, Demel, Taylor, Cole, Baldock and Green. We have a good
core around which to rebuild for the PL, although the likes of Diop,
McCartney, Faye and Carew may well need replacing in the summer. Others
such as Faubert have fallen short at the top level and should definitely be
sold/moved on in the summer. The club also need to make decisions soon on
the likes of Sears, Fry, Spence, Brown and Nouble. Are they going to make
the grade at West Ham? Thankfully, we have some extremely good prospects
in Montano, Moncur, Potts and Hall; plus the outstanding younger generation
below them, such as Voce, Elliott Lee, etc, who should also be that bit
nearer, next season, to challenging for first team football.

As for Saturday's match against Notts Forest, well thankfully we got the
three points again. But the actual performance left something to be desired
on a number of levels. Apart from late in the second half, our passing was
pretty dire, we lacked creativity going forward and some of the players
looked like they had just met prior to kick off! We were so poor at times,
that we made Notts Forest look a good team and that takes some doing. I
suppose, like Sam Allardyce in his post-match interview, we can comfort
ourselves with the fact that we are winning matches, while playing poorly.
The fact that we are now leading the Championship, and there is a four
point advantage over Cardiff City, in third, is also a comfort. It is just
a pity that Cardiff City got that last minute winner, on Saturday, or the
gap would have been an even healthier six points. We might also take Jack
Collison's optimistic view that we are leading the Championship and have not
yet got out of first gear! Collison was reported as going on to state that
it was scary what West Ham could achieve once they get in top gear. Agreed
Jack, but surely now is the time to stop talking about it and for the team
to actually achieve it!

The bright spots on Saturday were the individual performances of Tomkins,
Noble, Collison and Baldock, who all did well in a very disjointed team
performance. Carlton Cole worked hard, but he should be scoring more goals
at this level. Similarly, the Cole-Baldock striking partnership should have
gelled by this stage of the season. They should be supplying the goals to
fire our promotion challenge, but it is just not happening at the moment.
It is sobering to consider that we have won the last two matches with three
penalities! It was good to see Henri Lansbury back and I feel that he has a
lot to offer in the remainder of this season. He was particularly unlucky
not to score with that excellent half volley in the 2nd half. While the
return of Matt Taylor cannot come quickly enough as far as I am concerned.
We look a far better, and more balanced, side with Taylor on the left flank.
Lets just hope that he can shake off his injury problems once and for all,
and the same also applies to the formidable Guy Demel at right back.

Well done to Leicester City for defeating Southampton on Monday evening.
Have the wheels started to fall off the Saints band wagon? I have been
predicting that they would slip up all season and was starting to think that
it might not happen. And it still might not, remember that they still have
Lambert to come back in their team! Crucially, we are now top by three
points and the objective must be stay ahead and take the title. As such,
now would be an excellent time for the team to finally click and fulfill
their true potential. Hopefully, some good quality additions will help
bring that about. Apart from the interest in Sordell, McGugan and Jelavic,
it is interesting that Snodgrass's contract negotiations with Leeds Utd have
reportedly broken down. Snodgrass, along with King at Leicester City, is
one of the best midfielders in the Championship and both players could
perform at PL level.

Finally, it was very sad to learn of the passing of Ernie Gregory. Ernie
was, of course, one of the greatest ever Hammers keepers (probably second
only to Phil Parkes) and will always be remembered for being the last line
of defence in Ted Fenton's famous 1957-58 2nd division winning side. After
retiring, he joined the coaching staff and become probably the first
specialist goal keeping coach, a position that is now standard at all top
clubs. In that role, he coached generatons of Hammers custodians and was a
respected and much loved figure at the club. He is a true Hammers legend
and the club should commission something appropriate to honour and celebrate
his decades of first class, loyal service to the club. So how about it,
Messrs Sullivan and Gold, after all are we ever likely to see that type of
dedicated, one club service again? I think we all know the answer to that
one!

SJ. Chandos

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Hammers in the hunt to sign Liverpool wonderkid
Published 22:00 24/01/12 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

Sam Allardyce has joined Owen Coyle and Brendan Rodgers in the race to sign
Liverpool wonderkid Raheem Sterling on loan. The West Ham, Bolton and
Swansea bosses are all keen to work with the youngster champing at the bit
to play more regularly at Anfield. Sterling, 17, was snapped up by Liverpool
from Queens Park Rangers for a deal totalling £5million. But although he has
been scoring goals for the reserves, the youngster has been kept in cotton
wool as boss Kenny Dalglish relies on his more experienced players. Sterling
hit the headlines last year when he smashed five goals in a FA Youth Cup
match against Southend. But although he has travelled with the senior squad
to several games he has yet to be called up to the first team. Coyle is a
big fan and see believes Sterling could make the kind of improvement seen by
Daniel Sturridge during his loan spell at Bolton. Rodgers, who has shown his
skill at improving young players at Swansea, is also a huge admirer of
Sterling while Allardyce has run the rule over the striker as he hunts for a
frontman to shoot West Ham into the Premier League next season. Although the
Hammers are top of the Championship Big Sam is known to be unhappy with a
amount of goals his strikers have scored.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rangers facing difficult decision as West Ham prepare Jelavic offer
Herald , Scotland

RANGERS were last night bracing themselves for a bid of around £7m from West
Ham United for Nikica Jelavic. The two clubs have been in ongoing contact
during the January window and Rangers now expect a bid to come in for their
Croatian top scorer. Owner Craig Whyte would then have a decision to make on
whether to sell or hold out for more, and he would attempt to boost the
value of a bid by negotiating clauses, but Rangers' parlous financial
position may leave him with little option but to accept.

Selling to West Ham would lessen the immediate pressure on the club's
finances but would seriously damage their prospects of winning the
Clydesdale Bank Premier League. Losing Jelavic also would be unpopular with
many fans, especially since Ally McCoist would receive only a fraction of
the transfer fee to sign any replacement.

McCoist had revealed on Saturday that Whyte had held talks with David
Sullivan, the West Ham chairman, but last night took to the club website to
assure supporters no bid had yet been received. Despite speculation about
interest from Queens Park Rangers and Liverpool, West Ham have shown the
most enthusiasm so far for the 26-year-old who has scored 17 goals in 27
games this season and 36 in total since joining the Ibrox club for £4m 17
months ago.

Jelavic himself seemed to open the way for a move to London in an interview
with a newspaper in Bosnia. "West Ham are a great club; they are not a
second division club," he said. "They are a famous Premier League club who
happened to be relegated last season and will return to the Premier League
next season. It would be nice to play there if the opportunity comes up and
the club agrees.

"But I am also playing at a big club and it wouldn't bother me in the least
if I had to stay here. The manager appreciates me and really likes me, but I
know the club are in a difficult financial situation and if they decided
they needed to sell me, I would accept it, but I would also be happy to
stay. There have been a lot of stories, but nothing is on the horizon yet.

"I have left everything to my [agent] and I don't even call him these days.
I don't care about it. I know they are talking about offers from Liverpool
and West Ham, but if they made an offer, it would be to the club. And if it
were true, the Rangers manager would have told me, because the club have
always been fair with me."

Meanwhile Rangers are no closer to resolving their search for a new striker
after Zlatan Muslimovic, the Bosnian who was at the club on trial, left
after only one day to train with Sunderland instead. The Bosnian
internationalist is a free agent after leaving PAOK Salonika last summer,
but his agent insists that he is still prepared to consider an offer from
Rangers.

"Zlatan had a very good feeling about Rangers," Jan Bezemer told stv.tv.
"They are a very nice club, the trainer was a good man and he spoke very
well. Rangers want him but we have lots of interest in the player. Another
offer has come in. Zlatan trained at Sunderland today and we will now see
how that works out. He would like to play in a good league. The leagues in
Scotland and England fall into that category."

McCoist is determined to sign a striker this month and, although Kris Boyd
remains a free agent, having rejected an offer to join Houston Dynamo in the
MLS, it remains unlikely he will receive an offer.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers make audacious bid for Chelsea's Kalou to boost promotion push
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 10:40 PM on 24th January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham have launched an ambitious bid to sign Chelsea striker Salomon
Kalou on loan. Manager Sam Allardyce has gone cool on Rangers striker
Nikica Jelavic after their £6m bid was rejected and is hopeful that Chelsea
will allow them to take Kalou instead. The 26-year-old is available after
being used sparingly by Andre Villas-Boas but may need some persuading to
drop down a division. Allardyce also asked about Florent Malouda but was
told he was not available. Kalou has been a target for Premier League clubs
including Arsenal but Chelsea would rather sell him abroad than to a rival.
A short term move to the Championship may suit.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boa Morte signs for Orlando Pirates
Reuters - Yesterday, 16:55
FourFourTwo.com

Former Portugal international Luis Boa Morte has signed for South African
champions Orlando Pirates where he will join former West Ham United
team-mate Benni McCarthy in attack. The club on Tuesday announced an
18-month deal with the 34-year-old. Boa Morte left financially-strapped
Greek club Larissa after just six months in December. Now 34, he played at
Portugal's Sporting before embarking on a 14-year career in England in 1997
when he joined Arsenal. He also played at Southampton, Fulham and West Ham.
Pirates play in the upcoming African Champions League but Boa Morte's
signing is too late for him to be registered for the competition. The second
half of the South African season commences on February 15.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Race to sign Eder hots up as West Ham join Everton in chase for striker
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 11:08 PM on 24th January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham are rivalling Everton for Academica Coimbra striker Eder. Everton
watched the striker last week and he was pulled out of Academica's game with
Unaio Leiria on Friday ahead of a proposed move. Academica want £2million
for the 24-year-old but will let him out on loan fro the rest of the season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
CSKA Moscow join West Ham in race to sign Rangers striker
By Warren Haughton
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
TalkSport

West Ham could be about to lose out on Rangers hitman Nikica Jelavic to CSKA
Moscow. With reports of interest from the Hammers, Russian giants CSKA have
now entered the race to sign the striker. The Russians are keen to bolster
their striking options during the winter break ahead of their Champions
League tie against Real Madrid next month. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce
admitted to talkSPORT on Sunday that he was interested in the Croatian
international to boost the Londoners push for promotion. But the lure of
Champions League football and a bumper pay packet could be enough to land
the 26-year-old, who is keen to cement his place in the Croatia squad for
Euro 2012. Liverpool, QPR and Fulham have also been linked with Jelavic, but
CSKA now appear frontrunners to secure his signature.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender: 'I was never going to leave the Hammers'
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
10:00 AM

Hammers defender James Tomkins celebrated signing a new-deal at Upton Park
with a man-of-the-match performance in the narrow win against Nottingham
Forest
Things were a little worrying last week at Portsmouth. Despite West Ham's
battling win, manager Sam Allardyce did not allow gathered journalists to
speak to defender James Tomkins amid speculation that he handed in a
transfer request and was heading back to the Premier League. A week later
and all is well in the Hammers dressing room after the 22-year-old put pen
to paper on a new four and a half year deal at Upton Park. Despite the
rumours, there was really only one thing that the centre half wanted to do.
"There was no doubts for me really," revealed Tomkins after his
man-of-the-match display in the 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest. "I have
always been committed to this club. I have been here since I was eight and
obviously there was speculation, but it is nice to put that to bed now and I
can concentrate on the rest of the season."

It is little wonder that the likes of Newcastle and QPR have been sniffing
round the youngster. He has been in superb form all season and is fast
developing into a possible captain of the future. "I feel confident and I
feel that I am growing with every game and gaining good experience playing
in this league, both mentally and physically," he said. "I am enjoying my
football at the minute and as long as we keep winning game I will keep
developing and getting better as a player which is what I want."

Despite his tender years, Saturday was Tomkins' 100th game in claret and
blue, but predictably he is looking forward to the next hundred rather than
backwards.
"You always remember your first game and your first goal," recalled Tomkins.
"They have been two highlights for me, while it is also nice to be top of
the league which I haven't been for those 100 games. "It's great to reach a
hundred, but hopefully there are many more to come."

Saturday's win probably won't live long in the memory for Tomkins, but he
was just delighted to get the win in the end. "Forest certainly created more
chances than we would have liked, but it is all about conveting them and
they didn't," he said. "The penalty came at a great time for us when we
weren't playing too well and they wouldn't have been happy, but the decision
went our way."

It did, but the decision of Tomkins to stay at West Ham is likely to be an
even greater benefit.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ernie Gregory obituary
West Ham goalkeeper who made 481 appearances for the club
Brian Glanville
guardian.co.uk, Monday 23 January 2012 13.34 GMT

The goalkeeper Ernie Gregory, who has died aged 90, had a career with West
Ham United that spanned an astonishing half-century. "They don't bump Ernie
Gregory," said one knowing journalist of the 6ft 2in player. Indeed they did
not: Gregory was ideally built for the physical challenges to which keepers
were subjected in those days; they had little of the protection now afforded
to them by referees. Gregory made 481 appearances between the sticks for the
Hammers and after his last match, in 1959, he was active as a coach for the
club until his retirement in 1987.

Born in Stratford, east London, Gregory was good with his fists as a boy; he
would recount, with a mixture of pride and faint remorse, how his friends
were constantly matching him against other street fighters, and how he would
always win. He joined the Hammers straight from school in 1936, after
playing for West Ham Boys, and then had a short attachment to the prominent
east London amateur club Leytonstone. He returned to West Ham before the
outbreak of the second world war, during which he served with the Essex
Regiment and the RAF.

After the agile, much smaller keeper Harry Medhurst left West Ham for
Chelsea in 1946, Gregory became the club's first-choice keeper. He made his
league debut for the Hammers at the end of that year, in a 4-1 victory
against Plymouth Argyle. The club remained in the second division for the
next dozen years, during which time the rugged Gregory held his own. In one
game at Upton Park, the hulking, red-haired Sheffield Wednesday
centre-forward Derek Dooley, by his own admission, surreptitiously held
Gregory down with him on the ground, enabling another Wednesday forward to
shoot into an empty goal. When it came to the return match at Hillsborough,
Dooley left the field with a torn jersey and Gregory's stud marks on his
chest.

In 1952 Gregory made an appearance for the England B team in a match against
France. The Hammers then gained promotion after a victorious 1957-58 season
in which Gregory made 37 appearances in 42 matches. In their first season in
the top flight, Gregory played in 32 of the league games. But in March 1959,
he was succeeded by the young Irish goalkeeper Noel Dwyer. Gregory had one
more league game for the club in the next season, then joined the coaching
staff and initially looked after the reserves team. A valued tutor, he
worked with such accomplished keepers as Phil Parkes and Mervyn Day. In
time, he was used by West Ham to watch and report on their future opponents.

Buoyant, vigorous and genial, imbued with cockney humour, Gregory continued
to attend West Ham's games at Upton Park. His wife, Yvonne, and his daughter
predeceased him.

• Ernest Gregory, footballer, born 10 November 1921; died 21 January 2012

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 24th January 2012

2012-01-24T06:49:00.001Z

Noble on the spot again
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble was in high spirits after scoring two penalties to send West Ham
United top of the table
22.01.2012

Mark Noble was the man on the spot again as his two penalties fired West Ham
United to the top of the npower Championship table. The No16 fired in his
fifth and sixth spot-kicks of the season as the Hammers beat Nottingham
Forest 2-1 at the Boleyn Ground. While Noble was naturally pleased to be the
match-winner for the second game in succession, the midfielder was happier
with the collective achievement of winning three points that took his team
to the summit for the first time since topping the Premier League in August
2006.

"The win was more important than my goals. We've been lucky enough to get
three penalties in two games and I've been lucky enough that they've gone
in. Three points, a win and we're top of the league and our aim now is to go
unbeaten for the rest of the season and clinch automatic promotion. That's
going to be our aim, no matter how the other results go. "I think the only
other time we've been top while I've been here was after the first game of
the season! It will be nice to see the table but it doesn't make any
difference until the last game has been played. Then we'll be smiling.
"Southampton have got a game on Monday but we need to concentrate on
ourselves, keep winning and getting points on the board. That's nine points
from three games and that's what we need to keep on doing."

Noble came within a yard of netting his first hat-trick in Claret and Blue,
only to see a 20-yard shot flash wide of Camp's upright. "It went just a
yard wide, unfortunately. When I hit it, I hit it quite well and I thought
it was going in, to be honest. Scoring a hat-trick would have been nice but
the three points were the most important and that's all we care about."

The 24-year-old is relishing his role as the focal point of Sam Allardyce's
side. Noble is almost always at the hub of the Hammers' best attacking play
and is enjoying the added responsibility. "It's nice to get the ball and the
manager just says to me 'Mark, go out and play'. We know how he wants to
play and he tells me to get on the ball and get us playing. Hopefully I'm
doing that for the team."

While Noble's main priority is winning promotion back to the Premier League,
he is also harbouring ambitions of appearing at the London 2012 Olympic
Games.
The Canning Town-born player has been approached about the possibility of
being part of Team GB as an over-age player and would love to be part of the
Olympics in his home Borough of Newham. "It would be nice, being born in
this area it would be nice to be involved, but I am one of the older ones
and I don't know if David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Joe Cole have come out and
said they want to play! "Whether I get in is another story so it might be
the younger boys like Tonks, Jack, Rob Hall and Henri Lansbury who could be
involved. You never know though!"

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Big Sam was happy to be leading the table after Saturday's win against
Nottingham Forest
23.01.2012

Sam Allardyce is enjoying the feeling of starting the week on top of the
npower Championship table. The West Ham United manager watched a brace of
penalties from Mark Noble see off Nottingham Forest 2-1 - who registered a
late consolation from Lewis McGugan - at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday, with
the result sending the Hammers to the top of the table for the first time
this season. The success was West Ham's third consecutive league win and
opened up a three-point gap between the Hammers and second-placed
Southampton, although the Saints can go back to the summit with victory over
Leicester City on Monday evening. "I think we will get a psychological boost
from going top," said Big Sam. "It might only be for a short time as
Southampton play on Monday night and have a fantastic home record. "We might
not stay there that long but we've shown that we can get there. When we've
had the opportunity to get there before we've blown it. We didn't blow it on
Saturday and got the precious three points we were looking for and can feel
very satisfied by getting the 53 points we have done up until now."

Big Sam conceded that his side were not always at their best against Forest,
though. Before Noble had given the Hammers a 45th-minute lead from the spot
the visitors had passed up several good chances to open the scoring. "The
players looked a bit nervous - we started a little slowly and then one or
two passes started going astray. Then Forest created a couple of
half-chances and we started to get a little more edgy and nervous so it
wasn't our usual fluent performance that we show at home. "Whether we
deserved it or not is immaterial. When we came in at half-time we said 'Well
we haven't played well but we how many teams have come back from one-nil
down against us and won' and the answer to that is hardly any. "I think
everyone turned up thinking that West Ham would just win 3-0 but it doesn't
work like that. We had to really dig it out. From our point of view we're
top of the league for the first time in 27 games."

West Ham now have ten days without a game before resuming their npower
league campaign with a trip to Ipswich Town on Tuesday week and Big Sam will
be looking to use the break to focus efforts on bringing in attacking
reinforcements. "Against Forest we created some chances from really good
movement and had some opportunities to score. I still had that nagging doubt
that we hadn't converted chances to goals in open play. It's still a little
concern but I still have faith in the players here even though I am looking
to strengthen in that area. "At the start of the season we were having no
problem finishing our chances. We scored four against Watford, four at
Forest, three at Leicester and four against Blackpool, so we've shown we can
do it but at the moment we're not quite clinical enough. We had to rely on
Noble with two very good penalties."

There was concern just before the break when Papa Bouba Diop was forced from
the field with a slight thigh strain. Although he is expected to recover in
time to face the Tractor Boys his replacement, Henri Lansbury, caught the
eye as the Hammers seized control in the second period. "I think Henri did
well. His passing got better and he was better than some of the players that
were playing at that time. Improving the team is very important when you
come on as a sub because our team in midfield were not passing well. "It was
one of those days where we've overcome the nerves and the guys will have
woken up on Sunday to see us at the top of the league."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ladies keep title dream alive
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies scored a 1-0 league victory at Queens Park Rangers to
maintain their title challenge!
23.01.2012

West Ham United Ladies scored a vital 1-0 FA Tesco Women's Premier League
Southern Division victory at Queens Park Rangers - a result that puts the
Hammers within touching distance of promotion to the National Division for
the first time in the club's history. Julia Setford's side now sit a point
behind leaders Colchester United, who have finished their complement of
fixtures, with one league match remaining. Third-place Portsmouth have three
games left to play but sit four points adrift of West Ham. With their hosts
battling to avoid relegation, the Hammers were forced to work hard for their
victory at Hayes FC's Farm Park stadium, with the winning goal being scored
by Lindsey Morgan (pictured) just 12 minutes from full-time. West Ham had
beaten QPR 3-0 at Ship Lane back in October, but the west London side have
made a host of new signings since then and posed a serious threat to the
visitors' title ambitions. The first half was a midfield battle, with West
Ham having to rely on breakaway attacks as QPR camped inside the Hammers
half. Centre-backs Rosey Sulivan and Danica Revell were in fine form,
however, and Rangers had to settle for long-range efforts that goalkeeper
Nikki Duncan dealt with confidently.

The second half was a more frantic and evenly-balanced affair as the
Hammers' stamina and fitness began to tell, but not before QPR's Cherrelle
Albert had rattled the post with a powerful shot and both Sullivan and
Natalie Grafton had made vital clearances. The longer the game went on, the
more West Ham gained control and they finally broke the deadlock in the 78th
minute. Having broken out from the back, Becky Merritt showed some clever
footwork on the edge of the penalty area before firing in a powerful shot
that goalkeeper Michelle Beazley could only push back into the penalty area.
Morgan pounced to drive in another shot that Beazley could only push into
the back of the net. The remaining 12 minutes were nail-biting for both sets
of supporters as both teams fought for every ball until the final whistle.

West Ham now have to wait until 4 March for their final league match at home
to Brighton and Hove Albion and for the promotion places to be decided. In
the meantime, Setford's team will continue in three cup competitions,
starting next week away at Colchester United in the League Cup. On 5
February, the Ladies travel to Derby County in the FA Women's Cup third
round, while C and K Basildon will form the opposition in the Essex FA
County Cup semi-finals on 19 February.

West Ham United Ladies: Nikki Duncan, Natalie Grafton, Jess Barling, Danica
Revell, Rosey Sullivan, Stacey Little, Lindsey Morgan, Carly Roache, Kelley
Blanchflower, Becky Merritt, Gemma Shepherd
Subs: Tracey Duxbury, Kerry Stimson, Mel Abegglen, April Bowers

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carr on Palace defeat
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Tony Carr believes the U18s were unfortunate to lose 2-1 at
Crystal Palace
22.01.2012

West Ham United Under-18s lost their first match of 2012, going down to a
2-1 FA Premier Academy League defeat at Crystal Palace on Saturday. The
youth team had enjoyed three straight victories at start the year, beating
Chelsea and Norwich City in the league and Brighton and Hove Albion in the
FA Youth Cup fourth round.
However, Academy Director Tony Carr admitted a poor first-half performance
and a pair of unsuccessful penalty appeals had cost his team dear at the
Oasis Academy. "We had a poor first half and found ourselves 2-0 down from
two set plays," Carr told whufc.com "We were playing in very windy
conditions on a very small pitch and they made life very difficult for us,
to be fair. In the second half, we improved and Kieran Sadlier scored direct
from a corner when the ball caught on the wind. "We then had two penalty
appeals turned down and Pelly Ruddock hit the crossbar. We completely
dominated the second half but could not get the equaliser. A disappointing
first half cost us the game, but we had two great shouts for penalties
turned down - one for a foul on Elliot Lee and the second when Paul McCallum
was in on the goalkeeper and fouled."

Highlights of Saturday's trip to south London will appear on West Ham TV
soon. The Hammers return to action on Saturday, when they welcome Arsenal to
Little Heath for an 11am kick-off. While West Ham's youngsters continue
their quest for an FA Premier Academy League Group A and FA Youth Cup
double, the club's young professionals are continuing their own careers at
their various loan clubs in the npower Football League. Goalkeeper Peter
Kurucz turned out for Rochdale in their 3-0 League One defeat at Wycombe
Wanderers. In League Two, Callum Driver started for Burton Albion in their
1-1 draw at Bradford City, while Ahmed Abdulla, Cristian Montano and
substitute Eoin Wearen were all involved in Dagenham and Redbridge's 4-1
defeat at Crewe Alexandra. Also in League Two, George Moncur chalked up an
assist and a goal as AFC Wimbledon came from 3-1 down to win 4-3 at
Gillingham. In the Championship, Jordan Spence was not involved in Bristol
City's 2-1 home win over Doncaster Rovers.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce happy to sign nobody
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce has revealed that he will be content going into the second
half of the season with his current squad. Allardyce led his West Ham side
to a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon that sent West Ham
to the top of the Championship for the first time this season. But speaking
after the game, he admitted that despite having made a number of bids for
players - eight for fees up to £3.5million, according to co-chiarman David
Sullivan in Saturday's match day programme - he would be prepared to enter
the final, crucial months of the campaign with the same squad he built last
summer (bar the addition of central defender George John). "Time is ticking
by but I'll be comfortable at the end of January if we didn't get anybody,"
he said. "With Matt Taylor and Guy Demel coming back, I still think that
these players will come back and start scoring goals. But if we do get
somebody then that should make us even better than we are now."

Allardyce also revealed that the club were yet to make a firm bid for Nikica
Jelavic, despite reports to the contrary earlier in the week. "We've been
made aware - not through me - by other sources to the co-chairman that he
might be available," he added. "There's only an enquiry there as far as I'm
concerned, to see if he's available - and not so much that we going all out
to bid and try and get him."

That particular deal seems less likely to happen this morning after
Jelavic's father claimed at the weekend that his son was, "more ambitious
than that", adding that the current Glasgow Rangers striker is, "likely to
sign for Liverpool".

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam slammed by former agent
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Disgraced former football agent Peter Harrison has launched a bizarre tirade
of abuse aimed at West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce. Harrison,
communicating via his personal account on social network Twitter has in the
past few days launched a series of attacks aimed at Allardyce that we cannot
possibly repeat here on KUMB.com due to their potentially libellous content.
The former agent recently confirmed that he was in talks with TV producers
with regards to producing a documentary that would expose certain
individuals within the game for underhand financial practices. "It's coming
out in the next couple of months then we can all have a laugh," Harrison
said via his Twitter account, adding later that, "the truth always comes
out".

Harrison and Allardyce have a lengthy history that goes back to 2006 when
the former agent of Andy Carroll and ex-Hammers captain Lucas Neill was
secretly filmed by the BBC's Panorama programme making allegations of
bribery. The former agent is also in dispute with Allardyce over an unpaid
debt of £370,000 that the current West Ham manager claims to have lent
Harrison in 2005. Harrison has also used his Twitter feed to hit out at the
likes of (Bolton chairman) Phil Gartside, Harry Redknapp (in trial today on
tax evasion charges) and fellow agent Mark Curtis, who became James Tomkins'
new agent prior to his award of a lucrative four-year contract last week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Redknapp in the dock
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Former West Ham United manager Harry Redknapp is in court today to face
charges of tax evasion. Redknapp, now 64, is accused of two counts of tax
fraud alongside former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric. It is alleged
that Redknapp, who spent two spells at Portsmouth after he was sacked by
West Ham was the recipient of £93,300 paid into a bank account in Monaco by
Mandaric in at some point between 2002 and 2007. Secondly, he is accused of
receiving a further sum of £96,000 into the same account at some point
between 2004 and 2007. Redknapp, whose hopes of one day managing the English
national team hinge on the outcome of the case has previously denied any
wrongdoing. The former Hammers winger and current Tottenham boss was manager
of West Ham between 1994 to 2001, before he was fired by chairman Terry
Brown. Mandaric, who spent time at Leicester after leaving Portsmouth is
currently chairman of League One Sheffield Wednesday.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jelavic 'favours' Reds switch
Father claims Liverpool are interested in Rangers striker
Last Updated: January 23, 2012 9:58am
SSN

Nikica Jelavic's father has claimed that the Rangers striker has grander
ambitions than to play for West Ham or Queens Park Rangers and is 'most
likely' to sign for Liverpool. The Croatian has been heavily linked with a
move away from Ibrox this winter following a series of impressive
performances in the SPL over the past 18 months. Sam Allardyce confirmed at
the weekend that West Ham had enquired about the availability of Jelavic,
while QPR are also understood to be keeping tabs on his situation. However,
reports have also suggested that Liverpool are interested and the
26-year-old's father says there are several clubs in the running for his
signature.

Great

Philip Jelavic claims Liverpool are one of those clubs and believes his son
could soon be heading to Anfield. "We know about the interest of West Ham
and QPR," Jelavic senior said in The Sun. "But Nikica has five or six clubs
that are interested, including that of the great Liverpool. "As for West Ham
and QPR, Nikica is more ambitious than that. "It's most likely that he'll
sign for Liverpool. "But there are a few days until the end of the window,
so we'll see."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collison - Room for improvement
Midfielder admits Hammers have 'another couple of gears to find'
Last Updated: January 23, 2012 10:10am
SSN

West Ham midfielder Jack Collison admits the Hammers are yet to hit their
best form despite going top of the Championship at the weekend. The East
Londoners leapfrogged Southampton at the summit after seeing off Nottingham
Forest 2-1 thanks to two Mark Noble penalties. Collison feels there is still
room for improvement in the Hammers' performances but is confident
everything will come together as they push for promotion. He told The Sun:
"We're at the top and have another couple of gears to find. "It's
frightening and sends out a message to other teams to say, 'We're there,
we're not playing great but we're getting the results'.

Frustrating

"When it all comes together it's going to be great for us. We don't go out
and try not to put five goals in, we go and do our best. "Last season, I was
out injured, so I know how it feels to be a fan. It's frustrating for them
at times but it's also for us as players." Collison hailed team-mate Noble
after he coolly slotted two spot-kicks home. He added: "We came in at
half-time a bit disappointed with how we played but it was good that we've
big players like Noble. "It takes bottle to step up and stick away penalties
like that."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Monday 23rd Transfer Update + Gossip
January 23rd, 2012 - 6:10 pm by Bradley Palmer
West Ham Till I Die

UPDATE: I am being told that Rangers are satisfied with our offer for
striker Jelavic. We await official confirmation that bid has been accepted
and I will give full details of bid as and when I know. Ohh and 2-0 to
Leicester. Lets hope its more of the same in the second half.

Apologies for not posting updates over the weekend. I have been busy with
work and what not but here is the latest update from myself and across the
net. Feel free to follow me on twitter: bradley_whufc… I am constantly on
there giving updates from the info I am sent. I would firstly like to say
that I can fully understand and respect everyone's opinion of the news I am
receiving but would just like to state that at no stage is my information
made up just to get people's hopes up. Some prefer to believe it when they
see it, others get excited and follow updates throughout each day. I am only
giving information that I am sent, which is often highly reliable. Yes, some
of it will be far fetched but it is often very accurate. I was informed
about Nolan joining very early on before he did and did not fully believe it
until it happened. Others like Ilan, Reid and Barrera I have often mentioned
early doors as they seemed more likely. All I am doing is giving out
information I am told along with what is on the net to keep everyone fully
up to date.

Anyway here it is: I have been made aware at midday today that a bid has
been submitted for Jelavic after long discussions on availability over the
weekend and would just like to clear up the situation for you all. Rangers
are in serious trouble and are close to administration and need to sell
their players this window to prevent this from happening. The story today of
Jelavic's "alleged" dad was completely false and Liverpool have today
distanced themselves away from any deal. It is thought it was a publicity
act to gain a wider range of interest. However, I have been made fully aware
that it is only West Ham that have shown an interest and enquired about his
availability. After long discussions, a bid today has gone in for the player
who in fact I'm led to believe is keen to join us as an ex player of ours,
Bilic, has highly recommended him to join us stating that it would be a big
step in the right direction for his career. If the bid is accepted, as we
are currently awaiting an answer, then and only then will the player travel
to East London to have a medical, hold talks and discuss personal terms
despite Sky saying there were issues with his wages. Jelavic is currently on
approximately £15k a week at Rangers and it is thought that we will be able
to match and improve on this amount for him to sign. Am also awaiting to see
if Piq or Sears are involved in the bid that has been made today. Hope that
clears it up.

Secondly, I have confirmation that an offer of £3m has been sent to the
office at Nottingham Forest for playmaker Lewis McGugan. It is thought that
he impressed Big Sam on Saturday after a great showing and a wonder goal
which has led the owners into making an offer for his services this
afternoon. It is also thought that Nottingham Forest are tempted to sell due
to their financial state and need of funds to buy in other areas. Keep a
look out for this one.

The bidding war for Watford striker/winger Sordell seems to have forced West
Ham into looking elsewhere (McGugan), though they are still trying to lure
Watford into selling their prized asset to us. Only time will tell on this
one.

With regards to outgoings, not much is going on. We are hoping to sell both
Piquionne and Sears, though both are refusing to leave at this moment in
time.

As always, any news I will update as soon as I can. Many thanks,

Bradley Palmer (Braderz)

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West Ham line up move for Portuguese winger Costa and Forest's McGugan
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 10:21 PM on 23rd January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham are in talks with Nacional winger Edgar Costa, 24. The former
Portugal Under 19 international is available on loan with a view to a
permanent deal.
West Ham are also weighing up a move for Nottingham Forest star Lewis
McGugan. Barnsley are lining up a loan move for Stoke midfielder Michael
Tonge.

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Allardyce has 'no problem' with West Ham stars playing in Olympics
By talkSPORT
Monday, January 23, 2012
TalkkSport

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce insists he will not stand in the way of James
Tomkins, Mark Noble or Jack Collison if they get called up to play for Great
Britain in the Olympic Games. All three players have been asked if they want
to be considered for the squad and they have signalled their desire to
represent Team GB at the prestigious event. West Ham are gunning for
promotion straight back into the Premier League and Allardyce would be
reluctant to lose three of his key players in the build-up to the new
season. The tournament takes place between July 16 and August 11, but
Allardyce knows it is a once in a lifetime opportunity for any player to
participate at the Olympic Games and he will never stop them taking part.
Allardyce said: "I don't have a problem at all. I think it's a great honour
to be selected as an Olympian and it's still one of the biggest if not the
biggest sporting event in the world. "To be able to take part in it and the
fact that you may win a gold, silver or a bronze - it's something you can't
refuse a player. "It's similar to your best players playing in the European
Championships - just a bit later. They can get their rest in before and you
can give them a rest at the back end of your pre-season because you're
hoping they will go all the way. "So while it's an inconvenience its
something that as a manager you have to make sure you cope with. Players
here are a stones throw away from where the Olympic Park is so imagine what
their friends and family will be like."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 23rd January 2012

2012-01-23T07:01:00.001Z

Ernie Gregory 1921-2012
WHUFC.com
Legendary West Ham United goalkeeper Ernie Gregory has passed away at the
age of 90
21.01.2012

West Ham United would like to express their sincere condolences to the
family of Ernie Gregory - the legendary Hammers goalkeeper and coach who has
passed away at the age of 90. Gregory was quite simply one of the finest
servants the club has ever known, playing for the first team for 20 years
before embarking on a coaching career that only ended with his retirement in
May 1987 at the age of 65. In all, his association with West Ham totalled an
amazing 51 years. Even in retirement, Gregory was a regular visitor to
Chadwell Heath, where he passed on his immense experience to the club's
young players and coaching staff. He will be sorely missed by everybody
connected with the club. Joint-Chairman David Gold remembers watching
Gregory in action during his own time as a schoolboy player in the 1940s.
"I'm really saddened to hear about the death of Ernie Gregory, who was one
of the all-time great servants of West Ham United. I remember watching him
as a ten or eleven year-old boy and he became my goalkeeping hero growing
up. He represented us for 20 years as a player and a further 30 years as a
coach, which is something that is almost unheard of in today's game. "On
behalf of all of us at West Ham United I would like to send my condolences
to those closest to Ernie and assure them that our thoughts are with them at
this sad time."

Academy Director Tony Carr worked alongside Gregory for more than a decade.
"I worked with Ernie for a long time and it is sad news to hear of his
passing. He was a magnificent servant to the club for more than 50 years as
a player and coach. "He was always someone you could talk to about the game
and he will be missed."

Born in Stratford on 10 November 1921, Gregory played for West Ham Boys and
was noticed by manager Charlie Paynter while playing in an English Trophy
Final against Preston North End at Upton Park, joining the club in 1936.
After spending time with Leytonstone as an amateur player, winning the
Isthmian League in 1938, Gregory made his first Hammers appearance for the
'A' team in 1938. While serving with the Essex Regiment and the Royal Air
Force during World War II, Gregory made more than 50 war-time appearances
for the club before making his Football League debut in a 4-1 home win over
Plymouth Argyle on 28 December 1946. In all, Gregory played for West Ham for
two decades, making a total of 481 appearances. He was an ever-present
during the 1947/48, 1949/50 and 1952/53 seasons and also totalled 37 league
appearances during the Division Two title-winning season of 1957/58.

Gregory's goalkeeping prowess also saw him produce an outstanding England B
performance against France in 1952. After hanging up his gloves in 1959, he
was awarded a testimonial game the following year against LD Alajuelense of
Costa Rica The loyal east Londoner stayed with the club and went on to coach
the reserves and later the first team. He finally retired in May 1987 after
a 51-year association with the Irons.

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Goodbye - and good luck
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

KUMB.com would like to wish West Ham United's former Head of Media, Greg
Demetriou, the very best of luck in his new role. Demetriou, who was at West
Ham for several years prior to leaving the club last week is set to embark
on a new role as the Head of Corporate Communications for the Football
Association, where part of his remit will be to work alongside former Hammer
Sir Trevor Brooking.

A loyal and long-term West Ham supporter who was a season ticket holder
prior to landing his job at the Boleyn Ground, Demetriou was always on hand
to help out fans with their many and varied requests - yet reticent to be
recognised for going above and beyond the call of duty, which he often did.

KUMB.com's co-editor, Gordon Thrower said: "Over the years Greg has dealt
with us at KUMB with patience and good humour without once letting on that
we were driving him up the wall. "I just hope that the unplanned ice bath (a
farewell present from the players) on Saturday didn't ruin his suit too
much! "

Sam Allardyce - who has worked with Demetriou on a daily basis since
arriving at West Ham last summer and was party to the aforementioned dousing
- added: "We're sad to lose him but he has decided to go and work for the
F.A - so good luck to him."

The FA's Adrian Bevington said: "We're delighted Greg will be joining us. He
brings excellent football and media experience to the Communications
Division."

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Ernie Gregory: goodbye to a legend
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

KUMB.com is saddened to learn of the passing of former player and coach,
Ernie Gregory. Gregory, who was 90, passed away in hospital close to the
nursing home in Essex where he spent the last months of his life, this
weekend. Ernie joined West Ham United's ground staff in 1936, two years
before signing as a player in 1938.
However he was forced to wait another seven years, due to the onset of World
War II, before becoming a regular between the sticks - a position he held
until 1960, when he called time on his career following the Irons'
long-awaited return to (the old) Division One. During that period, which
spanned four decades, Gregory made 408 league and cup appearances for the
club - a goalkeeping record that was only superseded in the late 1980s by
Phil Parkes (who went on to make 436 appearances). His sole international
appearance was for an England 'B' side in a 1952 friendly against France.
Following his playing retirement at the age of 39, Gregory took up coaching
and became involved with both the reserves and first team before taking up
an admin role at West Ham. He eventually retired at the age of 66, having
given an incredible 51 years' service to the club, in 1987. Despite having
retired, Gregory remained a regular visitor at the Chadwell Heath training
ground for many years after. He regularly popped in to chat with Academy
director Tony Carr and other club staff until he was taken ill in 2010.
After suffered a stroke at his Goodmayes home, Gregory spent time recovering
at a rest home in Dagenham before moving to his most recent home in
Basildon.

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James Tomkins and the ginger Harry Secombe
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

On Saturday afternoon, prior to West Ham United's 2-1 nPower Championship
win over Nottingham Forest that took Sam Allardyce's side to the top of the
table for the first time this season, it was confirmed that James Tomkins
had signed a lucrative four-year contract with an option for a further year.

The young centre half, a home-grown player who graduated from Tony Carr's
world-famous Academy before becoming one of the club's most valuable assets,
was the beneficiary of a new deal estimated to be worth around £7million
over the course of those four years. Good news all round, it seems.

However the circumstances surrounding Tomkins' new deal - and a contract
that catapults the former England under-21 from being one of the first team
squad's lowest-paid members to one of its highest - raises questions over
the increasing influence of one particular football agent at the club.

Until recently Tomkins was represented by a local football agent called Tony
Giess who, along with Kevin Giess runs Skillequal Ltd, a Gidea Park-based
agency. Their client list includes players such as Lee Bowyer, Joe Cole,
Michael Carrick and current Hammers favourite Mark Noble.

However KUMB.com has learned that prior to the start of the January transfer
window and the award of his new contract, Tomkins dropped Giess and
Skillequal in favour of alternative representation - an agent called Mark
Curtis.

Curtis, a FIFA-accredited agent has been a business associate of Sam
Allardyce, the current manager of West Ham United, for a number of years.

He is also the agent of current West Ham captain Kevin Nolan, who signed an
even more lucrative (five-year) contract at the Boleyn Ground last summer
when moving from Newcastle United - one of the clubs strongly linked with
Tomkins prior to him penning his new deal last week.

However Curtis' past is one that is steeped in controversy - a past that
involves FA fines, FIFA investigations and charges of improper behaviour.

Curtis' charge sheet extends back to 1999, when he was the subject of a
Premier League enquiry that investigated the sale of Jermaine Pennant to
Arsenal from Notts County. Pennant, who was on the books of Sky Andrew at
the time was sold to the north London club on the recommendation of Curtis -
who denied knowing that Andrew was the player's representative. Curtis was
subsequently fined £7,500 by the FA for improper conduct.

In 2004 he was under investigation - this time by FIFA - for his role in the
transfer of Robert Earnshaw from Cardiff City to West Bromwich Albion. Then,
in 2007, he was one of six agents charged by the FA for breaching rules on
the disclosure of payments in relation to transfers arranged for Luton Town.

Later, in 2010, he was accused by fellow agent Peter Harrison of unlawfully
brokering Andy Carroll's final contract at Newcastle - another
highly-lucrative five-year deal. Harrison claimed that Carroll, a close
friend of Kevin Nolan's who Harrison had represented since the age of 16 was
contracted to him until March 2011, although an FA Tribunal failed to uphold
his complaint in February of last year.

Harrison was therefore not involved in Carroll's record-breaking £35million
move to Liverpool a year ago this month. The English international was
instead represented by a solicitor, whilst Liverpool - whose Sporting
Director Damien Comolli usually dealt with transfers - were also represented
by a third party.

That third party was David Bromley, another FIFA-accredited and
FA-authorised football agent who is listed at fifa.com as the owner of a
company called Centurion Sports Management Limited, who are based in
Sevenoaks. Bromley and Curtis are long term business associates; both were
previously named as directors of the now defunct companies Property Hunter
and Sports Player Management.

According to mannyroad.com, a website run by Bolton Wanderers supporters who
have extensively investigated the agent's dealings in the past, "Curtis and
controversy are never far apart. Suffice to say that he has the uncanny
knack of being on hand when a player on the move dumps his agent, leaving
him or one of his associates to act on behalf of the buying club, thus
obtaining a hefty commission."

This is exactly what happened, according to the website, when Jlloyd Samuel
- who was on trial at West Ham earlier this season - moved to Bolton from
Aston Villa on a free transfer in 2007. Samuel's representatives prior to
the move were a company called Base Soccer who number Tottenham players Tom
Huddlestone and Aaron Lennon - plus former Hammer Bobby Zamora - amongst
their clientele.

"A couple of days before Bolton did his [the agent's] deal, he got a call
from Mark Curtis to say, "let me do the deal" – because he'll get more
commission from Bolton," fellow football agent, Tony McGill, told
mannyroad.com. "So this other agency allowed Mark Curtis to do the deal on
behalf of Bolton Wanderers for Jlloyd Samuel because [Phil] Gartside [the
chairman of Bolton Wanderers] was paying him a bigger commission - and
that's fact."

The website claims that Curtis - who they refer to as 'the Ginger Harry
Secombe' - was also involved in the transfer that took Radhi Jaidi from
Birmingham to Bolton when Jesse Learoyd-Hill, Jaidi's agent at the time
found himself similarly cut out of the deal. Curtis later protested his
innocence, stating that, "he [Jaidi] said he didn't want to take him
[Learoyd-Hill] along. If he had wanted to be represented by him he would
have brought him along."

According to Peter Harrison - who, for the reasons previously mentioned has
a fairly large axe to grind (and has been at odds with Curtis since a 2006
Panorama documentary secretly filmed Harrison alleging that he made secret
payments to Craig Allardyce, then an employee of Curtis' firm Sports Player
Management) - Curtis was, "more or less chairman" at Bolton during Sam
Allardyce's reign as manager: the inference being that Curtis had control of
the club's transfer policy.

Curtis' stealth-like arrival at West Ham - he is mentioned nowhere on the
club's website at whufc.com - is therefore likely to be of great interest to
supporters concerned about the influence of preferred football agents at the
club.

Co-chairman David Sullivan was extensively criticised last season for his
insistence on dealing regularly with the greyhound-loving Barry Silkman, who
played a key role in bringing players such as Thomas Hitzlsperger and Demba
Ba to the Boleyn Ground.

With James Tomkins already on board and sorted out with a new, lucrative
contract, the question is this: could some of West Ham's fellow young stars
be tempted to follow suit and sign up with Curtis? And could Tomkins' former
representatives, the Gidea Park-based Skillequal now look to cash in on Mark
Noble, to avoid the possibility of losing him to Curtis' clutches too?

Sadly, nobody from Skillequal was willing to talk with KUMB.com about the
Tomkins situation on either occasion that we contacted them. However we
would still very much like to hear what they have to say about the
situation, should they change their minds.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ernie Gregory remembered
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd January 2012
By: Paul Walker

They really don't make them like Ernie Gregory any more. Gone are the days
when a man stays with his first club for over 50 years. My euphoria at the
current squad finally getting to the Championship summit this weekend was
wrecked by the sad news of Ernie's passing. He was the first goalkeeper I
knew as a boy watching the Irons in the late '50s and early '60s, and there
is a serious discussion to be had as to whether he was the greatest servant
ever to turn out for the club, despite the glory and honours achieved by the
Moore, Hurst, Peters era. The next time we are all assembled at the Boleyn,
and that's for the Millwall game, I pray the club have mark the passing of a
great servant properly, and that our 'friends' from across the water can
manage to take part in a fitting memorial. I'm sure they will.
It is also good that we have as owners now two men who remember the great
days of our past and the players that made it possible. David Gold has
already expressed his sympathies, I'm sure David Sullivan feels the same.

Articles elsewhere have recorded his history with the club, quite amazing.
For me, I can only recall standing next to my dad and him telling me Ernie
was the best goalkeeper he'd ever seen. He was part of the side that took
us back into the top flight in 1958, and had a genuine impact on young men
coming through the ranks for many years after. I was amazed to read a few
years back when Ernie was taken ill, that he did not believe people would
remember him. The deluge of good wishes that followed hopefully made him
realise just how much he was held in our affections. RIP Ernie. There are
very few left now of that '50s side, and you will always stay in my memory
and I'm sure many thousands of others.

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More Clungetastic Gossip on the Transfer Front
January 22nd, 2012 - 5:34 pm by Iain Dale
West Ham Online

In her Sun column yesterday, Karren Brady alluded to two West Ham players
who had refused to move to other clubs because of the amount of money they
were earning at West Ham. Adzman89 has just cleared up the identity of one
of them in one his reports from his club insider, Clunge. Apparently Freddie
Piquionne refused to move to Wolves as it would have entailed a pay cut from
£38k a week to £25k a week. That just about sums up all you need to know
about the lazy good for nothing.

Clunge also reports that both Rob Green and Julien Faubert are refusing to
sign new contracts because they want to leave on free transfers in the
summer when their current contracts are up. That's not the first time it's
been reported, but after James Tonkins yesterday signing a four year deal,
it is very disappointing. If this really is the case, then I'd put them on
the market now and try to offload them over the next week. That may sound
like madness, as they have been two of our best players this season, but the
club shouldn't be held to ransom like this by players who ought to know
better. I am really disappointed in Rob Green. Yes, I know he hasn't been
happy at his treatment and the fact that his pay doesn't equal others, but
if he was going to find a better club, it would have happened last summer.
And it didn't.

Clunge also reports that Freddie Sears has been offered to Bournemouth on
loan, but they weren't interested. Matt Taylor will be back for Ipswich and
Papa Bouba Diop should also have recovered by then. He also thinks that Guy
Demel is 2 to 3 weeks away from fitness. Negotiations are ongoing with
Robert Hall for a new long term deal and Sam will reportedly have £35
million made available to him if we win promotion. He's got £10 million to
play with over the next ten days.

Slaven Bilic has apparently recommended West Ham to Jelavic and he is keen
to join. West Ham are trying to send Piquionne in the other direction. One
can but hope.
Well, enough for you to debate there!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New deal for JT
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 21st January 2012
By: Staff Writer

James Tomkins has signed a new contract with West Ham that keeps him tied to
the club until 2016. The popular central defender, who recently changed
agents has committed himself to the club until 2016, with an option for a
further year included. News of Tomkins' new deal, whilst unofficially
revealed on the KUMB.com forums on Friday, was announced ahead of this
afternoon's 2-1 win against Nottingham Forest in which the 21-year-old
played a starring role. "I'm really pleased that I've signed a new contract
at the club," he told whufc.com. "It's nice to end the speculation about
what people have been saying in the papers and commit my future to the club
and concentrate on my football. "By signing this deal, I'm showing my
commitment to the club as they've been brilliant to me this year with all
the support they have given to me and the rest of the players. If they
continue doing that then together we can return the club back to the Premier
League, where we believe we belong. "Sam Allardyce has been brilliant this
year as well and has shown what he can do on and off the pitch as a
motivational manager."

Tomkins, who was formerly represented by football agency Skillequal recently
became part of the Mark Curtis stable. Curtis, who also represents Kevin
Nolan, has been a close associate of Sam Allardyce's since he was manager of
Bolton.

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Allardyce on... Nottingham Forest
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Big Sam reflects on a win that takes his West Ham United side to the top of
the Championship for the first time this season...

Sam: Not a lot of chances in the first half but once again Mark Noble, ever
reliable, from the penalty spot?

Yes - and I think quite a fortunate penalty that we got too. But you've got
to be fully professional and dispose of it when you get the opportunity. It
settled us down a bit because we all know it wasn't our best of days today.

When you can dig one out, like we've done today, when it's not your best day
and you're not on your best form it shows the resilience and the commitment
of the players. All good teams at the top have to win a game when they don't
play at their best - and we've done that today.

We're disappointed in our performance but we're delighted that we've won
another very valuable three points. Of course it brings us three wins on the
trot again and we're back on a winning streak, as it were. Lots more players
are coming back from injury who are available for selection and it's ten
days before we play our next game now so it's important that we did win this
one.

As hard as we made it for ourselves we won it, tomorrow it's three points.
When we look at the table we're three points ahead of Southampton which is
what we wanted to be at the end of today's game. We haven't done it how we
wanted to, but we've done it.

You did create quite a few chances in the second half?

We did in the second half - but so did Forest. It's clear what their
problems are; the team can create chances but they just can't finish in the
games that they've played recently. I saw them have two super chances on
Tuesday against Leicester, one at 1-0 and one when they were 2-0 down. They
missed both of them and they missed some good chances today.

So perhaps we were slightly fortunate playing a team like Forest who have
struggled to finish chances when created.

In the end we've got a very valuable three points that takes us to the top
of the league for the first time. Like I said, it's ten days before the next
game and we'll keep searching for somebody new if we can, but I'm really
pleased that your Matt Taylors are back and Guy Demel will be back. Bit of
an injury to Papa [Bouba Diop] today, a bit of a thigh, but there's ten days
for him to recover.

We saw Robert Hall come on for 20 minutes or so; we saw him at Sheffield
Wednesday so we know we've got a good young player in our midst with plenty
of ability. I hope we can develop him as well as Pottsy - and [it's] great
that Tonks has decided to sign a new contract with us. He's been really good
for us and really consistent this season.

Has there been a bid for [Nikica] Jelavic?

I don't know. We've enquired in terms of what his availability is as far as
I'm concerned but in terms of bidding, it's not my department.

We hear there was a big incident in the dressing room; we hear Greg
[Demetriou]* might have got a bit wet today?

He did get a bit wet; he went into the ice bath as a farewell present from
the lads! Along with a very funny video which I'm sure he'll cherish for the
rest of his life when we give it to him.

We're sad to lose him but he has decided to go and work for the F.A. - so
good luck to him.

* Greg Demetriou - referred to in yesterday's programme as the 'Second in
Command' - was West Ham United's Head of Media.

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Cotterill on... West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 22nd January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Steve Cotterill unsurprisingly felt that his struggling Nottingham Forest
side were hard done by at the Boleyn...

Steve: you must have been gutted at half time: a). the penalty and b). the
chances you had in the first half?

That probably sums up how it's been a little bit since I've been here. We
have had those chances, we haven't stuck them away. We could have been two
or three up by the time the penalty had been given - or the alleged penalty
anyway.

Penalty decisions... It's not a penalty is it; it's blatantly not a penalty.
The second one, I can see perhaps why he's given the second one because
[Chris] Gunter's arm is up. But the ball doesn't deviate.

I've just watched the pair of them just before I've come in here, because
I'd like to think that most of the time I'm honest about my opinion on
things. The first one isn't a penalty and the second one must have hit the
hairs on his arm! The linesman's done well to see that one, for sure.

But you had chances to win the game anyway?

We're not going to take every chance, are we? We haven't been prolific all
season, we're not all of a sudden going to tap someone on the shoulder and
make them a 20-goal-a-season striker.

Today was better for us; we had round pegs in round holes. The last two
games we've had we've been poor but this [today] was what it was like
beforehand. Since December 10th we've had no centre backs. Since December
10th.

We've had [Joel] Lynch injured, [Luke] Chambers suspended, Wes Morgan out
for two months and [Brendan] Maloney's done his knee ligaments. We had Greg
Cunningham out the other week with a hamstring; today he has to come off
after 20 minutes with a bit of a hamstring.

All of a sudden there you're taking arguably your most energetic midfield
player out of the core of the battle, in Guy Mousse, and you're putting him
back in central defence. It just doesn't stack up that, you know. That's on
top of losing Chris Cohen; if Guy Mousse's our most energetic midfield
player he only is because Chris Cohen's out for the year.

So we've just got to get through this year, really.

Despite the result, there were some good things going forward?

For sure. The last two games we had a lot to sort out and after today's
performance we keep our lads fit and we can start putting people in their
rightful positions and that will in turn give us a better performance.

It won't necessarily make us free-scoring all of a sudden but it'll
certainly give us a better platform from which to build, anyway.

You said you've just got to get through this year, this season.

Yeah.

Have you seen any evidence that you can?

I think we need to strengthen in a couple of areas. Whether we can do that
or not, I don't quite know the answer. It'll be about being reactive as
opposed to being proactive but I've said that to everyone since December,
before the January {transfer] window opened.

I know you can't take every chance that comes but you had some today?

How many times have you seen us [this season]?

I've seen you a couple of times.

Yeah. Then you would have seen a few more of them, wouldn't you?

Yes.

That's what happens. They don't come any better than six yards out. We've
just got to be positive and keep getting them in there. We've got to keep
getting balls whizzing across people's boxes.

There was a great move for us over on the far side and [Paul] Anderson
doesn't quite make contact at the end. We can't work any harder; we are
trying to do what we're trying to do. You can only do so much in training
and we're doing that all the time, every week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Round-Up: Allardyce keeps feet on ground after Hammers hit the heights
JACK PITT-BROOKE, MICHAEL BUTLER MONDAY 23 JANUARY 2012
The Independent

Sam Allardyce was pleased to see his West Ham United go to the top of the
Championship on Saturday, although the performance provided little grounds
for triumphalism. West Ham needed two generous penalty decisions, after both
of which Mark Noble scored, to overcome Nottingham Forest 2-1 at a rather
unimpressed Boleyn Ground. "I think the players looked a bit nervous,
personally," Allardyce said afterwards. "The fans get anxious and then we
get a little bit more anxious and then passes went astray. It wasn't our
usual fluent performance that we've shown at home."

Before the first penalty decision, which came in first-half stoppage time,
West Ham had barely threatened Lee Camp's goal. Forest had been playing the
better football, and Lewis McGugan, who scored a late consolation goal, and
Marcus Tudgay had missed chances better than anything West Ham created.
"That has been typical of us," said Forest's manager, Steve Cotterill. "We
haven't had a lot of luck, we haven't taken a chance. But our performances
haven't warranted where we are in the league."

Allardyce was in no mood for crowing, knowing that Southampton can overtake
them at the top when they play Leicester City this evening. "It's one of
those days when we've overcome the nerves and we've got the victory," he
said. "We're top of the league for the first time, after 27 games. We might
not stay there that long, but we've shown we can get there."

Indeed, only a win for Southampton over Leicester tonight will return them
to the top, with their manager, Nigel Adkins, "relishing" the battle for
promotion. "As you get closer to the winning line the expectation levels
grow," he said. "I have high confidence about ourselves because our focus,
desire is to win this division." Both Southampton and Leicester look set to
hand debuts to their January signings, with loanee Yago Falque set to start
for the Saints and Danny Drinkwater making a permanent switch to Leicester
from Manchester United. Leicester have won just once in the league since
November, but will be buoyed by Southampton's top scorer Rickie Lambert
serving the final game of his three-match ban.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United defender James Tomkins signs new deal as club reach
Championship summit
By Arindam Rej at Upton Park8:20PM GMT 22 Jan 2012

James Tomkins says he turned down a move to the Premier League because he is
confident West Ham will be promoted this season, and added that the pressure
is back on Southampton now that they have been overtaken. Southampton, who
host on Monday night, are down to second place after West Ham leapfrogged
them to the top spot for the first time this season. The buoyant east London
club are looking to conclude the signing of Rangers' prolific Nikica Jelavic
but the extension of centre-back Tomkins' contract until summer 2016 – in
the face of interest from Newcastle and Tottenham – is a key deal. "It is a
compliment really when Premier League teams are interested in you," said
Tomkins, who, fittingly, was playing his 100th game for the club and was man
of the match against a Nottingham Forest side who dominated long spells but
could not turn pressure into goals. "I was just gaining confidence from that
but I was always committed to West Ham. I am confident of getting into the
Premier League this season with West Ham." Discussing the league table, he
added: "Now the pressure is back on Southampton."
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said: "For us, it's important
psychologically. It might only be a short time that we're top because
Southampton have a fantastic home record." Contentious handball decisions
against Guy Moussi and Chris Gunter allowed Mark Noble to score West Ham's
two penalties. Lewis McGugan's late, long-range strike came too late as
Forest's alarming slide continued. The Forest camp denied stories that there
had been a fight in the dressing room after their midweek defeat against
Leicester. Striker Dexter Blackstock said: "If you lose a game then everyone
is angry. I didn't feel any punches. Just people want to win and that is the
bottom line. The squad is desperate to get out of this situation."

Match details
West Ham (4-4-2): Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Reid, McCartney; Diop (Lansbury
44), Noble, Collison, Nolan; Cole (Piquionne 86), Baldock (Hall 79).
Subs: Carew, Faye.
Booked: Cole.

Nottingham Forest (4-4-2): Camp; Gunter, Morgan, Lynch, Cunningham (Anderson
23); McCleary, Moussi, Greening (Blackstock 55), McGugan; Tudgay, Harewood
(Miller 72).
Subs: Darlow, Reid.
Referee: Tony Bates (Staffordshire).

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 22nd January 2012

2012-01-22T10:43:00.001Z

Big Sam happy with Forest points
WHUFC.com
The manager was in positive mood after watching his team go top of the
npower Championship table
21.01.2012

Sam Allardyce was all smiles after watching his West Ham United team go top
of the npower Championship table for the first time this season. Mark Noble
converted two penalties - his fifth and sixth successful spot-kicks of the
campaign - as the Hammers beat Nottingham Forest 2-1 at the Boleyn Ground.
Big Sam was happy to see his side pick up their third successive league
victory, despite the manager admitting they had not played their best
football in overcoming the struggling Reds.
"For me, I think the first penalty was quite fortunate," said the manager.
"We got two penalties and we've got to be professional to dispose of the
opposition when we get the opportunity and I think they just settled us down
a bit. "It wasn't our best of games today and when you can drag one out when
you're not on your best day and not on your best form it shows the
resilience and the commitment of the players. All good teams at the top have
to win a game when they don't play at their best and we've done that today.
"We're disappointed in our performance but we are very delighted that we won
another very valuable three points. Of course it brings us three wins on the
trot again and we're back on a winning streak, as it were."

Big Sam was also delighted with the news that the ever-impressive James
Tomkins has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until at
least 2016. The Basildon-born defender put pen to paper on the deal ahead of
the game, with the news relayed to the Boleyn Ground ahead of kick-off "It's
great that James Tomkins has decided to sign a new contract with us and he's
been really good for us and really consistent this season."

While Southampton will have the chance to knock the Hammers of their perch
when they host Leicester City on Monday evening, BIg Sam insisted that
everything at the club is pointing in the right direction. "More players are
coming back from injuries and being available for selection and it's ten
days before we play our next game now so I think it was important that we
did win this one. As hard as we made it for ourselves, we have won it.
"Tomorrow it's three points when we look at the table and we're three points
ahead of Southampton and we're where we wanted to be at the end of today's
game. We haven't done it how we wanted to but we've done it."

While the first half was largely disappointing, Noble's added-time penalty
aside, the second half was a more enjoyable 45 minutes for West Ham's
players, management and supporters. When Noble slotted home his second
spot-kick on 63 minutes, the home team visibly relaxed and began to knock
the ball around in confident fashion. Indeed, Jack Collison missed two
presentable chances and Henri Lansbury saw a rasping half-volley turned over
the crossbar by Lee Camp. Forest winger Lewis McGugan did net a 30-yard
special in the dying seconds, but it was nothing more than a consolation for
Steve Cotterill's men. "We created more chances in the second half but so
did Forest," admitted Big Sam. "It's clear that their problem is the fact
that their team can create chances but they just can't finish them. "They
had two super, super chances on Tuesday against Leicester [in a 4-0 FA Cup
defeat] and they missed both of them and again they missed good chances
today so perhaps we're slightly fortunate playing a team like Forest who
have struggled to finish chances when created. "In the end we've gotten a
very, very valuable three points which takes us to the top of the league for
the first time."

With his team now out of action until they travel to Ipswich Town on 31
January, the manager said he would be working the transfer market to try to
add reinforcements. At the same time, he hopes a number of injured players
will be ready to feature at Portman Road. "It is ten days before our next
game and we'll keep searching for new players if we can but we've now got
Matt Taylor back and Guy Demel is coming back. Papa Bouba Diop picked up a
thigh injury today but there's ten days so he can recover. "Robert Hall came
on for 20 minutes or so and we saw him at Sheffield Wednesday so we know
we've got a good young player in our midst with plenty of ability so we can
develop him as well as Dan Potts."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins signs new deal
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins has put pen to paper on a new long-term contract with West Ham
United
21.01.2012

West Ham United are delighted to announce that James Tomkins has signed a
new long-term contract with the club. The 22-year-old centre-back has
pledged his future to the club by putting pen to paper on a deal that will
see him remain at the Boleyn Ground until summer 2016, with the club having
an option to extend the contract for a further year. Tomkins has been in
outstanding form all season as the Hammers strive for promotion from the
npower Championship. West Ham have kept eleven clean sheets in the 24
matches the Essex-born defender has appeared in this term. The No5 had
double cause to celebrate as Saturday's match with Nottingham Forest marked
his 100th senior appearance for the club. He joined the Hammers at the age
of seven and, despite some recent inaccurate media reports, he has never
been happier. "I'm really pleased that I've signed a new contract at the
club," he said. "It's nice to end the speculation about what people have
been saying in the papers and commit my future to the club and concentrate
on my football. "By signing this deal, I'm showing my commitment to the club
as they've been brilliant to me this year with all the support they have
given to me and the rest of the players. If they continue doing that then
together we can return the club back to the Premier League, where we believe
we belong. "Sam Allardyce has been brilliant this year as well and has shown
what he can do on and off the pitch as a motivational manager."

Tomkins joined West Ham from local club Holy Cross as a boy, signing
scholarship forms at the age of 16 before graduating from the Academy of
Football in 2007.
The young defender made his first-team debut in a 1-1 Premier League draw at
Everton on 22 March 2008 and scored his first Hammers goal in a 2-0 win over
Sunderland on 5 May 2009. Later the same month, he signed a new contract.
Tomkins has become a first-team regular over the past two seasons, making
more than 25 appearances in each Premier League campaign. This term, the
Basildon-born star has excelled under new manager Sam Allardyce, catching
the eye with his strong and intelligent defensive play and ability to carry
the ball out from the back. A favourite among Hammers supporters, he has
also been recognised at international level. Having been capped by England
at every age-group level and appeared at two UEFA European Under-21
Championship finals, Tomkins is now targeting his first senior call-up and
has been named in Team GB's provisional squad for London 2012.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dylan grateful for huge support
WHUFC.com
Dylan Tombides has thanked fans as he continues his medical treatment
21.01.2012

Dylan Tombides has thanked West Ham United fans for their support as he
continues his treatment after being diagnosed with testicular cancer. The
young Hammer is preparing to undergo Retroperitoneal lymphnode dissection
(RPLND) surgery this week. The procedure will see specialist doctors remove
lymph nodes from his abdomen which may contain cells that could become
cancerous in the future. The first-team squad were keen to show their
support for Tombides as he prepares for the surgery by wearing special 'Get
well soon Dylan' T-shirts ahead of the game wth Nottingham Forest. The
Australia Under-17 international said he was hugely grateful for that
support and the hundreds of messages he has received from fans, both of West
Ham and of other clubs around the world. "When I first read about the
surgery on the internet, it looked very complicated, but when I spoke to my
surgeon, he drew a diagram of what he is going to do and it looked a lot
simpler," said the 17-year-old. "Basically, it is removing all of the lymph
nodes and scar tissue from around the stomach area. The lymph nodes absorb
toxins and because I have had testicular cancer, cancerous cells can attach
themselves to the lymph nodes and be spread from there."

When the popular forward posted an update on his treatment on social
networking website Facebook earlier this week, more than 400 fans wished him
well. "I put a message on Facebook and then I went to bed. When I woke up
the next morning, I had hundreds of messages of support and they mean so
much to me. I want to thank everyone for wishing me well. "People had
started messaging me on Facebook asking how I was, but until this week I
have had nothing to report. I am so grateful for all the messages, because
they mean so much to me."

After his surgery, Tombides will have to rest up for a period of weeks
before he is given the all-clear to resume light training and other
strenuous activities - including his driving lessons. "It all depends how
quickly I heal and feel better, but my Dad read on the internet about a guy
who had the same surgery and was surfing again within six weeks! "I won't be
rushing back, but I am looking forward to getting back to doing what I enjoy
most, which is playing football. "I am also going to have to delay my
driving test for a few weeks, but the lessons are going well so hopefully
I'll be on the road soon, too."

Tombides was back at the Boleyn Ground earlier this month to cheer his U18
team-mates to FA Youth Cup victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. "It was
great for me to see the lads play so well and get through to the next round.
I will definitely be supporting them against Chelsea, even if I can't be
there myself. "It was a real boost to see all the boys wearing 'Get well
soon Dylan' t-shirts in the warm-up. I can't wait to be back training and
playing alongside them."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Africa Cup of Nations special
WHUFC.com
Papa Bouba Diop, Abdoulaye Faye and Guy Demel on Africa's big football party
21.01.2012

The CAF Africa Cup of Nations kicks-off in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon on
Saturday, with 16 of the continent's best footballing countries battling it
out to be champions. The 1992 winners Ivory Coast are the favourites to
lift the trophy for a second time, while Senegal are hotly-tipped to win the
tournament for the first time. While Ivorian Guy Demel may be missing the
competition through injury and Senegalese duo Papa Bouba Diop (pictured) and
Abdoulaye Faye are no longer involved regularly at international level, the
West Ham United trio will be keeping a close eye on proceedings on
television. The tournament kicks-off in Bata, Equatorial Guinea, on Saturday
with the host nation taking on Libya and Senegal facing Zambia. Ivory Coast
begin their challenge against Sudan in Malabo on Sunday. The tournament ends
in Libreville, Gabon, on 12 February.

2006 Africa Cup of Nations runner-up Demel sat down with 2002 FIFA World Cup
hero Diop and three-times Africa Cup of Nations finalist Faye to talk
exclusivley to whufc.com about the tournament.

So, who is going to win the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations?

PBD: I think Senegal is going to win the African Nations Cup because we have
a new team of young players. Senegal, Ivory Coast and Ghana are the best
teams but Senegal has the best squad and a big chance to win it. They have
four or five top strikers like Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse and Moussa Sow.

AF: Why are you asking this question? It will be Senegal, of course! We have
a big team with the best strikers playing in Europe now. We have Demba Ba,
Papiss Cisse who has signed for Newcastle and the others who play for French
teams. We have the chance to win this for the first time. We have been to
the final before and I think we can do it again.

GD: I hope that my country is going to win the competition. The people of
Ivory Coast deserve it and I think we are one of the best teams in Africa.
We have to prove it because we have failed a lot of times before. This one
is going to be a good one for us.

Which other nations to do see as a threat?

PBD: I think Ivory Coast or Ghana will be the other strongest teams.

AF: We will go to the final and there we will play the Ivory Coast and we
will beat them 1-0.

GD: To be honest, Ghana is a good team and Senegal have a good team too.
Ivory Coast are the favourites and there are some others like Burkina Faso
who have a lot of players who play in France. They are not bad, too. I think
normally the big three are Ghana, Senegal and Ivory Coast but I think we are
much better than the others.

Which player do you think will be the star of the tournament?

PBD: Yaya Toure from Manchester City.

AF: Oh, that's a tough question, but maybe Demba Ba.

GD: All of the players have the chance to be the star of the tournament,
especially for Ivory Coast. Demba has played a great season with Newcastle.
We have a lot of players from Ivory Coast who could help us to win the cup -
Gervinho, Yaya Toure or Cheick Tiote. Ghana have Andre Ayew and I played
with Jonathan Pitroipa at Hamburg and he plays for Burkina Faso and he could
be the star, too.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 2 - 1 Nott'm Forest
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 17:21 GMT, Saturday, 21 January 2012

Two controversial Mark Noble penalties saw West Ham beat wasteful Nottingham
Forest to go top of the Championship for the first time this season. Forest
had the better of the first half with Marcus Tudgay, Lewis McGugan and Paul
Anderson all missing good chances. But Noble blasted in the opener in
first-half injury time after Guy Moussi was penalised for handball and made
it 2-0 following Chris Gunter's handball. McGugan did find the net with a
fine 20-yard strike but the Hammers held on. McGugan's injury-time effort -
just Forest's fourth goal in their last 12 games - came too late to threaten
the home side's lead and lift the gloom at the City Ground. Steve
Cotterill's Forest side remain in the relegation zone, four points from
safety. But although they will feel unfortunate to be on the wrong end of
two tough penalty calls, the Reds should have been at least two goals up by
the time referee Tony Bates award a spot-kick when Moussi blocked Sam
Baldock's cross with his hand. Tudgay twice fired over over and McGugan also
failed to find the target when well placed. However their best opening saw
Anderson shoot tamely at goal after great work by Marlon Harewood and
McGugan. Kevin Nolan and George McCartney both had half-chances before the
Hammers went ahead, despite Lee Camp getting a hand to Noble's strike. The
visitors continued to have the upper hand after the interval with home
goalkeeper Robert Green denying Gunter and a McGugan cross coming back off
the post and then being smashed off the line by Noble. At the other end Jack
Collison could have doubled the lead after a fine run and Camp made a fine
diving save to keep out a Henri Lansbury effort. But Noble did add a second
soon after the hour, and West Ham were able to enjoy going top despite
McGugan's last-gasp strike.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
English clubs eye Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 13:09 GMT, Saturday, 21 January 2012
By Chris McLaughlin
Senior Football Reporter, BBC Scotland

Liverpool are in pole position to sign Nikica Jelavic as English interest in
the Croatia striker intensifies, BBC Scotland understands. Premier League
rivals Fulham and Championship outfit West Ham have been in contact about
the 26-year-old. Responding to interest from West Ham, Rangers boss Ally
McCoist said: "They've not made an official bid. "The reported amount would
not be enough to meet the demands of the owner - £6m is not nearly enough."
Rangers rejected a £6.5m offer from Leicester City for Jelavic in the summer
and claimed they also rebuffed a £9m approach from an unnamed club shortly
before the closure of the transfer window. The player himself later revealed
that he had turned down overtures from Turkish outfit Fenerbahce but
admitted ambitions to play in England's top flight. He has recently been
linked with Liverpool and QPR before it emerged that informal talks had been
held with Sam Allardyce's West Ham. McCoist, though, insisted that no bids -
from West Ham or any other club - had been tabled since the January window
opened, despite much speculation about the striker's future. "I know Sam
very well and I think, if there was a real interest, he and I would have
spoken, but there has been no official bid made and I certainly haven't
spoken to anyone about it," he said.
Jelavic began his career with Hajduk Split before moving on to Zulte Waregem
then Rapid Vienna. He joined Rangers for £4m in August 2010, when he signed
a four-year contract, and is the Scottish champions' top scorer this season
with 17 goals.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble spot on as Hammers go top
Last updated: 21st January 2012
SSN

Two Mark Noble penalties fired West Ham to a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest
and to the top of the Championship for the first time this season. The
midfielder's double from the spot was enough to ensure the pre-season
promotion favourites leapfrogged Southampton, who do not play until Monday.
But despite their lofty position, the Hammers rarely hit the heights against
a struggling Nottingham Forest side. In fact, Sam Allardyce's men could, and
probably should, have been two or three goals down before they benefited
from some generous refereeing, allowing Noble to make it three successful
spot-kicks in his last two outings. Referee Tony Bates twice took centre
stage, penalising Guy Moussi and Chris Gunter for handball in each half to
gift the hosts victory, despite a last-gasp consolation from Lewis McGugan.
Forest had by far the better chances in the first half, with Marcus Tudgay
twice blazing over and McGugan also wayward in front of goal. Their best
opportunity came 15 minutes before the break when former West Ham striker
Marlon Harewood and McGugan combined well to tee up Paul Anderson with the
goal gaping. But Hammers defender Julien Faubert just did enough to put
Anderson off the shot and Rob Green was able to collect his weak effort. The
home side, by contrast, had created only half-chances, with skipper Kevin
Nolaninches away from getting a touch on a dangerous cross from George
McCartney and Jack Collison shooting too close to Lee Camp. But they were
handed the lead in first-half stoppage time when referee Bates awarded a
penalty after harshly adjudging Moussi had blocked Sam Baldock's cross with
his hand. Noble, whose penalty was all that separated the sides when West
Ham beat Portsmouthlast week, repeated the trick despite Camp getting a hand
to his shot. The West Ham goal continued to lead a charmed life after the
break, with Green making a fine save to deny Chris Gunter.
And from the resulting corner, McGugan's cross deceived everyone in the
goalmouth and cannoned off the far post before it was hacked off the line by
Noble. At the other end Collison should have doubled the hosts' lead after a
mazy run into the area but his shot was deflected over the top, and Camp
pulled off a fine diving save to deny Henri Lansbury. But the second goal
did arrive in the 63rd minute when Bates pointed to the spot again, Gunter
this time the guilty party, and Noble did the honours once more. McGugan
pulled one back deep into stoppage time but there was barely time to restart
and the Hammers celebrated hitting top spot.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins commits to Hammers
Defender delighted to end speculation about his future
Last Updated: January 21, 2012 3:42pm
SSN

West Ham United defender James Tomkins has ended speculation about his
future by signing a new contract at Upton Park until 2016. Tomkins, who came
through the ranks at West Ham, has repeatedly been linked with a move to the
Premier League since the club suffered relegation at the end of last season.
Hammers co-owner David Gold insisted earlier this month that the 22-year-old
is not for sale amid reports of a £4million bid from Newcastle United.
Speculation has claimed that Newcastle will now wait until the summer to
make a renewed bid to land Tomkins, but the centre-half has pledged his
future to West Ham. Tomkins made his 100th appearance for the club in
Saturday's Championship game against Nottingham Forest and is delighted to
be part of Sam Allardyce's squad.

Brilliant

"I'm really pleased that I've signed a new contract at the club," Tomkins
told the club's official website. "It's nice to end the speculation about
what people have been saying in the papers and commit my future to the club
and concentrate on my football. "By signing this deal, I'm showing my
commitment to the club as they've been brilliant to me this year with all
the support they have given to me and the rest of the players. "If they
continue doing that then together we can return the club back to the Premier
League, where we believe we belong. "Sam Allardyce has been brilliant this
year as well and has shown what he can do on and off the pitch as a
motivational manager."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers in Jelavic talks
Rangers yet to receive an offer for prolific Croatian striker
Last Updated: January 21, 2012 6:43pm
SSN

Sam Allardyce has confirmed West Ham United have enquired about the
availability of prolific Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic. Sky Sports sources
revealed on Friday evening that the Hammers had contacted the SPL champions
as Allardyce seeks to improve his attacking options. The West Ham chief has
already failed with a bid for Huddersfield Town's Jordan Rhodes and is now
trying to add Jelavic to his squad. "We have enquired in terms of his
availability as far as I am concerned, but in terms of a bid that's not my
department," said Allardyce after Saturday's 2-1 home win over Nottingham
Forest. Jelavic was the subject of a failed bid from West Ham's Championship
rivals Leicester City last summer, while Liverpool and Queens Park Rangers
had been linked with January bids. Rangers boss Ally McCoist is determined
to hang on to the Croatia international as he looks to catch Old Firm rivals
Celtic in the SPL title race.

Informal chat

McCoist also confirmed on Friday that, following speculation West Ham will
offer £6million for Jelavic, the figure would not be enough to secure the
forward. Speaking after Gers' 1-1 home draw with Aberdeen, McCoist confirmed
talks have taken place between chairman Craig Whyte and his West Ham
counterpart David Sullivan.
"I spoke to Craig today and I believe Craig had a conversation with David
Sullivan," said McCoist. "But Craig was very keen to point out that
absolutely no offers had been made at all. I think it was just a pretty
informal chat they had." On speculation linking the player with other clubs
south of the border, he added: "That's news to me, I've certainly not been
told. The only team where there has been an indication of interest is West
Ham."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce - We got lucky
Forest boss Cotterill unimpressed by decisions
Last Updated: January 21, 2012 6:45pm
SSN

Sam Allardyce admits West Ham were fortunate to see decisions go their way
after they beat Nottingham Forest 2-1 on Saturday. Two controversial Mark
Noble penalties were enough to sink Forest and send the Hammers above
Southampton at the top of the Championship, with the Saints not set to play
until Monday. The pre-season promotion favourites are now at the summit for
the first time this term but they got a helping hand from referee Tony Bates
and his eagle-eyed assistants.
Bates harshly adjudged Guy Moussi to have handled a Jack Collison cross from
point-blank range in first-half stoppage-time, and then penalised Chris
Gunter for handball after an hour. Upton Park boss Allardyce said: "We went
ahead through probably quite a fortunate penalty, but you have to be
professional and dispose of it when you get the opportunity. "It was not the
best of days but when you can dig a win out it shows the resilience of the
players. "As much as we are disappointed with our performance we are
delighted with three points. It brings us to three wins on the trot and
keeps up our winning streak. "We can look at the table and see we are three
points ahead of Southampton, which is where we want to be."

Unimpressed

Forest manager Steve Cotterill was, predictably, unimpressed with the
penalty decisions which enabled Noble to take his tally for the season to
six. It was all the more frustrating for Cotterill as his side had looked by
far the more likely to open the scoring against a strangely subdued West
Ham. Paul Anderson missed their best chance when he failed to connect with
Lewis McGugan's cross with the goal gaping. "It probably sums up how it's
been since I've been here, we could have been two or three up before the
alleged penalty was given," he said. "It's blatantly not a penalty. "I can
see why he has given the second one, Gunter's arm is up, but it must have
hit the hairs on his arm because the ball doesn't deviate. "The linesman has
done well to see that one, for sure."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce plans happy anniversary for West Ham chiefs
Published 08:54 21/01/12 By The Mirror

Sam Allardyce believes his West Ham bosses are the best in the business and
hopes to repay them on their anniversary by going top of the Championship.
David Gold and David Sullivan celebrated two years in charge of the club
this week and have endured a rollercoaster ride since they took charge of
the east London club back in January 2010. The duo have never been afraid to
speak their mind and previous managers Gianfranco Zola and Avram Grant both
came under fire following a string of poor results. Allardyce admits he has
now seen a completely different side to them and wants to help them achieve
their goal of bouncing straight back into the top flight. When asked if he
was worried about their outbursts, Allardyce said: "I think it's put them in
the wrong context because I had that impression before I came. But I have
found them not to be how they have perhaps portrayed themselves. "The media
has caught them at a particular time when they have been disappointed with
what's happening at their club and they've made a statement that has created
some headlines. I haven't found them to be like that yet, and I certainly
hope it continues that way for some time "At the moment the relationship is
as good as I have had. For me, adjusting to how they run the football club
has been what I have done, and communicating to them in a way that they like
to be communicated. "Whether that changes if we had a very bad run of
results and the pressure comes on, I don't know, it may do, it may not. At
the moment it's been a good working relationship. "When it comes to
transfers they get straight in there and see what we can get. I haven't
experienced that before in my entire management career." West Ham can go top
of the table for the first time if they beat Nottingham Forest today, as
Southampton are not in action until Monday night.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble efforts lift Hammers to top spot
West Ham United 2 Nottingham Forest 1
JACK PITT-BROOKE UPTON PARK SUNDAY 22 JANUARY 2012
The Independent

West Ham reached the top of the Championship last night despite a
performance which was conspicuously average. They beat Nottingham Forest2-1
thanks to two Mark Noble penalties, the first of which was a mystifying
award at the end of an underwhelming first half.

The first 45 minutes were a perfect example of why, despite their top spot,
the West Ham United fans are not yet fully enthused about the season. "It
wasn't our best of days," said their manager, Sam Allardyce, "but when you
can dig one out when you're not on your best form it shows the players'
resilience and commitment."

West Ham's approach largely consisted of long diagonal balls to Kevin Nolan
and Carlton Cole. Nolan nearly forced in George McCartney's near-post cross
after 12 minutes, but there was lack of imagination about West Ham's
attacking play. In his programme notes Allardyce bemoaned the fact that West
Ham had scored just six goals in their previous eight games, and it was not
difficult to see why.

Forest had their own goalscoring woes – they had failed to score in 10 of
their previous 11 games – but their attacking play in the first half was
surprisingly skilful. Finishing, not creating, was their problem. Marcus
Tudgay missed his first chance after 10 minutes, shooting over from a
corner. Three minutes later Lewis McGugan arrived on to Chris Gunter's cross
but shot over. Soon after, Tudgay had a shot from a similar position
deflected over. "We could have been 2-0 or 3-0 up," their manager, Steve
Cotterill, claimed.

With so many chances missed it seemed unlikely to be Forest's day, an
impression reinforced in first-half stoppage time. Guy Moussi blocked Jack
Collison's right-wing cross from close range, and, to the surprise of the
whole stadium, a penalty kick was awarded.

"It's blatantly not a penalty," Cotterill said afterwards. Even Allardyce
described it as "quite fortunate". Mark Noble, characteristically reliable,
gave West Ham a lead their play had not deserved.

Forest's confidence was as fragile as could be expected: once behind, they
offered little in the second half. West Ham, who announced that James
Tomkins has signed a new long-term contract, started to improve: Jack
Collison could not reward a delightful run with a finish to match, and Henri
Lansbury forced a springing save from Lee Camp.

Two minutes later another ball into Forest's box bemused Gunter, who could
only stop it with a hand. This time the award was in keeping with the run of
play, and Noble's conversion was again precise.

With a two-goal lead, there was little question of West Ham failing to
complete the victory which would send them top, even after Forest scored a
late consolation. Having missed easier chances when it mattered, McGugan
contrived a brilliant but meaningless goal, hammering the ball in
left-footed from 25 yards in stoppage time.

West Ham United (4-3-1-2) Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Reid, McCartney; Noble,
Bouba Diop (Lansbury, h-t), Collison; Nolan; Baldock (Hall, 78), Cole
(Piquionne, 85).

Nottingham Forest (4-3-1-2) Camp; Gunter, Morgan, Lynch, Cunningham
(Anderson, 23); Moussi, McGugan, Greening (Blackstock, 56); McCleary;
Harewood (Miller, 73), Tudgay.

Referee: Anthony Bates

Man of the match: Tomkins (West Ham)

Match rating: 3/10

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United 2 Nottingham Forest 1: match details
By Arindam Rej at Upton Park9:36PM GMT 21 Jan 2012
Telegraph.co.uk

West Ham United are top of the Championship for the first time this season,
but this was not the most convincing way to achieve it. Two controversial
penalties for handball allowed Mark Noble to strike twice, but that masked a
disjointed display in which free-falling Nottingham Forest wasted a plethora
of chances. But West Ham's ability to force these wins, without being
fluent, bodes well for their automatic promotion hopes, as does James
Tomkins's decision to sign a new contract until summer 2016. The 22-year-old
centre-back has been interesting Newcastle, who had two bids for him
rejected, and Tottenham. Tomkins said: "It's nice to end the speculation
about what people have been saying in the papers and commit my future to the
club and concentrate on my football."

He showed that concentration with some crucial defending as Forest had the
better of the first hour but the game's pivotal moments arrived when referee
Tony Bates awarded the penalties. Guy Moussi and Chris Gunter were the men
to be punished. Forest manager Steve Cotterill, under pressure already after
eight defeats in 10 league games, said: "We could have been 2-0 or 3-0 up
before the alleged penalty. It's blatantly not a penalty. I can see why he's
given the second one as Gunter's arm is up but the ball doesn't deviate."

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said: "I think it was probably quite a
fortunate penalty. But that first goal settled us down. We're disappointed
with our performance but delighted we won."

Kriss Akabusi, a West Ham fan, showed admirable energy for a 53 year-old as
he read out the teams before kick-off, but his team looked lethargic
initially. Thankfully, the visitors' finishing showed why their recent
scoring record is so dismal. Marcus Tudgay missed two early chances,
shooting high and then wide, and Lewis McGugan also struck over from a clear
opening. West Ham improved at the end of the first half with Jack Collison's
angled strike being parried clear by Lee Camp. Then came their contentious
penalty for handball, given against Moussi after a Collison cross, and Noble
powered it in. There was more Forest frustration early in the second half as
Gunter's strike was smothered by Rob Green and McGugan's resultant corner
evaded everybody before striking the far post. Camp tipped clear Henri
Lansbury's half-volley, before the hosts doubled their lead from Noble's
second spot kick. Forest looked a beaten team after that, with West Ham in
control, although McGugan did lash in a typically ferocious30-yard strike
deep into injury time.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 21st January 2012

2012-01-21T09:03:00.000Z

Big Sam hails positive approach
WHUFC.com
The manager believes the future is looking good for West Ham United in all
areas of the club
20.01.2012

Sam Allardyce believes things are looking rosy for West Ham United - on and
off the pitch. While Big Sam's team seek to go top of the npower
Championship for the first time when they play Nottingham Forest on
Saturday, Thursday saw Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold mark two
years at the Hammers helm. The manager was in understandably upbeat mood as
he made his final preparations for this weekend's fixture, speaking
positively about his side's prospects and glowingly of his relationship with
Mr Sullivan and Mr Gold. Taking first the football side of things, Big Sam
is eager for his players to push on, even if they do reach the summit come
5pm on Saturday. "I think it would be great for us. It has been a very
difficult job catching Southampton and when we've finally got closer and
closer we've then ultimately failed and then slipped back again," he said.
"For most of this season we've climbed the mountain and then we've just
slipped off the peak and back down slightly again. What we can do this time
is stay on top of the peak of the mountain and try and win the three points
to get a little bit ahead of them even though it might only be for a short
period of time. "More importantly it may then create an even wider gap
between us and third and fourth."

While the Hammers hold a four-point lead over third-place Cardiff City going
into the weekend, the manager is aware that a host of clubs could still
mount a late charge for the automatic promotion positions. "My worry is the
challenge of Middlesbrough, Cardiff, Hull City, Reading now, even a big
danger is Birmingham.
"I think that Chris Hughton and his squad, looking at the changes he made
from Millwall to [the midweek FA Cup win over] Wolves and winning both
games, are strong. "I know Millwall were down to nine men, but the changes
he made and then to beat a Premier League side in the cup and to use a
different set of players in different positions shows you just how strong a
squad they are. "So, the two-way scenario is, yes we would like to be at the
top and we'd like to stay at the top but we've also got to fend off any of
those super-duper late runs."

Concentrating on his relationship with the Joint-Chairmen, Big Sam said his
dealings had been overwhelmingly positive during the eight months since his
appointment.
"At the moment, the relationship is as good as I've had. As in any business,
it is vitally important how you communicate with your bosses, and I think
that my levels of communication have always been one of my strengths as a
manager - it hasn't just been about managing players, it's been about
managing all the different factors of the Football Club. "The biggest factor
is managing in terms of how we communicate between ourselves for the good of
the Football Club. It's about how we go about doing our jobs in a very
difficult industry and making sure that we work as harmoniously as hard as
we can. "For me, adjusting to how they run the Football Club has been what
I've done and communicating to them in a way that they like to be
communicated in. "That has made life for me easier, to get on with the
football side of it and to try and get the players out on the field and
continue to work. So that has been fine as far as I'm concerned. "It's been
a good working relationship between myself and David Sullivan particularly
and David Gold in terms of whenever he wants he can come in."

Big Sam has also welcomed the Joint-Chairmen's enthusiasm in the transfer
market - most notably the eye-catching move to bring captain Kevin Nolan to
the Club from Premier League Newcastle United. "In terms of transfers, we're
still ambitious enough to get back in the premier league and we're ambitious
enough to get players like Kevin Nolan to come and join us and that made a
big statement. "David [Sullivan] is interested in a million players and I
think he really enjoys it. I think he really enjoys the nature of the
transfer market and the wheeling and dealing of the 'can you find a player?'
and he is obviously very knowledgeable in that direction. "My job is to make
sure that first and foremost we don't sign the wrong one, because there's
that many thrown at us that it's easy to take the gamble. I want to reduce
the gamble to a minimum so that when we bring in that player, 90 or 80 per
cent of the time it's going to be successful."

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Captain's blog
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan is fired up for the visit of Nottingham Forest on Saturday
20.01.2012

We are all ready and raring to go against Nottingham Forest this Saturday.
The aim is to follow up on what was a well-earned and well-fought win away
at Portsmouth last weekend, especially with Fratton Park being no easy place
to go. We dug in and got the three points and now it is up to us to make
that count even more with another good result and boss it here at home. I
mentioned that Fratton Park was a difficult place to play, their fans have
made it an intimidating place, but despite that, all of you who made the
trip to Pompey more than made yourselves heard and that was brilliant to
hear. It was great to hear the singing and support which helped us on to an
important victory, so on behalf of myself and all the lads, thanks to all of
you. We are getting there now after a little spell of injuries and
suspensions and we are all on track in working towards our goal - promotion.
This Saturday's match against Forest is a pay on the day, so hopefully as
many of you as possible will again be cheering us on. As you can see by my
words in this blog, it does help us a lot. Forest may not have had the best
of times lately, but it will be no easy match and a lot of patience is
needed for us all to work and get a result.

A few other things I want to mention, a big congratulations to our Under-18
team who won through to the next round of the FA Youth Cup. Myself and some
of the other lads were there to see them win and put in a great performance,
so well done to them and all the Academy staff. It is also two years ago
this week since owners David Sullivan and David Gold took over the club. I
have had a good working relationship with them since arriving here in the
summer. I know they are doing all they can to back the team and get the club
back up to the top flight and I am sure this is something they will continue
to do and that can only be a good thing for our club.

As this is my first captain's blog of the new year, I do hope all of you had
a safe and happy Christmas and I look forward to hopefully sharing what we
hope is a great 2012 for all associated with West Ham United.

Make lots of noise for us on Saturday and we will do our best in return.
Come on you Irons!

Kevin Nolan
Captain

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Nottingham Forest match preview
All the background and team news ahead of Saturday's npower Championship
visit of the Reds
WHUFC.com
20.01.2012

WEST HAM UNITED v NOTTINGHAM FOREST
npower CHAMPIONSHIP
SATURDAY 21 JANUARY 2012
KICK-OFF: 3PM
FULL AUDIO AND TEXT COMMENTARY - WEST HAM TV
iPHONE APP I TWITTER I FACEBOOK I PODCAST

Introduction
• West Ham United welcome Nottingham Forest knowing a draw will be enough to
take them top of the npower Championship table for the first time this
season.
• The Hammers go into Saturday's match level on points with leaders
Southampton, but with an inferior goal difference by four goals. However,
the Saints do not play again until Monday evening, when they host Leicester
City.
• Saturday's match sees Sam Allardyce's side look to complete a third
consecutive league victory following a 1-0 home win over Coventry City on
Monday 2 January and success by an identical scoreline at Portsmouth on
Saturday 14 January. The Hammers would also complete a third straight league
'double' should they triumph this weekend.
• Should he start on Saturday, Robert Green will make his 200th league
appearance in goal for the club.
• Nottingham Forest arrive in east London in 22nd place in the table and
staring at the possibility of being relegated to the third tier for the
second time in eight seasons. The two-times European Cup winners have scored
just 21 goals and collected just 21 points from 26 league matches played.
The Tricky Trees were also dumped out of the FA Cup on Wednesday, losing 4-0
at Leicester City in a third-round replay.
• Nottingham Forest are enduring a terrible run of form in front of goal,
having failed to score in nine of their previous ten matches in all
competitions - eight of which have come in the npower Championship. However,
Steve Cotterill's side hit the net three times when they did manage to
score, winning 3-1 at Ipswich Town on 2 January.
• Steve Cotterill has already ended up on the losing side as a manager at
the Boleyn Ground this season. His Portsmouth side were beaten 4-3 here in
the npower Championship on 10 September 2011.
• On the Reds' most-recent visit to east London on 30 January 2011, West Ham
United defeated Nottingham Forest 3-2 in last season's FA Cup third round at
the Boleyn Ground, with Victor Obinna netting a hat-trick. West Ham are
unbeaten in their previous five home matches against Forest dating back to a
1-0 Premier League win for the visitors on 1 January 1997.

Us and them
• West Ham United's biggest-ever home victory over Nottingham Forest was a
5-0 Division Two success on 18 February 1939. Benny Fenton scored twice and
Joseph Stanley Foxall, Archie Macaulay and Len Goulden once each in front of
16,200 supporters.
• Nottingham Forest's largest victory at the Boleyn Ground came in the shape
of a 5-0 Division Two win on 30 April 1949. Amazingly, Forest would end the
1948/49 season by being relegated to Division Three (South), while West Ham
would lose just three home games in finishing seventh in the table.
• The largest crowd to witness a West Ham United versus Nottingham Forest
fixture was the 36,589 who turned out for the Hammers' 3-0 Division One win
over the Tricky Trees on 12 April 1968. Brian Dear scored twice and John
Sissons once for the hosts.
• West Ham United caused a massive upset when they beat Nottingham Forest
2-1 in the FA Cup first round on 14 January 1911. Then a Southern League
First Division club, the Hammers scored a victory over their Football League
Division One opponents thanks to two goals from forward Danny Shea.
• West Ham United defender Tony Gale was infamously sent-off in the 1991 FA
Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest at Villa Park on 14 April 1991
after a foul on Gary Crosby. Referee Keith Hackett later revealed that he
had been given a directive before the game on the interpretation of the
professional foul rule. Forest would go on to win the game 4-0 but lost 2-1
to Tottenham Hotspur in the final. Future Hammers Gary Charles and Stuart
Pearce filled the full-back positions for Forest in the semi-final.

• George John's FC Dallas eliminated Nottingham Forest striker Robbie
Findley's Real Salt Lake from the MLS Play-Offs in October 2010 courtesy of
a 3-2 aggregate victory.
• Nottingham Forest striker Matt Derbyshire was plucked from the obscurity
of non-league Great Harwood Town by Blackburn Rovers in 2003, having been
recommended to then Rovers chief scout and present West Ham United head of
player recruitment Martyn Glover. Derbyshire appeared for Birmingham City in
last season's Carling Cup semi-final victory over the Hammers.
• Victor Obinna scored a hat-trick in West Ham United's 3-2 FA Cup
fourth-round win over Nottingham Forest at the Boleyn Ground on 30 January
2011. The Nigeria forward is one of four players to score a hat-trick
against Forest alongside Dave Mangnall (September 1935), Frank McAvennie
(May 1992) and Syd Puddefoot, who netted four times in a 5-1 Division Two
victory in April 1920. McAvennie's treble came in his final game for the
Hammers and after the Scot had appeared as a substitute for Mitchell Thomas.
• Nottingham Forest player Chris Cohen played 21 times in all competition
for the Hammers between 2003 and 2006, having come through the youth ranks
at the Boleyn Ground.
• Jim Barrett, Horace Brown, Franz Carr, Gary Charles, Charlie Craig, Colin
Foster, Marlon Harewood, Andy Melville, Ian Moore, Adam Nowland, Stuart
Pearce, Teddy Sheringham and Fred Wallbanks are among those to have worn the
colours of both clubs.
• Fifteen players have made their West Ham United debuts against Nottingham
Forest - Frank Birchenough (April 1920), Vivian Gibbins (December 1923),
William Kaine (October 1924), Arthur Tonner (September 1935), Robert Black
(February 1937), Brian Moore (May 1955), Geoff Hurst (February 1960), Paul
Heffer and Bill Kitchener (March 1967), Bryan 'Pop' Robson (February 1971),
Alexander Clarke (August 1982), Robbie Slater (August 1995), Dani (February
1996), Hayden Mullins (October 2003) and Gavin Williams (December 2004).
• Glaswegian Arthur Tonner's appearance in the 5-2 win over Nottingham
Forest in September 1935 was his one and only game in a West Ham United
shirt.

Previous meeting
• West Ham United last met Nottingham Forest on 28 August 2011, when the
Hammers ran out 4-1 npower Championship winners at the City Ground.

• Luke Chambers netted an own-goal before Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole put
West Ham in total charge before half-time. Robbie Findley pulled one back
before Winston Reid completed the scoring late on. The lineups were:
Nottingham Forest: Camp, Morgan, Chambers, Gunter, Boateng (Lynch 58),
Cohen, Greening, McGugan (Derbyshire 64), Majewski (Reid 64), Miller,
Findley
Subs not used: Smith, Garner
West Ham United: Green, O'Brien, Faubert , Reid, Tomkins, McCartney, Noble,
Taylor, Collison (Faye 75), Nolan, Cole (Piquionne 68)
Subs not used: Boffin, Stanislas, Carew

Team news
West Ham United
• Sam Allardyce has no fresh injury concerns ahead of Saturday's match.
However, Matt Taylor (calf), Guy Demel (thigh) and Marek Stech (shoulder)
remain sidelined.
• New signing George John is not expected to be involved as he continues to
work his way towards full match-fitness following his arrival on loan from
MLS club FC Dallas.
• Pablo Barrera and Jordan Spence are on season-long loans at Real Zaragoza
and Bristol City respectively. Cristian Montano, Ahmed Abdulla and Eoin
Wearen are on temporary loans at Dagenham & Redbridge, while Peter Kurucz
(Rochdale), Callum Driver (Burton Albion) and George Moncur (AFC Wimbledon)
are also away.
Nottingham Forest
• Nottingham Forest defender Luke Chambers is suspended after being sent-off
in the 3-0 home npower Championship defeat by Southampton last weekend.
• The Reds will be without former Hammer Chris Cohen (knee ligaments),
Ishmael Miller (fractured foot), Brendan Moloney (knee), Wes Morgan (foot)
and Jamaal Lascelles (back).

Last time out
Saturday 15 January 2012
npower Championship
Portsmouth 0-1 West Ham United
West Ham United: Green, O'Brien, Faubert (Lansbury 84), Reid, Tomkins,
McCartney, Diop, Noble, Collison, Nolan , Cole
Goal: Noble 24 (pen)
Wednesday 17 January 2012
FA Cup with Budweiser third-round replay
Leicester City 4-0 Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest: Camp, Lynch, Gunter, Cunningham, Boateng (McGoldrick 46),
Greening (McGugan 46), Anderson, Moussi, Reid, Harewood (Blackstock 81),
Findley

Previous meetings
(Last six meetings, npower Championship unless stated)
28 August 2011 - Nottingham Forest 1-4 West Ham United
30 January 2011 - West Ham United 3-2 Nottingham Forest (FA Cup fourth
round)
26 December 2004 - West Ham United 3-2 Nottingham Forest
26 September 2004 - Nottingham Forest 2-1 West Ham United
28 December 2003 - Nottingham Forest 0-2 West Ham United
22 October 2003 - West Ham United 1-1 Nottingham Forest
Overall record v Nottingham Forest (all competitions) W 45 D 26 L 43

Ten-year records
West Ham United
2010/11 Premier League 20th (33 points)
2009/10 Premier League 17th (35 points)
2008/09 Premier League 9th (51 points)
2007/08 Premier League 10th (49 points)
2006/07 Premier League 15th (41 points)
2005/06 Premier League 9th (55 points)
2004/05 Championship 6th (73 points - promoted to Premier League via
Play-Offs)
2003/04 Championship 4th (74 points)
2002/03 Premier League 18th (42 points - relegated to Championship)
2001/02 Premier League 7th (53 points)
Nottingham Forest
2010/11 Championship 6th (75 points)
2009/10 Championship 3rd (79 points)
2008/09 Championship 19th (53 points)
2007/08 League One 2nd (82 points - promoted to Championship)
2006/07 League One 4th (82 points)
2005/06 League One 7th (69 points)
2004/05 Championship 23rd (44 points - relegated to League One)
2003/04 Championship 14th (60 points)
2002/03 Championship 6th (74 points)
2001/02 Championship 16th (54 points)

Referee
• Saturday's referee will be the experienced Tony Bates - the
longest-serving referee in the Football League. Aged 50, Bates has been
officiating in the Football League since being appointed as an assistant
referee as long ago as 1993, having begun his career a decade earlier at
junior level.
• Two years later, he took the flag in the Charity Shield before doing the
same job as England hosted the UEFA European Championship in 1996, running
the line in the group-stage meeting between eventual finalists Germany and
Czech Republic. The same year, he also ran the line at the FA Cup final.
Bates completed a fine year by being appointed to the Football League List
of referees for the 1996/97 season.
• More recently, during a Championship fixture between Coventry City and
Nottingham Forest in February 2010, an injury to Bates saw him replaced by
assistant Amy Fearn, who subsequently became the first female to referee a
Football League match.
• Bates officiated his West Ham United match when he took charge of the 1-0
home npower Championship win over Peterborough United on 24 September 2011.
• Away from football, Bates is a big speedway fan.
• Bates will be assisted by Carl Fitch and Simon Knapp, while the fourth
official will be Michael Webb.

Old boys
• Chris Cohen played 21 times in all competition for the Hammers between
2003 and 2006, having come through the youth ranks at the Boleyn Ground.
• Jim Barrett, Horace Brown, Franz Carr, Charlie Craig, Colin Foster, Marlon
Harewood, Andy Melville, Ian Moore, Adam Nowland, Stuart Pearce, Teddy
Sheringham and Fred Wallbanks are among those to have worn the colours of
both West Ham United and Nottingham Forest.

Next up
• West Ham United have a weekend off before returning to action with an
npower Championship trip to Ipswich Town on the evening of Tuesday 31
January.

General information
• Saturday's match has been designated as a Youth Academy match, meaning ALL
Youth Academy tickets are FREE. For ticket information, click here.
• Sunday's forecast in east London is for a cloudy afternoon with
temperatures peaking around the 11C (52F) mark.

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U18s target Palace victory
WHUFC.com
Nick Haycock believes the youth team can continue their perfect 2012 at
Crystal Palace
20.01.2012

West Ham United Under-18s coach Nick Haycock believes his young side will
continue their perfect start to 2012 when they travel to Crystal Palace on
Saturday.
The Hammers have registered three wins out of three so far this year,
scoring FA Premier Academy victories over Chelsea and Norwich City and an FA
Youth Cup fourth-round success against Brighton and Hove Albion - scoring 13
goals in the process. Having beaten Palace 3-0 in their reverse league
fixture at Little Heath in November, Haycock is confident his side can
record their fourth consecutive win this weekend. "The boys have made a good
start this year. We've had three tough games and the next four matches will
be equally so - Palace, Arsenal, Southampton and Chelsea in the FA Youth
Cup. "It'll be a good test of the squad but the squad responded well last
week [winning 6-1 against Norwich] and I fully expect them to put the same
sort of effort and endeavour into their performances as they have so far in
2012. "Any one of eight teams can win our group so it'll depend on players
being available and cup runs. The biggest target for us is to have more
players in the first team than any other club. That's always the ultimate
goal, but a good cup run and a nice position in the league is something we
strive for. "Us and Palace are two Academies who produce players for their
first teams by doing it in the right way. I've got respect for what they
do."

A number of players also know the next few matches will help the coaching
staff decide whether or not to offer them their first professional
contracts. "It's a tough time for them, but all the way through their
careers they will have to handle the pressure of earning contracts because
that is what the game is about. "Individually, it's something for them to
push for. Equally, the boys who have already got contracts cannot afford to
take their foot off the gas. They have to work to catch the manager's eye."

One player who has already signed a professional contract is Dylan Tombides.
The striker is continuing to undergo treatment after being diagnosed with
testicular cancer last summer, but is hopeful of being able to return to
light training in the next few months. "Obviously Dylan is undergoing
treatment and all our thoughts are with him at this testing time. The squad
are striving to improve their standards for him to come back into a better
place as well."

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West Ham v Nott'm Forest
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 13:50 GMT, Friday, 20 January 2012

Npower Championship
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday 21 August Kick-off: 1500 BST Coverage:
Watch highlights on The Football League Show; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and
BBC local radio; text commentary on the BBC Sport website

TEAM NEWS
West Ham could include defender George John following his arrival on loan
from FC Dallas. Sam Baldock is pushing to partner Carlton Cole in attack,
but midfielder Matt Taylor (calf) and defender Guy Demel (thigh) are both
still out.

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cotterill has no new injury or suspension
worries. Defender Wes Morgan (ankle), midfielder Chris Cohen (knee) and
striker Ishmael Miller (foot) are still missing.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

• These clubs have been facing each other for a hundred years and
there is only two wins between them; West Ham have won 45 and Nottingham
Forest 43 of 114 competitive matches.
• West Ham won the reverse fixture 4-1 in August, and are looking to
do the double over Forest for the first time since the 1968/69 top-flight
season.
• Forest have won only one of their last nine league trips to Upton
Park since 1987; 1-0 on New Years' Day 1997, in the Premier League.

West Ham United
• West Ham are vying to become the first club to reach 16 Championship
wins, which would put them top of the table for the first time this season.
• They are one of three clubs with a 100% record in this division in
2012.
• The Hammers are boasting the meanest defence in the second tier (23
goals conceded) and an unrivalled 32 points have been picked up from the 12
games in which clean sheets were kept.

Nottingham Forest
• Third-bottom Forest, two points from safety, have lost an unequalled
16 Championship matches; 11 against current top-half clubs.
• The 3-1 win at Ipswich on 2 January is their only victory and only
goals in 11 in all competitions.
• They have picked up 16 points out of a possible 48 under Steve
Cotterill.

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£6m Jelavic bid would not tempt Rangers - Ally McCoist
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 17:49 GMT, Friday, 20 January 2012

A £6m offer would fall far short of Rangers' valuation of Croatia striker
Nikica Jelavic, according to manager Ally McCoist. McCoist was responding to
reports that West Ham counterpart Sam Allardyce had made such a bid. "They
have not made an official bid," said McCoist about the Scottish champions'
top scorer. "The reported amount would not be enough to meet the demands of
the owner - £6m is not nearly enough." Rangers rejected a £6.5m offer from
Leicester City for Jelavic in the summer and claimed they also rebuffed a
£9m approach from an unnamed club shortly before the closure of the transfer
window. Jelavic later revealed that he had turned down overtures from
Turkish outfit Fenerbahce but admitted ambitions to play in England's top
flight. Some Friday reports suggested that informal talks had begun with
Allardyce's Championship club. However, McCoist suggested that no bids -
from West Ham or any other club - had been tabled since the January window
opened, despite much speculation about the striker's future. "I know Sam
very well and I think, if there was a real interest, he and I would have
spoken, but there has been no official bid made and I certainly haven't
spoken to anyone about it," he said.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jelavic interest genuine
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are understood to have held intial talks with Rangers with regards
to the acquisition of striker Nikica Jelavic. Rumours of a purported
£6million bid from West Ham for the 26-year-old Croat were dismissed earlier
in the day by Rangers boss Ally McCoist who claimed that, "£6million is not
nearly enough." But despite McCoist's comments, KUMB understands that talks
between the two clubs are ongoing. West Ham are thought to have made initial
contact more than a week ago and discussions have continued throughout the
week. The Croatian international joined Rangers in 2010 when making a
$4million move from Rapid Vienna. He scored 19 times from 31 appearances in
his first season in Scotland, whilst he has already scored 17 times this
term.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Take me to the top
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce has told his players to fire West Ham to the the top of the
Championship tomorrow. West Ham are currently neck and neck with Southampton
at the top of the tree having accred 50 points from their opening 26 matches
- just two points shy of Allardyce's two points-per-game target. And with
the Saints - who are above West Ham by virtue of a superior goal difference
(+22 to +18) not playing until Monday evening, a win against Nottingham
Forest at the Boleyn Ground would send United three points clear of their
closest rivals. "If we defeat Forest tomorrow we will go top of the
Championship for the first time this season," Allardyce said in his weekly
column for the ES. "At least until Monday when Southampton play Leicester.
"But there's still a clutch of clubs still in contention for promotion. All
we can do is look after ourselves and tomorrow's match provides us with that
extra incentive of going top." Forest will arrive in east London entrenched
in the bottom three of the Championship having won just one of their last
eleven games. The former European champions have also failed to score in
seven of their last eight outings. Steve Cotterill was appointed as the new
Forest boss in October. He was in charge of Portsmouth when they were beaten
4-3 by the Hammers at the Boleyn back in September, making him one of a
select few managers to have overseen two seperate teams at the BG in the
same season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United v Nottingham Forest
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 20th January 2012
By: Preview Percy

Next we entertain Nottingham Forest at the Boleyn in a 3pm kick-off this
Saturday. Lovely. Tubes? Well the Hammersmith & City is out, which will mean
a detour for visitors arriving at St Pancras. The bottom end of the District
is also out, though the section serving Upton Park and points East will be
open.

Our opponents this week, not to put too fine a point on things, are
struggling. They currently lie third from bottom with 24 points from 26
games. The team above them are Millwall who are two points clear of Forest
(with a much better goal difference despite last week's hilarious home
thrashing).

Current form is not impressive with one win (3-1 at Ipswich), one draw (0-0
at Bristol City) and four defeats (all at home to Southampton (0-3),
Peterborough, Cardiff and Palace (all 0-1)). coming from their last six. In
the cup they managed a goalless draw with Leicester who then walloped then
4-0 in the replay the other night. Only Millwall have a worse last six – and
that's only on goal difference with them having managed a solitary league
goal in that period.

For the second week running we face a side who have changed manager since we
last met. Steve Cotterill left last week's opponents in October to take over
at the City Ground from Steve McClaren, who recently returned to polish up
his comedy Dutch accent with FC Twente.

Cotterill isn't a total stranger to the city of Nottingham, though quite how
much of the place he saw during his three month spell at neighbours County a
while back is debatable. Those three months were enough, however, to see
County through to the League 2 title for 2009/10, though I suppose Forest
fans might forgive him for that if he can keep them up.

Forest's current position means that there is already talk that Cotterill
might not see out the season. A current conspiracy theory that suggests that
Mark Arthur, the club's Chief Executive, may be looking to return to
Nottinghamshire CCCC, his previous employer. Looking about at this web we
call "inter" it seems that few supporters would be too upset at that
prospect.

The follow-up to this theory goes that Arthur's departure would pave the way
for a return for former boss Billy Davies. Neil Warnock is also being linked
with the place should Cotterill fall on his sword (or be knifed in the
back). I suppose the appointment of Warnock would at least mean one thing:
should they be relegated it will be entirely somebody else's fault.

Cotterill, meanwhile, is presumably ignoring all the scuttlebutt and has
taken the step of boosting the coaching staff by appointing Sean O'Driscoll
as first team coach until the end of the season. O'Driscoll has been out of
work since Doncaster dispensed with his services, though he had been acting
"on an advisory basis" down at Plymouth Argyle.

As yet there's been little movement in on the player transfer front this
window – though the one arrival thus far is a familiar face – to both sides.
Marlon Harewood is now in his second spell at the club he left in 2003/04
when he joined the Hammers. He was instrumental in the side that gained
promotion in 2004/05 and reached the Cup Final in 2005/06. Since moving on
he's been about a bit, with Villa and Blackpool holding his full
registration, and Wolves, Newcastle & Barnsley all having him in on loan at
times.

Released by Blackpool at the end of last season he pitched up at Chinese
outfit Guangzhou who he helped to promotion during a six-month spell out
there. Returning to Blighty, he ended up training with Forest and impressed
enough to earn a short-term contract. He made his first start for Forest in
nine years in the 3-0 defeat at home to Southampton.

The squad's other former Hammer Chris Cohen will miss this match. Cohen, who
set up Forest's goal in our 4-1 win at the City Ground, picked up a nasty
cruciate knee ligament injury in September's Brian Clough Cup defeat to
Derby. He'll be out not only for the rest of the season but for a good
couple of months next term as well.

The Southampton defeat proved costly in more ways than one. The dismissal of
skipper Luke Chambers for a referee-imagined elbowing offence means that
he'll be serving a ban this weekend, Cotterill having (probably wisely)
decided that appealing against a decision using a system inherently designed
to back-up refereeing incompetence would be a waste of time.

Chambers' absence has left them a bit short in defence. It had been hoped
that Wes Morgan would be available for firstly the Southampton match, then
the Leicester Cup match following an ankle injury sustained against Palace
back in early December. Similarly, right back Brendan Moloney was pencilled
in for a return following a knee injury.

However, in the event neither was selected – possibly with one eye on the
club's league position and another on this weekend's match. This meant that
midfielder Guy Moussi was co-opted into the centre of defence against
Leicester – the 4-0 reverse tells its own story as to how successful that
was. Look to see one or both of Morgan and Moloney co-opted in on Saturday
if either is able to pull on a pair of those carpet slippers they laughingly
call "boots" these days.

The injury problems at the back have led to a reported trial for
English-born Andy Iro who is currently on the books at MLS side Toronto FC.
There have been rumours that Iro is on his way out of Canada, though whether
this would be on a loan deal or something more permanent is far from clear.
Either way there has been the odd raised eyebrow amongst the Toronto
faithful at the idea that Iro might be of the required standard, with the
player being described by one source as being "loveable but clumsy".

The official line is that there will be no money for new signings this
window, unless, of course, a few bob can be raised from sales. Middlesbrough
were said to be sniffing around striker Ishmail Miller – another current
absentee whose broken metatarsal seems to have pre-dated the current trend
to refer to such injuries merely as broken toes. The other asset about whom
"discreet enquiries" are said to have been made is defender Chris Gunther,
though the wisdom of flogging one of the few fit defenders you have
available to you is questionable to say the least.

"What news of us?" I hear you ask. Well team availability is similar to last
week. Demel and Taylor are still on the sick list though both have trained
with the first team squad this week. A spot on the bench for either/both
might be the more prudent option given that our past habit of rushing people
back from injury hasn't been the most productive of tactics over the years.

We now have extra cover for the central defensive positions with the arrival
of George John, initially on loan, from FC Dallas. John isn't one I'd expect
to see an awful lot of initially unless we get another injury crisis. It
would have been interesting to see the player's reaction on arriving at the
Boleyn for the first time if only to see his reaction to having a home
ground not called Pizza Hut Park.

There was much gnashing of teeth and wringing of hands over the manner of
the victory at Pompey. For the first few minutes we did take the game to
them. However we did revert to away match stereotype as the game wore on,
particularly after we had taken the lead.

Once the sending-off had happened we did much of what you need to do against
ten men – we spread the game well across the pitch – but failed to look for
anything incisive. The manager has referred to various chances during the
match that, had we taken them, would have made the score look a bit nicer.
However, with the possible exception of Collison's post-shaver, most of
those so-called chances consisted of hopeful efforts hit high into the crowd
(Nolan & McCartney leap to mind).

A more meaningful stat might be to consider how many saves that Pompey's
'keeper had to make. I have no idea what the answer is to that one but I
wouldn't imagine that it's large number. Playing the match out without
picking up the second goal can, of course, leave you open to late goals and
two dubiously-awarded free-kicks at Fratton Park could well have seen Pompey
pinch a point had they been better at set pieces -making us pay for the
earlier lack of ambition.

For this one I'd expect the manager to consider this to be a "two up front"
or maybe even a "proper three" match which will see a welcome start for
Baldock alongside Cole. As for a third striker, should the manager elect to
play that route neither Piquionne nor Carew seem to be in the boss's good
books at present which may be good news for Nouble.

Prediction – well I got last week right, somehow (though we'll gloss over
the bit where I though this week's opponents might give Southampton a few
problems). When you look at this from a dispassionate point of view we will
be up against a team with a makeshift defence, probably containing a mixture
of out of position and half-fit players. They've been struggling in any case
so you'd expect this to be a romp.

We are, of course, West Ham, and nothing is ever that simple for us. I still
think we'll win but we'll be made to work for it I suspect. An early goal
followed by 80 minutes of frustration followed by a late goal I reckon. So
2-0 to us which would see us clear at the top at least until Monday night
when Southampton entertain Leicester.

Enjoy the game!

When last we met: We came away from the City Ground with a 4-1 win back in
September, goals from Chambers (og) Nolan, Cole & Reid giving us the points,
Finlay netting for Forest to make it 3-1. It wasn't quite as comfortable as
the score suggests and Forest did have their chances. It was, however, much
more comfortable than our 3-2 win at the Boleyn just over a year ago as an
Obinna hat-trick saw us struggle to a 3-2 win in the cup.

Referee: Tony Bates. Handled the 1-0 win over Peterborough. Was supposed to
be in charge of the away trip to Middlesbrough but cried off for some
unexplained reason (The Paolo Syndrome as I believe it's known). This will
be his second time in charge of one of our matches.

Danger man: Marlon Harewood. The law of the "ex" doesn't always apply – I've
seen the chap the bloke behind me at away matches used to 'hilariously' call
"Marlene" miss sitters against us in the past. However, I still have a nasty
suspicion that there's a goal against us in him somewhere.

Daft Fact Of The Week: The name Nottingham comes from the old Saxon meaning
"the home of Snot's people". The town should really therefore be called
"Snottingham". Snot's original settlement is where the City's lace market is
situated these days. Presumably the market specialises in handkerchiefs.

Stat man John: Northcutt's corner

Seeing red

1996-97: Mark Rieper (a)
1990-91: Tony Gale (FA Cup semi final)

They Played For Both

Chris Cohen; Jim Barrett; Marlon Harewood; Gary Charles; Stuart Pearce;
Horace Biggin; Franz Carr; Colin Foster; Ian Moore; Lee Chapman; Justin
Fashanu; Peter Shilton; Fred Wallbanks; Paul Konchesky; Adam Nowland; Teddy
Sheringham; Ian Wright.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v N Forest preview
Last updated: 20th January 2012
SSN

Team news for Saturday afternoon's Championship clash between West Ham and
Nottingham Forest at Upton Park. West Ham have no new injury worries for the
visit of Forest. Abdoulaye Faye returned from a thigh problem to be on the
bench at Portsmouth last weekend and should be involved again, while fellow
defender George John could be added to the squad following his recent loan
switch from FC Dallas. Midfielder Matt Taylor has returned to training
following six weeks out with a calf injury and, although he will not be
ready for the weekend, has been pencilled for a return at the end of the
month. Defender Guy Demel is the only other absentee with a thigh injury.
Striker Sam Baldock could return to partner Carlton Cole if boss Sam
Allardyce opts for two up front at home.

Marcus Tudgay is expected to return to the Forest squad. Tudgay did not
travel as the Reds crashed out of the FA Cup to Midlands rivals Leicesteron
Tuesday night, but the striker should be involved in east London. Fellow
forwards Matt Derbyshire, Garath McCleary, David McGoldrick and Dexter
Blackstock and midfielders Lewis McGugan and Radoslaw Majewski will come
into contention for starts following the dismal 4-0 defeat at the King Power
Stadium. Manager Steve Cotterill has no new injury or suspension problems
ahead of the fixture against the npower Championship's joint leaders.
Captain Luke Chambers will serve the second game of a three-match ban while
fellow centre-half Wes Morgan (ankle), midfielder Chris Cohen (knee) and
striker Ishmael Miller (foot) remain sidelined through injury.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers make Jelavic contact
West Ham speak to Rangers, but no bid made
Last Updated: January 20, 2012 8:29pm
SSN

Sky Sports sources understand West Ham have contacted Rangers about prolific
striker Nikica Jelavic. Hammers co-owner David Sullivan is believed to have
spoken with Gers' owner Craig Whyte, although no bid has been tabled. The
promotion-chasing Championship outfit are keen to bolster their attacking
options for the push to the Premier League and have targeted the Croatia
international. Earlier on Friday manager Ally McCoist stated the Scottish
champions had not received anything official. However, talks are now
understood to have taken place concerning the 26-year-old, who has proved an
excellent signing after joining from Rapid Vienna in August 2010, scoring 30
SPL goals in 44 appearances. Jelavic was the subject of a failed £6.5million
bid from Leicester in August and has also been linked with Liverpool and
QPR.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sagbo waiting on offers
Evian forward open to English switch but is yet to receive a bid
By Patrick Haond. Last Updated: January 20, 2012 3:47pm
SSN

Yannick Sagbo has reiterated his desire to secure a move to England, but
admits nothing will happen until an official approach is received. The Evian
forward was recently linked with a switch to West Ham, and he openly
admitted to being interested in such a deal. Numerous other clubs are also
reported to be keeping a close eye on the Ivory Coast international, with
the 23-year-old claiming that Tottenham are among them. He is, however,
still waiting for contact to be made by any of the supposedly interested
parties, with there having been no movement as yet during the January
transfer window. "Am I attracted by a move to England? Of course," Sagbo
told France Football.

Future

"I have always loved that league, but I am waiting for concrete propositions
before I make a decision. "I am fully committed to Evian at the moment but
if an interesting offer arrives, we would look to talk with the club
officials. "I have not spoken about my future with them as yet, but they
know that I would like to leave. The best situation would be for me to move
in the summer. "But, if a club like Tottenham or West Ham look to sign me,
it would be an amazing opportunity. I don't want to miss my chance."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCoist hammers out warning
Croatia international is being monitored by English clubs
Last Updated: January 20, 2012 3:41pm
SSN

Rangers manager Ally McCoist has warned West Ham they will not get Nikica
Jelavic on the cheap. The 26-year-old has been linked with Liverpool and
more recently the Hammers after netting 17 goals in 31 games this season. It
is a record that has seen Rangers place a high premium on the Croatia
international's value, while the speculation around him continues to grow.
English Championship side West Ham have so far been frustrated in their
search to land a striker after Huddersfield rebuffed their bids for Jordan
Rhodes. And McCoist maintains that if they want to lure the in-form marksman
to Upton Park, they will have to stump up the cash and dismissed rumours
they had already made a bid. "They have not made an official bid," he said.
"The reported amount would not be enough to meet the demands of the owner;
£6million is not nearly enough."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
A Deal that Shows Ambition and an Eye to the Future!
January 21st, 2012 - 12:53 am by S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

The speculation on West Ham's alleged transfer targets continues apace. It
has ranged from Huddersfield's Jordan Rhodes to veterans like Bolton's Kevin
Davies and through to the latest rumours concerning our supposed interest in
Jelavic at Rangers. However, one mooted deal that does stand out for me is
the bid for Watford's Marvin Sordell. Sordell is an U-21 England
international, who can either play wide or as an out and out striker. He
has the stamp of quality about him, together with the tools to perform not
only this season in the Championship, but also (hopefully) next season in
the PL. I have seen watching his progress at Watford and he is strong,
possesses pace and has shown the ability to finish clinically. Sordell is
not the finished product, far from it, but he is ready and able to do a good
job at this level. The real test for him would be adapting to the different
requirements of the PL, but we can have every expectation that he could be
successful in making the transition. For me, it is a deal that ticks all
the boxes. It would show ambition and an eye to the future.

On occasions this season, Sam Allardyce has been criticised for allegedly
not trusting sufficiently in youth and relying too much on the likes of
Faye, McCartney, Diop and even Nolan. Well, the fact is that having a core
of such experienced players is essential. They have been there, done it
and have the battles honours to prove it. I personally agree with those who
have argued that Montano should have been retained in the squad, and given
his chance on the left flank, with the prolonged injury absence of Matt
Taylor. In contrast, it probably has to be admitted that the likes of Lee,
Brown and Nouble were not ready for the first team and the decision to loan
them out was correct. As Allardyce stated recently on TV, nothing aids the
development of youngsters like going out on loan and experiencing first
team football. Yes, you are looking for them to learn whilst on loan, but
you also want to see prospects shining at a lower level of football. Thus,
demonstrating their promise and the fact that they are ultimately a 'cut or
two above.' In that respect, the likes of Montano, Hall, Lee and, now,
George Moncur have done just that; while Frank Nouble came on significantly
during his last loan period at Gillingham. The really worrying sitation is
where prospects do not deliver the goods whilst on loan. And there are one
or two that currently fall in to that category.

Anyway, I digress slightly, we have substantial experience in this squad and
that has stood us in good stead at times this season. However, I do feel
that it also affords us the opportunity to sign a younger players like
Sordell. The names being mentioned for an exit this January usually include
Piquionne, Carew and Sears. Of these, Piquionne is probably most likely to
depart; whilst Carew is almost certain to be retained this season. As for
Freddie Sears, well the lad's situation has certainly proven to be
something of a enigma. He has a very good goal scoring record at youth and
reserve team level, but has largely disappointed at first team level and
whilst on loan. He originally looked to be a natural penalty box poacher,
but more recently has been played wide right, with varying degrees of
success. As a result, some fans have run out of patience and have openly
called for him to be sold. Well, I suppose we might need a part-exchange
'sweetner' to oil the wheels of a deal for Marvin Sordell, and perhaps Sears
could figure in the equation? Although it does not necessarily have to be a
permanent deal, it could be a longer-term loan arrangement to see whether
Sears might be something of a 'late developer.' I would favour a long term
loan, myself, as I feel that Sears needs to secure regular first team
football somewhere to prove once and for all if he has what it takes?
Although others would no doubt conclude that he has had his chances and its
time to cash in!

Finally, we should be looking for a healthy victory at home to Notts Forest
this afternoon. Hopefully, we can win by at least a two goal margin, of say
2-0 or 3-1. Here's hoping, COYI!

ps. Thanks to Bradez for his helpful and informative transfer window
updates, keep up the good work.

pps. And a concluding thought for Dylan Tombides, an outstanding Hammers
youth product, who has undergone treatment for testicular cancer. Recent
reports have suggested that he now requires further treatment for his
condition. Lets pray that it is merely a temporary set back in his recovery
back to health, fitness and a successful football career.

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is Nikita Jelavic really worth £9m???
January 20th, 2012 - 9:57 pm by Bradley Palmer
West Ham Till I Die

So this evening we were all informed from Sky Sports News that West Ham had
opened discussion with Rangers for top goal scorer Jelavic to make the move
down south to our boys in claret and blue. Ever since the news had been
broadcasted, tweeters went crazy. Adzman immediately contacted his famous
ClungeWhu and tweeted that we WILL bid for Jelavic on monday. This fee is
believed to be around the £9m mark.

Now Jelavic undoubtedly has an incredible goals per game ratio with the
scottish outfit scoring 30 goals in 44 appearances since arriving at
Rangers. Before this he scored 25 goals in 75 games for Rapid Vienna so it
is clear that with age, he is improving. At only 26 years of age and stands
at 6ft 2inches tall, he would certainly strike us all as a player Big Sam
would identify. But is he worth £9m. In the short term, I would say
undoubtedly yes. In the long run, I cant be completely sure.

The Scottish League in my opinion is a very similar standard of play to the
Championship. And with his record of goals, he would certainly do the
business up top to get us the goals we need to get promoted. However, IF we
are to gain promotion, either automatically or via the dreaded play offs,
will Jelavic rise to the occasion and be the Demba Ba type player for us on
the big stage. Anyone remember Savio Nsereko. We payed a similar fee for
that young lad who we were led to believe would be a superstar. And look
what happened. I don't blame him as a player but the club for investing such
a high amount for a player with no premiership experience. Will be very
interesting to see how Jelavic would cope if he were to sign for us.

In other news, Adzman has further stated that an offer of £5m from Stoke for
Tomkins was immediately rejected with Tomkins set to sign a new 5 year deal
with a high increase in his wage package from £14,000 a week to £34,000 a
week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers can be cream of crop
By EMILY FAIRBAIRN
Published: Today
The Sun

DAVID SULLIVAN and David Gold this week celebrate their second anniversary
as West Ham owners. And manager Sam Allardyce wants to give them the perfect
present — by taking the Hammers top of the Championship. Big Sam's boys will
reach the summit with victory over struggling Nottingham Forest. And
Allardyce insists his relationship with the owners could not be better —
despite his initial fears about their outspoken reputation. He explained: "I
think that reputation has put them in the wrong context because I had that
impression before I came. "But I have found them not to be like what they've
perhaps portrayed themselves and what they've said in the media." Sullivan
and Gold, who made their fortune in the porn industry, have a history of
clashes with managers, including Allardyce's predecessor Avram Grant, who
was sacked as Hammers boss one season into a four-year contract. During
their 16-year reign at Birmingham City, the pair faced accusations of
interfering because of their frequent public criticism of managers, players
and even fans. But Allardyce defended his bosses, saying: "The media have
caught them when they have been disappointed with what's happening at their
club and they've made a statement that has created some headlines. "I
haven't found them to be like that yet — and I certainly hope it continues
that way for some time. It's been a good working relationship between myself
and David Sullivan particularly, and David Gold, whenever he wants to come
in. "Whether that changes if we had a bad run of results and the pressure
comes on, I don't know. It may do, it may not."
Allardyce says he has the owners' full support when it comes to transfers —
and was wowed by how quickly they closed the deal for midfielder Kevin
Nolan. Big Sam said: "I went away and I got a phone call 48 hours later
saying, 'Come and meet Kevin'. They said, 'He's here, it's done'. It is
magnificent in terms of making a statement on what we wanted to do. I
haven't experienced that before."

Like all good relationships, Allardyce says theirs is built on good
communication. He added: "The biggest factor is how do we communicate for
the good of the football club. How do we go about doing our jobs in a very
difficult industry and making sure that we work as harmoniously as we can."
Today Allardyce has the chance to reward Gold and Sullivan's gamble on West
Ham, which they bought while it was £110million in debt. They can overhaul
leaders Southampton today — at least until the Saints host Leicester on
Monday. Allardyce said: "Most of this season we have climbed the mountain
and then we've just slipped off the peak, and just slid back down slightly
again. "What we can do this time is stay on top of the peak of the mountain
and try and win the three points to get a little bit ahead of Southampton —
even for a short time."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's search for a striker takes them to the SPL
Ladbrokes.co.uk

The fact that Ally McCoist has had an offer rejected for Norwich striker
suggests that he is expecting Nikica Jelavic to leave the club in the
January transfer window.
Jelavic is the top scorer in the Scottish Premier League this season and his
14 goals have helped attract interest from a host of clubs in England. A
move to the Premier League seemed highly likely, with Liverpool one of the
clubs linked, alongside Fulham. However, it is Championship club West Ham
that have emerged as the slightly surprising front runners to secure his
signature. Sam Allardyce's desire to sign a striker is well documented, with
a £5m offer for Huddersfield hotshot Jordan Rhodes having already reportedly
been rebuffed in the current transfer window. Meanwhile, West Ham have also
been linked with Watford's Marvin Sordell and even a spectacular loan switch
to bring Carlos Tevez back to Upton Park. But it now seems that Jelavic has
moved to the head of the shortlist and it is reported that an offer of
around £6m has already been put on the table. Although Rangers value the
Croatian at closer to £10m, their need for money may force them into
accepting the offer, while it would also give them time in the transfer
window to seek a replacement.

Fulham should not be ruled out though, as Martin Jol knows the importance of
signing a striker, especially with the futures of Bobby Zamora and Andy
Johnson seemingly unclear. West Ham's odds are currently 1/1 to win the
Championship and a prolific striker would certainly do their challenge more
good than harm. After 26 games, Carlton Cole is their present top scorer
with just eight goals.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fulham and West Ham are understood to have bid around £6 million for the
Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic
By Jason Burt8:30PM GMT 20 Jan 2012 Comment
Telegraph.co.uk

Championship club West Ham — who are pushing for an immediate return to the
Premier League — are understood to have made the running in their attempts
to sign the Croatian. A bid of £5 million cash but £1 million based on
appearances is understood to have been submitted by West Ham who are keen to
bolster their attacking options and have been thwarted in their attempts to
sign Huddersfield Town's Jordan Rhodes or Cardiff City's Peter Whittingham.
If Jelavic was signed by West Ham it would be a clear sign of intent by the
owners, David Sullivan and David Gold, and also a significant fee for a club
outside of the Premier League. Fulham are also desperate to improve their
strike force with significant questions marks over the future of Bobby
Zamora and, more immediately, Andy Johnson who is out of contract this
summer. Rangers have suggested that £6 million would not be enough to
persuade them to sell Jelavic but West Ham will not go above that figure for
a player who remains relatively unproven.

Rangers claimed they rejected a bid of £6.5 million from Leicester City for
Jelavic last summer and also an offer of £9 million from an unnamed club
shortly before the transfer window closed. Jelavic later said that he had
rejected an approach from the Turkish club, Fenerbahce. Jelavic, 26, has
been a revelation this season in Scottish football, scoring 17 goals and
Rangers are understood to be considering replacements for him should a deal
be struck. Rangers have confirmed the signing of Swedish midfielder Mervan
Celik. The 21-year-old has joined the Scottish champions on a
three-and-a-half year deal after passing a medical earlier today. Celik was
a free agent after leaving GAIS and becomes Ally McCoist's first signing of
the January transfer window. Celik has been given the number 24 shirt last
worn by Madjid Bougherra but has not yet gained international clearance,
meaning he will not be available for Saturday's Clydesdale Bank Premier
League game against Aberdeen.
Meanwhile, Craig Brown has urged Aberdeen fans not to aim abuse at former
player Sone Aluko during this afternoon's Clydesdale Bank Premier League
game against Rangers.

The winger quit the Pittodrie club when his contract ended in the summer and
joined the Scottish champions in November. Aluko has impressed so far for
Rangers and is likely to be named in the team who welcome the Dons to Ibrox
this weekend. Brown said: "It is not uncommon to play against players who
used to play for you, that happens quite regularly and Sone is no exception.
"He is a popular guy and a likeable lad so I don't think there will be any
animosity. "There will be a determination, of course, to show that we are as
good as or better than he is. "I would ask the fans, although I don't think
the Aberdeen fans would be offensive to him, to not be critical because he
gave good service here. You've got to wish him well in his career and not be
churlish about it."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 20th January 2012

2012-01-20T07:02:00.001Z

Big Sam on Nottingham Forest
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is not taking the challenge of Nottingham Forest's visit to
the Boleyn Ground lightly
19.01.2012

Sam Allardyce was in upbeat mood as he faced the media before Saturday's
npower Championship visit of Nottingham Forest. Not only do his side have
the incentive of moving into top spot of the npower Championship with a win
or draw from the match, but his squad is near to full fitness once again as
both Matt Taylor and Guy Demel both trained fully on Friday. Although the
duo will not be ready for action against Steve Cotterill's side, their
involvement in training has given the West Ham United manager a further
boost ahead of what he thinks could be a tricky game at the Boleyn Ground.

How important was the victory at Portsmouth on Saturday?

SA: It was important because it kept us in touch wtih Southampton. It
increased the points tally ahead of the two teams that slipped up below us
in Middlesbrough and Cardiff. That is then significant in terms of the
points total that is between us and third and the fact we have stayed on
level points with Southampton. Then the extra spur this week is that if we
win we can go top for the first time this season be it maybe only for a
short stay as Southampton play on Monday. Let's make sure we achieve that
goal and let's get those very valuable three points again here at Upton
Park.

You had a difficult time over Christmas. Do you feel that is behind you now?

SA: It is from an injury point of view. There are players still tentatively
coming back who are not quite at their 100 per cent game performance but
that will come over the next few weeks. I think, particularly when we run
into the back end of February and early March, the games are going to come
very quickly. That is when we will need the full value of the squad to come
to fruition and make sure we get as many points as we can.

How tough will Forest be? Will it be a battle?

SA: They are on a poor run of results. We know that I have been complaining
about our lack of goals but their lack of goals is far greater than ours at
the moment. I saw them on Tuesday night against Leicester in the cup and at
half-time it should have been 2-2 - they had two of the best chances in the
game and didn't convert them. Eventually they will convert them but we want
to make sure it is not against us and we keep them away from our goal as
much as possible and then try and expose them. They might have a little bit
of a lack of confidence and we have to try and take advantage. We cannot
take them for granted and we must be at our best as always to win any game
of football in the Championship.

The transfer window has been slow so far. Any updates?

SA: No, nothing in the offing at the moment as hard as we are trying at this
time and in previous weeks. We always seem to run into a dead end based on
many different factors of why we can't find the player we are looking for.
Either the player doesn't want to come or the club doesn't want to sell him
or the fee of the player is too high or the loan agreement is not quite what
they want. There are so many different reasons for not acquiring what we are
looking for, so it has been exceedingly more difficult than I expected it to
be.

Are you looking for another striker?

SA: The good thing for us is that we are the strongest we have been for
probably 12 weeks or so. Even today, even though not available for selection
on Saturday, Guy Demel and Matt Taylor trained fully with the first-team
squad for the first time in a while, particularly Guy. He has only made one
appearance in the first team at Middlesbrough and one short appearance at
Reading and we haven't seen a lot of his talent. The good thing is he has
not been asked to go to the African Nations Cup because of his injury
problems which means he can break in as quickly as possible.

Matt has suffered from various calf problems which wasn't the real problem -
that lay in another area of his body. We seem to have cured that now and he
will be back with us very shortly. We have a good strong squad and like I
have said for a few games, the only problem we have at the moment is putting
the ball in the back of the net. We have still won games in the last few
matches but it does concern me that when the chances are created, we are not
converting enough.

Have you made any big-money bids and are any deals closer?

SA: At this moment in time, no. I think that as a football club the
Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold cannot do any more than they
have done to help us with another player in that department. We can't pay
silly money and we are already bidding the sort of money that is extremely
high for the division we are in. I have obviously great faith that we will
keep trying and get someone by the end of this window. We are doing our very
best, none more so than our Joint-Chairmen.
Even though we haven't pulled one off yet, I can only thank them for how
hard they have tried and how well they have backed it.

You have bought in George John and Joe Dixon in the past week. What are your
thoughts about them?

SA: Joe is one who has not been involved in too much football recently so
that is for way down the line and more the future than now. George is
obviously to make sure we don't suffer any more of the defensive problems we
had in November and December. We were playing a 17-year-old at left-back, a
left-back at centre-half and a centre-midfiled player at right back in one
game. It is to cover that side of our squad.

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Reid resolute for Hammers
WHUFC.com
New Zealand defender Winston Reid has settled into the Hammers side this
season
19.01.2012

Winston Reid is proving a handful at both ends of the pitch for West Ham
United. The likeable New Zealand defender has put his body on the line for
the Hammers this season and, going forward, has proved his worth by winning
two penalties in the last two matches. Reid has forged an impressive
partnership with James Tomkins, and the duo have helped the team to two
successive 1-0 wins in the npower Championship in 2012. They were also the
partnership back on 28 August when Reid scored his first goal of the season
in a 4-1 win away to Nottingham Forest. It is to be hoped he can come up
with a similar contribution for this Saturday's return at the Boleyn Ground.
Last weekend against Portsmouth, Reid was bundled over in the box by former
Hammers defender Tal Ben Haim to earn the spot-kick duly converted by Mark
Noble. He then helped the team weather the Pompey storm as they pushed for
an equaliser that never came at Fratton Park. "It was very important [to win
at Portsmouth]," he told West Ham TV. "Obviously it is a hard place to come.
They have a good home record so it was good to get the three points and a
clean sheet as well."

Of the penalty decision, he was certain it was the correct call. "I think we
played it into Nobby [Kevin Nolan] and he flicked it on. I was trying to
hold him off really. I felt I got out of balance and he pulled me over and
it was a penalty. "There were no complaints. The ref was in a good position
and everyone that could see it thought it was a penalty."

Having also been fouled for a penalty at Hillsborough in the FA Cup tie at
Sheffield Wednesday, Reid is certainly making his presence known in the
opposing area this season. However, he was modest when asked about his
forceful contribution. "I don't know, it is just a bit of luck. Tonks is
good in the air too and when Abdoulaye [Faye] is playing he is good as well.
"

What has been notable is the way Reid has thrown himself into action since
his return on New Year's Eve after two months out with a shoulder injury. He
admitted it had the potential to cause him a more serious problem.
"Obviously with the shoulder it was always going to be complicated because
if I didn't get it right this time and if it had popped out again I might
have had to have an operation and be out for six or seven months. "We took
our time with it. I have come through it pretty OK and my shoulder feels all
right. There is still some jittery moments but you have to get your head
around it and it is getting better."

Getting better is something that could be applied to Reid in summary of his
season so far, with the centre-back, still only 22, having settled down to
London life after a tough first campaign in 2010/11. Close attention from
Sam Allardyce has brought out the best in him. "Obviously when you get some
trust from the manager it is nice. My first season over here was difficult
but things are going better for me personally now. I am really happy and I
will keep looking forward to the rest of the season.
"It is not going to be easy but we have faith in our squad, the players we
have got and our strengths. So hopefully we can get promotion."

Key to that will be defensive strength and Reid is quick to praise the No1
who is helping keep things tight behind him - namely Robert Green. "That's
what you need at the back, you need a good keeper to save you. Greeny is
fantastic keeper and has done a great job throughout the whole season. We
are very fortunate to have him."

Competition for places will keep everyone on their toes and the Kiwi is not
worried that Big Sam has recently recruited 24-year-old George John from FC
Dallas to challenge his defenders. "It is always good to have a stronger
squad for competition. We have been a bit unlucky with injuries at the back
and had to rotate a little bit more than we probably wanted to. It is good
for the squad all round to have competition. I am sure George is going to be
a good player."

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Saints knockout Hammers interest
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 19th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham have had a bid for Southampton winger Jason Puncheon rejected,
according to reports. SSN report this lunchtime that West Ham approached
their Championship rivals with view to taking the 25-year0old on loan for
the remainder of the season. However it is reported that the Saints flatly
rejected United's offer - unsurprisingly perhaps given that the two clubs
are vying for promotion. The Croydon-born Puncheon began his career with MK
Dons before joining Barnet on a free in 2006. After two years at Underhill
he joined Plymouth in a £250,000 deal, but made just five league starts for
the Pilgrims during his two years on their books.
Puncheon spent much of those two seasons on loan at MK Dons, the club with
whom he started his career. Having impressed at Stadium mk during that time,
Southampton snapped the winger up on a free in 2010. Like at Plymouth,
Puncheon started well but within nine months he had been loaned to Millwall.
Further spells followed with Blackpool and QPR - with whom he was on loan
for the first half of this season, making just two substitute appearances.

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Hammers in Pole position?
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 19th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are being linked with a move for Ruch Chorzów striker Maciej
Jankowski. According to a report by gwizdek24.pl, West Ham have invited the
22-year-old forward to England for a trial. Jankowski is currently contacted
to Niebiescy, who have won the Polish championship on 14 occasions, until
2013. The number 7 has been an ever present for his club side this season,
having joined them from KS Piaseczno in 2010. He made his first appearance
for the Polish national team earlier this year. Rated at around £2million,
Jankowski is said to be interesting a number of Western European clubs. He
has scored six goals from his 16 appearances this season.

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Hammers fail with Puncheon bid
Southampton reject loan approach as interest mounts
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
January 19, 2012 12:54pm
SSN

Sky Sports understands that Southampton have turned down a loan bid from
Championship rivals West Ham United for Jason Puncheon. It is also
understood that Puncheon is wanted by two more of the Championship's
promotion contenders in the shape of Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace. Two
of the midfielder's former clubs Millwall and Blackpool are also keen as the
interest mounts. Puncheon began the year on loan at Queens Park Rangers, but
he has now returned to Southampton. And as he is not involved with their
first-team, he is anxiously looking to seal a move away from St Mary's.
Southampton are being inundated with requests, and they have rebuffed an
offer from West Ham to take him on loan with a view to a permanent deal.
Boro and Palace are also monitoring the situation, while Blackpool have seen
a cash offer rejected, with Southampton wanting in excess of £1million for
the 25-year-old.

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West Ham players plan T-shirt tribute for sick starlet Tombides
By NEIL ASHTON
Last updated at 11:14 PM on 19th January 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham players will wear T-shirts in support of academy star Dylan
Tombides on Staurday after he was told he needs an operation to remove
cancerous tumours.
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce approved the players' request to warm up in
specially designed T-shirts as a tribute to the young Australian before the
home Championship match with Nottingham Forest. Skipper Kevin Nolan, along
with senior players including Carlton Cole, made the request earlier this
week. The striker, who came through the ranks at West Ham, will have an
operation to remove cancerous cells in his lymph glands next week. Tombides,
who signed his first professional contract at Upton Park last summer, was
originally diagnosed with testicular cancer during the Under 17 World Cup in
June and has since been having chemotherapy. He had been making progress and
hoped to return to training towards the end of last year. But he suffered a
setback just before Christmas and requires the operation urgently. Tombides,
whose brother is also in the Hammers academy, has been treated at St
Bartholomew's Hospital in London throughout his ordeal. He is still
determined to fight back and his team-mates, along with Allardyce and club
officials, have been fully supportive in his battle.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 19th January 2012

2012-01-19T07:01:00.001Z

FA Youth Cup date set
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U18s will travel to Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup fifth round on 15 February 2012
18.01.2012

West Ham United will travel to Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup fifth round on 15 February 2012. The last-16 fixture will take place at Staines Town FC, with a quarter-final place up for grabs to the winner. Kick-off at Wheatsheaf Park is at 7pm. Tickets will be priced £3 for Adults and Seniors and £1 for Under-16s. West Ham have reached the fifth round courtesy of fine victories at Wolverhampton Wanderers (3-2) and at home to Brighton and Hove Albion (4-1). Chelsea, meanwhile, defeated Doncaster Rovers (2-1) before prevailing in a penalty shootout against Norwich City following a goalless draw at Carrow Road. The Hammers have won the FA Youth Cup on three occasions and finished as runners-up four times, while Chelsea have also lifted the trophy three times, the most recent success being as recent as 2010.

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Hammers chance for Dixon
WHUFC.com
Striker Joe Dixon has joined West Ham United on a short-term deal
18.01.2012

Young forward Joe Dixon is to spend two months with West Ham United after signing a short-term contract. The 22-year-old is set to initially go into Ian Hendon's development squad in the hope of catching the eye at Chadwell Heath. He has enjoyed an interesting career to date, having started out as a trainee at Manchester United. Upon being released, he headed to Romania as an 18-year-old and played for then top-flight club Gloria Buzau.

However, he was soon on the move again after financial difficulties led to Gloria's relegation and he ended up in Turkey. While playing for second-tier Kartalspor, he caught the eye of Fenerbahce but a hoped-for move to the Turkish giants was cut short when Dixon picked up a groin injury. The Londoner returned to England and made three appearances for Ryman League side Grays Athletic in November. "I'm very happy to have signed for West Ham," he told whufc.com. "It's a big club with a lot of history. It's good to be here and I'm looking forward to starting. "I've been to the training ground and I met the manager and some of the players. The manager has got a lot of experience so I'm sure I can learn a lot from him. "A lot of the players are experienced too so I'm sure I can learn a lot from them as well. For me it's just about learning and improving as much as I can. I need some time before I'm ready and hopefully it can happen as quickly as possible."

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The Big Interview
WHUFC.com
As he approaches six years at the Boleyn Ground, Carlton Cole looks back on his 50 goals to date
18.01.2012

Carlton Cole is having a season to remember in West Ham United colours. The club's second-longest serving player after homegrown Mark Noble, Cole is a proud Hammer through and through. His passion for the cause, hard work and commitment have marked him out as a fans' favourite worthy of his own song. He recently reached a half-century of goals in claret and blue and is now targeting another ten to get on to the all-time top 20 list of West Ham scorers. First and foremost, is his determination to fire the Hammers to promotion back to the Premier League. He has eight to his name so far this campaign. Now 28, Cole has been leading the line to distinction for the Hammers since his debut against Charlton Athletic back in August 2006. He sat down with whufc.com to talk through his favourite strikes, his best partner and his role as a senior pro

How good was it to score your 50th goal [against Birmingham City]?

CC: It was really good. Obviously the result on the day wasn't what we wanted but to get my 50th goal in West Ham colours was brilliant.

Did you know the milestone was coming up?

CC: I have never really been focused on just me. I have just been focused on the team doing well. When I got to that milestone I didn't know but it is a real privilege to do that in a West Ham shirt.

It is a team game but obviously as a striker, scoring goals is important for you?

CC: I am a team player and put the team before myself. Hopefully in the foreseeable future, I will do the same but not a lot of people have scored 50 goals so I am very happy and privileged.

Do you remember your first West Ham United goal?

CC: I remember my first goal. It was a really good day, It was a nice sunny day playing against Charlton and it was my debut. I came on and I scored with one of my first touches. That was a good start to my goal tally. It was a dream debut. It broke the ice with the fans and it sometimes takes time to score goals for a new club so I was happy it came straight away.

What is your top three in West Ham colours?

CC: I quite like my Manchester City goal away a couple of years back [20 January 2008]. It was an overhead kick, reaction kind of goal and I do like my Tottenham goal [23 August 2009]. That was left footed from outside the box and was really good.
I also like the Wigan goal [4 March 2009] just for the all-round build-up play and the finish at the end was really good. They are up there in my top three but any goal for a striker is a good goal, whether it comes off your head, shoulder, chest, knee or even arm if the referee doesn't see it!
Any goal is good for the team, especially if it puts us on the way to winning the game

You just need ten more to get on the top 20 all-time West Ham scorers.

CC: Hopefully I can get to that as soon as possible. If I could do it this season, it would get me up near the 20 mark for the season which would be good for the club. If I can do that and a few of the other players are up there as well that would be good for us in the league as well. That is my main target.
Aside from the forwards at the club now, who is your favourite strike partner over the years?

CC: Over the years, I probably enjoyed playing with Craig Bellamy, because he had vast experience, his running and his energy. He used to talk me through games so I learnt a lot from him. It looked as if he was a moany person but he wasn't. He would only moan if something really happened that he wanted to have a go at. That is what you expect from another team-mate. They want you to do well. He encouraged me to get the best out of me.

You are one of the senior players now and the roles have reversed?

CC: Now I have to do that to the young players here now, the roles have changed and I am one of the senior pros. I have to help them along in the game as well because that is what they need.

How does that make you feel?

CC: It is nice to be one they look up to. I am privileged to be giving advice to them. We have some good players coming through and I am still getting advice from the players who are more senior to me. I am still learning every day. I need to do that as well. I give my advice because they need it at this level, you need to learn a few things. Young Pottsy is coming through, he has needed some help on his first outings - first away, first home. Even players like Jack Collison still need guidance but he is doing well.

Have you ever thought about having a trademark goal celebration?

CC: I don't really have one. My celebration is after the game, and before that we just have to make sure we win the game. I do like to run to the fans and share it with them. When I score a goal, I just want everyone to enjoy it. We have to all celebrate goals together. It is all about the team being in a winning posiiton, that is the main thing.

And what of the future? More Carlton Cole goals?

CC: Hopefully I can notch in the games coming up. We will see what happens. I am aiming for wins every time I play. That is the most important thing.

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Noble aim for Olympics
WHUFC.com
Five West Ham United players are in contention for a place in this summer's Olympic Games
18.01.2012

West Ham United could be represented at the 2012 Olympic Games with five players in contention for provisional squads. Team GB bosses have written to Mark Noble, James Tomkins, Jack Collison and Robert Hall to ask if they would like to be considered for the squad, with all four expressing an interest in taking part. The quartet form part of a long list of potential Team GB players, which will eventually be whittled down to make manager Stuart Pearce's final party of 18 players.

United States Under-23 midfielder Sebastian Lletget has also been involved in his country's recent Olympic training camps. The Amercians still have to play a qualifying tournament against other CONCACAF teams on home soil in March and April in order to secure a place in London. Special rules for the Olympics stipulate that only three players over the age of 23 can be selected as part of a final squad. Tomkins, Hall and Lletget will all still be eligible as under-age players, while Noble and Collison will both be classed as over-age players if selected. The final squads must be submitted to FIFA by 9 July.

Former England U21 captain Noble said: "Obviously I would be very proud to represent Great Britain in the Olympics, as I am sure the other lads would be as well. It would be a great honour. I have always been really proud to represent my country before and this would be another proud moment for me. "At the moment all we know is that we could be selected but there is a process to go through first so we don't know if we will be chosen, but to be in the hat possibly is a great thing. "With the Olympics also being in London, it gives it an extra attraction - as everyone knows, it is right on our doorstep and I am sure our fans are excited about the Olympics being here as well; it should be an exciting time for London. Being a London club, it is right in our community."

The tournament takes place between 16 July - 11 August with matches played at Wembley, City of Coventry Stadium, Hampden Park, Millennium Stadium, Old Trafford and St James' Park.

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On This Day: 18 January
West Ham United goalkeepers Robert Green and Jim Standen feature in today's look back
18.01.2012
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On This Day: 18 January
Anniversary
Robert Green
Date of birth: 18 January 1980
National team: England
Clubs: Norwich City, West Ham United

Unerringly consistent, Robert Green has long been considered as one of the finest goalkeepers in England. Born in Chertsey, Woking FC fan Green joined Norwich City as an aspiring young player, working his way through the ranks before making his debut in the East Anglian derby against Ipswich Town - a game that he marked with a clean sheet. He would go on to make 241 appearances for City in all competitions, helping Norwich to win the Championship title in 2004.

Green went on to become hugely popular at Carrow Road and there were very few Canaries supporters happy to see him make the switch to West Ham United in August 2006. Since his arrival at the Boleyn Ground, Green has become equally popular, impressing supporters and pundits alike with his agile shot-stopping and near-faultless handling.

Those qualities earned Green a first England cap as a substitute in a friendly against Colombia during the national side's tour of the United States in May 2005, and he would go on to represent his country at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Green's heroics were also rewarded with the coveted Hammer of the Year award in 2007/08, while he finished runner-up in 2008/09 and 2010/11 - a measure of the huge esteem in which he is held by Hammers fans.

Classic Match
West Ham United 1-0 Liverpool
First Division
18 January 1964

West Ham United went into this match against title-chasing Liverpool 17th in the First Division table and staring at a long, hard winter fighting against relegation. With just one win in their previous ten league games, Ron Greenwood's side had dropped from the top of the table after four fixtures to well down the bottom half with 26 of their 42 matchescompleted.

Thankfully, just three weeks on from the Hammers' infamous 8-2 Boxing Day defeat at Blackburn Rovers, Johnny Byrne ensured both he and Greenwood would have plenty to smile about as Liverpool were beaten at the Boleyn Ground.

Heroes of the day were forward Byrne himself, who scored a fine 28th-minute goal, and goalkeeper Jim Standen, who made a superb late save to deny Roger Hunt an equaliser for the Reds. In between, the home defence, expertly led by Bobby Moore, produced an outstanding display to keep Bill Shankly's team at bay.
Come the end of the season, Liverpool would finish as champions - four points ahead of nearest rivals Manchester United - while Greenwood would guide West Ham to the safe waters of 14th position and, more famously, their first ever FA Cup success.

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West Ham United bring in forward Joe Dixon
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 09:55 GMT, Wednesday, 18 January 2012

West Ham have signed forward Joe Dixon on a two-month deal and he will go into their development squad. The 22-year-old former Manchester United trainee has played in Romania and Turkey for Gloria Buzau and Kartalspor respectively. His most recent club were Isthmian League Division One North side Grays, where he made three substitute appearances in November. He told the Hammers website: "I need some time before I am ready."

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London 2012: Fourth arrest over Spurs spy claims
BBC.co.uk
A fresh application process has been launched to find a sporting tenant for the Olympic Stadium

A fourth suspect has been arrested by detectives investigating allegations that Tottenham Hotspur spied on Olympic officials during its stadium bid. Police said a 45-year-old man was being held at a south London station on suspicion of fraud after his property was searched. West Ham United and the Olympic Park Legacy Company allege information was unlawfully obtained, the force said. Spurs has denied putting officials under surveillance. The club had lost out to West Ham in the race to become the Olympic Park Legacy Company's (OPLC) first choice to move into the stadium after the 2012 Games. A deal with West Ham and Newham Council to use the stadium in Stratford, east London, collapsed in October. The government announced that the stadium would instead remain in public ownership.

Challenges by Tottenham and Leyton Orient, plus an anonymous complaint to the European Commission, had led to fears that court action could drag on for years while the stadium remained empty. A new tender process is being launched by the OPLC and the showpiece venue will now remain in public ownership and rented out to an anchor tenant. Three other men, aged 29, 39 and 57, have been arrested in recent months during the inquiry by the Metropolitan Police's Economic and Specialist Crime Command. They have been bailed to return to a south London police station in February, police said.

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What's your goal?
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 18th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham vice chairman Karren Brady and former professional footballer Robbie Savage have teamed up to lead a 'Dream Team' of eleven high profile football experts to launch npower's 'What's Your Goal? 2012'. What's Your Goal? is a nationwide work experience scheme designed to inspire young people to explore the vast and varied careers found in our national sport. Working in partnership with the Football League Trust, npower is seeking to support young people's employment opportunities for the future, by showcasing the wide range of job opportunities available within football and demonstrating that you don't have to be the star player on the field to make your mark within the industry. What's Your Goal? 2012 will see npower work with all 72 clubs in the Football League to offer over 300 valuable work experience placements to school children in years 10–11 in their local areas. In addition to these exciting placements, npower is also offering the nation's young people the chance to win the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend a day being mentored by the WYG 'Dream Team'. Children in Years 7–11 are invited to apply for the chance to gain first-hand experience of working life by spending time with high profile experts such as Karren Brady and Robbie Savage and trying out their jobs for themselves!

Having proved their worth after submitting a CV and video evidence demonstrating their enthusiam, 11 young people will be chosen to take on roles such as being a pundit with Robbie Savage at the npower Championship Play Offs, helping Karren Brady make boardroom decisions at West Ham and putting a team of professional players through their paces working as first team coach with Paul Trollope at Birmingham City.

"npower's What's Your Goal? 2012 is a fantastic way to show young people that you don't need to score goals to shoot to the top in the football industry," said Brady. "Whether you're passionate about business, photography, presenting or refereeing the nation's favourite sport, this scheme offers young people a great way to learn skills from the best in the business.

"I've never played professional football but I've managed to create a successful career by working hard and taking my chances when they arose. This industry is full of opportunities, as long as you work hard."

Clare McDougall, npower's head of education and community, added: ""It's really hard out there for young people at the moment and this campaign can help get young people thinking 'what is my goal? With mentors like Karren Brady we really are giving young people the opportunity of a lifetime – to shadow people who are the top of their game, who know the football business better than anyone."

Footballing names such as Sir John Madejski, Malky MacKay and Sasa Ihringova, the Football League's most senior female referee, have also come on board to offer their time to support the initiative.

Making up the rest of the Dream Team is Liam Sweeting, match analyst at Blackpool FC; Paul Redman, TV producer for The Football League Show; John Sibley, match photographer; Clare Tomlinson, TV presenter for Sky Sports and Simon Boynton, website publisher at Digital Sports Group.

To enter, students are asked to fill out a job application, downloadable at www.npower.com/whatsyourgoal.

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Hammers land young striker
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 18th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

West Ham have signed former Manchester United trainee Joe Dixon on a free transfer. The 22-year-old forward, who made his way to east London via Romania and Turkey has been given a two-month contract in order to give the club a chance to run the rule over him. "I'm very happy to have signed for West Ham," Dixon told whufc.com. "It's a big club with a lot of history. "It's good to be here and I'm looking forward to starting. I've been to the training ground and I met the manager and some of the players. The manager has got a lot of experience so I'm sure I can learn a lot from him. "A lot of the players are experienced too so I'm sure I can learn a lot from them as well. For me it's just about learning and improving as much as I can. I need some time before I'm ready and hopefully it can happen as quickly as possible." Dixon, who played for Gloria Buzau in Romania before spending time in Turkey with Kartalspor has most recently featured for Grays Athletic, for whom he made a handful of appearances in November 2011.

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The net closes: fourth man arrested
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 18th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Police have confirmed that a fourth man has been arrested in relation to the theft of personal information belonging to employees of West Ham United FC. We reported on Saturday how a third man has been taken into custody in connection with the theft of personal documents, which included files and records belonging to United vice chair Karren Brady. And this morning it was revealed that a 45-year-old man was 'helping police with their enquiries' at a south London station, whilst his property was searched for evidence of wrongdoing. The man's arrest follows those of two individuals last November and that of former PKF (the company employed by Tottenham to investigate West Ham's Olympic Stadium bid) partner Howard Hill last week. As of yet, the individual's indentity has not been revealed. Meanwhile, Tottenham continue to deny any involvement.

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New arrest in spy probe
Police continue to investigate claims
Last Updated: January 18, 2012 12:13pm
SSN

Police have arrested a fourth suspect as they continue to investigate claims Tottenham spied on Olympic officials. Baroness Ford, chair of the organisation initially charged with choosing the Olympic Stadium's tenants, alleged in November that private investigators hired by Spurs had spied on all 14 members of her board. Tottenham deny the accusation, while the latest arrest of a 45-year-old man means four people have been now been questioned by detectives. Three other men, aged 29, 39 and 57, have previously been arrested by the Metropolitan Police's Economic and Specialist Crime Command. West Ham and Newham Council won the right to use the Stratford arena after this summer's Games only for a deal to collapse late last year against the backdrop of ongoing legal action by Spurs and Leyton Orient. The Government announced the stadium would remain in public ownership and asked the Olympic Park Legacy Company to oversee a new tender process.

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Hammers chance for Dixon
Championship club bring in ex-United trainee on short-term deal
Last Updated: January 18, 2012 11:32am
SSN

Former Manchester United trainee Joe Dixon has signed a two-month contract with West Ham United. Dixon, 22, will initially be part of Ian Hendon's development squad at the Championship club. The forward has had spells in Romania and Turkey, and most recently made two appearances for Grays Athletic in the Ryman League in November. "I'm very happy to have signed for West Ham," Dixon told the club's official website.

Learn

"It's a big club with a lot of history. It's good to be here and I'm looking forward to starting. "I've been to the training ground and I met the manager and some of the players. The manager has got a lot of experience so I'm sure I can learn a lot from him. "A lot of the players are experienced too so I'm sure I can learn a lot from them as well. "For me it's just about learning and improving as much as I can. I need some time before I'm ready and hopefully it can happen as quickly as possible."

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Transfer Update Wednesday 18th January
January 18th, 2012 - 10:52 am by Bradley Palmer
West Ham Till I Die

Update 21:33: West Ham will offer around the asking price of £4.5m to seal the deal for Sordell. This could go through very shortly. I will keep you all posted when I hear further news.

Update: As I said earlier, Hudersfield have answered our bid of £5m with an answer of 'no, £8m will talk' my opinion, forget it!! Look elsewhere.

Okay, so we are now well into the second half of this month's January Transfer window and Jack Sullivan, David Sullivans son, confirmed that two bids have gone in for two strikers. One bid of £5m and the other £3.5m. Adzman alerted to this and confirmed that the players in question were Rhodes (£5m) and Sordell (£3.5m). Both players I think would do an excellent job in ensuring a top two status this year. Celik's agent is currently in the process of dealing with his move to a club this window, though as a free agent, it isn't something that has to be rushed. We still remain interested in Reading wide man Kebe who is keen to join us but the club won't sanction a move whatsoever, which I'm also led to believe will be the same with Huddersfield striker Jordan Rhodes. Reports suggesting Huddersfield want near the £8m mark is ridiculous for a player who has only proven his trade in League One. Yes I think he would be a great signing but there are other options out there I think that are just as good who will come cheaper. These players (perhaps being Bristol City striker Nicky Maynard, Watford's Sordell and Burnley striker Jay Rodriguez) each know where the goal is and have proved themselves at this level. Others will argue that Baldock managed the step up for us so why won't Rhodes? It is a very fair point but Baldock is a success story. Would Rhodes be the same?? £5m for a league one player is a lot of money but I still don't see Huddersfield negotiating…The only way we could perhaps tempt Huddersfield would be a £5m offer + Piq and Sears which I personally think is a great offer though difficult to get each to agree terms.

The Guardian has us interested in Yakubu. How many times have we been linked with him? To put it simply…not going to happen IMO!

One confirmed bit of news is that Joe Dixon, a young 22 year old striker has signed on a two month loan deal and will go straight into the development squad with a hope to impress and earn his way into the first team squad.

As always, any gossip or news updates, I will post as soon as possible.

Bradley Palmer (Braderz)

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Southampton join West Ham in Rhodes race
Published 22:29 18/01/12 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

West Ham are set to make a renewed bid for Jordan Rhodes to head off Championship promotion rivals Southampton. Hammers boss boss Sam Allardyce has already had a £4million bid for the 21-year-old Huddersfield striker rejected. Rhodes has hit 27 goals this season for the League One promotion chasers, and now Saints are said to be keen on him.

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Tony Cottee Column: It may not be pretty, but West Ham are on track for promotion
London24
Tony Cottee, London24 West Ham columnist
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
4:15 PM

It was great to see West Ham getting back to winning ways at the weekend, although it wasn't the prettiest game and there weren't many highlights to be honest.
However, as I have said before, it was all about getting the three points. I have sounded like a broken record sometimes this season, but in the Championship, 1-0 can be a really good result. We kept a clean sheet and secured three vital points away from home. The only goal in the game came from the penalty spot and what a crucial taker of spot-kicks Mark Noble is proving to be. He has now scored four out of four this season and all of them have been crucial. The Hammers have produced many decent penalty takers over the years, I played with Ray Stewart and Julian Dicks, but Paolo Di Canio had his moments and now Mark has taken that responsibility. As a player, I never enjoyed taking them, I think I only ever took 10, maybe 12 in my career. There is a huge difference between slotting a penalty in your back garden and doing it in front of 30,000 people at Upton Park, or a stand full of away fans, pulling faces at you. It takes real guts to do it and that is what Mark is made of. It is a huge responsibility and one that I think he is enjoying. And it just so happened that although Southampton also won, Cardiff and Middlesbrough slipped up, which gives us a nice cushion of four points. I don't think that you can read too much into the league table at the moment, and I am sure that there will be many see-saw weeks between now and the end of the season. There is always one team that comes from nowhere to challenge the top six, although I hope that West Ham will stay in the top two between now and the end of the  season. We are just behind our two points a game target, and that would see us finish with 92 points which I am pretty sure would guarantee automatic promotion, if not first place. On the transfer front, it has been a frustrating time for Sam Allardyce, who is still looking to bring in another striker. I can see his problem is that we are creating chances but just not taking them, and I don't want this to cost us later on in the season. The January transfer window is one that seems to really puzzle me. The window is open for the whole month, yet most of the deals seem to be done on the last couple of days. I am sure that the club are doing all they can to bring in top quality players before the end of the month. The latest name linked with the club is Watford's Marvin Sordell and I have seen quite a lot of him  recently. He is a good finisher, quick and strong as well, three vital components for a striker in this league He is also young and eager and I think he would be a good signing. This weekend, Nottingham Forest come to Upton Park and I think it is a real chance for Carlton Cole and Sam Baldock to get back to scoring ways. Any positive result takes us top of the league, but I think we can lay down a marker with a big, big win to send the fans home happy.

Tony Cottee was talking to Nathaniel John

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Reid all about it! Winston can shoulder West Ham pressure
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
10:58 AM

Mark Noble may have been the penalty hero on Saturday at Portsmouth, but for defender Winston Reid it was a case of the penalty-winning hero for the second week running. Last week at Sheffield Wednesday, the New Zealand international defender was tripped for a spot-kick which Sam Baldock could not convert. This time round, he was wrestled to the ground by Tal Ben Haim and Noble did the rest. "It got flicked on by Kevin Nolan and I was just trying to hold him off really. I felt that I got overbalanced and he just pulled me over and it was a penalty for me," said the 23-year-old. "I think the referee was in a good position and everyone could see, so I thought it was a penalty."

Reid was also at the centre of the other pivotal moment in the match as David Norris was sent off for an x-certificate challenge on the defender, but like many of us, but perhaps more surprisingly, he didn't see it either. "I couldn't really see it myself because I was just concentrating playing the ball forward," he explained. "There was definitely contact there and he asked me if I was okay. "I don't really think that he was that unhappy about it, it wasn't as if the rest of the players came over to argue. It was up to the ref to judge on that."

Reid has now made 30 appearances in claret and blue and his understanding with James Tomkins at the heart of defence is getting better and better. It has left the player brimming with confidence. "Obviously when you get some trust from the manager as we have it is nice," said Reid. "The first season I was here was very difficult, but I think personally things are going much better for me this year. "I am very happy at the moment and I am just looking forward to the rest of the season."

No doubt manager Sam Allardyce is also happy with Reid's performances this term. The defender has only just returned from a shoulder injury, but it is as if he had never been away. However, the Kiwi revealed that the injury could have kept him out for much longer than it did. "With the shoulder, it was always going to be more complicated because if they didn't get it right this time and it popped out again, then it would have meant an operation and I could have been out for six or seven months," he confirmed. "So we took our time with it and I came through okay and my shoulder feels all right now. You still have some jittery moments, but I think you just have to get your head around it." Reid has certainly got his head around life in the Championship. The team have let in the least amount of goals this season and the form of Reid, Tomkins and Faye have been a vital part of that statistic.

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West Ham's Noble comes out of the shadows to be the star
London24
Dave Evans, West Ham Correspondent
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
10:51 AM

West Ham midfielder Mark Noble showed on Saturday at Portsmouth that he has the ability to be an accomplished Premier League player. There were many who said that the England under-21 international lived firmly in the shadow of Scott Parker when he was at Upton Park. And there were those who suggested that the arrival of Kevin Nolan would plunge Noble back into the gloom. But while Nolan's form has been inconsistent, the 24-year-old has shown that he can adapt to a new role and play a vital role in the Hammers' promotion push. "To be honest I am really happy with my form," said Noble after his penalty was enough to earn West Ham all three points in a 1-0 win at Fratton Park. "I spoke to the manager the other day and obviously when he first came he was asking me to play in a way that was a little different to the way I have played for the last few years."

That role is largely the one played by Parker when he was at the club. While Papa Bouba Diop provides cover in front of the back four, Noble is the link man of the midfield. Never was that more evident than at Pompey on Saturday, especially in the second half. He was the support for the wide men, always providing an outlet for them, while he also prompted the pace of the West Ham attacks as they looked to pass the ball about against 10-man Portsmouth. "I am used to that new role now and I am really enjoying my football, enjoying playing with the lads and enjoying the role I have got in the team," he said. "It is a nice feeling going home a lot of the weeks winning, because we haven't done that for a few years!"

Noble certainly knows that as well as any other Hammers fan. The Canning Town-born West Ham supporter is the longest serving player, having chalked up just four short of 200 appearances for the club. This season he has notched four goals, all from the penalty spot and it is a role that seems to give him confidence. "Obviously if you put a lot of pace on the penalty and it is at a height that the keeper doesn't like, then he is always going to struggle with it," explained Noble. "I don't want to talk too much about it because I don't want to jinx myself, but when we get one, both me and the boys know who is taking it and may they keep coming."

Noble's penalty proved the difference between the two teams on Saturday, but the midfielder felt that the gap between the two sides was much wider. "I thought we started really well and got into them and played like a proper team," said Noble. "They had five or six corners towards the end of the first half and got back into the game a bit, but you are always going to get that away from home because teams press you more and they are going to give that extra 10 per cent to try and beat us.
"We rode that storm, came out in the second half and they obviously had a man sent off and from then on it was a pretty easy."

Noble was rested last week and in his absence West Ham not only went out of the FA Cup, they also saw Sam Baldock miss a penalty. But it seems that the weekend off helped recharge the batteries of the midfielder. "The manager pulled me in and said you are going to have the weekend off. I had covered a lot of ground and had played two games in three days, so he said I could spend it with my family and be ready for the Portsmouth game," he said. "We got the win so I am happy now as you can see, it worked a treat."

It certainly did. Noble seemed to cover every blade of the Fratton Park grass and now he is looking for the team to go on a good run. "You have to get back-to-back wins or go on a run in this league if you want to break away," he said. "Obviously we have seen Middlesbrough losing and Cardiff only drawing so we have a little cushion again, but as we have seen, we had a little cushion before and lost it, but we are determined this time to stay strong and keep pushing. "As long as we all stick together – the fans, the players the staff have all been fantastic and as long as that continues, I have no doubt where we are going to end up."

And with Noble in this sort of form, you can't really argue with that scenario.

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Blackburn striker linked with West Ham United switch
10:05am Wednesday 18th January 2012 in
Guardian Series

West Ham United are reportedly considering a move for Blackburn striker Yakubu. The Nigeria forward has netted 13 goals for Rovers this season including four against Swansea last month. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is searching for a striker to boost their promotion hopes and a move for the 29-year-old could be on the cards.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 18th January 2012

2012-01-18T09:12:00.001Z

On This Day - 17 January
WHUFC.com
A rare but memorable goal from Jon Harley is remembered today as we look
through Hammers history
17.01.2012

Classic Match
Sheffield United 3-3 West Ham United
First Division
17 January 2004
West Ham United maintained their promotion challenge with a fine away point
although felt they should have taken all three in what was a thrilling
contest.
After going a goal down to Paul Peschisolido's fifth-minute opener, the
Hammers battled back to take a commanding lead at the interval in front of
22,287 fans packed into a chilly Bramall Lane. Michael Carrick restored
parity in the 19th minute before Jon Harley smashed in a 20-yarder against
his old club to spark wild celebrations among team-mates and fans alike. It
was to be the left-back's only goal in the claret and blue - or rather dark
blue as was worn on the day - in 15 appearances.
It seemed as if the Hammers would go on and take all three points when
Marlon Harewdood converted from close range before the half-time whistle.
Paul Shaw, on as a second-half substitute, reduced the arrears for the
Blades in the 73rd minute before Stephen Bywater made a fine penalty save
from Michael Tonge three minutes later to keep the visitors in front.
Matthew Etherington then had a great chance to make the game safe only to
spurn the opportunity. The Hammers were punished deep into added time when
Phil Jagielka equalised to make it 3-3 but the main job of not losing to a
promotion rival had been achieved. It proved to be a very precious point as,
come the end of the season, West Ham United earned a Play-Offs place after
finishing fourth in the table - just three points ahead of Sheffield United
who missed out in eighth place. The Hammers saw off Ipswich Town in the
semi-finals before losing out 1-0 to Crystal Palace in the final at
Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. The West Ham fans would only have to wait 12
months more though for the chance to make amends....

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Papa positive
WHUFC.com
The Hammers are being urged on this year by midfield powerhouse Papa Bouba
Diop
17.01.2012

Papa Bouba Diop is pushing to do all he can to help West Ham United make it
three npower Championship wins from three in 2012. The stylish Hammers
enforcer was in commanding form last Saturday at Portsmouth, helping the
Hammers to a second successive 1-0 win after they started January in similar
fashion at home to Coventry City. Not surprisingly given his vast
experience, Diop was more concerned with the team securing a hat-trick of
New Year triumphs with this weekend's visit of Nottingham Forest than
dwelling on the past. "It was a great win and we simply want to keep going
like that," he told whufc.com. "Since the New Year we have two wins in two
games, it is good way to start the year. "We know how important this year is
to the fans and the club. We have Nottingham Forest next and we must win
this game as well. We are at home and we have to keep winning games."

The Senegalese midfielder was an irresistible force at Fratton Park, driving
the team on from a holding role that even saw him drop into the defence for
the frenetic closing stages. Even so, there was still time for two
lung-bursting surges forward to ease the pressure as Pompey pushed for an
equaliser to Mark Noble's penalty.
"I was very tired after those runs but I had to do it for the team," he
added with a smile that belied the fact his 34th birthday is coming up on 28
January. "Everything we do is for the team and we cannot forget that."

Coming off the pitch to hear that leaders Southampton had won, the Hammers
were boosted to find out their two nearest rivals below had both dropped
points. Nevertheless, Diop knows that Cardiff City and Middlesbrough will
come back strong again in future. "It is tough because we are being pushed
hard by the teams behind us and also Southampton won again. We cannot make a
mistake because if we do the other teams will take advantage. "The win
against Portsmouth means we could keep the pressure off and we needed it to
get the win. If we want to get to the Premier League we have to give
everything. All that we do is to come back to the Premier League."

Nothing else matters, even if it was sweet for Diop to play such a leading
role at his former employers last Saturday. "It was nice to come back to my
old club and even nicer to come back and get a win. "I remember my time here
but I am a West Ham player and I want to help my team-mates to get on. That
is all that matters to me."

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Leo happy with England call-up
WHUFC.com
Leo Chambers has been named in the England U17 squad for the Algarve
Tournament
17.01.2012

Leo Chambers is targeting more success after being named in the England
Under-17 squad for the Algarve Tournament in Portugal. The West Ham United
Academy defender has been a regular for his country over the last few
seasons, winning the Victory Shield as an U16 before helping England to win
the FA International Tournament against strong opposition in August 2011.
The prestigious Algarve Tournament sees England drawn against host nation
Portugal, Netherlands and France, with the competition taking place in early
February. "I'm looking forward to it," Chambers told whufc.com "I'm glad
I've been called up and I'm hoping that both myself and the team can do
well. "I played in the summer when we played against Portugal, Czech
Republic and Italy and we won that tournament did really well.
"We have got a very strong squad and lots of depth so hopefully we can do
well in the Algarve Tournament as well."

Chambers has made his mark at club level too this season, appearing 17 times
in all competitions for the U18s and on four occasions for Ian Hendon's
development squad. As the 16-year-old continues his development, he has also
appeared at right-back in training, but believes his future lies at the
heart of the defence. Despite his achievements, Chambers also freely admits
he needs to find a greater level of consistency in his game, having not
enjoyed the best of night's in the 4-1 FA Youth Cup fourth-round win over
Brighton and Hove Albion - a sure sign of his maturity at such a tender age.
"I'm getting on. All the boys have done well. The league is quite tight and
I don't think there are many points between the top five or six clubs.
Hopefully we can do well in the league and the Youth Cup. "I did have a poor
game aganist Brighton and I need to bounce back from that. I think I needed
that, to be honest, because I need to know where I am standing as a player.
The pressure got to me and I need to bounce back. "Nick has spoken to me
about playing right-back and has said I can play there. He also knows I can
play centre-back and I'm just hoping to develop as a player. I see myself as
a centre-half though."

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Loanees in action
WHUFC.com
Three of West Ham United's loanees were in action in league and cup on
Tuesday evening
17.01.2012

Three of West Ham United's loanees were in action in league and cup on
Tuesday evening. Ahmed Abdulla (pictured) and Eoin Wearen turned out for
Dagenham and Redbridge in their 5-0 FA Cup with Budweiser third-round replay
defeat by Millwall at The Den. Elsewhere, Peter Kurucz kept his first clean
sheet for Rochdale in their goalless npower League One draw at Tranmere
Rovers. Having kept the Lions to a 0-0 draw in the initial tie at Victoria
Road, the Daggers' hopes were high of upsetting their Championship rivals -
who came into the match on the back of a 6-0 home league defeat by
Birmingham City on Saturday. However, Millwall were too good on home turf,
with Darius Henderson scoring a hat-trick and on-loan Tottenham Hotspur
forward Harry Kane netting two goals.

A third Hammer on loan at Dagenham, Cristian Montano, was forced to miss the
match as he was ineligible. At Prenton Park, Kurucz was in unbeatable form
for the Dale as they boosted their survival hopes by collecting a point
against mid-table Tranmere. The former Hungary Under-21 stopper made fine
saves to deny John Welsh, Robbie Weir and Lucas Akins before making an
outstanding stop to deny Rovers substitute Cole Stockton in added-time.

Elsewhere, former Hammer Danny Gabbidon scored his first goal since 2005 as
Queens Park Rangers edged out MK Dons at Loftus Road. Gabbidon's goal was
scored past goalkeeper David Martin, the son of West Ham great Alvin Martin.

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West Ham's Cristian Montano signs Dagenham & Redbridge extension
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 12:20 GMT, Tuesday, 17 January 2012

West Ham striker Cristian Montano has had his loan spell at Dagenham &
Redbridge extended for a third and final time. The 20-year-old, who has made
seven appearances and scored three times since arriving in November, will
remain with the club for a further month. Boss John Still told the club
website: "It gives us a player who has done very well for a little bit
longer." The West Ham academy product has not featured for the Hammers'
first-team.

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Referendum on OS move
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 17th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

Campaign group WHU's View have received assurances from the club over a
ballot on the Olympic Stadium move. The group - which has received the
backing of nearly 2,000 people so far in their campaign to force West Ham
United's board to hold a referendum of supporters over the stadium switch -
recently gained confirmation from vice-chair Karren Brady that should the
club opt to move to Stratford, a poll will be held. "We have been contacted
by Karren Brady confirming that the Club will hold a ballot of some sort if
they decide to bid for the Olympic Stadium," read the group's latest
missive. "The Club are also to arrange a meeting with members of the
committee to discuss issues such as who will be balloted, when and how. We
hope to have a constructive debate with the Club in the near future and then
intend to report back. "Sufficient numbers have registered with WHU's View
to prompt the club to confirm a ballot will be held. We are now anxious to
avoid delay and we will continue to press for this and to hold the Club to
their promises."

The campaign started last Autumn after the group accused David Gold and
David Sullivan of reneging on their ten point pledge, made in May 2010 after
Gianfranco Zola had narrowly managed to avoid relegation. The final point on
the list insisted that the board would 'listen to the supporters' - a
promise that the board were accused of failing to adhere to when pressing on
with plans to move to Stratford despite opposition from a sizeable
proportion of the club's fanbase.

* You may register your support for WHU's View by visiting their website at
www.whusvoice.com.

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The 2011 accounts reviewed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 17th January 2012
By: Brian Evans

Before getting stuck into the Board, I would just make the point that the
club paid a group of players in excess of £48million last season , and they
took us down. That's £8m more than Gianfranco Zola's squad earned. Whatever
these set of books reveal, let's not hide from that irrefutable fact.
Overall the financial result is horrendous. A loss of £18.6million, whilst
an improvement on the previous year, ignores the fact the club had an
additional income of £9million last season compared with the year before. So
for all the talk of "ratios" the hard facts are our income increased but so
did our costs , and much of the increased income disappeared straight out of
the door to players and agents.

Thankfully the cost of paying off Avram Grant at £885,000 was rather less
than the cost of paying off the previous management team. Both decisions
though have been taken by the current Board and have involved payouts in
excess of £4.2million.

In fairness much of the loss - £8.1million of it - was as a result of
offloading players to get them off the books. Benni McCarthy (probably) and
Alessandro Diamanti will probably be the principle hits and both, in their
way, were decisions made by the current Board.

However, it gets worse. The recent policy of signing players on short term
loans to avoid future amortisation costs has yet to bear fruit. The asset
value of the playing staff in the course of last year reduced from
£26.6million to £17.4million, but the costs of amortising player contracts
during the year remained at £14.5million.

Tha total amount owed to other people at £91.2million is substantial when
weighed against a playing staff asset base of £17.4million. That of course
is their book value but we should remember players such as James Tomkins,
who will be in the books at zero, are worth significantly more in the
market.

Call it a stab in the dark, but I doubt the Board have missed that fact.

In their first year of ownership, Mr Sullivan and Mr Gold invested
£24million of equity into the club but last year just £2million in equity -
and a further £3million in interest bearing loans. So in effect they have
invested just £26million into the club since buying it (up to the date of
these accounts, May 2011).

Given the write off costs on Diamanti, McCarthy and the firing of Grant and
Zola, very nearly half of that equity value has already been wiped out as a
direct consequence of their decisions. The losses we are likely to accrue
this season will surely see the rest of it disappear.

Little wonder Mr Gold was rueful when expressing his opinion that he felt
they had spent enough to stay up.

The club's highest paid Director last year picked up a cool
quarter-of-a-million; no wonder she was wearing such a nice suit on SSN this
morning. In fairness she at least delivered on her end of the bargain, which
is more than the people who picked up the £48million- the players - did.

The timing of the release of these accounts whilst the transfer window
remains open is in my opinion significant, but looking ahead I would expect
next year's losses to be lower as a result of actions the Board have already
taken.

This set of accounts probably represents a low point, strange as it may
seem. The big improvements we will see in next year's set of accounts will
be a £13million improvement in the wage bill, probably a £10million
improvement in the reduction of amortisation costs and a significantly lower
write off costs on the disposal of players. Maybe even a profit if we sell
James Tomkins.

Those three areas combined will more than offset the loss of TV money this
year.

However none of that will put a dent in the club's debt - only significant
additional funds being injected are likely to solve that anytime soon.

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Wind of change - or playing hardball?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th January 2012
By: Staff

Karren Brady has claimed that West Ham United's board are considering
redeveloping the Boleyn Ground - despite having categorically ruled the
option out previously. Brady, speaking in the wake of recent comments from
Government sources that suggested football might not be the only option for
the post-2012 games stadium told SSN that the club were keeping their
options open - comments in stark contrast to those of her boss David Gold,
who recently told supporters that redeveloping the Green Street ground was
non viable. Speaking about the club's proposals for Stratford - and the
forthcoming tender application deadline - Brady said: "The new tender has
come out and we're going through that at the moment. "If we decide to
tender again our application will go in by the 23rd of March and the
deadline for a decision is the 21st of May, so it will come around pretty
quickly. "We're in the data room at the minute looking at the processes,
looking at what's on offer, looking at being a tenant and an owner and
working out whether that fits in with West Ham's plan. "I think we'd look to
improve and develop Upton Park if we stayed. If we moved it would be to the
Olympic Stadium due to its close proximity. It's in our borough. It's in our
heartland. It needs a legacy."

Brady's comments represent a complete sea-change in the board's view, for it
was just 15 months ago that the club placed an advertisement requesting
contact from developer's interested in redeveloping the site. The Boleyn
Ground's last remaining pre-1990s stand, the East Stand, was initially due
to be redeveloped more than a decade ago after the club received the
go-ahead for a 43,000 capacity stadium from the local council. However the
plug was pulled when the council requested revisions to the club's plans in
2002.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cole rules out Hammers exit
Striker has no intention of leaving West Ham
Last Updated: January 18, 2012 8:21am
SSN

West Ham striker Carlton Cole has poured cold water on speculation linking
him with a move away from the club by insisting he is going nowhere this
month. The 28-year-old has been tipped to leave Upton Park during the
current transfer window, with Fulham and Turkish giants Galatasaray thought
to be potential destinations.
But Cole says he has no intention of leaving the Hammers and is hoping to
stay on next term. "I told everybody at the start of the season, I'm there
for the whole season," he told Sky Sports News. "Next season I want to be
here at West Ham again. I'm not looking for a move. "Obviously when you're
connected to other teams it's a bit unsettling and unnerving sometimes but I
know the chairman has got 100 per cent faith in me and he wants me to do
well, the manager as well. "I've got no reason to move at the moment."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
2 Bids In For Strikers
http://westhamclaretinmyblood.blogspot.com

There are very strong rumours on Twitter, allegedly attributed to David
Sullivan's son, Jack, that West Ham have two bids in right now for two
strikers. Usually, I don't pay much attention to Clunge or any of the self
annointed Tweeters, but there is one fellow with a good track record - an
agent, and he is among many who is independently confirming this news. One,
the lesser of the two bids - around 3.5 million, is supposedly for Watford's
21 year old striker, Marvin Sordell. Sordell has scored ten goals (8 in the
league) this season for Watford, which, considering their position and the
support he gets, isn't bad. It's certainly more than anyone at West Ham has
scored so far this season.

There is considerable conjecture regarding the second bid of around 4 to 5
million pounds. One of the favourites seems to be 23 year old Celtic
striker Gary Hooper. But, in my opinion, this is highly unlikely as the
English striker is said to want to stay at Celtic, and the management are
very outspoken in their desire to keep him at Celtic Park. The other target
is touted as Jordan Rhodes; however, it is well known that Huddersfield
won't sell him for a penny less than 8 million, and they would prefer not to
sell him at all. I would be extremely surprised if another bid was put in
for Rhodes: if he's going anywhere, then, likely it will be to sit on a
Premier League bench. Which is a shame...

That leaves a few other possibilities, one of which I believe is highly
likely to be Doncaster Rovers' 25 year old striker Billy Sharp. If you
remember Billy Sharp was destined for Leicester City a week or so ago, after
they had an offer accepted for 3 million by Doncaster. However, Doncaster
had second thoughts and offered Billy an improved contract in order to keep
him at the club. He has also scored ten goals this season, and if Sordell's
ten for Watford seem impressive, then, by the same token, Sharpe's ten for
23rd placed Doncaster is even more impressive. If Sharp can score goals
with the quality of players around him at Doncaster (no disrespect
intended), then he should be more successful at West Ham with players like
Taylor, Lansbury, Faubert, Collison, Noble, Nolan, and McCartney whipping
balls in, not mention Cole holding them up for him. I'm not sure why we
haven't heard more about Bristol City's 8 goal striker Nicky Maynard up
until this point. Perhaps it could be him?

Given our recent toothless displays in front of goal, Sam's recent comments
echoing fan concern about our profligacy in front of goal, let's hope this
speculation leads to substance.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
RUMOUR MILL: BIG SAM TO BE REUNITED WITH RED DEVILS STRIKER
Posted on Monday, 16th January 2012 by Henry Lowe
ForeverWestHam.com

I have to admit that when it was reported that Sir Alex would be letting
Mame Biram Diouf go out on loan my head was turned. Now I am going to be
completely honest I don't know a great deal about the 24 year old however
from what I have seen he looks like a decent player and in my opinion at the
age of 24 he is the type of player that we should be looking to bring in and
as we all know Big Sam managed to bring the Red Devils striker in on loan to
Blackburn when he was in charge.
The only thing about this move I do not like is the fact it is a loan
approach. Yes, he might get us the goals this season, but we should be
looking for a permanent striker given our problems in that area of the
pitch. As I always do I'll bore you with some stats; Diouf has only made 5
appearances for Manchester United scoring a single goal. His most successful
spell came at Norwegian club Molde. From 2007-2009 he scored 29 goals in 62
appearances which is respectable. His loan spell under our very own
Allardyce saw him score only 3 goals in 26 appearances. Although I regret to
inform you that this deal like many of our others looks unlikely as Diouf
looks to be on his way to Wigan, but we are an optimistic bunch, we can
hope!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham concerned about new rental terms for Olympic Stadium
By Paul Kelso11:00PM GMT 17 Jan 2012 1
Telegraph.co.uk

As the Olympic Park Legacy Company opens discussions with potential tenants
for the main stadium, West Ham are yet to be convinced that the new terms on
offer make sense for the club. West Ham were selected as preferred bidder
for the lease in the original bidding process, but the terms of the new
rental agreement are less attractive for the club. The OPLC has begun
"preliminary clarification meetings" with parties, and concert promoters
Live Nation and O2 Arena owners AEG are also understood to be interested in
taking on a management contract for the stadium. Persuading West Ham remains
the key to making the stadium work, however, and without certainty about the
commercial benefits of the stadium, a bid is not certain. The OPLC is
understood to be seeking around £10 million a year for naming rights for the
stadium and the aquatic centre, though it is unclear how revenue will be
shared with tenants. There are also reservations about the provision of
temporary seating on the track to make the ground more attractive for
football, something West Ham co-chairman David Gold has said is crucial to
the stadium working. The club are also reluctant to share with a rugby club
because of the damage to the pitch.

It is understood that in the specifications laid out for bidders, the OPLC
is proposing that 3,500 to 4,000 of the 60,000 seats will be reserved for
corporate hospitality. For athletics and other lower-capacity events the
OPLC is proposing to screen off around 14,000 seats in the upper tier behind
the goals to make the gaps less obvious on television. Interested parties
have until Jan 30 to decide whether to lodge full bids.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DO WE REALLY NEED THIS ENGLAND U21 STRIKER?
Posted on Tuesday, 17th January 2012 by Bill West
ForeverWestHam.com

We all know that West Ham are in need of a striker, having struggling to
score in the last few games. In the last week the Hammers have been linked
with Watford forward Marvin Sordell. This season, Sordell has scored 8
league goals in 23 games, which isn't a bad record whilst playing for a
bottom half team in Watford. He scored 12 in the league last season and with
8 already this season, Sordell has shown he is a decent player, scoring
goals for a team like Watford who don't create many chances, I am sure he
would relish the amount of chances West Ham create, especially in recent
home games. Sordell is only 20 years of age; the way he has played so far in
his short career could end up with him having a bright future in the game. I
haven't seen much of Sordell but I watched him in the Sky game against
Reading on Saturday. He seems to have lots of energy, pace and always looks
to get a shot on goal. I think Sordell would be a good addition to the West
Ham team. He has got great potential and could end up being a Premier League
finisher. If he is to sign for us, we shouldn't put all our expectations on
him to fire us to promotion though. He is still learning the game at 20
years of age. Some of our other strikers need to step up to the plate.
Carlton Cole and Sam Baldock need to get back to the form they showed
earlier this season, before injuries ruined the middle of their season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Avram Grant aiming to be reunited with West Ham striker
By talkSPORT
Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Avram Grant is preparing to make West Ham striker Frederic Piquionne one of
his first signings since he took charge of Partizan Belgrade. Piquionne has
failed to make any impact under Sam Allardyce this season and was expected
to join Wolves on a free transfer. But the move broke down and he is now
expected to look for a switch elsewhere before the end of January. The
French striker has enjoyed some of his best football playing under Grant at
both Portsmouth and West Ham and could be tempted by a move to the Serbian
champions. Grant is back in football following his sacking as West Ham boss
after the club suffered relegation from the Premier League last season. But
the Israeli coach is determined to maintain Partizan's Belgrade lead at the
top of the table and hopes Piquionne can score the goals to help them
qualify for the Champions League next season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reading want to keep West Ham United target Kebe
12:36pm Tuesday 17th January 2012 in News
Guardian Series

Reading have confirmed they do not want to sell West Ham United target Jimmy
Kebe. The Hammers have reportedly had an offer turned down for the attacker
during the transfer window. Reading director of football Nick Hammond told
the club website: "There's no pressure from upstairs for us to do a deal on
Jimmy. He's been offered a new contract, we hope he's going to stay.
"There's been some offers on the table but we've got no desire to sell."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United defender selected in England squad
10:55am Tuesday 17th January 2012 in News
Guardian Series

West Ham youngster Leo Chambers has been named in the England Under-17 squad
for the Algarve Tournament next month. The central defender is one of 18
players selected by head coach John Peacock for the five-day event that will
see the Young Lions take on hosts Portugal, France and the Netherlands from
February 2 to 6. The tournament is seen as ideal preparation for the UEFA
European Under-17 Championship Elite Qualifying Round at the end of March.
This will be held in Georgia and also contain Spain and Ukraine. England
have a good recent record in the Algarve Tournament, finishing second last
year before going on to reach the semi-finals of the Euros and the last
eight of the World Cup. The previous year, Peacock led his charges to
victory in Portugal ahead of their European Championship success.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam has Saints in his sights
Last Updated: 17/01/12 at 10:49 Post Comment
TeamTalk

West Ham edged four points clear of third-placed Cardiff after Saturday's
win at Portsmouth and victory over Nottingham Forest next weekend will take
them, at least temporarily, above Saints who do not play until Monday when
they host Leicester. "Even though Southampton won, Middlesbrough slipped up
and Cardiff drew so it gives us a little more distance to them which I think
is important," said Allardyce. "Now we're over the worst of our injuries
we've got two victories on the trot and won eight games away from home.
"We've got one of the best away records in the league and our home form
recently has been win-win with Barnsley and Coventry. "We want to continue
that next week against Forest now and see whether we can keep up with
Southampton."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diop happy to drive Hammers on
Tuesday 17th January 2012 10:13
TeamTalk

West Ham midfielder Papa Bouba Diop is desperate for the Hammers to continue
their fine form and secure promotion back to the Premier League. The Hammers
suffered a shock FA Cup third-round defeat by Sheffield Wednesday but two
successive league wins have kept them breathing down the neck on
table-topping Southampton. Diop, 33, was instrumental in the 1-0 home win
over Coventry on 2 January and the hard-fought 1-0 win at his former club
Portsmouth last Saturday.
And with strugglers Nottingham Forest set to visit Upton Park at the
weekend, Diop told the club's website: "It was a great win and we simply
want to keep going like that. "Since the New Year we have two wins in two
games - it is a good way to start the year. We know how important this year
is to the fans and the club. "We have Nottingham Forest next and we must win
this game as well. We have to keep winning games. If we want to get to the
Premier League we have to give everything. All that we do is to come back to
the Premier League."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 17th January 2012

2012-01-17T07:13:00.001Z

Accounts released
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's accounts for the year ending 31 May 2011 have been
released
16.01.2012

West Ham United are pleased to release the club's accounts for the year
ending 31 May 2011. In his chairman's statement, Joint-Chairman David
Sullivan said: "Given the very challenging position of being relegated from
the Premier League in May 2011, I am pleased to report an operating profit
of £6.8m after many years of the club posting operating losses.

"We remain strongly focused on our turnaround plan for the club and despite
the financial environment, as these accounts disclose, my co-chairman, David
Gold, and I invested £3m by way of shareholder loans in the year ended 31
May 2011 on top of our investment in buying shares in the club.

"David and I have undertaken to continue to provide all the financial
support necessary to give the club the best possible chance of achieving
promotion. We have invested £29m by way of a combination of equity and loans
in the last 18 months and we are likely to have to invest in the region of a
further £30m in the current season, demonstrating our real and tangible
commitment to the club."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Big Sam was happy after West Ham United strengthened their position in the
npower Championship
16.01.2012

Sam Allardyce was pleased with a good weekend's work for West Ham United,
who not only secured their second consecutive 1-0 win in the npower
Championship, but more importantly solidified their position in the top two
of the table. The Hammers' win, which came courtesy of Mark Noble's penalty
in the 24th minute, saw them keep the pressure on league leaders
Southampton, who also won 3-0 at Nottingham Forest. More importantly though,
were the results of the teams just below West Ham as both Cardiff City and
Middlesbrough failed to pick up maximum points returns, by drawing at
Doncaster Rovers and losing at home to Burnley respectively. Those results
mean a healthy four-point lead between the Hammers and third-placed Cardiff.
"Even though Southampton have won, Middlesbrough have slipped up and Cardiff
have drawn so it gives us a little more distance to them which I think is
important," the West Ham United manager said. "We are neck and neck and for
the first time we have stayed with Southampton. We have got into this
position a couple of times this year and slipped up and let Southampton get
a victory and then we slipped a few points behind them. Now we have stayed
neck and neck - let's hope we can keep on this winning streak as long as
possible."

With back-to-back wins under their belt with two clean sheets, Big Sam is
looking forward to trying to make it three victories on the spin and getting
the Hammers back on track for their target of two points per game when
Nottingham Forest visit the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. "Now we're over the
worst of our injuries we've got two victories on the trot and won eight
games away from home. We've got one of the best away records in the league
and our home form recently has been win-win with Barnsley and Coventry. We
want to continue that next week against Forest now and see whether we can
keep up with Southampton. "

It was not just the league table that was looking healthier after the
weekend however, as the Hammers' treatment table shows signs of clearing up
following a difficult Christmas period that saw the squad stretched to its
very limits. The return of Gary O' Neil, Abdoulaye Faye, Winston Reid, Henri
Lansbury and Sam Baldock to the squad in recent weeks has left just Matt
Taylor and Guy Demel as the only first-team players missing through injury,
although both are expected back in training soon. As such, the manager has
allowed Cristian Montano to extend his loan at Dagenham & Redbridge until 14
February. "I hope the worst part of the season is over. At Derby County we
had ten first-team players unavailable for selection - four through
suspension and six through injury - and that was the peak of our level of
players missing. But throughout the whole of December we had one or two
suspensions or four or five players injured for every single game and it was
our worst run of the season. "Looking forward, I'm feeling confident because
Matt Taylor and Guy Demel are close to getting back as well, and we're still
looking for at least one player in the January transfer window. We've got
George John from America as well, and Gary O'Neil is back having been out
all season, and has played a couple of games."

* Sam Allardyce will be appearing as a guest on the BBC's Late Kick-off
show, which will be screened at 11.05pm on BBC One for viewers in the London
and south-east region.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carr hails six-star show
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Tony Carr was delighted with the 6-1 FA Premier Academy
League over Norwich City
15.01.2012

West Ham United Under-18s continued their perfect start to 2012 with a 6-1
FA Premier Academy League victory at Norwich City - delighting Academy
Director Tony Carr. Having begun the year with a 3-2 league win at Chelsea
and a 4-1 FA Youth Cup fourth-round success against Brighton and Hove
Albion, West Ham hit the heights again to ground the Canaries at Little
Heath. Kieran Sadlier and Paul McCallum (pictured) each scored twice, while
Blair Turgott and Frazer Shaw were also on target as the Hammers roared back
after falling a goal behind early on. Turgott missed a penalty before
Sadlier equalised and then crossed for McCallum - who has recently returned
to action following a spell out with a foot injury - to put West Ham in
front before half-time. The second half was something of a procession, with
McCallum netting from the penalty spot before Sadlier, Turgott and Shaw
added gloss to the scoreline. "We made seven changes from the team that beat
Brighton on Wednesday, so this performance and result were a great advert
for the strength in our squad," said Carr. "Norwich scored from a free-kick
out wide that was allowed to bounce in at the far post, and when Blair
missed his penalty we could have thought 'This isn't going to be our day'
but we didn't let our heads drop. "Norwich also shuffled their pack after
going to extra time in their FA Youth Cup game against Chelsea, but that
should take nothing away from our boys. "This was a great performance,
especially in the second half."

West Ham are awaiting a finalised date for their FA Youth Cup fifth-round
tie at Chelsea, which must be played before Saturday 11 February. Before
then, the Hammers will travel to Crystal Palace for their next league
fixture on Saturday 21 January.

West Ham United U18s: Wootton, Siafa, Shaw, Hurley (Miles 80), K.Lee, Young
(Chambers 60), Sadlier, Ruddock, McCallum (Boakye-Yiadom 70), Turgott, Vose

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble on the spot
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble is looking upwards after netting his fourth penalty of the season
at Portsmouth
15.01.2012

Mark Noble is targeting top spot in the npower Championship after netting
his fourth penalty of the season to secure a 1-0 win at Portsmouth on
Saturday. The long-serving midfielder kept his cool to beat Stephen
Henderson from 12 yards after Winston Reid had been hauled to the ground by
ex-Hammer Tal Ben Haim - adding to his successful spot-kicks against Pompey
in the reverse fixture, Peterborough United and Derby County. Noble's goal
kept West Ham behind leaders Southampton on goal difference and the
24-year-old is taking aim at the summit ahead of this weekend's visit of
struggling Nottingham Forest. "It was nice to go home with three points. Our
away record this year has been fantastic, although we did lose at Derby and
draw at Birmingham. Now we're back on track and to winning ways and that's
the most important thing," he told West Ham TV. "You have to get
back-to-back wins or go on a run to break away in this league and we saw
Middlesbrough lost and Cardiff drew so we've got a little cushion again. We
had a little cushion before but gave it up, so we're determined to stay
strong this time and keep on pushing."

Noble was naturally happy to maintain his 100 per cent record from the
penalty spot, although there must have been some nerves when he saw
goalkeeper Henderson get fingertips on the ball on its way into the net.
"Obviously, if you put a lot of pace on the ball and it's at a height that
the keeper struggles with, then he's going to struggle to save it. "I don't
want to talk too much about it because I don't want to jinx myself, but when
we get one [a penalty] the boys know and I know who is taking it and may
they keep coming."

While one goal was enough at Fratton Park, Noble did concede that the
Hammers would need to be more clinical in future if they are to maintain
their title challenge.
"We started really well and we got into them and played like a proper team.
They had five or six corners and got back into the game a little bit, which
they were always going to do at home, because teams are always going to
press and to try and beat us. "We rode that storm, came out in the second
half and they had a man [David Norris] sent-off and it was pretty easy from
there."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
On this day: 16 January
WHUFC.com
Bobby Zamora and a vital home win over Portsmouth in 1993 are the focus
today
16.01.2012

Anniversary
Bobby Zamora
Date of birth: 16 January 1981
Clubs: Bristol Rovers, Brighton and Hove Albion, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham
United, Fulham
Barking-born Zamora will probably be best remembered for scoring the goal
that won West Ham United promotion back to the Premier League in May 2005.
The striker scored the only goal of the game to defeat Preston North End in
the Championship play-off final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium. Zamora
joined the West Ham United Academy as a schoolboy but was released before
turning professional. He was picked up by Bristol Rovers as a trainee but
only made six substitute appearances. Loan moves to Bath City and Brighton
and Hove Albion followed with the latter deciding to make his move
permanent. Zamora proved himself a prolific goalscorer on the south coast,
scoring 76 goals in 125 games and helping Ablion to two consecutive titles.
That form caught the eye of Tottenham Hotspur who bought the forward for
£1.5m in July 2003. However, 18 appearances bought just one goal. Six months
later Zamora moved to east London to rejoin his boyhood club and immediately
made his mark by scoring on his debut against Bradford City. The following
season he struck 13 times, including two in the semi-final win over Ipswich
Town and the one in the final against Preston. The striker, who wore No25 in
his time at the Boleyn Ground, made his mark the following season in the
Premier League, scoring ten goals. Eleven goals followed in the 2006/07
season as United miraculously avoided relegation. However, fitness was to
hinder the forward in the 2007/08 campaign and he made just 14 appearances
with a solitary goal in return before moving to Fulham in July 2008.

Classic match
West Ham United 2-0 Portsmouth
First Division
16 January 1993

A comfortable home win on the day, but few could have predicted how
important the result would be at the end of the season. Trevor Morley put
the Hammers in front with a diving header in the 26th minute before Colin
Foster doubled the lead with another headed effort ten minutes after
half-time in front of 18,127 at the Boleyn Ground.
Portsmouth boss Jim Smith was full of praise for the home side, saying:
"West Ham are the best team we've played this season." The result was to
prove vital in West Ham United's successful promotion campaign. Following
the game, Portsmouth went on a great run that would see them finish the
season third, one place below the promoted Hammers on goal difference.
Crucially, though, if the game had finished 1-0, Portsmouth would have been
promoted at United's expense.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers announce further losses
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th January 2012
By: Staff Writer

WH Holding Limited have announced an operating profit of £6.8million in the
club's latest set of accounts - but overall losses of £18.6million. In the
latest set of accounts, released today, WH Holding Limited - the parent
company of West Ham United FC - confirmed the trading profit in the latest
set of figures which cover the period from June 201 to May 2011. However the
club's overall losses (prior to taxation) equate to £18.57million - figures
only sightly better than the previous year which saw the club record a loss
of some £21million. The club's level of debt to the banks is recorded as
having dropped from £44.9million to £38million during that period, whilst
the club's overall debt was reduced from £112.7million to £91.2million.

In order to further reduce the level of debt, the club have made
'significant overhead savings' of £3.2million per annum since May 2009 - a
year prior to the club's purchase by David Sullivan and partner David Gold -
whilst overheads have been reduced by 15%. David Sullivan, writing in his
Chairman's statement also confirmed that the club had spent £10.7million
(gross) on transfer fees since the club were relegated in May 2011 -
although with player sales, that figure drops to just £2.5million (net).

WH Holding Ltd 2011 Accounts: highlights

The good news...

* Group turnover up from £71.7m to £80.5m
* Match receipts up from £16.9m to £18.8m
* TV and sponsorship money up from £38m to £46.3m
* Board of Directors' renumeration (total) down from £637,000 to £557,000
* No dividends will be paid to the directors
* Operating profit up from £1.4m to £8.4m
* Wage/turnover ratio reduced from 70.2% to 68%

...And the bad

* Overall loss of £18.6m - down from £20.6m in 2010
* Staff costs (wage bill) up from £53.6m to £55.7m
* Player's wage bill up by £8million
* Value of tangible assets (Boleyn Ground, training grounds) down from
£75.6m to £73m
* Average home gate down from 33,100 to 32,800 (down from peak in 2006/07 of
34,600)
* Bank debts total £38million (down from £44.9m)
* Overall debt to creditors £91.2 (down from £112.7m)
* Group's profit/loss account stands at -£142,450,000

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So we can stay at the Boleyn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 16th January 2012
By: Paul Walker

So now we know. If our owners do not go for the Olympic Stadium option, we
won't leave the Boleyn and will aim to redevelop our 108-year-old home.

Vice chairman Karen Brady's appearance on Sky threw up some very interesting
pointers to how our future will develop. And I'm not sure I've ever heard of
the one that says we stay at a redeveloped Boleyn.

I've been a supporter of the proposed move to Stratford, not because I want
to leave a ground that has been my family's second home since the 1920s, but
because I accept the need for a bigger stadium and the revenue that produces
as the only way to see the Hammers progress.

You only have to look at the state Liverpool have got themselves in trying
to compete with Manchester United using a stadium that holds 30,000 less
that Old Trafford. And how Everton have hit a glass ceiling because they
cannot move from their ageing Goodison Park.

You see why Fulham want to expand Craven Cottage and how desperate Spurs and
Chelsea are for stadiums that will allow them to progress to a higher level.

Small stadiums mean a club just cannot compete with the major clubs. So,
reluctantly I accepted the financial reasoning for a move to Stratford,
despite the running track.

I felt that we created a pretty a good atmosphere at the old Wembley in '64,
'65, '75 and '80 to win major trophies at a stadium with a track around the
pitch to believe that problem could be overcome in time.

But the Boleyn is our home. We love the place. Even our owners admit to
that. But when the Olympic stadium debate was at it's height, staying at the
Boleyn was never an option. Our owners made that pretty clear.

They claimed that the local police would not sanction an expanded Boleyn
because of the increased parking and transport problems around Upton Park.
They claimed that the local council would not be interested in granting
planning permission for a bigger stadium.

In effect to develop the Chicken Run side of the ground in the way it was
always intended when the new West stand was built and the pitch shifted away
from the East stand patrons. Gone at a stroke was the intimidating
atmosphere the Chicken Run crowd was famous for, where visiting fans were
reduced to panic and fear with our fans breathing down their necks.

A few home players could also be frightened into better performances after
some advice from the Chicken Run crowd. My dad told me how Stan Foxall was
hounded into better displays back in the '30s, and I recall Harry Redknapp
responded to verbal encouragement, for want of a better term!

But while Ms Brady was telling Sky that there was still an 'if' about
whether we went to Stratford, she also said that we would not leave the
Boleyn and that the stadium would be developed if the Olympic move fell
through.

The goal posts, of course, have been moved. It is now a lease we will be
trying to get in Stratford not the purchase of the stadium that so
frightened Spurs, who knew very well how dangerous we would be as neighbours
if we could pull 60,000 crowds while White Hart Lane was stuck in the
30,000s.

It meant they went to every means possible, some very dodgy indeed, to
scupper the original plans to sell the Olympic Stadium to ourselves, the
preferred bidders. They, along with Orient, achieved that and made no
friends at all in government and political circles. And the Police are
showing an interest now in some of the skulduggery that went on. Spurs never
wanted Stratford, they just wanted to stop us getting it.

But the world has changed. We have to make a decision soon on whether we
tender again this time as tenants, and with the prospect of sharing with all
sorts of other sports. One of which cannot be rugby because new rules, I
understand, from the Premier League will stop such new arrangements
(Swansea's agreement with Ospreys I would assume will be allowed because it
is already in existence, much the same as Wigan's with the Warriors).

But now Ms Brady has intimated that there are still 'ifs' and that the
Boleyn could be developed, my view - and I'm sure many others - will change.

The theory was that our owners wanted to get rid of the debts by selling the
Boleyn, get us back into the top flight and then expand into a 60,000
ground. Then, presumably, they could sell the club to big money foreign
buyers.

They were also looking to turn a profit, and I have no problems with that.
But if they are going to consider developing the Boleyn - a new East stand
could take our capacity to close on 50,000 - then they are obviously here
for the long haul.

I heard all the arguments about an expanded stadium being too much for the
infrastructure around a ground when Manchester United wanted to rebuild Old
Trafford. In those days the stadium held 55,000 tops. Now it has got close
to 80,000, and the local community has coped over the years.

Staying at Upton Park would clearly benefit the local business community.
The pubs, restaurants, shops, chippies, the local East Ham working men's
club I use prior to games, would all give a collective sigh of relief.

Coping with 15,000 extra fans would be a problem. But don't forget that the
transport links being upgraded around east London for the Olympics would
still be of benefit to us in the future. Being forced to walk to Stratford
at times over the past couple of seasons because of line closures has not
been too much of a hardship, has it?

Walking to Canning Town has also be an experience as well, but not
impossible. So we, and the community, would cope.

So let the government run the Olympic stadium the way they want. Let Orient
use it, I'm sure they'd love 3,000 fans scattered around the place. And
frankly, as long as we got a 50,000 capacity stadium at the Boleyn, Spurs
can have Stratford too. Call their bluff.

It would be no difference to the closeness they now have with Arsenal, but
just in a different direction.

But surely if we can stay where we are, and have a bigger stadium, that is
all that would matter. Our revenue would be boosted by a return to the top
flight, so it's down the Big Sam now to finish the job.

We've got 20 games left now and need another 40 points, if the manager's
calculations are correct. A couple of signings this month - a striker is a
must - and no selling of our best assets and we'll be back in the big times.
Easy, isn't it?

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Foxes join Vardy hunt
Pearson keen to win race for Fleetwood star
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
January 16, 2012 10:57pm
SSN

Sky Sports understands Leicester City have joined the chase for Fleetwood
hot-shot Jamie Vardy. A host of clubs are chasing Vardy with the striker
netting 17 goals in 18 league games for Fleetwood this season. Fleetwood
have already rejected a bid from Blackpool for the player this month, while
the likes of Fulham, Wolves, West Ham Reading, Southampton and Rangers have
all been credited with an interest in the player. Conference side Fleetwood
are reluctant to sell Vardy with the club striving to win promotion, but
they are set to have their resolve tested by Leicester. Foxes boss Nigel
Pearson is looking to bolster his attacking options and it is believed he
has put in a firm offer for Vardy as he looks to win the race for the
in-demand forward.

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Hammers looking to strengthen
West Ham looking to bring in up to two fresh faces in January
Last Updated: January 16, 2012 11:14am
SSN

West Ham's vice-chairman Karren Brady has confirmed the Championship
high-flyers are looking to strengthen in the January transfer window. The
Hammers have responded well to relegation with manager Sam Allardyce helping
the club to joint-top with Southampton in England's second tier. West Ham
have no plans to rest on their laurels and Brady believes with up to two
fresh faces at Upton Park the club can solidify their promotion push. The
club have already seen bids for players rejected while Brady has also
revealed they have turned down offers from elsewhere for their stars.

Strengthen

"I think the board took a view that we wanted a manager who really had the
right discipline, the right football and the right mentality to grind us out
of this league and I think Sam's definitely brought that," she told Sky
Sports. "He's definitely brought some structure, planning and process. We're
looking to strengthen the squad in the window. "We've had offers for players
that we won't accept and we've had offers to buy players that we've had
turned down so it's a January merry-go-round at the moment. We need one or
two to seal our final push. "Funds are available. We never put a price on
how much. Obviously we discuss that with the manager, but sadly we don't
discuss that with Sky Sports News. "One thing we're very mindful of is West
Ham needs its own stability. It's got its own debts and financial problems
that we've inherited. We need to think very carefully about the players that
we bring in, not just short term but ones that can make a long-term
contribution to West Ham's playing squad. We'll see what happens."

When quizzed whether Huddersfield's free-scoring striker Jordan Rhodes was
on the club's radar, Brady replied: "I think that's a far better question
for the manager, not the vice-chairman."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham consider fresh bid
Hammers deciding whether Olympic Stadium is in club's interest
Last Updated: January 16, 2012 11:23am
SSN

West Ham are considering a fresh bid to lease the Olympic Stadium, although
they will not leave Upton Park if unsuccessful. The Hammers were named as
the preferred bidders for the ground in February 2011, but the deal
collapsed in October amid concerns over delays caused by the legal dispute
with Tottenham.
The stadium will now remain in public ownership following the 2012 Games and
be leased out with the Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC) covering the cost
of transforming the venue. Brady insists the club will not leave even if
they miss out on the stadium, stating they will look to redevelop and
improve Upton Park if a plan B is required. However, in the short term,
Brady and co are deciding whether changing homes is even in the club's
interests after a new deal was placed on the table.

Consideration

"The new tender has come out and we're going through that at the moment. If
we decide to tender again our application will go in by the 23rd of March
and the deadline for a decision is the 21st of May, so it will come around
pretty quickly," Brady told Sky Sports News. "We're in the data room at the
minute looking at the processes, looking at what's on offer, looking at
being a tenant and an owner and working out whether that fits in with West
Ham's plan. "I think we'd look to improve and develop Upton Park if we
stayed. If we moved it would be to the Olympic Stadium due to its close
proximity. It's in our borough. It's in our heartland. It needs a legacy.
"One of the things it was built for was to create that legacy and we really
think football and athletics can work together to create the jobs and
community. Things have to be right. It has to be right from a football point
of view, from a spectator point of view and from a business point of view.
"West Ham hasn't decided if it wants to tender yet. We're still going
through all of the details. We have to decide whether it's right for us
bearing in mind the criteria has changed. We were the preferred bidder. They
weren't our rules. It wasn't a process we set up. We abided by that process,
we played by the rules. We have to look if it's still the same and the right
opportunity for West Ham."

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West Ham decide against Maeda
Hammers won't sign Asian ace
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
January 15, 2012 10:05am
SSN

West Ham United have decided against signing Japan international Ryoichi
Maeda after an unsuccessful trial at the club. The Jubilo Iwata forward
received an invitation in early December to train with the Championship
outfit, and has spent the last three days under the watchful eye of Hammers
boss Sam Allardyce and his coaching staff. According to Iwata club president
Hiroyuki Yoshino, Maeda will be returning to the J-League side as soon as
possible. "We understand they were unable to agree terms," he told Reuters.
Maeda, who scored 14 goals in 28 league appearances last season, will be
disappointed that he may not get another opportunity to play abroad. "At my
age, this is likely my last chance to play overseas and I want to do
everything possible to make it happen," the 30 year-old was quoted as saying
earlier in the week.

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Transfer Update Monday 16th
January 16th, 2012 - 4:23 pm by Bradley Palmer
West Ham Till I Die

20:00 Update: Massive rumour flying about that we are set to sign Diouf. No,
not El Hadj, the young striker from Man Utd. It is being mooted that a loan
deal is lined up until the end of the season. I haven't received any info
myself on this but will be sure to check it out. Thoughts guys…

16:34 Update: Guardian running story that we are interested in taking Villa
midfielder Fabian Delph on loan.

Okay, so we are halfway there and have currently completed only the one deal
this month with centre back George John joining on an initial 2 month loan
with a view to a permanent switch. We remain in the hunt for at the very
least 1 further addition but are hoping for two more players to arrive
before the close of the window later this month.

It appears that Maeda who had a successful trial, regardless to widespread
reports that he didn't do well, could not agree terms on a deal which would
have seen him join Whu. I'm told Big Sam was very impressed with the
Japanese born striker but the player failed to agree on the terms in place
and has now travelled back to his present club. That deal I can now confirm
is dead.

Talksport have today run a story linking us with Yannick Sagbo, a striker
who I honestly don't know a great deal about. He is the half brother of Guy
Demel and Big Sam has confirmed that we have watched him play but no further
than that. Keep a look out for developments on this one.

My source this morning confirmed our interest in Burnley striker Jay
Rodriguez and also Watford striker Marvin Sordell with bids in for both
players, that being a second bid of an improved £2.5m for Sordell. We
currently await an answer in regards to both players. Reports regarding
Sharp's transfer collapse to Leicester have currently come to nothing as no
further offer from Whu has gone in as of yet. I'll let you know if that
changes.

Celik, a wide player who is currently a free agent is still hoped that a
deal can be struck but there has been no further developments on this at the
moment that I can report.

January is certainly proving to be an extremely difficult window to attract
players into the club but I can assure fans that Whu are trying there very
best to get the players in but it hasn't been easy. They remain optimistic
though that a few deals can be done soon. Keep on the look out!

On a side note, anyone else see Karen Brady on Sky Sports News today. She
has spoken out saying that we may opt against putting a bid in for the OS
and instead stay at Upton Park and try to push plans ahead for
redevelopments to the ground. Well DG said on twitter that this was a no go.
Will be very interesting to see what goes on there.

Bradley Palmer

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Hammers tempt Cardiff with £3m bid for Whittingham
Published 22:19 15/01/12 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

WEST HAM have left a £3million bid on the table for in-demand Cardiff
midfielder Peter Whittingham. Ex-Aston Villa trainee Whittingham, 27, is a
wanted man after bagging eight goals this season. Top-flight West Brom are
also interested in the ace but promotion hopefuls Cardiff do not want to
sell.

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West Ham United consider Olympic Stadium bid
4:20pm Monday 16th January 2012 in News
Guardian Series

West Ham United have yet to decide whether they will bid to lease the
Olympic Stadium. The Hammers are interested in moving to the new venue but
if this does not go through they will instead look to redevelop Upton Park.
Vice-chairman Karren Brady told Sky Sports News: "The new tender has come
out and we're going through that at the moment. If we decide to tender again
our application will go in by the 23rd of March and the deadline for a
decision is the 21st of May, so it will come around pretty quickly. "We're
in the data room at the minute looking at the processes, looking at what's
on offer, looking at being a tenant and an owner and working out whether
that fits in with West Ham's plan. "I think we'd look to improve and develop
Upton Park if we stayed. If we moved it would be to the Olympic Stadium due
to its close proximity. It's in our borough. It's in our heartland. It needs
a legacy."

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West Ham United interested in Leeds United target and Aston Villa midfielder
Fabian Delph
2:30pm Monday 16th January 2012 in News
Guardian Series

West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing Aston Villa midfielder
Fabian Delph. The 20-year-old is available on loan but is believed to favour
a move back to former club Leeds United. Delph left Elland Road in 2009 for
almost £8m but has suffered a series of injuries at Villa Park.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham keeping tabs on Ivory Coast striker
By talkSPORT
Monday, January 16, 2012

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed that the club are keeping tabs on
Yannick Sagbo - who is desperate for a move to Upton Park. The Evian striker
is the half brother of Hammers full-back Guy Demel and last week revealed he
would love to link up with him in east London. Allardyce is in the market
for a new striker as he attempts to steer West Ham back to the Premier
League at the first time of asking and has been linked with Huddersfield's
Jordan Rhodes, Bristol City's Nicky Maynard and Doncaster's Billy Sharp. The
manager has also been scouring the continent in search of new strikers and
admits Sagbo is a player who has caught the eye. But asked whether he has
made a bid for the striker, who has scored seven goals in 19 Ligue 1
appearances the season, Allardcye said: "He's someone that we've watched,
that's all, nothing more than that yet."

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Allardyce targets strong finish
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce feels his squad will end the January transfer
window far stronger than they began it.
TalkSport
Last Updated: 16/01/12 at 13:47 Post Comment

The Hammers were rocked by injuries and suspensions at the turn of the year
but now only Matt Taylor and Guy Demel are left in the treatment room.
Allardyce has also strengthened his defence with the signing of American
centre-half George John and remains in the market for a striker before the
transfer window shuts. "The squad is bigger, stronger and better than it has
been for a long time, and there is still Matt and Guy to come back as well,"
he said. "So if we can add one along the front to that, we have got George
John now and Gary O'Neil is back, so things are looking good squad-wise."

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Alladyce fury at Hammers lack of clinical touch
1:30pm Monday 16th January 2012 in Sport
Thurrock Gazette

WEST HAM: West Ham manager Sam Allardyce wants to sign another striker
during the January transfer window because he feels his side are not
clinical enough — despite seeing them beat Portsmouth 1-0 at Fratton Park.
Midfielder Mark Noble (pictured below celebrating) scored the only goal of
Saturday's game from the penalty spot to keep up the Hammer's pursuit of
Championship table-toppers Southampton. And Allardyce admits he is going to
have to sign another forward after watching his side score just once in a
dominant performance at Fratton Park. They were even unable to double their
lead after the sending off of David Norris and Allardyce said: "Even with
all the chances we created we have only won the game by a penalty so it was
very important it was put away. "I am looking for another striker because
from the chances we created we have not been clinical enough and that has
been a problem. "The good thing is we have one of the best defensive records
in the league and that is a positive for us and means we will always be up
where we want to be. "Apart from the last 10 minutes of the first half we
were solid defensively. We took control of a game against a side who are
brilliant at home. "We could have won more convincingly after the sending
off. We are delighted with the performance and the result."

The match started slowly but the Hammers took the lead on 24-minutes when
Tal Ben Haim pulled down Winston Reid in the box and Noble converted the
penalty.
Portsmouth had a good chance five minutes from the interval when Liam
Lawrence curled an effort into the corner from 12-yards which was well
tipped round the post by Robert Green. From the resulting corner, Lawrence
crossed for Jason Pearce whose volley was brilliantly saved by Green. Pompey
went down to 10 men on 56 minutes when Norris was given his marching orders
for a tackle from behind on Reid. Lawrence had a free-kick in the last
minute from 20-yards but it hit the wall and West Ham held out for three
vital points. While Allardyce was unhappy with his strikers, Portsmouth boss
Michael Appleton blasted referee Kevin Friend, accusing him of allowing the
West Ham players to influence his decisions. Appleton said: "It was not a
sending off, it was harsh. I do not think it was a two-footed challenge and
it was not a tackle from behind. "The biggest disappointment was I have
never seen a red card pulled out of a pocket so quickly in my life. We were
put on the back foot after that. "It was not a penalty. It was harsh. I
think there was two or three West Ham players refereeing the game. We should
have had a handball at the end as well. "You need the referee to be strong
and I do not think he was. I felt some of the West Ham players were having
an influence on his decisions."

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DAGENHAM EXTEND LOAN FOR WEST HAM YOUNGSTER
Daily Star
17th January 2012 By Daily Star Reporter

DAGENHAM have extended the loan of West Ham midfielder Cristian Montano, 20,
for a third month but he is not eligible for tonight's FA Cup third-round
replay at Millwall.

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