Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 4th August 2008

Midfield duo 'a big plus' - WHUFC
Kevin Keen was happy to see Lee Bowyer and Matthew Etherington get an
extended weekend run-out
03.08.2008

Kevin Keen was pleased after another good test for his West Ham United XI at
the weekend with confidence mounting ahead of the new campaign.

Despite losing out 2-1 away to Grays Athletic, Kevin Keen was able to dig
out positives from the match, including a successful run out for two
experienced first-teamers Matthew Etherington and Lee Bowyer following an
extended injury absence. "It was a big plus that they both came through,"
said Keen. "All seems fine and there were no problems, so hopefully they
will be in and around the first-team for this week's games."

Keen said: "It was a good stiff game for us. Grays played some good
football, similar to what Cambridge United did last week. It was a good test
for us. We were disappointed with the goals we conceded, but that's football
and it is all things that the young boys can learn from and hopefully, be
better for it."

The reserve-team coach said the young players were benefitting from taking
part in these pre-season friendlies, and some are now firmly in the frame to
join the senior selection at Ipswich on Monday night. "I think this game
showed that we have a little way to go, some players are in front of others,
but we will see how we go. Some of them will travel with the first team on
Monday and others will be playing on Tuesday at Bishop's Stortford."

Zavon Hines scored his fifth goal in as many games and is just one of
several players aiming to follow team-mates Jack Collison, James Tomkins and
Freddie Sears into the first-team picture. "There is competition, but that
is good. They all want to be the next ones who break through," said Keen.
"They all muck in together, there's a good spirit. They were glad that Jack,
Freddie and James have got their senior debuts and they too want to be the
ones playing in the Premier League."

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Ashton set to face Ipswich - WHUFC
The manager should have Dean Ashton back on Monday evening while Carlton
Cole is likely to sit out
03.08.2008

West Ham United travel to Ipswich on Monday night hopeful that Dean Ashton
will be back to take his place in the starting lineup.

Ashton has sat out the last two first-team friendlies after being laid low
by illness but is expected to return, possibly alongside Craig Bellamy. He
may take the place of Carlton Cole who took a knock on his ankle at
Southampton on Friday but is also expected to play next weekend at home
against Villarreal. Freddie Sears is making good progress from his bruised
foot suffered in midweek so Alan Curbishley, who has another young striker
in Zavon Hines in prolific form, could have a full complement of forwards by
the weekend.

First up is the trip to Portman Road and the manager is looking forward to
the contest. "We will take a lot of fans there," he said. "It should be a
terrific atmosphere and I am hoping for a better performance [than the 2-2
draw with Southampton]. We are looking forward to the game." The manager has
also admitted there could be one or two new faces before the start of the
season. "I think you will see lots of clubs reacting to different issues. We
will be no different to that," he added.

While George McCartney trained over the weekend, Matthew Etherington, Luis
Boa Morte and Lee Bowyer may figure at Ipswich or Bishop's Stortford on
Tuesday. Kieron Dyer will not play this week, despite initial hopes. The
midfielder is still training and strengthening after his double leg break
but is not yet ready for match action and there is no desire to rush him
back. Having had his injury assessed at the end of last week by the club's
new chief medical officer, Dyer will continue on a specialist rehabilitation
programme over the next six weeks before a period of pre-season style
training.

Meanwhile, Curbishley is more than content with the form shown by Valon
Behrami, his summer signing from Lazio and knows he offers plenty of
versatility. He said: "He has only done a week's training. We have thrown
him in at the deep end ... He is a great athlete. We know he can play
right-back and we know he can play wide right. He can also play in the
centre of midfield so we are just assessing it at the moment. He is getting
to know everybody."

Young forward Hines has been at the club for some time as an Academy product
and Curbishley was delighted to see him progressing this summer. He said:
"He has got that unpredictability. He is not afraid to turn on balls going
into him which is a great asset and he is not afraid to try things ... He
went off to Coventry and scored a vital goal for them in their survival bid
last year. He has grown up a little bit. He has got a little bit of flair, a
little bit about him that he is not afraid to try things."

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Dyer out until October - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd August 2008
By: Staff Writer

Alan Curbishley was handed another massive injury blow this weekend when it
was revealed that Kieron Dyer will be out of action until October at the
earliest.

The England international had set tomorrow night's trip to Ipswich as his
comeback game some 11 months after suffering a double break in a Carling Cup
tie against Bristol Rovers last year. But West Ham United confirmed today
that Dyer faces at least another six weeks on the sidelines before once
again returning to training.

A piece in this morning's News of the World claimed that Dyer would be out
for another four months after suffering a stress fracture on the same leg
that was broken last year. That story is thought to have prompted United's
confirmation over Dyer's status; the club stating this afternoon that the
former Newcastle player will 'continue on a specialist rehabilitation
programme over the next six weeks before a period of pre-season style
training' having been 're-assessed by the club's new chief medical officer',
Nikos Tzouroudis.

There is slightly better news for Carlton Cole, who was injured during the
2-2 draw at Southampton on Friday night. Cole, who injured an ankle and was
immediately substituted will miss the trip to Ipswich but, according to the
club's website whufc.com, should return for the visit of Villarreal next
weekend.

Dean Ashton, who has missed United's last two pre-season run-outs should
return to partner Craig Bellamy at Portman Road tomorrow night.

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Hammers reject Ashton exit talk - SSN
Reports claim Dyer has suffered new injury blow
Last updated: 3rd August 2008

West Ham have rejected reports that they would be prepared to sell striker
Dean Ashton to any of their Premier League rivals. England international
Ashton only recently committed himself to the Upton Park club for the
long-term future when he put pen to paper on a five-year deal. And the
Hammers have moved quickly to reject speculation that they are considering
an £18million offer for the Norwich ace. Hammers chief executive Scott
Duxbury told the News of the World: "Hell would have to freeze over for us
to sell Dean to a major rival."
Meanwhile, injury-hit midfielder Kieron Dyer could be set for a further
lengthy spell on the sidelines. The News of the World claim that the former
England international has suffered a new stress fracture to the right leg he
badly broke in August last year. Dyer could now be facing another spell on
the sidelines, just days after speaking of his delight to be back in
contention for Alan Curbishley's side.

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Anton Ferdinand says he is staying at West Ham - The Mirror
sundaymirror.co.uk 3/08/2008

Anton Ferdinand has rejected rumours linking him with a move from West Ham.
The 23-year-old has been at the centre of transfer speculation with
Sunderland and Tottenham linked with the former England Under-21
international. But Ferdinand, who has two years left on his deal at Upton
Park, says he's keen to continue playing for boss Alan Curbishley. The
defender said: "I'm concentrating on getting fit for West Ham and I'm
looking forward to the start of the season. "I don't think about the
speculation. I'm under contract and love playing for the club. "If you asked
the fans about me when they see me playing, I don't look like I'm thinking
about anything but West Ham."

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Gudjohnsen Will Not Be Boleyn Bound - WestHamFans.org
Submitted by Neville Nixon on 3 August, 2008 - 18:36.

Despite saying that there would be no further updates until Wednesday, we
are able to confirm that Eidur Gudjohnsen will not be heading to the Boleyn.
Barcelona´s Gudjohnsen has been a long term target for West Ham, but despite
Carlton Cole´s injury and rumours of Kieron Dyer being unfit, Hammers will
be unable to recruit the Icelandic International. Once upon a time we had a
´special´realationship with certain employees of West Ham United, but this
story is courtesy of a ´higher order Doris´. As luck would have it, through
our contact, we were introduced to various board members of Barcelona
including a tour of the stadium ( it´s amazing what a bona fide press card
can do for you in Europe), but the most significant event was being able to
ask and being told of Barcelona´s plans for Gudjohnsen. Essentially he will
stay at least until the January transfer window, there is an agreement in
place for a full review of the player´s situation and he has expressed a
desire to stay in Spain despite the overtures from West Ham among several
other English Premier League clubs. Incidentally, the spurious anti West Ham
stories emanating from that trusty rag ´the daily snail´ have a lot to do
with the afters generated by the Tevezgate situation, in case anyone had not
realised half their f·····g staff are Blades supporters, as are the entire
overpaid under worked staff of BBC radio North! - Ed

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Sunday Update: Number 6 Shirt to be Retired - West Ham Till I Die

Like you all I am devastated by the news that Kieron Dyer will be out for a
further four months with a stress fracture. You've got to feel for the guy.
Admittedly the report was in the News of the World, but it carried too much
information to be made up.

Also in the News of the World was that West Ham have turned down an £18
million bid for Dean Ashton. Scott Duxbury said hell would have to freeze
over before West Ham sold him. Comments like that always make me nervous!

The NOTW further reported that West Ham will announce next week that they
will retire the Number 6 shirt in Bobby Moore's honour. I don't support
that. If it was to be done, it should have been done within a year of his
death. They also say there will be a permanent reminder of Moore in the
ground with a giant billboard with a Number 6 on it.

There are also further rumours that the Nicky Shorey transfer is back on and
will be completed this week.

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West Ham to field strong line up - ipswichtownmad.co.uk
By Chris Sunday, 3rd August 2008

West Ham United are set to field a strong line up in the Monday night clash
with Ipswich Town . West Ham are set to take no mercy when they come to
Portman Road. They're hoping to have Dean Ashton back in their starting
eleven, who has been struggling with an illness in recent weeks. Craig
Bellamy is likely to join him in attack, which will provide Town with their
sternest test of their pre-season campaign. Meanwhile former Town favourite,
Keiron Dyer, will not feature. West Ham boss Alan Curbishley does not want
to rush him back after his horrendous leg injury. Other Midfielders, Lee
Bowyer, Mathew Etherington and Luis Boa Morte are all likely to play some
part in the eagerly anticipated match. Curbishley expects many fans to make
the away trip to Portman Road, although they will be hoping to see more than
they did against Southampton, which ended in a 2 - 2 draw. Curbishley: "We
will take a lot of fans there. It should be a terrific atmosphere and I am
hoping for a better performance [than the 2-2 draw with Southampton]. We are
looking forward to the game".
Richard Wright will be one who is especially looking forward to the game,
where he will meet up with his former team mates. Town fans will also be
looking forward to this match, many still not forgetting their play-off
defeat against the Hammers.

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West Ham braced for Spurs bid for Ashton
tribalfooball.com - August 03, 2008

West Ham United expect Tottenham to make a fresh move for striker Dean
Ashton. The News of the World says the Hammers are bracing themselves for an
£18million offer. With Robbie Keane sold to Liverpool and Dimitar Berbatov's
future still in the balance, Spurs are running out of time to bolster their
strike force before the start of the season. But West Ham's chief executive
Scott Duxbury insisted the England ace, 24, will not be sold as he recently
agreed a new £50,000 a week, five-year deal. Duxbury said: "Hell would have
to freeze over for us to sell Dean to a major rival. "It would be no
surprise to us if there are certain clubs who would be interested in him.
"But we worked very hard to put together a deal to keep Dean at the club and
he remains a massive part of our ambitious plans."

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New setback for West Ham's Dyer
tribalfooball.com - August 03, 2008

West Ham's injury-hit midfielder Kieron Dyer could be set for a further
lengthy spell on the sidelines. The News of the World says the former
England international has suffered a new stress fracture to the right leg he
badly broke in August last year. Dyer could now be facing another spell on
the sidelines, just days after speaking of his delight to be back in
contention for Alan Curbishley's side.

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West Ham coach Keen: Kids want to follow Sears
tribalfooball.com - August 03, 2008

West Ham reserves coach Kevin Keen admits several of his youngsters are
battling to catch the eye of manager Alan Curbishley. Zavon Hines scored his
fifth goal in as many games against Grays Athletic last week and is just one
of several players aiming to follow team-mates Jack Collison, James Tomkins
and Freddie Sears into the first-team picture. "There is competition, but
that is good. They all want to be the next ones who break through," Keen
told whufc.com. "They all muck in together, there's a good spirit. They were
glad that Jack, Freddie and James have got their senior debuts and they too
want to be the ones playing in the Premier League."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 3rd August 2008

Bowyer back in Grays loss - WHUFC
Kevin Keen had a few experienced performers on view in Saturday afternoon's
friendly at Grays Athletic
02.08.2008

Grays Athletic 2-1 West Ham United XI

It is now five goals in five matches for Zavon Hines who scored a first-half
penalty but could not prevent a youthful West Ham United narrowly losing to
Conference outfit Grays Athletic on Saturday afternoon.

Hines, who has struck three match-winning penalties plus two goals from open
play in pre-season friendlies this summer, was on target again as Kevin
Keen's side visited the Recreation Ground but Grays responded well through
Ishamel Welsh and Charlie Ide. The match, watched by a 1,372-strong crowd,
marked a return to action for the first time since 9 February for Lee
Bowyer, who has been out with a groin injury. Matthew Etherington also made
his first appearance after suffering with blisters since the MLS All-Star
Game and Jack Collison was captain, partnering Bowyer, in central midfield.

Icelandic central defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson was making his third
appearance for West Ham United after performances at Thurrock and Cambridge
United. Also in the visiting lineup was Michalis Konstantinou, a Cypriot
international striker who is out of contract and has been training at
Chadwell Heath. The 30-year-old has proven Champions League experience with
Panathinaikos and Olympiakos in Greece and is the latest player to be
assessed after being identified by the club's extensive scouting network

The home side featured Welsh, a former Academy trainee who spent time at the
Boleyn Ground between 2005 and 2006. It was Grays who had the first real
shot of the game, Jamie Taylor getting into space only to see his shot go
wide. At the other end, Hines showed some good skill to evade his markers
and ran towards goal before the resulting effort was blocked.

The young striker appeared to be fouled in the box but the referee waved
away any appeals. That came on 37th minutes but, two minutes later, Hines
was again able to make his mark when he was once more brought down, this
time by John Ashton. The 19-year-old brushed himself off and sent a
confident strike into the back of the net to put West Ham United in front.

Bowyer and Etherington were linking up well, with the latter firing an
angled shot which forced Grays keeper Steve Arnold to save well. But it was
all-square a minute before half-time when Welsh picked up a good Ide pass
and slotted the ball in. At the start of the second half, Keen made his
first change replacing Konstantinou with Tony Stokes. Etherington also came
off for Junior Stanislas on 54 minutes before Bowyer made way for Joe
Widdowson in the 67th minute.

On 75 minutes, Tom Harvey and Ryan O'Neill replaced Eyjolfsson and Collison.
Hines nearly grabbed his second of the match on 83 minutes only to shoot
straight at the keeper but, right at the death, Ide made it 2-1 to the home
side when he slid in to score from a rebounded shot. Despite the scoreline,
it was another valuable work-out which saw two more first-team players get
vital match fitness and Hines give further food for thought to the coaching
staff.

West Ham United: Street, Spence, Eyjolfsson (Harvey 75), N'Gala, Miller,
Jeffery, Bowyer (Widdowson 67), Collison (O'Neill 75), Etherington
(Stanislas 54), Konstantinou (Stokes 46), Hines
Subs: Miklosko, Edgar

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Grays Athletic 2 West Ham Utd XI 1 - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd August 2008
By: Staff Writer

A goal in the final minute of each half at the New Rec condemned Kevin
Keen's reserves to their first defeat of pre-season. A youthful looking
Hammers side - featuring just Lee Bowyer, Matthew Etherington and Jack
Collison from the first team squad plus trialist Michalis Konstantinou -
suffered their first defeat in four thanks to a last minute winner from
Athletic's Charlie Ide. Zavon Hines had given United a first half lead from
the penalty spot against the run of play after 39 minutes when smashing the
ball low into the bottom corner after being pulled down in the box by former
Leicester trainee Jon Ashton. It was no more than the young striker had
deserved, having been denied a cast-iron penalty for a similar infringement
two minutes earlier. But the home side were back on level terms with
virtually the last kick of the first half; Ishmael Welsh, a former Hammers
trainee who left the club in 2006 had given Jordan Spence a torrid time on
the left flank in the first half and was duly rewarded for his efforts with
a goal, scoring from close range with the United defence all at sea.
Trialist Konstantinou was replaced by Tony Stokes at the break after failing
to impress, as the Hammers began the second period in much better shape than
they ended the first. Hines - who has now hit five goals in his last five
games - thought he had notched his second of the afternoon after sliding the
ball home from close range. However the referee's assistant thought
differently and his effort was ruled out for offside. As the half wore on
Kevin Keen decided to ring the changes further, introducing Tom Harvey, Joe
Widdowson, Ryan O'Neill and Junior Stanislas for Holmar Eyjolfsson, Jack
Collison, Lee Bowyer and Matthew Etherington. The home side began to dictate
play once again but it was Zavon Hines who had the best chance of the second
half with just seven minutes remaining when put clean through on goal - only
to fire his shot straight at Athletic's 18-year-old keeper Steve Arnold.
As both sides traded blows with the final whistle drawing closer , the
Hammers saw chances from Tony Stokes and Jack Jeffrey fail to break the
deadlock. At the other end, United keeper Adam Street had to be alert to
deny Athletic twice within two minutes as the Blue Square Premier side
threatened to snatch victory. But Street was unable to prevent Grays from
snatching victory in the final few seconds of the game when new Grays
signing Ide pounced on a rebound to fire the winner from the edge of the
six-yard box much to the delight of the home fans behind the goal. It was a
disappointing finale to the game for the Hammers, but one that the home side
just about deserved on balance of play.
However there were plenty of positives to come from the game; another goal
for Zavon Hines plus the return to action of Messrs Etherington and Bowyer,
both of whom could be called upon by Alan Curbishley next weekend when
United take on Villarreal at the Boleyn Ground. Next up for the reserves is
the trip to Bishops Stortford on Tuesday night. The first team squad are
next in action at Ipswich on Monday night.

West Ham United: Street, Spence, Eyjolfsson (Harvey 75), N'Gala, Miller,
Jeffery, Bowyer (Widdowson 67), Collison (O'Neill 75), Etherington
(Stanislas 54), Konstantinou (Stokes 46), Hines.
Subs not used: Miklosko, Edgar.
Attendance:1,372.

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West Jan - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd August 2008
By: Staff Writer

Jan Lastuvka has been talking about his move to West Ham, which is expected
to be completed shortly. Official confirmation of the Czech goalkeeper's
switch is expected by the club sometime in the next 48 hours, after
Lastuvka's medical completed without a hitch on Friday. He will sign a
12-month loan deal with an option to buy should his year in London prove
successful. However the 26-year-old - who spent last season on loan with
German side VfL Bochum - is under no illusion that he will need to step up
his game if he is to earn a permanent deal with United. "I need to adapt
quickly and convince the club that they have not made a mistake in signing
me," he said. "I want this spell to be more successful than the one with
Fulham. "I would like my performances to be on par with my last six months
at Bochum. It is good that Mr.Miklosko will be able to help me from the
beginning. "But it is also clear to me that, as his compatriot, I will be
under more pressure. I believe I will not disappoint anyone."
Lastuvka also revealed that he had signed a new three-year deal with current
club Shaktar Donetsk to where he will return if he fails to secure a
permanent move to West Ham. "I had to sign a new contract which was
Shaktar's condition of the loan deal," he confirmed. "But if I return from
England the new contract is on a bigger wage."

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Lastuvka passes Hammers medial - SSN
Czech shot-stopper one step closer to move
By Vasek Kadlec Last updated: 2nd August 2008

Shakhtar Donetsk keeper Jan Lastuvka is one step closer to joining West Ham
after passing a routine medical. The 26-year-old Czech Republic shot-stopper
is set to join the East Londoners on a one-year loan deal with a view to a
permanent move. Lastuvka has already had one spell in England with Fulham,
although he was unable to secure regular football ahead of Antti Niemi. "I'm
glad it's turned out like this," Lastuvka told CTK. "I am looking forward to
playing for West Ham and I'll do my best to repay their faith in me."
Lastuvka is also relishing the prospect of working under fellow countryman
Ludek Miklosko, who is the goalkeeper coach at Upton Park. "It's a big plus.
I think the co-operation with him can help me a lot in improving my skills,"
he concluded.

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Young Hammers lose at Grays - SSN
Bowyer makes comeback in West Ham XI loss
By James Pearson Last updated: 2nd August 2008

Lee Bowyer made his comeback for West Ham on Saturday, but could not prevent
a youthful-looking Hammers from slipping to defeat. Zavon Hinds made it
five goals in five matches with his first-half penalty, although Kevin
Keen's Hammers XI lost 2-1 at Grays Athletic. Shortly before half-time West
Ham forged ahead when 19-year-old Hinds netted after he was originally
brought down in the penalty area. However, it failed to last until the
interval as Ishmael Welsh equalised for the home side with a neat finish.
Just when it looked like the contest might finish all-square, Charlie Ide
slid the ball home from close range to condemn West Ham to defeat.

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Coppell expects Shorey exit - SSN
Reading boss predicts defender will leave in coming days
By James Dall Last updated: 2nd August 2008

Reading manager Steve Coppell expects left-back Nicky Shorey to secure a
transfer back to the Premier League in the coming days. Shorey has been
strongly linked with a return to England's top flight this summer following
the Royals' relegation to the Championship. West Ham United have previously
been linked with the defender, but Portsmouth and Aston Villa appear to be
the current frontrunners to land his signature. And Coppell has confirmed
that interest is growing in the England international, although Reading have
yet to accept a bid. He said: "To be fair to Nicky Shorey, he has made it
clear from this time last year that he would prefer to leave and ply his
trade elsewhere. "We as a club have an asset and it is a delicate balancing
act between trying to satisfy the demands of the player and also trying to
satisfy the demands of the football club. "We had a good talk yesterday,
there was a little bit of interest last week and the chances are he will be
gone by next week. I am 60-40 convinced that he will be gone. "The offer was
a firm one but we have no need to sell anyone and I'm not going to give
anyone away. "It has to be a realistic bid in terms of market valuation, and
bear in mind that 12 months ago he was coming off the back of playing two
games for England against Brazil and Germany. "I don't feel disposed to let
him go for nothing. I appreciate it is a year on from that particular
moment, but as yet the valuation is not what we find acceptable."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 2nd August 2008

Hines stunner ensures draw - WHUFC
Zavon Hines came off the bench to strike a superb equaliser in a competitive
pre-season friendly
01.08.2008

Southampton 2-2 West Ham United

In-form striker Zavon Hines came off the bench to score a second-half
equaliser as West Ham United fought back from two-nil down at Southampton on
Friday night.

A 12,314-strong crowd at St Mary's watched the teams play in a pre-season
friendly for the Ted Bates Trophy, with captains Lucas Neill and Michael
Svensson sharing the spoils. After two goals from Saints youngster David
McGoldrick had stunned the travelling support, who made up a quarter of the
crowd but dominated the atmosphere, Calum Davenport grabbed a goal back just
before the interval. Hines then pounced to make it all square midway through
the second half.

Alan Curbishley fielded a strong side - with Valon Behrami making his second
appearance in the space of three days. Marek Stech was given a start in goal
while Davenport partnered Matthew Upson in the centre of defence as Anton
Ferdinand began on the bench. Hayden Mullins was recalled to the side to
partner Scott Parker in midfield with Mark Noble making way. Craig Bellamy,
who netted two goals at Peterborough on Tuesday night, was alongside Carlton
Cole up front.

The first real attack of the night came from the home side, when Lee Holmes
sent in a flying shot which Stech did well to stop. At the other end, Neill
surged into a good forward position only for his effort to be blocked, with
Cole and Bellamy trying to snatch the rebound before it was cleared to
safety. Bellamy then combined well with Kyel Reid to cross into the box, but
the ball just fell too far in front of Julien Faubert.

Stech then gathered well with a close-range effort before McGoldrick watched
a searing shot go wide. The warning had been fired. Moments later, the
20-year-old struck from close range. The striker put his side 2-0 up within
five minutes, running through and putting a shot beyond Stech to make it 2-0
to Southampton.

West Ham United were not down and out though. As half-time approached,
Bellamy raced through and was only just denied before Faubert's well-taken
corner was met perfectly by the head of Davenport, who had been equally
impressive in his more regular defensive duties. Bellamy nearly added
another just before the half-time whistle with an overhead kick, but the
Saints keeper got a hand to clear.

Curbishley made his first change at the start of the second half, with Noble
replacing Bellamy. McGoldrick was still lively, shooting just wide after 54
minutes and then again two minutes later, when he saw his run blocked by the
combination of Neill and Behrami. West Ham United made a triple substitution
in the 69th minute, Ferdinand and Widdowson replacing Upson and Reid
respectively while Cole walked off after a knock to give Hines his chance.

Six minutes later, Hines made his mark as he received the ball from Behrami,
swivelled and lashed into the net. It was the fourth goal in as many games
for the 19-year-old who is looking to make his mark in and around the first
team this season, having been spurred on by the feats of Freddie Sears and
performed well in a loan at the end of last season with Coventry City.

Jack Collison came on for Parker on 62 minutes, before Curbishley also
brought on Tony Stokes for the industrious Faubert. Ferdinand cleared well
as Southampton looked to try and get back in front and Stech made a good
save from McGoldrick. The visitors finished the stronger though with
Collison, Stanislas and Hines all hungry to make a contribution and, but for
more composure, could have snatched victory in the final minutes.

Southampton: Bartosz Bialowski, Lloyd James, Andew Surman, Morgan
Schneiderlin, Michael Svensson, Chris Perry, Jake Thomson, Simon Gillett,
Adam Lallana, David McGoldrick, Lee Holmes.
Substitutes: Tommy Forecast, Aarran Racine, Paul Wootton, Joseph Mills,
Bradley Wright-Phillips, Stern John, Grzegorz Rasiak, Nathan Dyer.

West Ham United: Marek Stech, Lucas Neill (c), Calum Davenport, Matthew
Upson (Ferdinand 59) Valon Behrami (Stokes 76), Scott Parker (Collison 62)
Julian Faubert (Stanislas 71), Craig Bellamy (Noble 45), Kyel Reid
(Widdowson, 59), Carlton Cole (Hines 60), Hayden Mullins.
Subs not used: Robert Green, Jordan Spence.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs cheered by effort - WHUFC
A chance for Marek Stech and Zavon Hines to shine and more fitness gained
left the manager upbeat
02.08.2008

Alan Curbishley was delighted with the work-out and his youngsters' progress
after a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Southampton on Friday night.

The manager admitted his side's passing could have been better but was full
of praise for the character and commitment shown in coming from two-nil
down. "It was a very open game," he said. "It was a decent work-out and a
lot of the young lads have got some great experience." He was specifically
referring to goalkeeper Marek Stech who got 90 minutes, and second-half
substitute Zavon Hines, who finished the scoring with a superb strike. Stech
could do nothing about either of David McGoldrick's goals which put Saints
on their way before Calum Davenport pulled one back just before the interval

In-form forward Hines, with four goals now in pre-season, came on for
Carlton Cole who came off with a sore ankle. The replaced forward, with the
games deliberately coming thick and fast to get as much football into the
whole squad as possible, may now be the next to be rested for Monday's trip
to Ipswich Town. Craig Bellamy, who also felt the force of a couple of
challenges, could well be reunited at Portman Road with Dean Ashton. The No9
trained on Friday after illness and Curbishley added: "We are hoping over
the weekend that he gets his strength back up and he can play."

Also getting closer are James Tomkins after a knee knock and Freddie Sears,
who picked up a bruised foot in midweek against Cambridge United. Matthew
Etherington is back after blistered feet and may get his second run-out in
ten days when Kevin Keen takes a West Ham United XI to Grays Athletic on
Saturday with Lee Bowyer also among those in the frame. With an intense
pre-season schedule helping raise fitness levels, Curbishley is focused on
the positives. "There is quite a few of them going home really pleased with
tonight," he said.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southampton 2-2 West Ham United FT - WHUFC
All the action as it happened from St Mary's Stadium as Alan Curbishley's
men came from behind to draw
01.08.2008

Pre-season friendly
St Mary's Stadium
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Referee: Paul Taylor

Full time: 2-2

87min - Stanislas fizzes one in that the keeper just pushes wide. Great
effort.

86min - McGoldrick works an opening but Stech is again equal to it.

84min - Neill is very much the senior figure on view. Seven of the players
on view are 21 or under.

83min - Stokes shows great determination to run at goal. It comes to
nothing, though.

81min - There is a fair chance of another goal this evening. Both teams are
pressing for a third.

79min - Hines goes down in the penalty area. He thought it was a foul but
the referee believed otherwise. Southampton are replacing Thomson with Stern
John.

76min - Behrami goes off to be replaced by Tony Stokes. Stokes will also
play wide right.

75min - McGoldrick shoots low but Stech is equal to it. Good handling.

73min - Hines is enjoying this pre-season. To read more about him, click
here.

71min - Junior Stanislas is coming on for Faubert and will play wide left.
The departing Frenchman gets a good response after another strong showing.
He had gone to the left in this second half and looked bright.

70min - Davenport with another good tackle. Then Widdowson rises well to
clear. It is a good work-out this, considering Southampton are ahead in
their pre-season schedule with the Championship beginning on Saturday week.

69min - Behrami is becoming more influential. He is combining well with
Noble and pushing forward at will.

67min - Ferdinand and McGoldrick are called over by the referee after a few
harsh words. Both teams are giving their all.

66min - Hines is loving this. He goes through the middle of two players and
they have no choice but to bring him down. The move began with a great Neill
tackle in his own area. From the free-kick, Davenport rises high but heads
straight at Bialkowski.

65min - GOAL! - Hines scores a stunner. Behrami made it with a tremendous
run. He picked out the youngster with his back to goal. He turned and in one
movement 12 yards out lashed it into the corner of the net.

63min - Jack Collison is on for the hard-working Parker.

61min - Neill has reverted to right-back with Behrami further forward.
Widdowson has gone over to the left. Hines is the lone striker and already
looks keen to make an impression.

60min - Ferdinand is replacing Upson. Widdowson comes on for Reid while
Cole, who appears in some discomfort, makes way for Zavon Hines.

58min - Well played Behrami. The last man denies Thomson on another quick
break.

57min - Behrami gets forward well and wins a corner. Joe Widdowson is also
being prepared. Southampton clear the danger.

56min - Southampton break quickly but are flagged offside. It looks like
Anton Ferdinand is coming on.

54min - A slip by Behrami on the halfway line allows Thomson a run on goal.
The summer signing felt he was impeded but the Saints No7 could not keep his
effort on target after Stech came out quickly.

53min - Cole's header is spectacularly saved from Faubert's precise cross.
This is better from West Ham United, summed up by Parker's fierce follow-up
shot which is deflected wide.

52min - Svensson heads over the crossbar. Behrami did well to put the
defender off as the cross came in.

51min - Behrami does well to clear a dangerous cross before Cole cuts out
the resulting corner.

50min - Holmes flashes one wide after Noble appeared to be fouled. The
referee waved play on.

49min - McGoldrick gets a half-chance but Stech is alert and deals with it
easily. On the counter, Reid gets a run at the full-back but is well
marshalled.

47min - West Ham United are kicking towards their own fans. There are more
than 3,000 packed into the seats behind the goal and they are making plenty
of noise. Faubert gives them something to cheer with a surging run but his
cross is cut out.

46min - Bellamy has made way for Mark Noble.

HALF-TIME

45min - It should be 2-2. Bellamy's acrobatic effort is just plucked away by
Bialkowski. Once again the move came about after bright work by Reid on the
left.

45min - GOAL! - Davenport scores with a great header from Faubert's second
corner. The defender towered above everyone in the box and there was no
doubt about it as soon as ball met head.

44min - Reid does well to earn a corner on the left wing. Bellamy started
the move and has been a lively performer this half. Faubert's corner just
eludes Upson and the ball runs out of play.

43min - Bellamy races away from the defence and leaves everyone in his wake.
He works a shooting opportunity but Bialkowski stuck a foot out to deny the
striker.

41min - Behrami is penalised for a foul on Holmes. Southampton will get a
chance to put more pressure on the visitors' goal when play resumes.

40min - A great tackle by Davenport denies Holmes. West Ham United still
look threatening and will fancy their chances of getting back into this.

38min - McGoldrick gets up well to head for goal. This time Stech saves
comfortably.

37min - GOAL! - McGoldrick makes it two with a well-taken chip over Stech
after a neat through-ball split the visiting defence. There was little the
keeper could do about that.

36min - There are 12,314 fans here but it is the home supporters who in good
voice at the moment.

35min - Bellamy looks for an instant response. He accelerates 40 yards
through midfield before slipping the ball out to Faubert on the right. The
winger makes good ground but his cross is too strong.

33min - GOAL! - A great cross from right-back Lloyd James misses out
Davenport and finds the unmarked McGoldrick. The No9 connects with a diving
header which is too strong for Stech. The Czech goalkeeper got a hand to the
ball but could not stop it crossing the line.

29min - Stech is definitely the busier of the two keepers. This time he
saves well from Jake Thomson.

27min - There are some crunching tackles going in from both sides. Behrami
does well to tidy up after Southampton go on the attack.

25min - A quick break by Bellamy on the right nearly sees Valon Behrami get
a chance on the edge of the six-yard box. The Swiss international did not
hesitate to get forward there.

24min - David McGoldrick caps a good period of home pressure with a great
run and shot that just whistles past Stech's right-hand post.

20min - Corner to Southampton. Davenport wins it again and the danger is
cleared.

19min - Upson does well to clear a Saints attack. Another quick counter sees
Reid involved again. This time his right-foot cross is cut out. Southampton
break again and once more Upson is there.

16min - Reid bamboozles Jake Thomson twice on the left wing before crossing
superbly across goal. Bellamy just cannot connect.

15min - More good link-up play from Cole and the supporting Parker before
the ball finds Bellamy. His cross from the left wing just eludes Faubert who
was coming in from the other wing. Cole has been impressive.

13min - Calum Davenport is doing well. He has not lost a header and he has
had about five crosses to deal with so far. His latest clearance sets Scott
Parker away but he just cannot get Cole free.

10min - Lucas Neill shows up on the edge of the area and is just about to
shoot before a last-ditch tackle denies the captain.

9min - We have a good game here. Cole does superbly to bring a long ball
down before running towards the penalty area. He then finds Bellamy with a
neat pass but his striker partner is closed down.

7min - Lee Holmes fires in from the left wing. A superb shot and a great
save by Stech. The tall keeper pushed it away well. On the counterattack,
Kyel Reid races clear of his marker after good skill but is then fouled.

5min - The game is a bit scrappy at the moment. Neither keeper has been
tested yet. For West Ham United, 18-year-old Marek Stech is getting a
deserved start in goal.

3min - Cole flicks on for Bellamy but the Wales captain is just caught
offside. Southampton have popular defender Michael Svensson back in their
ranks after a long injury absence.

2min - All you can hear is 'Come on you Irons'. It is tremendous travelling
support for Curbishley's side. Julien Faubert was the first to show with a
good cross from the right for Carlton Cole.

1min - Southampton get us under way.

KICK-OFF

7.40pm - Welcome to St Mary's for tonight's encounter which is being played
for the Ted Bates Trophy. A sizeable number of Hammers fans have made the
trip to the south coast for the match which will see Alan Curbishley's men
look to continue their fine summer form. It looks like we will have a
delayed start here.

Southampton: Bartosz Bialkowski, Lloyd James, Andrew Surman, Morgan
Schneiderlin, Michael Svensson, Chris Perry, Jake Thomson, Simon Gillett,
Adam Lallana, David McGoldrick, Lee Holmes
Subs: Tommy Forecast, Aarran Racine, Paul Wotton, Joseph Mills, Bradley
Wright-Phillips, Stern John, Grzegorz Rasiak, Nathan Dyer

West Ham United: Marek Stech, Valon Behrami, Calum Davenport, Matthew Upson,
Lucas Neill, Julien Faubert, Hayden Mullins, Scott Parker, Kyel Reid,
Carlton Cole, Craig Bellamy
Subs: Robert Green, Joe Widdowson, Anton Ferdinand, Jordan Spence, Jack
Collison, Mark Noble, Tony Stokes, Junior Stanislas, Zavon Hines

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Anxious wait on Cole - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd August 2008
By: Staff Writer

Carlton Cole is a new injury worry for Alan Curbishley just two weeks ahead
of the start of the 2008/09 Premier League campaign. The big striker was
immediately substituted after appearing to injure his ankle an hour into
last night's 2-2 draw at Southampton. Although there has been no official
word on Cole as of yet eye-witness reports suggest that the knock looked
fairly serious. If so, that could leave Alan Curbishley with just Craig
Bellamy and Dean Ashton - who sat out a second consecutive game with a
stomach problem last night - as his only two experienced fit strikers going
into the new season.
The club had claimed back in June that Curbishley could have all but one
player - the long-term injured Jonathan Spector - back in time for the new
season.
However the manager's injury list still numbers in double figures - with
some long-term injured personnel still far from full fitness. Curbishley -
who made his first major summer signing, Valon Beharami, last month - spoke
earlier in the week of extending his squad further, prior to the end of the
transfer window. If the news is bad for Cole, that search for fresh talent
will be just a little more urgent tomorrow.

M.I.A: current status

Lee Bowyer: back in full training; may feature for reserves this weekend

Matthew Etherington: one brief pre-season run-out; may play at Grays for
reserves this weekend

Dean Ashton: illness; hoping to play at Ipswich on Monday

Kieron Dyer: break; still hoping to make comeback at Ipswich next week

James Tomkins: recovering from knee injury picked up on England duty;
possibly Villarreal

Freddie Sears: took a knock (foot) against Cambridge; possibly Ipswich,
probably Villarreal

George McCartney: back in full training; should return prior to season
kick-off

Luis Boa Morte: light training; return date unknown

Nigel Quashie: unknown foot injury, out since last March; return date
unknown

Danny Gabbidon: still recovering from therapy; return date unknown

James Collins: recovering from cruciate; could be back by September

Jonathan Spector: torn labrum; hoping to return in January 2009

Carlton Cole: ankle; unknown

Freddie Ljungberg: given extended leave after Euro 08; current
whereabouts/return date unknown

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southampton 2 West Ham Utd 2 - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 1st August 2008
By: Staff Writer

The Hammers clawed their way back from two down to snatch a draw against
Championship outfit Southampton in their latest pre-season friendly at St
Mary's tonight. Strikes by Calum Davenport and Zavon Hines saved face for
United who had found themselves two goals behind after the home side notched
two goals inside three minutes. David McGoldrick opened the scoring for the
Saints after 32 minutes when nodding the ball past Marek Stech, starting in
place of Rob Green who was on the bench. The Saints striker then gave the
home side a two goal cushion just three minutes later when he left Stech
red-faced after a clever lob caught the young United keeper off-guard.
Having recovered from the early set-back the Hammers recovered well, and
opened their account two minutes from the break when Calum Davenport got on
the end of a Julien Faubert corner to register a rare set-piece goal. Alan
Curbishley responded to the half-time reversal by introducing Mark Noble in
place of Craig Bellamy, leaving Carlton Cole alone up front. However he was
forced into a rethink just 13 minutes into the second period when Cole was
forced off after taking a knock moments earlier. His substitution - albeit
thanks to misfortune rather than the tactical nous of Alan Curbishley -
proved to be inspired as replacement Zavon Hines levelled the scores less
than two minutes after entering the fray with a well-taken finish from
inside the box. As the game wore on a flurry of substitutions gave more
youngsters the chance to impress Curbishley; Junior Stanislas, Jack Collison
and Joe Widdowson all came on in place of more experienced pros (as did
Anton Ferdinand, another first teamer that started the night on the bench).
The game ended with a little controversy; in the final few minutes Mark
Noble was bundled over in the box by Surman. However his penalty plea was
ignored by match official Paul Taylor, possibly mindful of upsetting the
home crowd by awarding a controversial spot kick late on in a game that in
truth, neither side deserved to win. Next up for the first team is the trip
to Ipswich on Monday night; meanwhile the reserves can be seen in action at
Grays tomorrow afternoon.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Poortvliet: lightweight Hammers lucky - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd August 2008
By: Staff Writer

Southampton boss Jan Poortvliet has claimed his side were unlucky not to
beat West Ham - whilst questioning United's commitment. The Saints raced
into a 2-0 first half lead in tonight's friendly through a brace from David
McGoldrick before Calum Davenport and Zavon Hines saved face for the
Hammers.
Poortvliet confessed to being delighted at his team's performance - before
making what appeared to be a subtle dig at Alan Curbishley's team. "At
certain moments we made mistakes and we have to learn from that - but I
think in general the boys continued to try to play and I think we were a bit
unlucky not to get the victory," he told saintsfc.co.uk. "In the first 45
minutes we were outstanding. We scored two goals and we deserved it. We had
everything - good pressure, good football, shots on goal. "I think everybody
would have enjoyed the game - and now we look forward to taking on a
different, more physical challenge against Stoke on Tuesday night."
Meanwhile Curbishley - whose team tonight was missing the likes of Dean
Ashton, Kieron Dyer, George McCartney, Scott Parker and Freddie Ljungberg -
was pleased for the run-outs given to a number of youngsters in the squad
due to first-team squad player absentees. "It was a very open game," he told
whufc.com. "It was a decent work-out and a lot of the young lads have got
some great experience."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers held by Saints - SSN
Hines goal rescues draw for West Ham
Last updated: 1st August 2008

West Ham came from behind to draw 2-2 with Southampton in an entertaining
game at St Mary's. Alan Curbishley sent out a strong side with Valon Behrami
making his second appearance in the space of three days, but it was Saints
who started the brighter. David McGoldrick broke the deadlock in the 33rd
minute with a close-range finish and the 20-year-old striker then grabbed a
second four minutes later as he fired past goalkeeper Marek Stech. Calum
Davenport pulled one back for the Hammers on the stroke of half-time with a
header from Julien Faubert's corner. West Ham were frustrated at the start
of the second half before Zavon Hines stepped off the substitutes' bench to
score a stunning equaliser in the 75th minute.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SAINTS 2 WEST HAM 2 - This Is Hampshire

If Jan Poortvliet is correct and all Saints lack is a bit of belief, they
should have gone at least some way to putting that right in last night's
friendly against West Ham. The head coach said he would treat the match as
if it were the season opener against Cardiff a week today. In truth the
opposition meant that was hard. West Ham had top quality Premiership players
on show but ones who are a week behind Saints in their preparations for the
new season.
But this was more about what Saints could do rather than anything else and
there were some encouraging signs even though it is fair to say they go into
the first day of the Championship season not the finished article. The major
pre-season concern has been the lack of goals, with only one netted in three
first team friendlies up until last night. There still appeared to be a
major lack of confidence in the final third until Saints scored - and
suddenly you could visibly see the players start to produce the belief
Poortvliet has talked about as they began to think that perhaps they were
good enough to compete.
If there is still one problem it's that elusive final ball where Saints are
falling down. At the back despite a lack of pace and the occasional exposing
of the full backs they looked very solid, Michael Svensson marshalling the
defence well. Lloyd James at right back has got to be the star of
pre-season, having been excellent in every game he's played and very much
looking the part. He is not only defending well but gets forward and can
deliver a great cross. The holding midfield duo of Morgan Schneiderlin and
Simon Gillett look solid. Schneiderlin we know is a class act, the question
has been whether he needs a Gillett type or a more experienced head
alongside him but they are a good pair. When you get to the front players
there is plenty of promise but it is here that the belief is at times
lacking and that's where that final ball scenario creeps in. Adam Lallana
looks decent in the hole, Lee Holmes and Jake Thomson weren't equally so in
the attacking wide positions. When they do look confident they can deliver
but that belief must become a permanent feature rather than a fleeting one.
David McGoldrick has set himself up to start against Cardiff with two much
needed goals. His main problem has been trying to calm his enthusiasm to run
non-stop and realise his role in this set-up is to be the predator down the
middle. But the one thing the youngsters do have is a massive appetite to do
well and what's more to do well for each other - and that shines through.
Holmes had the first chance of the match and showed a decisive edge when he
opted to shoot on seven minutes but Marek Stech turned it wide at the near
post. James made two great defensive blocks before, on the second one, the
ball rebounded to Carlton Cole whose effort was saved by Bartosz Bialkowski.
But midway through the half Saints suddenly started to get going, keeping
the ball well, perhaps buoyed by the realisation that Poortvliet's words
that they can compete might have a basis. First McGoldrick and then Lallana
missed the target before Thomson cut inside and saw his curling shot plucked
out of the air by Stech.
Saints really hit top form shortly after, when they scored twice in four
minutes. The first came on 32 minutes, James with an inviting, curling,
tantalising cross to the far post and McGoldrick peeling off his man and
heading downwards to beat Stech. Saints doubled their lead on 36 minutes
when Holmes took advantage of a loose ball after what looked a West Ham free
kick that was never given and slid the ball into McGoldrick's path. Out of
the corner of his eye he saw Stech advancing and lifted the ball over the
advancing keeper, a terrific finish for 2-0. It could have been 3-0 when
Holmes crossed to McGoldrick on 38 minutes but this time his header was
directed at the keeper. At the other end Bialkowski did well to stop from
Craig Bellamy. Sadly, an old and unwelcome Saints trait returned towards the
end of half - uncertain defending of set-pieces. First Saints somehow
bundled the ball behind for a corner, but with little knowledge of how. Then
from the next effort from the other side they left Callum Davenport unmarked
and he duly made it 2-1. West Ham made second half changes and looked
hungrier and sharper for it. Saints threatened first with a McGoldrick chip
that never quite got going and then a Svensson header over the bar. Thomson
had a gilt edged chance on 54 minutes, through one-on-one after robbing
Valron Behrami of the ball, but his finish lacked that belief. It was past
the advancing keeper but tamely wide.
Bialkowski had already scrambled away a Carlton Cole header but was helpless
to prevent the Hammers levelling on 64 minutes. Behrami got to the right
by-line and cut the ball back to sub Zavon Hines who hit a brilliant low
first time volley into the bottom corner. The remainder of the match
continued to be played at a high tempo but there was no winner for either
side, the Hammers coming closest when Junior Stanislas tried his luck from
distance but Bialkwoski, at full stretch, turned the ball round the post.
But for Saints the important thing was not the result but to capture a bit
more of that much needed belief.

Teams Saints: Bialkowski, James, Svensson, Perry, Surman, Schneiderlin,
Gillett, Lallana, Thomson (John 80), Holmes, McGoldrick.

West Ham: Stech, Behrami (Stokes 76), Davenport, Upson (Ferdinand 60),
Neill, Faubert (Stanislas 72), Mullins, Parker (Collinson 62), Reid
(Widdowson 60), Cole (Hines 60), Bellamy (Noble 45).

Att: 12,314.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Poortvliet's Verdict - Saintsfc.co.uk
By James Morley

Saints head coach Jan Poortvliet was delighted with his new side's
performance as Saints held Premiership West Ham to an impressive 2-2 draw.
In fact, in a game in which Saints created a multitude of chances and looked
lively throughout, he would be forgiven for feeling slightly hard done by.
"In the first 45 minutes we were outstanding" Poortvliet said. "We made two
goals and we deserved it. We had everything - good pressure, good football,
shots on goal.
"At certain moments we made mistakes and we have to learn from that but I
think in general the boys played 90 minutes and continued to try to play and
play and I think we were a bit unlucky not to get the victory."
In the end the Ted Bates trophy was shared between the two team captains,
with Michael Svensson wearing the Saints armband for the full 90 minutes.
The night ultimately belonged to David McGoldrick though, and his
excellently taken brace was rightfully singled out by Poortvliet for further
praise. "You see what happens with David when he scores a goal! I think he
did a very good job before he scored but after it he was like an explosion
with so much confidence. He just got better and better. The second goal was
a great goal and he could have made it three. "I think everybody would have
enjoyed the game and now we look forward to taking on a different more
physical challenge against Stoke on Tuesday night."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Saints 2-2 West Ham -saintsfc.co.uk
By James Morley

With the start of the Coca-Cola Championship season now just a week away,
Saints fans were given their clearest sign yet of what this season may have
in store.

Saints were up against Premiership opposition in the shape of West Ham and
put in an extremely impressive first half performance in a match that was
both open and entertaining to watch.

With the Ted Bates trophy up for grabs, Saints were led onto the field by
Michael Svensson. The Swedish defender was making his first start at St.
Mary's in almost three years and strode out wearing the captain's armband
with obvious pride.

After a high-tempo opening spell, Saints first chance fell to Lee Holmes,
who tested the Hammers Czech 'keeper from close range with a well struck
effort.

Lloyd James then denied both Craig Bellamy and Lucas Neill in quick
succession to set the scene for an assured defensive performance alongside
Perry, Svensson and Surman.

Southampton's hard work eventually paid off just after the half hour mark,
when James turned provider and delivered an inch-perfect ball to the far
post, picking out McGoldrick in space. The 20-year old striker then stole
forward, lost his marker and headed past the 'keeper with a powerful
downwards glance.

Four minutes later McGoldrick made it two as he cleverly chipped Holmes'
through-ball over Marek Stech and sent the home fans crazy.

Goalkeeper Kelvin Davis was ruled out with a slight hamstring strain but
Bartosz Bialkowski ably deputised, making a number of fine saves whilst
releasing the ball quickly to set his teammates off on several quick
counter-attacking manoeuvres.

He was however helpless to prevent ex-Saint Callum Davenport's headed goal
from Faubert's corner on the stroke of half-time.

In the build-up to Friday night's game, Jan Poortvliet had already made it
clear that he was getting close to his deciding his starting line-up for the
big kick-off and from now on in it was time to get serious.

The Dutch coach was also keen to give as many of the starting XI as close to
90 minutes as possible, and he was true to his word making just one second
half substitution, as Stern John replaced Jake Thomson late on.

A number of West Ham switches disrupted the flow of the game after the
break, and substitute striker Zavon Hines equalised with a well taken shot
on the turn after 65 minutes, his fourth of pre-season.

That strike then set-up an entertaining finale, with both teams going for
goal in an attempt to seek out a winner.

With the scores all level and the end, both the spoils and the trophy were
shared, although if games were won on the number of chances created,
Poortvliet would have been by the far the happier coach.

The new Saints boss has often spoken of confidence being a key factor for
the coming campaign, and this game was undoubtedly a huge booster shot for
both players and fans alike.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - II 1st August 2008

Ace Ashton targets England recall - TeamTalk

For the first time in two years, West Ham striker Dean Ashton's ambition of
becoming an England regular is back within his grasp. Ashton broke his ankle
24 hours before making his proposed England debut in the summer of 2006 and
it has been a long and painful route back to full fitness and prime form. He
missed the whole of the 2006-07 season for West Ham - and even last year it
was not until the closing months of the campaign that he rediscovered his
true self. Five of Ashton's 11 goals last season came in the last eight
games. His reward was a recall to the England fold and a long-awaited debut
in the friendly against Trinidad and Tobago. Ashton savoured his brief taste
of international football and, heading into a new campaign, he is hungry for
more. Crucially for West Ham, Ashton will chase an international career at
Upton Park having signed a new five-year contract during the summer. "My
experience with England was worth only having a short summer off as it is
obviously one of my aims to be a regular with the international set-up," he
said. "My main aims are to stay fit, play more games than I did last season
and get plenty of goals. I want to be an England regular."
Ashton was hunting for form and full fitness in a West Ham side ravaged by
injuries to such a degree that manager Alan Curbishley was never able to
name his first-choice team. And the key absentees were all players who would
have helped Ashton flourish up front - Craig Bellamy, Kieron Dyer, Julien
Faubert, Bobby Zamora, Matthew Etherington, Scott Parker. Without those
attacking, creative talents, Curbishley often resorted to playing a direct
brand of football, with five in midfield, which suited neither the players
nor the fans. If Curbishley did start with two strikers, the powerful frames
of Ashton and Carlton Cole meant West Ham all too frequently succumbed to
the temptation of just hoofing the ball forwards. It is with the ball at his
feet that Ashton is at his most dangerous. He can score simple goals and
eye-catching goals, from inside and outside the box, and he has an acute eye
for a pass. West Ham fans only need to think back to the 2006 FA Cup final
against Liverpool, when Ashton produced a virtuoso performance despite being
only 75% fit. His defence-splitting pass set up West Ham's first goal and
Ashton scored the second, a tap-in which he still rates as his favourite
goal. When Ashton's England chance did eventually come the reviews were not
generous. He struggled to get into the game on the difficult pitch in Port
of Spain. But England manager Fabio Capello has no doubts about Ashton's
quality and guaranteed he will be involved with Three Lions again. "Yes, he
will be with us for the next games as long as he is fit. I don't understand
the criticism of Ashton," said Capello. "The England shirt brings a lot of
pressure. He is a good player."
Ashton has every chance of nailing down a regular place in the England
squad, an ambition that drove him through the tortuous sessions in the
swimming pool and in the physio room during those dark months when he was
recovering in Manchester and nowhere near his Hammers team-mates. Ashton
finished the season with five goals in his last eight games and continued
that run into pre-season, scoring three times on West Ham's trip to America.
Curbishley never had the chance to play Ashton alongside Carlos Tevez but he
is relishing the opportunity to build a regular strike pairing of Ashton and
Bellamy.
One of West Ham's best performances in a largely mediocre season last year
was the 3-0 away win at the Madejski Stadium, where Ashton, Bellamy and
Matthew Etherington combined to tear Reading's defence to shreds. And
Curbishley said: "I want to see certain combinations of players that I
haven't had a chance to see. I want to play Craig Bellamy with Dean Ashton.
"I know when I do get them all in an XI that we are a quick offensive side
and if we get everyone fit we are in a position to push on. We have a squad
that is strong enough to challenge for the top six."

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Marseille boss Gerets: West Ham and Wigan target Cisse is going nowhere -
Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 12:17 PM on 01st August 2008

Marseille coach Eric Gerets is confident Djibril Cisse will not leave the
club before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. The France
striker has made no secret of his desire to join an English side and there
were believed to be a few interested parties earlier this summer - including
West Ham and Wigan. But no bids have come in for Cisse and Gerets reckons
the striker will be with OM for the forthcoming season. In my head, he is
staying, except if there is an offer of X million euros,' said the Belgian.
'But this offer is not coming. For some time, I have been left with the idea
that he is going to stay at the club.' Cisse joined OM permanently from
Liverpool last summer.

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Curbs says money is not an issue By Harry Amber-Mitchell - UptonSparks.com
Posted on Friday 01 Aug 2008 13:03:00

Woohoo to the Curbs...well, you've got to start on a positive note, the man
has been the subject of some real criticism over the past few weeks. He's
the one that we all adore (sort of), the one that leaves us asking for more
(goals...points...interest, whatever), he's the
Cuuuuurrrrrrbishleeeeeeyyyyy.
Anyway, the man who goes to sleep having a little think about what will
happen to West Ham every day (except Saturdays, as rumour has it that's the
day he thinks about crazy golf before he goes to sleep. Especially that hole
with the windmill...he'll do it one day) has had a few words to say about
the current transfer situation: ''Contrary to some reports we are fully
committed to strengthening the playing staff." Yeah! West Ham have loads of
cash. ''There will not be a mass exodus and fans can be assured we are
working as hard as always to ensure high-calibre competition in all areas of
the team."
High calibre? Let's get in Messi and Ronaldo...nobody would expect that.
"Since the new group took over West Ham we have tried to push forward and I
don't see selling players as a way of pushing forward." This being the same
group that threw money at the problem, and all they got was a team full of
injuries and 10th place in the Prem? "I want to see certain combinations of
players that I haven't had a chance to see. I want to play Craig Bellamy
with Dean Ashton." When he says play, does he mean fight? Because that is
something I would want to watch. Especially if they were given footballs as
weapons. Plus, why hasn't he seen certain combinations of players? He does
know he's the manager and he can do what he wants, right? That means HE can
put players together...perhaps this death match thing might take off... "I
know when I do get them all in that we are a quick offensive side and if we
get everyone fit we are in a position to push on. We have a squad that is
strong enough to challenge for the top six."
Yeah, but so do Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham,
Evertone, Portsmouth, Aston Villa and Newcastle (OK, not Newcastle. They'll
never break the top six for at least a decade). Ah well, you gotta love the
Curbs, if nothing else for the fact he won his first game in charge against
Manchester United.

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Eidur sees Barca future - Setanta
by Joseph Caron Dawe, 01 August 2008

Barcelona forward Eidur Gudjohnsen is confident he still has a future at the
club after manager Josep Guardiola expressed his belief in the player.
Guardiola's appointment earlier this summer brought with it some uncertainty
over a series of players' futures, and the changes have been rung at Camp
Nou with the exits of the likes of Ronaldinho, Deco, and Giovani dos Santos
and a number of arrivals too. Gudjohnsen had been linked with West Ham,
Newcastle, Manchester City and Aston Villa as a return to England looked
increasingly likely, but it would appear Guardiola has a place in his plans
for the Icelandic forward. "The coach has proven that he is strong and hard.
He is always on top of the players and very attentive in training,"
Gudjohnsen told the club's official website. "He said he has faith in me. I
am ready to carry on at Barca. If nothing happens before August 31, I'll
still be here. "It's not easy, but I am a strong character and I only worry
about football matters. I just have to think about getting into the
strongest form possible." Gudjohnsen continued: "I will be fully ready on
August 12. We are only thinking about ourselves. We all know that we have a
final to play in the first leg of the Champions League.
"It is normal that nobody wants to be drawn against us because of the
quality that we have in our squad."

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Pinilla linked with West Ham - Setanta
by Richard Field, 01 August 2008

West Ham are reportedly chasing the services of Chilean striker Mauricio
Pinilla who was released by Hearts last month. The South American left
Hearts after two injury-plagued seasons with the SPL side. Pinilla – who has
led a nomadic existence in the world of football - is also attracting
interest in Portugal, Germany and Argentina according to Passball who
represent the player. The group would not deny reports that West Ham are
also in the hunt for the former Inter player. "There is an English side
that is very interested, but in addition there are three other teams that
are behind the [English] club, but we cannot give any names yet," commented
a Passball spokesman in El Mercurio

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Pablo Back for West Ham Friendly - TWTD
Friday 01 Aug 2008 16:26:42 by Phil

Striker Pablo Couñago will be back in the Town side which faces West Ham in
Monday's final senior pre-season friendly. The Spaniard picked up a foot
injury in the West Brom game and missed the trip to Brighton. Physio Matt
Byard told the club site: "It was more a precaution than anything else with
Pablo at Brighton. "He probably would have played if it was a league game,
but it wasn't worth the risk because if he took another knock on the foot
you could have been looking at two or three weeks off. "He is recovering
well and will be back in training before Monday. I would expect him to be
fine for the West Ham game." Former Blue Kieron Dyer has targeted a return
to match action against Town, while ex-loanee Mark Noble is likely to be in
the Hammers' line-up

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From Dos Santos and Ngog to Vela and Sears - 10 teenagers with the talent to
impress in the Premier League - Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 1:43 PM on 01st August 2008

GIOVANI DOS SANTOS (TOTTENHAM) Hugely talented and versatile Mexican
forward whose signing from Barcelona represents something of a coup for
Spurs. The 19-year-old - who is half-Brazilian - impressed at times for
Barca last season but left in search of a more regular first-team place.

THEO WALCOTT (ARSENAL) Still only 19, Walcott has not developed as Arsenal
boss Arsene Wenger would have hoped but the quick and skilful forward could
well feature more regularly since Alexander Hleb's departure to Barcelona.

CARLOS VELA (ARSENAL) Not a name familiar to many people in England, this
young Mexican striker was 'parked' in Spain until recently due to work
permit issues. However, he is back and ready to fight for a place in north
London and is likely to be eased into the side this season.

EMILIANO INSUA (LIVERPOOL) Argentinian left back who leads a crop of
exciting youngsters recruited under Rafael Benitez. Has already made the
occasional first-team appearance and is on the standby list for his
country's Olympic squad.

FRANCO DI SANTO (CHELSEA) Gangly Argentinian striker scored on his debut
against Guangzhou Pharmaceutical recently having managed seven goals in
eight reserve matches last season. Joined earlier this year from Chilean
outfit Audax Italiano.

FREDDIE SEARS (WEST HAM) The striker shot to prominence with a debut
winner against Blackburn in March, becoming an instant local hero. A genuine
talent, who appeared for England's Under-19s in this summer's European
Championships, Sears could be a regular starter for United by the end of the
season.

JACK COLLISON (WEST HAM) Tall midfielder who made his senior Wales debut
earlier this year to cap a rapid rise. After two appearances for the
Hammers, he will be keen to kick on under Alan Curbishley and encouraged by
the examples shown by the likes of Sears, Mark Noble and Anton Ferdinand.

DANIEL STURRIDGE (MANCHESTER CITY) The England Under-19 striker is among
several teenage stars in the City ranks alongside Ched Evans and Felipe
Caicedo. Sturridge, whose uncles are former players Dean and Simon, took his
few chances last season by scoring against Sheffield United and Derby.

DAVID NGOG (LIVERPOOL) Highly-rated teenage striker recently bought from
Paris St Germain. Ngog, who is the cousin of former Rangers and Newcastle
defender Jean-Alain Boumsong, struggled in an under-performing Paris St
Germain team last season but his pace could be well suited to the wealth of
midfield talent the Reds possess.

GARETH BALE (TOTTENHAM) Immensely talented Welsh left-back who did well
for Spurs until a serious foot injury in December curtailed his early
progress. However, he now faces competition for his place from Brazil
international Gilberto.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 1st August 2008

Upson buoyed by Behrami - WHUFC
The arrival of Valon Behrami will add to the West Ham United backline, according to Matthew Upson
01.08.2008

Matthew Upson is predicting Valon Behrami will prove a success with West Ham United as the team prepare for another stiff pre-season test against Southampton on Friday night.

The England defender got his first glimpse of the Swiss international right-back's pedigree during Tuesday night's 2-0 win at Peterborough United. Upson and Behrami could line up again in the back four along with Anton Ferdinand and Lucas Neill, with the latter possibly set to get another run-out at left-back as George McCartney gets closer to his own return. Upson himself is just back after missing the final four games of last season with his muscle injury but is coming along well.

The arrival of Behrami signals a bright future. "He was very good [against Peterborough]," Upson said. "Valon has come in from Italy. He has done a lot of tactical work in training and in the game so he knows how to keep a line and position himself. It is good that Lucas is able to push across to the left and do well. With George not involved at the moment, we may need to call upon him to do a job there so it is nice to get used to that pattern in the back four."

The 29-year-old had previously got 75 minutes last weekend in a 3-0 win for a West Ham United XI at Thurrock and, having completed his first match in midweek, said there is much more to come - hopefully against the Saints at St Mary's this evening. "I'm feeling good. It is nice to get 90 minutes under my belt. I feel like I got better as the game went on which is quite positive so I can take a lot out of it.

"I just need that real sharpness and speed of movement back in my legs which by playing games and intensive training sessions I will get. Hopefully I will be coming back into my own just before the Villarreal game right before the new season." That match against the Spanish giants is on Saturday week and it will mark just seven days until the big kick-of against Wigan Athletic.

"The season is coming up fast. Villarreal and Wigan will be two big games in their own right, two different games, but I just can't wait for the season to start. Overall we were relatively comfortable against Peterborough and if our final ball or finishing was a bit sharper we could have got a couple more. We are getting stronger."

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Day for fans at the Boleyn - WHUFC
Supporters took advantage of the sunshine to see their favourites during their hectic pre-season schedule
31.07.2008

Fans gathered at the Boleyn Ground for the annual free Open Training event on Thursday which saw the players put through their paces on a baking hot day.

Alan Curbishley's squad took to the pitch mid-morning and enjoyed a full work-out that took into account the midweek exertions at Peterborough United and the fact there is another first-team game at Southampton on Friday night. Those players that figured for Kevin Keen in a West Ham United XI match at Cambridge United on Wednesday night focused fully on post-game warm-down and conditioning.

After the training session, which included a practice game on half the pitch, a number of players took part in special programmes with the West Ham United Community department and a large contingent of local youngsters. These included Robert Green doing a goalkeeping masterclass, Mark Noble and Scott Parker working on midfield drills and Lucas Neill taking charge of a leadership session. Members of the Ladies' team were also involved while James Tomkins, on his way back after a knee knock on England duty, visited the Learning Zone centre.

In an impromptu session, players also signed autographs including those that had travelled over from early morning work at Chadwell Heath including George McCartney, Lee Bowyer, Matthew Etherington, Luis Boa Morte and Dean Ashton who are all hoping to be involved at some point over the weekend. The club has games against Grays Athletic on Saturday, under Kevin Keen's stewardship, and Ipswich Town on Monday to follow the tough test away to the Saints. Ashton, who has been battling a stomach bug, was the last to arrive but stayed for an extended period to sign autographs and meet fans.

While James Collins was another welcome sight as he steps up his training, Valon Behrami and Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson also got their first proper taste of the Boleyn Ground with the former among a group of players also featuring Matthew Upson and Julien Faubert that met with guests gathered inside the stadium. The players will next be back at the stadium on Saturday week for the Bobby Moore Cup game against Villarreal.

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Horse's head for Valon - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 1st August 2008
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's newest recruit has been accused of blackmail by Lazio president Claudio Lotiti. Valon Behrami joined the Hammers last week in a £5million switch from the Serie A side. However Lotiti claims that he would have retained the services of the Swiss international - but for a massive pay increase demand. "Behrami blackmailed me," Lotito said. "He cared when we had problems but then one day his lawyer demanded we pay him €3million a year or he would leave."
Lazio's inability to meet Behrami's demands led to the Kosovo-born winger moving to England last week - although the Serie A club could perhaps consider themselves fortunate to receive so much for a player entering the final year of his contract. Behrami made his United debut in the 2-0 win at Peterborough on Tuesday night. He was part of the squad at the Boleyn Ground who met fans yesterday in the club's first open training session of the season.

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Lazio accuse Behrami of blackmail - Setanta
by Chris Stanton, 31 July 2008

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has accused West Ham's new signing Valon Behrami of trying to extort money from the Rome giants. Behrami completed his £5 million switch to The Hammers last week but the transfer has left a sour taste in the mouth of his former employers. Lotito claims the Switzerland international demanded an increase in his wages if he was to remain at the Stadio Olimpico. "Behrami blackmailed me," Lotito told the Italian press. "Behrami cared when we had problems but then one day his lawyer demanded we pay him €3 million a year or he would leave." Like Behrami, Cristian Ledesma has also been in dispute with the Biancocelesti. Argentina international Ledesma has refused to sign a new contract with the club and could exploit Article 17 – the Fifa clause which allows players to buy out the remainder of their contract. "There is the case with Ledesma," added Lotito. "He had a great deal from Lazio but his lawyer made more requests. "We wanted more time but Ledesma was not able to wait."

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West Ham close on Shakhtar Donetsk goalkeeper Jans Lastuvka - Telegraph
West Ham manager Alan Curbishley is in the process of tying up a deal for former Fulham goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka.
By Steve Wilson
Last Updated: 9:51AM BST 01 Aug 2008

The Czech is viewed by Curbishley as the perfect back-up for current first choice goalkeeper Robert Green. Lastuvka, who played 12 times for Fulham during a season-long loan at the club in the last campaign, has already agreed personal terms with the club. All that remains is for the two clubs to finalise the last details of the move with West Ham confident he will be their player before the close of business today. It is even possible the 26-year-old could make his debut for the club in tonight's pre-season friendly with Southampton. "We are agreed," said Lastuvka. "If the medical turns out well for me, I move to West Ham. "I hope everything will turn out well. I am extremely tempted by the possibility of being coached by Ludek Miklosko."

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Fresh start for Zamora - SSN
Striker eager to grasp Fulham chance
Last updated: 1st August 2008

Bobby Zamora is hoping to put the frustration of his West Ham career behind him as he embarks on a new chapter with Fulham. The former Spurs and Brighton striker became an increasingly peripheral figure at Upton Park, making just 14 appearances last term and scoring only one goal. Zamora has been handed the chance to resurrect his top-flight career by Roy Hodgson after a summer move across London to Craven Cottage. And it is one he plans to grasp having spent much of the last campaign unable to force his way into Alan Curbishley's plans.
Zamora told The Independent: "It's a great opportunity to play first-team football in the Premier League and I grabbed it with both hands. "The last few seasons have been off-and-on and last year was pretty much a write-off for me." Cottagers boss Hodgson believes that Zamora's time out of the side in the East End could work in Fulham's favour. He added: "It's a new start for Bobby. "He needs to put last season totally behind him and we'll work with him on the player he was before last season. "I think we're getting a player that is more than motivated and anxious to show he's a top-class Premiership player."

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Curbishley aims for top six as Hammers look to bring more in - Northampton Chronicle

West Ham boss Alan Curbishley insists the Hammers are looking to strength their squad and 'there will not be a mass exodus'. Curbishley is the bookies favourite to be the first Premeir League manager to be sacked this season, yet he insists he is targeting a top-six finish. Injury-hit Hammers finished mid-table last season, but Curbishley is confident that a full-strength squad will be good enough to fire the Hammers into Europe. Dean Ashton has signed a new five-year contract and Curbishley is excited by the England striker linking up with the likes of Craig Bellamy, Kieron Dyer, Julien Faubert and Valon Behrami, a £5m summer signing from Lazio. He insisted: "Contrary to some reports we are fully committed to strengthening the playing staff. "There will not be a mass exodus and fans can be assured we are working as hard as always to ensure high-calibre competition in all areas of the team. "Since the new group took over West Ham we have tried to push forward and I don't see selling players as a way of pushing forward. "I want to see certain combinations of players that I haven't had a chance to see. I want to play Craig Bellamy with Dean Ashton. "I know when I do get them all in that we are a quick offensive side and if we get everyone fit we are in a position to push on. We have a squad that is strong enough to challenge for the top six."

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Lazio president Lotito lashes out at West Ham's Behrami
tribalfooball.com - July 31, 2008

Lazio president Claudio Lotito has hit out at new West Ham signing Valon Behrami. "Behrami blackmailed me," Lotito told the Italian press. "Behrami cared when we had problems but then one day his lawyer demanded we pay him €3 million a year or he would leave."

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Palermo insist Spurs, West Ham target Cavani stays
tribalfooball.com - July 31, 2008

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has dismissed interest for striker Edinson Cavani. The 21-year-old had been linked with a move to the English Premier League this summer with Tottenham Hotspur or West Ham, but Zamparini has dismissed any possible move. "This is the end of the matter," he said. "Cavani will remain at the club and his future has never been put into question."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - II 31st July 2008

Bellamy 'feeling good' - WHUFC
A hugely successful run of summer form has left Craig Bellamy eager for the
season to get started
31.07.2008

Craig Bellamy will head to Southampton on a high this Friday after a strong
work-out against Peterborough United in midweek that saw him score another
two goals.

The Welsh international striker showed he is raring to go for West Ham
United by pouncing twice in the first half at London Road to settle an
entertaining contest. As the countdown begins to the new season, Bellamy is
looking to get as much play under his belt as possible so he can be
razor-sharp for the forthcoming campaign.

"We have been working hard, we arrived back from the tour at the weekend and
then began preparation for Tuesday's game straight away. To be honest, it
was good to get out there [against Peterborough] because you tend to feel a
bit leggy after a lot of travelling, so you need to get out there and run it
all off. There was a bit of stiffness near the end of the match but that is
to be expected and I came off, but I am fine and feeling good."

Bellamy scored his first of the evening at Peterborough after just three
minutes - meeting Scott Parker's pass before racing away from the home
defence and slotting the ball into the back of the net. He followed that
with a delightful goal just before half-time. Latching on to Lucas Neill's
long pass, Bellamy rounded the keeper and chipped the ball over his head to
make it 2-0. After scoring a brace up at Hampton and Richmond earlier this
month and taking part in the successful tour for the first-team in North
America, Bellamy is certainly enjoying life.

He said: "Of course you want to get off to a good start, so it's nice that I
have been able to get a few goals so far in pre-season and after being out
last year, to be back playing. You just want to get off the mark, whatever
the game is. I just want to get going now."

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Keeper deal confirmed - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 31st July 2008
By: Staff Writer

Reports emanating from the Czech Republic this morning say that Jan Lastuvka
will be joining West Ham on loan for the season. The 26-year-old
international told idnes.cz that a deal had been finally been struck between
United and his current club, Shaktar Donetsk after complications had held up
the deal last week. The goalkeeper is set to fly into London on Friday to
undergo a medical before rubber-stamping his return to the Premier League.
"An agreement was reached; if there is no problem with the medical, I will
join West Ham," said Lastuvka, who admitted he was delighted to have the
opportunity to work with Ludo Miklosko, West Ham United's former Czech
international goalkeeper coach. "I hope everything will be fine," added
Lastuvka. "I am eager for the experience to train under Ludek Miklosko. The
Premier League is the best league in the world, so I would like to fight for
a chance."

Lastuvka - whose previous spell in the Premier League was on loan at Fulham
- will play understudy to United number one Robert Green. Green's former
number two, Richard Wright, left the club in order to join Championship
outfit Ipswich Town earlier this month. Lastuvka, a former student of
philosophy made his name at Banik Ostrava in the Czech Republic before
sealing a move to Shaktar Donetsk in 2004. In 2006 he was sent on a
season-long loan to Fulham where he suffered a torrid time; Fulham
eventually sent him back to Shaktar without taking up the option to buy
clause. Last season Lastuvka - who played at the Boleyn Ground in January
2007 whilst at Fulham - was once again sent on loan, this time to VfL Bochum
of the Bundesliga. However his time with Die Unabsteigbaren was equally
unremarkable and the Germans failed to meet Shaktar's £2million asking
price.

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Keeper close to Hammers move - SSN
Czech custodian set for Hammers medical
By Vasek Kadlec Last updated: 31st July 2008

Former Fulham goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka is on the verge of a move to West Ham.
The 26-year-old claims he has agreed personal terms with West Ham to join
the club from Shakhtar Donetsk and that he will make the move to Upton Park
subject to a successful medical. West Ham have set up a loan deal for
Lastuvka as they look to bring in cover for Robert Green and the Czech
keeper is relishing the prospect of returning to the Premier League. "We are
agreed. If the medical turns out well for me, I move to West Ham," Lastuvka
told CTK. "I hope everything will turn out well. I am extremely tempted by
the possibility of being coached by Ludek Miklosko. "The English Premier
League is the best league in Europe, I would like to fight for the chance."

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I won't be the first for the chop, insists Alan Curbishley - The Mirror
31/07/2008

Alan Curbishley insists all bets are off after being made favourite to
become the first Premier League boss to get the bullet. The West Ham manager
is 4-1 to be the first victim of the new season after last year's mediocre
showing. But Curbishley claims leading an injury-ravaged squad to 10th place
was a massive result. Curbs said: "I'm not a gambling man so I won't take
too much notice of it. "People need to have a reality check. Finishing 10th
was a big achievement."

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Hammers boss unfazed by bookies' odds - Guardian Series
12:16pm Thursday 31st July 2008

ALAN CURBISHLEY insists he is not fazed by the latest bookies' odds which
make him favourite to be the first manager given the boot this season. The
West Ham boss has come under fire for his safety-first style of play and has
been given odds of 5/1 to win the Premier League's annual sack race.
Newcastle's Kevin Keegan and Bolton's Gary Megson are joint
second-favourites at 7/1. Many of Curbishley's first-team regulars were
sidelined through injury for much of last year, although he still managed to
guide the Irons to tenth place. That achievement has failed to silent the
critics or influence the bookmakers, but the manager refuses to allow such
talk to bother him. "I've had 15 years when I've been the outsider so I've
just got to get on with it," he said. "It's life, all part and parcel of
football. I'm not a gambling man so i didnt pay too much attention to it. "I
dont know if im under pressure. I've been around long enough - I've been a
manager for nearly 20 years now - and for most of my career I've been a rank
outsider so makes a change to be up the other end of it," he joked.

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Hammers midfielder eyes England place - Guardian Series
11:59am Thursday 31st July 2008

WEST Ham United midfielder Mark Noble has set his sights on earning a place
in Fabio Capello's senior England squad. The 21-year-old has become a
regular member of the Irons first-team and England Under-21 squad over the
past 18 months. Now, the Canning Town-born player believes he is ready to
take the next step and test himself at the very highest level. "My main aim
this season is to break into the England set up, that's what I want and
hopefully I can achieve that," said Noble. "I want to establish myself but
I'm still learning and still growing and hopefully I can really push on this
season." Noble has become a fans' favourite at Upton Park since forcing his
way into Alan Curbishley's team at the tail end of the 2006/07 season. The
youngster's arrival coincided with the Hammers' great escape from relegation
on the final day, with Noble's own form and on-field relationship with
Carlos Tevez widely accepted as a major reason for the club's survival in
the Premier League. Last term, Noble was hit with a series of niggling
injuries and was forced to undergo hernia surgery. But he is now back to
full fitness and looking forward to forming a solid central midfield
partnership with England international Scott Parker. While the start of the
new Premier League season is something Noble is looking forward to, the
confident young playmaker has one date firmly etched in his mind. England's
Under-21s take on Portugal in a European Championship qualifier at the new
Wembley Stadium on Friday, September 5, and the West Ham man is desperate to
take part. "We've got a qualifier coming up against Portugal which is a big
game and it's at Wembley which is even better," he added. "I've not played
at the new stadium although I played at the old one for my district and my
school but this will be a whole new experience and I really can't wait for
it."

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What has Curbs got up his sleeve?? - BubblesInTheAir.com
Thursday 31 Jul 2008 11:02:14 by Tony Watson

Hammers boss Alan Curbishley has told the West Ham fans to judge his
transfer dealings on the last day of August. Curbs has been under fire from
many fans who have been frustrated with the clubs lack of activity this
summer in the transfer market. The club have made three signings however,
two of those have been youngsters who are unlikely to feature in the first
team set up for some time and the other was Valon Behrami from Lazio for £5
million - The promising swiss utlity man made his debut against Peterborough
on Tuesday. Curbishley has also shrugged off being the bookies favourite to
get the boot first next season, the Hammers boss is just ahead of Bolton's
Gary Megson at 4/1. Curbs told The Sun "I'm not bothered, I'm not a gambling
man. I had 15 years at Charlton as outsider to get the sack. "Other people
like to stir things up and make it worse."
Meanwhile, Reports are gathering pace around Upton Park regarding Freddy
Ljungberg's future at the Club - The swedish winger is said to have been on
Lazio's shopping list - with the arrival of Behrami that move could well be
on the cards - it wouldn't do the wage bill any harm either.

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HAMMERS TALK: Irons join City in hunt for Morocco defender - Guardian Series
10:12am Thursday 31st July 2008

WEST HAM are slugging it out with Manchester City for the signature of Nancy
full-back Michael Chretien, according to reports. The Daily Mail claims that
Alan Curbishley is keen on Chretien, but he will face stiff competition for
the Moroccan from City boss Mark Hughes. The 24-year-old was expected to
join Sevilla or Real Betis, but is interested in a move to the Premier
League. He said: "My agent is in discussions with Betis, but I am aware of
an English club keen to acquire me. "I don't want to be at Nancy next
season, as I've done enough there. I want to test myself in a top European
league." Chretien has been with French outfit Nancy since 2002, making 174
appearances, while he has also been capped by his country.

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Ferdinand fully focused for the Hammers - Guardian Series
9:30am Thursday 31st July 2008

ANTON FERDINAND is looking forward to finally putting a summer of
speculation surrounding his future behind him and getting down to what he
does best with West Ham. The defender has continually been linked with a
move away from Upton Park, with Aston Villa, Spurs, Sunderland and Newcastle
all believed to be vying for his signature. He was even rumoured to have
rejected the Magpies after the Hammers reportedly accepted a £6million bid.
However, Ferdinand said he has no intention of quitting Upton Park and
insists that the speculation will not stand in his way of himn getting in
the best possible shape for West Ham and the new season ahead. "I don't
think about it that kind of thing at all," said the 23-year-old. "If that
was the case then I'm not being professional. "I'm sure if you asked the
fans about me when they see me playing, I don't look like I'm thinking about
other things, other than doing well for West Ham. "I'm under contract and I
love playing for the club. Now I'm just concentrating on getting fit for and
looking forward to the start of the season."
Ferdinand got his fourth consecutive pre-season run-out under his belt in
Tuesday night's 2-0 win over Peterborough United. And his preparations were
given a real test against the League One club's prolific frontman Aaron
McLean. "He is a livewire and a great player, and it was a joy to play
against him," Ferdinand said of McLean. "It was a good game all round.
That's why the gaffer took on it on because they're a good team who pass it
well, which they showed last season to take them into League One."
A classy first-half brace of goals from Craig Bellamy - his second
pre-season double - proved to be the difference between the sides. And,
after a debut season wrecked by an ongoing abdominal injury last term - he
managed just seven starts - Ferdinand, much like boss Alan Curbishley, is
hoping the pacy frontman can start to string a run of games together. "We
need Craig Bellamy to stay fit because he is looking really sharp and took
his goals well," said Ferdinand. "But Carlton Cole also looked very good and
they played well together. "Of course there is also Dean Ashton, who missed
the game because of illness, so from our point of view, the front line is
looking really strong going into the new season."

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Curbs closes in on keeper - Setanta
by Jo Carter, 31 July 2008

West Ham are close to signing former Fulham keeper Jan Lastuvka from
Shakhtar Donetsk. The 26-year-old, who spent the 2006/07 season on loan at
Craven Cottage, would provide back-up to Robert Green. The Hammers have been
chasing the Shakhtar Donetsk keeper for a while and had hoped to sign
Lastuvka a fortnight ago, but the two clubs were unable to agree on a price.
Lastuvka has now agreed personal terms and looks set for a move to East
London. He could make his Hammers debut in Friday's friendly at Southampton
and is relishing a return to England. "The offer from West Ham is there,"
Lastuvka told CTK. "The club wants me and going back to the English league
is definitely interesting and alluring."

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'New' keeper seems hardly worth having By Steve Turner - UptonSparks.com
Posted on Thursday 31 Jul 2008 13:52:00

West Ham's newest 'signing' Jan Lastuvka (we're loathe to say he's actually
joined, as apparently he's now having a medical and if they find something,
like an alien living in his stomach, he won't be coming) will be a total
understudy to Robert Green.

Now, this isn't a bashing of the player: in fact, I've only ever seen him
play briefly for Fulham (and that didn't really inspire any great confidence
in me then, and I didn't care what happened), but he seems to be a bit of an
'unwanted child'.

This is a player who went to Fulham, the perennial under- or over-achievers
(depending on who you believe or speak to) and couldn't get in the team.

In fact, he got sent home from the loan, back to parent club Shaktar
Donetsk, who signed him back in 2004.

But apparently they just didn't want him, perhaps looking on him like an
unimportant step-child, and loaned him out once more to Bundesliga outfit
VfL Bochum.

Nein!

Guess what: they didn't want him either, and said a big 'Nein!' to the £2
million asking price. (They probably also threw sausages or some other
stereotype at Donetsk as well).

So now he look all set to join the Hammers on loan. Whoop-eee.

If a player gets loaned out three seasons in a row...something isn't quite
right.

"I hope everything will be fine," added Lastuvka. "I am eager for the
experience to train under [goalkeeping coach] Ludek Miklosko. The Premier
League is the best league in the world, so I would like to fight for a
chance."

Well...everyone deserves a chance. But forgive me for not breaking out the
champagne and caviar and ordering a couple of masseuses over this one.

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