Daily WHUFC News - 11th January 2010

Cole getting closer
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola is hopeful of having Carlton Cole back to lead the line
before the end of the month
10.01.2010

Gianfranco Zola is looking forward to welcoming back Carlton Cole with the
England striker's return from injury said to be going well. The 26-year-old
has been out of action since injuring his knee in the 5-3 victory over
Burnley on 28 November, but Zola revealed the club's top-scorer could be
back with the squad later this month. He has been stepping up his recovery
programme, and has been out on the Chadwell Heath pitches in recent days.
"His recovery is vital," said Zola, with Guillermo Franco suffering a muscle
injury in training that looks set to keep him out for the next couple of
matches. "He is such an important player, not only in terms of goals and
what he gives to the team, but it would be a big boost for the others. I
look forward to seeing him playing soon with us." "They're talking about
towards the end of the month but we'll see. We're not putting pressure on
him. We want him, when he comes back, to be fit for the whole season and for
the World Cup, hopefully."

Another matter occupying Zola's thoughts is possible arrivals during the
January transfer window. However, the manager had been keen to stress his
sole focus this week was securing victory over Wolves until the match was
called off due to health and safety concerns. "We are looking for something
but I don't want to talk too much about it. We'll see what happens."

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Franco out until February
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 10th January 2010
By: Staff Writer

Mexican international Guillermo Franco will be sidelined for around three to
four weeks after sustaining a muscle injury. The 33-year-old striker, who
has been deputising for the injured Carlton Cole in recent weeks missed last
weekend's FA Cup clash with Arsenal through suspension but had hoped to be
back for today's aborted Premier League clash with Wolves. Rumours
suggesting that Franco had broken a leg in training spread like wildfire
earlier in the week. But whilst they have proven to be wide of the mark,
this latest injury leaves Gianfranco Zola with a major headache ahead of
West Ham's next outing against Aston Villa. With Franco like to be out until
early February and Carlton Cole unlikely to be available until the following
fixture at Portsmouth, Zola will have the option of going with young guns
Frank Nouble or Freddie Sears, recently returned from a shortened loan spell
at Crystal Palace, when they travel to Villa Park. Franco, who would have
been unavailable for today's game with Wolves - meaning that manager
Gianfranco Zola would have gone into the match with no recognised first team
striker, as was the case for the 2-1 defeat against Arsenal - has been in
fine form of late, and has scored three times thus far this season.

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No Behrami offers
Swiss star happy with Hammers
Last updated: 10th January 2010
SSN

There are no offers for Valon Behrami to leave West Ham United, his agent
has confirmed. Renewed speculation has claimed that a host of clubs are
ready to try and prise the Swiss international from Upton Park. Reports
claimed that Manchester United were ready to bid £10million for the
midfielder. Arsenal, Manchester City and Juventus are also said to be keen -
but this has now been denied. Alessandro Beltrami has told Sky Sports News
that no offers are on the table for the former Lazio man and he is more than
happy to stay with West Ham.

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Zola plans striker swoop
Franco injury leaves Hammers short of options
Last updated: 10th January 2010
SSN

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is poised to dip into the transfer market this
month after Guillermo Franco's injury blow. Franco, 33, is facing the rest
of the month on the sidelines after a suffering a muscular complaint in
training, leaving Zola short of options. Carlton Cole is not expected back
until later in January following his absence with a knee problem, with the
Hammers keen to bring in reinforcements. Nuno Gomes, Eidur Gudjohnsen, Aston
Villa's former Hammers striker Marlon Harewood and Stoke targetman James
Beattie have all been suggested as possible targets to help Zola's bid to
avoid relegation this season. The better news for the Italian is players
returning from injury, with Scott Parker, Mark Noble, Jack Collison and
Danny Gabbidon among those in the frame for next weekend's trip to Aston
Villa. The club could also make an announcement this week on how talks are
progressing over a takeover. Icelandic bank Straumur, the club's owners,
continue negotiations over a potential sale. David Gold and David Sullivan
are said to be in the race along with Malaysian entrepreneur Tony Fernandes
and the InterMarket Group.

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West Ham suitors meet lending banks in ownership talks today
Club's five main lenders to sound out investors
New owners could be in place next week
Stuart James guardian.co.uk, Monday 11 January 2010

West Ham United may have new owners as soon as next week, with the club keen
to capitalise on the January transfer window. The ownership saga at West Ham
United is expected to become clearer after today, when representatives of
the consortium of five banks that have loaned money to the Premier League
club meet prospective buyers to establish their credentials.

David Sullivan and David Gold, the former Birmingham City owners, and
associates of the Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes are due to hold talks
with Rothschild, the investment bank that was appointed in October to sound
out potential investors, together with representatives from Glitnir,
Standard Bank, Lloyds, Royal Bank of Scotland and Straumur, West Ham's five
main lenders.

Although the Canary Wharf-based Intermarket Group and an unnamed North
American have also been strongly linked with a takeover approach, there is
no indication that either will be present today, when the interested parties
will make presentations and outline their plans to support their submitted
bids.

It is understood that Fernandes, who is a lifelong West Ham supporter, will
be absent because he is not due in England until tomorrow, although his
representatives will hold talks on his behalf this morning. Sullivan and
Gold are both expected to meet the banks and are known to favour an
agreement that would see them buy a 50%stake in the club, effectively
becoming strategic partners but, crucially, having ultimate control when it
comes to decision-making.

The involvement of the banks in the takeover process is crucial. Through the
club's banking covenants they have the power of veto of any change of
ownership, highlighting the significance of today's events. Should either or
both of the parties be approved, the next stage of the process is likely to
involve further talks with Straumur, in their capacity as the largest
shareholder in CB Holdings, the company set up by the creditors of West
Ham's former owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson.

CB holdings have said there is no pressure to sell, although West Ham
supporters might argue otherwise. The club is languishing in the lower
reaches of the Premier League, only above the relegation zone because of a
superior goal difference, and face the prospect of losing rather than
signing star players under the current regime. Scott Parker and Matthew
Upson are both expected to attract bids from rival Premier League clubs this
month.

Should either Fernandes or Sullivan and Gold be successful, it is possible
they could be in place as early as next week, with the speed at which things
can happen regarded as crucial because of the January transfer window. For
that to happen, however, Straumur would almost certainly need to reduce
their asking price, with the Icelandic investment bank believed to value the
club at around £100m.

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Rival bidders look to seal £100m West Ham deal
Monday, 11 January 2010
BelfastTelegraph.co.uk

West Ham's Icelandic owners look set to sell the club by the end of the
month, with at least two rival bidders "at an advanced stage of the due
diligence process". A source familiar with the situation added that
"negotiations are ongoing with more than one group" but said "things could
be wrapped up within seven to 10 days". One bidding group comprises the
former Birmingham City owners, David Sullivan and David Gold. A second bid
is from a London finance company, Intermarket. It has also been suggested in
banking circles that a third bid could yet emerge from Tony Fernandes, the
Malaysian businessman behind Air Asia, former sponsors of Manchester United.
Fernandes himself said last month that no bid is planned. West Ham's
chairman, Andrew Bernhardt, has consistently claimed that the company which
owns the Hammers, CB Holding, does not need to sell, and there is a
sustainable business plan if it doesn't sell. Other sources say the dire
financial situation could force the sales of players this month to balance
the books unless the club is sold or fresh capital is otherwise injected. It
would make sense for CB Holding to get out now for business reasons if they
think there is any possibility of the club being relegated. It is obvious
the firm has no capital to invest, or no will to invest any, and if West Ham
go down, an asset worth millions in the Premier League would become a
liability in danger of administration, little better than a write-off.
Sullivan and Gold want 50 per cent of West Ham – and a guarantee of
effective control – in exchange for around £50m investment, much of which
they stipulate should be spent on buying some players and the most urgent
football debts. They have increased an earlier offer.
CB Holding is owned by a bank, Straumur, which is owed a chunk of the club's
£40m bank debts. On top of that, West Ham have £30m of other liabilities
including £19m which is still owed to Sheffield United over the Carlos Tevez
affair. It is understood that Intermarket have tabled an offer of around
£100m for the whole club, but the structure of their deal is not known.
"There will be a deal with someone within a month," a source said. Gold and
Sullivan sold Birmingham last year for £82m, having bought it 16 years ago
for £1 and transformed its fortunes; they laid the foundation for Blues'
current progress. If the pair fail with their West Ham bid, they will target
Charlton then Crystal Palace, in that order.

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#7 Take a Leaf Out of Greenwood's Book!
West Ham Till I Die

There was a story in the sports press yeterday that Manchester Utd were
weighing up a potential £10m bid for Valon Behrami. Personally I do not
think that it is likely, Man Utd very sensibly avoid doing major business in
January. If there is any genuine interest it will probably be pursued in
the summer. Regardless, the club should not even consider a bid for Behrami
from Manchester Utd or any other suitors, he is far too important a player
to lose.

Thankfully, Behrami's agent has now publicly confirmed that there are no
concrete enquiries and that the player is very happy to stay with West Ham!
Hopefully, if the club do get new owners, then one of their priorities will
be to ensure that Behrami is offered an attractive contract extension. If
they are ambitious then they need to do everything possible to retain a
class act like Behrami.

The news item did, however, make me recall a story that I once read about
the way that Ron Greenwood famously dealt with an unwanted transfer approach
from Manchester Utd. In 1967, Sir Matt Busby allegedly sent Greenwood a
written offer of £200,000 for Geoff Hurst. That was a massive sum in those
days, especially when you consider that it was not until 1970, some three
years later, that West Ham accepted a record £200,000 record bid for Martin
Peters!

Anyways, Greenwood's reply was short, emphatic and left no room for further
manoeuvre. He scribbled a one word reply, 'no,' and sent it back to Sir
Matt!

We now live in very different times I know, but the story always makes me
smile!

SJ. Chandos.

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West Ham United manager Gianfranco Zola rues loss of striker Guillermo
Franco
Daily Mail
By Daniel King, Mail on Sunday Sports News Correspondent Last updated at
1:24 AM on 11th January 2010

Gianfranco Zola's bid to guide West Ham clear of the relegation places
suffered a major blow when one of his key strikers, Guillermo Franco, was
injured in training. Zola could have money to spend this month after all if
one or more of the three remaining bidders for the Premier League club prove
this week they have the money to complete a takeover. And the priority must
be a striker after Mexican international Franco broke down to leave Zola
chronically short of firepower. West Ham have seen Dean Ashton retire
through injury and leading scorer Carlton Cole and Luis Boa Morte sidelined
for months with knee injuries. Kieron Dyer is also out with a hamstring
injury. At least the weather has given them another week off before next
Sunday's trip to Aston Villa and Zola will be confident that Scott Parker,
Herita Ilunga, Jack Collison and Mark Noble will all be available after
shaking off knocks. Well-placed sources believe a takeover will move a
significant step closer this week. American-backed group Intermarket are
favourites but should they not have the funds, the most likely outcome would
be former Birmingham owners David Gold and David Sullivan taking control.

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GIANFRANCO ZOLA ROLLS OUT WELCOME FOR MATTEO CONTINI
Daily Star
10th January 2010 By Steve Morgan

WEST Ham boss Gianfranco Zola is planning a loan move for Napoli defender
Matteo Contini. Zola wants the defensive hardman to shore up his back-line
and is keen on taking him on a six-month deal. Contini, 29, has been a
regular in Napoli's defence for the past two seasons but has fallen out of
favour this term. He previously spent three years at Parma where he made 82
appearances in Serie A. Zola is also interested in keeper Fernando Rubinho,
27, who has been made available by Palermo after failing to make an
impression since his summer arrival from Genoa. But the Hammers could face
competition from Fulham for Rubinho, who represented Brazil in the 2001
World Youth Championship. Meanwhile, Zola last night admitted that the
Hammers' future now lies in the lap of the gods – and he should have a good
idea what they've decided by the end of this month. The big freeze, must-win
games against relegation rivals and a potential takeover of the club could
all have a hand in their fate. Zola said: "I remember it snowing before but
not as much as this and of course it has affected us. "We can't prepare the
games or train properly because we have problems with the training ground.
"The takeover could be vital for our future but it is something I can do
nothing about. "But complaining about the situation won't help. We just need
to get on with things."

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FERGUSON IS BEHRAMI HUNTER
Daily Star
10th January 2010 By Steve Millar

MANCHESTER United have jumped ahead of the elite pack chasing West Ham's
Switzerland winger Valon Behrami. And although United boss Sir Alex Ferguson
is reluctant to splash out in the transfer window, he's likely to make an
exception in Behrami's case. Behrami, who joined the Hammers 18 months ago
from Lazio for £5million, can give Ferguson the drive in midfield he's been
desperate to find for so much of the season. And the added bonus is that
Behrami, 24 can also play right-back as he's proved in the past for the
Hammers. It will take a £10m-plus cheque to tempt hard-up West Ham to part
with one of their most talented players. Arsenal and Juventus, who have
followed the player since his move from Serie A, are also interested.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 10th January 2010

Wolves match postponed
WHUFC.com
The Barclays Premier League match with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday
afternoon is off
09.01.2010

West Ham United can confirm that Sunday afternoon's Barclays Premier League
fixture with Wolverhampton Wanderers has been postponed.

Adverse weather conditions have led to health and safety concerns in the
area surrounding the Boleyn Ground, with the well-being of supporters the
main priority. The decision was taken on Saturday morning after the Premier
League consulted with local authorities and the police.

whufc.com will have full information of the new date for the fixture as soon
as confirmed. All tickets sold will remain valid for the rearranged match
while anyone requiring a refund, once the details are known, should contact
the ticket office.

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West Ham's Icelandic connection drawing to a close
After an extraordinary three years stability may be about to return to the
troubled club.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Jason Burt
Published: 9:20PM GMT 09 Jan 2010

End in sight for West Ham's Icelandic connection Photo: PA "Champions
League? No question about that. Give me at least five years and from then
on. No question," – Eggert Magnusson, chairman of West Ham United, March 29,
2007.

Executives at West Ham knew there was something wrong when they tried to
sign Adriano from Inter Milan. It was August 2007 and they travelled to
Italy, met with Inter and were presented with a copy of the Brazilian's
contract which showed he earned the equivalent of £110,000 a week. The West
Ham representatives thanked Inter for their time – and called chairman
Eggert Magnusson to inform him that the striker wouldn't countenance a pay
cut and his contract was therefore prohibitive. Time to go home. "Give me
two hours," Magnusson said. He called back and said he had consulted with
owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson. "Go for it," Magnusson pronounced. Everyone
was astounded; not least Inter. Could West Ham really afford such wages? Was
Adriano worth it? Was Gudmundsson prepared to pay such a salary plus a £15
million transfer fee? What a coup. In the end, Adriano decided he did not
want to go for the move and the deal, talks over which were confirmed on the
club's website just as manager Alan Curbishley went on television to claim
it was pure speculation, inevitably collapsed.

It was an episode which summed up the precipice over which West Ham were
unwittingly staring – and have subsequently fought tooth and nail to keep
themselves from spiralling down into.

Three parties are battling for control of the club – the Malaysian
entrepreneur Tony Fernandes, the former Birmingham City co-owner David
Sullivan and, less credibly, a company called Intermarket – and a resolution
is imminent.

What has been remarkable is the fact that West Ham, following the meltdown
of the Icelandic economy and the collapse of Gudmundsson's business empire,
have managed to avoid administration, have traded with relative stability
and have survived – and in some, counter-intuitive, ways thrived – through a
series of dramas and crises not all of their own making: from the Carlos
Tévez saga to the premature retirement of Dean Ashton. It has been an
extraordinary three years.

The alarm bells started ringing that summer. There was something worrying
during a transfer window in which West Ham had splashed out £7.5 million for
Craig Bellamy, £6 million for Kieron Dyer and £7 million for Scott Parker,
among others, and put them all on contracts worth more than £50,000 a week
and capped it by placing Freddie Ljungberg, who cost £3 million and was the
ultimate vanity purchase, on a deal worth £85,000 a week.

In one week alone, Everton fielded inquiries for Mikel Arteta, Andy Johnson
and Tim Cahill – which prompted their chairman, Bill Kenwright, to politely
query, in a state of some bewilderment, that, well, who exactly did they
want? If it appeared chaotic, it must also have been exhilarating. After
all, Gudmundsson, the Icelandic industrial magnate, had bought the club for
£85 million cash, or so everyone thought, the previous year and he had money
to back up his, and Magnusson's, ambitions.

West Ham had survived relegation by the skin of their teeth –they had spent
£23 million in January, expenditure they are still paying for with contracts
for the likes of Nigel Quashie and Luis Boa Morte – through an astonishing
run of seven victories in their final nine league matches. Now the
Icelanders wanted to push on.

Magnusson had dreamt of European nights at Upton Park with his friend, the
Uefa President Michel Platini, his guest in the executive box. But, despite
his own background in football administration, Magnusson wasn't equipped to
run a club. Board meetings were brief; consultation minimal and by the end
of the year Gudmundsson had his own misgivings over the financial management
of West Ham and so Magnusson departed, stripped of his five per cent stake
as well as his office and power. By now Gudmundsson's businesses were
listing. Talk of the businessman building a £250 million, 60,000-seat
stadium, to be privately financed no less, stopped and it became apparent
that he was struggling. His advisers claimed West Ham would not be sold but
discreetly started to put out feelers.

It eventually came to a head last year when Gudmundsson was unceremoniously
dumped as the club's owner with a new company, CB (Claret and Blue) Holding,
taking control.

In effect it meant that the Icelandic bank, Straumur, which, it transpired,
had lent Gudmundsson the money to buy West Ham in the first place, and which
itself was in danger of going under, inherited a football club along with
other creditors. What a litany of woes. Straumur has been pilloried by some
for its involvement but beyond a, now unwise, decision to lend money to
Gudmundsson it's hard to see what it has done wrong.

Certainly Straumur had the best intentions when it talked about a three-year
plan of stability and it could, legitimately if it had taken a hard-headed
business decision, have had a fire sale of the likes of Robert Green,
Carlton Cole and Parker.

West Ham have, certainly, been indebted to some shrewd husbandry from chief
executive Scott Duxbury who, throughout all of this, has stuck as much as he
could to a business plan – The Football Project – he drew up and presented
to Gudmundsson as a way forward and a move away from the "haphazard way of
spending money". Duxbury has craved stability and wants to turn West Ham, as
much as possible, into a self-sustaining entity.

He may soon get his wish. Straumur has successfully created a market for
potential buyers and Rothschild Bank has worked its way through so that now
a resolution is close to being found.

Straumur, with its extension of a debt moratorium, is right in continuing to
claim it does not have to sell but it has become increasingly apparent that
the best way forward for West Ham is to finally sever all links with
Iceland.

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Wolves finally postponed
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 9th January 2010
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United's Premier League clash with Wolves has been cancelled due to
the wintery weather conditions. The club, who had been doing its level best
to ensure the fixture goes ahead has this morning been forced to postpone
the game due to 'health and safety concerns'. Although the pitch at the
Boleyn Ground is playable thanks to the underground heating system installed
some years ago advice from the police and local authorities, no doubt
mindful of the potential for accidents on slippery pavements around the
ground (that remain, for the most, un-gritted) left the club with little
choice but to cancel the gam e.
Details of the rearranged fixture will be confirmed in the near future; the
club stating on whufc.com: "We will have full information of the new date
for the fixture as soon as confirmed. All tickets sold will remain valid for
the rearranged match while anyone requiring a refund, once the details are
known, should contact the ticket office."

News of the postponement is a bitter blow to the club, who could have risen
to 13th had they beaten the Wanderers. Not only will West Ham lose that
opportunity, but also the revenue from Sky TV who were due to broadcast the
game live tomorrow afternoon. Only two Premier League games remain on this
weekend; Birmingham's clash with Manchester United and Arsenal's clash with
Everton (just a few miles up the road at Ashburton Grove).

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Zola - Cole return is vital
Hammers boss looking forward to welcoming strike ace back
By Chris Burton Last updated: 9th January 2010
SSN

Gianfranco Zola is hoping the return to fitness of Carlton Cole will help to
steer West Ham clear of danger. The England international, who has scored
seven goals for the struggling Hammers this season, has returned to light
training and is targeting a first-team recall by the end of January. Zola
admits he cannot wait to have the burly frontman back in contention but
insists he will not rush him back into action too soon, especially as the
talented 26-year-old is still harbouring World Cup aspirations. "His
recovery is vital. He is such an important player, not only in terms of
goals and what he gives to the team," said Zola, whose side are currently
perched just one place above the Premier League relegation zone. "It would
be a big boost for the other players and I look forward to seeing him
playing soon with us. "They're talking about towards the end of the month.
We're not putting pressure on him. We want him, when he comes back, to be
fit for the whole season and for the World Cup, hopefully."
Cole is among those being regularly linked with a move away from the Hammers
during the winter transfer window, with the capital club continuing to work
to tight financial constraints. Midfield dynamo Scott Parker is another to
be attracting interest, with the former Chelsea man finally beginning to
fulfil the potential which earned him three England caps. "He did very well
for me last year too until he got injured," said Zola. "It comes from
maturity, experience and composure that he has got. Also, because the way we
play suits his game very well. I think it's a mixture. "He's doing great and
I'm expecting him to keep doing that."
Zola has announced on several occasions that he intends to retain the
services of his key men this month, and the Italian will have been buoyed by
comments from Parker suggesting he remains fully committed to the West Ham
cause. "It has gone pretty well for me," said Parker. "I have enjoyed what
has been happening at West Ham and I am looking forward to the future now.
"When you are in the situation we are in you can't be too negative. We are
playing well and we are scoring goals. "There are some negatives along the
way but we need to get a couple of back-to-back wins now."

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Hammers loan out youngster
Eyjolfsson to continue his development in Belgium
By Gerrit van Leeuwen Last updated: 9th January 2010
SSN

West Ham starlet Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson has joined Belgian outfit Roeselare
on loan. The 19-year-old defender is yet to force his way into the
first-team reckoning at Upton Park and took in a spell at League Two side
Cheltenham earlier this season. His development will now continue in
Belgium, where he is set to join a team currently battling relegation.
Roeselare are an ambitious outfit, though, and have already been busy in the
transfer window strengthening their squad. Iceland U21 international
Eyjolfsson hopes they will provide him with an opportunity to prove his
worth and catch the eye of West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola. "At West Ham I
haven't played very much so at Roeselare I want to play more minutes," said
the youngster. "Playing for points every week will help to make me
stronger."

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Franco Suffers Injury Blow
West Ham Till I Die

More bad news for West Ham. Guillermo Franco has picked up a muscle injury
which will keep him out of the next two games. There were rumours that it
was something more serious but having spoken to a club source I am pleased
to put that particular rumour to rest.

The good news is that there will be a whole host of returnees for the Villa
game, and Carlton Cole is likely to be available for the away match at
Portsmouth.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 9th January 2010

Wolves match preview
WHUFC.com
All the early team news and stats ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League
game at the Boleyn Ground
08.01.2010

Barclays Premier League
West Ham United v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Boleyn Ground
Sunday 10 January
1.30pm
Referee: Phil Dowd

• West Ham United play host to Wolverhampton Wanderers looking to make it
three games in a row unbeaten at home in the Barclays Premier League.

• A Boleyn Ground draw with Chelsea on 20 December, coupled with three
points in the Boxing Day game with Portsmouth, moved the Hammers out of the
bottom three and another maximum on Sunday could move Gianfranco Zola's side
up to 13th in the table.

• The Hammers will be looking to continue their encouraging home form in the
league. In their last eight matches in east London, the Hammers have won
three and drawn three with just the narrow defeat by Everton and the loss to
Manchester United the only blotches on their Boleyn Ground copy book in that
time.

• The hosts have enjoyed a good run of form against the Midlanders, with
four wins and just one defeat in their last six meetings. They have not lost
at home to Wolves since 1978.

• Their visitors, however, are in good form and have won three of their last
six Barclays Premier League games.

• This will be the second league meeting between the two sides and West Ham
United's second 'return' fixture of the season. The Hammers won 2-0 at
Molineux on the opening day of the season on 15 August.

• This will be the sides' second encounter in the Premier League but they
have met 56 times before. West Ham hold the upper hand with 26 wins. Wolves
have emerged victorious on 17 occasions.

Last time out

Sunday 3 January 2009
FA Cup third round
West Ham United 1-2 Arsenal

West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Daprela, Kovac, Behrami,
Stanislas (Edgar 88), Diamanti, Jimenez, Nouble (Sears 79)
Subs not used: Stech, N'Gala, Da Costa, Payne, Lee
Goal: Diamanti 45

Sunday 3 January 2009
FA Cup third round
Tranmere Rovers 0-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolverhampton Wanderers: Hennessey, Foley, Stearman, Craddock, Mancienne,
Stephen Ward, Henry, Jarvis, Milijas (Halford 89), Ebanks-Blake (Elokobi
89), Iwelumo (Vokes 76)
Subs not used: Surman, David Jones, Zubar, Hahnemann
Goal: Jarvis 77

Last meeting

The teams last met at Molineux on 15 August 2009 when goals from Mark Noble
and Matthew Upson ensured a 2-0 away win for the Hammers. The teams that day
were -

West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Upson, Collins, Ilunga (Spector 65),
Parker, Noble, Collison, Dyer (Stanislas 73), Jimenez, Cole (Nouble 90)
Subs not used: Kurucz, Gabbidon, Spector, Payne, Hines

Wolverhampton Wanderers: Hennessey, Foley (Vokes 75), Mancienne (Stearman
67), Craddock, Ward, Halford, Henry, Milijas (Edwards 80), Jarvis,
Ebanks-Blake, Keogh
Subs not used: Hahnemann, Elokobi, Surman, Jones

Head to head

Last six meetings (league unless stated)

15 August 2009 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-2 West Ham United
15 January 2005 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-2 West Ham United
2 October 2004 - West Ham United 1-0 Wolverhampton Wanderers
25 January 2004 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-3 West Ham United (FA Cup)
6 March 1993 - West Ham United 3-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers
4 October 1992 - Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-0 West Ham United

Next up

West Ham United play Aston Villa at Villa Park a week on Sunday, while
Wolves play host to Wigan Athletic next Saturday.

Referee

• Sunday's referee is Phil Dowd.

• Dowd began refereeing in 1984 before graduating to the Staffordshire
Senior League and Midland Football Alliance.

• He joined the Football League list of assistant referees in 1992 before
joining the list of referees in 1997.

• Dowd was promoted to the Barclays Premier League list of referees in 2001.
This is his ninth season as a top-flight referee.

• He was the fourth official at the 2006 FA Cup final between West Ham
United and Liverpool at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

• Dowd took charge of five West Ham matches last season, most notably the
3-1 home victory over Newcastle United on 20 September, Gianfranco Zola's
first match as Hammers manager. Dowd was also the man in the middle for West
Ham's home matches against Arsenal, Fulham and Manchester United and the
penultimate game of the season away at Everton.

• Sunday's game will be Dowd's third Hammers game of the season after
refereeing the goalless draw with Blackburn Rovers on 29 August and the 2-2
draw with Fulham on 4 October.

West Ham United

• In their last Barclays Premier League home game at the Boleyn Ground - the
2-0 Premier League win against Portsmouth - West Ham United kept their first
clean sheet since the 0-0 draw at Blackburn Rovers on 29 August.

• The Hammers have scored all seven of the penalties they have been awarded
this season, a Barclays Premier League high.

• West Ham have scored 28 goals this season in the league with eleven
different scorers registering. Carlton Cole leads the way (seven), with
Alessandro Diamanti (five) and Guille Franco (three) next in line. Jack
Collison (two), Matthew Upson (two), Junior Stanislas (two), Manuel da
Costa, Mark Noble, Luis Jimenez, Zavon Hines and Radoslav Kovac have also
registered.

• Cole is West Ham's top scorer this season with seven goals in 13 league
games. The England striker has scored 14 goals in 25 Premier League games
since Boxing Day 2008.

• Scott Parker has been booked seven times this season, Guille Franco five -
leading to his suspension last weekend - while Julien Faubert, Cole and Mark
Noble are each on four yellow cards.

• Only Robert Green has played in every league game for the club this
season. He is on a run of 108 successive league starts.

• Diamanti has had 47 shots on goal this season, with 27 of them hitting the
target, both higher than anyone else at the club.

• Jack Collison has more assists (four) than anyone else, while Mark Noble
has put in the highest number of crosses (19) at the club.

• Matthew Upson has the highest number of defensive clearances (21), while
his central defensive partner James Tomkins has made 17 defensive blocks.

Wolverhampton Wanderers

• While they may have three wins in six, Mick McCarthy's side will be
looking to avoid their third consecutive defeat.

• Kevin Doyle is the club's top scorer with five goals from 32 shots.

Team news

• Gianfranco Zola could recall key first-team players for Sunday's match.
Guille Franco returns from his one-match suspension, while the likes of
Scott Parker, Mark Noble, Jack Collison and Herita Ilunga could be involved
after missing last weekend's FA Cup defeat by Arsenal.

• Fabio Daprela, who impressed greatly on his first-team debut at left-back
against Arsenal last weekend, will be eager to be involved again.

• Danny Gabbidon and Kieron Dyer are both likely to miss out as they are
still recovering from their hamstring injuries.

• Frank Nouble has been struggling with a calf injury since making his debut
last weekend, but will be hoping to keep his place in attack if fit. Freddie
Sears could make his first Barclays Premier League appearance of the season
after his return from a loan spell at Crystal Palace.

• Long-term absentees Luis Boa Morte (knee) and Calum Davenport (leg) are
also definitely unavailable.

• Carlton Cole is making good progress from his knee injury and is aiming
for a late January return.

• Wolves are set to welcome back leading goalscorer Doyle, who missed last
weekend's FA Cup win at Tranmere through illness.

• Defender Christophe Berra could also be in contention after recovering
from concussion.

Old boys

• Carlton Cole spent two months on loan at Wolves at the end of 2003, where
he made seven appearances, scoring one goal.

• First-team coach Kevin Keen played 42 times for Wolves after leaving West
Ham in 1993.

• Nigel Quashie spent the tail end of the 2008/09 season on loan at
Molineux, playing three games.

Others who have played for both clubs include Jeremie Aliadiere, Edward
Anderson, Frank Burrill, Henri Camara, Robert 'Dickie' Deacon, Tommy Dunn,
Noel Dwyer, Joe Gallagher, Bobby Gould, Harry Hooper, Tudor Martin, Shaun
Newton and Dick Richards.

General information

Tickets for the match are now on general sale. For ticket information, click
here. For details on getting to the Boleyn Ground, click here

Weather: Sunday's forecast is for cold day with some possible snow showers.
Temperatures are not expected to get above freezing.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Quartet in contention
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola could have up to four key first-team players back for the
visit of Wolves
08.01.2010

Gianfranco Zola has a key quartet of players in contention for Sunday's
vital game with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Jonathan Spector, Jack Collison,
Scott Parker and Mark Noble could make a return from injury, while Guille
Franco is available again after suspension, giving the West Ham United
manager a welcome selection headache ahead of the Boleyn Ground match. "The
game is very important," he said. "Some of the games coming up are very
important and it is vital that we play the same way as we have done recently
and if we do so we have a very good chance. "We will have Mark Noble coming
in, Jontathan Spector coming in, Guillermo Franco coming in and also Scott
Parker. It is a maybe with Scott, we will see. There are some positives
about that."
Their absence from last weekend's narrow FA Cup defeat by Arsenal meant Zola
was forced to turn to some of the younger members of his squad. The West Ham
United manager is confident that if his starting XI show similar application
and commitment against Wolves, who have not won in east London since 1978, a
third consecutive home league game unbeaten should be secured. "The players
know they played a good game against Arsenal and were unfortunate not to get
anything out of it," he suggested. "It wasn't necessary to do much work as
they know if they can maintain that on Sunday they will get points. "Arsenal
was a mixture of strength and also a bit of luck in the way the game went.
It didn't affect the players' confidence as they know they played a good
game and if they repeat that standard they will be alright."
The wintry weather has already put paid to some Premier League fixtures this
weekend, but with the Boleyn Ground pitch and surrounding areas in good
condition on Friday afternoon, Sunday's game looks set to go ahead. "I think
there might be a lot of snow coming at the weekend so I don't know what
might happen. We will prepare like we have to play so we will see what
happens. "This week has been a difficult weather-wise but it is the same for
everyone else. It might be nice to have a little rest but we will see what
happens and stand by what happens. Like the rest of the country the cold
conditions have hit Chadwell Heath, but for Zola and his players it has not
prevented them from training fully. "The players have kept their focus
despite the difficulties. It hasn't been ideal but it hasn't been ideal for
everyone in the country. "It hasn't been easy and everybody has had to leave
earlier. It is part of it and we can't do anything about it. We can only
adapt to the situation and get the best out of it and we did so."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
No old pals act
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins will go up against England Under-21 team-mate Michael
Mancienne on Sunday
08.01.2010

James Tomkins will be looking to get one over England Under-21 team-mate
Michael Mancienne when West Ham United host Wolverhampton Wanderers. In an
interview with the official matchday programme for Sunday's Barclays Premier
League fixture, the 20-year-old revealed how he had got to know Mancienne
well during the duo's time at last summer's UEFA European U21 Championship
finals in Sweden. Tomkins made his U21 debut partnering Mancienne in
England's 7-0 friendly victory over Azerbaijan in June, and the pair have
since become manager Stuart Pearce's first-choice central defenders.
However, the young Hammer said any friendships would count for nothing when
West Ham take on Mick McCarthy's side this weekend. "I have known Michael
for quite a while and we have played together for the England U21s," said
Tomkins. "I rate Michael as a good player. He is very versatile and can play
at right-back, centre-back and in midfield. He is very good on the ball and
is a nice lad too. We've played together quite a lot now and we get on well.
"It will be good to see him again today, but obviously it's more important
that we pick up the win and the three points that we need."

In a wide-ranging interview, Tomkins also discusses his increasingly
important role in Gianfranco Zola's West Ham team, his support for close
friend Jack Collison following the death of the midfielder's father, and
moving out of home.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Wolverhampton
BBC.co.uk
Sunday, 10 January 2010
Venue: Boleyn Ground Date: Sunday, 10 January 2010 Kick-off: 1330 GMT
Coverage: BBC Sport website, BBC Radio 5 Live, local radio, live on Sky
Sports 1 & highlights on Match of the Day 2

TEAM NEWS
West Ham midfielders Mark Noble and Scott Parker should return from the
hamstring strains that caused them to miss the FA Cup defeat by Arsenal.
Forward Guillermo Franco returns to the squad, having served a one-match
suspension.
Wolves welcome back leading goalscorer Kevin Doyle, who missed last
weekend's FA Cup win at Tranmere through illness. Defender Christophe Berra
will also be restored to the side after recovering from concussion.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

West Ham
Suspended: None Doubtful: None
Injured: Boa Morte, Cole & Hines (all knee), Davenport (leg), Dyer, Gabbidon
& Ilunga (all hamstring)

Wolves
Suspended: None Doubtful: None
Injured: Edwards, Keogh & Kightly (all ankle), Murray (knee)

MATCH PREVIEW
The reverse fixture on the opening day of the season was telling for Wolves
but misleading for West Ham.

It is a matter of being strong mentally and I have no doubt we are destined
for many good things

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola
The Hammers were worthy 2-0 winners at Molineux, but have only managed three
more victories in the first half of the season. They will have expected to
fare far better following a top-ten finish last year.

A season of survival was always on the agenda for promoted Wolves, and they
have spent most of the campaign in the bottom six. Nonetheless, they sit a
point above West Ham in the table and their manager Mick McCarthy believes
his current squad is good enough to keep the club in the top flight.

As for West Ham, their perilous position has not deterred potential suitors
from taking over the club. There have been offers from the American-led
Intermarket group as well as by ex-Birmingham City owners David Gold and
David Sullivan. It is reported that a deal could be concluded within the
next week.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

• West Ham are unbeaten in their last six home matches against Wolves (W4,
D2). Their only home defeat in the last 15 meetings was 2-1 in the old First
Division in March 1978.

• The Hammers are vying to complete the league double over Wolves for the
first time in 87 years.

• The Hammers have only won one of their last six league games, mustering
just four points in that period.

• It is 13 months since they last came from behind to win a league match - a
2-1 home victory against Stoke in December 2008.

• They have been awarded - and scored - seven penalties in ten league
matches at home this season, including one in each of their last four home
matches. Their last penalty miss was by Mark Noble in a 1-0 home defeat by
Chelsea in April 2009.

• Alessandro Diamanti has scored four goals in five matches.

Wolves

• They have lost six of their last nine league games, including the last
two. They have yet to lose three successive league games this season.

• Wolves have scored the fewest goals in the division this season: 17 in 20
matches.

• Jody Craddock will play his 200th game for Wolves, while Matthew Jarvis
has made 199 career appearances.

LEADING GOALSCORERS

West Ham

Cole: 7 goals (7 league); Diamanti: 6 goals (5 league)

Wolves

Doyle: 5 goals (5 league); Craddock: 4 goals (4 league)

MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee: Phil Dowd

Assistant referees: Mark Scholes & Martin Yerby

Fourth official: Lee Probert

LAST LEAGUE MATCH LINE-UPS
West Ham (L0-2 v Tottenham, a): Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Ilunga
(Spector 19), Collison (Stanislas 79), Behrami, Kovac, Parker (Jimenez 12),
Diamanti, Franco. Subs not used: Stech, Da Costa, Nouble, Payne.

Wolves (L0-3 v Man City, h): Hahnemann; Foley (Jarvis 80), Berra (Stearman
45), Craddock, Elokobi, Mancienne, Zubar, Henry, Surman, Doyle (Ebanks-Blake
73), Iwelumo. Subs not used: Hennessey, Castillo, Maierhofer, Milijas.

MOST RECENT MEETING

Wolves 0-2 West Ham (15 August 2009)

West Ham scorers: Noble 22, Upson 69.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola confident on players
Hammers boss thinks stars will stay
Last updated: 8th January 2010
SSN

West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is confident he can keep his best players
at Upton Park during the January transfer window. The cash-strapped Hammers
are currently flirting with the relegation zone in the Premier League and
speculation has mounted that they may have to let their prized assets leave
the club. Carlton Cole, Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Robert Green have
all been linked with moves away from East London in recent weeks, although
Zola reveals the club have yet to receive any firm offers.
The Italian coach admits there is bound to be interest in some of his
players, but hopes they will be going nowhere. "I know I have good players
in my team and it is normal that teams are looking for them. I am confident
we can keep our best players," he said. "I don't think we have had any
enquiries so far. I haven't been told so. I am confident I can keep them
here. "I don't deal with these things (transfers). I am just dealing with
the players we have and I try to make them happy to stay here."
While speculation has mounted that the Hammers are set to sell a number of
key figures, they have also been linked with a few incoming transfers.
Strikers Marlon Harewood, James Beattie and Eider Gudjohnsen have been
touted as possible signings, but Zola has refused to name names. "We are
looking into something," he added. "That doesn't mean we need to talk about
it. I don't think it would be a wise thing to do. "In two days' time I have
a very big match coming up against Wolves and for me to talk about the
players that might come in or that may go out certainly won't help the
situation. "What matters to me is that we win the game on Sunday which is
vital for us."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Wolves preview
Hammers aiming to move above opponents
Last updated: 8th January 2010
SSN

PREDICTIONS:

Skysports.com prediction: West Ham 1 Wolves 0
SKYBET odds: West Ham 4/5, Draw 5/2, Wolves 7/2
One to watch: Scott Parker

West Ham welcome Wolves for the lunchtime kick-off on Sunday looking to
bounce back from last weekend's 2-1 FA Cup third-round defeat by Arsenal.
Gianfranco Zola's side could move above their opponents in the table if they
are able to secure maximum points and will be buoyed by some encouraging
league form at Upton Park. The Hammers have won three and drawn three of
their last eight Premier League encounters in East London with their only
defeats coming at the hands of Everton and Manchester United.
Wolves' top-flight form away from Molineux is not the strongest and with
just one win on their travels since August, they will be expecting another
tough afternoon in the frosty conditions. Mick McCarthy's side have lost
three of their last four Premier League games but secured a morale-boosting
1-0 victory in the FA Cup at Tranmere last weekend.
West Ham trio Scott Parker, Mark Noble and Jack Collison all missed out
against the Gunners but are likely to earn recalls to the starting XI.
Guille Franco is also available after a one-match suspension. Fabio Daprela
and Frank Nouble both impressed on their full debuts last weekend and will
be hoping to retain their places in the side. Danny Gabbidon and Kieron Dyer
are unlikely to recover in time from their respective hamstring problems and
the game also comes too soon for Carlton Cole (knee). Long-term absentees
Luis Boa Morte (knee) and Calum Davenport (leg) are definitely out. Wolves
should be boosted by the return of Kevin Doyle and Christophe Berra. Striker
Doyle (illness) and defender Berra (concussion) were both absent at Tranmere
but Doyle is poised to take over from Chris Iwelumo, with Berra likely to
replace Michael Mancienne. Goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann, who was rested for
the cup success, will return to the starting line-up in place of Wales
international Wayne Hennessey.

Possible starting XIs
West Ham: Green, Upson, Tomkins, Behrami, Noble, Collison, Parker, Faubert,
Diamanti, Franco, Nouble.

Wolves: Hahnemann, Craddock, Berra, Elokobi, Stearman, Doyle, Milijas,
Ebanks-Blake, Jarvis, Henry, Ward.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Playing the Waiting Game, While the Transfer Clock Counts Down
West Ham Till I Die

Like other Hammers fan I am waiting patiently for signs of movement on the
ownership/investment front. I am also keeping a nervous watch on the
counting down of the clock for the winter transfer window.

The speculation about the various takeover options have been at fever pitch
in recent weeks. Is it the Sullivan & Gold, Inter-market or Fernandes bid
that will ultimately prove successful? Will it be a complete buy-out or a
51% controlling interest now, with an option to buy out the rest at some
point in the future? Will Fernandes bid as part of a consortium
arrangement? Are the Inter-Market and Fernandes bids linked in some way?
Just who are the investors behind the Inter-Market bid?

These are the type of questions on which fans are speculating. While we may
be understandably frustrated at the lack of information about the Rothschild
process, the fact is that it is a legal process, and the bidding parties,
are bound by strict confidentiality clauses. All we can be confident about
is that there are bids submitted and C&B Holdings are currently considering
them.

Alternatively, there is the other option, that C&B Holdings will find the
bids unacceptable and retain 100% control of the club. It is a possibility,
afterall they have openly stated that they may secure a better deal in a
season or two, when market conditions for a sale are better? The threat to
that strategy is obviously our current league position and the threat of
relegation.

The truth is that if they do retain control then they need to find funds to
enable Zola to strengthen his squad in January. To reject the various bids,
whilst keeping the purse strings closed would be a potential mistake of
2002-03 proportions. It would also be a possible mistake that would gamble
with the eventual value of the very asset that they hope to maximise. I am
certain that they are all too aware of this and will take the action
necessary to negate the threat!

I know that there is the much debated option of cashing in on Upson, but how
much of the estimated £10-12m fee would Zola have to reinvest in a
replacement? We also need a right-back, probably another centre back and a
striker, could a deal for Upson deliver that? Perhaps, but it would take
some smart wheeler dealing to bring it about. Maybe the loan market will
help deliver some quality short-term additions?

Although we are in the dark about the current state of affairs on the
ownership issue, hopefully the club's senior management are keeping Zola and
Clarke fully briefed and helping them put their transfer plans in to action?
One would anticipate that Zola, Clarke and Nani will have their list of
potential targets, based upon the various level of transfer funds that could
be available? Hopefully, initial inquiries will have been made and the
wheels will be in motion? Because every day that goes by in the transfer
window, without such progress, reduces the probability that the January
deals will actually materialise.

In the meantime all that can be done is to focus on the current squad and
ensure that we win the next vital home fixture with Wolves. I have always
believed in this squad, the core quality and promise of our youngsters is
not in question. It is the balance and strength-in-depth of the squad that
is the key issue. We do not have the depth to deal with the inevitable
injury absences of key players. Whilst positions like full-back have been
a obvious problem all season.

Having said that, it is not by any means a bleak picture. The team have
played well this season without getting the results they have deserved.
They have been very competitive and, apart from Manchester Utd at home, have
not taken any real beatings. Diamanti is proving a key forward, Parker has
been truly magnificent all season, the warrior Behrami is back and giving
110%, Upson is a quality centre half, Franco looks a quality forward, Kovac
appears to be making more of an impact and Carlton Cole in on the way back.

What we really need is for some of the others to really step up to the plate
now. Green needs to get back to his best, Noble must once again become the
inspirational figure of the 2006-07 'great escape,' Tomkins, Stanislas and
Collison need to play their undoubted potential, Illunga must regain his
form of last season and it would help if someone like Sears suddenly comes
good.

Over the remaining months of the season we have a run of very winnable
fixtures. The points are there for the taking, starting with Wolves this
Sunday, the weather permitting!!

COYI.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mick weary of wounded Hammers
Wolves boss concerned with Upton Park atmosphere
By Elliot Ball Last updated: 8th January 2010
SSN

LIVE ON SKY SPORTS
West Ham v Wolves
1pm, Sat, Sky Sports HD1, Sky Sports 1 and online with Sky Player
Click here to remote record

Mick McCarthy has warned Wolves not to underestimate Sunday's opponents West
Ham in a game which can be seen live on Sky Sports HD1. Many predicted
Wolves to be lurking around the lower echelons of the division, but few
thought the Wanderers would be a point better off than the Hammers at this
stage of the season after the duo met on the opening day of the campaign.
Gianfranco Zola's men took a 2-0 win from the Molineux clash in August and
they will be desperate to replicate that result on home soil and McCarthy
saw enough of the East London outfit in their FA Cup exit last weekend to
recognise the difficulty of the challenge facing his side. "I saw their game
against Arsenal and they are a force to be reckoned with at Upton Park," the
Irishman said of the Hammers, who have won three and drawn as many from
their last eight home outings in the league. "They always have been. They
are always a good side at home. Results this time might suggest otherwise
but on their day at Upton Park they are terrific. "It is a difficult place
to go and play because the crowd are right on you, they are partisan. "They
get a fantastic crowd and it can be a tough place to play. But they have had
mixed results this season and that is the reason they are where they are.
Just like us, mixed results."
Wolves follow the trip to West Ham with a crucial home encounter against
Wigan and McCarthy is not hiding from the fact that in terms of the whole
season they are crucial games in the battle to avoid relegation. "These next
two games do look vital and you can't argue with that," added the former
Republic of Ireland tactician. "They are very important for all the three
clubs involved, not just us. The three of us are right together and they are
hugely important, of course they are. "We don't approach these kind of games
any differently than any others but they are harder games emotionally, they
are harder games because the pressure is on us to win them. "The games
against the top sides, the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal and
Manchester United are harder physically because they move you around and
make you run. "But emotionally, the hard ones are the teams who are in and
around us. "The two games coming up, starting against West Ham, are going to
be pulling on the heartstrings and the butterflies are going to be clumping
around. "That is where the pressure, the stresses, strains and emotional
pressure comes from. "But then that is what we have to cope with. They are
great games for us."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham look to Russia to solve Upton Park striker crisis
By Ashley Gray
Last updated at 3:38 PM on 08th January 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham have made a bid to sign Belarus striker Sergey Kornilenko on loan
from Zenit St Petersburg. The cash-strapped Hammers want to take the 6ft 1in
target man until the end of the season. The 26-year-old, who has scored nine
goals in 30 international appearances, has been told he can find a new club
just six months after joining the Russian giants from Tom Tomsk for
£1.2million. Kornilenko scored just once in 12 appearances for Zenit and is
not in the plans of new manager Luciano Spalletti. Tom had hoped to take him
back on loan, but now concede they can't compete with the Hammers. Tom boss
Valeri Nepomniachi said: 'Apart from out interest, Sergey has proposals from
a foreign club and a top Russian club. 'Sergey admitted that he'd like to
play for Tom again, but the question is what proposal will be more
interesting for him. 'It is our understanding that West Ham are interested,
so our chances are probably not too great. Nevertheless, we've made an offer
for Kornilenko.'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola promises to keep his England trio
Evening Standard
08.01.10

Gianfranco Zola has insisted he won't be selling his stars during this
month's transfer window. With the future of West Ham's longterm ownership
still to be resolved there has been speculation over possible moves for
England internationals Carlton Cole, Robert Green and Matthew Upson. But
Zola said: "We want to keep all our best players. Nothing's changed in that
respect and that is what I expect is going to happen this month. "The
ownership matter is something I cannot affect. I can't buy the club
otherwise I would do that, so really it is out of my control." Cole will
miss Sunday's game against Wolves as he is recovering from a knee ligament
injury. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger had been linked with the striker but
said: "He is a great player that I rate but he is injured and we do not want
to add another injured player to what is already a very long list."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gianfranco Zola demands emergency summit to discuss West Ham departures
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 12:21 AM on 09th January 2010
Daily Mail

Gianfranco Zola is set to hold crisis talks with the West Ham board next
week to discuss any big-name departures and the potential takeover of the
club. England trio Robert Green, Matthew Upson and Carlton Cole have
attracted interest from a number of clubs, while Scott Parker has also been
linked with a move to Tottenham. Hammers boss Zola needs to keep his star
players if the club are to retain their Barclays Premier League status and
he is seeking assurances from the Icelandic board over the long-term future
of the club. Zola said: 'For me to talk about players who might come in or
might go out will not help our situation. 'I don't like dealing with these
things. I like working with the players on the pitch and try to make them
happy to stay here. 'I will have an update next week. I think that we will
have an important meeting and we will see what we can do.'
Zola is also hoping the board can sort out the ownership of the club because
new investors could provide finance to strengthen the squad in January. The
Italian added: 'It would be good for everybody - it would stop so much
speculation.'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
JACK COLLISON: GIANFRANCO ZOLA'S BRILLIANT FOR WEST HAM
ABOVE: Gianfranco Zola 9th January 2010 By Paul Brown
The Star

JACK COLLISON claims Gianfranco Zola proves great players CAN make great
managers. And the West Ham and Wales ­midfielder insists the Hammers owe
their boss a big win against fellow strugglers Wolves tomorrow. There is a
long list of famous ­footballers who flopped in management, including Sir
Bobby Charlton, John Barnes and Bryan Robson. And many questioned whether
former Chelsea and Italy star Zola was too nice to manage in the cut-throat
world of the Premier League. But Collison said: "I think Franco's been
brilliant. He's played at the top and was one of the best players ever to
play in the Premier League. "I think the whole of football ­admires Franco
for what he did for the game. He was one hell of a player and such a good
person off the pitch as well. "Things might not be going too well for us
right now, but the players ­believe in him. We feel he's doing the right
things for us. We just have to stick together. "I learn things from Franco
all the time. He's very hands-on and he ­really cares about the team. You
couldn't ask for much more from a manager. "He gave me an opportunity and he
wants us to go out and play with ­freedom and enjoy our football. That's
what it's about. "If we keep doing that, the results will come and we'll
start pushing our way up the table. "We feel we can do more for the manager.
It's definitely up to us as players to turn it around.
"The boss and his coaching staff get us in the right frame of mind off the
pitch. But it's up to us to go out there and do the business." Collison
reckons West Ham will beat the drop because some of their players remember
doing just that on the final day of the 2006/07 season. He said: "A few of
the boys have done it before. The likes of Mark ­Noble were here when it
went down to the wire. "We just look to them to help get us out of where we
are. Now it's a­ matter of doing things rather than saying things."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 8th January 2010

Youth Cup ticket news
WHUFC.com
Tickets prices for the FA Youth Cup game with Queen's Park Rangers have been
announced
07.01.2010

Tickets details for the FA Youth Cup game with Queens Park Rangers on
Tuesday 19 January have been confirmed. Adult tickets will cost £3 and
juniors £1, with all tickets being sold from the West Stand ticket office on
the night of the match. Entrance to the Boleyn Ground will be through the
West Stand lower only. The Hammers won through to the last-32 for the first
time since 2006 by beating Plymouth Argyle 1-0 after extra time last month.
Republic of Ireland Under-17 forward Danny Purdy emerged from the
substitutes' bench to fire home the vital goal after 104 minutes. Under-18
captain Jordan Brown is determined to build on the strong showing in the
third round on what will be the first outing at the Boleyn Ground for most
of the youngsters. "Beating Plymouth was a big confidence boost. For the
last two seasons we have gone out in the first round so everyone was up for
it. You could tell from the celebrations in the changing rooms afterwards
that everyone was buzzing," he said. "I didn't mind who we got in the next
round but I'm glad we got a home tie."
West Ham have won the FA Youth Cup three times since its inception in 1953,
lifting the trophy in 1963, 1981 and 1999, when the Hammers secured a record
9-0 aggregative victory over Coventry City in the final. QPR, who have never
reached the final of the competition, reached the fourth round courtesy of a
3-1 home victory over Southampton on Tuesday 8 December. The match will
kick-off at 7pm with turnstiles opening an hour before kick-off. Fans are
advised to arrive in plenty of time to get tickets before the start of the
game.

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Zola staying focused
WHUFC.com
The cold weather has not got in the way of Gianfranco Zola's preparations
for Sunday's game with Wolves
07.01.2010

It has been business as usual for Gianfranco Zola and his West Ham United
squad this week with the snow and ice not getting in the way of weekend
preparations. The manager and his staff have been putting the players
through their paces ahead of the visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday
afternoon. The club's training ground and stadium staff have pulled out all
the stops to ensure pitches are playable and facilities are in full use.
Zola, who is hoping to have a number of players back including the
free-from-suspension Guille Franco, said: "The weather has made things a
little difficult this week and it has snowed a lot but it hasn't changed
anything in terms of our focus. The players have been positive and up for it
and I am expecting a lot from them on Sunday. "We can take heart from last
weekend against Arsenal. If we maintain the attitude we showed we will see
the benefit in the next few games. We will have important players back and
the luck will change. "However, I don't like talking about luck too much
because we are in control of our own destiny. We have to keep our attitude
and the passion and we will get the rewards we deserve."

The manager was particularly happy with the efforts of his two new full
debutants Fabio Daprela and Frank Nouble against Arsenal and has
subsequently seen them boosted by the experience. "I was pleased. They did
very well and now I know that if I need to, I can rely on them, which is a
very good note. It was encouraging."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fry returns
WHUFC.com
Young defender Matt Fry has returned to Chadwell Heath following his loan
spell with Gillingham
07.01.2010

Defender Matt Fry has returned from his successful loan spell at League One
side Gillingham. The 19-year-old has been ruled out for six weeks with a
knee injury suffered during the Gills 1-1 draw at Exeter City on 28 December
and has returned to Chadwell Heath for treatment. Fry earned rave reviews
after linking up with Mark Stimson's side in October, making 13 league and
FA Cup appearances and his manager there was sad to see him go. "When we
found out on New Year's Eve it was a massive blow," said Stimson. "Matt has
been a pleasure to work with and he's put in some fantastic performances,
especially for someone who is so young and had never before played a league
game.

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Parker wins again
WHUFC.com
Scott Parker has been voted SBOBET Player of the Month for December by users
of whufc.com
05.01.2010

Scott Parker has rounded off his year of impressive personal accolades by
winning December's SBOBET Player of the Month award on whufc.com. Nearly
5,000 fans voted and Parker took a massive 73 per cent of the vote, ahead of
Alessandro Diamanti and Guille Franco. The dynamic midfielder's December
prize adds to his November Player of the Month award, the Hammer of the Year
prize he picked up in the summer and the three consecutive Player of the
Month trophies for his performances throughout January, February and March
of this year. Earlier this campaign, Julien Faubert, Zavon Hines and Carlton
Cole won in August, September and October respectively. Parker is set to be
handed his award after Sunday's game with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

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Eidur mulls over Prem return
Icelander considering his next move
Last updated: 8th January 2010
SSN

Former Chelsea and Bolton ace Eidur Gudjohnsen is mulling over a return to
the Premier League. Gudjohnsen is considering his future at Monaco after a
disappointing spell in France. The Iceland international has failed to
settle in Ligue 1 and the likes of Blackburn, West Ham and Tottenham are all
thought to be keen on bringing Gudjohnsen back to England. His father and
agent Arnor Gudjohnsen admits the 31-year-old is thinking about making a
return to England in this month's transfer window. "I am not sure what he is
going to do," Gudjohnsen Snr told the Daily Mirror. "He is going to take the
next two weeks to decide. He could stay. He is very open. Nobody knows yet.
"He is obviously seriously thinking about a return to England but he has not
made any decision. It is in his hands."

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Harewood wanted by Prem duo
Permanent switch a possibility for Villa striker
Last updated: 7th January 2010
SSN

Premier League strugglers Hull City and West Ham are battling for the
signature of striker Marlon Harewood, according to the player's agent. Phil
Sproson has confirmed that Tigers boss Phil Brown and Hammers counterpart
Gianfranco Zola have spoken to him regarding the forward's availability.
Harewood, who is out of favour at Aston Villa, impressed during a recent
loan spell at Championship side Newcastle, bagging six goals in 15 games to
provide a timely reminder of his scoring ability. And now Brown and Zola are
considering a move, with a loan or permanent switch on the cards for the
side that can put a deal on the table. Hull came close to signing Harewood
in the summer but the transfer fell through on deadline day, although the
East Yorkshire club could still be in line to bring the striker to the KC
Stadium. Sproson told the Hull Daily Mail: "I have spoken to both Phil and
Gianfranco and both said they were interested in Marlon if they can get the
deals sorted at their clubs. "Phil said he is still interested in Marlon and
that he has watched him a couple of times recently. "He said that he had
been impressed that Marlon has clearly got the bit between his teeth again,
but he said he had to get two or three players out before he could bring
anyone in. "That is where we left it, and it is a similar situation with
West Ham."
The Hammers are still paying the price for the collapse of their former
Icelandic owners, while City chairman Adam Pearson has vowed to cut the KC
Stadium wage bill - culling squad players in the process. Villa are eager to
recoup some of the £4million fee they forked out in 2007 following
Harewood's move from West Ham to the Midlands as the 30-year-old could leave
for free at the end of the season when his contract expires. Sproson
explained that the money issues at the two clubs meant no negotiations had
begun.
He added: "Both clubs have registered their interest, but because of their
situations, they have not taken it further as of yet. "Our message has been
that if they want Marlon, he is here and waiting and his record shows that
he scores goals. "He scored six goals in 15 at Newcastle and that was
without a pre-season. "He can do a good job for a Premier League team and we
hope he will be playing that level come the end of the window."

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Hammers go worldwide
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will be exhibiting at a prestigious show in Hong Kong later
this month
07.01.2010

West Ham United will be looking to further increase its standing in Asia
when it exhibits at an upcoming licensing show in Hong Kong for the first
time. The club's growing UK licensing programme - which now boasts 35
licensees - will be highlighted at the high-profile Hong Kong International
Licensing Show this month. Gary Jacobson, from CPLG Sport, who are working
alongside West Ham, believes the club's attendance is a massive coup for the
event. "We are very excited about the Hong Kong Licensing Show and working
with West Ham United to extend the reach of the programme," he said "We are
confident that we have been able to demonstrate that the club has the
capacity to be a licensing success, not just on a local and national level,
but also internationally."
West Ham United's Head of Retail Tam Lever, added: "Following on from the
club's involvement in the 2009 Asia Trophy in Beijing, West Ham United
believe the Hong Kong Licensing Show is a fantastic chance to introduce the
club to new licensing opportunities in the Far East. "Our participation at
this event further reinforces our commitment to expanding our licensing
business in the years to come."

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West Ham United v Wolverhampton Wanderers: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between West Ham United
and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Upton Park on Sunday Jan 10 2010, kick-off
13.30 GMT.
Telegraph.co.uk
By John Ley
Published: 6:00AM GMT 08 Jan 2010

West Ham United v Wolverhampton Wanderers
Upton Park
Kick-off: 13.30 GMT
TV: Live Sky & BBC2 MotD2

This is a crucial game for two teams in the bottom six. Wolves, 15th, have
lost three of their last four in the Premier League while West Ham have one
win in six. West Ham have Guillermo Franco, suspended for the 2-1 FA Cup
defeat by Arsenal, available after a one-match ban. Wolves have lost three
of their last four Premier League games, scoring in just one - the 2-0 win
over Burnley. And they lost 2-0 at home to West Ham on the season's opening
day. Christophe Berra returns from concussion but Andy Keogh, David Edwards
and Michael Kightly are still out.

West Ham (Probable, 4-5-1): Green, Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Daprela;
Behrami, Jimenez, Kovac, Stanislas, Diamanti; Franco.
Wolves (Probable, 4-4-2): Hahnemann; Foley, Berra, Craddock, Ward; Milijas,
Henry, Mancienne, Jarvis; Ebanks-Blake, Doyle.
Referee: Phil Dowd. Matches: 17. R4 Y54.

Last season: N/A.

Stat of the game: Wolves have not won at the Boleyn Ground since March 1978.

Betting tip: A 1-0 home win offers 4-1.

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West Ham United Covet Fiorentina Striker Adrian Mutu - Report
The Hammers are keen on the Romanian hitman...
Jan 7, 2010 10:37:40 PM

Rumours continue to persist that Fiorentina ace Adrian Mutu could be leaving
the Viola this time, for West Ham United. English newspaper Daily Star
reports that the Romanian international could be close to signing a
six-month loan deal with the Hammers, as the player is eager to return to
the Premier League. Mutu could be available as early as January 17, when
West Ham take on Aston Villa. Should the hitman make his way back to
England, he could reunite with former team-mate, and current Hammers
manager, Gianfranco Zola. Zola is convinced that the 30-year-old can end
West Ham's attacking woes as the east London outfit has only scored 28 goals
in 20 league matches. Stay tuned to Goal.com for all the latest on this
story.

Rick D'Andrea, Goal.com

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Cry God for Zola, West Ham and Fortress Upton Park!
West Ham Till I Die

Zola has recently had a bit of a Henry V moment, issuing an inspiring
rallying cry to the Upton Park troops. He has been quoted as urging us fans
to raise the temperature at Upton Park and turn it back in to a formidable
fortress that intimidates the opposition:

"Against Portsmouth on Boxing Day, it was an unbelievable atmosphere. I had
friends over watching the game and afterwards they did not stop talking
about it. We need that every time we play at home.

"We are going to have a tough run of matches for the rest of the season and
we need to create that kind of atmosphere which has always made this place a
fortress. We have to make teams think they are already one-nil down when
they come to play us.

"Against Portsmouth and before that against Chelsea, the players felt that
buzz and responded to it."

I have no problem with that and I agree that the fans have a crucial role to
play. Afterall, in recent club history, who can forget the famous
relegation escapes under Redknapp in the 1990s and the atmosphere created by
the crowd in the victories over (Champions elect) Blackburn, Liverpool and
the draw with Man Utd! Or, even more recently the way we supported the team
in salvaging a supposedly lost cause in the final quarter of the 2006-07
season.

However, I do have one slight qualification, the relationship is not a one
way street with the crowd having sole responsibility for driving on the team
to ever greater effort. It is a two way street, with the effort and
commitment shown on the pitch also raising the passion on the terraces. We
need to see the players react in the right way and, in turn, show their
commitment to the club and its fans.

We Hammers love our skill and passing football, but collateral to that is an
admiration for passion and commitment. For every Moore and Brooking and
there is a Billy Bonds and Julian Dicks (both the latter incidentially also
being technically gifted footballers, but with defining characteristics of
leadership, passion and a will to win).

For the crowd to really do their thing, that passion and effort needs to be
on the displayed on the pitch. Nothing deflates fans like a uncommitted
and disjointed display. Nothing raises the passions like blood and thunder
performances.

So, my message back to Zola is, yes we hear you and agree. But you also
need to make clear to the players about their responsibility to the club
badge and the fans that wear it not just on their chests, but also
emblazoned on their hearts!

In a relegation scenario players can seek transfers and move on to pastures
new, forgetting about their past failures on the pitch. The one thing that
remains a constant at a club is the fans, we cannot transfer our allegiances
so easily. We are there whether it is Di Canio and Joe Cole or Mellor and
Chadwick wearing the colours! That's the crucial difference.

If we have more committed and skillful displays like those against Aston
Villa, Chelski, Portsmouth and Arsenal (twice), then I really do think that
Zola is right and the New Year will see us climb the table.

We may not have a leader like Bonds or Dicks at the moment, but the likes of
Parker, Noble, Behrami and Diamanti have shown that they are warriors and
they will give everything to the cause. The rest of the squad need to
follow their example and both team and fans can each make their unique
contributions both on and off the pitch to salvaging the wreck of the
2009-10 season!

COYI

SJ. Chandos.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - More Takeover Talk

Hammers set for £100 bid
The Sun
By PAT SHEEHAN

WEST HAM are the target of a £100m takeover offer, sparking a bidding war
for Gianfranco Zola's strugglers. The American-led Intermarket group
yesterday lodged their official bid with Rothschild — the bankers instructed
by the Premier League club's owners CB Holding to find buyers. It is
believed to top the bid already made by ex-Birmingham City owners David Gold
and David Sullivan.
A THIRD offer is expected on Monday when multi-millionaire Hammers fan Tony
Fernandes will put in his bid after watching Sunday's relegation crunch
against Wolves. If Intermarket win the bidding war, they have promised boss
Gianfranco Zola cash to spend in the transfer window this month — and have
pledged that NONE of the current squad will leave. Intermarket's bid is
understood to be the highest and there is no doubt West Ham's owners would
like to get a Dutch auction going to push the price as high as possible.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 7th January 2010

Hartson back at the Boleyn
WHUFC.com
John Hartson was in good spirits upon his return to the Boleyn Ground on
Sunday
07.01.2010

John Hartson was a welcome sight at the Boleyn Ground during last Sunday's
FA Cup tie with Arsenal. The former West Ham United and Gunners striker was
in high spirits and took some time out from his media work to thank the West
Ham United fans who have sent him good wishes during his recent illness.
"I've had unbelievable support from West Ham fans, and from those from all
my former clubs. I've had great support from the likes of Cardiff City and
Rangers, too," Hartson said. "I've been inundated with words of support from
both inside and outside sport, and it's been a great help for me and my
family at a difficult time."
Hartson was diagnosed with cancer in July last year and has been undergoing
chemotherapy and following some positive news earlier this month, the
34-year-old is even more determined for the months ahead. "I'm OK now. I'm
feeling much stronger. I've got a bit of surgery early this year on my brain
and my lung, but the chemotherapy seems to have really kicked in and
hopefully I'm going to be really good with it all. "I've got this surgery to
look forward to now, but once I've got that out of the way, I'm hoping to go
from strength to strength. "I feel quite strong. I'm keeping myself busy
doing lots of TV, radio and other media work. Fingers crossed, everything is
going in the right way for me."
The former Wales international scored 33 goals in 73 games for the Hammers
and was the second highest scorer in the Premier League in his first full
season with the club. Although his long-term plan is to get back on the
training pitch to pass his footballing knowledge on, at present he is
content keeping busy with his media work. "For now, I don't feel strong
enough to go out on to the training ground every single day. I've done all
my coaching badges, so I'm fully badged up with my C, B and A licences.
"Going on the television with Andy Townsend and Matt Holland and doing the
radio is the next best thing to playing and coaching. Being at the ground
and being involved is the next best thing to playing and if I can't play and
coach because I don't feel physically strong enough yet after my treatment,
that is the next best thing for me. "Long term, I'm hoping to get in
somewhere managing and coaching, but that could be years down the line yet."

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Fabio feeling fine
WHUFC.com
Fabio Daprela is looking for more on Sunday after his West Ham United
first-team bow
06.01.2010

Fabio Daprela is determined not to rest on his laurels after making his West
Ham United debut. The 18-year-old left-back impressed against Arsenal on his
first start last weekend, and is pushing to keep his place for the vital
Barclays Premier League visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday. Herita
Ilunga is still struggling with a hamstring injury and Daprela is ready to
step in once more, should he be required. "Maybe I'll play against Wolves. I
don't know what the manager's decision will be. Everybody hopes to play in
the Premier League. My hope is to impress him in training and he will pick
me again."
The news that he was going to make his debut came as such a surprise for the
Switzerland Under-19 international, that he did not have time to get his
family over to the Boleyn Ground for the game. "The manager read out the
team and I found out I was playing. It was obviously too late for my family
to come over to watch, but I can send them a DVD. It was also on Sky in
Switzerland, so they were able to watch."

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West Ham and Millwall face crowd trouble hearing
BBC.co.uk

A three-day Football Association hearing into crowd trouble at West Ham's
Carling Cup match against Millwall is due to start on Wednesday. Both clubs
are expected to mount a strong defence against FA charges which followed the
game in August 2009. They are alleged to have taken insufficient action to
stop missile throwing and violent, threatening and racist behaviour at Upton
Park. West Ham are also accused of failing to prevent their fans invading
the pitch. The FA has convened a disciplinary hearing where an independent
three-man panel, chaired by a QC, will consider evidence. A verdict will be
announced on Friday at the earliest, with the possibility of a decision
being adjourned until next week. Wide-ranging sanctions are available,
although it is thought a heavy fine or suspended sentence would be most
likely if either club is found guilty of any charge.
The Hammers face four charges, while Millwall must answer three.
Both clubs face charges of failing to ensure their fans refrained from:

- Violent, threatening, obscene and provocative behaviour

- Racist behaviour

- Throwing missiles, harmful or dangerous objects on to the pitch

West Ham are also charged with failing to ensure their supporters did not
enter the field of play.

A Millwall supporter was stabbed as fans clashed outside the east London
ground and pitch invasions by West Ham fans followed each of their side's
goals in the 3-1 extra-time win. More than 20 people have been charged in
connection with disorder inside and outside the ground. Nine of those
pleaded guilty at Stratford Magistrates' Court in November to charges
including pitch invasion, violent disorder and criminal damage. Sentences
ranged from £150 fines to three-year bans from football games. Another 13
people are due to appear in court in January. West Ham's Carlton Cole and
Millwall's Jason Price alleged they were racially abused by supporters at
the match. Millwall chief executive Andy Ambler has said he considers the
charges to be unjustified, and brought in barrister Jim Sturman QC to draft
their defence. "We will be pleading not guilty to all charges and defending
our position vigorously," said Ambler. "It is a frustration to us that we
are committing significant resources of time, energy and money towards
having to defend ourselves in the face of these charges."
A total of 200 seats and a toilet block in the visiting supporters' section
of the ground were understood to have been damaged. When the charges were
announced on 28 September, Millwall said they were "shocked and
disappointed". "It was widely acknowledged that none of our supporters came
on to the pitch and indeed the behaviour and forbearance of our fans brought
praise from media observers on the night," said a club statement. "Our
question for the Football Association is what can Millwall Football Club do
to control individuals' actions once inside our opponents' stadium?"
West Ham also maintain they did as much as they could prior to the fixture.
"We do acknowledge the appalling behaviour of a minority of fans inside the
stadium and, in conjunction with police, will continue to take strong and
appropriate action against anyone found responsible," said a Hammers
spokesman. An FA statement alleged the clubs did not ensure their supporters
conducted themselves in an orderly fashion "in and around the ground".
Police say the 44-year-old Millwall supporter who was stabbed did not suffer
life-threatening injuries. Hundreds of supporters were thought to have
turned up for the game without tickets. It was the first time the east
London rivals had played each other since April 2005. Eyewitness reports
suggested opposing fans threw bottles and bricks at each other and started
small fires as police moved in to try to quell the disturbances outside the
ground. Inside the stadium, police and stewards battled to remove fans from
the pitch throughout the match.

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Kovac end International Career
BBC.co.uk

West Ham's Czech Republic midfielder Radoslav Kovac has announced he is
retiring from international football to concentrate on his club commitments.
The 30-year-old scored two goals in 30 matches for the Czech Republic and
played at the 2006 World Cup and 2008 European Championship. Kovac joined
the Hammers from Spartak Moscow on loan in January 2008 and signed a
permanent deal in August. The Czech Republic failed to qualify for the 2010
World Cup in South Africa. Versatile Kovac, who can play in central
midfield or defence, has scored once in 11 Premier League appearances for
West Ham this season. His side are one place above the relegation zone with
18 points from 20 matches.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola's options boosted
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 6th January 2010
By: Staff Writer

Gianfranco Zola's injury woes have eased somewhat with the news that West
Ham can expect five players back for this weekend's Premier League clash
with Wolves. Zola, whose threadbare squad were narrowly beaten by Arsenal on
Sunday in the third round of the FA Cup welcomes back a string of players
for one of a series of 'six pointers' in the coming weeks. Scott Parker
(hamstring), Mark Noble (hamstring), Guillermo Franco (suspended), Jack
Collison (rested) and Jonathan Spector (rested) should all be available for
Sunday lunchtime's clash with fellow strugglers Wolves, who have recorded
just one win on their travels in the league since August (at Tottenham).
Still out however are Herita Ilunga, Carlton Cole, Kieron Dyer and Danny
Gabbidon (all hamstring strains) plus Zavon Hines, along with long term
injuries such as Calum Davenport and Luis Boa Morte - although all except
Hines and the long-termers are expected to be back by the beginning of
February. One positive to emerge as a result of the injury list was the
performance of young full-back Fabio Daprela, who impressed during his debut
against Arsenal last weekend. The 18-year-old defender is understandably
eager for more, and has given Zola a real dilemma ahead of the visit of
Wolves. Talking to whufc.com, he said: "Maybe I'll play against Wolves; I
don't know what the manager's decision will be. My hope is to impress him in
training and [that] he will pick me again."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kovac quits Czechs
Midfielder wants to focus solely on Hammers
By Richard Bailey Last updated: 6th January 2010
SSN

Radoslav Kovac has quit international football with Czech Republic to focus
all his attention on helping West Ham survive the drop. The 30-year-old
amassed 30 caps for his country, appearing in the 2006 World Cup and 2008
European Championship along the way. The midfielder has featured on a
regular basis for the Hammers this term making 15 appearances, 11 of them
starts in the Premier League. However Gianfranco Zola's side currently sit
perilously close to the relegation places and Kovac wants to put all his
effort into helping the club preserve their Premier League status. "I want
to concentrate on the English league," he told the Daily Mail. "Now at West
Ham we have an ambitious project. It has been a long and beautiful
experience. "I've played at the World Cup and the European Championship,
winning with the youth team (in the 2002 U21 European Championship). "I'm
over 30 so I decided to quit."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Report: Three-Way Bidding War For West Ham United
Jan 7, 2010 6:45:38 AM
Goal.com

A three-way bidding war is set to take place for the takeover of West Ham
United, according to The Sun. An Intermarket group led by an American has
reportedly placed a £100 million bid with Rothschild - the bankers who will
deal with any potential suitors for a buy-out - with a view to quickly
bringing an end to the uncertainty surrounding the club.
The aforementioned sum is believed to have toppled the bid made by
prospective buyers - and former Birmingham City owners - David Gold and
David Sullivan. Meanwhile, another bid to buy the club is expected to arrive
on Monday, with airline tycoon Tony Fernandes - who is a well known fan of
the Hammers - tipped to lodge a bid after watching the relegation dogfight
against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday. Fernandes has declared in the
past that the financial state of the club was preventing him from a buy-out,
maintaining that his attention was turned toward taking over new Formula One
team Lotus sometime this year. However, the Malaysian has continued to be
linked as a potential buyer for the financially brittle London club. The
Intermarket group has assured manager Gianfranco Zola that he will be handed
transfer funds - in addition to ensuring that none of his important players
leave - should its bid be successful.

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WEST HAM MOVE FOR ADRIAN MUTU
ABOVE: Adrian Mutu 7th January 2010 By Sami Mokbel
The Star

WEST HAM believe they can wrap up the signing of controversial striker
Adrian Mutu early next week. The Hammers want the disgraced former Chelsea
star, 30, to help them stave off relegation to the ­Championship. And they
are close to agreeing the loan move with Fiorentina and hope he will be
available for the trip to Aston Villa on January 17.
Gianfranco Zola wants his former Stamford Bridge team-mate to provide goals.
And Mutu is ready to make a return to the Premier League. The Romanian
striker left Chelsea with his ­reputation in tatters when he was sacked for
cocaine use in October 2004. Chelsea then sued Mutu, who was ordered to pay
£13.8m in compensation to the club. Since then he has enjoyed largely
uneventful spells in Italy with Juventus and Fiorentina, but Hammers boss
Zola now wants him. Hammers sporting director Gianluca Nani originally
distanced himself from reports the club were tracking Mutu. But Starsport
­understands he could arrive in London next week, in time to make his debut
at Villa Park.

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Agent: Gudjohnsen is looking into Monaco exit
Sport.co.uk
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on:06 January 2010 - 14:49

Sport.co.uk can confirm that former Chelsea and Bolton Wanderers star Eidur
Gudjohnsen is considering his options at French club Monaco, however reports
of interest from Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham are untrue. Gudjohnsen's
agent Arnor Gudjohnsen informed Sport.co.uk that there was no truth in the
links with Spurs and the Hammers but that Eidur was considering his future
in France. West Ham have been linked with a move for Gudjohnsen since last
summer when the Icelandic international was considering his options at
Spanish giants Barcelona. Tottenham Hotspur manager Harry Redknapp is also a
known admirer of the hit-man having enquired about the player's availability
while he was in charge at Portsmouth. Managerless Bolton Wanderers were
also linked with a move for their former striker when former manager Gary
Megson was in charge. It is not known whether Bolton are currently
officially interested in the Stamford Bride legend.
Eidur Gudjohnsen's agent, his father Arnor Gudjohnsen told Sport.co.uk in an
exclusive interview that his client is considering his future at French
Ligue 1 club Monaco, however the reports of a move to Tottenham Hotspur and
West Ham are untrue. He told Sport.co.uk: "There is no truth in the reports.
I have not been contacted by anybody. He is having a big think about his
future at the club. A January transfer is something he is looking into at
this moment in time but he has no particular club in mind. He is having a
long think." "He is talking to officials at Monaco and will make a decision
in the near future. But he is in no rush to decide his future." Gudjohnsen's
father responded negatively when asked if a return to Bolton Wanderers was a
possibility in the January window: "No, I don't think so."

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Tottenham Hotspur And West Ham United Look To Bring Eidur Gudjohnsen Back To
Premier League - Report
The duo are looking to bring the former Chelsea man back to England...
Jan 6, 2010 11:47:29 AM

London rivals Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United could be involved in a
transfer tug-of-war over Icelandic forward Eidur Gudjohnsen, according to a
report in French journal L'Equipe. The forward, formerly of Barcelona, has
failed to make the desired impact in France with Ligue 1 side Monaco, and
has struggled to impress in his previous six outings. Gudjohnsen, 31, has
Premier League experience having represented both Bolton Wanderers and
Chelsea, and Spurs and the Hammers are looking to bring in a bit of added
experience in order to aid their respective seasons. The north Londoners aim
to push for a European place, while the East Enders hope to ward off a
relegation threat. L'Equipe adds that should Tottenham fail in their efforts
to secure the services of Gudjohnsen, then they will ressurect their
interest in Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Either Van Nistelrooy or Gudjohnsen could be deemed a replacement for
Russian striker Roman Pavlyuchenko, who has struggled to assert himself at
White Hart Lane under Harry Redknapp. Gianfranco Zola, meanwhile, may be
tasked with the challenge of convincing towering forward Carlton Cole that
his future lies at Upton Park, as the Englishman is alleged to be on Arsenal
manager Arsene Wenger's radar.

Goal.com UK

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger set to table £9m bid for West Ham's Carlton
Cole
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 4:50 PM on 06th January 2010
Daily Mail

Arsenal are poised to table an offer for West Ham star Carlton Cole as
manager Arsene Wenger looks to ease the club's striking crisis. However,
according to The Sun, the Frenchman is only prepared to splash the £9million
demanded by the cash-strapped Hammers, should long-term absentee Nicklas
Bentnder fail a Friday fitness test. The Denmark international has been out
of action for over two months, after picking up a recurrence of a groin
injury during the Gunners 3-0 win over north-London rivals Tottenham at the
Emirates in October. Wenger hopes to have the 21-year-old available for
selection later this month. But Bendtner's return from injury has been
blighted by a serious of problems and Wenger admits he will be forced into
the transfer market, should any further complications delay his comeback.
'There is no way we can carry on with only one striker,' said the Arsenal
boss.'Bendtner is being treated now and will come back on Friday for tests.
If he is out for another two months, we will need to buy someone,
absolutely.'
Andrey Arshavin has been deployed as an emergency striker following the
season-long injury picked up by Robin van Persie, while he was on
international duty back in November. West Ham's Cole has himself been out of
action for over a month with a knee injury but manager Gianfranco Zola
revealed earlier this week that his star hitman was close to a return.
Unlike other potential targets Cole would be available to play in the latter
stages of the Champions League and crisis club West Ham would not stand in
the way of a switch to the Emirates Stadium, providing the Gunners meet
their £9milllion valuation. And Wenger did little to play down the
speculation saying: 'There is a 50-50 chance we'll sign somebody. Even if
Bendtner is OK we will look around and if we find a good bargain we will
still do it.'

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Hull City and West Ham want Aston Villa striker Marlon Harewood on
season-long loan
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 10:08 AM on 07th January 2010
Daily Mail

Hull City and West Ham will battle it out to take Aston Villa's
out-of-favour striker Marlon Harewood on loan for the remainder of the
season. Phil Brown, the Hull manager, wanted Harewood at the KC Stadium last
summer but the former Hammers marksman joined Newcastle on loan instead,
scoring six goals in 15 matches. Villa would not stand in Harewood's way
and Phil Sproson, the player's agent, said: 'I have spoken to both Phil and
Gianfranco [Zola] and both said they were interested in Marlon if they can
get the deals sorted at their clubs. 'Phil said he is still interested in
Marlon and that he has watched him a couple of times recently. He said that
he had been impressed that Marlon has clearly got the bit between his teeth
again, but he said he had to get two or three players out before he could
bring anyone in. 'That is where we left it and it is a similar situation
with West Ham.'

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