Grant acknowledges Arsenal strength
WHUFC.com
The manager knew his side had come up against tough opposition as their
Boleyn unbeaten run ended
16.01.2011
Avram Grant reflected on a difficult derby day that saw his team's fine
sequence of three straight home wins halted by an imperious title-chasing
Arsenal side. Just as Arsene Wenger's side had done in their previous
Barclays Premier League awayday against Birmingham City on New Year's Day,
they scored three unanswered goals and thoroughly deserved the victory.
Grant was without midfielder Scott Parker to an ankle injury and also
forwards Victor Obinna (suspension) and Frederic Piquionne (dental surgery)
but did not dwell on such complications. "Arsenal are a good team, they
played well," he said, after Robin van Persie's double either side of Theo
Walcott's strike settled the Saturday evening contest. "It is not a secret.
But I am delighted with the effort of my players. We were without five
first-choice midfielders and then Mark Noble [calf] was injured during the
game. "The effort was good and we also had a few chances to score in the
first half. People were out of position and we had two or three young
players. Even though we lost we can say some positive things. It was very
difficult to play against Arsenal, they have won games by big margins
including against Chelsea. "
Grant, who fielded eight Englishman in his starting eleven including
debutant Wayne Bridge - his sixth different left-back of the season - felt
his team could have made it a different story if they were at full strength
and not up against an Arsenal side boasting all of their main front five.
"Today, if we had all our team it could have been different. It was
difficult, especially against Arsenal. We did well against other teams
around us in these circumstances but when you play the top teams you need
your top players."
The manager brushed aside questions about his future with the team still in
last place and instead wanted to focus the attention where he felt it was
most deserved. "The first commitment needs to be the supporters," he said.
"They were great for us. When I see the crowd and how they behave, I have to
give my thanks back. They are always behind the team and I give them my
respect."
The Hammers head to Everton next Saturday still only a win away from moving
level on points with the team in 15th looking to get back to the form that
had garnered four wins and two draws from the previous seven matches.
Indeed, depending on the Merseyside derby on Sunday, a win at Goodison Park
could leave them just two points behind their hosts, who currently sit in
12th spot.
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Avram Grant left in limbo after defeat
BBC.co.uk
Bottom-of-the-table West Ham insist no announcement will be made about the
future of under-pressure manager Avram Grant on Saturday. BBC Sport
understands Martin O'Neill is being lined up to replace the Israeli, who
took charge of West Ham for the visit of Arsenal at Upton Park. The Gunners
went on to inflict a 3-0 defeat on the home side in that match. It was only
West Ham's second loss in eight games but Grant looked disconsolate as he
left the pitch. The 55-year-old Israeli applauded fans as he departed and
threw his claret and blue scarf into the crowd before heading down the
tunnel at Upton Park. O'Neill, 58, quit Aston Villa out of the blue on the
eve of this season. "O'Neill and West Ham have been in talks over the last
week and it seems he will be the new manager," said BBC sports news
correspondent Dan Roan. "There was a board meeting on Wednesday after which
club owners David Sullivan and David Gold refused to publicly back their man
and it seems a decision has been taken and this will be Grant's last match
in charge."
Grant, who succeeded Gianfranco Zola in June, led the Hammers to their worst
start in the Premier League, with his side winning only two games before the
end of November. However, recent positive results, including a 2-1 victory
against Birmingham in the first leg of their Carling Cup semi-final on
Tuesday, suggested he might have won a reprieve. On Friday, Grant declared
himself unworried by speculation concerning his future at the club. "It
doesn't concern me. I have a job here and I have to focus on that. I love
the vision of the club. It's a big, big challenge," the West Ham manager
stated.
"We have made progress on the football side. We are at the bottom but we are
not worse than any of the seven teams down there. "We are two points from
14th place. I think we are doing the right things. I don't think we will be
bottom at the end of the season. If I thought that I wouldn't be here."
The gap between 14th and bottom widened to five points following the
emphatic defeat at the hands of Arsenal on Saturday. A Robin van Persie
brace and goal from Theo Walcott secured all three points for high-flying
Arsenal and for the Dutch striker Van Persie, the game was a clear return to
form. It was a game to forget for on-loan defender Wayne Bridge, however,
who was making his debut since signing for Grant's side from Manchester
City. The former Chelsea defender, who limped off in the 89th minute, was at
fault for all three goals - the last of which was a Van Persie penalty
conceded after Bridge had fouled Walcott in the area. Speaking ahead of the
game, BBC Sport's Jonathan Pearce told Football Focus that West Ham and
Grant had held talks on Thursday. Pearce said: "I did speak to another club
source - very, very close to Avram Grant - who says events took place on
Thursday night where a deal was struck with Avram. "It does seem that Martin
O'Neill is the man who is going to West Ham - which is a surprise. How
unseemly a mess is this for a club with the tradition of West Ham United?"
Pearce also suggested that O'Neill would be a popular choice with
supporters. "When Avram Grant was appointed West Ham had money issues and he
wouldn't have been the most expensive option," Pearce added. "Martin O'Neill
is a manager with a higher pedigree in terms of success in Scotland and in
England and might well have been waiting for higher jobs to come. "He is
charismatic, he's a cheerleader, he does have that proven record and would
have high hopes of keeping West Ham in the Premier League."
Northern Irishman O'Neill made his name as a manager at Wycombe Wanderers,
leading them into the Football League for the first time. He had a short
spell at Norwich before landing the top job at Leicester in 1995, where he
won the League Cup twice. O'Neill then went to Celtic, where he won the
domestic treble in his first season, leading them to the 2003 Uefa Cup final
and winning three League titles and three Scottish Cups in total. After a
brief period out of the sport to care for his sick wife, he joined Villa in
2006, guiding the Midlands club to sixth in the Premiership for three
seasons running.
However, he resigned in August 2010, five days before the start of the new
season, reportedly unhappy with the transfer funds available. "The
understanding from sources close to him is that he's not finished with
football and he still believes he has the desire and hunger it takes to
manage at the top level," Roan continued. "I wouldn't be surprised if West
Ham offered him some kind of short-term contract, perhaps a six-month deal -
highly incentivised - to ensure that they do survive."
O'Neill is not the only high-profile name to have been linked with the job
at Upton Park with former Ajax and Tottenham manager Martin Jol also
mentioned as a possible successor to Grant. Jol, who was in charge at Spurs
between 2004 and 2007, quit as boss of Dutch side Ajax in December 2010.
Former Bolton and Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce, who was sacked by Blackburn
Rovers in December, has been linked with the role.
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Grant on... Arsenal
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 16th January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Avram Grant faces a barrage of questions regarding his future from the
assembled pack in tonight's full, unedited post-match press conference...
[Opening question from SkySports] Avram: you'll have been aware of all the
reports throughout the day. Was that your last game as West Ham manager?
Why do you ask me this question?
Because the reports throughout the day have been that this would be your
last game and Martin O'Neill would be lined up to replace you.
Where were the reports?
Various outlets...
On your TV [station]?
Yes.
So you know who gave you the rumours? Ask the person. Why do you ask me?
As far as you're concerned then, is it business as usual? You expect to be
coming back here Monday morning as West Ham manager?
I think you need to ask someone who gave you the rumours. I don't understand
why you're asking me. When I will give you something, ask me.
Have you asked about the rumours of your owners then?
I say to you again, you need to ask the person who gave you the rumours. I
don't understand why you ask me.
They continue to come out; the reports are said to come from a source within
the club. Have you gone to anyone to seek assurances about your future?
I don't know why you're asking me, really. You say a source gave you this -
ask the source. You can ask me about things that concern the team.
You're still the manager then, Avram?
I'm speaking with you now, no?
It was quite symbolic that you threw your scarf into the crowd; why did you
do that?
If you were awake you would have seen that I've done it every time in the
last [few] games. I always throw my scarf to the children that are there.
I must say today that it was more emotional because to see the supporters
and their reaction after the game was three-zero, it was so supportive. I
cannot say that it wasn't touching to see this. So I did what I did but with
the scarf I did it also after the games before, including [last] Tuesday.
A pretty unusual afternoon; a 3-0 defeat against Arsenal when you're bottom
of the Premier League table - and time is running out for the club in the
Premier League - to do something like that?
I think you need to respect the supporters. When you see so many supporters
stay after the game and support the club you need to respect them.
What's it like for you personally to be the subject of all this speculation?
Look, I live my life to do my job. I have a job to do here. I cannot say
that it's helped, I'll be honest with you - but still I need to do my job
and that's what's important. You didn't ask me more than one question until
now about the game. The game is what's most important.
But you can understand it, I mean...
[interrupts] Yeah I understand, I fully understand.
Because it's a results business, you're bottom of the league - it happens to
every manager, not just you. We've seen, in the last couple of weeks, loads
of managers lose their jobs becasue of results. Are you concerned?
I have my opinion if it's happened to other managers more or less in our
position in the Premier League. I understand your questions, but you cannot
ask me a question when someone has given you some information and you ask me
this... I don't understand. You can ask me only about information that I
give you.
Okay...
And the only thing I can give you that I'm very happy with the boys today,
there's not many times when you lose you're happy. We played without so many
players, especially in midfield where all our first choice - even some
second choice - didn't play. The players who played instead played against a
very good team. [They] gave everything and the effort was good against
Arsenal, who are a very good side. We almost scored two goals in the first
half so I think the effort was great from the players and that's important
for me.
Have you asked the directors if they are speaking to potential managers to
replace you?
I'm doing my job, I'm not asking questions.
Do you still expect to be here on Monday morning then?
[PA] I think we're asking the same questions over and over here.
Avram I must ask you - have you ever been tempted to resign becasue of the
way you've been treated?
When I'm at a club like West Ham - and you know what's happened in the last
year also - you know that the club is not in a good situation and my job is
to go in a [positive] direction and make the club better. Even though we are
bottom, if you look [at] what we've done in the last three weeks and before,
I think we are doing the right things.
But the most important thing is the football - and for football we need a
squad. We have a lot of injuries; you saw that two or three players that
were on the bench today were youngsters; three others only trained one day,
like Benni McCarthy, in the last month. My opinion is that even with this
situation we are very close to escaping from [the] relegation [zone] - but
for this we need a squad.
Unfortunately our squad is a squad that has a lot of injuries, again and
again - and we're finding it very difficult. This is the reason why I wanted
a midfield player and this is the reason why we want one more striker
because we only had two in the squad [today]. i'm busy only with this, not
with other things.
If you look back at your period in charge, how would you assess your own
performance? Do you think you've underachieved?
I think if you look, there are seven teams more or less in our position,
let's say two or three points... It's not a big difference. I think we're
dealing with a big, big problem and I think when we can make things right on
and off the pitch it will also give us more points - and that's what's
important. I think we've been dealing with it very well and even though we
are bottom [of the league] we are not a team that plays like it's bottom. We
play better.
You talked about needing to strengthen your squad. With that i mind do you
expect to be going back to the owners on Monday, or over the next couple of
days, with your ideas of who you'd like to bring in?
I think they know my ideas and they are trying. We've brought Wayne Bridge
[in], we are dealing with a lot. Some players - like Sidwell who I wanted in
very much and could have played today in midfield - we couldn't do. So we
are dealing with it and we are trying to do it because I feel, even today
against Arsenal, if we had everybody [available] it would have been easier.
You say you need a midfield player and you mention Steve Sidwell. Karren
Brady said you don't, so how do you get around that?
[sighs loudly] You ask me... I will not answer questions about other people
because I speak with the owners and they are trying to deal with this
situation, we're trying to bring players in. But I will not speak about
other things. Sorry.
What's the injury situation with Wayne Bridge and Mark Noble?
I don't know yet, we need to wait and see. Mark Noble has played a lot of
games after his [recent] injury and it's affected him a little bit. He's a
very good player and he did well for us - also on Tuesday. Wayne Bridge
hasn't played for a long time so we need to see how he is.
How do you think Wayne did today? He had a troubled time, didn't he?
It wasn't easy to play today against Arsenal and everybody tried their best.
Everybody gave 100 per cent, including Wayne.
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West Ham Utd 0 Arsenal 3
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 15th January 2011
By: Staff Writer
West Ham suffered a second successive heavy Premier League defeat - on a day
when on-field proceedings were overshadowed by speculation surrounding the
future of manager Avram Grant.
Since news of Grant's impending departure broke in the early hours of the
morning - via a club 'source', who claimed that the Israeli will depart the
club within 48 hours - all the pre-match talk had been of Grant's exit and
the purported arrival of Martin O'Neill, rather than today's visitors
Arsenal.
Whilst the game appeared to be on the periphery of supporters' pre-match
thoughts, so it appeared to pass many of West Ham's players by as they
failed to come to terms with the title challengers who strolled to victory
through goals from Van Persie (2) and Theo Walcott.
Never at the races, United fell behind as early as the 13th minute when
Robin van Persie's precision finish did enough to evade Rob Green's
depairing dive. That lead was double four minutes ahead of the break when
van Persie beat West Ham's offside trap before centreing the ball for
Walcott, who took maximum advantage of debutant Wayne Bridge's slip to
convert from a matter of yards.
Arsenal continued to dominate the game in the second half against a virtual
West Ham second string and the only surprise was that the third goal took so
long to arrive. It was further bad news for loanee Bridge who was penalised
for giving away a totally unnecessary penalty when felling Walcott on the
edge of the box as the youngster was moving away from goal; the spot kick
well converted by Man of the Match van Persie.
West Ham's best chance of the game - one of few efforts - fell to Carlton
Cole who was perfectly placed to meet Freddie Sears' excellent cross from
the left as United sought to profit from a rare counter-attack four minutes
ahead of the half-time break. However Cole failed to meet the ball properly
and could only head against a defender who deflected the ball out for a
corner.
The defeat leaves the Hammers in deep trouble at the foot of the table with
a trip to Everton to follow - a place where the club have traditionally
fared poorly.
Whether it will be Avram Grant, Martin O'Neill or someone else altogether in
charge of first team affairs remains to be seen.
West Ham Utd 0 Arsenal 3: match facts
West Ham Utd: Green, Upson, Spector, Bridge (Nouble 89), Faubert, Tomkins,
Kovac, Noble (Boa Morte 20), Cole, Sears (Barrera 64), Hines.
Subs not used: Boffin, Gabbidon, Reid, McCarthy.
Booked: Faubert (15).
Arsenal: Szczesny, Clichy, Djourou, Koscielny, Fabregas (Denilson 81),
Eboue, Walcott (Arshavin 88), Song, Nasri (Gibbs 88), Wilshere, van Persie.
Subs not used: Shea, Chamakh, Bendtner, Vela.
Referee: Andre Marriner (4).
Attendance: tbc.
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Grant latest
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 15th January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Avram Grant has refused to confirm whether he will remain in charge of West
Ham United after this weekend. Speaking after the 0-3 home defeat againt
Arsenal tonight Grant, in response to a question asking whether his
departure was imminent, said: "I'm speaking with you now, no? "I don't know
why you're asking me. You say a source gave you this [information] - ask the
source. You can ask me about things that concern the team."
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Hammers still Keane on Robbie
West Ham plan new move for Blues target
Last updated: 15th January 2011
SSN
West Ham could hijack Birmingham's move for Tottenham striker Robbie Keane,
skysports.com understands. Birmingham are in pole position to sign
Keaneafter agreeing a fee in the region of £6million with Spurs for the
Republic of Irelandinternational. However, West Ham are refusing to give up
their pursuit of Keane after seeing a loan bid rejected by Spurs with Harry
Redknapp preferring a permanent deal for the former Wolves and Liverpool
man.
West Ham are now thought to be ready to make a permanent offer for Keane as
they look to win the race for the striker's services Keane is thought to be
reluctant to leave London and West Ham are hoping this could boost their
chances of luring the 30-year-old to Upton Park. Despite doubts over Avram
Grant's future at West Ham, the club are ready to push forward with a move
for Keane with managerial target Martin O'Neill thought to be keen on
bringing in the forward if he does take charge.
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Grant remains defiant
Boss refuses to confirm exit talk
Last updated: 15th January 2011
SSN
Avram Grant has vowed to fight on as West Ham manager but Sky Sports sources
understand he is set to be replaced by Martin O'Neill. A Robin van Persie
double and a goal from Theo Walcott saw Arsenal comfortably win 3-0 at Upton
Park on Saturday and heap more pressure on the beleaguered boss.
Sources had told Sky Sports prior to kick-off that Grant was to be sacked
this weekend, with former Aston Villa manager O'Neill taking his place. But
the Israeli remained defiant in his post-match comments and refused to get
involved with the speculation. When asked if that was his last game as
Hammers boss, he told Sky Sports News: "Why do you ask me this question?
Where was these reports (concerning O'Neill)? "You know who gave you the
rumours. Ask the person, not ask me. "When I will give you something, ask
me."
Scarf
The Israeli shook hands with his players as they left the pitch, before
applauding the fans and throwing his lucky claret and blue scarf into the
stands.
But he maintained: "I have done this at the last few games, throw my scarf
to the children who are there. "Today it was emotional to see the reaction
of the supporters after the game, we had lost 3-0 and they were so
supportive. "It was touching to see this, so I did what I did. You need to
respect the supporters, that is what I did."
The beleaguered boss vowed to continue in his position until told otherwise.
He said: "I live my life to do my job, but I cannot say it has helped.
Still, I need to do my job, that is what is important. "I understand, but
there has not been one question about the game.
Very happy
"You can ask me only about information I give you, and what I can say is I
am very happy with the boys today. "It is not often when you lose that you
are happy, but we were without so many players and against a very good team,
they gave everything. "The effort was great from the players, and that was
important for me." Grant added: "You know what has happened at the club, it
was not at a good situation and it is my job to make the club better. "Even
though we are at the bottom, what we have done in the last few weeks is the
right things. "We have a lot of injuries, but still we are close to escape
from relegation. "There is not a lot of difference in the points at the
bottom. "When we can do things right on and off the pitch, it will give us
more points and that is what is important."
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Gunners hammer Grant hopes
Van Persie brace and Walcott effort put boss under more pressure
Last updated: 15th January 2011
SSN
Man of the match: Jack Wilshere was all over the pitch for the visitors and
played a major role in ensuring another three-point haul on the road for
Arsenal.
Moment of the match: Wojciech Szczesny made a fine block to keep out an
effort from Carlton Cole with the score still at 1-0. A goal then may have
given the Hammers a springboard in the game.
Attempt of the match: Robert Green got down low to his left to deny Wilshere
a deserved goal in the final minute of the match.
Save of the match: As above - Szczesny's from Cole.
Talking point: Surely this result will spell the end for West Ham boss Avram
Grant. It is time to go it seems, especially judging by his body language
after the game.
Goal of the match: The opening goal was typical Arsenal. Theo Walcott
crossed, Samir Nasri dummied and Robin van Persie finished with aplomb.
Arsenal look to have inflicted the final hammer blow to Avram Grant's hopes
of keeping his West Ham job with a comfortable 3-0 win at Upton Park.
Reports prior to kick-off suggested Grant is set to be replaced by Martin
O'Neill at the top flight's bottom club, although others claimed the
beleaguered boss could have won a reprieve with a win. But Robin van Persie
notched the opener on 13 minutes before Theo Walcott got to the Dutchman's
cross ahead of new signing Wayne Bridge, making his debut on loan from
Manchester City, to add a second four minutes before the interval. Bridge,
looking short of match fitness, then brought down Walcott for a penalty,
with Van Persie dispatching the spot-kick on 77 minutes to deal a
potentially fatal blow to Grant's short tenure, while also keping alive the
Gunners' hopes of a first title since 2004. Despite guiding the east London
club into the semi-finals of the Carling Cup, where they beat Birmingham at
Upton Park in midweek to move within 90 minutes of Wembley, the patience of
owners David Gold and David Sullivan - who only appointed Grant during the
summer - appears to have run out. While the club were officially making no
comment, Grant's public spat with vice-chairman Karren Brady over the
collapse of Steve Sidwell's proposed transfer having appeared to have
brought matters to a head.
Arsenal, meanwhile, finally produced a complete passing display to bounce
back from the disappointment of their midweek cup defeat at Ipswich as they
remain very much in the hunt for the title. All cameras were trained on
Grant as, after a quick exchange of words and handshake with Gunners boss
Arsene Wenger, he took to the home dugout for what could well be the last
time.
Irony
There was some sense of irony that Grant's likely departure came at a time
when West Ham were actually showing some form, having lost just once in
their previous seven games. Nevertheless, the Irons remain bottom and they
fell behind on 13 minutes when Samir Nasri, back in the starting XI,
produced a clever step over from Walcott's cross - which Van Persie
despatched into the right corner from 12 yards. Irons full-back Julien
Faubert was then yellow carded by referee Andre Marriner after jumping in
two-footed on Fabregas out on the far touchline, which left Wenger less than
impressed. Walcott shot tamely at goalkeeper Robert Green before West Ham
replaced Mark Noble, who had just come back from a spell on the sidelines
after a hip problem, with former Gunner Luis Boa Morte. There was a let-off
for Arsenal when Johan Djourou's backpass was too short and Carlton Cole
darted in on goal - but stand-in keeper Wojciech Szczesny made a fine block
and Hines smashed the rebound over from a tight angle.
Van Persie was within inches of making it 2-0 when Arsenal broke quickly
through Nasri and his first-time pass into the left of the penalty area was
crashed against the base of the upright by the Dutchman. West Ham were in
danger of being overrun and they doubled the Gunners' lead four minutes
before the break. Van Persie latched onto Fabregas' ball down the left side
of the box, which the Dutchman pulled back from the goalline to the centre,
where Walcott crashed it into the roof of the net.
Sacked chants
Chants of 'You're getting sacked in an hour' rang out from the away end as
Grant stood at the edge of his technical area, hands in pockets. It was more
one-way traffic at the start of the second half, Van Persie testing Green at
his near post and then firing over from 20 yards. However, Szczesny had to
be alert to tip away Freddie Sears' angled drive, which looked set for the
top corner after a quick break. Bridge tripped Walcott as the England winger
nipped into the penalty area. Marriner pointed to the spot on 77 minutes and
Van Persie slotted the ball into the bottom left corner. Irons fans had seen
enough, hundreds leaving for the exits, with Grant probably soon to follow.
At the final whistle the Israeli shook hands with his players as they left
the pitch, before applauding the fans and throwing his lucky claret and blue
scarf into the stands in what appeared to be a farewell gesture.
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I Av still got my job
The Sun
Published: Today
AVRAM GRANT was still clinging on to his job as West Ham boss despite a 3-0
thumping against Arsenal. Grant laughed off rumours that he was set to be
axed straight after the game by turning out for the post-match press
conference. Asked whether he was still in charge, the dour Israeli managed a
smile as he replied: "I am speaking with you now..." Martin O'Neill is
reportedly ready to take over the reins at Upton Park. And Grant went on the
defensive as he was pressed on his future. He said: "Why do you ask me this
question? Where were these reports? "You know who gave you the rumours. Ask
the person, not me, ask the source" West Ham were torn apart by a rampant
Arsenal, who saw Theo Walcott net in-between Robin van Persie's double. And
despite being given the runaround, Grant insisted he was pleased by what he
saw. He said: "It is not often when you lose that you are happy. But we were
without so many players and against a very good team, they gave everything.
"The effort was great from the players and that was important for me. "Even
though we are at the bottom, what we have done in the last few weeks is the
right things. "We have a lot of injuries but still we are close to escape
from relegation. "There is not a lot of difference in the points at the
bottom. "When we can do things right on and off the pitch, it will give us
more points and that is what is important."
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Grant heading out, but chief target O'Neill is "embarrassed" by Hammers link
Published 23:00 15/01/11 By Jim Hughes
The Mirror
Avram Grant looked a broken man as he unfastened his lucky claret and blue
scarf, threw it into the crowd and waved goodbye at the end of this
devastating defeat. The gesture suggested he knew he was signing off as West
Ham manager after just seven and half months in charge at Upton Park.
His last remaining hope from the four-year deal he signed last June might be
that his compensation clause is honoured. Irrespective of Arsenal's victory,
Grant's position at West Ham appeared untenable. Even by the lowest
standards of Premier League skulduggery events around Upton Park yesterday
took some beating. Grant wasn't just a dead man walking. According to some
news outlets his passing could be printed in football's obituary columns.
How the Israeli could be expected to prepare his injury-ravaged team to take
on Arsenal in such a critical derby with the backdrop of leaks must surely
reflect badly on those inside West Ham who want to see a change in manager.
The briefing that Grant would not survive the day was categoric. But instead
of issuing a total, irrefutable denial the club preferred to suggest
nothing was about to change.
The Hammers' cause wasn't helped by the nightmare debut endured by £90,000
a-week loan recruit Wayne Bridge. Lacking match practice, he looked slow and
cumbersome throughout and was at fault for Arsenal's second and third goals.
Robi van Persie scored twice and Theo Walcott exploited Bridge's lack of
match practice to score one goal and win a penalty that van Persie
converted. And there was another unsavoury spin-off for West Ham, too.
Martin O'Neill had been named as the man set to succeed Grant. O'Neill told
friends yesterday that he was deeply embarrassed by the way his name had
been linked with West Ham. He is a manager awaiting the job offer he can't
refuse and the fact that every betting exchange and bookies have seen a
deluge of wagers on the former Aston Villa boss suggests he will be
turning up at Upton Park soon as Grant's successor. But O'Neill doesn't like
this dishonourable game. Any attempt to discuss a potential vacancy has been
rejected by the Irishman. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said of his side's
win: "We started strong, remained strong and finished strong. "We're on a
good run of form in the Premier League and need to keep going. "It's a sign
of our away results that this team is maturing. "
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Piquionne opens the door to Villa move
Published 23:00 15/01/11 By Steve Goodman
The Mirror
West Ham striker Frederic Piquionne has opened the door to a move to Aston
Villa. Boss Gerard Houllier wants the seven-goal top scorer to boost Villa's
battle against relegation – having previously tried to sign the striker from
St Etienne during his time as Lyon coach. Piquionne said: "I don't see why I
should not join Houllier at Aston Villa. He is a highly-regarded coach in
France and England. "I read that there have been offers for me, but there is
nothing very definite yet. "I'm happy at West Ham, things are going
relatively well. I let my agents deal with the transfer market."
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West Ham 0-3 Arsenal: Sunday Mirror match report
Published 19:28 15/01/11 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror
Arsenal moved emphatically back into the Premier League title race with
ruthless efficiency. And with the ashen-faced look of a man nearing the end
of his reign as West Ham manager, Avram Grant could only watch as the threat
of relegation moved ever closer to a cruel reality. It took only 13 minutes
for the air of uncertainty at Upton Park to become an atmosphere of
frustration. All day the talk was about the future of Grant. Come Arsenal's
first attack of any venom and purpose and it was the future of the club that
was of more concern. All of the Hammers' passion and commitment counted
for nothing once the Gunners made their slick passing game count to positive
effect. Jack Wilshere was the man who initiated the opener as he supplied
the perfect pass for Theo Walcott. The England winger crossed low, Samir
Nasri produced a step-over that sent half the West Ham defence for a hot dog
and the other for a taxi. That left Robin van Persie with the opening to
send a crisp, right-foot shot past Robert Green.
Once again, Grant's men were reeling on their own patch — and Julien Faubert
decided to take it out on Cesc Fabregas. If the Spanish World Cup winner
thought Ipswich were guilty of rugby-style football in the Carling Cup then
he must put the tackle by Faubert on the quarter-hour mark in the
cage-fighting category. The wicked, late lunge of the defender brought a
yellow card from referee Andre Marriner and Faubert could not have
complained if the colour had been red. Walcott — on his 100th Premier
League appearance — could have added to the score in the 19th minute when
only a last-gasp lunge by James Tomkins left him unbalanced but it did get
worse for West Ham within a minute. Without Scott Parker, Grant was heavily
reliant on the dynamism of Mark Noble in central midfield but after 20
minutes, that asset was lost. Noble limped off — and with him went the
hosts' heartbeat. If they were to have a chance, the odds were on an Arsenal
mistake playing a key role. Cue Johan Djourou's dreadfully under-weighted
backpass in the 22nd minute. Carlton Cole was through and it needed an
excellent save from Wojciech Szczesny to deny him. The rebound broke to
Zavon Hines but his angled shot was both hasty and high.
The Gunners' threat was more measured and deliberate and it needed the post
to deny the superb Van Persie in the 32nd minute after he unleashed a
fearsome left-foot shot following Nasri's neat through ball. But there was
no such reprieve four minutes from half time. Fabregas was the architect
as he timed his ball to Van Persie to perfection and left the West Ham
defence's attempt to play offside a vain one. The Dutchman looked up,
spotted Walcott unmarked and the ball finished high in the net. The
visiting fans could not disguise their delight at Grant's plight. A chant of
"Sacked in the morning" was swiftly followed by "Sacked in an hour" as they
wallowed in his misery. There was more verve to West Ham's game in the
second half as they set about closing the deficit but it was Arsenal who
came closest to scoring on the hour when Van Persie's well-struck free-kick
was deflected for a corner.
But credit to West Ham, they refused to concede and the lively Freddie Sears
forced Szczesny into an athletic save in the 62nd minute. But for all their
guts and gumption, the class acts were in the yellow of Arsenal. The
apparent fatigue at Ipswich on Wednesday was replaced by an energy and
sharpness that had their opponents at full-stretch. And 15 minutes from time
came the blow that ended all hopes of a revival when Walcott was
unceremoniously dumped in the area by Wayne Bridge. This was no dive. And
this was no dream debut for Bridge at the start of his loan spell from
Manchester City. Instead, it was the third Arsenal goal as Van Persie — who
else? — strode forward purposefully to drill the ball past Robert Green.
Grant just watched with a blank expression, looking every inch the man who
knows that his time at Upton Park is coming to an end. He will not be
looking forward to opening his post this week — that P45 could well be on
its way.
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West Ham will get a charismatic, combustible and coveted manager in Martin
O'Neill
By Duncan White 11:00PM GMT 15 Jan 2011
Duncan's Twitter
Telegraph.co.uk
It is easy to see what West Ham value in Martin O'Neill. They have been
trying to seduce him into the job at Upton Park and appear, finally, to have
succeeded. He is an intense motivator of players and would raise the level
of performance quickly, something that is desperately needed at West Ham. He
does not rotate players but prefers to build a team that develop together.
He would tighten everything up and weed out those players that lack the
stomach for what is going to be necessary in the remaining 15 games. His
track record is impressive at several levels, whether in the emergence of
Wycombe Wanderers, getting Leicester City to punch above their weight, the
trophies at Celtic or the elevation of Aston Villa to European contenders.
His teams have not always been technically sophisticated but they have been
fast, direct and thrilling.
Upton Park retains one of the best atmospheres in the league and, with
O'Neill, jumping and barking from the technical area, you can see why he
would be such a coveted signing. In many respects he is old fashioned. He
believes in the integrity of the manager's job and, like the manager who had
the biggest influence on his career, Brian Clough, believes the authority of
the man in charge should not be subject to question. He is charismatic,
comfortable in front of a camera but, when committed to a job, he is
completely immersed in it and can be ruthless.
The trade-off with O'Neill's passion is that he is forthright in defining
what he wants at a club. He likes to be in control of his whole working
environment and, if successful, places demands on owners to back him in the
market. His success at Villa was sustained by substantial contracts and a
significant outlay in transfer fees. He is a demanding employee and the way
he left Villa, just five days before the start of this season, did nothing
to counter suggestions that he can be emotional and unpredictable. That
could prove a combustible combination with the new owners. The treatment of
Avram Grant, whatever his failings on the pitch, has been inexcusable. He
was appointed by these owners but has found himself undermined by the leaks
coming from the club about the search for his replacement and the public
criticism of Karren Brady, the vice-chairman.
David Gold has defended Grant publicly but it is understood that David
Sullivan has been far from convinced by his manager's ability to save the
club from relegation. Having to deal with these three figures, all of who
have public profile and are strong of opinion, will be a test for O'Neill,
who enjoyed the low profile support of Randy Lerner at Villa. Perhaps this
has informed O'Neill's apparent hesitancy over taking the job – although
that is typical of a man who does not take decisions lightly. He does his
second thoughts before he signs the contract.
Why does he want this job? West Ham's recent history is one of relentless
turbulence, from the Carlos Tévez affair through to the financial chaos that
followed under the Icelandic owners. They went into this weekend bottom of
the league and, while they take a first-leg lead to Birmingham in the
Carling Cup, there has been little cause for optimism at the club. It is no
secret that O'Neill coveted the Liverpool job and that, if he had waited
longer, he might have found a position at a club in a better state than the
one in which West Ham finds itself. He must therefore be sold on the plans
the owners have for the club. There has been some financial streamlining and
the club is looking healthier for that.
With the potential Olympic stadium move and a large, committed fan base,
there is a lot of potential if there is a period of stability. In the short
term he must also have been offered some guarantees about the funds
available to bring in new personnel. Robbie Keane, the Tottenham striker, is
believed to be one of his priorities. He would also bring in Steve Walford
as coach and his trusted scout Ian Storey-Moore, although John Robertson has
retired so Wally Downes could be retained. Ultimately, O'Neill manages on
his own terms. He is intelligent, eccentric and devoted to his family. He
never commits himself beyond what he is comfortable with and, if he does
take over, will doubtless adhere to his policy of signing one-year, rolling
contracts. What West Ham need is for one of those to roll on for some time.
What the CV shows
Wycombe Wanderers (1990-95)
O'Neill won successive promotions from the Conference up to the third tier
in 1993 and 1994.
Norwich City (1995)
Walked out after 20 games following a row with chairman Robert Chase over
the failure to sign Dean Windass from Hull.
Leicester City (1995-2000)
Led the Foxes to three League Cup finals, winning two (earning a Uefa Cup
place) and eighth in the Premier League.
Celtic (2000-2005)
Three SPL titles, four domestic cups and a Uefa Cup final made him a
Parkhead idol.
Aston Villa (2006-10)
Three successive sixth-place finishes and League Cup final but left due to
frustrations over the club's transfer policy.
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Martin O'Neill set to take replace Avram Grant as West Ham manager
By Duncan White and Oliver Brown 11:00PM GMT 15 Jan 2011
Telegraph.co.uk
Avram Grant was defiant on Saturday night as he clung to his job as West Ham
manager, even after a 3-0 defeat by Arsenal that is likely to trigger his
sacking in the next 48 hours – with Martin O'Neill the most likely
replacement. "I'm talking to you now," Grant said, in response to the
repeated question of whether he would still be managing the club on Sunday
morning. It is understood that representatives of the club have been trying
to persuade O'Neill to take the job for the last week, and that the former
Aston Villa manager was furious when news of the negotiations leaked out
yesterday. O'Neill left Aston Villa in August and has been persuaded to try
to save West Ham from relegation. He will be given funds to bring in players
and has made his priority the signing of Tottenham striker Robbie Keane, who
had been close to agreeing a deal with Birmingham City. West Ham are
believed to have identified Martin Jol, most recently of Ajax, as the next
best alternative, followed by Sam Allardyce, sacked by Blackburn last month.
But Grant, in the aftermath of an emphatic loss to Arsenal that left West
Ham at the bottom of the Premier League table with 20 points, reacted
tetchily to speculation over his future. "Why do you ask me this question?"
he said. "I think you need to ask somebody else. You need to ask the person
who gave you the rumours."
At the final whistle, the Israeli pointedly threw his club scarf to the West
Ham supporters, but denied any notion that this was a parting gesture.
"You need to respect the supporters. We lost 3-0, but I must say it was
emotional to see the reaction of the fans, to see them clapping. I cannot
say it was not touching to see this." Betraying the personal strain his
insecurity is causing him, Grant explained: "I live my life, I do my job.
I'll be honest with you, I cannot say that it has helped." Sources within
the club said there remained some support for Grant at board level –
believed to be from co-chairman David Gold – but with the club bottom of the
league with 15 games to go, a change is needed if relegation is to be
avoided. O'Neill has agreed in principle to join the club. However, West Ham
officials said last night an announcement was not imminent.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bridge nightmare merely adds to Hammers' agony
West Ham United 0 Arsenal 3
By Glenn Moore at Upton Park
Sunday, 16 January 2011
Independet.co.uk
If this was Avram Grant's last game as manager here, he left as he arrived,
to overwhelming indifference. As West Ham subsided to their 11th defeat in
23 League matches under his command he was neither cheered, nor jeered. The
few home supporters who stayed to the final whistle briefly booed the team,
but there was no personal animosity directed at Grant. There was even a
smattering of applause when he threw his scarf into the dwindling support
before heading down the tunnel.
The Israeli subsequently said, somewhat obliquely, that he was going nowhere
but it is strongly suggested that he will be relieved of his command
imminently. Martin O'Neill leads the contenders to replace him with Martin
Jol also linked with the post. Whoever takes over their first task will be
to haul West Ham off the bottom and out of the relegation zone.
Then there is a 2-1 lead to be defended in next week's Carling Cup
semi-final second leg. Plus, and this may be one reason for the timing of
the change, a meeting with the Government regarding ownership of the Olympic
Stadium site. The new man must help convince the politicians that the club
has a viable financial future, which is much more difficult if they are seen
to be Championship-bound.
Grant's long goodbye began in the morning when Sky Sports and the BBC
"understood" that he was to be sacked after the match and replaced by
O'Neill. The club insisted no announcement would be made on Grant's future
before, during or after the match. Vice-chairman Karren Brady said as she
left the ground last night: "Nothing has happened. I don't know where these
rumours have come from but nothing has happened."
Arsenal remain in third place in the Premier League with two goals from
Robin van Persie and one from Theo Walcott. In the circumstances Grant could
have done without the ordeal of facing Arsenal missing the team's heartbeat,
Scott Parker, who had an ankle injury. Two possible sources of goals,
Frédéric Piquionne and Victor Obinna, were also ruled out, with toothache
and suspension respectively. Then Mark Noble limped off after 16 minutes to
be replaced by the crowd's bête noire, Luis Boa Morte.
By then West Ham were already losing. Wayne Bridge had received an
extraordinarily warm welcome, given he was costing £90,000 a week and was a
former Chelsea player. Presumably the Boleyn's view was that any enemy of
John Terry was a friend of theirs. Bridge, who last played a month ago, had
a nightmarish debut and was implicated in every goal. It was from his flank
that Arsenal's first goal came. Jack Wilshere fed Walcott on the right and
Bridge stood off, allowing Walcott to roll a pass square. Samir Nasri
dummied, and Van Persie drove the ball in unchallenged for his 50th Premier
League goal.
Four minutes from the break Van Persie, who had struck the post after 31
minutes, was played onside by Bridge as he broke down the left channel. He
cut the ball back and Walcott tucked it away. The away fans, as ruthless as
their team, sang "You're getting sacked in an hour".
Victory was wrapped up when the hapless Bridge brought down Walcott in the
box with 14 minutes left, Van Persie scoring from the spot. Much of the
second period had been conducted at walking pace and if the teams meet in
next month's Carling Cup final at Wembley, one can only hope it is less
one-sided.
Attendance: 32,682
Referee: Andre Marriner
Man of the match: Van Persie
Match rating: 6/10
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OLYMPIC SWITCH IS DREAM MOVE FOR HAMMERS SKIPPER MATTHEW UPSON
Daily Express
Sunday January 16,2011
By Steve Young
WEST HAM captain Matthew Upson has hit back at Tottenham's plan to demolish
the Olympic Stadium and hopes the east London club will be awarded the bid
to play there. Spurs plan to knock down the £500million arena and build a
football stadium, while redeveloping Crystal Palace athletics stadium. The
move has outraged the athletics world, and International Olympic Committee
executive board member Frankie Frederics is adamant that the stadium should
keep the athletics track after the end of the Olympics next year. West Ham
have every intention of keeping the running track and Upson hopes the right
decision is made on January 28, when the Olympic Park Legacy Committee
announce the preferred bidder. Upson said: "I do understand why the club see
the importance of athletics within the stadium and also for what it will
mean for the community. "It would be a positive thing for future
generations. It is important and would be for the greater good of UK sport."
And Hammers striker Carlton Cole added: "I am looking forward to the
Olympics, but also afterwards. If, hopefully, we do get it, then there will
also be other sporting events going on, either in the summer break or
whatever. It would be a great all-round package for the community." And UK
Athletics chairman Ed Warner claimed: "The decision-makers have a choice of
taking the filthy lucre offered by Tottenham or doing right by the Olympic
Movement and standing by the promises made by London in Singapore. In my
mind it's an easy decision to make."
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