West Ham United statement
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have issued a statement relating to agents' fees
10.08.2012
West Ham United would like to clarify the club's position on agents' fees after stories in the media on Friday. Following the club's relegation to the npower Championship at the end of the 2010/11season, the Board decided on a clear strategy to attack the new season with ambitious and exciting singings capable of firing West Ham United back to the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt. The Board and manager Sam Allardyce quickly set about recruiting high-quality Premier League players, who possessed the quality to return the club to the top tier of English football and then stay on once they were promoted. The likes of captain Kevin Nolan, signed for an undisclosed transfer fee, Matt Taylor, Joey O'Brien and George McCartney were all recruited from the top division to aid the promotion push. The associated costs of recruiting Premier League players does mean that occasionally agents' fees do have to be paid out, although West Ham continue to campaign for a cap on such payments.
Although the club will always strive to keep these fees to a minimum, the reality is that agents are a part of the modern game and when high-quality signings are made, such costs have to be factored into the deal. The fees that West Ham United committed to pay last season would not stand out at a Premier League side, which was how the club viewed itself last season.
Attacking the Championship with high-profile signings was an ambitious strategy, but ultimately it was one that proved correct with the Hammers securing promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
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Four receive international call-ups
WHUFC.com
Four West Ham United players have been called-up by their respective nations
10.08.2012
Four West Ham United players have been called-up by their respective countries for international duty in August. Jack Collison, Joey O'Brien and new signings James Collins and Raphael Spiegel will all be involved for their nations ahead of the new Barclays Premier League season. Collison and Collins have been called-up by Wales manager Chris Coleman for their international friendly meeting with Bosnia-Herzegovina at Parc Y Scarlets in Llanelli on Wednesday 15 August. The fixture will serve as a warm-up for Wales' 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, which begins at home to Belgium and away in Serbia in September.
O'Brien has been recalled to the Ireland squad for the first time in four years. The defender, who has three previous caps, will join up with the squad ahead of their friendly against Serbia in Belgrade on 15 August. O'Brien has not played for Ireland for almost six years so will be looking to catch manager Giovanni Trapattoni's eye ahead of their first FIFA World Cup qualifier with Kazakhstan on 7 September.
Finally, goalkeeper Spiegel will join up with the Switzerland Under-20 squad for a training camp in Magglingen between 13-15 August.
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Hammers swoop for Diarra
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of France midfielder Alou Diarra
10.08.2012
West Ham United are delighted to announce the signing of France international midfielder Alou Diarra. The 2006 FIFA World Cup runner-up and 2012 UEFA European Championship star has joined the Hammers on a three-year contract from Olympique Marseille for an undisclosed fee. Capped 44 times, the 31-year-old has enjoyed a fine playing career, winning the French title twice, appearing in the UEFA Champions League nearly 30 times and captaining his country. Born in the northern Paris suburb of Villepinte, the 6'3 tall defensive midfielder is known for his outstanding physical attributes and leadership abilities.
Diarra said: "I am very happy to be here at West Ham - everything is signed now which is good and I am excited to be here at this club and to be playing for them in the Premier League. "I know a lot about West Ham as a club and when I knew they were interested in signing me, I was very happy and knew it would be a good choice for me. "We are a Premier League club and I know of players who were here before like Paolo Di Canio and Scott Parker, but of the players now in the team, I know Guy [Demel], Mo [Diame] and of course, Modibo Maiga, who played in the French league last year. "The club has just been promoted and I am looking forward to a good challenge with the team ahead. I see this as my chance in the Premier League to do well with West Ham. I hope that my experience can help and the fans will see me give my all in the matches."
After coming through the ranks at Ligue 2 club CS Louhans-Cuiseaux, Diarra was snapped up by Bayern Munich at the age of 19, spending the next two seasons learning his trade in the German giants' reserve team alongside future internationals Owen Hargreaves, Philipp Lahm and Bastian Schweinsteiger. After signing for Liverpool in 2002, Diarra enjoyed successful loan spells with French clubs Le Havre, Bastia and Lens before joining the latter on a permanent basis in 2005. The 2005/06 season proved something of a breakthrough campaign for Diarra, who made ten European appearances as Lens reached the last-32 of the UEFA Cup. That impressive form saw Ligue 1 champions Olympique Lyonnais move to take him to the Stade Gerland in the summer of 2006. Before his move to Lyon, however, Diarra helped France to reach the 2006 FIFA World Cup final. Having made his debut in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Republic of Ireland in Paris in October 2004, he appeared twice in Germany, including a substitute appearance in the final defeat by Italy. Diarra won the Ligue 1 title with Lyon in 2007, but after making just 15 league appearances, he joined Bordeaux. There, he would make more than 150 appearances over four seasons, winning the title again in 2009 and three other domestic trophies. After captaining France in their group-stage meeting with host nation South Africa at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he joined Marseille a year ago, helping the club to win the French League Cup in April 2012. Diarra appeared at his third major tournament with France, starting all three group matches, including the 1-1 draw with England.
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Dev Squad comeback comes up short
WHUFC.com
Dagenham and Redbridge proved too strong for the Development Squad in a pre-season fixture on Saturday
11.08.2012
A spirited second half fightback wasn't enough for the Development Squad as they lost 6-3 against a strong Dagenham and Redbridge side. The Hammers went behind in the third minute when Jake Larkins was unable to keep out Dwight Gayle's point-blank header, and despite reacting well it was soon two as Gayle caught them on the break and finished well. Ian Hendon's side were to endure more bad luck before the halfway stage as the home side got their third when Gale's tame shot took a wicked deflection rendering Larkins helpless. The tide turned in the second half and the Hammers reduced the deficit after just one minute when Rob Hall was brought down and captain Jordan Spence hammered the spot-kick home. Hall took centre-stage once more just two minutes later, drifting in from the right before bending a delicious ball inside the far post to make it 3-2.
On another day the Hammers would have completed their comeback and gone on to win and they almost equalised when Kenzer Lee's header was somehow tipped over as the away side continued to press. Despite the Hammers' pressure, it was Dagenham's day as they struck twice on the counter-attack in quick succession - the goals coming from Billy Bingham and Jake Reed. Sam Williams added a sixth before Jordan Spence converted from the spot for the second time before Sam Baldock and Frederic Piquionne were denied opportunities to further reduce the deficit.
Hendon accepted that his side should have shown more focus, particularly in the first half, but praised the effort of lone striker Paul McCallum. "It was men against boys today, which is not necessarily a criticism as Dagenham are a very experienced, well-drilled side," said Hendon. "That said, we didn't dominate the midfield like we needed to and support Paul who showed a superb work-rate. He battled well against two big centre-halves and deserves a lot of credit."
Hendon also believes that positives can be taken in defeat. The Development Squad host Reading to begin their Barclays Under-21 Premier League campaign at Rush Green Stadium on Friday at 7pm, and he believes this result could provide the focus they need. "We arrange these games with fitness and preparation being our main focus. Now we need to work hard to improve for Friday. They're all good players, but when it's tough like Saturday and we're up against it they need to show for the ball and want it more. That way we will create more and control the game."
Hendon bemoaned his side's lack of luck as the Daggers scored two goals from cruel deflections either side of the half-time break. "I've seen a lot of positive signs in the past few games that suggest we have turned a corner. We have looked stronger, sharper and fitter. Maybe today is one of those days where things just haven't gone our way. We started the second half very well, got back into it, and then they scored via a deflection for the second time. "We can count ourselves very unlucky."
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Improved performance pleases Big Sam
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was happy with West Ham United's sharpness as they drew 1-1 with SC Braga
11.08.2012
Sam Allardyce was impressed with the response he witnessed from his West Ham United side during their 1-1 draw with SC Braga. The West Ham United manager saw a close-range Winston Reid effort secure a well-deserved draw on Friday evening as the Hammers wrapped up their pre-season campaign. The home side had taken the lead in the 34th minute when Lima converted a hotly-disputed penalty after James Collins was adjudged to have handballed. "I think it was a very good game to play in," Big Sam told West Ham TV. "Braga as a team will be in or around the top three or four teams in Portugal. They will be playing in Europe so it was a good test for the lads both technically and physically. "It was an unfortunate penalty against us when the ball hit James Collins and then his hand but that is what you get when you're away in Europe sometimes. It was a good performance overall and it was good to see Momo play for us and for Tonks to get a good run out after coming back from the Olympics."
The Hammers' goal was straight from the training ground as Matt Taylor floated a corner into the box, the retuning Olympian James Tomkins nodded it down and Winston Reid was on hand to prod the ball home from three yards out. Although there were perhaps only 200 Hammers fans in the ground, their delight to see an 89th-minute leveller ahead of the start of the Barclays Premier League season was there for all to hear.
George Moncur did have a brilliant chance to win the match right at the death, but, after being put through one-on-one by Mark Noble, his shot into the far corner was brilliantly saved by Quim in the Braga goal. Quim had a busy night and another fine stop from a Modibo Maiga header kept the Champions League qualifiers in the game as the Hammers' pre-season preparations stepped up a couple of notches.
"It was a very sound, solid performance overall and a good end to the game which showed our fitness is coming on, which is what we want. It's nice to see us score from a set play. A Matt Taylor ball in and James Tomkins knocked it down and it was finished by Reidy. "We should have scored a late winner when young George Moncur went through but sadly he didn't put that one in the back of the net. It was a great counter-attack started by Mark Noble but in Moncur on a one-on-one. The lad is hugely is hugely disappointed he's not stuck it away."
Big Sam's thoughts will immediately turn to defeating Aston Villa in the first game of the new Premier League season. There is limited availability on tickets for the game so fans are advised to move quickly. Click here for more information.
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West Ham sign Alou Diarra for £2m from Marseille
BBC.co.uk
West Ham have completed the signing of French midfielder Alou Diarra from Marseille for a fee reported to be £2m. Diarra, 31, signed a three-year deal at Upton Park on Friday after completing his transfer from the French side. The midfielder, who spent three years at Liverpool but did not make a first-team appearance, played all four of France's games at Euro 2012. Diarra said: "I am excited to be here at this club and to be playing for them in the Premier League."
He added: "I know a lot about West Ham as a club. When I knew they were interested in signing me, I was very happy and knew it would be a good choice for me.
"We are a Premier League club and I know of players who were here before like Paolo Di Canio and Scott Parker, but of the players now in the team, I know Guy [Demel], Mo [Diame] and of course, Modibo Maiga, who played in the French league last year."
Diarra, with 44 international caps, has played the majority of his career in France. But his Marseille future was placed in doubt when he reported back from Euro 2012 six days late, an infraction for which he was fined. West Ham have already paid Aston Villa £2.5m for James Collins this summer and brought in Mali striker Maiga, who completed a £4.7m transfer from French club Sochaux last month,- as Sam Allardyce rebuilds his promotion-winning squad.
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Jarvis wants out
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 12th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Wolverhapton Wanderes manager Stale Solbakken confirmed last night that West Ham transfer target Matt Jarvis had handed in a transfer request. The Championship club claimed earlier in the week that the Hammers has made a £9million bid for the once-capped English international - an offer that was flatly rejected. However the winger signalled his intention to leave Molineux yesterday when he handed in a transfer request - a move confirmed by Solbakken. "He wants to leave but it has to be right for Wolves," said the Norweigan coach. "At the end of the day, I am not making the final decision. We are a little unsettled at the moment and everything is not fine but we have to fight through this."
Jarvis, who moved to Wolves from Gillingham for £600,000 back in 2007 missed Wolves' match with Aldershot yesterday although Solbakken insisted that the 26-year-old was ill. "This is a true story and you can believe it or not," he said, "but he is actually sick. He is a good guy in a stressful situation at the moment."
Jarvis' sole appearance for England thus far came against Ghana in a 2011 friendly.
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SC Braga 1 West Ham Utd 1
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 10th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Winston Reid's last-gasp equaliser earned West Ham a share of the spoils in their final match of pre-season in Portugal tonight. A goal behind to a first half penalty, the New Zealander struck in the final minute of normal time to earn Sam Allardyce's side a draw which was the very least they deserved for a spirited effort in what proved to be a lively encounter. West Ham featured four of their eight summer signings in tonight's starting XI; Jussi Jaaskelainen, James Collins, Momo Diame and Modibo Maiga all featured in a 4-3-3 formation with Carlton Cole spearheading at attack with Maiga and Ricardo Vaz Te either side.
Meanwhile James Tomkins reverted to the defensive midfield role that he was occasionally employed in during the 2011/12 campaign, with Collins and Reid forming the central defensive unit immediately behind him. After a decent start, in which West Ham arguably produced their best football of pre-season, it was the hosts who took the lead 11 minutes before the break. The returning James Collins appeared to be penalised for hand-ball after Custodio Castro's effort had been saved by Jaaskelainen and Lima - aka Rodrigo Jose Lima dos Santos - sent the Finnish 'keeper the wrong way from 12 yards to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Having re-appeared for the second half with a number of new faces and a new kit (their second strip) Braga threatened to score a second but West Ham stood strong. The home side appeared to have achieved their aim with just five minutes remaining when sub Baiano found the net, however he was adjudged - correctly - to be offside. It was to prove the turning point in the game as just four minutes later West Ham grabbed what had appeared to be an unlikely equaliser. Having forced a corner on the right, substitute Matt Taylor swung in a deep cross which was headed back into the mix by James Tomkins, stationed at the far post.
Winston Reid was first to react and the Kiwi poked the ball over the goal line from three yards out despite the close attention of a number of Braga defenders to level the scores. With Braga pushing on looking to restore their lead, United could have been celebrating an unlikely win had youngster George Moncur looked up and squared the ball when United broke on the counter attack in the second minute of added-on time. With three players completely unmarked, the son of former Hammers midfielder John Moncur opted instead to shoot and his effort was pushed aside by Braga 'keeper Quim.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen, Demel (Potts 79), Reid, Collins (O'Neil 74), O'Brien, Tomkins, Diame (Moncur 84), Noble, Vaz Te, Maiga, Cole (Taylor 71).
Sub not used: Henderson.
SC Braga: Quim, Mossoro, Barbosa, Lima, Elderson, Salino, Vinicius, Custodio, Alan, Douglao, Viana.
Subs: Beto, Nuno Coelho, Amorim, Luis Alberto, Micael, Baiano, Ismaily, Djamal, Carlao.
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Diarra signs three-year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 10th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have completed the signing of French international Alou Diarra. As revealed here on KUMB late on Wednesday evening, the 31-year-old flew into London yesterday in order to undergo a two-part medical which was finally completed earlier this morning. Just a few minutes ago it was confirmed by West Ham United that the former Marseille player has completed his move to the Boleyn Ground, siging a three-year deal with the Hammers. And although the fee is undisclosed, reports suggest that West Ham paid in the region of £2million to sign Diarra from the Ligue 1 outfit.
Speaking via whufc.com, he said: "I am very happy to be here at West Ham. Everything is signed now and I am excited to be playing for them in the Premier League. I know a lot about West Ham as a club and when I knew they were interested in signing me, I was very happy and knew it would be a good choice.
"Of the players in the team, I know Guy [Demel], Mo [Diame] and Modibo Maiga, who played in the French league last year. I am looking forward to a good challenge with the team; I hope that my experience can help and the fans will see me give my all in the matches."
A defensive midfielder who can also be utilised in the centre of defence, Diarra first moved to England 2002 when he was signed by Gerard Houllier, a fellow Frenchman, for Liverpool in 2002 (from Bayern Munich). However he failed to make a single appearance for the Merseyside club and spent the three years contracted to the club on loan at Le Havre, Bastia and Lens - who he eventually joined on a permanent basis in 2005. The 6'3" Frenchman's most successful years followed thereafter as he moved to Lyon in 2006 - where he picked up a league-winners medal - and then on to Bordeaux in 2007 where he spent the next four years. It was during this stage in his career that he captained his country at the 2010 World Cup Finals, in their opening game of the tournament against hosts South Africa. Linked with clubs such as Manchester City in the past, Diarra moved to current club Marseille in July 2011 for €5million. He becomes West Ham's eighth signing of pre-season.
Pre-season signings: the story so far
May
21st: Stephen Henderson (Portsmouth, nominal fee)
June
14th: Jussi Jaaskelainen (Bolton, nominal fee)
20th: Momo Diame (Wigan, free transfer)
July
1st: George McCartney (Sunderland, nominal fee)
18th: Modibo Maiga (Sochaux, £4.5million)
23rd: Raphael Spiegler (Grasshoppers, nominal fee)
August
1st: James Collins (Aston Villa, £2million)
10th: Alou Diarra (Marseille, £2million)
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Jarvis asks for move
Wolves winger hands in transfer request
Last Updated: August 11, 2012 11:54am
SSN
Sky Sports understands that Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Matt Jarvis has handed in a transfer request at Molineux. The 26-year-old has become the second player this week to officially make a request to leave, following on from Sunderland target Steven Fletcher. Jarvis has been the subject of rejected bids from West Ham, whilst Stoke and Fulham have also been linked with his services. Now the Middlesbrough-born winger has made his position clear and he wants to be back in the Premier League next season. Jarvis has one eye on his international prospects, having already gained one England cap last year.
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Diarra happy with Hammers switch
Frenchman looking forward to Premier League challenge
By Subhankar Mondal. Last Updated: August 10, 2012 4:21pm
SSN
French midfielder Alou Diarra is delighted to join West Ham United and is looking forward to playing in the Premier League. The 31-year-old signed for the Hammers from Marseille on Friday on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Diarra, a France international, is overjoyed with the move and hopes to make a major impact on West Ham's 2012/13 season. "I am very happy to be here at West Ham - everything is signed now which is good and I am excited to be here at this club and to be playing for them in the Premier League," he told the club's official website. "I know a lot about West Ham as a club and when I knew they were interested in signing me, I was very happy and knew it would be a good choice for me.
Challenge
"We are a Premier League club and I know of players who were here before like Paolo Di Canio and Scott Parker, but of the players now in the team, I know Guy [Demel], Mo [Diame] and of course, Modibo Maiga, who played in the French league last year. "The club has just been promoted and I am looking forward to a good challenge with the team ahead. "I see this as my chance in the Premier League to do well with West Ham. I hope that my experience can help and the fans will see me give my all in the matches."
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The German Ideology - Theses on Sam Allardyce's Football Management
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Sam Allardyce gave an interesting interview to the German media prior to the pre-season match with Dynamo Dresden. In it, Allardyce was asked about the difference between the English Premier League and the German first tier. I will not summarise his comparative analysis, but what was of particular interest was his comments on the complexity of being a coach in the EPL. Sam Allardyce observed that one of the defining features was the multiplicity of different formations employed by clubs and the need to adjust your own formation and tactics accordingly. He suggested that on different weeks you can face formations such as 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 4-5-1 or 4-2-3-1 and made the point that one side has even started playing three defenders at the back.
The reason that I found it interesting is because it exposed the erroneous assumption that Sam Allardyce is structuring his squad to adopt one monocasual formation or style of play. The assumption becoming common coinage is that Allardyce is structuring his squad to just adopt a sole 4-3-3/4-5-1 formation. There have even been Chinese whispers that Allardyce's approach is all about power and direct play and that ball players like Mark Noble will not fit in to it. We also often hear the lament, what is the point of having he likes of Maynard or a potential new signing Matt Jarvis in the squad, because they do not fit in to Allardyce's formation. Underpinning this observation, once again, is the assumption that West Ham will only play one system next season. Another comment sometimes heard is, what is our chosen first team line up? As if it is still the 1970s when teams had a first XI and a reserve team and, to slightly adapt Rudyard Kipling's famous phrase, 'rarely shall the twain meet.'
Modern football is a squad game. Surely, Allardyce's intention is to build a squad with the capacity and ability to play different formations. Arguably, it is wrong to suppose that we will play the same way regardless of the quality of the opposition or tactics/formation that they deploy? Allardyce himself has often stated that there is a prevalent distorted view of what he is all about as a coach. At the core of this view is that he has a one-dimensional tactical approach based upon the infamous 'long ball.' Yet last season I only remember one sustained ariel bombardment and that was the exciting 3-3 home draw with Birmingham City. And in that match he changed tactics, to Plan B, in the second half, precisely because Plan A was not working and we were losing 1-3. Obviously he was right on that occasion because it snatched a draw from the jaws of defeat!
And yes, we are now a physically imposing side and we have worked on our set plays, but what's wrong with that? Surely that is just a way of adding 'another string to our bow' and ensuring that we can score goals and win matches utilising all possible options open to us. After all it was not exactly as if we did not need to improve in those areas. How many times over the decades have West Ham teams been physically intimidated out of matches? How bad have we traditionally been at set pieces over the years (whether taking or defending them!)? Lets see if the old 'pushovers' tag is still applied to us next season under Allardyce. I think a few PL managers next season might be in for a bit of a shock.
The manager wants to play passing football, wherever possible, that is quite clear from his prior comments. But he will either mix it up or play a more direct style if it increases our chances of winning by: dictating play, dominating the opposition and exploiting their defensive weaknesses. The great Ron Greenwood did not have that philosophy, he was a purist, who thought the style of play was just as important as the result. His ideal was to play open, attacking football and always win the right way. But Allardyce is not an exponent of Greenwood's purist ideals, he is arguably a pragmatist and to him the three points is always the 'bottom line.' Hence, his constant emphasis upon 'winning football matches' and the 'West Ham Way' being about doing exactly that. The conflict between manager and the fans lies in the fact that the head of most Hammers supporters would probably accept Allardyce's rationale, but their hearts and the senses lie with the Academy/Greenwood tradition.
I believe that Allardyce's objectives are obviously to improve the quality of the squad, as well as its strength in depth. It also means having different types of players so that he can change tactics to secure results . That should not be an amazing revelation, but the nature of debate amongst fans convinces me that it is a point that still needs to be laboured. At times next season he will play 4-4-2, on others 4-3-3 and others still (especially away from home at places like Emirates and Old Trafford) he might deploy a solid 4-5-1 or 4-4-1-1. And of course he will switch tactics, using the substitutes bench, as necessary. I also believe that it will not be all about negative football and grinding out results next season. Allardyce knows that West Ham fans love to be entertained and he will do his best to satisfy their demands. Fortunately, next season other PL teams will approach matches against us with the objective of winning. There will not be as many packed midfields and attempts to grind out of results as we witnessed last season. This will open up plenty of possibilities for the Hammers to pass the ball, attack and entertain.
I wonder if there is a part of Sam Allardyce that wants to use next season to lay the myth, once and for all, about his so-called long ball tactics? After all, we did play some excellent football on occasions last season, such as the demolition of Notts Forest (away), Brighton (home), Blackpool (away), Barnsley (away) and Cardiff City (home in the 2nd leg play-off semi-final). Although the myth is still often repeated that we only played a direct style last season. Even though the evidence clearly proves otherwise.
The answer to the above question is probably yes, as long as it wins football matches! Because it is Allardyce's apparent pragmatism and desire to win that is ultimately in the driving seat and they will be the final determinant of how we set up and the tactics that we deploy. Surely that is the key to understanding Sam Allardyce's management? Not often repeated cliches about one-dimensional football and long ball tactics!
SJ. Chandos.
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Wolves Reject £9m Hammers Bid for Matt Jarvis!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Well, Wolves must be in a good financial position to be able to reject a £9m package for their winger, Matt Jarvis. Usually relegated teams tend to sacrifice one or two stars to fund the rebuilding of their squad. Last season we lost Scott Parker and Demba Ba in similar circumstances. It can obviously weaken a side in the short-term, but the other side of the coin is that it provides an injection of cash to bring in other players. In our case, we only generated a c.£5m fee for Parker, although both his and Ba's transfers did free up significant money on the wage bill.
Of course, it could be that Wolves are playing a cagey game of rejecting an initial bid, in the anticipation that improved offers ill follow. They may even hope that the final fee will be inflated by an auction with other clubs entering the frame. Alternatively, Wolves might genuinely see Jarvis as crucial to their promotion push this season. A £9m fee if a very good offer and Wolves must have thought twice before rejecting it. Jarvis is a very good winger, but will the Hammers hierarchy be tempted to up their bid to £10m, the valuation that Wolves seem to have put on the player?
Elsewhere, the official site has announced that a new international signing is at an advanced stage and should be announced later this afternoon. The probablity that is going to be French international Alou Diarra. Diarra should be a good and experienced signing, it gives us another defensive midfield option, besides Mo Diame, and extra cover at centre back. It has been a very frustrating summer so far, but you get the sense that Sam Allardyce is slowly assembling the players that he needs for this summer's PL campaign. Yes, there are still notable question marks over certain positions, but the fact is that a lot of business will undoubtedly take place in the period 18-31 August 2012. And it usually takes one or two big deals to set off a chain reaction of other deals.
We may feel certain frustrations at West Ham, but it should also be remembered that the market as a whole has been fairly quiet so far this summer. There will undoubtedly be a flurry of transfer activity before the window closes. It is not ideal to leave it late, but that is the nature of the beast that is the football transfer window.
Anyway, our additions are very important to our chances next season, no doubt about that. But I am also hopeful that we will benefit from the 'Swansea and Norwich effect' next season. That is having a highly motivated core of established players, who impress with their commitment, application and togetherness. Why not, contrary to what some 'doom and gloomers' would have us believe we do have some very good players, other players who are hungry to do well and some very promising youngsters who could positively impact this season. It is a optimistic scenerio, but why write off our chances before we have even kicked off the campaign. Critical anaylsis is right and proper, but striking your colours this early is not only absurd, it is quite frankly defeatist.
Personally, I want to see us sign another right-back, a creative midfielder, a striker and a winger. That's four players as a minimum. There are question marks over our keepers, the left back position and whether we have enough width on both flanks. But I would go with McCartney/Taylor/Potts up to the 31 August 2012 and make an emergency deal for a left-back if there are problems. I think that they will stick with our current keepers and we can only hope that they perform. But you know there comes a point where you have to trust in certain players, use your ability as a coach and make the very best of what you have. I do not know how the remainder of our transfer business will go, but there is bound to be an element of that when the window closes.
It must be quite nerve wrecking for a manager if he has missed certain transfer targets and he starts the season hoping that he has done enough in the transfer market. But that is what they are paid for and they invariably pay 'the price' (if you can call a multi-million pound pay-off that) with the sack if they get it wrong. Somehow, I really do not see Sam Allardyce getting it wrong. His PL track record is a very good indicator of that; as is his proven ability to get the very best out of his players. I know that not all fans are convinced of his syle of football, but it is an asset to have manager of his experience at the helm. Neither Southampton nor Reading have a similar assurance! And that could prove a crucial factor in deciding the outcome of this coming season.
SJ. Chandos.
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We Need More Strength In Depth, Especially In Defence
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
With the start of the season less than a week away, I guess now is as good a time as any to evaluate how the pre-season has gone and where we still need to strengthen the squad over the next week or three. Results wise we haven't exactly pulled up any trees. Indeed, results seem to have got worse, after an encouraging start. But it's not results that count in friendlies, it's performances. I haven't been to any of the games, but from what I have read, we have looked very shaky defensively. And it seems to me that defence is where we really need to strengthen our squad. We seem to have an abundance of midfielders and strikers, with more on the way imminently, but despite the arrival of James Collins, I think we need a top class central defender. Let's go through the squad, position by position...
GOALKEEPER
Jussi Jaaskelainen
Stephen Henderson
Raphael Spiegel
Jack Larkins
All the indications are that Jussi will be Number One. That makes me nervous. No one can tell me this is an advancement on last season when we had an England international goalie. I'd like to see us pick up a proven international goalkeeper, but I just don't see it happening. A good goalkeeper can be worth 10 points a season. A bad one can get you relegated.
CENTRAL DEFENCE
James Tomkins
Winston Reid
James Collins
Three specialist central defenders is not enough. It should be acknowledged that McCartney, Demel and Diarra can all play there if needed, but we certainly need at least one more specialist.
FULL BACKS
George McCartney
Dan Potts
Joey O'Brien
Guy Demel
Jordan Spence
I'm not as worried as some about our lack of depth at left and right back. Matt Taylor plays comfortably at left back too, and James Tomkins can cover right back. I'm not convinced by Demel yet, but O'Brien has never let us down, although he is prone to injury. Faubert was always useful to have as a backup, although he was always better going forward than defending.
CENTRAL MIDFIELD
Alou Diarra
Mark Noble
Jack Collison
Kevin Nolan
Mo Diame
Five into three won't go, so it will be interesting to see who Sam Allardyce picks to play in the centre. This is the one area of the pitch where I feel comfortable with what we have.
WIDE MIDFIELD
Matt Taylor
Gary O'Neil
Ricardo Vaz Te
Rumour is that Matt Jarvis from Wolves is close to signing. He was left out of the Wolves squad today, so draw your own conclusions. But £10 million? I'm not so sure, but it might be tasty with him on one wing and Vaz Te on the other. Maiga can also play wide left. There are also renewed rumours about Yossi Benayoun making a return, now that Ravel Morrison has mysteriously gone out on loan.
STRIKERS
Carlton Cole
Nicky Maynard
Rob Hall
Sam Baldock
Freddie Piquionne
Modibo Maiga
Rob Hall
We can safely assume Piquionne isn't going to play much of a part and it seems that Sam Baldock will soon be on his way. If Wolves have any sense, they will make him part of the Jarvis deal. I'd like to see an out and out goalscorer brought in (which rules out Andy Carroll), but all seems quiet on that front at the moment.
All in all we have a squad of only 21 senior players. We need another four, I reckon. But from the players listed on the club website already, this would be my first choice starting eleven...
Henderson, Tomkins, Collins, McCartney, O'Brien, Noble, Nolan, Diame, Vaz Te, Diarra, Cole
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers seal Alou coup
The Sun
Published: 10th August 2012
WEST HAM have completed the signing of France star Alou Diarra on a three-year contract. The battling midfielder, who starred against England at Euro 2012, has left Marseille for the Premier League new boys in a £2millon deal. Diarra, 31, has 44 caps for France and has previously had a spell in England with Liverpool between 2002-2005, although he failed to make an appearance for the Reds. Diarra said: "I am very happy to be here at West Ham - everything is signed now which is good and I am excited to be here at this club and to be playing for them in the Premier League. "I know a lot about West Ham as a club and when I knew they were interested in signing me, I was very happy and knew it would be a good choice for me. "We are a Premier League club and I know of players who were here before like Paolo Di Canio and Scott Parker. "But of the players now in the team, I know Guy Demel, Mo Diame and of course, Modibo Maiga, who played in the French league last year. "The club has just been promoted and I am looking forward to a good challenge with the team ahead. "I see this as my chance in the Premier League to do well with West Ham. "I hope that my experience can help and the fans will see me give my all in the matches."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Get me out of here! Matt Jarvis hands in a transfer request to force through West Ham move
The Mirror
Matt Jarvis has handed in a transfer request - to force through his move to West Ham United. Wolves winger Jarvis has made the move after the Championship club knocked back a £9m bid from Sam Allardyce. Jarvis wants to stay in the Premier League and is also wanted by Fulham, who have had a £5m bid rejected. The ambitious Hammers are ready to pay £6m up front with another £3m in add-ons for the England winger. But Wolves are sticking to their £10m valuation of the player they signed for £700,000 from Gillingham. Wolves boss Stale Solbakken confirmed the Hammers offer,saying: "Bids are coming in for Jarvis and so far they have been turned down. "Players have a valuation and that goes for everyone in the whole world. "So far the valuation for Jarvis is bigger than the offers we have received."
Jarvis is the second player in a week to slap in an official transfer request, following the lead of Steven Fletcher, after Wolves rejected a £12m offer from Sunderland for the striker.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM ALERTED TO ADRIEN SILVA AVAILABILITY
Daily Star
12th August 2012 By Daily Star Reporter
WEST Ham have been alerted by the news that contract talks between Sporting Lisbon and midfielder Adrien Silva have collapsed. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has the player, 23, on his radar. Silva's agent Jim Michel Gabriel said: "The player will not extend his contract with Sporting." Sporting will listen to offers of around £2milion, but Allardyce could trim that knowing the player can leave.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham told to cough up £10m for Jarvis after Wolves turn down lower offer
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 10 August 2012 | UPDATED: 22:30, 10 August 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham will have to offer £10million to land Wolves winger Matt Jarvis. The Hammers' bid of £6m plus £3m in add-ons for Jarvis, 26, was rejected on Friday.
Wolves want the majority of the money paid up-front and it is understood they would accept a restructured offer. Their chief executive Jez Moxey said: 'We have received a bid for Matt Jarvis but, as we have said, no player will leave until our valuation is met.'
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, August 12
Friday, August 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th August 2012
Hammers primed for Portuguese test
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are ready for their final pre-season match at UEFA Champions
League hopefuls SC Braga
09.08.2012
West Ham United will complete their pre-season schedule with a
glamorous-looking visit to Portuguese side SC Braga on Friday evening.
However, glamour will be the furthest thing from the minds of the Hammers'
players, who only have eyes on putting on a performance against the UEFA
Champions League qualifiers. Assistant manager Neil McDonald said the squad
had been working hard since arriving in north west Portugal on Tuesday
evening and were relishing the test that awaits them at the unique and
stunning Estadio Municipal. With a squad boasting current Portugal
internationals Custodio and Hugo Viana and a host of talented Portuguese and
Brazilian players, Braga will be a force to be reckoned with. West Ham
arrived in Braga on Tuesday evening and have trained for the past two
mornings at the host club's old Primeiro de Maio home - a large open stadium
still used by Braga's junior teams. On Thursday afternoon, the players
enjoyed a core strength exercise session on the hotel lawn before taking a
dip in the swimming pool. Away from the pitch, the squad have also held a
series of meetings to plan for the Barclays Premier League campaign ahead -
starting with the visit of Aston Villa on Saturday 18 August. "Portugal has
been very good," said Macca. "We've been really well looked after again, as
we were in Austria and Germany earlier in pre-season. It's a fantastic hotel
and we're only five minutes away from our training ground at Braga's old
stadium, so there is plenty of history around. "We've done some really good
team and individual work and we'll finish it off with a game on Friday
against a team that is in the Champions League. We're also looking forward
to playing at one of the wonderful new stadia built for the European
Championship finals when they were in Portugal back in 2004. "It will be the
last game to try to sharpen everything up before we move into the final week
of pre-season."
West Ham's most-recent pre-season match saw the Hammers defeated 3-1 at
Ipswich Town - a result and performance that the assistant manager admitted
had not been good enough. Now, with just 90 minutes to put things right in a
match situation ahead of the Barclays Premier League campaign, Macca said
the players have upped their game on the training pitch ahead of Friday's
fixture.
"We've seen a response. They've trained really, really well and they've
taken the constructive criticism on board. We know we have over a week to go
and a lot of the work we have done since the Ipswich game has been a lot
sharper. "We're looking a lot brighter so we'll see how it goes on Friday.
We're looking for a better performance from each and every one of the
individuals involved on Friday, even though the result doesn't really
matter. I'm sure we'll get it."
Big Sam and Macca are known for their meticulous approach to every match and
the season opener is no different, meaning the squad will train at the
Boleyn Ground twice next week to get used to playing at their home stadium
again. Likewise, for new boys Jussi Jaaskelainen, Mohamed Diame, Modibo
Maiga and Raphael Spiegel, the sessions will give them a first feel of what
it is like to be in the home dressing room at the Academy of Football.
"We're going to go to the ground for a couple of days to reacquaint
ourselves with the stadium surroundings and being on the grass. We'll have a
couple of sharp training sessions there and then everybody will be itching
to get the game out of the way because it seems like ages since the fixture
list came out. "The gaffer said today that we're into single figures now -
we've only got nine days to go and we can't wait to get started."
*Assistant manager Neil McDonald will run the second of his new
ProSoccerSessions - coaching sessions for coaches - at the club's Chadwell
Heath training ground on Thursday 16 August. After a successful launch
earlier this month, McDonald who himself holds a UEFA Pro License, will be
hosting the scheme which is aimed at part-time football managers and
coaches. The session will again be run at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training
ground from 6.30pm to 9pm. The only qualification for attending the course
is that you currently manage or coach a recognised football team at any
level or you are a player aspiring to be a coach. McDonald said: "The first
session went really well. I tried to keep it to low numbers and everyone on
the first course has booked in for the next one, so they want to come back
and continue what we have started to work on which is good. We can go over
sessions again and there is a lot of new stuff to look at, but if anyone
else wants to join us on this one, they can. I am really looking forward to
meeting some more new coaches, as the last one was such a success."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tonks raring to go
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is aiming for a good start to the 2012/13 season after
competing at the Olympics
09.08.2012
James Tomkins has spoken about the pride he felt at representing Team GB at
the Olympics as his focus switches back to West Ham United and the Barclays
Premier League. Tomkins featured in two of Team GB's fixtures - a friendly
against Brazil and a group stage win against UAE - and he feels the
experience will benefit him when the new season kicks-off in just over a
week. Speaking from Portugal ahead of West Ham United's final pre-season
match against Braga on Friday night, the Basildon-born central defender
explained that he is now glad to back training with his club team-mates. "It
is great to be back with the lads," said Tomkins. "It is very nice out here,
we arrived on Tuesday and have already had a couple of good training
sessions. "The weather is also great which helps and it's obviously good to
see everyone again."
Tomkins also insisted that despite spending the majority of pre-season away
from the side he is ready to knuckle down ahead of the Premier League
curtain raiser against Aston Villa on 18 August. "We will have a lot more
training leading up to our final pre-season game with Braga and then the
beginning of the season. We are really looking forward to the match on
Friday. Playing it abroad always adds a nice touch and it will be nice to
see our fans out here in what will no doubt be a large crowd."
Tomkins and Team GB were knocked out at the quarter-final stage at the
Olympics after topping Group A with some impressive results. Now, after
sharing the stage with the likes of Ryan Giggs, Neymar and Luis Suarez, the
23-year-old is only focused on getting off to a flying start with the
Hammers. "I enjoyed being involved with Team GB and the experience of
playing at the Olympics experience was really good. It is a shame we didn't
get further and it finished the way it did, but overall it was very
enjoyable. "For me, I am focusing on the new season ahead with the first
game only round the corner and we're all really looking forward to playing
at home in the Premier League. "We want to make a good start and will be
working hard in training over the next week or so to make sure we ready for
the challenge ahead."
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Chambers signs new contract
WHUFC.com
17-year-old defender Leo Chambers has signed his first professional contract
with the club
09.08.2012
West Ham United are delighted to announce that England Under-16
international Leo Chambers has signed his first professional contract with
the club. The 17-year-old central defender continued to impress in Tony
Carr's Under-18 side last season and saw success at international level when
he captained his country as they lifted the Victory Shield. The Brixton-born
youngster has made the step up to Ian Hendon's Development Squad in recent
weeks and could be involved when they kick-off their Barclays Under-21
Premier League campaign against Reading on Friday 17 August. "I'm extremely
delighted to sign my first professional contract with West Ham United,"
Chambers said. "I've been working very hard but I believe this is only a
beginning. "I will continue to work hard with the youth team and hopefully
force my way into the Development Squad and the first team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers strike Diarra deal
Midfielder close to completing Upton Park switch
Last Updated: August 9, 2012 11:18am
SSN
Sky Sports understands that West Ham United have agreed a deal with
Marseille for France international midfielder Alou Diarra. The former
Liverpool enforcer arrived in England on Thursday morning to undergo a
medical and put the finishing touches to a move. It is believed that the
31-year-old will pen a two-year contract with the Hammers. Diarra was
expected to be on the move this summer after struggling to settle at
Marseille.
Future
He only joined the club in 2011, but failed to produce his best at Stade
Velodrome. He did make France's Euro 2012 squad, and started their first
game against England, but much of his focus has been on the future. Diarra
will be hoping that a return to England will help to bring the best out of
him and allow him to prove to those at Anfield that they were wrong to let
him go without making a senior appearance. His career took off after leaving
Anfield, with spells at Lens, Lyon and Bordeaux seeing him pick up two
French titles and two Coupe de la Ligue successes.
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Moussa Konate - Destination West Ham?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Kumb have reported that Senegalese media sources are stating that Olympic
striking sensation, Moussa Konate, is currently in London negotiating a move
to a PL club. The 19-year-old striker impressed in the Olympic football
competition, scoring five times in his four appearances for Senegal,
including his opener in the 1-1 draw with Great Britain.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv striker recently revealed his interest in a move to
West Ham. He was quoted as stating that: 'There is talk of interest from
West Ham and that would make me very happy' he said, adding 'I hope I can
move to the Premier League.' Certainly, West ham were the first PL club
alerted to Konate's ability and expressed an early interest in signing him.
However, there has since been interest from other clubs.
Consequently, it is as yet not clear just who Konate is currently
negotiating with? West Ham would look to be favourites, but it could be that
QPR or Spurs are involved? So, is Moussa's destination West Ham? I certainly
hope so, as he is exactly the type of young, talented striker that we should
be targeting. He is physically strong, leads the line well and scores goals.
And unlike the likes of Andy Carroll he appears to want to play for the
club; oh, and an added bonus is that he will not cost the club an absolute
fortune!
Some would probably see the signing as a bit of a gamble, but personally I
think he could be an absolute sensation in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cash back: West Ham top spenders as Football League clubs shell out £22m on
agent fees
The Mirror
West Ham spent more than £4million on agent fees last season - almost a
fifth of the total spend of £21.7million for the Football League clubs. The
figure is up on the previous season (£16,658,976), although clubs engaged in
more player transactions between the period July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
were down - 3,144 compared to 2,910 the year before. Championship clubs
accounted for £18.7million of this total, with League One and League Two
clubs spending £1.8million and £0.9million respectively. Clubs committed to
pay agents in 702 (22%) of the 3,144 player transactions that took place. In
the previous year it was 570 (20%) of 2,910 transactions. Five clubs
(Hartlepool, Accrington, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet and Crewe) did not spend any
money on agents' fees during 2011/12 while a further 22 clubs spent less
than £25,000.
In announcing the figures Football League chairman Greg Clarke said: "While
£21million is a lot of money leaving the game, it should also be noted that
a considerable amount of this total has been spent by a small number of
clubs. "In fact, almost a fifth of the overall figure was spent by one club
alone. "Where such spending forms part of a sustainable business plan it
shouldn't be of great concern and supporters should be encouraged to see our
clubs committing themselves to the new Financial Fair Play regulations that
will take effect across all three divisions in the new season. "In time,
these rules will require clubs to be more circumspect with regard to their
spending and may help reduce the costs incurred in this area."
Of the £18,704,976 spent on agents' fees by Championship clubs, West Ham
(£4,314,270) accounted for more than a quarter of the spending as they made
a successful return to the Premier League at the first attempt. Championship
title winners Reading (£1,662,163), Leicester (£1,812,371) and Crystal
Palace (£1,170,950) were the only other clubs to spend seven-figure sums on
fees. Those four clubs accounted for almost half (£8,959,754) of the total
spend in the division.
Champions Charlton (£265,170) and runners-up Sheffield Wednesday (£332,620)
were the biggest spenders on agents' fees in League One. Huddersfield
(£213,343), who were also promoted via the play-offs, had the fourth highest
total in the division. Hartlepool did not commit any money in agents' fees
and for the second year running were the only club in League One to do so.
League Two champions Swindon spent £448,506, accounting for 43% of the
£1,036,198 spent on agents' fees for that division. The only other club in
League Two to break into six-figures for fees was Crawley (£136,800), who
were promoted along with the Robins. Crewe managed to go up via the
play-offs without committing any money in agents' fees, while Accrington,
AFC Wimbledon and Barnet joined the Alex in not spending a penny on fees.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are ready for their final pre-season match at UEFA Champions
League hopefuls SC Braga
09.08.2012
West Ham United will complete their pre-season schedule with a
glamorous-looking visit to Portuguese side SC Braga on Friday evening.
However, glamour will be the furthest thing from the minds of the Hammers'
players, who only have eyes on putting on a performance against the UEFA
Champions League qualifiers. Assistant manager Neil McDonald said the squad
had been working hard since arriving in north west Portugal on Tuesday
evening and were relishing the test that awaits them at the unique and
stunning Estadio Municipal. With a squad boasting current Portugal
internationals Custodio and Hugo Viana and a host of talented Portuguese and
Brazilian players, Braga will be a force to be reckoned with. West Ham
arrived in Braga on Tuesday evening and have trained for the past two
mornings at the host club's old Primeiro de Maio home - a large open stadium
still used by Braga's junior teams. On Thursday afternoon, the players
enjoyed a core strength exercise session on the hotel lawn before taking a
dip in the swimming pool. Away from the pitch, the squad have also held a
series of meetings to plan for the Barclays Premier League campaign ahead -
starting with the visit of Aston Villa on Saturday 18 August. "Portugal has
been very good," said Macca. "We've been really well looked after again, as
we were in Austria and Germany earlier in pre-season. It's a fantastic hotel
and we're only five minutes away from our training ground at Braga's old
stadium, so there is plenty of history around. "We've done some really good
team and individual work and we'll finish it off with a game on Friday
against a team that is in the Champions League. We're also looking forward
to playing at one of the wonderful new stadia built for the European
Championship finals when they were in Portugal back in 2004. "It will be the
last game to try to sharpen everything up before we move into the final week
of pre-season."
West Ham's most-recent pre-season match saw the Hammers defeated 3-1 at
Ipswich Town - a result and performance that the assistant manager admitted
had not been good enough. Now, with just 90 minutes to put things right in a
match situation ahead of the Barclays Premier League campaign, Macca said
the players have upped their game on the training pitch ahead of Friday's
fixture.
"We've seen a response. They've trained really, really well and they've
taken the constructive criticism on board. We know we have over a week to go
and a lot of the work we have done since the Ipswich game has been a lot
sharper. "We're looking a lot brighter so we'll see how it goes on Friday.
We're looking for a better performance from each and every one of the
individuals involved on Friday, even though the result doesn't really
matter. I'm sure we'll get it."
Big Sam and Macca are known for their meticulous approach to every match and
the season opener is no different, meaning the squad will train at the
Boleyn Ground twice next week to get used to playing at their home stadium
again. Likewise, for new boys Jussi Jaaskelainen, Mohamed Diame, Modibo
Maiga and Raphael Spiegel, the sessions will give them a first feel of what
it is like to be in the home dressing room at the Academy of Football.
"We're going to go to the ground for a couple of days to reacquaint
ourselves with the stadium surroundings and being on the grass. We'll have a
couple of sharp training sessions there and then everybody will be itching
to get the game out of the way because it seems like ages since the fixture
list came out. "The gaffer said today that we're into single figures now -
we've only got nine days to go and we can't wait to get started."
*Assistant manager Neil McDonald will run the second of his new
ProSoccerSessions - coaching sessions for coaches - at the club's Chadwell
Heath training ground on Thursday 16 August. After a successful launch
earlier this month, McDonald who himself holds a UEFA Pro License, will be
hosting the scheme which is aimed at part-time football managers and
coaches. The session will again be run at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training
ground from 6.30pm to 9pm. The only qualification for attending the course
is that you currently manage or coach a recognised football team at any
level or you are a player aspiring to be a coach. McDonald said: "The first
session went really well. I tried to keep it to low numbers and everyone on
the first course has booked in for the next one, so they want to come back
and continue what we have started to work on which is good. We can go over
sessions again and there is a lot of new stuff to look at, but if anyone
else wants to join us on this one, they can. I am really looking forward to
meeting some more new coaches, as the last one was such a success."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tonks raring to go
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is aiming for a good start to the 2012/13 season after
competing at the Olympics
09.08.2012
James Tomkins has spoken about the pride he felt at representing Team GB at
the Olympics as his focus switches back to West Ham United and the Barclays
Premier League. Tomkins featured in two of Team GB's fixtures - a friendly
against Brazil and a group stage win against UAE - and he feels the
experience will benefit him when the new season kicks-off in just over a
week. Speaking from Portugal ahead of West Ham United's final pre-season
match against Braga on Friday night, the Basildon-born central defender
explained that he is now glad to back training with his club team-mates. "It
is great to be back with the lads," said Tomkins. "It is very nice out here,
we arrived on Tuesday and have already had a couple of good training
sessions. "The weather is also great which helps and it's obviously good to
see everyone again."
Tomkins also insisted that despite spending the majority of pre-season away
from the side he is ready to knuckle down ahead of the Premier League
curtain raiser against Aston Villa on 18 August. "We will have a lot more
training leading up to our final pre-season game with Braga and then the
beginning of the season. We are really looking forward to the match on
Friday. Playing it abroad always adds a nice touch and it will be nice to
see our fans out here in what will no doubt be a large crowd."
Tomkins and Team GB were knocked out at the quarter-final stage at the
Olympics after topping Group A with some impressive results. Now, after
sharing the stage with the likes of Ryan Giggs, Neymar and Luis Suarez, the
23-year-old is only focused on getting off to a flying start with the
Hammers. "I enjoyed being involved with Team GB and the experience of
playing at the Olympics experience was really good. It is a shame we didn't
get further and it finished the way it did, but overall it was very
enjoyable. "For me, I am focusing on the new season ahead with the first
game only round the corner and we're all really looking forward to playing
at home in the Premier League. "We want to make a good start and will be
working hard in training over the next week or so to make sure we ready for
the challenge ahead."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chambers signs new contract
WHUFC.com
17-year-old defender Leo Chambers has signed his first professional contract
with the club
09.08.2012
West Ham United are delighted to announce that England Under-16
international Leo Chambers has signed his first professional contract with
the club. The 17-year-old central defender continued to impress in Tony
Carr's Under-18 side last season and saw success at international level when
he captained his country as they lifted the Victory Shield. The Brixton-born
youngster has made the step up to Ian Hendon's Development Squad in recent
weeks and could be involved when they kick-off their Barclays Under-21
Premier League campaign against Reading on Friday 17 August. "I'm extremely
delighted to sign my first professional contract with West Ham United,"
Chambers said. "I've been working very hard but I believe this is only a
beginning. "I will continue to work hard with the youth team and hopefully
force my way into the Development Squad and the first team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers strike Diarra deal
Midfielder close to completing Upton Park switch
Last Updated: August 9, 2012 11:18am
SSN
Sky Sports understands that West Ham United have agreed a deal with
Marseille for France international midfielder Alou Diarra. The former
Liverpool enforcer arrived in England on Thursday morning to undergo a
medical and put the finishing touches to a move. It is believed that the
31-year-old will pen a two-year contract with the Hammers. Diarra was
expected to be on the move this summer after struggling to settle at
Marseille.
Future
He only joined the club in 2011, but failed to produce his best at Stade
Velodrome. He did make France's Euro 2012 squad, and started their first
game against England, but much of his focus has been on the future. Diarra
will be hoping that a return to England will help to bring the best out of
him and allow him to prove to those at Anfield that they were wrong to let
him go without making a senior appearance. His career took off after leaving
Anfield, with spells at Lens, Lyon and Bordeaux seeing him pick up two
French titles and two Coupe de la Ligue successes.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moussa Konate - Destination West Ham?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Kumb have reported that Senegalese media sources are stating that Olympic
striking sensation, Moussa Konate, is currently in London negotiating a move
to a PL club. The 19-year-old striker impressed in the Olympic football
competition, scoring five times in his four appearances for Senegal,
including his opener in the 1-1 draw with Great Britain.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv striker recently revealed his interest in a move to
West Ham. He was quoted as stating that: 'There is talk of interest from
West Ham and that would make me very happy' he said, adding 'I hope I can
move to the Premier League.' Certainly, West ham were the first PL club
alerted to Konate's ability and expressed an early interest in signing him.
However, there has since been interest from other clubs.
Consequently, it is as yet not clear just who Konate is currently
negotiating with? West Ham would look to be favourites, but it could be that
QPR or Spurs are involved? So, is Moussa's destination West Ham? I certainly
hope so, as he is exactly the type of young, talented striker that we should
be targeting. He is physically strong, leads the line well and scores goals.
And unlike the likes of Andy Carroll he appears to want to play for the
club; oh, and an added bonus is that he will not cost the club an absolute
fortune!
Some would probably see the signing as a bit of a gamble, but personally I
think he could be an absolute sensation in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
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Cash back: West Ham top spenders as Football League clubs shell out £22m on
agent fees
The Mirror
West Ham spent more than £4million on agent fees last season - almost a
fifth of the total spend of £21.7million for the Football League clubs. The
figure is up on the previous season (£16,658,976), although clubs engaged in
more player transactions between the period July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012
were down - 3,144 compared to 2,910 the year before. Championship clubs
accounted for £18.7million of this total, with League One and League Two
clubs spending £1.8million and £0.9million respectively. Clubs committed to
pay agents in 702 (22%) of the 3,144 player transactions that took place. In
the previous year it was 570 (20%) of 2,910 transactions. Five clubs
(Hartlepool, Accrington, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet and Crewe) did not spend any
money on agents' fees during 2011/12 while a further 22 clubs spent less
than £25,000.
In announcing the figures Football League chairman Greg Clarke said: "While
£21million is a lot of money leaving the game, it should also be noted that
a considerable amount of this total has been spent by a small number of
clubs. "In fact, almost a fifth of the overall figure was spent by one club
alone. "Where such spending forms part of a sustainable business plan it
shouldn't be of great concern and supporters should be encouraged to see our
clubs committing themselves to the new Financial Fair Play regulations that
will take effect across all three divisions in the new season. "In time,
these rules will require clubs to be more circumspect with regard to their
spending and may help reduce the costs incurred in this area."
Of the £18,704,976 spent on agents' fees by Championship clubs, West Ham
(£4,314,270) accounted for more than a quarter of the spending as they made
a successful return to the Premier League at the first attempt. Championship
title winners Reading (£1,662,163), Leicester (£1,812,371) and Crystal
Palace (£1,170,950) were the only other clubs to spend seven-figure sums on
fees. Those four clubs accounted for almost half (£8,959,754) of the total
spend in the division.
Champions Charlton (£265,170) and runners-up Sheffield Wednesday (£332,620)
were the biggest spenders on agents' fees in League One. Huddersfield
(£213,343), who were also promoted via the play-offs, had the fourth highest
total in the division. Hartlepool did not commit any money in agents' fees
and for the second year running were the only club in League One to do so.
League Two champions Swindon spent £448,506, accounting for 43% of the
£1,036,198 spent on agents' fees for that division. The only other club in
League Two to break into six-figures for fees was Crawley (£136,800), who
were promoted along with the Robins. Crewe managed to go up via the
play-offs without committing any money in agents' fees, while Accrington,
AFC Wimbledon and Barnet joined the Alex in not spending a penny on fees.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th August 2012
Big Sam backs Stratford vision
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has voiced his support for West Ham United's move to the Olympic Stadium
08.08.2012
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce believes it would be a 'Dream come true' if the Hammers' bid to move into the Olympic Stadium post-2012 is successful.
After watching the exploits of Team GB at the Games, Allardyce believes West Ham United could use their efforts as an inspiration to do bigger and better things on the football pitch should West Ham United be offered the chance to move to Stratford. The future of the Olympic Stadium is expected to be decided later this year, but Big Sam is excited about what the Stadium could provide if the Hammers were to make it their home. "It would be a dream come true and there is nothing I can say more certain than that," said Allardyce. "Everyone who is a part of West Ham United knows how much it would benefit the club if we were offered the chance.
"We've all seen the atmosphere, the surroundings, the walk up and it would take this club to another level if our bid is accepted."
Big Sam is an avid follower of all sport and has been inspired by Team GB's efforts, in particular Bradley Wiggins and Mark Hunter. He paid tribute to Wiggins, whilst stating that his side can learn from the 2012 Tour de France winner's hard work and dedication. "For me, the Bradley Wiggins story is a great one, you can physically see the difference between this Tour de France and the previous one. "It wasn't the gym, extra training and it wasn't physiological, he managed to lose three or four kilos so his body could stand the endurance at a lighter weight on the mountain climbs of the tour. "That takes huge dedication and is the kind of commitment our lads need to show in order to gain that extra advantage."
The club sent Olympic rower and lifelong West Ham United fan Hunter good luck messages ahead of his rowing final on Saturday and Allardyce hopes that Hunter's efforts in securing a silver medal will act as motivation for his players. "I know Mark is competing in the twos but he also rows individually," said Allardyce. "It's to his credit for the way in which he motivates himself to his particular sport. "We come in as a team and that means we can have a lot of fun, his training can be very lonely and pretty boring, but he still motivates himself to achieve his goal. "We have to do the same and make sure we don't become complacent, ensuring we get the maximum out of every training session."
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Alou Alou: Diarra on his way
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 9th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are on the verge of signing experienced French international Alou Diarra, according to reports emanating from across the Channel tonight. The 31-year-old was due to arrive in London on Thursday evening, according to trusted French football outlet L'Equipe. The much-travelled Diarra, who currently plays for French Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille is said to on his way to the UK in order to complete a medical before finalising a move to West Ham. A defensive midfielder, who can also be utilised in the centre of defence Diarra spent three years as a Liverpool player when he was signed by Gerard Houllier, a fellow Frenchman, in 2002 from Bayern Munich.
However he failed to make a single appearance for the Merseyside club and spent the three years contracted to the club on loan at Le Havre, Bastia and Lens - who he eventually joined on a permanent basis in 2005. The 6'3" Frenchman's most successful years followed thereafter as he moved to Lyon in 2006 - where he picked up a league-winners medal - and then on to Bordeaux in 2007 where he spent the next four years. It was during this stage in his career that he captained his country at the 2010 World Cup Finals, in their opening game of the tournament against hosts South Africa. Linked with clubs such as Manchester City in the past, Diarra moved to current club Marseille in July 2011 for €5million.
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Hurst back stadium move
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 9th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sir Geoff Hurst has backed West Ham's plans to move to the Olympic Stadium in 2014. With the official decision as to who has won the rights to the Stratford-based arena still some weeks away, the 1966 World Cup hero says that he would be delighted if his former club were given the keys. Speaking via his personal website, Hurst said: "Even now, 55 years after I first pulled on the claret and blue shirt, I remain a committed supporter of West Ham United, the club that has played a significant role in my career and my life. "Like most other West Ham fans I have a special attachment to the old stadium with all its memories of great times playing alongside legendary figures like Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Johnny Byrne, Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking. "But I accept that in the modern game the club has to evolve and move with the times if it is to remain competitive at the highest level. "Careful consideration has gone into the proposed move to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford and I feel strongly that the club should, given the opportunity, move into this state-of-the-art facility. "There are so many advantages involved in moving to the Olympic Stadium," he continued. "Better facilities, easy access - and, of course, we would remain in our 'manor' preserving the unique East End identity of the club. I made 500 appearances for West Ham and would have loved the opportunity of playing regularly on such a magnificent stage. "Instead, the current team, newly-promoted to the Premier League, and all those players who follow in the years ahead may now have that chance. The challenge will be for them to fill the stadium with 60,000 cheering West Ham fans. It is an exciting prospect."
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Mohsni in limbo
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 8th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are still hoping to conclude a deal with Southend United for defender Bilel Mohsni. The 25-year-old Frenchman, who has also featured for his current club as a striker was the subject of a bid, reported to be in the region of £150,000, from West Ham last week. And despit some sources claiming that Southend had rejected the offer, it is understood that West Ham's offer remains on the table. Mohsni is the only one of the club's latest batch of triallists that West Ham are interesting in signing on a permanent basis. Dutch defender Michael Lamey, who featured for the Hammers during their recent pre-season tour of Germany was released shortly after. Meanwhile Colin Kazim-Richards, who also represented United in four pre-season fixtures was similarly let go without being offered a permanent contract - despite scoring in the 2-2 draw against Energie Cottbus last week. The former Sheffield United striker, who has spent the last few years of his career playing in Turkey in now hoping to secure a loan move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers, who were relegated from the Premier League last season.
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Konate set for England
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 8th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Reports from Senegal suggest that Moussa Konate is currently in London negotiating a move to England. The 19-year-old striker has been one of the biggest succeses of the Olympic football tournament, scoring five times in his four appearances during the games - making him the competition's second-highest goalscorer. Just last week, the Maccabi Tel Aviv forward revealed that he would be interested in a move to West Ham after he was linked with the Hammers. "There is talk of interest from West Ham and that would make me very happy," he said, adding ""I hope I can move to the Premier League."
This morning, reports from Senegalese media claimed that Konate was set to achieve his dream move - although his exact destination remains unclear. Speaking via Twitter, a journalist reporting on behalf of the Senegalese Football Federation said: "I can't confirm where yet but London 2012 star Moussa Konate is in the midst of negotiations for a transfer to England."
Senegal, who drew 1-1 with Great Britain - a game in which Konate opened his account for the tournament - were knocked out of the competition by Mexico in the first knockout phase. Further to that goal the young striker scored twice against Uruguay, once against the United Arab Emirates before closing his account with a goal against Mexico.
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Bye bye badman
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 6th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has completed his loan move to Championship side Birmingham City. The 19-year-old midfielder has left West Ham just six months after joining from Manchester United in a cut-price deal - as revealed here on KUMB.com last night. The reasons for Morrison's departure remain shrouded in mystery although a string of unconfirmed rumours point to an altercation with a member of Sam Allardyce's backroom staff. The move was confirmed by the midlands club today; a short statement on bcfc.com reading: "The highly-rated 19-year-old arrives at St. Andrew's from the Barclays Premier League club looking to gain further first-team experience and will bolster Lee Clark's midfield ranks. "Morrison has been given first-team squad number 12 for the 2012/13 campaign."
The former England youth international made just one appearance for West Ham's first team following his move from Manchester, in the 1-1 draw at Leeds where he was an 81st-minute substitute.
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Moussa Konate - Destination West Ham?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Kumb have reported that Senegalese media sources are stating that Olympic striking sensation, Moussa Konate, is currently in London negotiating a move to a PL club. The 19-year-old striker impressed in the Olympic football competition, scoring five times in his four appearances for Senegal, including his opener in the 1-1 draw with Great Britain.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv striker recently revealed his interest in a move to West Ham. He was quoted as stating that: 'There is talk of interest from West Ham and that would make me very happy' he said, adding 'I hope I can move to the Premier League.' Certainly, West ham were the first PL club alerted to Konate's ability and expressed an early interest in signing him. However, there has since been interest from other clubs.
Consequently, it is as yet not clear just who Konate is currently negotiating with? West Ham would look to be favourites, but it could be that QPR or Spurs are involved? So, is Moussa's destination West Ham? I certainly hope so, as he is exactly the type of young, talented striker that we should be targeting. He is physically strong, leads the line well and scores goals. And unlike the likes of Andy Carroll he appears to want to play for the club; oh, and an added bonus is that he will not cost the club an absolute fortune!
Some would probably see the signing as a bit of a gamble, but personally I think he could be an absolute sensation in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
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Stadium is key to Sam's plans
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today at 00:00
The SUn
SAM ALLARDYCE reckons West Ham will become a European football force if they get the keys to the Olympic Stadium. The Hammers expect to finally find out next month whether their bid to lease the acclaimed arena after the Games has been successful. And boss Big Sam said: "Everyone who is a part of West Ham United knows how much it would benefit the club. "It would take this club to another level if our bid is accepted." West Ham plan to honour Team GB rower Mark Hunter, who won silver in the double sculls. The Eastender is a big Hammers fan and will be invited to join the squad for a training session in recognition of his efforts on the water — and to provide Big Sam's players with inspiration. Allardyce said: "It's to his credit the way he motivates himself. "We come in as a team and we can have a lot of fun. His training can be very lonely but he still motivates himself."
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Emmanuel Adebayor an option for ambitious West Ham?
HereIsTheCity.com
by Dan Coombs
@hitcdancoombs
With respective deals for Andy Carroll and with Tottenham Hotspur seemingly falling through, could West Ham and Emmanuel Adebayor solve each others' problems?
Here's one to consider, and it might just work out all round. With Sam Allardyce seemingly giving up on his long winded pursuit of Andy Carroll, it's time he looked at other targets. A fruitless sojourn around Europe has already proved largely unsuccessful for Big Sam, and with the season two weeks away he would be wise to look close to home in the Premier League for an alternative. One of the league's most dangerous, if at times controversial, strikers is available - and that man is Emmanuel Adebayor. He was loaned to Tottenham last season, scoring an impressive 17 league goals in 32 starts. He may have his quirks but there is no denying his quality, and he would be a striker with the ability to turn the Hammers into contenders to even finish in the league's top half. An obvious concern to the chances of this deal is the financial implications, but just because Tottenham are being cautious, it doesn't mean West Ham have to be. Spurs are unlikely to move for the Togo striker until Luka Modric's future is sorted out, and as the days go by, him heading back to the Lane appears ever more unlikely. Manchester City are desperate to get rid of him. It was reported they were asking for a £6 million fee, but as time goes on this figure is only going to creep downwards. The important thing to consider here is the investment David Gold and Sullivan are ready to make for West Ham. They were ready to lay out big to sign Andy Carroll, and bringing in Adebayor would surely not work out more expensive. If West Ham cannot afford to bring in Adebayor permanently, they may wish to consider bringing him in on loan for the season with a view to buy, but stumping up the majority of his wages. This would keep Manchester City happy, and the player, who would not have to take a cut. His contract at City runs until 2014 and he is clearly keen to maximise his money, but a year on, City may be keener to buy him out of it when there is just one year remaining simply to get him off their books, but at present this would be too costly, even for City.
The striker may see West Ham as a step down considering 18 months ago he was playing for Real Madrid, but right now he has to be realistic about his options, and he doesn't have many, save for sitting in City's reserves. If West Ham can come up with the right package, which suits them, Adebayor, and Manchester City, then it is a deal worth pursuing. The Andy Carroll chase showed the club do have funds ready to commit if necessary, and Adebayor would be a further instant improvement to a side which already looks like it has the makings of being very capable this coming season.
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Nolan offers ultimate value to be West Ham's top scorer this season
News.ladbrokes.com
Kevin Nolan is a definite starter and has scored 10+ goals in each of the last three seasons. Considering Kevin Nolan was West Ham's second top scorer in the Championship last season, 10/1 looks massive value that he tops the scoring charts for the Hammers in their first campaign back in the Premier League. Carlton Cole has been West Ham's top scorer in three of the last four seasons and is 6/4 to end the coming campaign with this accolade again. Last season was his best ever goal return of 14 league goals in the Championship, but he has never managed more than ten in a Premier League season. Meanwhile, there is every chance that Cole will not be guaranteed as many starts this season, with West Ham likely to employ a single striker and Modibo Maiga arriving from Sochaux to provide competition. Manager Sam Allardyce arguably had his doubts over Cole at Championship level with 12 of his 43 appearances coming via the bench and he could spend more games there this campaign.
His chase of Andy Carroll was further proof that he is unsure about Cole's capabilities at Premier League level. Maiga's pace and dynamic style should be suited to the Premier League, but he seemed to enjoy greater success in France when in a two-man attack, so his potential may also be stifled if picked as a lone frontman.
Given that he may also need time to settle into England, 5/1 is a fair price that he is West Ham's top scorer. Nolan has no such issues and will be the first name on Allardyce's teamsheet as the Hammers' captain. The midfielder has once again proved his eye for goal by netting 41 league goals in his last three seasons, with his lowest total in a single campaign being 12. Nolan additionally has the advantage of having previously scored goals in the Premier League over countless seasons, which is not something that is true of the majority of the squad. Ricardo Vaz Te had a spell at Bolton, but found first-team opportunities hard to come by, while this is Nicky Maynard's first crack at England's top flight.
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Upton Park to provide West Ham home comforts in coming year
News.ladbrokes.com
With uncertainty still ongoing regarding the future use of the Olympic Stadium, Ladbrokes' 2/5 about West Ham playing all their Premier League home games at Upton Park next season looks a terrific bet. While most still expect the Hammers to eventually be granted permission to call the Olympic Stadium their home, it seems extremely far-fetched to suggest that it could happen as early as this season. Indeed, when initially outlining plans to move into the purpose-built ground, it was said by Hammers chiefs that they could envisage such a scenario 'as early as 2014.' The club's chief executive Karen Brady also told the London Evening Standard as recently as two weeks ago: "Nobody is better placed to deliver the legacy for London than West Ham United. "Our proposal would ensure a vibrant, busy stadium immediately upon the opening of the venue in 2014."
A decision on the future inhabitants of the stadium is expected in October of this year, though despite Brady's comments, it is not necessarily a foregone conclusion that West Ham will be chosen. Tottenham were initially thought to be at the forefront of potential candidates for the stadium, and maintain ambitions of redeveloping the National Sports Centre at Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Leyton Orient also lodged a bid to take over the stadium, and despite having a significantly smaller fan base than their competitors, a ground share with West Ham is not out of the question. Of course, such circumstances would delay the process of the Hammers moving into the stadium yet further. All things considered, it simply doesn't seem plausible for West Ham to complete a move into the Olympic Stadium prior to the end of this season, if they eventually do so at all. Therefore, the 2/5 odds about them hosting each of their home Premier League matches at Upton Park this term look well worth taking advantage of.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has voiced his support for West Ham United's move to the Olympic Stadium
08.08.2012
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce believes it would be a 'Dream come true' if the Hammers' bid to move into the Olympic Stadium post-2012 is successful.
After watching the exploits of Team GB at the Games, Allardyce believes West Ham United could use their efforts as an inspiration to do bigger and better things on the football pitch should West Ham United be offered the chance to move to Stratford. The future of the Olympic Stadium is expected to be decided later this year, but Big Sam is excited about what the Stadium could provide if the Hammers were to make it their home. "It would be a dream come true and there is nothing I can say more certain than that," said Allardyce. "Everyone who is a part of West Ham United knows how much it would benefit the club if we were offered the chance.
"We've all seen the atmosphere, the surroundings, the walk up and it would take this club to another level if our bid is accepted."
Big Sam is an avid follower of all sport and has been inspired by Team GB's efforts, in particular Bradley Wiggins and Mark Hunter. He paid tribute to Wiggins, whilst stating that his side can learn from the 2012 Tour de France winner's hard work and dedication. "For me, the Bradley Wiggins story is a great one, you can physically see the difference between this Tour de France and the previous one. "It wasn't the gym, extra training and it wasn't physiological, he managed to lose three or four kilos so his body could stand the endurance at a lighter weight on the mountain climbs of the tour. "That takes huge dedication and is the kind of commitment our lads need to show in order to gain that extra advantage."
The club sent Olympic rower and lifelong West Ham United fan Hunter good luck messages ahead of his rowing final on Saturday and Allardyce hopes that Hunter's efforts in securing a silver medal will act as motivation for his players. "I know Mark is competing in the twos but he also rows individually," said Allardyce. "It's to his credit for the way in which he motivates himself to his particular sport. "We come in as a team and that means we can have a lot of fun, his training can be very lonely and pretty boring, but he still motivates himself to achieve his goal. "We have to do the same and make sure we don't become complacent, ensuring we get the maximum out of every training session."
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Alou Alou: Diarra on his way
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 9th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are on the verge of signing experienced French international Alou Diarra, according to reports emanating from across the Channel tonight. The 31-year-old was due to arrive in London on Thursday evening, according to trusted French football outlet L'Equipe. The much-travelled Diarra, who currently plays for French Ligue 1 side Olympique de Marseille is said to on his way to the UK in order to complete a medical before finalising a move to West Ham. A defensive midfielder, who can also be utilised in the centre of defence Diarra spent three years as a Liverpool player when he was signed by Gerard Houllier, a fellow Frenchman, in 2002 from Bayern Munich.
However he failed to make a single appearance for the Merseyside club and spent the three years contracted to the club on loan at Le Havre, Bastia and Lens - who he eventually joined on a permanent basis in 2005. The 6'3" Frenchman's most successful years followed thereafter as he moved to Lyon in 2006 - where he picked up a league-winners medal - and then on to Bordeaux in 2007 where he spent the next four years. It was during this stage in his career that he captained his country at the 2010 World Cup Finals, in their opening game of the tournament against hosts South Africa. Linked with clubs such as Manchester City in the past, Diarra moved to current club Marseille in July 2011 for €5million.
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Hurst back stadium move
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 9th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sir Geoff Hurst has backed West Ham's plans to move to the Olympic Stadium in 2014. With the official decision as to who has won the rights to the Stratford-based arena still some weeks away, the 1966 World Cup hero says that he would be delighted if his former club were given the keys. Speaking via his personal website, Hurst said: "Even now, 55 years after I first pulled on the claret and blue shirt, I remain a committed supporter of West Ham United, the club that has played a significant role in my career and my life. "Like most other West Ham fans I have a special attachment to the old stadium with all its memories of great times playing alongside legendary figures like Bobby Moore, Martin Peters, Johnny Byrne, Billy Bonds and Trevor Brooking. "But I accept that in the modern game the club has to evolve and move with the times if it is to remain competitive at the highest level. "Careful consideration has gone into the proposed move to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford and I feel strongly that the club should, given the opportunity, move into this state-of-the-art facility. "There are so many advantages involved in moving to the Olympic Stadium," he continued. "Better facilities, easy access - and, of course, we would remain in our 'manor' preserving the unique East End identity of the club. I made 500 appearances for West Ham and would have loved the opportunity of playing regularly on such a magnificent stage. "Instead, the current team, newly-promoted to the Premier League, and all those players who follow in the years ahead may now have that chance. The challenge will be for them to fill the stadium with 60,000 cheering West Ham fans. It is an exciting prospect."
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Mohsni in limbo
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 8th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are still hoping to conclude a deal with Southend United for defender Bilel Mohsni. The 25-year-old Frenchman, who has also featured for his current club as a striker was the subject of a bid, reported to be in the region of £150,000, from West Ham last week. And despit some sources claiming that Southend had rejected the offer, it is understood that West Ham's offer remains on the table. Mohsni is the only one of the club's latest batch of triallists that West Ham are interesting in signing on a permanent basis. Dutch defender Michael Lamey, who featured for the Hammers during their recent pre-season tour of Germany was released shortly after. Meanwhile Colin Kazim-Richards, who also represented United in four pre-season fixtures was similarly let go without being offered a permanent contract - despite scoring in the 2-2 draw against Energie Cottbus last week. The former Sheffield United striker, who has spent the last few years of his career playing in Turkey in now hoping to secure a loan move to Championship side Blackburn Rovers, who were relegated from the Premier League last season.
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Konate set for England
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 8th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Reports from Senegal suggest that Moussa Konate is currently in London negotiating a move to England. The 19-year-old striker has been one of the biggest succeses of the Olympic football tournament, scoring five times in his four appearances during the games - making him the competition's second-highest goalscorer. Just last week, the Maccabi Tel Aviv forward revealed that he would be interested in a move to West Ham after he was linked with the Hammers. "There is talk of interest from West Ham and that would make me very happy," he said, adding ""I hope I can move to the Premier League."
This morning, reports from Senegalese media claimed that Konate was set to achieve his dream move - although his exact destination remains unclear. Speaking via Twitter, a journalist reporting on behalf of the Senegalese Football Federation said: "I can't confirm where yet but London 2012 star Moussa Konate is in the midst of negotiations for a transfer to England."
Senegal, who drew 1-1 with Great Britain - a game in which Konate opened his account for the tournament - were knocked out of the competition by Mexico in the first knockout phase. Further to that goal the young striker scored twice against Uruguay, once against the United Arab Emirates before closing his account with a goal against Mexico.
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Bye bye badman
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 6th August 2012
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has completed his loan move to Championship side Birmingham City. The 19-year-old midfielder has left West Ham just six months after joining from Manchester United in a cut-price deal - as revealed here on KUMB.com last night. The reasons for Morrison's departure remain shrouded in mystery although a string of unconfirmed rumours point to an altercation with a member of Sam Allardyce's backroom staff. The move was confirmed by the midlands club today; a short statement on bcfc.com reading: "The highly-rated 19-year-old arrives at St. Andrew's from the Barclays Premier League club looking to gain further first-team experience and will bolster Lee Clark's midfield ranks. "Morrison has been given first-team squad number 12 for the 2012/13 campaign."
The former England youth international made just one appearance for West Ham's first team following his move from Manchester, in the 1-1 draw at Leeds where he was an 81st-minute substitute.
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Moussa Konate - Destination West Ham?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Kumb have reported that Senegalese media sources are stating that Olympic striking sensation, Moussa Konate, is currently in London negotiating a move to a PL club. The 19-year-old striker impressed in the Olympic football competition, scoring five times in his four appearances for Senegal, including his opener in the 1-1 draw with Great Britain.
The Maccabi Tel Aviv striker recently revealed his interest in a move to West Ham. He was quoted as stating that: 'There is talk of interest from West Ham and that would make me very happy' he said, adding 'I hope I can move to the Premier League.' Certainly, West ham were the first PL club alerted to Konate's ability and expressed an early interest in signing him. However, there has since been interest from other clubs.
Consequently, it is as yet not clear just who Konate is currently negotiating with? West Ham would look to be favourites, but it could be that QPR or Spurs are involved? So, is Moussa's destination West Ham? I certainly hope so, as he is exactly the type of young, talented striker that we should be targeting. He is physically strong, leads the line well and scores goals. And unlike the likes of Andy Carroll he appears to want to play for the club; oh, and an added bonus is that he will not cost the club an absolute fortune!
Some would probably see the signing as a bit of a gamble, but personally I think he could be an absolute sensation in the PL.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stadium is key to Sam's plans
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today at 00:00
The SUn
SAM ALLARDYCE reckons West Ham will become a European football force if they get the keys to the Olympic Stadium. The Hammers expect to finally find out next month whether their bid to lease the acclaimed arena after the Games has been successful. And boss Big Sam said: "Everyone who is a part of West Ham United knows how much it would benefit the club. "It would take this club to another level if our bid is accepted." West Ham plan to honour Team GB rower Mark Hunter, who won silver in the double sculls. The Eastender is a big Hammers fan and will be invited to join the squad for a training session in recognition of his efforts on the water — and to provide Big Sam's players with inspiration. Allardyce said: "It's to his credit the way he motivates himself. "We come in as a team and we can have a lot of fun. His training can be very lonely but he still motivates himself."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emmanuel Adebayor an option for ambitious West Ham?
HereIsTheCity.com
by Dan Coombs
@hitcdancoombs
With respective deals for Andy Carroll and with Tottenham Hotspur seemingly falling through, could West Ham and Emmanuel Adebayor solve each others' problems?
Here's one to consider, and it might just work out all round. With Sam Allardyce seemingly giving up on his long winded pursuit of Andy Carroll, it's time he looked at other targets. A fruitless sojourn around Europe has already proved largely unsuccessful for Big Sam, and with the season two weeks away he would be wise to look close to home in the Premier League for an alternative. One of the league's most dangerous, if at times controversial, strikers is available - and that man is Emmanuel Adebayor. He was loaned to Tottenham last season, scoring an impressive 17 league goals in 32 starts. He may have his quirks but there is no denying his quality, and he would be a striker with the ability to turn the Hammers into contenders to even finish in the league's top half. An obvious concern to the chances of this deal is the financial implications, but just because Tottenham are being cautious, it doesn't mean West Ham have to be. Spurs are unlikely to move for the Togo striker until Luka Modric's future is sorted out, and as the days go by, him heading back to the Lane appears ever more unlikely. Manchester City are desperate to get rid of him. It was reported they were asking for a £6 million fee, but as time goes on this figure is only going to creep downwards. The important thing to consider here is the investment David Gold and Sullivan are ready to make for West Ham. They were ready to lay out big to sign Andy Carroll, and bringing in Adebayor would surely not work out more expensive. If West Ham cannot afford to bring in Adebayor permanently, they may wish to consider bringing him in on loan for the season with a view to buy, but stumping up the majority of his wages. This would keep Manchester City happy, and the player, who would not have to take a cut. His contract at City runs until 2014 and he is clearly keen to maximise his money, but a year on, City may be keener to buy him out of it when there is just one year remaining simply to get him off their books, but at present this would be too costly, even for City.
The striker may see West Ham as a step down considering 18 months ago he was playing for Real Madrid, but right now he has to be realistic about his options, and he doesn't have many, save for sitting in City's reserves. If West Ham can come up with the right package, which suits them, Adebayor, and Manchester City, then it is a deal worth pursuing. The Andy Carroll chase showed the club do have funds ready to commit if necessary, and Adebayor would be a further instant improvement to a side which already looks like it has the makings of being very capable this coming season.
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Nolan offers ultimate value to be West Ham's top scorer this season
News.ladbrokes.com
Kevin Nolan is a definite starter and has scored 10+ goals in each of the last three seasons. Considering Kevin Nolan was West Ham's second top scorer in the Championship last season, 10/1 looks massive value that he tops the scoring charts for the Hammers in their first campaign back in the Premier League. Carlton Cole has been West Ham's top scorer in three of the last four seasons and is 6/4 to end the coming campaign with this accolade again. Last season was his best ever goal return of 14 league goals in the Championship, but he has never managed more than ten in a Premier League season. Meanwhile, there is every chance that Cole will not be guaranteed as many starts this season, with West Ham likely to employ a single striker and Modibo Maiga arriving from Sochaux to provide competition. Manager Sam Allardyce arguably had his doubts over Cole at Championship level with 12 of his 43 appearances coming via the bench and he could spend more games there this campaign.
His chase of Andy Carroll was further proof that he is unsure about Cole's capabilities at Premier League level. Maiga's pace and dynamic style should be suited to the Premier League, but he seemed to enjoy greater success in France when in a two-man attack, so his potential may also be stifled if picked as a lone frontman.
Given that he may also need time to settle into England, 5/1 is a fair price that he is West Ham's top scorer. Nolan has no such issues and will be the first name on Allardyce's teamsheet as the Hammers' captain. The midfielder has once again proved his eye for goal by netting 41 league goals in his last three seasons, with his lowest total in a single campaign being 12. Nolan additionally has the advantage of having previously scored goals in the Premier League over countless seasons, which is not something that is true of the majority of the squad. Ricardo Vaz Te had a spell at Bolton, but found first-team opportunities hard to come by, while this is Nicky Maynard's first crack at England's top flight.
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Upton Park to provide West Ham home comforts in coming year
News.ladbrokes.com
With uncertainty still ongoing regarding the future use of the Olympic Stadium, Ladbrokes' 2/5 about West Ham playing all their Premier League home games at Upton Park next season looks a terrific bet. While most still expect the Hammers to eventually be granted permission to call the Olympic Stadium their home, it seems extremely far-fetched to suggest that it could happen as early as this season. Indeed, when initially outlining plans to move into the purpose-built ground, it was said by Hammers chiefs that they could envisage such a scenario 'as early as 2014.' The club's chief executive Karen Brady also told the London Evening Standard as recently as two weeks ago: "Nobody is better placed to deliver the legacy for London than West Ham United. "Our proposal would ensure a vibrant, busy stadium immediately upon the opening of the venue in 2014."
A decision on the future inhabitants of the stadium is expected in October of this year, though despite Brady's comments, it is not necessarily a foregone conclusion that West Ham will be chosen. Tottenham were initially thought to be at the forefront of potential candidates for the stadium, and maintain ambitions of redeveloping the National Sports Centre at Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Leyton Orient also lodged a bid to take over the stadium, and despite having a significantly smaller fan base than their competitors, a ground share with West Ham is not out of the question. Of course, such circumstances would delay the process of the Hammers moving into the stadium yet further. All things considered, it simply doesn't seem plausible for West Ham to complete a move into the Olympic Stadium prior to the end of this season, if they eventually do so at all. Therefore, the 2/5 odds about them hosting each of their home Premier League matches at Upton Park this term look well worth taking advantage of.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 8
Daily WHUFC News - 8th August 2012
Vaz excited by Portugal return
WHUFC.com
Ricardo Vaz Te is looking forward to representing the Hammers in his
homeland
07.08.2012
Ricardo Vaz Te is looking forward to returning to Portugal for Friday's
pre-season meeting with SC Braga - but insisted his main focus will be
helping West Ham United to prepare for the Barclays Premier League season.
The former Portugal Under-21 international came through the ranks at
Sporting Lisbon before moving to England at the age of 16 and admitted it
will be special to return to play in his homeland. Lisbon-born Vaz Te twice
appeared for Bolton Wanderers against Portuguese opposition in the UEFA Cup,
scoring against Vitoria de Guimaraes in November 2005 and appearing against
old club Sporting in March 2008. Speaking to West Ham TV before flying out
with his team-mates on Tuesday, the No12 stated that he would not be
overawed by the occasion and that he would remain focussed on the task at
hand. "It's always a warm feeling to play at home," said Vaz Te. "I had the
chance to play in the UEFA Cup in Portugal in the past and the motivation is
always there in front of a home crowd. "That said, I need to focus on the
main thing and that is playing well for West Ham United, making sure I
Improve and work hard ahead of the new season rather than concentrating on
the occasion."
Vaz Te also conceded that both he and his side will need to step it up a
gear against a higher calibre of opponent - Braga finished third in the
Portuguese Primeira Liga last season to qualify for the UEFA Champions
League. "Braga is a higher challenge. They finished third in their league
last season and did ever so well. It's going to be a difficult game for us.
"It will be a week before the season starts so we will be fit and ready, but
the result does not matter so much in pre-season. What is important is that
we put in a good shift, work on what we need to, and continue to gel ahead
of the new season."
The former Bolton man also paid tribute to Braga for achieving what he
believes is massive breakthrough in Portuguese football - breaking the
monopoly of the big three clubs FC Porto, Sporting and Benfica. "What they
have achieved is fantastic. They don't spend a lot of money compared to the
top three but they have still managed to compete. "Porto and Benfica have
dominated for much of the last decade, and although Sporting do not spend as
much money they always compete by producing fantastic young players on a
regular basis. "Braga were very impressive last season, they finished third
in the league and were top during some points at the season. "The way in
which they've progressed over the past five years both domestically and in
Europe, where they reached the Europa League final in 2011, has been
fantastic. "They will provide a good test for us and prepare us for the
Premier League season where we will face a similar level of opposition week
in week out."
The Hammers went down 3-1 to an impressive Ipswich Town side on Saturday,
but Vaz Te feels positives can be taken even in defeat. "I think pre-season
has been going well, we can take a lot of positives from each game. We now
need address the negatives from Saturday but our fitness and performances
are improving every week. "Overall our preparation has been good, the staff
and set-up are great and everything we do has a purpose. "We had a bad
result but we will learn from that, we will work hard and do everything we
can to ensure we hit the ground running on August 18."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Northampton nick late win
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad lost out 3-1 at npower League Two side Northampton
Town on Tuesday
07.08.2012
Sam Baldock was on target as the Development Squad lost out 3-1 at npower
League Two side Northampton Town on Tuesday. With a 20-man first-team squad
away in Portugal ahead of Friday's clash with SC Braga, Ian Hendon took a
side mixing youth and experience to the Sixfields Stadium, with Baldock
joined in the starting lineup by Frederic Piquionne, Jordan Spence and Rob
Hall. Managed by Aidy Boothroyd, Northampton featured former Hammers
left-back Joe Widdowson in their starting XI, while striker Clive Platt
netted for Coventry City against West Ham in the npower Championship last
season. Both sides traded chances during an entertaining 90 minutes, with
Piquionne particularly unlucky not to add to the hat-trick he netted in
Saturday's victory at AFC Wimbledon. Jack Powell, Baldock and Hall also saw
opportunities go begging. As it was, Platt's early opener was cancelled out
by Baldock five minutes after half-time, but two goals in the final 20
minutes from Kelvin Langmead and Alex Nicholls gave the Cobblers the win.
Speaking after the game, coach Ian Hendon was pleased with his side's
overall performance and believes with a little more luck they could have
come away with a win. "We played very well tonight and I won't criticise the
lads because on another night they could have come away with a lot more from
that performance.
"Jack hit the crossbar when we were 1-0 down with a free-kick and Sam
Baldock had one hit him that could have gone anywhere, but unfortunately for
us it wasn't to be."
Hendon was pleased with his side's response as the Hammers applied immense
pressure during the latter stages of the first half, with Baldock and Rob
Hall both going close. "The team reacted well and like I said before with a
bit more luck we could have found ourselves back in the game when we went
2-1 down. We have a little bit of work to do this week with a few days
before we face Dagenham and Redbridge, but we played well and we will
continue to do so. "A few of the lads may need a rest with the start of the
season just ten days away, but that will give a few of the younger members
of the squad a good opportunity against a good team."
Hendon also believes that disappointing results will only serve to benefit
the youngsters in his team, explaining that in order for them to progress
they need to experience both sides of the game. "It was basic defending from
a set piece that cost us tonight, and although that is disappointing we are
playing with 16-year-olds against big, powerful, experienced centre
forwards. "The clue is in the title 'Development Squad' and that's what I'm
seeing during every week. We did well to get ourselves back into the game
and we continued to create chances which is pleasing. The scoreline is
misleading as we were much better than it suggests."
Hall impressed once more and Hendon is delighted with his reaction after
returning to the Development Squad following a spell with the first team.
"Rob is listening, learning, and getting better day by day. He may find this
season that he drops in and out, but if he keeps his consistency up then he
will continue to impress regardless of what side he is in."
Hendon also praised the West Ham supporters who turned out in force, with
269 traveling to the Sixfields Stadium. The Development Squad travel to
Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday to round off their pre-season
preparations before facing Reading in their first Barclays Under-21 Premier
League match at the Rush Green Stadium on Friday 17 August at 7pm.
Development Squad: Larkins, Chambers, Fanimo, Powell, Spence, Wearen,
Baldock, Lletget, Piquionne, Turgott, Hall
Subs: Guzman Rosique, McCallum, Vose, Miles, Sadlier, Shaw, D.Tombides
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers proud of Olympic heroes
WHUFC.com
All at West Ham United have taken great pleasure in seeing their local stars
shine at the Olympics
07.08.2012
West Ham United are extremely proud of the exploits of its local athletes at
this summer's Olympic Games. East London has provided some of the stars of
the games so far and all at the club are delighted with the successes seen
to date. The performances of the likes of Hammers fans Mark Hunter and
Stuart Hayes and local ladies Christine Ohuruogu and Perri Shakes-Drayton
have only served to motivate all at the club ahead of their Barclays Premier
League return. Sam Allardyce and the first-team squad posted a video to spur
Hunter on ahead of his lightweight men's double sculls final on Saturday and
he responded by adding a Silver medal to his Beijing gold. Hunter and
partner Zac Purchase had to overcome a broken seat but powered on to a
Silver after being pipped at the finish by Denmark. The West Ham fanatic was
soon followed onto the podium by Ohuruogu, who secured Silver after an
inspired finish in the 400m. The 2008 Olympic champion looked beaten but
rallied in the final 50 metres to surge home in second, coming agonisingly
close to a second Gold medal. Shakes-Drayton just missed out on a place in
the 400m hurdles final on Monday night. Shakes-Drayton, who was born and
raised in Bow, finished third in her semi-final, but at the age of just 23,
it is likely she will only get better. On Tuesday, Hammers fan Hayes played
a vital role in helping the Brownlee brothers secure the Gold and Bronze
medals in the men's triathlon. Hayes set the pace during the middle cycling
stage of the race around central London, paving the way for Alistair to win
and Jonny to secure third place.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ricardo Vaz stay
Published: 07th August 2012
The Sun
RICARDO VAZ TE has denied that he is ready to quit West Ham. The striker
grabbed the play-off winner that took the Hammers back to the top-flight.
But it has been suggested he is ready to leave over a wage row. Vaz Te said:
"I need to focus on the main thing — playing well for West Ham and making
sure I improve."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Baldock and Dylan Tombides....
http://westhamclaretinmyblood.blogspot.co.uk
Last night a West Ham Development Squad team played a match against
Northampton and lost 3-1. The score and the details are not important, but
the team sheet is. The 20 man first team squad has gone out to Portugal to
play SC Braga on Friday, and one name not among them is Sam Baldock. For
me, that's a shame, as I rate him and think that given time and chances, he
would become a valuable tool for West Ham's upcoming PL season. However, it
appears that the club has other ideas, and this can only be yet another sign
that Baldock is destined for other pastures. That's a pity: he's creative
and has potential, but I suppose there's no room for him in a 451?
More positive news though is that Dylan Tombides, young Australian and West
Ham Academy prospect, was back on the bench for this game. Dylan was
diagnosed with testicular cancer last year after getting hit in the groin in
game against Brazil for his native Australia, and he has been undergoing
surgery and chemotherapy for a year to fight it. The details of his battle
are humbling, but the signs are good for him, particularly given his
appearance on the bench yesterday, although it is only a start. Dylan's
stated desire is to play for West Ham and seems to have given him the
momentum to battle through the cancer. All I can say is, regardless of
football, I'm glad to hear a young lad has battled on and not given up hope
for his career. Well done, Dylan, and keep up the fight.
It is well worth reading May's Daily Mail article on Dylan's diagnosis,
battle, and steps to recovery
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vaz Te dismisses talk of West Ham exit
By talkSPORT | Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Ricardo Vaz Te has brushed aside speculation linking him with a move away
from Upton Park and insists he is ready to become a major star for West Ham
in the Premier League next season.
Vaz Te scored the crucial winner in the play-off final at Wembley back in
May which helped the east London club gain promotion back to the top-flight.
But reports in the summer suggested that the Portuguese striker was ready to
quit the club over wage demands and felt he deserved parity with the top
earners.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce will be desperate to keep Vaz Te after being
frustrated in his attempts to bring a big name forward to the club after
Andy Carroll rejected the chance to join the Hammers.
Vaz Te insists he is happy to stay and is focused on helping the club turn
around their miserable pre-season form when they travel to Portugal this
week after they crashed to a 3-1 defeat against Ipswich last weekend.
He said: "I need to focus on the main thing and that is playing well for
West Ham United, making sure I improve and work hard ahead of the new
season.
"What is important is that we put in a good shift, work on what we need to,
and continue to gel ahead of the new season.
"We now need to address the negatives from Saturday but our fitness and
performances are improving every week.
"Overall our preparation has been good, the staff and set-up are great and
everything we do has a purpose. We had a bad result but we will learn from
that, we will work hard and do everything we can to ensure we hit the ground
running on August 18."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Clark: Ravel a 'fantastic talent'
Tuesday 7th August 2012 12:58
TeamTalk
Birmingham manager Lee Clark has explained the reasoning behind his decision
to sign midfielder Ravel Morrison. Clark has agreed a season-long loan deal
with West Ham for the former Manchester United trainee. But despite the
player's chequered past, Clark is confident Morrison will deliver on the
field for the Blues' fans.
Clark told the Birmingham Mail: "Why sign him? Because he's a fantastic
talent. "What he needs to do is get playing on that pitch, start enjoying
his football and showing everyone the ability he has got. "In the mould we
are playing, Ravel will fit in and I'm sure will excite our supporters very
much." Clark added: "He knows that it's a great opportunity for him here at
Birmingham."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM MIDFIELDER RAVEL MORRISON HAS SEVEN TEETH REMOVED
POSTED BY ROB PARKER ON AUGUST 7, 2012 IN: BIRMINGHAM, ODDBALLS, WEST
HAM|POST COMMENT
Offthepost.com
Ravel Morrison has left West Ham for a season-long loan at Birmingham – but
not before a trip to the dentist that was nearly as long. The former
Manchester United had to be flown home from the Hammers' pre-season training
camp in Germany to have seven teeth removed. Morrison was set to be fined
for missing a training session, but club officials decided to investigate
his claims that severe toothache was the reason for his absence. They
discovered that the 19-year-old has not been looking after his gnashers. He
was flown home for emergency dental treatment, and seven of his pearly
whites were deemed to be beyond salvage. Morrison will now splash out on
£28,000 dental implants, but will wear temporary moulds until the implants
are made. The midfielder's peculiar behaviour had already been ringing alarm
bells with the Hammers. He had reportedly refused to drink anything except
official West Ham bottled water during their trip to Germany, according to
the Daily Mail.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Ricardo Vaz Te is looking forward to representing the Hammers in his
homeland
07.08.2012
Ricardo Vaz Te is looking forward to returning to Portugal for Friday's
pre-season meeting with SC Braga - but insisted his main focus will be
helping West Ham United to prepare for the Barclays Premier League season.
The former Portugal Under-21 international came through the ranks at
Sporting Lisbon before moving to England at the age of 16 and admitted it
will be special to return to play in his homeland. Lisbon-born Vaz Te twice
appeared for Bolton Wanderers against Portuguese opposition in the UEFA Cup,
scoring against Vitoria de Guimaraes in November 2005 and appearing against
old club Sporting in March 2008. Speaking to West Ham TV before flying out
with his team-mates on Tuesday, the No12 stated that he would not be
overawed by the occasion and that he would remain focussed on the task at
hand. "It's always a warm feeling to play at home," said Vaz Te. "I had the
chance to play in the UEFA Cup in Portugal in the past and the motivation is
always there in front of a home crowd. "That said, I need to focus on the
main thing and that is playing well for West Ham United, making sure I
Improve and work hard ahead of the new season rather than concentrating on
the occasion."
Vaz Te also conceded that both he and his side will need to step it up a
gear against a higher calibre of opponent - Braga finished third in the
Portuguese Primeira Liga last season to qualify for the UEFA Champions
League. "Braga is a higher challenge. They finished third in their league
last season and did ever so well. It's going to be a difficult game for us.
"It will be a week before the season starts so we will be fit and ready, but
the result does not matter so much in pre-season. What is important is that
we put in a good shift, work on what we need to, and continue to gel ahead
of the new season."
The former Bolton man also paid tribute to Braga for achieving what he
believes is massive breakthrough in Portuguese football - breaking the
monopoly of the big three clubs FC Porto, Sporting and Benfica. "What they
have achieved is fantastic. They don't spend a lot of money compared to the
top three but they have still managed to compete. "Porto and Benfica have
dominated for much of the last decade, and although Sporting do not spend as
much money they always compete by producing fantastic young players on a
regular basis. "Braga were very impressive last season, they finished third
in the league and were top during some points at the season. "The way in
which they've progressed over the past five years both domestically and in
Europe, where they reached the Europa League final in 2011, has been
fantastic. "They will provide a good test for us and prepare us for the
Premier League season where we will face a similar level of opposition week
in week out."
The Hammers went down 3-1 to an impressive Ipswich Town side on Saturday,
but Vaz Te feels positives can be taken even in defeat. "I think pre-season
has been going well, we can take a lot of positives from each game. We now
need address the negatives from Saturday but our fitness and performances
are improving every week. "Overall our preparation has been good, the staff
and set-up are great and everything we do has a purpose. "We had a bad
result but we will learn from that, we will work hard and do everything we
can to ensure we hit the ground running on August 18."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Northampton nick late win
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad lost out 3-1 at npower League Two side Northampton
Town on Tuesday
07.08.2012
Sam Baldock was on target as the Development Squad lost out 3-1 at npower
League Two side Northampton Town on Tuesday. With a 20-man first-team squad
away in Portugal ahead of Friday's clash with SC Braga, Ian Hendon took a
side mixing youth and experience to the Sixfields Stadium, with Baldock
joined in the starting lineup by Frederic Piquionne, Jordan Spence and Rob
Hall. Managed by Aidy Boothroyd, Northampton featured former Hammers
left-back Joe Widdowson in their starting XI, while striker Clive Platt
netted for Coventry City against West Ham in the npower Championship last
season. Both sides traded chances during an entertaining 90 minutes, with
Piquionne particularly unlucky not to add to the hat-trick he netted in
Saturday's victory at AFC Wimbledon. Jack Powell, Baldock and Hall also saw
opportunities go begging. As it was, Platt's early opener was cancelled out
by Baldock five minutes after half-time, but two goals in the final 20
minutes from Kelvin Langmead and Alex Nicholls gave the Cobblers the win.
Speaking after the game, coach Ian Hendon was pleased with his side's
overall performance and believes with a little more luck they could have
come away with a win. "We played very well tonight and I won't criticise the
lads because on another night they could have come away with a lot more from
that performance.
"Jack hit the crossbar when we were 1-0 down with a free-kick and Sam
Baldock had one hit him that could have gone anywhere, but unfortunately for
us it wasn't to be."
Hendon was pleased with his side's response as the Hammers applied immense
pressure during the latter stages of the first half, with Baldock and Rob
Hall both going close. "The team reacted well and like I said before with a
bit more luck we could have found ourselves back in the game when we went
2-1 down. We have a little bit of work to do this week with a few days
before we face Dagenham and Redbridge, but we played well and we will
continue to do so. "A few of the lads may need a rest with the start of the
season just ten days away, but that will give a few of the younger members
of the squad a good opportunity against a good team."
Hendon also believes that disappointing results will only serve to benefit
the youngsters in his team, explaining that in order for them to progress
they need to experience both sides of the game. "It was basic defending from
a set piece that cost us tonight, and although that is disappointing we are
playing with 16-year-olds against big, powerful, experienced centre
forwards. "The clue is in the title 'Development Squad' and that's what I'm
seeing during every week. We did well to get ourselves back into the game
and we continued to create chances which is pleasing. The scoreline is
misleading as we were much better than it suggests."
Hall impressed once more and Hendon is delighted with his reaction after
returning to the Development Squad following a spell with the first team.
"Rob is listening, learning, and getting better day by day. He may find this
season that he drops in and out, but if he keeps his consistency up then he
will continue to impress regardless of what side he is in."
Hendon also praised the West Ham supporters who turned out in force, with
269 traveling to the Sixfields Stadium. The Development Squad travel to
Dagenham and Redbridge on Saturday to round off their pre-season
preparations before facing Reading in their first Barclays Under-21 Premier
League match at the Rush Green Stadium on Friday 17 August at 7pm.
Development Squad: Larkins, Chambers, Fanimo, Powell, Spence, Wearen,
Baldock, Lletget, Piquionne, Turgott, Hall
Subs: Guzman Rosique, McCallum, Vose, Miles, Sadlier, Shaw, D.Tombides
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers proud of Olympic heroes
WHUFC.com
All at West Ham United have taken great pleasure in seeing their local stars
shine at the Olympics
07.08.2012
West Ham United are extremely proud of the exploits of its local athletes at
this summer's Olympic Games. East London has provided some of the stars of
the games so far and all at the club are delighted with the successes seen
to date. The performances of the likes of Hammers fans Mark Hunter and
Stuart Hayes and local ladies Christine Ohuruogu and Perri Shakes-Drayton
have only served to motivate all at the club ahead of their Barclays Premier
League return. Sam Allardyce and the first-team squad posted a video to spur
Hunter on ahead of his lightweight men's double sculls final on Saturday and
he responded by adding a Silver medal to his Beijing gold. Hunter and
partner Zac Purchase had to overcome a broken seat but powered on to a
Silver after being pipped at the finish by Denmark. The West Ham fanatic was
soon followed onto the podium by Ohuruogu, who secured Silver after an
inspired finish in the 400m. The 2008 Olympic champion looked beaten but
rallied in the final 50 metres to surge home in second, coming agonisingly
close to a second Gold medal. Shakes-Drayton just missed out on a place in
the 400m hurdles final on Monday night. Shakes-Drayton, who was born and
raised in Bow, finished third in her semi-final, but at the age of just 23,
it is likely she will only get better. On Tuesday, Hammers fan Hayes played
a vital role in helping the Brownlee brothers secure the Gold and Bronze
medals in the men's triathlon. Hayes set the pace during the middle cycling
stage of the race around central London, paving the way for Alistair to win
and Jonny to secure third place.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ricardo Vaz stay
Published: 07th August 2012
The Sun
RICARDO VAZ TE has denied that he is ready to quit West Ham. The striker
grabbed the play-off winner that took the Hammers back to the top-flight.
But it has been suggested he is ready to leave over a wage row. Vaz Te said:
"I need to focus on the main thing — playing well for West Ham and making
sure I improve."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Baldock and Dylan Tombides....
http://westhamclaretinmyblood.blogspot.co.uk
Last night a West Ham Development Squad team played a match against
Northampton and lost 3-1. The score and the details are not important, but
the team sheet is. The 20 man first team squad has gone out to Portugal to
play SC Braga on Friday, and one name not among them is Sam Baldock. For
me, that's a shame, as I rate him and think that given time and chances, he
would become a valuable tool for West Ham's upcoming PL season. However, it
appears that the club has other ideas, and this can only be yet another sign
that Baldock is destined for other pastures. That's a pity: he's creative
and has potential, but I suppose there's no room for him in a 451?
More positive news though is that Dylan Tombides, young Australian and West
Ham Academy prospect, was back on the bench for this game. Dylan was
diagnosed with testicular cancer last year after getting hit in the groin in
game against Brazil for his native Australia, and he has been undergoing
surgery and chemotherapy for a year to fight it. The details of his battle
are humbling, but the signs are good for him, particularly given his
appearance on the bench yesterday, although it is only a start. Dylan's
stated desire is to play for West Ham and seems to have given him the
momentum to battle through the cancer. All I can say is, regardless of
football, I'm glad to hear a young lad has battled on and not given up hope
for his career. Well done, Dylan, and keep up the fight.
It is well worth reading May's Daily Mail article on Dylan's diagnosis,
battle, and steps to recovery
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vaz Te dismisses talk of West Ham exit
By talkSPORT | Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Ricardo Vaz Te has brushed aside speculation linking him with a move away
from Upton Park and insists he is ready to become a major star for West Ham
in the Premier League next season.
Vaz Te scored the crucial winner in the play-off final at Wembley back in
May which helped the east London club gain promotion back to the top-flight.
But reports in the summer suggested that the Portuguese striker was ready to
quit the club over wage demands and felt he deserved parity with the top
earners.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce will be desperate to keep Vaz Te after being
frustrated in his attempts to bring a big name forward to the club after
Andy Carroll rejected the chance to join the Hammers.
Vaz Te insists he is happy to stay and is focused on helping the club turn
around their miserable pre-season form when they travel to Portugal this
week after they crashed to a 3-1 defeat against Ipswich last weekend.
He said: "I need to focus on the main thing and that is playing well for
West Ham United, making sure I improve and work hard ahead of the new
season.
"What is important is that we put in a good shift, work on what we need to,
and continue to gel ahead of the new season.
"We now need to address the negatives from Saturday but our fitness and
performances are improving every week.
"Overall our preparation has been good, the staff and set-up are great and
everything we do has a purpose. We had a bad result but we will learn from
that, we will work hard and do everything we can to ensure we hit the ground
running on August 18."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Clark: Ravel a 'fantastic talent'
Tuesday 7th August 2012 12:58
TeamTalk
Birmingham manager Lee Clark has explained the reasoning behind his decision
to sign midfielder Ravel Morrison. Clark has agreed a season-long loan deal
with West Ham for the former Manchester United trainee. But despite the
player's chequered past, Clark is confident Morrison will deliver on the
field for the Blues' fans.
Clark told the Birmingham Mail: "Why sign him? Because he's a fantastic
talent. "What he needs to do is get playing on that pitch, start enjoying
his football and showing everyone the ability he has got. "In the mould we
are playing, Ravel will fit in and I'm sure will excite our supporters very
much." Clark added: "He knows that it's a great opportunity for him here at
Birmingham."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM MIDFIELDER RAVEL MORRISON HAS SEVEN TEETH REMOVED
POSTED BY ROB PARKER ON AUGUST 7, 2012 IN: BIRMINGHAM, ODDBALLS, WEST
HAM|POST COMMENT
Offthepost.com
Ravel Morrison has left West Ham for a season-long loan at Birmingham – but
not before a trip to the dentist that was nearly as long. The former
Manchester United had to be flown home from the Hammers' pre-season training
camp in Germany to have seven teeth removed. Morrison was set to be fined
for missing a training session, but club officials decided to investigate
his claims that severe toothache was the reason for his absence. They
discovered that the 19-year-old has not been looking after his gnashers. He
was flown home for emergency dental treatment, and seven of his pearly
whites were deemed to be beyond salvage. Morrison will now splash out on
£28,000 dental implants, but will wear temporary moulds until the implants
are made. The midfielder's peculiar behaviour had already been ringing alarm
bells with the Hammers. He had reportedly refused to drink anything except
official West Ham bottled water during their trip to Germany, according to
the Daily Mail.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 7
Daily WHUFC News - 7th August 2012
Turgott aims for consistency
WHUFC.com
Blair Turgott is hoping to continue his fine form when the Development Squad
face Northampton Town
06.08.2012
Blair Turgott will be aiming to impress when the Development Squad travel to
Northampton Town on Tuesday night. The 18-year-old was part of Sam
Allardyce's squad for the pre-season tour of Germany, where he caught the
eye alongside fellow youngsters Rob Hall and George Moncur. Turgott has
continued his good form on his return to England, scoring the final goal in
Saturday's 4-2 win over AFC Wimbledon and now, speaking ahead of the game at
Sixfields Stadium, Turgott admitted being around the first team has given
him a taste for more. "It was a good experience and it definitely helps my
development being around top professionals and the environment that comes
with it. "Being part of the manager's pre-season plans also allowed me to
see what he likes and what he is hoping for in the upcoming season which is
only going to be good for me."
Cutting an extremely grounded figure, Turgott has modest aims for a player
who has recently been in the first team, admitting his current priority lies
with the Development Squad. "First and foremost I want to continue putting
in good performances for the Development Squad, catch a few eyes then
hopefully break into the first team. "If that doesn't happen this season,
then it doesn't mean it won't, I will continue to work hard and I'm sure I
will get my chance. "Sometimes it's good to go out on loan and get some
experience, but West Ham United is where I want to be. I need to keep
playing well and working hard, if I do both those things then hopefully I
will get an opportunity."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison joins Blues on loan
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan
06.08.2012
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan. The West Ham United midfielder will link up with the Blues
after being allowed to join Lee Clark's side for the 2012/13 campaign.
Morrison could make his Birmingham debut in a pre-season match against Royal
Antwerp on Saturday.
The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from Manchester United in January and
made his first-team debut at Leeds United on 18 March - his sole senior
appearance for the club so far. Morrison will hope to gain valuable
first-team experience as Birmingham start their challenge to make a return
to the Barclays Premier League after being eliminated in the npower
Championship Play-Off semi-finals by Blackpool last term. Clark's side host
Barnet in the Capital One Cup first round on Tuesday 14 August before
starting their league campaign against Charlton Athletic at St Andrew's on
Saturday 18 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joey's Ireland joy
WHUFC.com
Joey O'Brien was delighted to receive his first international call-up in
four years
06.08.2012
Joey O'Brien has expressed his delight after receiving his first Republic of
Ireland call-up in four years. The versatile West Ham United defender or
midfielder has battled back from a series of serious knee injuries to earn
his place in Giovanni Trapattoni's squad for a friendly international with
Serbia in Belgrade on 15 August.
For O'Brien, who made his Ireland debut against Sweden in March 2006, earned
the last of his three senior caps in a UEFA European Championship qualifier
against Cyprus in October 2007. Unfortunately, a combination of injuries and
frustration at a lack of playing time then saw O'Brien's opportunities
limited, but he is now back in favour and hoping to start against Serbia and
in next month's UEFA European Championship qualifier in Kazakhstan. After
such a long period in the international wilderness, the 26-year-old was
naturally chuffed to bits with the news that he will be joining up with the
Boys in Green again. "It's been a long time and I've had a few sleepless
nights. Comments I made in the past were taken out of context and weren't
what I wanted to say because I love playing for my country. Hopefully I'll
get the chance to do it."
O'Brien burst into the Bolton Wanderers first team as a teenager, earning
six Republic of Ireland Under-21 caps before making his senior debut in
Steve Staunton's first game in charge - a 3-0 win over Sweden. The following
year, 2007, the Dublin-born player helped Ireland hold Germany to a goalless
draw in a UEFA European Championship qualifier in his home city. Now he has
secured his international return, O'Brien is also targeting a return to
Premier League action. His most-recent top-flight appearance came in a
goalless home draw for Bolton against Blackburn Rovers on 18 October 2008.
"Personally, when I got released by Bolton I was released by a Premier
League club, then I got the chance to go to massive club like West Ham. The
dream then was to get back to playing Premier League football. "Through all
my injury worries, it was all about getting back to playing in the Premier
League so hopefully I'll get that chance."
O'Brien's versatility - he played at centre-back during the recent tour to
Germany and left-back in Saturday's fixture at Ipswich Town - could be key
to him gaining opportunities to play regularly this term. "Obviously it
gives me a chance to get minutes on the pitch. I can play in midfield or at
centre-half too, so that could give me opportunities. Players are going to
pick up injuries and whatever, so as long as the manager gives me the call,
hopefully I'll be able to do the job."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll: West Ham concede defeat in chase for Liverpool striker
By Ben Smith
BBC Sport
West Ham have conceded defeat in their bid to sign Liverpool's Andy Carroll.
Despite the clubs agreeing terms over a proposed £2m loan deal, the
23-year-old striker has told the newly promoted Premier League club that he
has no intention of joining them. Newcastle retain an active interest in
Carroll but will not pay over the odds for the man they sold for £35m in
2011. With the start of the new season less than a fortnight away, Carroll's
future looks increasingly unclear. The England international continues to
train with the Liverpool squad as he seeks to overcome a minor groin injury.
It remains to be seen whether he plays any part in Thursday's Europa League
qualifier against FC Gomel at Anfield with Liverpool going into the match
with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Uefa rules allow a player to
represent one club in the Europa League qualifying round and another in the
group stages. That means Carroll could play for Liverpool during qualifying
and still potentially play for Newcastle, who have secured a place in the
play-offs. Newcastle remain confident that if Carroll leaves Anfield he is
interested only in returning to Tyneside. Liverpool, who signed Carroll for
a club record £35m in January 2011, have already turned down one Newcastle
bid to re-sign the player.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison joins Birmingham City from West Ham on loan
BBC.co.uk
Birmingham City have signed teenage West Ham United midfielder Ravel
Morrison on a season-long loan. The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from
Manchester United on 31 January on transfer deadline day for £650,000.
Morrison has so far made just one appearance for the Hammers - as a late
substitute at Leeds in March. But West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was keen
for Morrison, who made just three Carling Cup appearances for Man Utd, to
get some match practice. Manchester-born Morrison has made headlines off the
field, having been fined £600 by a court in May 2011 for throwing his
girlfriend's mobile phone through a window during an argument when a Red
Devils youth-team player. He was then fined £7,000 and warned as to his
future conduct by the Football Association following comments made on
Twitter, after he admitted a charge of using abusive and/or insulting words,
including a reference to a person's sexual orientation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blues move for Morrison
Hammers winger in St Andrews medical
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
August 6, 2012 10:03am
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham youngster Ravel Morrison is poised to join
Birmingham on loan. West Ham signed the 19-year-old from Manchester United
in January after he turned down a new deal at Old Trafford. Morrison was
regarded as one of the best young players to come through the ranks at
United, but he decided to leave the club in search of regular first-team
football. The talented attacker made only one appearance for West Ham last
season as a late substitute against Leeds. Morrison is set to find himself
down the pecking order at Upton Park this season as the Hammers prepare for
life back in the Premier League and boss Sam Allardyce believes he would be
better served going out on loan. A number of Championship clubs are believed
to have expressed an interest in signing the England youth international,
but Birmingham hope to win the race for his signature. Blues boss Lee Clark
is keen to bolster his squad at St Andrew's and landing Morrison would be
something of a coup for the Birmingham chief.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Unravels And Is Off to Birmingham
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So, Ravel Morrison is joining Birmingham City on a season long loan. It's
rumoured he had a training ground bust up with Neil McDonald, Sam
Allardyce's Number 2. If true, this young man needs to sort himself out
pretty quickly. Last season he incurred the wrath of other players by
injuring Abdoulaye Faye in a dangerous tackle. I was always in favour of him
being signed, although you do have to wonder about his temper. If Sir Alex
Ferguson couldn't sort him out, it makes you wonder if anyone can.
But let's hope he impresses for Birmingham so much that we call him back
early!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nicky is Leeds' Mayn target
Published: Today at 00:27
The Sun
WEST HAM ace Nicky Maynard has leapfrogged Craig Mackail-Smith on Leeds'
wish-list. Brighton had hoped to swap striker Mackail-Smith with Ross
McCormack but the latter wants to stay at Elland Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel's Brum deal
Published: 06th August 2012
The Sun
WEST HAM midfielder Ravel Morrison has joined Birmingham on a season-long
loan. The former Manchester United starlet, 19, struggled to make an impact
after signing for the Hammers in January. With Sam Allardyce's men promoted
to the Premier League, Morrison's chances of first team football seemed
limited. And Big Sam has decided to allow him to spend the new campaign with
Lee Clark's Birmingham side in the Championship.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll update: Son of West Ham owner tweets that the deal's dead and buried
The Mirror
Laurence Griffiths
The Andy Carroll transfer saga is over – as far as West Ham are concerned.
Jack Sullivan – son of West Ham chief David - has long been a source of
interesting nuggets about the life and times of the Irons, and he likes to
share the word with the world via Twitter. It was Jack who tweet-leaked the
news that West Ham were preparing a record £18million move for Carroll . Now
he's closed the door on this fun but futile chapter of the Hammers story, by
tweeting the following: "Sadly the main player we wanted has stayed with the
club he's at, "Continued: despite trying very hard and agreeing terms with
the club, we now move on with other targets.
"Anyway we only want player that want to play for WHU" So that's that then.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joey O'Brien thrilled to get the call
Tuesday, 07 August 2012 00:57
www.fai.ie
It's almost four years since Joey O'Brien won the last of his three senior
Republic of Ireland caps, so the West Ham United defender is understandably
delighted to be called up for next week's friendly away to Serbia on August
15. Due to Sean St Ledger's withdrawal after sustaining a knee injury during
Leicester's pre-season fixture at Burton Albion, O'Brien was a late
replacement. He will link up with the squad this Sunday. The 26-year-old
told the club's official website how excited he is about being part of
Giovanni Trapattoni's squad. "It's been a long time and I've had a few
sleepless nights," he said. "Comments that I made in the past were taken out
of context and weren't what I wanted to say because I love playing for my
country. Hopefully, I'll get the chance to do that. O'Brien's first campaign
with the Hammers saw him help achieve promotion for the club back to the
Premier League. That's the stage O'Brien played most of football with Bolton
Wanderers until serious injuries restricted his progress.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Blair Turgott is hoping to continue his fine form when the Development Squad
face Northampton Town
06.08.2012
Blair Turgott will be aiming to impress when the Development Squad travel to
Northampton Town on Tuesday night. The 18-year-old was part of Sam
Allardyce's squad for the pre-season tour of Germany, where he caught the
eye alongside fellow youngsters Rob Hall and George Moncur. Turgott has
continued his good form on his return to England, scoring the final goal in
Saturday's 4-2 win over AFC Wimbledon and now, speaking ahead of the game at
Sixfields Stadium, Turgott admitted being around the first team has given
him a taste for more. "It was a good experience and it definitely helps my
development being around top professionals and the environment that comes
with it. "Being part of the manager's pre-season plans also allowed me to
see what he likes and what he is hoping for in the upcoming season which is
only going to be good for me."
Cutting an extremely grounded figure, Turgott has modest aims for a player
who has recently been in the first team, admitting his current priority lies
with the Development Squad. "First and foremost I want to continue putting
in good performances for the Development Squad, catch a few eyes then
hopefully break into the first team. "If that doesn't happen this season,
then it doesn't mean it won't, I will continue to work hard and I'm sure I
will get my chance. "Sometimes it's good to go out on loan and get some
experience, but West Ham United is where I want to be. I need to keep
playing well and working hard, if I do both those things then hopefully I
will get an opportunity."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison joins Blues on loan
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan
06.08.2012
Ravel Morrison has joined npower Championship side Birmingham City on a
season-long loan. The West Ham United midfielder will link up with the Blues
after being allowed to join Lee Clark's side for the 2012/13 campaign.
Morrison could make his Birmingham debut in a pre-season match against Royal
Antwerp on Saturday.
The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from Manchester United in January and
made his first-team debut at Leeds United on 18 March - his sole senior
appearance for the club so far. Morrison will hope to gain valuable
first-team experience as Birmingham start their challenge to make a return
to the Barclays Premier League after being eliminated in the npower
Championship Play-Off semi-finals by Blackpool last term. Clark's side host
Barnet in the Capital One Cup first round on Tuesday 14 August before
starting their league campaign against Charlton Athletic at St Andrew's on
Saturday 18 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Joey's Ireland joy
WHUFC.com
Joey O'Brien was delighted to receive his first international call-up in
four years
06.08.2012
Joey O'Brien has expressed his delight after receiving his first Republic of
Ireland call-up in four years. The versatile West Ham United defender or
midfielder has battled back from a series of serious knee injuries to earn
his place in Giovanni Trapattoni's squad for a friendly international with
Serbia in Belgrade on 15 August.
For O'Brien, who made his Ireland debut against Sweden in March 2006, earned
the last of his three senior caps in a UEFA European Championship qualifier
against Cyprus in October 2007. Unfortunately, a combination of injuries and
frustration at a lack of playing time then saw O'Brien's opportunities
limited, but he is now back in favour and hoping to start against Serbia and
in next month's UEFA European Championship qualifier in Kazakhstan. After
such a long period in the international wilderness, the 26-year-old was
naturally chuffed to bits with the news that he will be joining up with the
Boys in Green again. "It's been a long time and I've had a few sleepless
nights. Comments I made in the past were taken out of context and weren't
what I wanted to say because I love playing for my country. Hopefully I'll
get the chance to do it."
O'Brien burst into the Bolton Wanderers first team as a teenager, earning
six Republic of Ireland Under-21 caps before making his senior debut in
Steve Staunton's first game in charge - a 3-0 win over Sweden. The following
year, 2007, the Dublin-born player helped Ireland hold Germany to a goalless
draw in a UEFA European Championship qualifier in his home city. Now he has
secured his international return, O'Brien is also targeting a return to
Premier League action. His most-recent top-flight appearance came in a
goalless home draw for Bolton against Blackburn Rovers on 18 October 2008.
"Personally, when I got released by Bolton I was released by a Premier
League club, then I got the chance to go to massive club like West Ham. The
dream then was to get back to playing Premier League football. "Through all
my injury worries, it was all about getting back to playing in the Premier
League so hopefully I'll get that chance."
O'Brien's versatility - he played at centre-back during the recent tour to
Germany and left-back in Saturday's fixture at Ipswich Town - could be key
to him gaining opportunities to play regularly this term. "Obviously it
gives me a chance to get minutes on the pitch. I can play in midfield or at
centre-half too, so that could give me opportunities. Players are going to
pick up injuries and whatever, so as long as the manager gives me the call,
hopefully I'll be able to do the job."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll: West Ham concede defeat in chase for Liverpool striker
By Ben Smith
BBC Sport
West Ham have conceded defeat in their bid to sign Liverpool's Andy Carroll.
Despite the clubs agreeing terms over a proposed £2m loan deal, the
23-year-old striker has told the newly promoted Premier League club that he
has no intention of joining them. Newcastle retain an active interest in
Carroll but will not pay over the odds for the man they sold for £35m in
2011. With the start of the new season less than a fortnight away, Carroll's
future looks increasingly unclear. The England international continues to
train with the Liverpool squad as he seeks to overcome a minor groin injury.
It remains to be seen whether he plays any part in Thursday's Europa League
qualifier against FC Gomel at Anfield with Liverpool going into the match
with a 1-0 advantage from the first leg. Uefa rules allow a player to
represent one club in the Europa League qualifying round and another in the
group stages. That means Carroll could play for Liverpool during qualifying
and still potentially play for Newcastle, who have secured a place in the
play-offs. Newcastle remain confident that if Carroll leaves Anfield he is
interested only in returning to Tyneside. Liverpool, who signed Carroll for
a club record £35m in January 2011, have already turned down one Newcastle
bid to re-sign the player.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison joins Birmingham City from West Ham on loan
BBC.co.uk
Birmingham City have signed teenage West Ham United midfielder Ravel
Morrison on a season-long loan. The 19-year-old joined the Hammers from
Manchester United on 31 January on transfer deadline day for £650,000.
Morrison has so far made just one appearance for the Hammers - as a late
substitute at Leeds in March. But West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was keen
for Morrison, who made just three Carling Cup appearances for Man Utd, to
get some match practice. Manchester-born Morrison has made headlines off the
field, having been fined £600 by a court in May 2011 for throwing his
girlfriend's mobile phone through a window during an argument when a Red
Devils youth-team player. He was then fined £7,000 and warned as to his
future conduct by the Football Association following comments made on
Twitter, after he admitted a charge of using abusive and/or insulting words,
including a reference to a person's sexual orientation.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blues move for Morrison
Hammers winger in St Andrews medical
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
August 6, 2012 10:03am
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham youngster Ravel Morrison is poised to join
Birmingham on loan. West Ham signed the 19-year-old from Manchester United
in January after he turned down a new deal at Old Trafford. Morrison was
regarded as one of the best young players to come through the ranks at
United, but he decided to leave the club in search of regular first-team
football. The talented attacker made only one appearance for West Ham last
season as a late substitute against Leeds. Morrison is set to find himself
down the pecking order at Upton Park this season as the Hammers prepare for
life back in the Premier League and boss Sam Allardyce believes he would be
better served going out on loan. A number of Championship clubs are believed
to have expressed an interest in signing the England youth international,
but Birmingham hope to win the race for his signature. Blues boss Lee Clark
is keen to bolster his squad at St Andrew's and landing Morrison would be
something of a coup for the Birmingham chief.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Unravels And Is Off to Birmingham
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So, Ravel Morrison is joining Birmingham City on a season long loan. It's
rumoured he had a training ground bust up with Neil McDonald, Sam
Allardyce's Number 2. If true, this young man needs to sort himself out
pretty quickly. Last season he incurred the wrath of other players by
injuring Abdoulaye Faye in a dangerous tackle. I was always in favour of him
being signed, although you do have to wonder about his temper. If Sir Alex
Ferguson couldn't sort him out, it makes you wonder if anyone can.
But let's hope he impresses for Birmingham so much that we call him back
early!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nicky is Leeds' Mayn target
Published: Today at 00:27
The Sun
WEST HAM ace Nicky Maynard has leapfrogged Craig Mackail-Smith on Leeds'
wish-list. Brighton had hoped to swap striker Mackail-Smith with Ross
McCormack but the latter wants to stay at Elland Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel's Brum deal
Published: 06th August 2012
The Sun
WEST HAM midfielder Ravel Morrison has joined Birmingham on a season-long
loan. The former Manchester United starlet, 19, struggled to make an impact
after signing for the Hammers in January. With Sam Allardyce's men promoted
to the Premier League, Morrison's chances of first team football seemed
limited. And Big Sam has decided to allow him to spend the new campaign with
Lee Clark's Birmingham side in the Championship.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll update: Son of West Ham owner tweets that the deal's dead and buried
The Mirror
Laurence Griffiths
The Andy Carroll transfer saga is over – as far as West Ham are concerned.
Jack Sullivan – son of West Ham chief David - has long been a source of
interesting nuggets about the life and times of the Irons, and he likes to
share the word with the world via Twitter. It was Jack who tweet-leaked the
news that West Ham were preparing a record £18million move for Carroll . Now
he's closed the door on this fun but futile chapter of the Hammers story, by
tweeting the following: "Sadly the main player we wanted has stayed with the
club he's at, "Continued: despite trying very hard and agreeing terms with
the club, we now move on with other targets.
"Anyway we only want player that want to play for WHU" So that's that then.
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Joey O'Brien thrilled to get the call
Tuesday, 07 August 2012 00:57
www.fai.ie
It's almost four years since Joey O'Brien won the last of his three senior
Republic of Ireland caps, so the West Ham United defender is understandably
delighted to be called up for next week's friendly away to Serbia on August
15. Due to Sean St Ledger's withdrawal after sustaining a knee injury during
Leicester's pre-season fixture at Burton Albion, O'Brien was a late
replacement. He will link up with the squad this Sunday. The 26-year-old
told the club's official website how excited he is about being part of
Giovanni Trapattoni's squad. "It's been a long time and I've had a few
sleepless nights," he said. "Comments that I made in the past were taken out
of context and weren't what I wanted to say because I love playing for my
country. Hopefully, I'll get the chance to do that. O'Brien's first campaign
with the Hammers saw him help achieve promotion for the club back to the
Premier League. That's the stage O'Brien played most of football with Bolton
Wanderers until serious injuries restricted his progress.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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