Young duo eyeing progression
WHUFC.com
Paul McCallum and Dan Potts are looking to make their mark after impressing
against Cork City
09.07.2013
West Ham United youngsters Paul McCallum and Dan Potts are looking to make
their mark after impressing in Sunday's pre-season victory at Cork City.
McCallum made the most of his opportunity to shine by scoring with a
powerful header, while Potts was the only Hammer to complete the full 90
minutes at Turner's Cross. Speaking to West Ham TV, the two teenagers were
happy to have been given the chance to get more first-team minutes under
their belts in Ireland. For McCallum, his goal marked the end of a whirlwind
week that started with him training with the Under-21s at Chadwell Heath.
"Yes, I started the week with the 21s and didn't think I had a sniff of
coming out here," confirmed the 19-year-old forward. "I got a phone call
during a gym session and had to fly over that night. I came over here and
I'm just delighted to be given the chance to show the Gaffer what I can do.
I'm even happier that I got a goal."
For the former Dulwich Hamlet youngster, who joined West Ham at the age of
17 in January 2011, the opportunity to train and play with experienced
internationals at an overseas training camp is one he relished. "It's a huge
experience for me. I had never been away with the first team before and we
never went away in non-league. I'm just delighted to be here."
McCallum's goal arrived in the second half when he rose to nod in fellow
youngster Danny Whitehead's clipped cross, and the forward then added an
assist by holding off a defender to set up Ravel Morrison. "To be fair, I
tihnk everybody would put their money on me scoring a header. I'd have put
my house on it. Then, for Ravel's goal, I showed a bit of pace to get in
behind and I've not really got pace! I've out-muscled the left-back, who was
only about 5'6, but I'm still buzzing off it! I cut it back for Rav when I
probably should have gone for goal myself and got my second."
Potts has more first-team experience than his fellow teenager, having
featured ten times under Sam Allardyce, and the England Under-20 defender is
eager for more. With the manager having trimmed his squad ahead of the
2013/14 Barclays Premier League campaign, the left-back knows he and his
fellow Under-21s have a chance to stake a claim for a regular place in the
matchday squad. "I'm definitely looking for more. Every year, especially in
pre-season, as a young lad you want to set your stall out for the rest of
the season. You know, pre-season games are going to give you chances and you
have to take those chances to show the Gaffer what you can do and if you're
good enough to step up to the Premier League. "Definitely, this year is a
massive year for everyone at the Club."
McCallum knows his physical approach and imposing 6'3 frame make him an
archetypal Big Sam forward. With just Andy Carroll and Modibo Maiga ahead
him in the pecking order, he is desperate to muscle his way into the
first-team reckoning. "We have only got two strikers at the Club at the
moment in Maiga and Andy and I don't know if the manager will sign another
one. I've got to watch Andy because he is the main striker here and I've got
to do what he does, add it to my game and see if I can get my chance."
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Big Sam hails top flight diversity
WHUFC.com
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce believes the Barclays Premier League is the most
inclusive in the world
09.07.2013
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce was interviewed for a BBC programme on
Muslim footballers in the Barclays Premier League, which aired on Sunday.
Forty Muslim players now feature in the top flight of English football and
Big Sam believes that is an indicator of how inclusive the game is. Speaking
on The Muslim Premier League, Allardyce explained how the Hammers embrace
players from all cultures. He said: "We're fortunate enough to have a
chaplain who comes in on a regular basis. The chaplain is well-versed with
the lads and is adept at talking to the players, particularly about their
religious beliefs. "He does quite a bit of the liasion with me to help the
players for their particular way or their particular need. You have to make
sure you have a prayer room, halal meat if you need it. That's all very,
very important to you to make sure everybody is integrated into the club. "I
think we live in a multicultural society full stop. Our integration is one
of the best in the world. While you'll never get rid of some of the problems
that occur between religions or race, generally in this country and
particularly in football we're all blessed to be footballers and we're all
blessed to be together. "We choose to get on together because that helps you
to become a better team and if you're a better team you live life a better
way. There shouldn't be anything that causes you too many frictions or
frustrations when you're getting paid for something you love doing. The team
spirit and integration at West Ham has been fantastic."
The Hammers have shown themselves to be at the forefront of inclusion in
football through their successful Community Sports Trust, which was the
first in the country to launch a scheme targeted at the Asian community back
in 1998. The Asians in Football scheme aims to increase participation in
football among the local Asian community in Tower Hamlets and Newham, as
well as training up Asian coaches. As the scheme has progressed, the Hammers
have also hosted the UK Asian Community Cup at the Boleyn Ground, and are
opening up pathways for talent from the Asian community through to
mainstream football. Rashid Abba, Social Inclusion Projects Manager at the
West Ham United Community Sports Trust said: "When West Ham launched the
Asians in Football scheme in 1998, no other club had done that. It has gone
on to be hugely successful and the work of the Trust here can be used as an
example for other clubs to follow.
"At the Community Sports Trust we have coaches from all different
backgrounds, so it is very diverse and it reflects our local community."
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Is Kuz the Man?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 9th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Inter's Serbian international
midfielder Zdravko Kuzmanovic. According to Sky Sports Italy the Hammers
have made tentative enquiries into the availablity of the 25-year-old, who
only joined the Italian giants from German Bundesliga side Stuttgart six
months ago.
Born in Switzerland to Bosnian Serb expat parents, Kuzmanovic is one of a
few players to have represented two countries at international level. He
appeared for the Swiss Under 21s on four occasions before becoming a full
Serbian international in 2007 - for whom he has since featured on 47
occasions. The central midfielder began his pro career with FC Basel in 2005
before joining Italian side Fiorentina two years later, having snubbed
fellow Italians Palermo in the process. After two successful years in Italy
with La Viola, Kuzmanovic moved to Stuttgart in 2009 for a fee of around
£7million. Having continued to impress in the Bundesliga, it was no
surprise when major clubs began to show interest; Stuttgart are said to have
rejected a £23million bid from Chelsea in 2011 whilst Jeventus and Lazio
were also listed as admirers. But a series of minor injuries from the
beginning of 2012 led to Kuzmanovic losing his place in the first team squad
at Stuttgart and after relations with the club turned sour, he agreed to
return to Italy in order to join Inter, for an undisclosed fee. Kuzmanovic
made his debut for Inter in a 3-1 defeat away to Siena at the beginning of
February and went on to appear 13 times (including three from the bench) for
Inter in the second half of the 2012/13 season.
Other players linked with West Ham in the past 24 hours include Liverpool's
Stewart Downing, Lille's Salomon Kalou (again) and West Brom's Graham
Dorrans (who United first bid for three years ago).
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The Only Way Is Up
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 9th July 2013
By: Ed Brooks
A new dawn is on the horizon. When you consider the arrival of Andy Carroll
in a club record transfer, a new kit deal with sportswear supergiants adidas
and a forthcoming 54,000 stadium, all on the back of a top-10 finish in the
Premier League, the future undeniably looks rosy for those in claret and
blue.
The club, commendably led by Davids Gold and Sullivan, has cut off ties with
its recent turbulent history, instead forging a new direction, one which
surely can only promise further improvement and success. Every aspect of the
club is growing and evolving, ensuring that it is an exciting time to
support West Ham.
The club's transfer policy can be seen to have adopted a new strategy; West
Ham is no longer regarded as a selling club. For the first time in many
summers West Ham's prize assets are not being touted around lazily in the
gossip columns; there is no distinct possibility of any key players
departing.
Earlier this month Gold quashed the possibility selling James Tomkins,
asserting that: "This is no longer a selling club. We are moving forward
into a big future and we will therefore be keeping our biggest players;
James is one of them."
Instead, West Ham is the club linked with everyone and anyone, though the
club's ambition is reflected in this; so far this summer we have been linked
with loan moves for Wilfried Zaha, Romelu Lukaku, and Demba Ba and, perhaps
more sensationally, Antonio Valencia and James Milner amongst many others.
It seems that West Ham is establishing a new reputation as a club with an
unrelenting desire for self-improvement and success. This can be largely
attributed to the efforts of Gold and Sullivan in their stewardship of the
club. They, along with Allardyce, have recognised the overachievement of the
side last year, a squad containing many Championship standard players who,
it must be said, performed outstandingly.
It is for this reason that a proactive transfer policy has been adopted, in
the form of substantial investment and astute short-term deals. West Ham's
unofficial publicity chief - teenager Jack Sullivan - has promised two to
four more signings in this transfer window to build on a so-far fruitful
summer period. Whilst investment is essential in order to progress on the
field next season, the current playing squad has many positives.
The squad can be seen to have a healthy mix of young and old; of upcoming
and established players. The remarkable improvement of Winston Reid over the
last two seasons has seen him rise to prominence in a team littered with
natural leaders. The regular presence of Reid, Jussi Jaaskelainen, James
Collins, Mark Noble, and Kevin Nolan in the starting line-up ensures that
the team displays the steel and fighting spirit required to grind out
results in the top league.
Furthermore, the increasing effectiveness of Matt Jarvis towards the latter
stages of last season provides another source of excitement. His flair and
ability to send crosses into dangerous areas was particularly effective when
combined with Andy Carroll's aerial threat, and so Carroll's permanent
transfer ensures that the relationship between the two successive club
record signings can continue to flourish in the coming years.
The combined cost of these two players amounts to over £25million, a
significant and concrete illustration of the club's willingness to invest.
The players' ages (Jarvis, 27; Carroll, 24) demonstrates the club's ambition
to source English players with career longevity. Such investment signifies
the ambition and determination of Gold and Sullivan to improve the club year
on year, and the wider long-term goal to establish West Ham as a major force
within English football.
So, as the players and staff prepare to return for pre-season training, the
club can be seen to be at its healthiest for years. Admirably led by Gold
and Sullivan, stability and longevity are the terms that are shaping the
team's progression. Gone are the days of the rash, uninformed decision
making that saw players like Freddie Ljungberg and Kieron Dyer brought in on
unsustainable and unjustified contracts.
The forthcoming season should promise further improvement, both on the pitch
and off it. The ambition is undeniably there; now all that needs to follow
is the results.
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Awards for a Rewarding Season
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 9th July 2013
By: Julie Stewart
From a completely unbiased point of view, the 2012/13 season was pretty
decent for the Hammers.
Finishing top ten is never a bad thing and there were plenty of highlights
along the way. Not to mention the fact that the best home goal scoring
record outside of the top four surely provided something for the faithful to
sing about.
There is always room for improvement and the securing of the on-going
services of Andy Carroll cannot hurt, but before the anticipation of the new
season begins in earnest, here is a look back in a completely random and not
too serious manner. You have heard of the Oscars, well here are the Josephs
(named after West Ham's own diminutive bloke with a touch of gold, Joe
Cole). Roll out the claret and blue carpet and let the fun begin...
Best Scouser in a Midfield Role
Admittedly there is not an awful lot of competition for this one. Unless
they are hiding it well there are not many extras from 'Bread' in the team.
Even with the lack of competition Kevin Nolan deserves recognition. The
tenacious, Toxteth born, 31-year-old is a 'lead by example' captain, having
scored ten Premier League goals from his midfield position in the 2012/13
season, including the end of season hat-trick at home to Reading. So now
Kevin has a Joseph to add to that match ball.
Best Striker in a Ponytail-Wearing Role
Now there may be a need for a recount in the hairstyle stakes, but whatever
your opinion on the luscious locks, Andy Carroll gets extra votes for being
one of the best 'traditional centre forwards' around. With seven goals in
twenty two Premier League appearances he always makes his presence felt. We
really do not want him to cut that hair either. Andy already has a bit of a
tendency to pick up injuries and we all know what happened to Samson when
his hair was cut.
Best Art Direction
Not really related to last season but the new kit pictures are classic. The
'footballers looking all mean and moody' theme is very 'Magnificent Seven'
except these heroes tend to shoot at goal and run around a football pitch as
opposed to shooting at 'bad guys' and riding around the Wild West. A Joseph
to everyone involved, in the spirit of generosity.
The Joseph for that Person who is Good and Important but you Have Never
Heard of Them
Everyone has seen the highlights of The Academy Awards when they whizz
through lots of awards and you wonder who those people are on the screen.
This Joseph goes to head groundsman Dougie Robertson. He may be known in
footballing circles but no-one would guess him in the mystery guest spot on
'A Question of Sport'. He is the relatively anonymous, but completely vital,
cog in the West Ham wheel.
Most Popular Sequel
The awards were named after him; it has to be the prodigal son, Joe Cole.
Having started his career at West Ham, before leaving to grace the teams of
Chelsea, Liverpool, and Lille, the midfield magician is back home. We could
not give Joe a statue of himself; that would just be weird. So we would need
to look at other award possibilities. We could take look at these awards
available to purchase after all a little glistening is a good thing. Or
maybe Mr Cole would be happy with watching a DVD of his team in the
performance that wins the final Joseph.
Most Satisfying Victorious Role
There are plenty of possibilities for a winner here. From an outside point
of view it would seem that there would be great satisfaction in beating one
of the teams that a lot of football fans love to hate; Chelsea. In anyone's
eyes a 3-1 defeat of any top four club is a pretty big deal. Awards to the
whole winning team for this one.
So that is it, the Josephs are over, the after show parties are about to
begin and the claret and blue carpet has been stored away for another year.
This season may not quite have been a champagne one but the wine has
definitely been sparkling; let's hope that next season The Josephs are an
even bigger celebration.
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Chelsea looking to tie down Islam Feruz to a new deal at Stamford Bridge
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated: July
9, 2013 3:02pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands Chelsea are in talks with Islam Feruz about a new
deal with a number of Premier League rivals weighing up moves for the
teenager.
The 17-year-old is regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in the UK
after bursting onto the scene with Celtic. Chelsea snapped up Feruz from
Celtic in September 2011 after he turned down a professional contract at
Celtic Park and he is highly-regarded within the corridors of power at
Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are keen to tie down Feruz to a new long-term deal as they see him
as one for the future, but the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United,
Manchester City, Liverpool, West Ham and Fulham are all monitoring his
contract situation in West London.
The skilful attacker, who turns 18 in September, has impressed for Chelsea's
Under 21s and in the Next Gen series over the last couple of seasons and it
has been suggested he could be included in Chelsea's first-team plans during
pre-season this summer.
Should Chelsea secure Feruz on a new deal a host of sides are thought to be
keen on taking the Scotland Under 21 international on loan.
West Brom, Crystal Palace, Wigan, Brighton, QPR, Birmingham, Reading, Bolton
and Blackpool are all believed to have expressed an interest in taking Feruz
on a temporary basis if Chelsea decide to loan him out.
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Tomkins rumours spoil positive vibe
Posted by Peter Thorne
ESPN
West Ham could be making a mistake if they are entertaining offers for James
Tomkins. Supporters of West Ham United have long known that relative success
for the club depends on the number of steps taken back whenever one is taken
forward; for rest assured, no matter how claret-and-blue tinted your
spectacles are, the faithful know that there has always been a 'crunchy with
the smooth' element to contend with, and that distant light at the end of
the tunnel will surely involve a thundering train. The only good times --
and they never seem to last for long -- are those when, at best, a nifty
sidestep is involved.
You can understand then the disquieting murmurs emanating from the East End
at rumours that an enquiry from Newcastle United about defender James
Tomkins was met -- not with a full rebuff as it was last season and should
have been this -- but reputedly with the suggestion of 6-million-pound price
tag.
It's true that those same rumours also surmise that the asking fee has
caused the North-Eastern side to consider whether they want to pursue the
matter further or not, but that is scant consolation. These worrying stories
have gained further credence because former Newcastle and Sunderland
centre-back Titus Bramble has been training with the Hammers, featured in a
notable 6-2 friendly win over Cork City and has been tagged as 'good enough
for the Premiership' by manager Sam Allardyce just last week. Please, say it
ain't so, Joe!
Tomkins is a popular local lad and most fans were seeing him possibly
bracketed with Alvin Martin and even Rio Ferdinand after West Ham's play-off
final success at the end of the 2011-12 season ensured a short stay in the
Championship. Tomkins was even thought good enough to join the GB squad for
last summer's Olympics but -- as further proof that things don't always go
as they should at the Boleyn -- Tomkins suffered from the football squad's
appalling performances in what was otherwise a Team GB triumph in virtually
every other sport.
Joining the West Ham squad late for preseason training following the
Olympics, Tomkins never seemed to capture his form. When he did play due to
injuries to James Collins, he struggled to strike up the partnership with
Winston Reid he had the previous season. Nevertheless, there were few fans
who didn't think the Basildon-born 24-year-old would find his form again
sooner rather than later and, at very worst, the player could provide
excellent cover in what is a fairly thin roster.
Considering West Ham were so keen to get Tomkins to extend his contract back
in early 2012, it's difficult to see what the player has done to even allow
a suggestion that he might be surplus to requirements -- particularly at the
price being quoted.
Hopefully, these rumours are just the result of some scurrilous
tittle-tattle because few fans would see the advantage of losing Tomkins and
gaining Bramble, even if the fee would plug a few holes in the bank balance.
Fingers crossed then for more positive suggestions the club have been
seriously considering making a bid for Stewart Downing. The winger looks
surplus to requirements at Liverpool and Big Sam apparently likes the idea
of two wingers supplying Andy Carroll with crosses. It does seem a Plan A
that is likely to cost in the region of another £15m -- money that may be
better spent holding onto a local defender and trying to strategise a Plan B
-- but the fact the Hammers are even involved in this type of rumour is
encouraging.
Also on the plus side is the news that the notoriously difficult Ravel
Morrison -- loaned to last season to Birmingham City, where he was highly
thought of by the fans and the local media -- has returned to the Hammers
fold a new and highly motivated young man.
Morrison was the man who was tagged by Sir Alex Ferguson as "Manchester
United's most technically gifted player since Paul Scholes" when he first
broke into the ranks at Old Trafford, but Fergie tired of Morrison's antics
and allowed the player to join West Ham where he hoped -- without much
faith, we suspect -- that Allardyce might be able to achieve what the
famously volatile Scot couldn't.
There wasn't much suggestion of any Road-to-Damascus type revelation early
on when the midfielder signed for West Ham in January of 2012, but
Morrison's inclusion in this preseason's games and, more important, the
favourable quotes coming from the coaching staff are suggesting that the
Hammers may have effectively gained a potent option.
Perhaps I'm being unnecessarily pessimistic, but I do sense Morrison will
always be hard work and West Ham supporters would do well to not get overly
excited by the promise of a 20-year-old with a delicate past and no
Premiership history to speak of. But it would undoubtedly be a feather in
the cap of Big Sam if he could succeed with Morrison where Sir Alex
couldn't.
So, some preseason positives that we don't want spoilt by silly-season
transfer speculation. Let's hope Tomkins benefits from a proper preseason
and shows the manager and board why the Hammers don't want to take a step
back as the club -- encouragingly for early July -- continue to push
forward.
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West Ham considering Downing bid
ESPN staff
July 9, 2013
West Ham are weighing up a move for Liverpool winger Stewart Downing, a
source has told ESPN. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce is shaping up his squad
for the new campaign and is considering Downing, 28, as an option, although
no bid has yet been made. The England international has had a difficult time
at Anfield since arriving from Aston Villa for £20 million in 2011, but did
manage to improve over the second half of last season. It is unlikely,
though, that the Reds would recoup anything like that fee if they were to
agree to a sale. Allardyce is looking at the possibility of reuniting
Downing with Andy Carroll, who completed a permanent move from Liverpool to
West Ham on June 19, in a deal worth an initial £15.5 million. Downing
failed to score or provide a single assist in the Premier League during his
first season at Anfield, while he then had a tough start to his second
campaign, following the arrival of Brendan Rodgers to replace Kenny Dalglish
as manager. The winger frequently found himself playing out of position at
left-back, and also had his attitude questioned publicly by Rodgers in the
early weeks of the season. Downing was linked with a November loan move to
Championship side Middlesbrough - his first club - and was told by the Reds
boss that he was free to leave. However, the former Villa man responded with
greatly improved displays, earning praise from his manager in the process.
He scored his first league goal for Liverpool against Fulham on December 22
and won back a regular place on the wing.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 10
Tuesday, July 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th July 2013
Allardyce seeking 'top quality' player
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 8th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that his squad isn't a million miles away from that
with which he hopes to start the new 2013/14 season. Allardyce, whose team
opened their pre-season campaign with a 6-2 win against Cork City at the
Turner's Cross Stadium last night has already brought in three players to
challenge for a first team berth, namely goalkeeper Adrian San Miguel del
Castillo, defender Razvan Rat and striker Andy Carroll. And whilst he
continues to seek further improvements - albeit with limited available
finances - Allardyce admits that he won't be looking to make too many more
changes before now and the start of the new campaign against Cardiff on
August 17th. "I think they [the new signings] will add real quality to the
squad, but you always want a little bit more and you are never satisfied as
a manager," he told whufc.com. "I am not saying that is the end of what we
are going to bring in and we will look to add one more player at least. If
we can secure that one more player, that would probably be it. "What I want
in that one player is top quality. I want that player to challenge the
players already here for their place immediately and keep it. That would
help improve the team. "I want somebody to come in and make a real
difference, as we did last year when the players we brought in made a
massive difference. That took us to the next level and led to us having a
fantastic season and finish tenth."
West Ham continue to be linked with a number of players in all areas of the
field, although Allardyce remains most keen to add at least one more striker
to his pack before the start of the new season. Co-chairmen David Sullivan
and David Gold spent much of last week in France on transfer business
although no details from that trip have emerged as of yet.
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The season ahead
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 8th July 2013
By: Andrew Patterson
With the pretty bubbles at the Boleyn Ground flying high, following a
successful first season back in the big league, Big Sam has completed the
biggest transfer in West Ham's history. But are all these positives leading
to a false sense of security? What happens when those bubbles burst?
The season to come can go one of two ways. We can be as successful as last
season which, let's be honest, would be a massive achievement - or it can
all go wrong; relegation.
What would we be left with if we took a trip back to the Championship? A
striker on a five-year deal costing us £100,000 a week? A contract worth
that much would cover most Championship squads! Needless to say, some
vulturesque, Premier League club would snap Andy Carroll up at a
not-so-handsome price.
In the 2004/05 season we were promoted from the Championship and finished
the following season in a very respectable 9th place - not so unlike last
season. However we failed to finish higher than 9th again in that particular
Premier League run. West Ham started on a downhill slope finishing 15th the
season. After that we enjoyed two successful seasons followed by a narrow
escape and eventual relegation, finishing in a pitiful 20th place.
But when you look back at our Premier League history, you don't see a side
who have always struggled to stay up - you see a fairly mid-table side who
have been unluckily relegated, twice! What Big Sam has realised is that, we
need a side, confident and ready.
We acquired a deal with adidas to produce our shirts. I'm not saying that
this is the independent variable, which will inevitably lead to West Ham
becoming England's Real Madrid, but it is reflective of the positive future
the Hammers have on the horizon. We've signed the most expensive English
player in football history, we are moving to a colossal new (Olympic)
stadium and we still worry about relegation?
Ludicrous! Too many people still see West Ham as the 'up and down' side but
with such a promising future ahead, how can we justify fears of relegation?
Rather than asking: "How long till we go back down?" I'm thinking: "How long
till we qualify for Europe?"
We enter season 2013/2014 in a tricky situation. We haven't been back in the
Premier League long enough to be considered a serious threat to the
longer-serving members, yet we finished too high last season to be ignored.
We are in a state of limbo and the season coming will decide our fate; sink
or swim.
Is Big Sam getting it right? Absolutely. A massive signing has already
arrived at the club and our targets are set on another striker to accompany
him. News of a £10million offer for Vitesse star Wilfried Bony was recently
all over the West Ham transfer pages, as well as the possibility of loaning
Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea (and even a slightly less expensive option in,
Salomon Kalou from French side Lille OSC).
Carlton Cole has regrettably left the Hammers so bringing in another
successful, goalscoring striker is imperative to our success this coming
season. My one complaint last season was the lack of goals from strikers.
Our top scorer was skipper Kevin Nolan in midfield; if we want to be
consistent next season we need reliable forwards. Big Sam is making the
right decision bringing big name forwards to the club, as to be taken
seriously West Ham need big players coming in to show other sides we are a
genuine force to be reckoned with.
So will those pretty bubbles continue to fly high next season, or will they
fade and die? Time will only tell on that one, but we can be sure that Big
Sam is making the right decisions now. You couldn't blame anyone for being
sceptical of the money we've spent so far, but in the footballing industry
it's 'go hard or go home'! West Ham potentially have a very promising season
ahead. Our first game against Cardiff promises to be an exciting start to
what should be another successful season in the top flight!
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Interest mounts in West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans
Last Updated: July 8, 2013 6:17pm
SSN
A number of clubs are ready to launch moves for West Brom midfielder Graham
Dorrans. The Scotland international was told in January that he could look
for a new club, but the 26-year-old remained at the Hawthorns and completed
the season with the Baggies. He played over 20 games for West Brom, but it
is still understood that boss Steve Clarke will not stand in his way should
an offer come in. Sky Sports understands that a number of Premier League
clubs are ready to make offers. Amongst them are West Ham, who have
previously had bids rejected, and they remain abreast of the situation along
with newly-promoted Cardiff City. Dorrans currently has two years left on
his deal with the Baggies.
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Liverpool In Talks With West Ham Over Stewart Downing Sale
by Thomas Bore July 9th, 2013
caughtoffside.com
Upton Park side look to seal second Anfield raid of the summer. West Ham
United have held talks with Liverpool for the second time this transfer
window, this time over the availability of Stewart Downing according to the
Guardian. The Merseyside club have told the Hammers they want £8million for
their 28 year-old winger as they look to remove him from the club's wage
bill. It is unlikely that David Sullivan and co will be interested in a fee
of that size, especially after just paying £15.5million for 24 year-old
striker Andy Carroll. A fee in the region of £4million is a lot closer to
what the Hammers valuate the winger at, who has two years remaining on his
Anfield contract.
The former Aston Villa star has failed to impress for Liverpool since his
£20million move back in 2011, managing just 7 goals, and 11 assists, in his
91 appearances. But with the likes of Carlton Cole and Robert Hall leaving
the London based club this summer, Allardyce is fairly limited when it comes
to attacking options – with only one striker with more than 20 Premier
League appearances (Andy Carroll).
In other news, West Ham are trying to fight off interest from Newcastle for
their English centre back James Tomkins. The 24 year-old was being tracked
by Joe Kinnear and his team but when the Hammers responded to their enquiry
with an asking price of £6million, the Magpies appeared to have refused to
follow up their interest. Although negotiations are ongoing, it is unlikely
that David Sullivan will allow James Tomkins to leave the Boleyn Ground for
anything less than £6million this summer – especially with no replacement
lined up.
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Everton close in on Diame move
By talkSPORT | Monday, July 8, 2013
Everton could be poised to make a bid for West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame.
The Senegal international was strongly linked with moves to Tottenham and
Arsenal back in the January transfer window as he is reported to have a
£3.5m buy-out clause in his contract. Diame was outstanding for the east
London club last season and played a major role in helping the Hammers
secure a top-half finish in the Premier League. New Everton manager Roberto
Martinez is keen to bring in his own players and following the signing of
Arouna Kone from Wigan, he is now looking to bring in a new midfielder. The
Spanish coach knows Diame well having managed him at Wigan, which could work
in his favour as he knows the qualities he can bring to a team. But West Ham
will be doing everything in their power to ensure the 26-year-old remains at
Upton Park and could even offer him a new long-term deal.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 8th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that his squad isn't a million miles away from that
with which he hopes to start the new 2013/14 season. Allardyce, whose team
opened their pre-season campaign with a 6-2 win against Cork City at the
Turner's Cross Stadium last night has already brought in three players to
challenge for a first team berth, namely goalkeeper Adrian San Miguel del
Castillo, defender Razvan Rat and striker Andy Carroll. And whilst he
continues to seek further improvements - albeit with limited available
finances - Allardyce admits that he won't be looking to make too many more
changes before now and the start of the new campaign against Cardiff on
August 17th. "I think they [the new signings] will add real quality to the
squad, but you always want a little bit more and you are never satisfied as
a manager," he told whufc.com. "I am not saying that is the end of what we
are going to bring in and we will look to add one more player at least. If
we can secure that one more player, that would probably be it. "What I want
in that one player is top quality. I want that player to challenge the
players already here for their place immediately and keep it. That would
help improve the team. "I want somebody to come in and make a real
difference, as we did last year when the players we brought in made a
massive difference. That took us to the next level and led to us having a
fantastic season and finish tenth."
West Ham continue to be linked with a number of players in all areas of the
field, although Allardyce remains most keen to add at least one more striker
to his pack before the start of the new season. Co-chairmen David Sullivan
and David Gold spent much of last week in France on transfer business
although no details from that trip have emerged as of yet.
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The season ahead
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 8th July 2013
By: Andrew Patterson
With the pretty bubbles at the Boleyn Ground flying high, following a
successful first season back in the big league, Big Sam has completed the
biggest transfer in West Ham's history. But are all these positives leading
to a false sense of security? What happens when those bubbles burst?
The season to come can go one of two ways. We can be as successful as last
season which, let's be honest, would be a massive achievement - or it can
all go wrong; relegation.
What would we be left with if we took a trip back to the Championship? A
striker on a five-year deal costing us £100,000 a week? A contract worth
that much would cover most Championship squads! Needless to say, some
vulturesque, Premier League club would snap Andy Carroll up at a
not-so-handsome price.
In the 2004/05 season we were promoted from the Championship and finished
the following season in a very respectable 9th place - not so unlike last
season. However we failed to finish higher than 9th again in that particular
Premier League run. West Ham started on a downhill slope finishing 15th the
season. After that we enjoyed two successful seasons followed by a narrow
escape and eventual relegation, finishing in a pitiful 20th place.
But when you look back at our Premier League history, you don't see a side
who have always struggled to stay up - you see a fairly mid-table side who
have been unluckily relegated, twice! What Big Sam has realised is that, we
need a side, confident and ready.
We acquired a deal with adidas to produce our shirts. I'm not saying that
this is the independent variable, which will inevitably lead to West Ham
becoming England's Real Madrid, but it is reflective of the positive future
the Hammers have on the horizon. We've signed the most expensive English
player in football history, we are moving to a colossal new (Olympic)
stadium and we still worry about relegation?
Ludicrous! Too many people still see West Ham as the 'up and down' side but
with such a promising future ahead, how can we justify fears of relegation?
Rather than asking: "How long till we go back down?" I'm thinking: "How long
till we qualify for Europe?"
We enter season 2013/2014 in a tricky situation. We haven't been back in the
Premier League long enough to be considered a serious threat to the
longer-serving members, yet we finished too high last season to be ignored.
We are in a state of limbo and the season coming will decide our fate; sink
or swim.
Is Big Sam getting it right? Absolutely. A massive signing has already
arrived at the club and our targets are set on another striker to accompany
him. News of a £10million offer for Vitesse star Wilfried Bony was recently
all over the West Ham transfer pages, as well as the possibility of loaning
Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea (and even a slightly less expensive option in,
Salomon Kalou from French side Lille OSC).
Carlton Cole has regrettably left the Hammers so bringing in another
successful, goalscoring striker is imperative to our success this coming
season. My one complaint last season was the lack of goals from strikers.
Our top scorer was skipper Kevin Nolan in midfield; if we want to be
consistent next season we need reliable forwards. Big Sam is making the
right decision bringing big name forwards to the club, as to be taken
seriously West Ham need big players coming in to show other sides we are a
genuine force to be reckoned with.
So will those pretty bubbles continue to fly high next season, or will they
fade and die? Time will only tell on that one, but we can be sure that Big
Sam is making the right decisions now. You couldn't blame anyone for being
sceptical of the money we've spent so far, but in the footballing industry
it's 'go hard or go home'! West Ham potentially have a very promising season
ahead. Our first game against Cardiff promises to be an exciting start to
what should be another successful season in the top flight!
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Interest mounts in West Brom midfielder Graham Dorrans
Last Updated: July 8, 2013 6:17pm
SSN
A number of clubs are ready to launch moves for West Brom midfielder Graham
Dorrans. The Scotland international was told in January that he could look
for a new club, but the 26-year-old remained at the Hawthorns and completed
the season with the Baggies. He played over 20 games for West Brom, but it
is still understood that boss Steve Clarke will not stand in his way should
an offer come in. Sky Sports understands that a number of Premier League
clubs are ready to make offers. Amongst them are West Ham, who have
previously had bids rejected, and they remain abreast of the situation along
with newly-promoted Cardiff City. Dorrans currently has two years left on
his deal with the Baggies.
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Liverpool In Talks With West Ham Over Stewart Downing Sale
by Thomas Bore July 9th, 2013
caughtoffside.com
Upton Park side look to seal second Anfield raid of the summer. West Ham
United have held talks with Liverpool for the second time this transfer
window, this time over the availability of Stewart Downing according to the
Guardian. The Merseyside club have told the Hammers they want £8million for
their 28 year-old winger as they look to remove him from the club's wage
bill. It is unlikely that David Sullivan and co will be interested in a fee
of that size, especially after just paying £15.5million for 24 year-old
striker Andy Carroll. A fee in the region of £4million is a lot closer to
what the Hammers valuate the winger at, who has two years remaining on his
Anfield contract.
The former Aston Villa star has failed to impress for Liverpool since his
£20million move back in 2011, managing just 7 goals, and 11 assists, in his
91 appearances. But with the likes of Carlton Cole and Robert Hall leaving
the London based club this summer, Allardyce is fairly limited when it comes
to attacking options – with only one striker with more than 20 Premier
League appearances (Andy Carroll).
In other news, West Ham are trying to fight off interest from Newcastle for
their English centre back James Tomkins. The 24 year-old was being tracked
by Joe Kinnear and his team but when the Hammers responded to their enquiry
with an asking price of £6million, the Magpies appeared to have refused to
follow up their interest. Although negotiations are ongoing, it is unlikely
that David Sullivan will allow James Tomkins to leave the Boleyn Ground for
anything less than £6million this summer – especially with no replacement
lined up.
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Everton close in on Diame move
By talkSPORT | Monday, July 8, 2013
Everton could be poised to make a bid for West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame.
The Senegal international was strongly linked with moves to Tottenham and
Arsenal back in the January transfer window as he is reported to have a
£3.5m buy-out clause in his contract. Diame was outstanding for the east
London club last season and played a major role in helping the Hammers
secure a top-half finish in the Premier League. New Everton manager Roberto
Martinez is keen to bring in his own players and following the signing of
Arouna Kone from Wigan, he is now looking to bring in a new midfielder. The
Spanish coach knows Diame well having managed him at Wigan, which could work
in his favour as he knows the qualities he can bring to a team. But West Ham
will be doing everything in their power to ensure the 26-year-old remains at
Upton Park and could even offer him a new long-term deal.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, July 8
Daily WHUFC News - 8th July 2013
Macca pleased with Cork victory
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald hailed a successful end to a hugely productive week in the
Republic of Ireland
07.07.2013
West Ham United signed-off a hugely successful week in the Republic of
Ireland with a 6-2 pre-season victory at Cork City. The Hammers kicked-off
their preparations for the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League campaign by going
goal-crazy at Turner's Cross, with six different players getting on the
scoresheet.
Alou Diarra headed in the opener before Joe Cole doubled the advantage with
a low first-time finish. Adam Rundle pulled one back before half-time before
Mark Noble uncharacteristically saw his penalty saved just after the
interval. Matt Taylor's long-range effort made it 3-1 before the youngsters
took centre-stage. Paul McCallum headed in Danny Whitehead's inch-perfect
cross before Noble made no mistake with a second spot-kick. McCallum then
turned provider for Ravel Morrison before Cork substitute Danny Morrissey
tapped in a late consolation. All in all, the match provided fine
entertainment for the 4,213 fans at the home of the Rebel Army, with
hundreds of those present wearing West Ham shirts. Assistant manager Neil
McDonald was understandably happy with what was a good 90 minutes at the
climax of a superb week of training at the Fota Island Resort. "It was a
fantastic workout. We've had a really, really good week and some superb
training sessions and everybody has got through everything, so the base is
there which is fantastic. We look forward to next week at Borehamwood and
Bournemouth. "I have to say we scored a few goals which gives everybody lots
of confidence. We conceded a couple but that's what happens in pre-season
and we've made a really good start. "Everybody got 45 minutes and has had a
really good week's training as well, so we're well pleased."
McDonald said every player and staff member had enjoyed their week in south
west Ireland, from the facilities and food laid on at the hotel to the
welcome they received from everyone at Cork City. "I would like to think
everyone was a winner. The facilities have been great and we've been well
looked after and I don't think we could have come to a better place. All in
all, it's a satisfying week, that's for sure."
The assistant manager was naturally pleased with the performances of
youngsters McCallum, Whitehead and Morrison, while also delighted to see all
the players blend together so well after just a few days on the training
pitch. "It was great. We've got a few young ones knocking on the door and
we've got to do that on a regular basis. We're looking for consistency, not
just from the young kids but from the seniors as well. "We had a good mix in
both games and everyone complemented each other and worked hard for each
other. When the chances came along, we put them in the back of the net, so
it was a great start but nothing to get too excited about. "We've still got
a lot of work to do and we need to make sure that this first week's training
is under our belt. We move on and get stronger and fitter and better with
and without the ball leading up to the Cardiff game [on 17 August], which is
the most important game of the season."
West Ham return to England on Monday before contesting their second
pre-season fixture at Conference South side Boreham Wood on Wednesday
evening.
A year ago, the Hammers were held to a 1-1 draw at Meadow Park and McDonald
is expecting a similarly testing evening this time around. "Everybody who
was in Ireland will probably be involved again. Everybody is fit so they'll
play another 45 minutes and we'll switch the team around again, which will
be a great experience for the young ones and a great workout for everybody.
"The pitch will be good and the atmosphere will be good as well. We're
looking forward to it."
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Big Sam happy to be back
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce says West Ham United are looking forward to a productive
2013/14 season
07.07.2013
Sam Allardyce has been through more than 40 pre-seasons during his career as
a player, coach and manager, but the anticipation remains as big as ever for
the West Ham United boss. Big Sam starts his third campaign in charge at the
Boleyn Ground with the Barclays Premier League visit of Cardiff City on
Saturday 17 August. Before then, however, the manager hopes to further
strengthen his squad, while also ensuring his players are fit and ready for
the season ahead.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham TV at the Club's pre-season training camp
in Cork, Republic of Ireland, Big Sam also praised their opening pre-season
opponents Cork City for their hospitality on the Emerald Isle. "Our norm is
to go Switzerland or Austria at this time of year in pre-season for a little
bit of altitude training in the forests, but this year we have come to
Ireland and the overall care and hospitality that Cork City have shown us
has been absolutely excellent," said Big Sam. "Along with the facilities -
two fabulous pitches, a great hotel and superb areas in the forest for the
lads to do their early-morning bike rides - it is also a lot shorter journey
than going to Austria so everybody has enjoyed it that little bit more. "The
training has been as intense as ever at this time of year and everybody is
feeling a little fatigued now, but they'll get 45 minutes in and, as long as
we don't get any injuries it will have been a very worthwhile trip. Both us
and Cork City have also enjoyed it very much and hopefully we can stay in
contact in the future because of the facilities here and the way they have
looked after us."
While Big Sam enjoyed his summer break, the constant nature of the transfer
market and planning for the upcoming campaign meant he was never far from
his mobile phone or laptop. While he anticipates a quieter time than in the
previous two years, the manager still has plenty of work to do between now
and the big kick-off. "For me, it's two years in and fewer players will have
to leave or come into the Club, which is great for me. The last two seasons
have been traumatic in change-around terms, particularly the first one when
I look back on it. It was horrendous, with something like 28 players going
out and 20 coming in during one season. We had to cope with that and
re-build the football team. "At this moment in time, I'm a lot more
comfortable because the players and staff know what I am looking for and how
I work. They know what I want and it is their responsibility to drive the
players forward in every department to extract even more out of them this
year than they did last season."
Big Sam and his staff have already been busy in the market, bringing in
England forwar Andy Carroll, Romania captain Razvan Rat, Spanish goalkeeper
Adrian and youngster Danny Whitehead on permanent deals. While he does not
expect to be signing too many more new players, the manager confirmed that
his business is not yet complete. "I think they will add real quality to the
squad. You always want a little bit more and you are never satisfied as a
manager. I am not saying that is the end of what we are going to bring in
and we will look to add one more player at least. If we can secure that one
more player, that would probably be it. "What I want in that one player is
top quality. I want that player coming in to challenge the players already
here for their place immediately and keep it. That would help improve the
team. I want somebody to come in and make a real difference, as we did last
year when the players we brought in made a massive difference. That took us
to the next level and led to us having a fantastic season and finish tenth."
More follows shortly...
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Cork City 2-6 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's pre-season got off to a flying start here in Cork tonight as Big
Sam's boys thrashed their hosts by six goals to two. Goals from Alou Diarra
and Joe Cole gave the Hammers an early two-goal advantage before the hosts
reduced the deficit through Rundle to keep within reach of United at the
break. The visitors had a chance to extend their lead just 90 seconds after
the restart but Mark Noble saw his spot kick saved by City 'keeper Kevin
Burns. However West Ham finally restored their two-goal lead on the hour
mark when a low Matt Taylor drive whistled into the back of the next. It was
4-1 ten minutes later when Paul McCallum combined with Danny Whitehead to
finish with a fine header - and Mark Noble redeemed himself for his earlier
miss with a converted spot kick with 15 minutes of normal time remaining.
Still not done, United added a sixth goal when the lively Ravel Morrison
scored his first goal for the first team squad with a fierce drive after
being set up by goalscorer McCallum. But the final cheer of the night was
reserved for the home side who grabbed their second goal of the game through
Morrissey, who converted a Kilduff cross from close range.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen (Adrian 46), Demel (Rat 46), Collins (Reid 46),
Bramble (Tomkins 46), Potts, Diarra (Noble 46), Collison (McCallum 46),
Nolan (Morrison 46), Cole (Vaz Te 46), Jarvis (Taylor 46), Maiga (Whitehead
46).
Cork City: Burns, D.Murphy (J.Kavanagh 46), Duggan (E.Murphy 46), Behan,
Rundle (Forde 46), Furlong (Turner 46), Dunleavy, Spillane (Morrissey 46),
Kenny (O'Connell 46), Buckley (Horgan 46), Browne (D.Kavanagh 46).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Noble misses penalty' shocker
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Well it had to happen eventually; Mark Noble's run of successful spot kicks
is over after his second half penalty was saved in tonight's pre-season
friendly in Cork. Noble stepped up confidently - as usual - to take the
penalty just 90 seconds after the restart in tonight's match. However the
entire 4,213 crowd were stunned when Kevin Burns tipped the midfielder's
spot kick wide of his post. Fortunately for Noble, he was able to redeem
himself with quarter-of-an-hour remaining in tonight's friendly when he sent
Burns the wrong way, scoring the fifth of West Ham's goals in a 6-2 win. The
last time Noble missed from 12 yards was in a 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea in
April 2009.
Mark Noble's Penalty Record
8 Aug 2007 v Birmingham (a)
30 Jan 2008 v Liverpool (h)
03 Jan 2009 v Barnsley (h)
18 Jan 2009 v Fulham (h)
24 Jan 2009 v Hartlepool (a)
28 Jan 2009 v Hull City (h, miss)
04 Nov 2009 v Aston Villa (h)
25 April 2009 v Chelsea (h, miss)
21 Aug 2010 v Bolton (h)
16 Oct 2010 v Wolves (a)
02 April 2011 v Manchester United (h, 2)
10 Sept 2011 v Portsmouth (h)
24 Sept 2011 v Peterborough (h)
26 Nov 2011 v Derby (h)
14 Jan 2012 v Portsmouth (a)
21 Jan 2012 v Nottingham Forest (h, 2)
14 Feb 2012 v Southampton (h)
20 Oct 2012 v Southampton (h)
9 Dec 2012 v Liverpool (h)
1 Jan 2013 v Norwich (h)
Mark has scored from 20 of his 22 penalty attempts.
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West Ham beat Cork City 6-2 in first pre-season friendly
Last Updated: July 7, 2013 9:27pm
SSN
West Ham United kicked off their pre-season friendly programme with a
convincing 6-2 victory over Cork City. Sam Allardyce's side have spent the
past few days training in Ireland and used 21 players against Cork,
including former Sunderland defender Titus Bramble. The Premier League club
made a flying start to the game as Alou Diarra headed home Joe Cole's corner
after just five minutes and the same two players were involved in the second
goal on 18 minutes.
Diarra picked up possession and fed Kevin Nolan, who played in Cole to
finish, and it was almost 3-0 on the half-hour when Modibo Maiga clipped the
crossbar.
Cork pulled a goal back on 38 minutes through former Rochdale winger Adam
Rundle and the hosts were given a reprieve two minutes into the second half
when Mark Noble saw a penalty saved after Ravel Morrison had been fouled.
Matt Taylor drilled home a low shot from 25 yards on 62 minutes and West Ham
made it 4-1 on 72 minutes when new signing Danny Whitehead's cross was
headed home by Paul McCallum. Noble was successful from the penalty spot a
minute later and Morrison got in on the act with five minutes to go before
Cork notched a second through Rob Lehane.
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Matt Jarvis dreaming of silverware at West Ham
Last Updated: July 7, 2013 2:33pm
SSN
Matt Jarvis hopes Wigan's shock FA Cup triumph last season will inspire
clubs like West Ham to grab silverware. The Hammers came tantalisingly close
to lifting the cup in Cardiff in 2006, only to lose on penalties to
Liverpool after a thrilling 3-3 draw. It was the Latics who bundled Jarvis
and his team-mates out of the Capital One Cup last season, while the FA Cup
dreams of Sam Allardyce's side were ended by Manchester United in a
third-round replay. However, seeing Wigan celebrate at Wembley has whetted
Jarvis' appetite for the cup campaigns ahead. "What Wigan did in beating
Manchester City to lift the FA Cup has made clubs like us realise it can be
done now - that trophies are not the preserve of the so-called big boys,"
said Jarvis. "Our first aim will be to go on a winning spree in the Premier
League so that when the cup competitions come around, we'll be able to hit
the ground running. "We have ambitious players here. There isn't one of us
who does not want to win a trophy."
Jarvis believes the arrival of striker Andy Carroll on a permanent
£19million deal from Liverpool will be a major boost to West Ham's hopes of
success in 2013/14. "Andy isn't a new player as such. He has already had a
year on loan here so he knows the place inside out," added Jarvis to the
Daily Star Sunday.
"That is the kind of advantage that can fill you with confidence after a
move like this. "He is an experienced man. He had the same burden at
Liverpool that he has to deal with now. That was a huge learning experience.
"For us, he has already proved to be a massive player - and I've no doubt he
will have a major impact this year."
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Bram stoker
Published: 07th July 2013
The Sun
TITUS BRAMBLE helped West Ham to a 6-2 friendly victory over Cork City. The
centre-back, 31, has been training with the Hammers after being released by
Sunderland. Bramble, who is not wanted by the fans, played 45 minutes in
Ireland. Alou Diarra, Joe Cole, Matt Taylor, Paul McCallum, Mark Noble and
Ravel Morrison netted for the Irons.
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Cork City 2 West Ham 6: Bramble starts as Hammers kick off pre-season in
style with SIX different players getting on scoresheet
By ELLIOTT BRETLAND
PUBLISHED: 22:39, 7 July 2013 | UPDATED: 00:52, 8 July 2013
Daily Mail
West Ham United kicked off their pre-season preparations in style with a 6-2
victory against League of Ireland Premier Division side Cork City as six
different Hammers' players got themselves on the scoresheet. New boys Razvan
Rat, Adrian and Danny Whitehead all began the game on the bench for West Ham
while boss Sam Allardyce handed a start to defender Titus Bramble as he
continues to work on his fitness with the club. West Ham have spent the last
few days in Ireland but new record signing Andy Carroll didn't travel,
instead he stayed in England to receive treatment for a heel injury.
TEAMS
Cork City: Burns, D.Murphy, Duggan, Behan, Rundle, Furlong, Dunleavy,
Spillane, Kenny, Buckley, Browne.
Second-half XI: Burns, J Kavanagh, Dunleavy, O'Connell, D Murphy, E Murphy,
Morrissey, Turner, Horgan, D Kavanagh, Kilduff.
Goals: Rundle 38, Lehane 86.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Bramble, Potts, Diarra,
Collison, Nolan, Cole, Jarvis, Maiga.
Second-half XI: Adrian, Potts, Tomkins, Reid, Rat, Noble, Morrison,
Whitehead, Vaz Te, Taylor, McCallum.
Goals: Diarra 5, Cole 18, Taylor 63, McCallum 73, Mark Noble 75, Morrison
85.
Attendance: 4,213.
The Hammers started brightly at Turners Cross and took an early lead through
Alou Diarra as the Frenchman headed home a Joe Cole corner after just five
minutes. Dominating the opening stages, the Premier League side doubled
their advantage on 18 minutes as Cole switched from provider to goalscorer,
finishing past the onrushing Kevin Burns in the Cork net. Mali international
Modibo Maiga nearly made it three on the half-hour mark as his left-footed
shot shaved the crossbar. Having beaten reigning Champions Sligo Rovers 3-1
in a league match on Friday evening, Cork pulled a goal back on 38 minutes
through former Rochdale frontman Adam Rundle. Both sides made a host of
changes at half-time and West Ham were awarded a penalty just a minute into
the second-half after Ravel Morrison was fouled in the area. However Mark
Noble failed to find the net as he saw his spot-kick saved. Former
Portsmouth and Bolton winger Matt Taylor scored the Hammers' third on 62
minutes as he drilled home a low shot from distance. Young striker Paul
McCallum extended West Ham's lead ten minutes later, rising highest to
convert new signing Danny Whitehead's cross. Sam Allardyce's men added a
fifth just a minute later as Mark Noble was given a reprieve, making no
mistake with his second penalty after the referee had deemed Cork defender
John Kavanagh to have handled the ball in the box.
Morrison scored a sixth for West Ham on 85 minutes before Cork scored a
consolation shortly after through Rob Lehane. Hammers assistant Neil
McDonald was pleased with the side's performance and told the Official West
Ham United website: 'It was a fantastic workout. 'We've had a really,
really good week and some superb training sessions and everybody has got
through everything, so the base is there which is fantastic.' On their
return to England, West Ham will face Borehamwood and Bournemouth next week.
The club kick off their 2013/14 Premier League campaign against Cardiff City
at Upton Park on August 17.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald hailed a successful end to a hugely productive week in the
Republic of Ireland
07.07.2013
West Ham United signed-off a hugely successful week in the Republic of
Ireland with a 6-2 pre-season victory at Cork City. The Hammers kicked-off
their preparations for the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League campaign by going
goal-crazy at Turner's Cross, with six different players getting on the
scoresheet.
Alou Diarra headed in the opener before Joe Cole doubled the advantage with
a low first-time finish. Adam Rundle pulled one back before half-time before
Mark Noble uncharacteristically saw his penalty saved just after the
interval. Matt Taylor's long-range effort made it 3-1 before the youngsters
took centre-stage. Paul McCallum headed in Danny Whitehead's inch-perfect
cross before Noble made no mistake with a second spot-kick. McCallum then
turned provider for Ravel Morrison before Cork substitute Danny Morrissey
tapped in a late consolation. All in all, the match provided fine
entertainment for the 4,213 fans at the home of the Rebel Army, with
hundreds of those present wearing West Ham shirts. Assistant manager Neil
McDonald was understandably happy with what was a good 90 minutes at the
climax of a superb week of training at the Fota Island Resort. "It was a
fantastic workout. We've had a really, really good week and some superb
training sessions and everybody has got through everything, so the base is
there which is fantastic. We look forward to next week at Borehamwood and
Bournemouth. "I have to say we scored a few goals which gives everybody lots
of confidence. We conceded a couple but that's what happens in pre-season
and we've made a really good start. "Everybody got 45 minutes and has had a
really good week's training as well, so we're well pleased."
McDonald said every player and staff member had enjoyed their week in south
west Ireland, from the facilities and food laid on at the hotel to the
welcome they received from everyone at Cork City. "I would like to think
everyone was a winner. The facilities have been great and we've been well
looked after and I don't think we could have come to a better place. All in
all, it's a satisfying week, that's for sure."
The assistant manager was naturally pleased with the performances of
youngsters McCallum, Whitehead and Morrison, while also delighted to see all
the players blend together so well after just a few days on the training
pitch. "It was great. We've got a few young ones knocking on the door and
we've got to do that on a regular basis. We're looking for consistency, not
just from the young kids but from the seniors as well. "We had a good mix in
both games and everyone complemented each other and worked hard for each
other. When the chances came along, we put them in the back of the net, so
it was a great start but nothing to get too excited about. "We've still got
a lot of work to do and we need to make sure that this first week's training
is under our belt. We move on and get stronger and fitter and better with
and without the ball leading up to the Cardiff game [on 17 August], which is
the most important game of the season."
West Ham return to England on Monday before contesting their second
pre-season fixture at Conference South side Boreham Wood on Wednesday
evening.
A year ago, the Hammers were held to a 1-1 draw at Meadow Park and McDonald
is expecting a similarly testing evening this time around. "Everybody who
was in Ireland will probably be involved again. Everybody is fit so they'll
play another 45 minutes and we'll switch the team around again, which will
be a great experience for the young ones and a great workout for everybody.
"The pitch will be good and the atmosphere will be good as well. We're
looking forward to it."
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Big Sam happy to be back
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce says West Ham United are looking forward to a productive
2013/14 season
07.07.2013
Sam Allardyce has been through more than 40 pre-seasons during his career as
a player, coach and manager, but the anticipation remains as big as ever for
the West Ham United boss. Big Sam starts his third campaign in charge at the
Boleyn Ground with the Barclays Premier League visit of Cardiff City on
Saturday 17 August. Before then, however, the manager hopes to further
strengthen his squad, while also ensuring his players are fit and ready for
the season ahead.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham TV at the Club's pre-season training camp
in Cork, Republic of Ireland, Big Sam also praised their opening pre-season
opponents Cork City for their hospitality on the Emerald Isle. "Our norm is
to go Switzerland or Austria at this time of year in pre-season for a little
bit of altitude training in the forests, but this year we have come to
Ireland and the overall care and hospitality that Cork City have shown us
has been absolutely excellent," said Big Sam. "Along with the facilities -
two fabulous pitches, a great hotel and superb areas in the forest for the
lads to do their early-morning bike rides - it is also a lot shorter journey
than going to Austria so everybody has enjoyed it that little bit more. "The
training has been as intense as ever at this time of year and everybody is
feeling a little fatigued now, but they'll get 45 minutes in and, as long as
we don't get any injuries it will have been a very worthwhile trip. Both us
and Cork City have also enjoyed it very much and hopefully we can stay in
contact in the future because of the facilities here and the way they have
looked after us."
While Big Sam enjoyed his summer break, the constant nature of the transfer
market and planning for the upcoming campaign meant he was never far from
his mobile phone or laptop. While he anticipates a quieter time than in the
previous two years, the manager still has plenty of work to do between now
and the big kick-off. "For me, it's two years in and fewer players will have
to leave or come into the Club, which is great for me. The last two seasons
have been traumatic in change-around terms, particularly the first one when
I look back on it. It was horrendous, with something like 28 players going
out and 20 coming in during one season. We had to cope with that and
re-build the football team. "At this moment in time, I'm a lot more
comfortable because the players and staff know what I am looking for and how
I work. They know what I want and it is their responsibility to drive the
players forward in every department to extract even more out of them this
year than they did last season."
Big Sam and his staff have already been busy in the market, bringing in
England forwar Andy Carroll, Romania captain Razvan Rat, Spanish goalkeeper
Adrian and youngster Danny Whitehead on permanent deals. While he does not
expect to be signing too many more new players, the manager confirmed that
his business is not yet complete. "I think they will add real quality to the
squad. You always want a little bit more and you are never satisfied as a
manager. I am not saying that is the end of what we are going to bring in
and we will look to add one more player at least. If we can secure that one
more player, that would probably be it. "What I want in that one player is
top quality. I want that player coming in to challenge the players already
here for their place immediately and keep it. That would help improve the
team. I want somebody to come in and make a real difference, as we did last
year when the players we brought in made a massive difference. That took us
to the next level and led to us having a fantastic season and finish tenth."
More follows shortly...
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Cork City 2-6 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's pre-season got off to a flying start here in Cork tonight as Big
Sam's boys thrashed their hosts by six goals to two. Goals from Alou Diarra
and Joe Cole gave the Hammers an early two-goal advantage before the hosts
reduced the deficit through Rundle to keep within reach of United at the
break. The visitors had a chance to extend their lead just 90 seconds after
the restart but Mark Noble saw his spot kick saved by City 'keeper Kevin
Burns. However West Ham finally restored their two-goal lead on the hour
mark when a low Matt Taylor drive whistled into the back of the next. It was
4-1 ten minutes later when Paul McCallum combined with Danny Whitehead to
finish with a fine header - and Mark Noble redeemed himself for his earlier
miss with a converted spot kick with 15 minutes of normal time remaining.
Still not done, United added a sixth goal when the lively Ravel Morrison
scored his first goal for the first team squad with a fierce drive after
being set up by goalscorer McCallum. But the final cheer of the night was
reserved for the home side who grabbed their second goal of the game through
Morrissey, who converted a Kilduff cross from close range.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen (Adrian 46), Demel (Rat 46), Collins (Reid 46),
Bramble (Tomkins 46), Potts, Diarra (Noble 46), Collison (McCallum 46),
Nolan (Morrison 46), Cole (Vaz Te 46), Jarvis (Taylor 46), Maiga (Whitehead
46).
Cork City: Burns, D.Murphy (J.Kavanagh 46), Duggan (E.Murphy 46), Behan,
Rundle (Forde 46), Furlong (Turner 46), Dunleavy, Spillane (Morrissey 46),
Kenny (O'Connell 46), Buckley (Horgan 46), Browne (D.Kavanagh 46).
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'Noble misses penalty' shocker
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 7th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Well it had to happen eventually; Mark Noble's run of successful spot kicks
is over after his second half penalty was saved in tonight's pre-season
friendly in Cork. Noble stepped up confidently - as usual - to take the
penalty just 90 seconds after the restart in tonight's match. However the
entire 4,213 crowd were stunned when Kevin Burns tipped the midfielder's
spot kick wide of his post. Fortunately for Noble, he was able to redeem
himself with quarter-of-an-hour remaining in tonight's friendly when he sent
Burns the wrong way, scoring the fifth of West Ham's goals in a 6-2 win. The
last time Noble missed from 12 yards was in a 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea in
April 2009.
Mark Noble's Penalty Record
8 Aug 2007 v Birmingham (a)
30 Jan 2008 v Liverpool (h)
03 Jan 2009 v Barnsley (h)
18 Jan 2009 v Fulham (h)
24 Jan 2009 v Hartlepool (a)
28 Jan 2009 v Hull City (h, miss)
04 Nov 2009 v Aston Villa (h)
25 April 2009 v Chelsea (h, miss)
21 Aug 2010 v Bolton (h)
16 Oct 2010 v Wolves (a)
02 April 2011 v Manchester United (h, 2)
10 Sept 2011 v Portsmouth (h)
24 Sept 2011 v Peterborough (h)
26 Nov 2011 v Derby (h)
14 Jan 2012 v Portsmouth (a)
21 Jan 2012 v Nottingham Forest (h, 2)
14 Feb 2012 v Southampton (h)
20 Oct 2012 v Southampton (h)
9 Dec 2012 v Liverpool (h)
1 Jan 2013 v Norwich (h)
Mark has scored from 20 of his 22 penalty attempts.
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West Ham beat Cork City 6-2 in first pre-season friendly
Last Updated: July 7, 2013 9:27pm
SSN
West Ham United kicked off their pre-season friendly programme with a
convincing 6-2 victory over Cork City. Sam Allardyce's side have spent the
past few days training in Ireland and used 21 players against Cork,
including former Sunderland defender Titus Bramble. The Premier League club
made a flying start to the game as Alou Diarra headed home Joe Cole's corner
after just five minutes and the same two players were involved in the second
goal on 18 minutes.
Diarra picked up possession and fed Kevin Nolan, who played in Cole to
finish, and it was almost 3-0 on the half-hour when Modibo Maiga clipped the
crossbar.
Cork pulled a goal back on 38 minutes through former Rochdale winger Adam
Rundle and the hosts were given a reprieve two minutes into the second half
when Mark Noble saw a penalty saved after Ravel Morrison had been fouled.
Matt Taylor drilled home a low shot from 25 yards on 62 minutes and West Ham
made it 4-1 on 72 minutes when new signing Danny Whitehead's cross was
headed home by Paul McCallum. Noble was successful from the penalty spot a
minute later and Morrison got in on the act with five minutes to go before
Cork notched a second through Rob Lehane.
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Matt Jarvis dreaming of silverware at West Ham
Last Updated: July 7, 2013 2:33pm
SSN
Matt Jarvis hopes Wigan's shock FA Cup triumph last season will inspire
clubs like West Ham to grab silverware. The Hammers came tantalisingly close
to lifting the cup in Cardiff in 2006, only to lose on penalties to
Liverpool after a thrilling 3-3 draw. It was the Latics who bundled Jarvis
and his team-mates out of the Capital One Cup last season, while the FA Cup
dreams of Sam Allardyce's side were ended by Manchester United in a
third-round replay. However, seeing Wigan celebrate at Wembley has whetted
Jarvis' appetite for the cup campaigns ahead. "What Wigan did in beating
Manchester City to lift the FA Cup has made clubs like us realise it can be
done now - that trophies are not the preserve of the so-called big boys,"
said Jarvis. "Our first aim will be to go on a winning spree in the Premier
League so that when the cup competitions come around, we'll be able to hit
the ground running. "We have ambitious players here. There isn't one of us
who does not want to win a trophy."
Jarvis believes the arrival of striker Andy Carroll on a permanent
£19million deal from Liverpool will be a major boost to West Ham's hopes of
success in 2013/14. "Andy isn't a new player as such. He has already had a
year on loan here so he knows the place inside out," added Jarvis to the
Daily Star Sunday.
"That is the kind of advantage that can fill you with confidence after a
move like this. "He is an experienced man. He had the same burden at
Liverpool that he has to deal with now. That was a huge learning experience.
"For us, he has already proved to be a massive player - and I've no doubt he
will have a major impact this year."
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Bram stoker
Published: 07th July 2013
The Sun
TITUS BRAMBLE helped West Ham to a 6-2 friendly victory over Cork City. The
centre-back, 31, has been training with the Hammers after being released by
Sunderland. Bramble, who is not wanted by the fans, played 45 minutes in
Ireland. Alou Diarra, Joe Cole, Matt Taylor, Paul McCallum, Mark Noble and
Ravel Morrison netted for the Irons.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cork City 2 West Ham 6: Bramble starts as Hammers kick off pre-season in
style with SIX different players getting on scoresheet
By ELLIOTT BRETLAND
PUBLISHED: 22:39, 7 July 2013 | UPDATED: 00:52, 8 July 2013
Daily Mail
West Ham United kicked off their pre-season preparations in style with a 6-2
victory against League of Ireland Premier Division side Cork City as six
different Hammers' players got themselves on the scoresheet. New boys Razvan
Rat, Adrian and Danny Whitehead all began the game on the bench for West Ham
while boss Sam Allardyce handed a start to defender Titus Bramble as he
continues to work on his fitness with the club. West Ham have spent the last
few days in Ireland but new record signing Andy Carroll didn't travel,
instead he stayed in England to receive treatment for a heel injury.
TEAMS
Cork City: Burns, D.Murphy, Duggan, Behan, Rundle, Furlong, Dunleavy,
Spillane, Kenny, Buckley, Browne.
Second-half XI: Burns, J Kavanagh, Dunleavy, O'Connell, D Murphy, E Murphy,
Morrissey, Turner, Horgan, D Kavanagh, Kilduff.
Goals: Rundle 38, Lehane 86.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Collins, Bramble, Potts, Diarra,
Collison, Nolan, Cole, Jarvis, Maiga.
Second-half XI: Adrian, Potts, Tomkins, Reid, Rat, Noble, Morrison,
Whitehead, Vaz Te, Taylor, McCallum.
Goals: Diarra 5, Cole 18, Taylor 63, McCallum 73, Mark Noble 75, Morrison
85.
Attendance: 4,213.
The Hammers started brightly at Turners Cross and took an early lead through
Alou Diarra as the Frenchman headed home a Joe Cole corner after just five
minutes. Dominating the opening stages, the Premier League side doubled
their advantage on 18 minutes as Cole switched from provider to goalscorer,
finishing past the onrushing Kevin Burns in the Cork net. Mali international
Modibo Maiga nearly made it three on the half-hour mark as his left-footed
shot shaved the crossbar. Having beaten reigning Champions Sligo Rovers 3-1
in a league match on Friday evening, Cork pulled a goal back on 38 minutes
through former Rochdale frontman Adam Rundle. Both sides made a host of
changes at half-time and West Ham were awarded a penalty just a minute into
the second-half after Ravel Morrison was fouled in the area. However Mark
Noble failed to find the net as he saw his spot-kick saved. Former
Portsmouth and Bolton winger Matt Taylor scored the Hammers' third on 62
minutes as he drilled home a low shot from distance. Young striker Paul
McCallum extended West Ham's lead ten minutes later, rising highest to
convert new signing Danny Whitehead's cross. Sam Allardyce's men added a
fifth just a minute later as Mark Noble was given a reprieve, making no
mistake with his second penalty after the referee had deemed Cork defender
John Kavanagh to have handled the ball in the box.
Morrison scored a sixth for West Ham on 85 minutes before Cork scored a
consolation shortly after through Rob Lehane. Hammers assistant Neil
McDonald was pleased with the side's performance and told the Official West
Ham United website: 'It was a fantastic workout. 'We've had a really,
really good week and some superb training sessions and everybody has got
through everything, so the base is there which is fantastic.' On their
return to England, West Ham will face Borehamwood and Bournemouth next week.
The club kick off their 2013/14 Premier League campaign against Cardiff City
at Upton Park on August 17.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 7
Daily WHUFC News - 7th July 2013
On this day - 7 July
WHUFC.com
Former Hammers loanee Jan Lastuvka turns 31 today
07.07.2013
Anniversary
Name: Jan Lastuvka
Born: Havirov, Czechoslovakia, 7 July 1982
Clubs: FC Karvina, Banik Ostrava, Shakhtar Donetsk, Fulham (loan), VfL
Bochum (loan), West Ham United (loan), Dnipro
International: Czech Republic - three caps, no goals
One-time Hammers loan goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka is today celebrating his 31st
birthday. The Czech stopper spent the 2008/09 campaign on loan at the Boleyn
Ground from Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk. He did not make a Premier
League appearance for the Hammers, but did feature in a League Cup third
round defeat at Fulham. That would be his only appearance in claret and
blue, and he returned to Shakhtar at the end of the season, before moving to
fellow Ukrainian club Dnipro, where he is still plying his trade. Born in
the Czech Republic, he played for Karvina and Banik Ostrava in his homeland
in the early part of his career and earned his first international caps in
2011. Lastuvka also played in England for Fulham, during another loan from
Shakhtar, during which he played eight league games.
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Cork Hammers welcome West Ham
WHUFC.com
The Cork Hammers supporters' club are delighted to welcome West Ham United
to south west Ireland
06.07.2013
Sunday's pre-season fixture between West Ham United and Cork City will be
particularly special for one group of supporters. The Cork Hammers
supporters' club was formed in 1994, but the links between the southern
Irish city and east London go back much further. Nearly 100 years ago, in
1918, the Ford Motor Company opened a plant in Cork - the ancestral home of
the Ford family - followed five years later by a second plant in Dagenham.
As the east London plant continued to expand, many workers moved over from
Ireland to continue their employment.
The links grew during the 1940s and 1950s, when a succession of Ireland's
top players swapped the Emerald Isle for the Boleyn Ground - Cork United
midfielder Tommy Moroney and wing-half Frank O'Farrell, Cork Athletic
full-back Noel Cantwell, Shamrock Rovers centre forward Freddie Kearns and
Shelbourne inside forward Danny McGowan among them. Thanks to the support of
Cork Hammers chairman Stephen McCarthy and his fellow members, those links
remain as strong as ever. "My late uncle Jim worked with Ford in Dagenham in
the 1970s and brought me home a West Ham shirt when I was just six years
old," said McCarthy. "This is a story that many fellow Cork Hammers will
also repeat from that time. Despite having two older siblings supporting
Leeds and Liverpool respectively, I was drawn by the passion that is West
Ham and have not looked back since. "Ford had a major car manufacturing
plant in Cork dating back to the 1930s, as well, and many employees of the
company transferred between the two.For this reason, and the fact that
London was always so accessible from Ireland, there has been a long
connection with the Irons."
Since the pioneering Moroney, O'Farrell, Kearns and Cantwell, West Ham have
continued to attract some fine Irish players, including Noel Dwyer, Liam
Brady, Robbie Keane and current squad members Joey O'Brien and Stephen
Henderson. "There is a long history of Irish players going to West Ham and
passionate West Ham supporters in Ireland," McCarthy confirmed. "Our very
own Sir Trevor Brooking even played two games for Cork City before his
retirement in the 1980s. "In fact, many Irish fans will tell you that West
Ham are their second team. The history that goes with the Club and the fact
that West Ham won the World Cup in 1966 resonates with many of us."
Nowadays, West Ham's presence in Ireland's second-largest county is
personified by the Cork Hammers, who meet in the city to watch the team on
television, while also making regular trips over the Irish Sea to the Boleyn
Ground. "Cork Hammers was founded in 1994 after a notice was placed in the
local Evening Echo newspaper seeking fellow West Ham supporters in the Cork
area to come together and form an official supporters' club," said McCarthy.
"The supporters' club was formed by Denis O'Donovan, John Kelleher and
Brendan Ryan and took up residency in the aptly-named Sir Geoff Hurst room
in the Telecom Social Club on MacCurtain Street in the city. "Membership
grew over the years and several ups and downs were witnessed, either on
trips to the Boleyn, Cardiff, Wembley or indeed on TV here in Cork. "The
Cork Hammers have grown ever since and the visit of the Irons to Leeside, we
hope, will encourage further Cork Hammers to join the club."
The Cork Hammers will be out in force on Sunday evening, when West Ham take
on League of Ireland Premier Division side Cork City in a pre-season match
at Turner's Cross, with kick-off at 6pm. Chairman McCarthy confirmed that
excitement is growing ahead of the Hammers' first appearance on Irish soil
since 2000. "We have been waiting for more than 13 years to see the Hammers
play in Ireland since we played St Patrick's Athletic in Richmond Park,
Dublin in 2000. "Cork City are a decent footballing side and in the middle
of their season so the Hammers' fitness will certainly be tested on Sunday.
"The Cork Hammers will be making a presentation to the Club to mark the
occasion and are looking forward to a great game."
Looking further into the future, McCarthy is hoping for more success under
the guidance of former Limerick manager Sam Allardyce. "We feel the Hammers
are on the brink of bigger things again. There is a good vibe about the
Club.The owners are putting their hands in their pockets, we have a
world-class stadium to move to and even a quality smart-looking kit.All
these things augur well for the Hammers. "We need to strengthen the squad
now with quality in certain areas and build for the future.A quality Academy
will breed success in due course as well, but we need to bring in quality
and maintain momentum now. "A top-eight finish would be good in the 2013/14
season, while a trophy with it would be even better! We need to look above
and beyond this and take the Hammers back to the heights of the Boys of '86
and better again. "Our new kit even has a remarkable resemblance to that
worn by the likes of McAvennie, Brooking and Cottee!Let's look to secure
Champions League status by 2016 and bring Europe's best to the Olympic
Stadium. "Above all, for Cork Hammers it is fundamental that the Club
retains the openness and genuine willingness to welcome supporters like Cork
Hammers to the East End on trips to cheer on the Irons.COYI!"
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Roland is learning the West Ham Way
WHUFC.com
Talented linguist Razvan Rat is already speaking the same language as his
new West Ham United team-mates
07.07.2013
Razvan Rat is already fluent in five languages and he is now eager to learn
the West Ham Way. West Ham United's summer capture from Shakhtar Donetsk
speaks Romanian, English, Spanish, Russian and Portuguese, impressing his
new team-mates with his versatile linguistic skills. Rat has also caught the
eye with the skill and ability that saw him star for Shakhtar in the UEFA
Champions League and captain his home country of Romania. The left-back has
been nicknamed 'Roland' by his Hammers colleagues in tribute to the 1980s TV
character, but the player himself explained that the correct pronunciation
is slightly different. "In my language it is pronounced 'Rats' but you don't
have the letter in English, so you can only say the sound with 'ts'," he
explained. "For me, it doesn't matter because it is just a coincidence [that
my name is the same as an animal]. It will be a good opportunity to laugh
more! "I was trying to improve my language skills. I speak Spanish because
it is quite close to my language, I was speaking Russian because I was
living in Ukraine and also Portuguese because we had about ten Brazilians in
our squad at Shakhtar and the coach was talking a lot in Portuguese as well.
"I just learned the languages by myself - it is nothing special!"
Moving onto less important matters, Rat has quickly settled into the group
after a decade in Ukraine with Shakhtar, where he won more than a dozen
trophies and played 300 times. A strong and tenacious defender with superb
technique and great experience, the 32-year-old is now hoping to make his
mark in the Barclays Premier League. "I am starting to get used to this
team. I need to adapt here very fast so I need to understand the philosophy
of this team. I want to be one of them very, very soon." Rat has shared a
room with another international star, Joe Cole, during West Ham's pre-season
training camp in Cork, while he has also struck up instant relationships
with the likes of Matt Jarvis and Matt Taylor. "The boys are amazing. They
have welcomed me and are speaking with me and helping me. I share a room
with Joe Cole so we've had a lot of talks. "Hopefully I will integrate into
the group very fast and be one of the men of the group. "It is a bit strange
for me but I understand this is my new team and my new family. I will try to
do my best to adapt very fast and to be a good player here. I want to show
my best, that's all."
Rat has got used to vying for the Ukrainian title and playing against
Europe's finest clubs, but now he is relishing a different type of challenge
in English football.
"My personal goal is to play regularly. This is my first goal and, after
that, you never know. Maybe we can have a good season and can get a place in
the UEFA Europa League. You never know. "Hopefully we will play some good
football and everything is possible."
Rat becomes the latest in a succession of Romanian stars to try their luck
in England, many of whom arrived after the country's fourth-place finish at
the 1994 FIFA World Cup. While Dan Petrescu enjoyed great times at Chelsea,
Florin Raducioiu and Ilie Dumitrescu had indifferent spells with West Ham.
The 89-times capped defender is planning to show Hammers supporters his
ability and prove that the Eastern European nation is still producing
world-class players. "This is also my goal - first to prove to myself that I
can play here in the Premier League and after that, to prove the manager
that he was not wrong to bring me here. That is a good goal for me.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to launch bid for Estudiantes striker Duvan Zapata
Last Updated: July 6, 2013 9:19am
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham United are set to launch a bid for Duvan
Zapata, one of the most highly-rated young players in South America. The
22-year-old striker is currently with Argentine giants Estudiantes and a
host of clubs have been tracking the £10million-rated marksman. Borussia
Dortmund, Lyon, Besiktas and Benfica have all shown an interest in the
Colombian, who scored 14 goals last season in the Argentine top flight.
However, West Ham - who have strong links in South America - have been
keeping tabs on Zapata for a number of months and they have now decided to
make a move for the powerful 6ft 2in front-man. Zapata is yet to make his
full debut for Colombia, but it is believed he will be part of their squad
before next summer's World Cup finals, which they are on course to qualify
for. Zapata is being tipped to become the next Colombian to break into
European football following on from the likes of Radamel Falcao and James
Rodriguez, who began on the same career path from their homeland, to
Argentina and then Europe.
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ANDY CARROLL SUM IS NO PROBLEM
Daily Star
7th July 2013 By Matt Jarvis
Matt Jarvis reckons Andy Carroll has learned from his Anfield hell – and
won't buckle under the pressure of yet another big-money move Carroll, 24,
choked when forced to wear the record- signing label around his neck at
Liverpool – but Jarvis is convinced the giant 6ft 3ins striker will cope
with the burden at Upton Park. The England front man cost the Hammers
£19million when he signed a permanent six-year-deal last month – after an
initial year on loan in east London.
And Jarvis (right) the club's previous record buy at £7.5m, said: "I had the
pressure of being our most expensive player all last year. "That did have a
hold on me – but that won't be an issue for Andy. Firstly, this is an easy
club to settle into. "Secondly, Andy isn't a new player as such. He has
already had a year on loan here so he knows the place inside out. "And that
is the kind of advantage that can fill you with confidence after a move like
this. "Thirdly, he is an experienced man. He had the same burden at
Liverpool that he has to deal with now. That was a huge learning
experience. "For us, he has already proved to be a massive player – and I've
no doubt he will have a major impact this year."
So much so that Jarvis is tipping the Hammers to have their best season
since 1980 – and use Wigan's FA Cup triumph as their inspiration to end
their 33 years of hurt. He said: "What Wigan did in beating Manchester City
to lift the FA Cup has made clubs like us realise it can be done now – that
trophies are not the preserve of the so-called big boys. "Our first aim
will be to go on a winning spree in the Premier League so that when the cup
competitions come around, we will be able to hit the ground running. "We
have ambitious players here. There isn't one of us who does not want to win
a trophy."
And silverware is not the only accolade that Middlesbrough-born Jarvis, 27,
wants to win. Having made his England debut two years ago against Ghana –
the former Wolves winger is determined to leave the one-cap-wonder club. He
said: "Like any player, as soon as you get one cap, you want to get
another. "I have not given up on getting back in there. Last year, I worked
extremely hard to get myself back in the frame and, hopefully, I can kick on
again. "If there is one thing you are guaranteed from me, it is hard work.
"I'll give myself every chance."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Former Hammers loanee Jan Lastuvka turns 31 today
07.07.2013
Anniversary
Name: Jan Lastuvka
Born: Havirov, Czechoslovakia, 7 July 1982
Clubs: FC Karvina, Banik Ostrava, Shakhtar Donetsk, Fulham (loan), VfL
Bochum (loan), West Ham United (loan), Dnipro
International: Czech Republic - three caps, no goals
One-time Hammers loan goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka is today celebrating his 31st
birthday. The Czech stopper spent the 2008/09 campaign on loan at the Boleyn
Ground from Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk. He did not make a Premier
League appearance for the Hammers, but did feature in a League Cup third
round defeat at Fulham. That would be his only appearance in claret and
blue, and he returned to Shakhtar at the end of the season, before moving to
fellow Ukrainian club Dnipro, where he is still plying his trade. Born in
the Czech Republic, he played for Karvina and Banik Ostrava in his homeland
in the early part of his career and earned his first international caps in
2011. Lastuvka also played in England for Fulham, during another loan from
Shakhtar, during which he played eight league games.
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Cork Hammers welcome West Ham
WHUFC.com
The Cork Hammers supporters' club are delighted to welcome West Ham United
to south west Ireland
06.07.2013
Sunday's pre-season fixture between West Ham United and Cork City will be
particularly special for one group of supporters. The Cork Hammers
supporters' club was formed in 1994, but the links between the southern
Irish city and east London go back much further. Nearly 100 years ago, in
1918, the Ford Motor Company opened a plant in Cork - the ancestral home of
the Ford family - followed five years later by a second plant in Dagenham.
As the east London plant continued to expand, many workers moved over from
Ireland to continue their employment.
The links grew during the 1940s and 1950s, when a succession of Ireland's
top players swapped the Emerald Isle for the Boleyn Ground - Cork United
midfielder Tommy Moroney and wing-half Frank O'Farrell, Cork Athletic
full-back Noel Cantwell, Shamrock Rovers centre forward Freddie Kearns and
Shelbourne inside forward Danny McGowan among them. Thanks to the support of
Cork Hammers chairman Stephen McCarthy and his fellow members, those links
remain as strong as ever. "My late uncle Jim worked with Ford in Dagenham in
the 1970s and brought me home a West Ham shirt when I was just six years
old," said McCarthy. "This is a story that many fellow Cork Hammers will
also repeat from that time. Despite having two older siblings supporting
Leeds and Liverpool respectively, I was drawn by the passion that is West
Ham and have not looked back since. "Ford had a major car manufacturing
plant in Cork dating back to the 1930s, as well, and many employees of the
company transferred between the two.For this reason, and the fact that
London was always so accessible from Ireland, there has been a long
connection with the Irons."
Since the pioneering Moroney, O'Farrell, Kearns and Cantwell, West Ham have
continued to attract some fine Irish players, including Noel Dwyer, Liam
Brady, Robbie Keane and current squad members Joey O'Brien and Stephen
Henderson. "There is a long history of Irish players going to West Ham and
passionate West Ham supporters in Ireland," McCarthy confirmed. "Our very
own Sir Trevor Brooking even played two games for Cork City before his
retirement in the 1980s. "In fact, many Irish fans will tell you that West
Ham are their second team. The history that goes with the Club and the fact
that West Ham won the World Cup in 1966 resonates with many of us."
Nowadays, West Ham's presence in Ireland's second-largest county is
personified by the Cork Hammers, who meet in the city to watch the team on
television, while also making regular trips over the Irish Sea to the Boleyn
Ground. "Cork Hammers was founded in 1994 after a notice was placed in the
local Evening Echo newspaper seeking fellow West Ham supporters in the Cork
area to come together and form an official supporters' club," said McCarthy.
"The supporters' club was formed by Denis O'Donovan, John Kelleher and
Brendan Ryan and took up residency in the aptly-named Sir Geoff Hurst room
in the Telecom Social Club on MacCurtain Street in the city. "Membership
grew over the years and several ups and downs were witnessed, either on
trips to the Boleyn, Cardiff, Wembley or indeed on TV here in Cork. "The
Cork Hammers have grown ever since and the visit of the Irons to Leeside, we
hope, will encourage further Cork Hammers to join the club."
The Cork Hammers will be out in force on Sunday evening, when West Ham take
on League of Ireland Premier Division side Cork City in a pre-season match
at Turner's Cross, with kick-off at 6pm. Chairman McCarthy confirmed that
excitement is growing ahead of the Hammers' first appearance on Irish soil
since 2000. "We have been waiting for more than 13 years to see the Hammers
play in Ireland since we played St Patrick's Athletic in Richmond Park,
Dublin in 2000. "Cork City are a decent footballing side and in the middle
of their season so the Hammers' fitness will certainly be tested on Sunday.
"The Cork Hammers will be making a presentation to the Club to mark the
occasion and are looking forward to a great game."
Looking further into the future, McCarthy is hoping for more success under
the guidance of former Limerick manager Sam Allardyce. "We feel the Hammers
are on the brink of bigger things again. There is a good vibe about the
Club.The owners are putting their hands in their pockets, we have a
world-class stadium to move to and even a quality smart-looking kit.All
these things augur well for the Hammers. "We need to strengthen the squad
now with quality in certain areas and build for the future.A quality Academy
will breed success in due course as well, but we need to bring in quality
and maintain momentum now. "A top-eight finish would be good in the 2013/14
season, while a trophy with it would be even better! We need to look above
and beyond this and take the Hammers back to the heights of the Boys of '86
and better again. "Our new kit even has a remarkable resemblance to that
worn by the likes of McAvennie, Brooking and Cottee!Let's look to secure
Champions League status by 2016 and bring Europe's best to the Olympic
Stadium. "Above all, for Cork Hammers it is fundamental that the Club
retains the openness and genuine willingness to welcome supporters like Cork
Hammers to the East End on trips to cheer on the Irons.COYI!"
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Roland is learning the West Ham Way
WHUFC.com
Talented linguist Razvan Rat is already speaking the same language as his
new West Ham United team-mates
07.07.2013
Razvan Rat is already fluent in five languages and he is now eager to learn
the West Ham Way. West Ham United's summer capture from Shakhtar Donetsk
speaks Romanian, English, Spanish, Russian and Portuguese, impressing his
new team-mates with his versatile linguistic skills. Rat has also caught the
eye with the skill and ability that saw him star for Shakhtar in the UEFA
Champions League and captain his home country of Romania. The left-back has
been nicknamed 'Roland' by his Hammers colleagues in tribute to the 1980s TV
character, but the player himself explained that the correct pronunciation
is slightly different. "In my language it is pronounced 'Rats' but you don't
have the letter in English, so you can only say the sound with 'ts'," he
explained. "For me, it doesn't matter because it is just a coincidence [that
my name is the same as an animal]. It will be a good opportunity to laugh
more! "I was trying to improve my language skills. I speak Spanish because
it is quite close to my language, I was speaking Russian because I was
living in Ukraine and also Portuguese because we had about ten Brazilians in
our squad at Shakhtar and the coach was talking a lot in Portuguese as well.
"I just learned the languages by myself - it is nothing special!"
Moving onto less important matters, Rat has quickly settled into the group
after a decade in Ukraine with Shakhtar, where he won more than a dozen
trophies and played 300 times. A strong and tenacious defender with superb
technique and great experience, the 32-year-old is now hoping to make his
mark in the Barclays Premier League. "I am starting to get used to this
team. I need to adapt here very fast so I need to understand the philosophy
of this team. I want to be one of them very, very soon." Rat has shared a
room with another international star, Joe Cole, during West Ham's pre-season
training camp in Cork, while he has also struck up instant relationships
with the likes of Matt Jarvis and Matt Taylor. "The boys are amazing. They
have welcomed me and are speaking with me and helping me. I share a room
with Joe Cole so we've had a lot of talks. "Hopefully I will integrate into
the group very fast and be one of the men of the group. "It is a bit strange
for me but I understand this is my new team and my new family. I will try to
do my best to adapt very fast and to be a good player here. I want to show
my best, that's all."
Rat has got used to vying for the Ukrainian title and playing against
Europe's finest clubs, but now he is relishing a different type of challenge
in English football.
"My personal goal is to play regularly. This is my first goal and, after
that, you never know. Maybe we can have a good season and can get a place in
the UEFA Europa League. You never know. "Hopefully we will play some good
football and everything is possible."
Rat becomes the latest in a succession of Romanian stars to try their luck
in England, many of whom arrived after the country's fourth-place finish at
the 1994 FIFA World Cup. While Dan Petrescu enjoyed great times at Chelsea,
Florin Raducioiu and Ilie Dumitrescu had indifferent spells with West Ham.
The 89-times capped defender is planning to show Hammers supporters his
ability and prove that the Eastern European nation is still producing
world-class players. "This is also my goal - first to prove to myself that I
can play here in the Premier League and after that, to prove the manager
that he was not wrong to bring me here. That is a good goal for me.
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West Ham set to launch bid for Estudiantes striker Duvan Zapata
Last Updated: July 6, 2013 9:19am
SSN
Sky Sports understands West Ham United are set to launch a bid for Duvan
Zapata, one of the most highly-rated young players in South America. The
22-year-old striker is currently with Argentine giants Estudiantes and a
host of clubs have been tracking the £10million-rated marksman. Borussia
Dortmund, Lyon, Besiktas and Benfica have all shown an interest in the
Colombian, who scored 14 goals last season in the Argentine top flight.
However, West Ham - who have strong links in South America - have been
keeping tabs on Zapata for a number of months and they have now decided to
make a move for the powerful 6ft 2in front-man. Zapata is yet to make his
full debut for Colombia, but it is believed he will be part of their squad
before next summer's World Cup finals, which they are on course to qualify
for. Zapata is being tipped to become the next Colombian to break into
European football following on from the likes of Radamel Falcao and James
Rodriguez, who began on the same career path from their homeland, to
Argentina and then Europe.
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ANDY CARROLL SUM IS NO PROBLEM
Daily Star
7th July 2013 By Matt Jarvis
Matt Jarvis reckons Andy Carroll has learned from his Anfield hell – and
won't buckle under the pressure of yet another big-money move Carroll, 24,
choked when forced to wear the record- signing label around his neck at
Liverpool – but Jarvis is convinced the giant 6ft 3ins striker will cope
with the burden at Upton Park. The England front man cost the Hammers
£19million when he signed a permanent six-year-deal last month – after an
initial year on loan in east London.
And Jarvis (right) the club's previous record buy at £7.5m, said: "I had the
pressure of being our most expensive player all last year. "That did have a
hold on me – but that won't be an issue for Andy. Firstly, this is an easy
club to settle into. "Secondly, Andy isn't a new player as such. He has
already had a year on loan here so he knows the place inside out. "And that
is the kind of advantage that can fill you with confidence after a move like
this. "Thirdly, he is an experienced man. He had the same burden at
Liverpool that he has to deal with now. That was a huge learning
experience. "For us, he has already proved to be a massive player – and I've
no doubt he will have a major impact this year."
So much so that Jarvis is tipping the Hammers to have their best season
since 1980 – and use Wigan's FA Cup triumph as their inspiration to end
their 33 years of hurt. He said: "What Wigan did in beating Manchester City
to lift the FA Cup has made clubs like us realise it can be done now – that
trophies are not the preserve of the so-called big boys. "Our first aim
will be to go on a winning spree in the Premier League so that when the cup
competitions come around, we will be able to hit the ground running. "We
have ambitious players here. There isn't one of us who does not want to win
a trophy."
And silverware is not the only accolade that Middlesbrough-born Jarvis, 27,
wants to win. Having made his England debut two years ago against Ghana –
the former Wolves winger is determined to leave the one-cap-wonder club. He
said: "Like any player, as soon as you get one cap, you want to get
another. "I have not given up on getting back in there. Last year, I worked
extremely hard to get myself back in the frame and, hopefully, I can kick on
again. "If there is one thing you are guaranteed from me, it is hard work.
"I'll give myself every chance."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Saturday, July 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th July 2013
WHUFC visit UCC
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have visited University College Cork's state-of-the art
Mardyke Arena
05.07.2013
West Ham United were the welcome guests of University College Cork (UCC) as
their pre-season training continued in the Republic of Ireland. The Hammers
visited UCC's Mardyke Arena, where the players made use of the gyms and
hydrotherapy suite and met a group of local schoolchildren. The Arena, which
is used by Sunday's pre-season opponents Cork City, the Cork Gaelic Athletic
Association (GAA) and Swim Ireland, has more than 25,000 members drawn from
UCC students and the local community. On Thursday, the West Ham squad joined
them, using the treadmills, exercise bikes and cross-trainers before
utilising the gym and hydrotherapy pools. Before the hard work began,
though, the players posed for photographs with dozens of children attending
a summer holiday sports course and captain Kevin Nolan presented the
Hammers' new 2013/14 adidas home shirt to Mardyke Arena general manager
Patsy Ryan. "We used the facilities at UCC for an active recovery session,"
explained fitness coach Eamon Swift. "The exercises the players did in the
gym were all low-impact. "They then went down to the gym, where the players
did a metabolic circuit, which involves each individual doing a circuit
containing short bouts of intense work followed by short rest periods,
speeding up the burning of calories. "The players also did some foam roller
work to stretch and strengthen their muscles before using the hot and cold
pools in the hydrotherapy suite to improve blood circulation and lymphatic
drainage."
Swift said the visit to UCC also served as a welcome change of scenery after
two solid days of work at the Fota Island Resort. This is the first week of
seven weeks of preparation and, rather than building their fitness quickly,
we are going for a gradual progression through our pre-season planning. "We
have had two days on the pitch and this was a day of active recovery ahead
of two more days on the pitch and another pitch session on the morning of
our game at Cork City on Sunday, so this breaks it up."
Mardyke Arena marketing manager Wayne Falvey said UCC were delighted to
welcome the Hammers to use their first-class facilities. "Since 2001, the
Mardyke Arena has been the high-performance sports and fitness facility in
Munster," said Falvey. "We have recently set up a partnership with the Fota
Island Resort to provide high-quality training facilities for teams like
West Ham United. "We are regularly visited by elite athletes from across
Ireland and further afield, but West Ham are the first club to visit since
we signed the partnership."
Aside from the facilities used by the Hammers, the Mardyke Arena offers a
wide range of services for professional and amateur clubs and individuals,
including physiotherapy, performance analysis and a rehabilitation clinic.
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Mark back on familiar ground
WHUFC.com
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy to
be back in the Republic of Ireland
06.07.2013
Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy to be back in the Republic of
Ireland. Not only did the West Ham United No16 score twice in England
Under-21s' 3-0 win over their Irish counterparts in Cork in 2007, but the
midfielder also has close family links with the Emerald Isle. Noble's
grandmother hails from County Cork, while he also has relations living up
the road in the capital city Dublin. Naturally, then, the 26-year-old is
relishing Sunday's Cork Airport Friendly Series meeting with League of
Ireland Premier Division club Cork City at Turner's Cross. "I didn't realise
until we got here that we were playing at Turner's Cross," he revealed. "I
remember playing there for the England Under-21s and getting a couple of
goals [in a 2009 UEFA European U21 Championship qualifier on 17 October
2007]. One of my good friends at the time, Billy Clarke, was playing for the
Irish so it was nice to get one over him. "I think my Nan, my Mum's mum, was
raised here so she was over the moon that I was coming over. I've got quite
a lot of family up in Dublin, so hopefully they will be coming to the game
on Sunday."
With his Irish ancestry, Noble has been linked with a call-up to the
Republic of Ireland senior squad on a number of occasions, but the Hammers
star insists he remains fully committed to the country of his birth. "You
never know! but I've been asked before about that but I am English, I played
for the Under-21s and I have still got hopes of playing for the full
national team. As I say, I have got a lot of Irish connections and great
family over here."
While an Ireland debut remains out of the question, Noble has certainly
relished his week at the outstanding Fota Island Resort in County Cork. "We
started a week earlier than most other clubs. We did the same last season
and we got off to a good start. It hasn't been full head-on, but we've
working hard. It's been really good and the lads have enjoyed it. "We've not
been here for pre-season training before so we've enjoyed the hotel, the
golf course and the training facilities."
The Canning Town-born star believes the hard work and preparation West Ham
are putting into their week in Ireland will pay-off come the start of the
Barclays Premier League season in August. With matches against four teams
who were either playing in the Championship or finished in the bottom half
last season to open 2013/14, Noble said the Hammers can start fast as they
did last term. "We had a really good season after winning promotion from the
Championship and coming tenth in the Premier League was a fantastic
achievement. The boys worked hard and that's what we need to do again this
year - start well. We have got some good fixtures again and hopefully we can
get some points on the board early. "I'm enjoying my football. The Gaffer
just tells me to go out there and play and to get us playing and it's
enjoyable. We've got a great bunch of lads and every day I walk onto the
training ground, it's a good time to be there."
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Noble kick starts Olympic journey
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble has made history by becoming the first Hammers player to kick a
ball in the Olympic Stadium
05.07.2013
Mark Noble has made Hammers history by becoming the first West Ham United
player to kick a football in the Olympic Stadium as part of a new video set
in the iconic landmark that will become the east London Club's home in 2016.
In the video, Noble documents his two mile journey from his home town of
Canning Town to the world-famous Stadium in Stratford and recalls his
childhood memories of supporting the Club. The Academy graduate and former
Hammer of the Year also discusses both the fantastic transport network and
surrounding entertainment facilities on offer near the Queen Elizabeth Park
that Hammers fans will be able to enjoy when watching their team play. Once
inside the Stadium - which will undergo a transformation to a 54,000
all-seater UEFA Category 4 venue, the highest category of football stadium
in the world - Noble steps up to take the first-ever penalty in the Hammers'
stunning new home. "It's a privilege to be the first West Ham player to kick
a football inside the Olympic Stadium and as a lifelong West Ham fan it was
great fun to film the video," said Noble. "Hopefully I will be one of those
players walking out of the tunnel soaking in the atmosphere, with 54,000
West Ham flags and banners waving. The noise is going to be amazing and it's
going to be a fantastic stadium to play in. 2016 just can't come quick
enough."
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Rebel Army relishing Hammers visit
WHUFC.com
Cork City goalkeeping coach Anthony Fennelly is looking forward to Sunday's
pre-season visit of West Ham United
05.07.2013
Cork City cannot wait for the Cork Airport Friendly Series visit of visit of
West Ham United on Sunday. The Rebel Army may have endured some difficult
moments in the League of Ireland Premier Division in recent weeks, losing
3-0 at UCD in their last league match and by the same scoreline at Drogheda
United in the League Cup quarter-finals. Cork's goalkeeping coach Anthony
Fennelly is hoping Sunday's meeting with the Hammers will provide the
Leesiders with a much-needed boost ahead of the second half of their season.
"We're looking forward to the game and it'll be a good occasion for both
teams and a good workout for yourselves," Fennelly, who attended West Ham's
training session at Fota Island Resort on Friday to watch Martyn Margetson
work with Jussi Jaaskelainen and Adrian, told West Ham TV. Cork will prepare
for Sunday's match by hosting League of Ireland champions Sligo Rovers at
Turner's Cross on Friday evening. With Cork sitting seventh in the 12-team
table, Fennelly is hoping for a victory. "We have a big game ourselves on
Friday night so Sunday's game will provide a good opportunity for the boys
who don't get a run out, as well as our regular starters. We should get a
good crowd in. "We finished sixth last season but at the minute we probably
need a win. We have a massive game on Friday night against Sligo Rovers and
we're hoping to get three points and start pushing up the table. By the end
of the season, we hope to push for a European spot. "To be honest about it,
we should probably be doing better than we are with the players that we
have, but we're hopeful Friday night will be the start of that. We signed a
new striker from Shamrock Rovers the other day, Ciaran Kilduff, so we're
hoping that he'll step up to the mark and score a few goals."
While Kilduff could play on Sunday, Fennelly said Cork also possess a number
of other talented players. The club produced the likes of Republic of
Ireland international strikers Kevin Doyle and Shane Long in the past and
the coach says the production line has to continue to run if they are to
thrive financially.
"Obviously we wouldn't be at the Premier League standard quite yet, but
there are some very good players here. We've got young lads like Gearoid
Morrissey and our goalkeeper Mark McNulty is very good and experienced.
We've got other lads like Colin Healy, who played for Sunderland. Hopefully,
we'll give you a good run out. "There have been a lot of lads who have gone
over [to England] like Kevin Doyle and Shane Long, who have done quite well
in the Premier League. It's a good stepping-stone if you want to go across
the water. "Cork is still a massive club and one of the biggest in the
country, so it's a good place to start."
Fennelly said everyone associated with Cork City is looking forward to
Sunday's game, with the club hoping for a bumper gate comprised of
supporters of both sides. "We played a few games against English clubs last
year but West Ham are obviously a massive club. It's a big occasion for us
and I think the lads will really enjoy testing themselves against Premier
League opposition to see where they are at and where they need to get to.
"Especially for the younger boys, it's a benchmark to show where they can
get to in their careers. It's a good occasion for them. "It's massive for
us. The way things are financially in Ireland at the moment, it's hugely
important for us to get a good turnout and I think we will. There should be
a good couple of thousand there as Cork people generally support their sport
pretty well and hopefully everyone will enjoy it."
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'We're back in the swing of it'
WHUFC.com
Fans' favourite Joe Cole is looking forward to his first full season back
with West Ham United
05.07.2013
Joe Cole is relishing being back in pre-season training and is looking
forward to his first full season back with West Ham United. Cole, who
returned to the Hammers in January, is currently working hard alongside his
team-mates in Cork as the team prepare for the new Barclays Premier League
campaign. Speaking after a hard session at the University College Cork
(UCC), where the players were able to make full use of the state-of-the-art
facilities, Cole said he was feeling good. "We're back in the swing of it
all now, having returned to pre-season on Monday and flying out here to Cork
to work on our fitness," said the No26, who has happily met fans of all ages
in Ireland. "We are looking to be strong and continue where we left off last
season. It is a steady but upward curve, focusing on our fitness and looking
to go one better than last season."
Cole said training was going well in Cork, with the players doing a mixture
of ball and gym work plus cycling and pool sessions. Sunday will then see
the Hammers take on League of Ireland Premier Division Cork City at Turner's
Cross - their first game since returning to pre-season earlier this week. "I
am enjoying it. We are being put through our paces but it has all been good
and Cork is lovely. It is the first time playing in Cork for me, but we're
really looking forward to the match, which is our first pre-season game. "It
will be good to get out there and have some game time under our belts and
the aim for all of us will be to get through the match all ok and we're
looking forward to seeing fans and the people of Cork. "After what will be a
full week's training, it will be a good test for us against this Cork side
early on, to start everything going again."
Cole said while specific targets are being put into place for the team this
year, his main aim is to be fit and healthy and play his part in taking West
Ham to another level. "It has been great for me to be back at West Ham and I
am delighted to be here, as I said when I returned. First and foremost, I
want to do my best so make sure I stay fit and in shape, playing for the
team and helping the Club to progress. "It has all gone well and I am just
excited to be back now. Hopefully I can enjoy a strong pre-season and be
raring to go for the start which is only just over six weeks away. "Having a
week and a trip like this has enabled us to get the juices flowing again,
the banter has started in earnest around the place and it is an enjoyable
set-up to be part of. We have been doing a mix of things this week, so that
has been good, it helps to get everything and everyone moving in the right
direction."
Cole is often asked about regaining a place in the England national team and
the 56-times capped midfielder says that playing well for the Hammers could
help him to reach that target. "I would like to think with the experience I
have that I can do a job for England and be part of the set-up still. But
first things first, playing for West Ham and doing my best for the team and
keeping fit is what I must do and then, yes you never know where that leads
with regards international football again."
Cole was up again early on Friday morning as he and the rest of the squad
took part in cycling and pool sessions before they will go on again to
further work on the pitch. The 31-year-old is looking to help West Ham to
get off to a good start when they host Cardiff City at the Boleyn Ground in
their opening league fixture on 17 August. "Pre-season has started, we have
a new kit, everything is fresh and we're looking forward to getting in front
of our fans again this season. I want to do my bit in helping the club
progress and have an even better season than last year."
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Viva Zapata!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
There are reports this morning that West Ham have opened talks with
Argentinian club, Estudiantes over a deal for the services of their striker
Duvan Zapata. The 22-year-old Colombian international is officially valued
at around £8m but West Ham are allegedly hoping to strike deal for a reduced
fee of c.£6.5m. The eal would then ultimately be dependant upon the player
being issued a work permit to play in England.
Could it be that West Ham have abandoned their attempts to sign Wilfred Bony
or Demba Ba and struck out in an entirely different direction? If so, Zapata
looks a good prospect, having scored 14 goals in 23 appearances in the
Argentinian league and at 6 foot 2 inches he possesses the physical
attributes to cover for Andy Carroll in a 4-3-3 (or 4-5-1 as some maintain!)
formation, as well as the ability to also play alongside him in a 4-4-2.
Viva Zapata? Lets wait and see?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham close to signing Duvan Zapata to be Andy Carroll's new strike
partner
5 Jul 2013 22:31
The Mirror
West Ham have agreed a £6.7million fee to sign hot Colombian prospect Duvan
Zapata. The Hammers have met the $10m valuation of the striker's Argentinian
club, Estudiantes, but now the 22-year-old needs to get a work permit. The
powerful 6ft 2in forward starred for Colombia U-20s as they won the Toulon
Tournament in 2011 and has scored 14 goals in 23 games this season for
Estudiantes. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce, strengthening a squad that
finished 10 last season on their return to the top flight, sanctioned the
bid after receiving rave reviews from scouts. Big Sam hopes to unleash
Zapata with new signing Andy Carroll, once the £15m England striker is fit
after a heel injury. West Ham are offering Zapata a four-year contract, with
a two-year option, if they get a work permit later this month. It would be a
coup for the Londoners given Lyon of France, Portuguese pair Benfica and
Porto and Italy's Udinese are all keen. Zapata hopes to follow in the
footsteps of compatriot Radamel Falcao, who moved from Argentina to Europe
and became a goal-scoring superstar.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have visited University College Cork's state-of-the art
Mardyke Arena
05.07.2013
West Ham United were the welcome guests of University College Cork (UCC) as
their pre-season training continued in the Republic of Ireland. The Hammers
visited UCC's Mardyke Arena, where the players made use of the gyms and
hydrotherapy suite and met a group of local schoolchildren. The Arena, which
is used by Sunday's pre-season opponents Cork City, the Cork Gaelic Athletic
Association (GAA) and Swim Ireland, has more than 25,000 members drawn from
UCC students and the local community. On Thursday, the West Ham squad joined
them, using the treadmills, exercise bikes and cross-trainers before
utilising the gym and hydrotherapy pools. Before the hard work began,
though, the players posed for photographs with dozens of children attending
a summer holiday sports course and captain Kevin Nolan presented the
Hammers' new 2013/14 adidas home shirt to Mardyke Arena general manager
Patsy Ryan. "We used the facilities at UCC for an active recovery session,"
explained fitness coach Eamon Swift. "The exercises the players did in the
gym were all low-impact. "They then went down to the gym, where the players
did a metabolic circuit, which involves each individual doing a circuit
containing short bouts of intense work followed by short rest periods,
speeding up the burning of calories. "The players also did some foam roller
work to stretch and strengthen their muscles before using the hot and cold
pools in the hydrotherapy suite to improve blood circulation and lymphatic
drainage."
Swift said the visit to UCC also served as a welcome change of scenery after
two solid days of work at the Fota Island Resort. This is the first week of
seven weeks of preparation and, rather than building their fitness quickly,
we are going for a gradual progression through our pre-season planning. "We
have had two days on the pitch and this was a day of active recovery ahead
of two more days on the pitch and another pitch session on the morning of
our game at Cork City on Sunday, so this breaks it up."
Mardyke Arena marketing manager Wayne Falvey said UCC were delighted to
welcome the Hammers to use their first-class facilities. "Since 2001, the
Mardyke Arena has been the high-performance sports and fitness facility in
Munster," said Falvey. "We have recently set up a partnership with the Fota
Island Resort to provide high-quality training facilities for teams like
West Ham United. "We are regularly visited by elite athletes from across
Ireland and further afield, but West Ham are the first club to visit since
we signed the partnership."
Aside from the facilities used by the Hammers, the Mardyke Arena offers a
wide range of services for professional and amateur clubs and individuals,
including physiotherapy, performance analysis and a rehabilitation clinic.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark back on familiar ground
WHUFC.com
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy to
be back in the Republic of Ireland
06.07.2013
Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy to be back in the Republic of
Ireland. Not only did the West Ham United No16 score twice in England
Under-21s' 3-0 win over their Irish counterparts in Cork in 2007, but the
midfielder also has close family links with the Emerald Isle. Noble's
grandmother hails from County Cork, while he also has relations living up
the road in the capital city Dublin. Naturally, then, the 26-year-old is
relishing Sunday's Cork Airport Friendly Series meeting with League of
Ireland Premier Division club Cork City at Turner's Cross. "I didn't realise
until we got here that we were playing at Turner's Cross," he revealed. "I
remember playing there for the England Under-21s and getting a couple of
goals [in a 2009 UEFA European U21 Championship qualifier on 17 October
2007]. One of my good friends at the time, Billy Clarke, was playing for the
Irish so it was nice to get one over him. "I think my Nan, my Mum's mum, was
raised here so she was over the moon that I was coming over. I've got quite
a lot of family up in Dublin, so hopefully they will be coming to the game
on Sunday."
With his Irish ancestry, Noble has been linked with a call-up to the
Republic of Ireland senior squad on a number of occasions, but the Hammers
star insists he remains fully committed to the country of his birth. "You
never know! but I've been asked before about that but I am English, I played
for the Under-21s and I have still got hopes of playing for the full
national team. As I say, I have got a lot of Irish connections and great
family over here."
While an Ireland debut remains out of the question, Noble has certainly
relished his week at the outstanding Fota Island Resort in County Cork. "We
started a week earlier than most other clubs. We did the same last season
and we got off to a good start. It hasn't been full head-on, but we've
working hard. It's been really good and the lads have enjoyed it. "We've not
been here for pre-season training before so we've enjoyed the hotel, the
golf course and the training facilities."
The Canning Town-born star believes the hard work and preparation West Ham
are putting into their week in Ireland will pay-off come the start of the
Barclays Premier League season in August. With matches against four teams
who were either playing in the Championship or finished in the bottom half
last season to open 2013/14, Noble said the Hammers can start fast as they
did last term. "We had a really good season after winning promotion from the
Championship and coming tenth in the Premier League was a fantastic
achievement. The boys worked hard and that's what we need to do again this
year - start well. We have got some good fixtures again and hopefully we can
get some points on the board early. "I'm enjoying my football. The Gaffer
just tells me to go out there and play and to get us playing and it's
enjoyable. We've got a great bunch of lads and every day I walk onto the
training ground, it's a good time to be there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble kick starts Olympic journey
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble has made history by becoming the first Hammers player to kick a
ball in the Olympic Stadium
05.07.2013
Mark Noble has made Hammers history by becoming the first West Ham United
player to kick a football in the Olympic Stadium as part of a new video set
in the iconic landmark that will become the east London Club's home in 2016.
In the video, Noble documents his two mile journey from his home town of
Canning Town to the world-famous Stadium in Stratford and recalls his
childhood memories of supporting the Club. The Academy graduate and former
Hammer of the Year also discusses both the fantastic transport network and
surrounding entertainment facilities on offer near the Queen Elizabeth Park
that Hammers fans will be able to enjoy when watching their team play. Once
inside the Stadium - which will undergo a transformation to a 54,000
all-seater UEFA Category 4 venue, the highest category of football stadium
in the world - Noble steps up to take the first-ever penalty in the Hammers'
stunning new home. "It's a privilege to be the first West Ham player to kick
a football inside the Olympic Stadium and as a lifelong West Ham fan it was
great fun to film the video," said Noble. "Hopefully I will be one of those
players walking out of the tunnel soaking in the atmosphere, with 54,000
West Ham flags and banners waving. The noise is going to be amazing and it's
going to be a fantastic stadium to play in. 2016 just can't come quick
enough."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rebel Army relishing Hammers visit
WHUFC.com
Cork City goalkeeping coach Anthony Fennelly is looking forward to Sunday's
pre-season visit of West Ham United
05.07.2013
Cork City cannot wait for the Cork Airport Friendly Series visit of visit of
West Ham United on Sunday. The Rebel Army may have endured some difficult
moments in the League of Ireland Premier Division in recent weeks, losing
3-0 at UCD in their last league match and by the same scoreline at Drogheda
United in the League Cup quarter-finals. Cork's goalkeeping coach Anthony
Fennelly is hoping Sunday's meeting with the Hammers will provide the
Leesiders with a much-needed boost ahead of the second half of their season.
"We're looking forward to the game and it'll be a good occasion for both
teams and a good workout for yourselves," Fennelly, who attended West Ham's
training session at Fota Island Resort on Friday to watch Martyn Margetson
work with Jussi Jaaskelainen and Adrian, told West Ham TV. Cork will prepare
for Sunday's match by hosting League of Ireland champions Sligo Rovers at
Turner's Cross on Friday evening. With Cork sitting seventh in the 12-team
table, Fennelly is hoping for a victory. "We have a big game ourselves on
Friday night so Sunday's game will provide a good opportunity for the boys
who don't get a run out, as well as our regular starters. We should get a
good crowd in. "We finished sixth last season but at the minute we probably
need a win. We have a massive game on Friday night against Sligo Rovers and
we're hoping to get three points and start pushing up the table. By the end
of the season, we hope to push for a European spot. "To be honest about it,
we should probably be doing better than we are with the players that we
have, but we're hopeful Friday night will be the start of that. We signed a
new striker from Shamrock Rovers the other day, Ciaran Kilduff, so we're
hoping that he'll step up to the mark and score a few goals."
While Kilduff could play on Sunday, Fennelly said Cork also possess a number
of other talented players. The club produced the likes of Republic of
Ireland international strikers Kevin Doyle and Shane Long in the past and
the coach says the production line has to continue to run if they are to
thrive financially.
"Obviously we wouldn't be at the Premier League standard quite yet, but
there are some very good players here. We've got young lads like Gearoid
Morrissey and our goalkeeper Mark McNulty is very good and experienced.
We've got other lads like Colin Healy, who played for Sunderland. Hopefully,
we'll give you a good run out. "There have been a lot of lads who have gone
over [to England] like Kevin Doyle and Shane Long, who have done quite well
in the Premier League. It's a good stepping-stone if you want to go across
the water. "Cork is still a massive club and one of the biggest in the
country, so it's a good place to start."
Fennelly said everyone associated with Cork City is looking forward to
Sunday's game, with the club hoping for a bumper gate comprised of
supporters of both sides. "We played a few games against English clubs last
year but West Ham are obviously a massive club. It's a big occasion for us
and I think the lads will really enjoy testing themselves against Premier
League opposition to see where they are at and where they need to get to.
"Especially for the younger boys, it's a benchmark to show where they can
get to in their careers. It's a good occasion for them. "It's massive for
us. The way things are financially in Ireland at the moment, it's hugely
important for us to get a good turnout and I think we will. There should be
a good couple of thousand there as Cork people generally support their sport
pretty well and hopefully everyone will enjoy it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'We're back in the swing of it'
WHUFC.com
Fans' favourite Joe Cole is looking forward to his first full season back
with West Ham United
05.07.2013
Joe Cole is relishing being back in pre-season training and is looking
forward to his first full season back with West Ham United. Cole, who
returned to the Hammers in January, is currently working hard alongside his
team-mates in Cork as the team prepare for the new Barclays Premier League
campaign. Speaking after a hard session at the University College Cork
(UCC), where the players were able to make full use of the state-of-the-art
facilities, Cole said he was feeling good. "We're back in the swing of it
all now, having returned to pre-season on Monday and flying out here to Cork
to work on our fitness," said the No26, who has happily met fans of all ages
in Ireland. "We are looking to be strong and continue where we left off last
season. It is a steady but upward curve, focusing on our fitness and looking
to go one better than last season."
Cole said training was going well in Cork, with the players doing a mixture
of ball and gym work plus cycling and pool sessions. Sunday will then see
the Hammers take on League of Ireland Premier Division Cork City at Turner's
Cross - their first game since returning to pre-season earlier this week. "I
am enjoying it. We are being put through our paces but it has all been good
and Cork is lovely. It is the first time playing in Cork for me, but we're
really looking forward to the match, which is our first pre-season game. "It
will be good to get out there and have some game time under our belts and
the aim for all of us will be to get through the match all ok and we're
looking forward to seeing fans and the people of Cork. "After what will be a
full week's training, it will be a good test for us against this Cork side
early on, to start everything going again."
Cole said while specific targets are being put into place for the team this
year, his main aim is to be fit and healthy and play his part in taking West
Ham to another level. "It has been great for me to be back at West Ham and I
am delighted to be here, as I said when I returned. First and foremost, I
want to do my best so make sure I stay fit and in shape, playing for the
team and helping the Club to progress. "It has all gone well and I am just
excited to be back now. Hopefully I can enjoy a strong pre-season and be
raring to go for the start which is only just over six weeks away. "Having a
week and a trip like this has enabled us to get the juices flowing again,
the banter has started in earnest around the place and it is an enjoyable
set-up to be part of. We have been doing a mix of things this week, so that
has been good, it helps to get everything and everyone moving in the right
direction."
Cole is often asked about regaining a place in the England national team and
the 56-times capped midfielder says that playing well for the Hammers could
help him to reach that target. "I would like to think with the experience I
have that I can do a job for England and be part of the set-up still. But
first things first, playing for West Ham and doing my best for the team and
keeping fit is what I must do and then, yes you never know where that leads
with regards international football again."
Cole was up again early on Friday morning as he and the rest of the squad
took part in cycling and pool sessions before they will go on again to
further work on the pitch. The 31-year-old is looking to help West Ham to
get off to a good start when they host Cardiff City at the Boleyn Ground in
their opening league fixture on 17 August. "Pre-season has started, we have
a new kit, everything is fresh and we're looking forward to getting in front
of our fans again this season. I want to do my bit in helping the club
progress and have an even better season than last year."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Viva Zapata!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
There are reports this morning that West Ham have opened talks with
Argentinian club, Estudiantes over a deal for the services of their striker
Duvan Zapata. The 22-year-old Colombian international is officially valued
at around £8m but West Ham are allegedly hoping to strike deal for a reduced
fee of c.£6.5m. The eal would then ultimately be dependant upon the player
being issued a work permit to play in England.
Could it be that West Ham have abandoned their attempts to sign Wilfred Bony
or Demba Ba and struck out in an entirely different direction? If so, Zapata
looks a good prospect, having scored 14 goals in 23 appearances in the
Argentinian league and at 6 foot 2 inches he possesses the physical
attributes to cover for Andy Carroll in a 4-3-3 (or 4-5-1 as some maintain!)
formation, as well as the ability to also play alongside him in a 4-4-2.
Viva Zapata? Lets wait and see?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham close to signing Duvan Zapata to be Andy Carroll's new strike
partner
5 Jul 2013 22:31
The Mirror
West Ham have agreed a £6.7million fee to sign hot Colombian prospect Duvan
Zapata. The Hammers have met the $10m valuation of the striker's Argentinian
club, Estudiantes, but now the 22-year-old needs to get a work permit. The
powerful 6ft 2in forward starred for Colombia U-20s as they won the Toulon
Tournament in 2011 and has scored 14 goals in 23 games this season for
Estudiantes. Hammers manager Sam Allardyce, strengthening a squad that
finished 10 last season on their return to the top flight, sanctioned the
bid after receiving rave reviews from scouts. Big Sam hopes to unleash
Zapata with new signing Andy Carroll, once the £15m England striker is fit
after a heel injury. West Ham are offering Zapata a four-year contract, with
a two-year option, if they get a work permit later this month. It would be a
coup for the Londoners given Lyon of France, Portuguese pair Benfica and
Porto and Italy's Udinese are all keen. Zapata hopes to follow in the
footsteps of compatriot Radamel Falcao, who moved from Argentina to Europe
and became a goal-scoring superstar.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, July 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th July 2013
Morrison keen to build on 'good year'
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison is back at West Ham United and eager to capitalise on a fine
loan spell at Birmingham City
04.07.2013
Ravel Morrison is back at West Ham United and eager to capitalise on a fine
season on loan at Birmingham City. The talented young midfielder, who joined
West Ham from Manchester United in January 2012, enjoyed a breakout 2012/13
season with the Blues in the npower Championship, making 30 appearances and
scoring his first three senior goals. Morrison's form saw Lee Clark's side
recover from a poor start to the campaign to finish in a comfortable 12th
place, with the 20-year-old producing a series of increasingly mature
displays - none more so than when he inspired Birmingham to recover from 3-0
down to draw at Millwall. He has caught the eye again during West Ham's
pre-season training camp in the Republic of Ireland, showing talent,
commitment and a mature attitude to his work. "Pre-season has been good and
I've enjoyed the whole trip so far," he confirmed. "I've just enjoyed the
work and the whole group has done well."
Looking back at last season, a smile appears on Morrison's face when his
loan spell at Birmingham is mentioned. Manager Clark regularly praised the
youngster, not just for his ability but also for his willingness to learn
off the pitch. That approach resulted in Morrison netting his first league
goal with a spectacular volley in a home defeat by Hull City in November
2012 and further strikes at Crystal Palace and at home to Blackburn Rovers.
"It was really good. I think I needed the year out and I think it went well,
because I enjoyed my year at Birmingham a lot," he confirmed. "I missed West
Ham a lot but it was still good in the Championship. "It was different to
the Premier League, obviously, but it was a good challenge. Lee Clark is a
great manager and he helped me through a lot. He talked me through my rights
and wrongs and he helped me through the season. "I probably enjoyed the game
against Millwall the most, when we came back from 3-0 down to draw 3-3. That
was probably the best game because the whole team worked hard. I also scored
a couple of good goals."
With Morrison being given the chance to impress in Cork, the player himself
is hoping to catch the eye and be given a chance to prove himself in claret
and blue this term. "Hopefully I can get an opportunity. I've just got to
carry on working hard in pre-season and show the manager what I can do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United meet the animals
WHUFC.com
West Ham United talked to the animals when they paid a visit to Fota
Wildlife Park in Cork
04.07.2013
West Ham United talked to the animals when they paid a visit to Fota
Wildlife Park in County Cork. The Hammers squad made the short trip from the
team hotel at Fota Island Resort to the east Cork attraction. Celebrating
its 30th anniversary this year, Fota Wildlife Park became the Republic of
Ireland's first such facility when it opened in 1983. Since then, it has
become one of the country's most-popular attractions, with hundreds of
thousands of people visiting every year. The Park's keepers showed the
players the giraffes, zebra and ostriches before the squad headed to the
cheetah enclosure to watch the big cats chase and catch their meat. Many of
the players marvelled at the speed shown by the cheetahs, suggesting they
would give winger Matt Jarvis a run for his money, while Mark Noble
suggested the giraffes would give team-mates Andy Carroll and James Collins
a hard time in an aerial duel! The West Ham squad also met representatives
from the Cork Association for Autism - a charity which supports adults
across County Cork with autistic spectrum disorder and works in partnership
with Sunday's pre-season match opponents Cork City.
James Tomkins and Jack Collison were among those to meet the charity's
representatives, while they were impressed by the range of animals on show
at Fota Wildlife Park, praising the wide open spaces they have to run around
in. The Academy graduates have also been enjoying their first week in
pre-season training. "Pre-season has started off well over in Ireland and
we've also come out to socialise with the public and the wildlife! It's nice
to take a little bit of time off because we have started off working quite
hard," Tomkins, who named the cheetah as his favourite animal, told West Ham
TV. "It's been brilliant here in Ireland. We're all really impressed with
the food at the hotel and the staff are friendly and cannot do enough for
us. Everyone we have met at the wildlife park has also been really nice."
For Collison, he has had the added bonus of training with his team-mates
after a number of pre-seasons when he has followed individual programmes due
to his previous knee problems. "Obviously it's nice to be in and around the
boys and it's much better to be working all together rather than doing my
own individual stuff.," said the No10. "We've worked quite hard over the
first couple of days and everyone is feeling it a little bit, so it's nice
to have a little bit of down time and to chill out. "We have our first game
on Sunday at Cork City and that's what it's all about - the gym work and the
early-morning bike rides and all that. At the end of the day it's all about
playing games and getting games under our belts and getting used to smashing
the ball about again."
Fota Wildlife Park head of marketing Stephen Ryan said everyone was
delighted to have West Ham visit the attraction. "The players got to see the
giraffes up close because we have a very open park here at Fota," he
confirmed. "We are lucky to be right next door to the Fota Island Resort
where the lads are training so they also got to see the cheetahs training
here as well. We do a cheetah run every day where they travel at up to 80mph
to catch their food and it's very good for them. "This is actually Cork's
most-popular attraction so the guys are very lucky that they got a bit of
time to visit. We also had a great reaction from our visitors, who got
photographs and autographs with Joe Cole, Kevin Nolan and Joey O'Brien.
"We're pleased to have West Ham visit us, who we hope will be the first of
many football clubs to drop in and see us this season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold makes O'Neil amends
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has wished the departing Gary O'Neil well for the future - just
24 hours after co-owner David Sullivan's teenage son Jack was accused of
being disrespectful to the midfielder. Gold was asked to confirm earlier
today via social media website Twitter whether O'Neil had, as suggested by
Jack Sullivan 24 hours earlier, left the club. "Gary O'Neil has not signed a
new deal and we wish him well in his new endeavours," confirmed Gold, who
also revealed he was currently in France with Sullivan (Snr) on transfer
business.
That message came the day after David Sullivan's 13-year-old son Jack had
been heavily criticised by a number of West Ham supporters for his reaction
to O'Neil's departure. Yesterday, the Twitter account belonging to Sullivan
Jnr - who currently enjoys in excess of 26,000 followers - posted a message
confirming that O'Neil had left the club, despite it being previously
thought that he had agreed a new deal with West Ham. However it was four
short words at the end of the message that particularly annoyed the fans.
"Gary O'Neil has decided not to stay with us, despite agreeing a deal. Good
luck to him," said Sullivan's Tweet, before adding: "We'll now get better."
"Obviously I would now like to see us bring in a player better than Gary
O'Neil, I just don't think this tweet was the place to express that view,"
mused Hemel Iron on the KUMB Forums.
"Deal with his departure by being respectful and grateful to O'Neil's time
here, then deal with the acquisition of replacement players in a separate
tweet if and when they happen."
Those thoughts were echoes by fellow member BonzosBoots. "Regardless of his
[Jack Sullivan's] opinion of O'Neil or Chamakh, it's the one remaining
unprofessional thing at the club," he said.
"I guess with Sullivan now being majority shareholder he and his family can
do what they want. However, it doesn't do the image of the club any good. We
look cheap."
Though not all agree. "He's a kid who wished Gary O'Neil good luck and then,
in a new sentence, said that we would get better. Isn't that the idea?" said
Trap1.
"I don't care if he's the chairman's son, if people can't accept he will
make the odd comment that could have been worded better then they probably
need to get out a bit more."
However other feel that a certain degree of skullduggery is at work, with
accusations that Jack Sullivan's Twitter account is being used by agents
other than the teenager.
For evidence of foul play, critics point to a marked difference between
messages posted by the teenager to his friends and in those regarding West
Ham, in which, it is claimed, the grammar employed shows a remarkable
improvement.
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The kids are alright
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: David Hautzig
Later this month my daughter is scheduled to have surgery. It's called
Turbenate Reduction surgery to relieve a constant feeling of nasal
congestion.
Poor kid can't breathe half the time and the medications available can only
do so much. When my wife and I started researching which Ear, Nose and
Throat surgeon to go see, reputation and experience obviously played an
important role.
On a lesser scale, but from the perspective of physical comfort close to
equally important, the air conditioning for the second story of our house
has been struggling with the seemingly hotter summers we have been
experiencing. Tough to keep those rooms cool when it's 95 degrees outside
and the air in the attic is probably close to 130 degrees.
There are a lot of heating and cooling "experts" in the phone book. But we
have hired someone that has been on the job for over 20 years and has far
more experience with our particular cooling system to make some changes.
In both cases, we obviously opted for experience.
I thought about that a bit earlier this week when it was announced that Rob
Hall was leaving the club to chase more first team football at Bolton
Wanderers. The majority of the reaction on Twitter was negative today to say
the least. I remember one Tweeter claiming to be near tears.
People were mourning the impending death of the Academy system, begging Sam
Allardyce to give the kids a chance to show what they can do. The latter has
been a theme on blogs and Twitter for quite a while now, actually. Rob Hall
just seemed to reignite the debate.
You don't need to be a brain surgeon, or even an Ear Nose and Throat
surgeon, to understand that choosing players for a professional football
team is a different animal than either of my choices above. But there are
similarities in principal.
There is a lot more at stake now because of the gargantuan sums of money in
football. And the landscape of the game has changed so much in just the past
few years. The choices available to a manager have increased almost
exponentially. It's like comparing the corner market of our youth to the
giant superstores we have now.
Lets create a hypothetical situation and work through some hypothetical
choices, all of which are completely plausible in today's game;
You are the manager, technical director, or director of football for KUMB
United. You need a new left back. The one you had last year has left on a
Bosman and pre-season is right around the corner. After consulting your
scouts, youth coach, and chairman you narrow it down to three choices.
1) You have a 19-year-old that has done well for the reserves and has played
well at times in training. Like any kid, they make the occasional mistake.
Going for a video highlight type of run instead of playing it safe. Or
something like that. He hasn't played that many games for the first team,
just a few substitute appearances in a cup match. He has promise for sure,
but not much experience.
2) There is a left back that plays for a team in the Norwegian league and
has 40 caps for his national side. He's 27 years old, has a very good record
in terms of injury, and is known as a particularly smart player. Very safe
on the ball, rarely gets rattled in tough spots. With one year left on his
contract, his club values him at £2.5million. Wages not an issue because the
player wants a move to England.
3) The starting left back for the Colombian National Team plays for
Argentinos Juniors in Buenos Aires. He came through their youth system,
which also happened to produce a player named Diego Maradona many years ago.
He is a physically dominating player with speed that is uncommon to say the
least for someone his size.
That physical presence has also seen him work well as an attacker on corner
kicks, hitting the back of the net five times this past season in Argentina.
Juniors are fighting relegation and need money, as well as wages off their
books if they go down. So a loan for one year with an option to buy is
available.
Based on those three choices, going into a new Premier League season, how
would you rank these three options? Id likely go for the Colombian, with the
Viking a close second. The youth team choice would be my third option here,
and I bet many of you are thrilled I have nothing to do with running our
club.
At this point I wanted to insert some research about the average age of
players in the Premier League over the past ten years or so. I looked, too.
Yet much to my dismay I couldn't find that info via Google, Bing, Yahoo, or
tea leaves. I thought it might show that the average player age has risen in
recent years, furthering my notion that first team opportunities for young
players are dwindling due in larger part to increased options than
prejudice. So if anybody finds these facts, please share them.
I caught the West Ham bug just as Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael
Carrick, and Joe Cole were coming of age and taking their places at Upton
Park. The first home game I ever attended in 1997 was against Chelsea.
Finished 1-1. And Joe Cole signed his first professional contract at
halftime.
Or maybe he was just introduced to the crowd? We were getting a few beers so
we only heard it over the loudspeaker. In any event, I understand the
importance of and the attachment to our youth system through the years. Not
as well as many of you I'm sure, but I do get it.
When I was single, living in my little apartment in Manhattan, I was willing
to take risks. My friend and I once had an idea to offer electronic,
web-based wedding albums that friends and family could access. We spent a
lot of money on advertising in big wedding planning magazines and on a
website. We were literally years ahead of what is now standard operating
procedure in quality wedding photography.
We failed miserably. The timing was all wrong.
Now, what little money I have after paying bills goes into boring,
diversified low-risk investments. There is too much at stake. If something
truly stunning came along, and after careful consideration and consultation
with people I trust saw it to be worth a risk, I'd take the plunge with a
small sliver of my pie. Maybe a company called Ravel Inc.?
So I can't criticise Sam and our owners for feeling the same way.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers to face Portuguese test
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's prestigious end-of-pre-season friendly this summer will be held
against Portuguese side Pacos de Ferreira. In recent seasons, West Ham have
become accustomed to playing host to some of Europe's biggest teams at the
end of pre-season. Clubs such as Athletico Bilbao (2000), Olympiakos (2006),
Roma (2007) and Real Zaragoza (2011) have all visited the Boleyn Ground for
the traditional curtain-raiser. Therefore the announcement of Pacos de
Ferreira being United's final opponent of the 2013 pre-season campaign will
come as something of a surprise to Hammers fans, many of whom will no doubt
be sliently asking themselves "who?"
Officially formed in 1950 (although predecessor Sport Club Pacense has
already been running for 20 years), the Club have steadily risen through the
Portuguese ranks and having won the second division three times before
qualifying for Europe for the first time in their history in 2006/07. Last
season Pacos, under the watchful eye of Paulo Fonseca (who has since left to
become Porto's new manager) went one further and achieved their highest ever
finish - third place - in the Primeira Liga, granting them a place in next
season's Champions League play-offs. And all this despite playing in a
stadium with a capacity of just 5,255.
Although mostly unknown to fans of English soccer, PdF's squad - the
majority of which is homegrown - includes the likes of Peruvian
international Paolo Hurtado and Guinean international striker Cicero Semedo.
Notable former players include former Burnley defender Andre Bikey and
ex-Porto and Benfica star Marco Ferreira. The match will take place at the
Boleyn Ground on Saturday, 10th August. Kick off is at 3pm and tickets are
priced at £15 for season ticket holders and £20 for non-season ticket
holders.
Pacos de Ferreira: Honours
Third Division: 1973–74
Segunda Liga (Second Division): 1990–91, 1999–00, 2004–05
Portuguese Cup: Runner-up 2008–09
Portuguese League Cup: Runner-up 2010–11
Portuguese Supercup: Runner-up 2009
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hall: why I left West Ham
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Academy youngster Rob Hall says that the time was right to leave West
Ham, in the week he ended his 12-year association with the club. The England
youth international bid the Hammers "farewell" this week and signed for
Championship side Bolton Wanderers in order to play more first team
football. However Hall admitted that it was a huge wrench to leave London
for the North West. "I learnt a lot at West Ham - I just think it was my
time to move on from there," he said. "It was a very hard decision to leave
- a lot of people won't understand how hard it was. "I'll miss a lot of
people because I've been there since I was seven years old, but I think I'm
maturing into a man now and it's a man's game. It's a business. So for me to
progress, I think it was the right decision to move. "To be a first team
player is what I've wanted to do since I was a kid so to be able to come to
Bolton and be a part of something which looks positive is very nice."
Hall - who was once touted as the Academy's most promising prospect -
managed just one first team start during his time at West Ham. It's a
statistic he hopes to improve under the progressive Dougie Freedman at the
Reebok Stadium. "Dougie's a great manager and he's all about progressing
young players," added Hall. "I feel like I can only improve my game under
him, so I think it was a good decision. "He brought through a lot of young
players at Crystal Palace so I'd like to be another to break through under
him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfers: We're trying to sign Bony, confirms Gold
SportReview.com
By TSR staff
Thursday 4 July 2013, 23:17 UK
David Gold has confirmed that West Ham United are trying to sign Wilfried
Bony from Vitesse Arnhem this summer. The Ivory Coast striker, who was last
season's top scorer in the Dutch Eredivise with 31 goals in 32 appearances,
has been linked with both Swansea City and the Hammers in recent days. And
West Ham co-chairman Gold believes that the east London side's pursuit of
the 24-year-old demonstrates that the club are moving in the right direction
following their 10th-place finish last season. "We are slowly building a top
team of top names and there is a strategic policy in place for that to
continue," Gold told SportsDirect News. "Kevin Nolan arrived as the first
marquee signing in 2011, followed by Matt Jarvis last season for what was a
record club transfer fee at £10m plus. "We smashed that by several millions
this season when we brought Andy Carroll to the club and it's now known that
we have also been trying to make the Wilfried Bony move happen. "The club
has debt, everybody realises that, but as owners, we are determined to build
a great team at this club and end the "selling club" image that we have
suffered for too long." Bony, who has scored 51 goals in 66 games since
joining Vitesse in 2011, said back in May that he thinks a move to England
would be "perfect". "I'm very interested in the Premier League and the
atmosphere in England, it's a wonderful league and we will see what
happens," Bony told BBC Sport in May.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Palace prepare Premier League survival push by swooping for Cole and O'Neil
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:34, 4 July 2013 | UPDATED: 23:14, 4 July 2013
Daily Mail
Crystal Palace are considering a deal for free agents Carlton Cole and Gary
O'Neil. The 29-year-old Cole has attracted interest from Hull and QPR.
O'Neil, 30, is also free, though talks are ongoing over a new deal with
West Ham. Manager Ian Holloway is also continuing discussions with
ex-Watford man Umaru Bangura, 25, of FK Haugesund and free agent Jerome
Thomas.
Meanwhile, West Ham and Cardiff have been offered Malaga striker Javier
Saviola. Both clubs have already strengthened their striking departments
with the big money arrivals of Andy Carrol and Andreas Cornelius
respectively. But they may be tempted by the 31-year-old Argentinian
striker, who made a name for himself at Barcelona as a youngster.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM AND CARDIFF IN HUNT FOR FORMER MALAGA STAR JAVIER SAVIOLA
Daily Star
4th July 2013 By Gary Jones
WEST HAM and Cardiff are both in the hunt for former Malaga striker Javier
Saviola. Sources in Spain suggest the 31-year-old is close to a Premier
League, with both clubs interested in securing his signature. The Argentine
striker is a free agent since finishing his contract with Malaga on June 30.
It would be the first time Saviola has played in England, having featured
for teams in Argentina, France, Portugal and Spain. The International star
has played for a long list of big clubs like River Plate, Benfica, Monaco,
while being part of a select club of players who have turned out for both
Barcelona and Real Madrid. Cardiff have been busy in this summer's transfer
window with Malky Mackay looking to strengthen further, tabling a
£40,000-a-week pay deal for Tom Ince, 21. The Blue Birds also signed
completed the signing of Andreas Cornelius earlier this month from FC
Copenhagen.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison is back at West Ham United and eager to capitalise on a fine
loan spell at Birmingham City
04.07.2013
Ravel Morrison is back at West Ham United and eager to capitalise on a fine
season on loan at Birmingham City. The talented young midfielder, who joined
West Ham from Manchester United in January 2012, enjoyed a breakout 2012/13
season with the Blues in the npower Championship, making 30 appearances and
scoring his first three senior goals. Morrison's form saw Lee Clark's side
recover from a poor start to the campaign to finish in a comfortable 12th
place, with the 20-year-old producing a series of increasingly mature
displays - none more so than when he inspired Birmingham to recover from 3-0
down to draw at Millwall. He has caught the eye again during West Ham's
pre-season training camp in the Republic of Ireland, showing talent,
commitment and a mature attitude to his work. "Pre-season has been good and
I've enjoyed the whole trip so far," he confirmed. "I've just enjoyed the
work and the whole group has done well."
Looking back at last season, a smile appears on Morrison's face when his
loan spell at Birmingham is mentioned. Manager Clark regularly praised the
youngster, not just for his ability but also for his willingness to learn
off the pitch. That approach resulted in Morrison netting his first league
goal with a spectacular volley in a home defeat by Hull City in November
2012 and further strikes at Crystal Palace and at home to Blackburn Rovers.
"It was really good. I think I needed the year out and I think it went well,
because I enjoyed my year at Birmingham a lot," he confirmed. "I missed West
Ham a lot but it was still good in the Championship. "It was different to
the Premier League, obviously, but it was a good challenge. Lee Clark is a
great manager and he helped me through a lot. He talked me through my rights
and wrongs and he helped me through the season. "I probably enjoyed the game
against Millwall the most, when we came back from 3-0 down to draw 3-3. That
was probably the best game because the whole team worked hard. I also scored
a couple of good goals."
With Morrison being given the chance to impress in Cork, the player himself
is hoping to catch the eye and be given a chance to prove himself in claret
and blue this term. "Hopefully I can get an opportunity. I've just got to
carry on working hard in pre-season and show the manager what I can do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United meet the animals
WHUFC.com
West Ham United talked to the animals when they paid a visit to Fota
Wildlife Park in Cork
04.07.2013
West Ham United talked to the animals when they paid a visit to Fota
Wildlife Park in County Cork. The Hammers squad made the short trip from the
team hotel at Fota Island Resort to the east Cork attraction. Celebrating
its 30th anniversary this year, Fota Wildlife Park became the Republic of
Ireland's first such facility when it opened in 1983. Since then, it has
become one of the country's most-popular attractions, with hundreds of
thousands of people visiting every year. The Park's keepers showed the
players the giraffes, zebra and ostriches before the squad headed to the
cheetah enclosure to watch the big cats chase and catch their meat. Many of
the players marvelled at the speed shown by the cheetahs, suggesting they
would give winger Matt Jarvis a run for his money, while Mark Noble
suggested the giraffes would give team-mates Andy Carroll and James Collins
a hard time in an aerial duel! The West Ham squad also met representatives
from the Cork Association for Autism - a charity which supports adults
across County Cork with autistic spectrum disorder and works in partnership
with Sunday's pre-season match opponents Cork City.
James Tomkins and Jack Collison were among those to meet the charity's
representatives, while they were impressed by the range of animals on show
at Fota Wildlife Park, praising the wide open spaces they have to run around
in. The Academy graduates have also been enjoying their first week in
pre-season training. "Pre-season has started off well over in Ireland and
we've also come out to socialise with the public and the wildlife! It's nice
to take a little bit of time off because we have started off working quite
hard," Tomkins, who named the cheetah as his favourite animal, told West Ham
TV. "It's been brilliant here in Ireland. We're all really impressed with
the food at the hotel and the staff are friendly and cannot do enough for
us. Everyone we have met at the wildlife park has also been really nice."
For Collison, he has had the added bonus of training with his team-mates
after a number of pre-seasons when he has followed individual programmes due
to his previous knee problems. "Obviously it's nice to be in and around the
boys and it's much better to be working all together rather than doing my
own individual stuff.," said the No10. "We've worked quite hard over the
first couple of days and everyone is feeling it a little bit, so it's nice
to have a little bit of down time and to chill out. "We have our first game
on Sunday at Cork City and that's what it's all about - the gym work and the
early-morning bike rides and all that. At the end of the day it's all about
playing games and getting games under our belts and getting used to smashing
the ball about again."
Fota Wildlife Park head of marketing Stephen Ryan said everyone was
delighted to have West Ham visit the attraction. "The players got to see the
giraffes up close because we have a very open park here at Fota," he
confirmed. "We are lucky to be right next door to the Fota Island Resort
where the lads are training so they also got to see the cheetahs training
here as well. We do a cheetah run every day where they travel at up to 80mph
to catch their food and it's very good for them. "This is actually Cork's
most-popular attraction so the guys are very lucky that they got a bit of
time to visit. We also had a great reaction from our visitors, who got
photographs and autographs with Joe Cole, Kevin Nolan and Joey O'Brien.
"We're pleased to have West Ham visit us, who we hope will be the first of
many football clubs to drop in and see us this season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold makes O'Neil amends
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has wished the departing Gary O'Neil well for the future - just
24 hours after co-owner David Sullivan's teenage son Jack was accused of
being disrespectful to the midfielder. Gold was asked to confirm earlier
today via social media website Twitter whether O'Neil had, as suggested by
Jack Sullivan 24 hours earlier, left the club. "Gary O'Neil has not signed a
new deal and we wish him well in his new endeavours," confirmed Gold, who
also revealed he was currently in France with Sullivan (Snr) on transfer
business.
That message came the day after David Sullivan's 13-year-old son Jack had
been heavily criticised by a number of West Ham supporters for his reaction
to O'Neil's departure. Yesterday, the Twitter account belonging to Sullivan
Jnr - who currently enjoys in excess of 26,000 followers - posted a message
confirming that O'Neil had left the club, despite it being previously
thought that he had agreed a new deal with West Ham. However it was four
short words at the end of the message that particularly annoyed the fans.
"Gary O'Neil has decided not to stay with us, despite agreeing a deal. Good
luck to him," said Sullivan's Tweet, before adding: "We'll now get better."
"Obviously I would now like to see us bring in a player better than Gary
O'Neil, I just don't think this tweet was the place to express that view,"
mused Hemel Iron on the KUMB Forums.
"Deal with his departure by being respectful and grateful to O'Neil's time
here, then deal with the acquisition of replacement players in a separate
tweet if and when they happen."
Those thoughts were echoes by fellow member BonzosBoots. "Regardless of his
[Jack Sullivan's] opinion of O'Neil or Chamakh, it's the one remaining
unprofessional thing at the club," he said.
"I guess with Sullivan now being majority shareholder he and his family can
do what they want. However, it doesn't do the image of the club any good. We
look cheap."
Though not all agree. "He's a kid who wished Gary O'Neil good luck and then,
in a new sentence, said that we would get better. Isn't that the idea?" said
Trap1.
"I don't care if he's the chairman's son, if people can't accept he will
make the odd comment that could have been worded better then they probably
need to get out a bit more."
However other feel that a certain degree of skullduggery is at work, with
accusations that Jack Sullivan's Twitter account is being used by agents
other than the teenager.
For evidence of foul play, critics point to a marked difference between
messages posted by the teenager to his friends and in those regarding West
Ham, in which, it is claimed, the grammar employed shows a remarkable
improvement.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The kids are alright
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: David Hautzig
Later this month my daughter is scheduled to have surgery. It's called
Turbenate Reduction surgery to relieve a constant feeling of nasal
congestion.
Poor kid can't breathe half the time and the medications available can only
do so much. When my wife and I started researching which Ear, Nose and
Throat surgeon to go see, reputation and experience obviously played an
important role.
On a lesser scale, but from the perspective of physical comfort close to
equally important, the air conditioning for the second story of our house
has been struggling with the seemingly hotter summers we have been
experiencing. Tough to keep those rooms cool when it's 95 degrees outside
and the air in the attic is probably close to 130 degrees.
There are a lot of heating and cooling "experts" in the phone book. But we
have hired someone that has been on the job for over 20 years and has far
more experience with our particular cooling system to make some changes.
In both cases, we obviously opted for experience.
I thought about that a bit earlier this week when it was announced that Rob
Hall was leaving the club to chase more first team football at Bolton
Wanderers. The majority of the reaction on Twitter was negative today to say
the least. I remember one Tweeter claiming to be near tears.
People were mourning the impending death of the Academy system, begging Sam
Allardyce to give the kids a chance to show what they can do. The latter has
been a theme on blogs and Twitter for quite a while now, actually. Rob Hall
just seemed to reignite the debate.
You don't need to be a brain surgeon, or even an Ear Nose and Throat
surgeon, to understand that choosing players for a professional football
team is a different animal than either of my choices above. But there are
similarities in principal.
There is a lot more at stake now because of the gargantuan sums of money in
football. And the landscape of the game has changed so much in just the past
few years. The choices available to a manager have increased almost
exponentially. It's like comparing the corner market of our youth to the
giant superstores we have now.
Lets create a hypothetical situation and work through some hypothetical
choices, all of which are completely plausible in today's game;
You are the manager, technical director, or director of football for KUMB
United. You need a new left back. The one you had last year has left on a
Bosman and pre-season is right around the corner. After consulting your
scouts, youth coach, and chairman you narrow it down to three choices.
1) You have a 19-year-old that has done well for the reserves and has played
well at times in training. Like any kid, they make the occasional mistake.
Going for a video highlight type of run instead of playing it safe. Or
something like that. He hasn't played that many games for the first team,
just a few substitute appearances in a cup match. He has promise for sure,
but not much experience.
2) There is a left back that plays for a team in the Norwegian league and
has 40 caps for his national side. He's 27 years old, has a very good record
in terms of injury, and is known as a particularly smart player. Very safe
on the ball, rarely gets rattled in tough spots. With one year left on his
contract, his club values him at £2.5million. Wages not an issue because the
player wants a move to England.
3) The starting left back for the Colombian National Team plays for
Argentinos Juniors in Buenos Aires. He came through their youth system,
which also happened to produce a player named Diego Maradona many years ago.
He is a physically dominating player with speed that is uncommon to say the
least for someone his size.
That physical presence has also seen him work well as an attacker on corner
kicks, hitting the back of the net five times this past season in Argentina.
Juniors are fighting relegation and need money, as well as wages off their
books if they go down. So a loan for one year with an option to buy is
available.
Based on those three choices, going into a new Premier League season, how
would you rank these three options? Id likely go for the Colombian, with the
Viking a close second. The youth team choice would be my third option here,
and I bet many of you are thrilled I have nothing to do with running our
club.
At this point I wanted to insert some research about the average age of
players in the Premier League over the past ten years or so. I looked, too.
Yet much to my dismay I couldn't find that info via Google, Bing, Yahoo, or
tea leaves. I thought it might show that the average player age has risen in
recent years, furthering my notion that first team opportunities for young
players are dwindling due in larger part to increased options than
prejudice. So if anybody finds these facts, please share them.
I caught the West Ham bug just as Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael
Carrick, and Joe Cole were coming of age and taking their places at Upton
Park. The first home game I ever attended in 1997 was against Chelsea.
Finished 1-1. And Joe Cole signed his first professional contract at
halftime.
Or maybe he was just introduced to the crowd? We were getting a few beers so
we only heard it over the loudspeaker. In any event, I understand the
importance of and the attachment to our youth system through the years. Not
as well as many of you I'm sure, but I do get it.
When I was single, living in my little apartment in Manhattan, I was willing
to take risks. My friend and I once had an idea to offer electronic,
web-based wedding albums that friends and family could access. We spent a
lot of money on advertising in big wedding planning magazines and on a
website. We were literally years ahead of what is now standard operating
procedure in quality wedding photography.
We failed miserably. The timing was all wrong.
Now, what little money I have after paying bills goes into boring,
diversified low-risk investments. There is too much at stake. If something
truly stunning came along, and after careful consideration and consultation
with people I trust saw it to be worth a risk, I'd take the plunge with a
small sliver of my pie. Maybe a company called Ravel Inc.?
So I can't criticise Sam and our owners for feeling the same way.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers to face Portuguese test
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's prestigious end-of-pre-season friendly this summer will be held
against Portuguese side Pacos de Ferreira. In recent seasons, West Ham have
become accustomed to playing host to some of Europe's biggest teams at the
end of pre-season. Clubs such as Athletico Bilbao (2000), Olympiakos (2006),
Roma (2007) and Real Zaragoza (2011) have all visited the Boleyn Ground for
the traditional curtain-raiser. Therefore the announcement of Pacos de
Ferreira being United's final opponent of the 2013 pre-season campaign will
come as something of a surprise to Hammers fans, many of whom will no doubt
be sliently asking themselves "who?"
Officially formed in 1950 (although predecessor Sport Club Pacense has
already been running for 20 years), the Club have steadily risen through the
Portuguese ranks and having won the second division three times before
qualifying for Europe for the first time in their history in 2006/07. Last
season Pacos, under the watchful eye of Paulo Fonseca (who has since left to
become Porto's new manager) went one further and achieved their highest ever
finish - third place - in the Primeira Liga, granting them a place in next
season's Champions League play-offs. And all this despite playing in a
stadium with a capacity of just 5,255.
Although mostly unknown to fans of English soccer, PdF's squad - the
majority of which is homegrown - includes the likes of Peruvian
international Paolo Hurtado and Guinean international striker Cicero Semedo.
Notable former players include former Burnley defender Andre Bikey and
ex-Porto and Benfica star Marco Ferreira. The match will take place at the
Boleyn Ground on Saturday, 10th August. Kick off is at 3pm and tickets are
priced at £15 for season ticket holders and £20 for non-season ticket
holders.
Pacos de Ferreira: Honours
Third Division: 1973–74
Segunda Liga (Second Division): 1990–91, 1999–00, 2004–05
Portuguese Cup: Runner-up 2008–09
Portuguese League Cup: Runner-up 2010–11
Portuguese Supercup: Runner-up 2009
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hall: why I left West Ham
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 4th July 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Academy youngster Rob Hall says that the time was right to leave West
Ham, in the week he ended his 12-year association with the club. The England
youth international bid the Hammers "farewell" this week and signed for
Championship side Bolton Wanderers in order to play more first team
football. However Hall admitted that it was a huge wrench to leave London
for the North West. "I learnt a lot at West Ham - I just think it was my
time to move on from there," he said. "It was a very hard decision to leave
- a lot of people won't understand how hard it was. "I'll miss a lot of
people because I've been there since I was seven years old, but I think I'm
maturing into a man now and it's a man's game. It's a business. So for me to
progress, I think it was the right decision to move. "To be a first team
player is what I've wanted to do since I was a kid so to be able to come to
Bolton and be a part of something which looks positive is very nice."
Hall - who was once touted as the Academy's most promising prospect -
managed just one first team start during his time at West Ham. It's a
statistic he hopes to improve under the progressive Dougie Freedman at the
Reebok Stadium. "Dougie's a great manager and he's all about progressing
young players," added Hall. "I feel like I can only improve my game under
him, so I think it was a good decision. "He brought through a lot of young
players at Crystal Palace so I'd like to be another to break through under
him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham transfers: We're trying to sign Bony, confirms Gold
SportReview.com
By TSR staff
Thursday 4 July 2013, 23:17 UK
David Gold has confirmed that West Ham United are trying to sign Wilfried
Bony from Vitesse Arnhem this summer. The Ivory Coast striker, who was last
season's top scorer in the Dutch Eredivise with 31 goals in 32 appearances,
has been linked with both Swansea City and the Hammers in recent days. And
West Ham co-chairman Gold believes that the east London side's pursuit of
the 24-year-old demonstrates that the club are moving in the right direction
following their 10th-place finish last season. "We are slowly building a top
team of top names and there is a strategic policy in place for that to
continue," Gold told SportsDirect News. "Kevin Nolan arrived as the first
marquee signing in 2011, followed by Matt Jarvis last season for what was a
record club transfer fee at £10m plus. "We smashed that by several millions
this season when we brought Andy Carroll to the club and it's now known that
we have also been trying to make the Wilfried Bony move happen. "The club
has debt, everybody realises that, but as owners, we are determined to build
a great team at this club and end the "selling club" image that we have
suffered for too long." Bony, who has scored 51 goals in 66 games since
joining Vitesse in 2011, said back in May that he thinks a move to England
would be "perfect". "I'm very interested in the Premier League and the
atmosphere in England, it's a wonderful league and we will see what
happens," Bony told BBC Sport in May.
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Palace prepare Premier League survival push by swooping for Cole and O'Neil
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:34, 4 July 2013 | UPDATED: 23:14, 4 July 2013
Daily Mail
Crystal Palace are considering a deal for free agents Carlton Cole and Gary
O'Neil. The 29-year-old Cole has attracted interest from Hull and QPR.
O'Neil, 30, is also free, though talks are ongoing over a new deal with
West Ham. Manager Ian Holloway is also continuing discussions with
ex-Watford man Umaru Bangura, 25, of FK Haugesund and free agent Jerome
Thomas.
Meanwhile, West Ham and Cardiff have been offered Malaga striker Javier
Saviola. Both clubs have already strengthened their striking departments
with the big money arrivals of Andy Carrol and Andreas Cornelius
respectively. But they may be tempted by the 31-year-old Argentinian
striker, who made a name for himself at Barcelona as a youngster.
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WEST HAM AND CARDIFF IN HUNT FOR FORMER MALAGA STAR JAVIER SAVIOLA
Daily Star
4th July 2013 By Gary Jones
WEST HAM and Cardiff are both in the hunt for former Malaga striker Javier
Saviola. Sources in Spain suggest the 31-year-old is close to a Premier
League, with both clubs interested in securing his signature. The Argentine
striker is a free agent since finishing his contract with Malaga on June 30.
It would be the first time Saviola has played in England, having featured
for teams in Argentina, France, Portugal and Spain. The International star
has played for a long list of big clubs like River Plate, Benfica, Monaco,
while being part of a select club of players who have turned out for both
Barcelona and Real Madrid. Cardiff have been busy in this summer's transfer
window with Malky Mackay looking to strengthen further, tabling a
£40,000-a-week pay deal for Tom Ince, 21. The Blue Birds also signed
completed the signing of Andreas Cornelius earlier this month from FC
Copenhagen.
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