Junior Ladies claim League Cup
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies U13s rounded off a successful season with victory in
the Essex County League Cup
27.05.2014
West Ham United Ladies Under-13s ended their season in style to lift the
Essex County League Cup. The Hammers gave an outstanding performance to put
league champions Great Danes to the sword by a commanding 5-1 scoreline. The
Danes had only been defeated once all season, but they had no answer to West
Ham on the afternoon, who started at a great pace and struck first through
Amber Denton. West Ham continued to push their opponents back with wave
after wave of attacks, and although Great Danes held out at 1-0 until the
break, it was not long after half time that West Ham really took control.
Kelly Wealthall crashed home her first of the game, and that was swiftly
follwed by a goal from Maddie O'Connor. The Danes profited from a breakdown
in communication in the Hammers' backline to pull one back but West Ham kept
their foot on the pedal and Hannah Landen's great individual goal restored
the three-goal advantage. Wealthall then capped off a fine goalscoring
season by notching the fifth to ensure the Hammers would retain their cup.
As this season comes to a close the Ladies' junior section will be looking
for new players, with trials being held on 8 June. Anyone interested in
attending trials should see the below details:
Trials age banding
Under 11 - school years 5 & 6
Under 13 - school years 7 & 8
Under 15 - school years 9 & 10
Under 18 - school years 11, 12 & 13
Trials will be held at West Ham United Community Ground at Beckton on 8 June
2014. For full details contact Lea Hodges at
westhamladiesjuniors@hotmail.co.uk
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West Ham to land Mauro Zarate on a free transfer
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Velez Sarsfield have confirmed that West Ham's interest in Mauro Zarate has
triggered a release clause in his contract. According to the Argentine club
tonight [Tuesday], Zarate's contract with Velez included a clause whereby he
would be released from his contract should a foreign club wish to sign him.
This was confirmed in a statement on their website in which Sarsfield
confirmed that Zarate had been officially released last week having waived
any fees that were due to him. The 27-year-old forward will also make a
substantial contribution to a new sports centre. "Last Friday, the contract
that bound Mauro Zarate with Velez Sarsfield was terminated by mutual
agreement," read the press release. "This possibility was included in the
contract providing that the player received an offer from abroad. "Mauro
Zarate has agreed to waive all remuneration obligations Velez had with him.
As further evidence of the feeling he has towards the club, he has promised
to make a significant donation to a new gym for amateur football being built
in the Olympic Village. "Gestures like this should be highlighted and
remembered always. It is not common for a football idol to actually play for
love of the shirt. For all this, thank you very much Mauro."
Whilst this is potentially good news for West Ham, who could now land Zarate
for nothing, it could alert other Premier League clubs as to his
availability should the move hit a snag.
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Transfer latest: Tuesday
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Argentinian forward Mauro Zarate is expected to complete a medical ahead of
his move to West Ham today. The 27-year-old Velez Sarsfield striker jetted
into London yesterday ahead of talks and a medical, which is taking place
today.
* Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis has been linked with a move to the Premier
League by the Mail with West Ham, Swansea and Sunderland all said to be
keeping tabs on his situation.
Gomis, 28, currently plies his trade in Ligue 1 with Lyon and is out of
contract next month. The striker, who had also been referred to as 'Baby
Drogba' has represented France on 12 occasions and hit 17 goals for Lyon
last season.
* Gareth Barry is said to be a target of Sam Allardyce's by the Daily Mail.
Released by Manchester City at the end of the 2013/14 season, the
33-year-old former England international is also reported to be interesting
Arsenal and Everton, where he spent last season on loan.
West Ham are reported to be willing to offer Barry up to £65,000 per week in
order to beat off the competition. The Mail's scattergun approach has also
linked West Ham with a move for perennial favourites Martin Olsson of
Norwich, Demba Ba (Chelsea), Pierre-Michel Lasogga (Hertha Berlin) and
Joleon Lescott (Man City) today.
* A deal to sign Milan's teenage striker M'Baye Niang may have been agreed
between the two clubs, but the player himself is not rushing to secure his
immediate future. Having been deluged with messages all week after news of
his potential move to London was revealed, 19-year-old Niang took to Twitter
in order to address the queries.
However Hammers fans hoping for positive news were left disappointed when
the player simply posted: "I'm on vacation so the man to contact is my agent
Stephane Courbis thanks !!"
* Harry Redknapp is keen to sign Ravel Morrison on a permanent basis,
according to the Daily Mirror. Although Morrison was left our of QPR's
Wembley team for their 1-0 Championship play-off final win over Derby last
weekend - and despite rumours suggesting the pair had fallen out - the
Mirror insist that the Rangers boss is keen to do a deal.
Morrison spent just over four months on loan at Loftus Road, scoring six
goals in 17 appearances.
* Valencia's Argentinian midfielder Ever Banega is siad to be eyeing a move
to the Premier League by a number of sources. The 25-year-old fell out with
the Spanish club last season and spent the latter half of the campaign back
in Argentina on loan with Newell's Old Boys.
Banega's English representative Jonathan Hope told SSN: "We have had immense
interest. I can confirm I am personally speaking to two clubs who have
expressed real intent in capturing the player. He is top quality and is
still only 25; I believe he would be a major success in the Premier League."
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HENRY TO BE NAMED AS DIRECTOR OF RECRUITMENT
By Sean Whetstone 27 May 2014 at 18:53
West Ham Till I Die
Everton's chief scout Tony Henry is poised to be named as West Ham's new
Director of recruitment. Henry has overseen player recruitment at Goodison
Park in recent times as they have moved to a stylish brand of football under
Roberto Martinez. Henry used to work as an agent with Paul Stretford's
Formation Group and helped Super agent Jorge Mendes to establish links in
England. Jorge Mendes represents Cristiano Ronaldo so who knows what targets
he could have lined up for his good mate Tony Henry if he comes to East
London.
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ARE WEST HAM PURSUING A £65,000 A WEEK BOSMAN DEAL FOR GARETH BARRY?
By S J Chandos 27 May 2014 at 12:00
West Ham Till I Die
There were various news reports yesterday that West Ham were seeking to
trump the likes of Arsenal and Everton, by offering Gareth Barry a
substantial c.£65,000 a week, two year, Bosman deal for his services. If you
believe the reports, Roberto Martinez and Arsene Wenger, have offered the 33
year old midfield veteran deals somewhere in the region of £50,000 per week.
Now, Barry had a very good season last campaign on loan at Everton, playing
a midfield anchor role, but would West Ham really offer such a lucrative
deal? Moreover, does this deal fit in with the new alleged age profile
recently specified by David Sullivan for our summer transfer business (i.e.
19 to 27 years maximum)?
Elsewhere, the club have also been linked with deals for a number of other
players. Amongst these, is an alleged £4m move for Almeria's attacking
midfielder, Aleix Vidal, who played a key role in his club avoiding
relegation in 2013-14. However, a number of Spanish clubs are also allegedly
interested in acquiring the player, including Seville and Villareal. So,
there is likely to be significant competition for the player's signature.
Another link has emerged with Anderlecht's 6ft 4 inch centre-back/defensive
midfielder, Cheikhou Kouyate, who is an international team mate of Mo Diame.
One can only hope that this interest is true, as Kouyate is undoubtedly a
major talent in the making.
There has been no further reported progress in the loan deal with AC Milan
for M'Baye Niang. The last reports were that the loan fee had been agreed
with AC Milan and it was now just a matter of the player agreeing to the
move. Significantly, West Ham are reported to have included an option for a
£5m permanent deal if the player impresses during his loan period. We need
to keep a watching brief on that one. While, both the Hammers and Spurs have
been linked with a move for Leyton Orient's powerful and pacy winger, Moses
Odubajo. If there is concrete interest from either club, they are likely to
encounter initial resistance from Orient, who have expressed their
determination to retain the 20 year old prospect. However, with Odubjo's
current deal allegedly expiring at the end of 2014-15, the Division One club
may be forced to cash in this summer, if they cannot agree a contract
extension with the player.
Finally, we are also reportedly in direct competition with Swansea City,
Newcastle Utd and Sunderland for the signature of powerful Lyons striker,
Bafetimboi Gomis. The 28 year old has scored 70 goals in 186 matches for the
French club and is available on a Bosman deal this summer. Whoever closes a
deal will have secured a very good striker, but could that be West Ham? Or
does the aforementioned age criteria rule out our interest? We shall see. A
possible alternative is Hertha Berlin's Pierre-Micheal Lasogga, who could
arrive on loan, with a view to a permanent deal next summer.
SJ. Chandos.
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READY TEDDY GO!
By Sean Whetstone 27 May 2014 at 09:08
West Ham Till I Die
Teddy Sheringham has confirmed he has been approach as part time attacking
coach. Speaking to the Daily Mirror Teddy said:
"I spoke to Sam and asked for a few days to think it over. It certainly
appeals. The job is on a part-time basis, a couple of days a week and I'll
be on the bench for home games.The club is not far from me and one for which
I have a lot of affection. I really enjoyed my time there. It is also a
chance for me to experience the coaching side of the game, something I have
never really done before. I would enjoy working with the front players."
The Daily Mirror claim Sheringham is going to Ireland to get his coaching
badges on a two-week course.
Teddy Sheringham was previously bought to West Ham by Alan Pardew in 2004.
He played 76 times for the hammers netting 28 goals in three years. We will
try to forget he started his career at Millwall and had two spells at Spurs.
In another sign Teddy is being lined up as attacking coach was a surprise
interview on West Ham's official site backing the manager.
Teddy said
"I've spoken to a lot of the players at West Ham and they love Sam. That's
the main thing – that the players are responding to the manager.A lot of
times when you're struggling down the bottom, the players say things like
'I'm not having the manager' and all that. When the players openly say he's
good to play for and he looks after you, that's half the battle."
What has surprised me is this hyped role is part time just two days per week
according to Sheringham and the coach will be on the bench for home games
only. Rumours that they do not want Teddy starting up his old Poker card
school on the coach to away grounds are completely unfounded. After leaving
West Ham Sheringham won several hundred thousand pounds playing the
professional poker circuit including two world series of poker.
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Wednesday, May 28
Tuesday, May 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th May 2014
On this day - 27 May
WHUFC.com
A South African Hammer became the first from his nation to turn out for his country today in 2010
27.05.2014
Classic match
South Africa 2-1 Colombia
International Match
27 May 2010
Benni McCarthy became the first West Ham United player to represent South Africa when he came off the bench in their 2-1 win over Colombia four years ago today. The Bafana Bafana were preparing to host the FIFA World Cup the following month when they welcomed their South American opponents, and it was the home support who would be happier at the end of the 90 minutes. It was a game of three penalties, with successful conversions from Teko Modise and Katlego Mphela cancelling our Giovanni Moreno's spot kick leveller, McCarthy, who played eleven league games for the Hammers, won 80 caps for his country in a distinguished career, but missed out on final selection for that year's World Cup.
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Cole thanks Hammers fans
WHUFC.com
Joe Cole has thanked the Claret and Blue Army for their support on his departure from West Ham United
26.05.2014
Joe Cole has thanked the Claret and Blue Army for their support on his departure from West Ham United. The midfielder will leave the Boleyn Ground for a second time when his contract expires on 30 June, having made 37 appearances and scored five goals since rejoining the Club in January 2013. Now 32, the Academy graduate and former Hammer of the Year, FA Youth Cup, UEFA Intertoto Cup, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup winner became a firm favourite among West Ham fans after emerging as a teenager in the late 1990s. After spells with Chelsea, Liverpool and French side Lille, Cole returned to east London 18 months ago and has contributed to West Ham re-establishing themselves in the Barclays Premier League during that period. Throughout both spells at the Club, Cole has enjoyed an outstanding relationship with the backroom staff, his team-mates and supporters due to his outstanding talent, professionalism and engaging character. As he prepares for the next chapter in a career that saw him earn 56 England caps and represent his country and four major tournaments, the midfielder found time to thank the Club where he learnt his trade. "It's a great Club," said Cole. "Returning West Ham, it was a fantastic opportunity to play for the Club again. We finished 13th this year and we'd have liked to have finished higher, but we move on and hopefully next season they'll continue to keep their place in the Premier League and move onto a top-ten finish. "Every day is great to play and train at West Ham. It was a pleasure to play with the lads and I can't thank them enough, they were fantastic. "The fans are always great with me and I wish them all the best for the future."
West Ham United would like to thank Joe for his outstanding contribution to the Club and wish him all the very best for the future.
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Transfer latest: Monday
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Although the vast majority of players and managers are now on their holidays, the transfer rumour mill is in full swing...
* The Daily Mail are linking West Ham with a move for Almeria attacking midfielder Aleix Vidal. Born in Catalonia, the 24-year-old made 38 appearances for the Andalusia-based club in the 2013/14 season, helping them narrowly avoid relegation from the Primera Liga (by a single point).
According to the tabloid, West Ham are considering making a £4million bid for Vidal, who is also said to be interesting a number of La Liga clubs including Seville and Villareal.
* Another name to emerge from this weekend's transfer tombola is Anderlecht defender Cheikhou Kouyate. Still only 23, the 6'4" international team mate of Mo Diame's is said to have plenty of potential Premier League suitors, one of which is West Ham.
Kouyate has been in Belgium since the age of 16 when he was signed by Brussels before joining their Pro-League rivals Anderlecht. Although primarily a centre half, he has also operated in midfield for his country.
* There are no updates to report on the situation with Milan striker M'Baye Niang, who is currently on holiday despite a loan fee for the 19-year-old being agreed between the Italian club and West Ham.
AC and the Hammers have agreed a €300,000 loan fee for the 2014/15 campaign with view to a permanent €5million transfer at the end of the season, should all parties agree.
* On the coaching side, it has being reported that former West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham has been offered the newly-created position as attacking coach. Sheringham, who spent threee seasons at West Ham as a player has no notable coaching experience but is lining up a crash course ahead of potentially taking the part-time role.
* Although no transfers are complete as of yet, co-owner David Sullivan's son Jack - who has long been charged with breaking West Ham transfer news - posted a message via Twitter last night stating: "We have not signed any deals with any players yet but in the next 7-10 days, 1 or 2 players will be signed hopefully".
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Zarate arrives in 'beautiful' London
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 26th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate has arrived in London ahead of talks with West Ham United over a permanent move. As previously revealed here on KUMB, a deal to bring the 27-year-old forward to England was agreed with Zarate's current club Velez Sarsfield last week. Earlier this morning, the 5'10" Argentinian flew into the UK from where he will be heading for talks with the club. Expected to be involved in those discussions is David Sullivan, who first signed Zarate for Birmingham City six years ago. The player himself was in a positive mood; speaking to SSN following his arrival in the country, Zarate said: "It's a new chance for me at West Ham. They were the first team to call me and I want to play [for them]."
And asked whether he had spoken with West Ham's former Argentinian striker Carlos Tevez, he replied: "Yes, a little bit. The city, the training ground - all is good. It's beautiful."
Zarate played 18 times for Birmingham City whilst on loan in 2008 when the club was still owned by West Ham's current owners. After the 2008/09 season ended he spent the next four years in Italy with Lazio and Inter before returning to Velez Sarsfield in 2013, the Argentinian club with whom he started his professional career back in 2004. Zarate's goals helped Sarsfield to a third place finish in this season's Tourneo Inicial and sixth spot in the Torneo Final. He ended the season as the Primera A's top goalscorer with 18 goals to his name from just 28 appearances.
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Argentina's Mauro Zarate excited about West Ham move
Last Updated: 26/05/14 10:17am
SSN
Former Birmingham City striker Mauro Zarate admits he is desperate to sign for West Ham United after jetting in from Argentina to complete a proposed move from Velez Sarsfield. The 27-year-old was in prolific form for Buenos Aires-based Velez Sarsfield, finishing the season as the Primera Divison's top scorer with 13 goals, four more than closest rival Guido Carillo of Estudiantes. And the former Lazio and Inter Milan forward revealed he is excited about following in the footsteps of compatriots Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano ahead of his imminent move to West Ham. "Yes," Zarate told Sky Sports News when asked if he had agreed terms on a three-year contract with West Ham. "It's a new chance for me. West Ham called me. They are a fierce team and now I think I want to play (there)." When asked if he had spoken to Tevez and Mascherano ahead of his proposed move, he added: "Yes a little bit. Now we will talk (with West Ham's owners) and maybe I will sign." Zarate scored four goals in 14 appearances during his last stint in England - a loan move to Birmingham from Qatari side Al Sadd. Current West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan were in charge at St Andrew's during Zarate's spell with Birmingham. A source told Sky Sports: "Mauro is very excited about a move to England. "He enjoyed his spell last time with Birmingham and is ready to play in the Premier League again."
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West Ham join Everton and Arsenal in race to land Gareth Barry
Daily Express
Published: Tue, May 27, 2014
WEST HAM have joined the race to sign free agent midfielder Gareth Barry. The 33-year-old has offers from Everton and Arsenal, but the Hammers are putting together improved terms over a two-year deal. Everton have offered Barry about £50,000 a week, while Arsenal's deal is similar, but Barry knows his playing opportunities would be more limited at the Emirates.
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QPR boss Harry Redknapp wants to sign Ravel Morrison on a permanent deal
May 26, 2014 22:30 By John Cross
The Mirror
Harry Redknapp wants Ravel Morrison on a permanent basis. QPR boss Redknapp is targeting the West Ham midfielder, who he had on loan as one of his first signings following promotion to the Premier League. The future for Morrison, 21, is still uncertain after his fall-out with Sam Allardyce at West Ham and he was shipped out on loan to boost QPR's promotion push. West Ham may still want the ex-Manchester United trainee to be integrated back into Allardyce's long-term plans. But QPR believe they can pounce on the uncertainty with Redknapp an admirer of the England Under-21 starlet's skill and potential. And QPR are determined to try to bolster their squad on a budget with the likes of Rob Green and Bobby Zamora out of contract this summer.
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Legend Parkes out of hospital after cancer op
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & HUGH
Big Phil Parkes is out of hospital and recovering at home after surgery for bowel cancer. But the club's legendary keeper is waiting for the start of the season with as much enthusiasm as the outcome of his final health tests! He said: "I came out on Saturday evening and I have to go back to the hospital in two weeks to ensure there was no spread of the cancer and then I have the final checks two weeks to a month after that. "The surgeons are very confident that all is well and I'm starting to feeling a little stronger although I was rough for several days. "I know there's been a lot of goodwill towards me out there and I am very grateful to everybody who passed on their good wishes through the ClaretandHugh website." Despite facing a massive operation 'Parksie' has been keeping abreast with developments at the Boleyn. He said: "It's all very interesting isn't it? There's been plenty going on and we all have our own opinions on it all.
"Personally, I can't wait for the start of the season – it's going to be fascinating watching how things work out."
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West Ham offer Gareth Barry big bucks in bid to pip Everton and Arsenal to free agent
Gareth Barry is wanted by host of Premier League clubs but West Ham are ready to trump them with £65,000 a week offer
Daily Mail
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 14:55, 26 May 2014 | UPDATED: 16:41, 26 May 2014
West Ham have joined the race to sign free agent midfielder Gareth Barry. The 33-year-old has offers from Everton and Arsenal but the Upton Park club are trying to improved terms over a two-year deal. Everton have offered Barry around £50,000 a week while Arsenal's is similar but Barry knows his playing opportunities would be more limited at The Emirates. West Ham are looking to push closer to £65,000 a week and would offer regular football. Barry has been a roaring success at Goodison Park in his anchor midfield role and Roberto Martinez wants him to continue aiding the younger players in the squad to develop. However, their concern that Barry could move elsewhere is reflected in the fact they are exploring potential deals with other players. West Ham are understood to be considering bringing in former Everton chief scout Tony Henry as part of a revamp on recruitment. Henry used to work as an agent with Paul Stretford's Formation Group and helped Jorge Mendes to establish links in England. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is also interested in Joleon Lescott and is looking at a possible deal for Martin Olsson at Norwich. He will find out later today if Mauro Zarate has signed his three-year contract after arriving to finalise his move from from Velez Sarsfield. Chelsea's Demba Ba is still of interest to West Ham although he has an offer from Besiktas.
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WHUFC.com
A South African Hammer became the first from his nation to turn out for his country today in 2010
27.05.2014
Classic match
South Africa 2-1 Colombia
International Match
27 May 2010
Benni McCarthy became the first West Ham United player to represent South Africa when he came off the bench in their 2-1 win over Colombia four years ago today. The Bafana Bafana were preparing to host the FIFA World Cup the following month when they welcomed their South American opponents, and it was the home support who would be happier at the end of the 90 minutes. It was a game of three penalties, with successful conversions from Teko Modise and Katlego Mphela cancelling our Giovanni Moreno's spot kick leveller, McCarthy, who played eleven league games for the Hammers, won 80 caps for his country in a distinguished career, but missed out on final selection for that year's World Cup.
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Cole thanks Hammers fans
WHUFC.com
Joe Cole has thanked the Claret and Blue Army for their support on his departure from West Ham United
26.05.2014
Joe Cole has thanked the Claret and Blue Army for their support on his departure from West Ham United. The midfielder will leave the Boleyn Ground for a second time when his contract expires on 30 June, having made 37 appearances and scored five goals since rejoining the Club in January 2013. Now 32, the Academy graduate and former Hammer of the Year, FA Youth Cup, UEFA Intertoto Cup, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup winner became a firm favourite among West Ham fans after emerging as a teenager in the late 1990s. After spells with Chelsea, Liverpool and French side Lille, Cole returned to east London 18 months ago and has contributed to West Ham re-establishing themselves in the Barclays Premier League during that period. Throughout both spells at the Club, Cole has enjoyed an outstanding relationship with the backroom staff, his team-mates and supporters due to his outstanding talent, professionalism and engaging character. As he prepares for the next chapter in a career that saw him earn 56 England caps and represent his country and four major tournaments, the midfielder found time to thank the Club where he learnt his trade. "It's a great Club," said Cole. "Returning West Ham, it was a fantastic opportunity to play for the Club again. We finished 13th this year and we'd have liked to have finished higher, but we move on and hopefully next season they'll continue to keep their place in the Premier League and move onto a top-ten finish. "Every day is great to play and train at West Ham. It was a pleasure to play with the lads and I can't thank them enough, they were fantastic. "The fans are always great with me and I wish them all the best for the future."
West Ham United would like to thank Joe for his outstanding contribution to the Club and wish him all the very best for the future.
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Transfer latest: Monday
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Although the vast majority of players and managers are now on their holidays, the transfer rumour mill is in full swing...
* The Daily Mail are linking West Ham with a move for Almeria attacking midfielder Aleix Vidal. Born in Catalonia, the 24-year-old made 38 appearances for the Andalusia-based club in the 2013/14 season, helping them narrowly avoid relegation from the Primera Liga (by a single point).
According to the tabloid, West Ham are considering making a £4million bid for Vidal, who is also said to be interesting a number of La Liga clubs including Seville and Villareal.
* Another name to emerge from this weekend's transfer tombola is Anderlecht defender Cheikhou Kouyate. Still only 23, the 6'4" international team mate of Mo Diame's is said to have plenty of potential Premier League suitors, one of which is West Ham.
Kouyate has been in Belgium since the age of 16 when he was signed by Brussels before joining their Pro-League rivals Anderlecht. Although primarily a centre half, he has also operated in midfield for his country.
* There are no updates to report on the situation with Milan striker M'Baye Niang, who is currently on holiday despite a loan fee for the 19-year-old being agreed between the Italian club and West Ham.
AC and the Hammers have agreed a €300,000 loan fee for the 2014/15 campaign with view to a permanent €5million transfer at the end of the season, should all parties agree.
* On the coaching side, it has being reported that former West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham has been offered the newly-created position as attacking coach. Sheringham, who spent threee seasons at West Ham as a player has no notable coaching experience but is lining up a crash course ahead of potentially taking the part-time role.
* Although no transfers are complete as of yet, co-owner David Sullivan's son Jack - who has long been charged with breaking West Ham transfer news - posted a message via Twitter last night stating: "We have not signed any deals with any players yet but in the next 7-10 days, 1 or 2 players will be signed hopefully".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate arrives in 'beautiful' London
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 26th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate has arrived in London ahead of talks with West Ham United over a permanent move. As previously revealed here on KUMB, a deal to bring the 27-year-old forward to England was agreed with Zarate's current club Velez Sarsfield last week. Earlier this morning, the 5'10" Argentinian flew into the UK from where he will be heading for talks with the club. Expected to be involved in those discussions is David Sullivan, who first signed Zarate for Birmingham City six years ago. The player himself was in a positive mood; speaking to SSN following his arrival in the country, Zarate said: "It's a new chance for me at West Ham. They were the first team to call me and I want to play [for them]."
And asked whether he had spoken with West Ham's former Argentinian striker Carlos Tevez, he replied: "Yes, a little bit. The city, the training ground - all is good. It's beautiful."
Zarate played 18 times for Birmingham City whilst on loan in 2008 when the club was still owned by West Ham's current owners. After the 2008/09 season ended he spent the next four years in Italy with Lazio and Inter before returning to Velez Sarsfield in 2013, the Argentinian club with whom he started his professional career back in 2004. Zarate's goals helped Sarsfield to a third place finish in this season's Tourneo Inicial and sixth spot in the Torneo Final. He ended the season as the Primera A's top goalscorer with 18 goals to his name from just 28 appearances.
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Argentina's Mauro Zarate excited about West Ham move
Last Updated: 26/05/14 10:17am
SSN
Former Birmingham City striker Mauro Zarate admits he is desperate to sign for West Ham United after jetting in from Argentina to complete a proposed move from Velez Sarsfield. The 27-year-old was in prolific form for Buenos Aires-based Velez Sarsfield, finishing the season as the Primera Divison's top scorer with 13 goals, four more than closest rival Guido Carillo of Estudiantes. And the former Lazio and Inter Milan forward revealed he is excited about following in the footsteps of compatriots Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano ahead of his imminent move to West Ham. "Yes," Zarate told Sky Sports News when asked if he had agreed terms on a three-year contract with West Ham. "It's a new chance for me. West Ham called me. They are a fierce team and now I think I want to play (there)." When asked if he had spoken to Tevez and Mascherano ahead of his proposed move, he added: "Yes a little bit. Now we will talk (with West Ham's owners) and maybe I will sign." Zarate scored four goals in 14 appearances during his last stint in England - a loan move to Birmingham from Qatari side Al Sadd. Current West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan were in charge at St Andrew's during Zarate's spell with Birmingham. A source told Sky Sports: "Mauro is very excited about a move to England. "He enjoyed his spell last time with Birmingham and is ready to play in the Premier League again."
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West Ham join Everton and Arsenal in race to land Gareth Barry
Daily Express
Published: Tue, May 27, 2014
WEST HAM have joined the race to sign free agent midfielder Gareth Barry. The 33-year-old has offers from Everton and Arsenal, but the Hammers are putting together improved terms over a two-year deal. Everton have offered Barry about £50,000 a week, while Arsenal's deal is similar, but Barry knows his playing opportunities would be more limited at the Emirates.
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QPR boss Harry Redknapp wants to sign Ravel Morrison on a permanent deal
May 26, 2014 22:30 By John Cross
The Mirror
Harry Redknapp wants Ravel Morrison on a permanent basis. QPR boss Redknapp is targeting the West Ham midfielder, who he had on loan as one of his first signings following promotion to the Premier League. The future for Morrison, 21, is still uncertain after his fall-out with Sam Allardyce at West Ham and he was shipped out on loan to boost QPR's promotion push. West Ham may still want the ex-Manchester United trainee to be integrated back into Allardyce's long-term plans. But QPR believe they can pounce on the uncertainty with Redknapp an admirer of the England Under-21 starlet's skill and potential. And QPR are determined to try to bolster their squad on a budget with the likes of Rob Green and Bobby Zamora out of contract this summer.
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Legend Parkes out of hospital after cancer op
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on May 26, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & HUGH
Big Phil Parkes is out of hospital and recovering at home after surgery for bowel cancer. But the club's legendary keeper is waiting for the start of the season with as much enthusiasm as the outcome of his final health tests! He said: "I came out on Saturday evening and I have to go back to the hospital in two weeks to ensure there was no spread of the cancer and then I have the final checks two weeks to a month after that. "The surgeons are very confident that all is well and I'm starting to feeling a little stronger although I was rough for several days. "I know there's been a lot of goodwill towards me out there and I am very grateful to everybody who passed on their good wishes through the ClaretandHugh website." Despite facing a massive operation 'Parksie' has been keeping abreast with developments at the Boleyn. He said: "It's all very interesting isn't it? There's been plenty going on and we all have our own opinions on it all.
"Personally, I can't wait for the start of the season – it's going to be fascinating watching how things work out."
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West Ham offer Gareth Barry big bucks in bid to pip Everton and Arsenal to free agent
Gareth Barry is wanted by host of Premier League clubs but West Ham are ready to trump them with £65,000 a week offer
Daily Mail
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 14:55, 26 May 2014 | UPDATED: 16:41, 26 May 2014
West Ham have joined the race to sign free agent midfielder Gareth Barry. The 33-year-old has offers from Everton and Arsenal but the Upton Park club are trying to improved terms over a two-year deal. Everton have offered Barry around £50,000 a week while Arsenal's is similar but Barry knows his playing opportunities would be more limited at The Emirates. West Ham are looking to push closer to £65,000 a week and would offer regular football. Barry has been a roaring success at Goodison Park in his anchor midfield role and Roberto Martinez wants him to continue aiding the younger players in the squad to develop. However, their concern that Barry could move elsewhere is reflected in the fact they are exploring potential deals with other players. West Ham are understood to be considering bringing in former Everton chief scout Tony Henry as part of a revamp on recruitment. Henry used to work as an agent with Paul Stretford's Formation Group and helped Jorge Mendes to establish links in England. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is also interested in Joleon Lescott and is looking at a possible deal for Martin Olsson at Norwich. He will find out later today if Mauro Zarate has signed his three-year contract after arriving to finalise his move from from Velez Sarsfield. Chelsea's Demba Ba is still of interest to West Ham although he has an offer from Besiktas.
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Monday, May 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th May 2014
Nolan goes on the offensive
WHUFC.com
Captain Kevin Nolan says West Ham United fans can expect a more attacking
approach in 2014/15
25.05.2014
Kevin Nolan says West Ham United will be looking to replicate their
outstanding home display against Tottenham Hotspur by going on the offensive
time and again in 2014/15. The Hammers ripped into their north London rivals
from the kick-off, creating chance after chance and securing a fully
deserved and comprehensive 2-0 Barclays Premier League victory in their
final home game of the campaign. With manager Sam Allardyce given a remit by
the Board to play attacking, entertaining and winning football next season,
captain Nolan insists the Hammers squad will be going out to do exactly that
on a regular basis. "I am sure, without all the injuries next season, we can
show you what we have really got," said the skipper. "I think a little taste
of that was what we did against Spurs in the last home match and beating a
team like that three times in a season. "We have got to take massive
positives from what we have done this year, but we also have to see why we
are where we are, as we firmly believe and the Gaffer firmly believes we
could have done a lot better - we know that."
Nolan played under Big Sam previously at Bolton Wanderers, where the manager
guided the Trotters to eighth place, the League Cup final and European
qualification in their third season back in the top flight in 2003/04. A
decade on and the No4 is backing his boss to reproduce a similar level of
achievement with West Ham in 2014/15. "You want to stick with Sam because
you have to look at what he has did at Bolton - he took the club from a
Championship side to competing in Europe in five years and his record speaks
for itself when he is given the time to develop the team the way he wants it
to be. "We have always been playing for him, without a shadow of a doubt, if
you ask any of the lads in our dressing room. The Gaffer has got the full
backing of every one of us. He has done a magnificent job here over the last
three years. "I have been a part of that with him, so I have seen the
difference of when I first walked into the Club and what he has done. The
lads and the staff all recognise the magnificent job he has done, so
although it hasn't gone to plan this year in respect of what we expected to
do, I don't think many other teams would have dealt with that as we did. "I
honestly believe it is because of the characters Sam has produced inside
this Club that is why we have been successful in staying in this league."
A busy summer awaits, with the Board, the manager and an overhauled scouting
and recruitment department targeting the attacking players that will
complement the squad and pose a threat to any Barclays Premier League
defence. "This year has been tough for us all, but we have a team who really
want to play well for this Club and want to do well for the Club. "If Sam is
given time with this squad and hopefully, with a few new additions in the
summer, it will make a difference to us next year."
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Former Hammers back Big Sam
WHUFC.com
Teddy Sheringham and Kenny Brown say Sam Allardyce's achievements should not
be under-estimated
25.05.2014
They might not have played under Sam Allardyce, but former West Ham United
favourites Teddy Sheringham and Kenny Brown know a good manager when they
see one. Sheringham played under arguably the greatest manager in history,
Sir Alex Ferguson, at Manchester United, while Brown learnt much while under
the guidance of father Ken at Norwich City and Plymouth Argyle. Both men
believe Big Sam's managerial ability, vast experience and ability to get the
best out of his players under the most severe pressure mean he is the right
man to take West Ham forward. "It was a bit hard going at times and they had
injury problems as well, so it's nice to come through and be performing in
the Premier League again next year," said Sheringham, who played against Big
Sam's Bolton Wanderers for both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur and
later won promotion to the Premier League with the Hammers in 2005.
"From where they were at Christmas time, it was an achievement to finish
relatively comfortably. At the start of the season they'd have expected to
go better than that, but when you struggle at times it's nice to come
through."
West Ham started 2014 19th in the table, but a tally of 25 points from their
closing 18 matches saw Big Sam guide the Hammers to a finishing position of
13th, a comfortable seven points above the bottom three. Sheringham remains
in close contact with many of the West Ham squad - including former
team-mate Mark Noble - and he was not surprised to see his old club rise to
the challenge under Big Sam's leadership. "I've spoken to a lot of the
players at West Ham and they love Sam. That's the main thing - that the
players are responding to the manager. "A lot of times when you're
struggling down the bottom, the players say things like 'I'm not having the
manager' and all that. "When the players openly say he's good to play for
and he looks after you, that's half the battle."
Brown, who enjoyed five years as a West Ham player between 1991 and 1996,
agreed with Sheringham. The Barking-born defender said his old Club should
not downplay the significance of staying in the Barclays Premier League at
the end of a season which saw established top-flight clubs like Fulham and
Norwich City relegated to the Championship. With the move to the
54,000-seater Olympic Stadium due in summer 2016, the 46-year-old is also
convinced that Big Sam remains the right man for the job. "At the end of it,
when Sam came in, the criteria was to get us up," said Brown."Then it was to
keep us up and we've done it again, finishing comfortably in 13th. "What's
really important is that we're in the Premier League when we move to the
Olympic Stadium, and for that, who would you want in charge? "Not just that,
you have to take your hat off to him because you can't go against the
results and he's obviously producing them."
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West Ham United agree Mauro Zarate deal
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @graemebailey | Last Updated: 25/05/14 8:24pm
SSN
West Ham have agreed terms with Argentine striker Mauro Zarate, Sky sources
understand. Sky Sports revealed earlier this week that the Hammers were in
talks with the 27-year-old former Birmingham front-man. Now West Ham have
won the race for his signature, with the player expected in England in the
next 48 hours. Sky Sports understand that Zarate has agreed a three-year
deal to move to Upton Park. Zarate returned to Velez Sarsfield from Lazio
last year and has just finished the Argentine season as top-scorer. A source
told Sky Sports: "Mauro is very excited about a move to England, he enjoyed
his spell last time with Birmingham and is ready to play in the Premier
League again."
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SUMMER TRANSFER RUMOURS AND DEALS
By ExWHUemployee 25 May 2014 at 17:48
West Ham Till I Die
So it is the start of the transfer window and I expect there to be a lot of
activity at the club. It has been well reported that there will be a
transfer shift in policy. No longer will older players who have been there
and done that be considered and we are looking at more flair to be brought
in. The chairmen have therefore ruled out the likes of Joleon Lescott and
Rio Ferdinand players who we have previously been considered with younger
players with potential more like to be bought.
Those of you who follow me on twitter will know that I tweeted a number of
tweets regarding potential players who are joining last Wednesday. The first
I mentioned was Mauro Zarate. The Argentine forward is currently playing for
Vélez Sarsfield in Argentina and has been prolific this year. He has played
in Italy for Lazio and Inter Milan and had a relatively successful loan
spell at Birmingham City where our chairmen knew him. He is expected to fly
to London on Monday to complete his move and with his wife Natalie Weber
starting to follow some West Ham related sites on twitter. He will bring a
different kind of attacking style to what we are used to with Carroll and
Cole. He can also take a good free kick, something I think we have really
missed since Diamanti played for us.
The next player that I discussed was M'Baye Babacar Niang who plays for
Milan and spent some of the season on loan at Montpellier and is likely to
sign a similar deal with us. He has played for France at under 21 level and
is mainly a winger who can also play upfront. He is known to be a bit of a
live wire who is blessed with flair. A bit of an unknown quantity who could
prove to be a bit of a gamble but an exciting one at that. Just don't let
him near any cars as he has been in trouble a couple of times with the
police for driving related offences.
Left back is a position that we really need to solve especially now that
George McCartney has joined Jack Collison and Joe Cole in leaving the club
on a free. Thimothee Kolodzieczac (definitely not a name to get on the back
of your shirt) thankfully he is also known as Kolo has been heavily linked.
Although he is likely to command at least an eight million transfer fee
which maybe beyond our budget. If Southamp ton lose Shaw to Manchester
United they are expected to rival our interest. Another left back that we
are said to be looking at his Martin Olsson the Swedish international
defender who is just off the back of a good season, despite their relegation
at Norwich. It is well known that we bid for him two January windows ago and
Big Sam's relationship with the Blackburn board was said to mean that
Blackburn were very difficult to negotiate with and the deal broke down.
The latest player to be linked to the club and someone that we did scout a
month or so ago is Cheikhou Kouyaté. A player who stands at 6 foot 4 and can
play in central midfield and defence and has represented Senegal.
We will no doubt sign a couple of players on free transfers and I know that
we had looked at three players who were out of contract at Sunderland:
Bardsley, Larsson and Colback. Bardsley has since joined Stoke City as he
was offered a three year deal, large wages and wanted to stay up North so
this deal didn't take off. I have heard that Colback is likely to join the
team he supported as a boy (Newcastle) although this has yet to be confirmed
and other reports have suggested he may have had a change of heart at the
last minute. Larsson was a player who was very popular with the chairmen
whilst at Birmingham and is another who is great from set pieces and could
provide midfield option, although he is 29 in a few days so may fall outside
our new age bracket.
David Sullivan is now on holiday for a week but has promised that we are
likely to sign at least six players so that it seems it will be another busy
summer but it is refreshing to be linked with these type of players. Of
course at the moment nothing is confirmed until it is on the official
website but let's hope we see some names appear there in the next few weeks.
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SULLIVAN WANTS TOP SIX FINISH
By Sean Whetstone 25 May 2014 at 08:58
West Ham Till I Die
David Sullivan has shown he wants ambitious target next season saying Sam
should be aiming for a top six position to get us in Europe!
Sullivan speaking to Ken Dyer in the London Evening Standard said:
"I don't want to just aim for top 10. We should be aiming for top six. I
want to be looking down the table not up it next season. We have got five or
six players lined up, most are young players — the youngest is 19 but has
already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27.
I can't say more than that as you genuinely risk losing the deals.I know
people think we just say these things but we are working day and night and I
want to make sure we get as many of our targets as possible. Of course, we
won't get them all because it is tough out there. Every other club is out
there competing. I can say we will definitely have younger legs out there.
We are trying to buy experience but youthful experience. We want to see
players who can play in any of the three attacking positions and who have a
proven record of scoring goals. We want people who take on players and go
past them, people with movement because we need to add speed to our team. We
hope, by bringing in slightly younger players, we will also get a bit more
from the players we've got, because they know their name is not
automatically going to appear on that team-sheet every match — there is
going to be someone pushing hard for every place. We're going to have two
players in every position competing for every place in the team."
The 27 year old he refers to in the interview is thought to be Mauro Zarate
while the 19 year old is believed to be M'Baye Niang.
Sullivan followed this up with an interview with WHUFC.com yesterday
"We want results, goals and entertainment and if we just get a couple of the
players we hope and think we will get, these are players who the supporters
will find exciting, They will love to see them, players who like to go past
their defender, go into the box and slot it into the bottom corner or whack
it in from the edge of the box.We hope to sign a striker next week and he is
a fantastic player. He takes people on and he can be a special player, then
we have got other players as well. We might have another striker coming in
next week from Italy and a midfielder from Europe who is a 6'4" giant who
will dominate the midfield, so we have got lots of things up our sleeves.If
we don't have a much better season next year, it won't be through lack of
trying. My gut tells me that we're going to have a much better season and
much more fun. On the director of recruitment role, we want somebody who has
got gravitas and experience at a club and who has done well and bought well,
who has bought young players who have gone on to do very well,Hopefully that
will be tied up within the next few weeks. We want somebody who can dig up
gems, a couple of gold nuggets who other people don't recognise and, even if
we have to wait several years, we then have a top, top player.That's really
what we want and we think both of those new staff will make a
difference.It's a combination of all these factors, and attitude, and
supporters getting involved, that we think will produce better results for
the Club and that's the way forward"
Who is the 6'4" giant midfielder from Europe that the chairman speaks of?
Some have speculated it is Cheikhou Kouyate who is a centre back but can
play a defensive midfield role. While others believe it could be defensive
midfielder Raoul Loé.
Meanwhile former Hammer Teddy Sheringham has confirmed he has been
approached by Big Sam over the part time attacking coach role.
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West Ham and Sam Allardyce should have parted ways this summer as a split is
inevitable
May 25, 2014 11:27
OPINION BY ANDYDUNN
The Mirror
Rory McIlroy knew something was wrong in his relationship with Caroline
Wozniacki - and it's clear Allardyce and the Hammers are not right for each
other either. Rory McIlroy got it right. He just knew there was something
fundamentally wrong with the relationship and took the painful decision to
end it . McIlroy could have given it more time, worked on what was wrong,
compromised, but he knew it was not going to work out. So, that was it.
That's how it should have been when West Ham's owners sat down with Sam
Allardyce. After three years, it is clear West Ham and Sam are just not
meant for each other. No hard feelings on either side, move on. Instead, the
issue has been fudged. Allardyce stays, but has to provide more
entertainment . What's he going to do? Wear a tutu? Allardyce's career has
been built on finding the most effective way to win matches with players not
drawn from the very elite bracket. Allardyce stays, but he has to deliver a
top 10 finish – at least. Why has that become minimum requirement? West
Ham's wage bill is not in the top 10 and we all know the correlation between
salary outlay and finishing position. The most recent set of financial
results – for the year ending May, 2013 – had West Ham as 14th highest
payers in the Premier League. In fact, a 10th and a 13th place have
probably seen West Ham punching above their weight in these last two
seasons.
Allardyce stays, but in comes an attacking coach. A fresh perspective can't
be a bad thing, but this is a manager who prides himself on being a complete
coach.
He insisted the remark was 'tongue-in-cheek', but he was only half-joking
when saying he would be the boss of a top four club if his name was
Allardici.
Allardyce stays, but it seems the board will have a say on transfer targets.
Essentially, after Stewart Downing and Modigo Maiba, they no longer have
complete trust in his judgement. And there's more. "Although not everybody
understands the West Ham way, we do..." read a statement from co-owners
David Gold and David Sullivan. The 'not everybody' includes Allardyce. In
public, it seems, Sam is happy to go along with these new caveats. Indeed,
he claims to have embraced them. It was either that or walk away from the
£3m left on his contract. For their part, Gold and Sullivan – while
sympathetic to the clamour for prettier football – must ensure Premier
League status ahead of the 2016 move into the new stadium. And you suspect
they quite like Allardyce as a bloke.
Gold and Sullivan have to be admired for staying relatively loyal to their
managers. But this loyalty comes with too many clauses. It is a compromise.
And you can see that, deep down, they know West Ham and Big Sam is not a
perfect fit. They have agreed to work on it. But it will end – sooner rather
than later.
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West Ham offer Teddy Sheringham Upton Park return as Sam Allardyce's new
strikers' coach
May 24, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
SSN
Teddy Sheringham is set to become the West Ham strikers' coach. The former
England star, 48, had three years as a Hammer from 2004. He was contacted by
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce last week and asked if he would take the new
role as the club try to produce more attacking football next season.
Sheringham said: "I spoke to Sam and asked for a few days to think it over.
It certainly appeals. "The job is on a part-time basis, a couple of days a
week and I'll be on the bench for home games. "The club is not far from me
and one for which I have a lot of affection. I really enjoyed my time there.
"It is also a chance for me to experience the coaching side of the game,
something I have never really done before. I would enjoy working with the
front players." Sheringham is going to Ireland on Saturday to get his
coaching badges on a two-week course. The move to bring in an experienced
former striker was decided last week in a meeting between the board of David
Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady. Allardyce then agreed to bring in a
specialist coach.
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Mauro Zarate set to complete West Ham transfer on three-year deal from Velez
Sarsfield
By DAVID KENT
PUBLISHED: 20:37, 25 May 2014 | UPDATED: 01:07, 26 May 2014
Daily Mail
Mauro Zarate is set to complete his move to West Ham from Velez Sarsfield
after agreeing a three-year deal. The Argentine striker has left Velez
Sarsfield and is due in London on Tuesday to sign his contract. He was the
top scorer in Argentina last season. The 27-year-old will return to the
Premier League having had a spell on loan at Birmingham in 2008. West Ham
boss Allardyce was told he must excite ans next season after keeping his
job. And the arrival of Zarate is sure to set pulses racing in the East End…
or at least his wife Natalie Weber will. Zarate was signed by West Ham's
owners David Sullivan and David Gold when they were at the helm at St
Andrew's with Birmingham back in 2008. He scored four goals in 14 outings
but a permanent deal failed to materialise after Birmingham were relegated
from the Premier League. He went on to move to Serie A where he had spells
with Lazio and Inter Milan. It was in Italy he met wife Natalie and they
married in Buenos Aires in 2011 before his return to Velez two years later.
Zarate, who plays best in an attacking left-sided role, was among a host of
targets for West Ham this summer with manager Allardyce given a budget of
£20million to spend. Free agents Joleon Lescott and Martin Olsson are wanted
by the 59-year-old boss, as he looks to beef up his defence for next season.
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WHUFC.com
Captain Kevin Nolan says West Ham United fans can expect a more attacking
approach in 2014/15
25.05.2014
Kevin Nolan says West Ham United will be looking to replicate their
outstanding home display against Tottenham Hotspur by going on the offensive
time and again in 2014/15. The Hammers ripped into their north London rivals
from the kick-off, creating chance after chance and securing a fully
deserved and comprehensive 2-0 Barclays Premier League victory in their
final home game of the campaign. With manager Sam Allardyce given a remit by
the Board to play attacking, entertaining and winning football next season,
captain Nolan insists the Hammers squad will be going out to do exactly that
on a regular basis. "I am sure, without all the injuries next season, we can
show you what we have really got," said the skipper. "I think a little taste
of that was what we did against Spurs in the last home match and beating a
team like that three times in a season. "We have got to take massive
positives from what we have done this year, but we also have to see why we
are where we are, as we firmly believe and the Gaffer firmly believes we
could have done a lot better - we know that."
Nolan played under Big Sam previously at Bolton Wanderers, where the manager
guided the Trotters to eighth place, the League Cup final and European
qualification in their third season back in the top flight in 2003/04. A
decade on and the No4 is backing his boss to reproduce a similar level of
achievement with West Ham in 2014/15. "You want to stick with Sam because
you have to look at what he has did at Bolton - he took the club from a
Championship side to competing in Europe in five years and his record speaks
for itself when he is given the time to develop the team the way he wants it
to be. "We have always been playing for him, without a shadow of a doubt, if
you ask any of the lads in our dressing room. The Gaffer has got the full
backing of every one of us. He has done a magnificent job here over the last
three years. "I have been a part of that with him, so I have seen the
difference of when I first walked into the Club and what he has done. The
lads and the staff all recognise the magnificent job he has done, so
although it hasn't gone to plan this year in respect of what we expected to
do, I don't think many other teams would have dealt with that as we did. "I
honestly believe it is because of the characters Sam has produced inside
this Club that is why we have been successful in staying in this league."
A busy summer awaits, with the Board, the manager and an overhauled scouting
and recruitment department targeting the attacking players that will
complement the squad and pose a threat to any Barclays Premier League
defence. "This year has been tough for us all, but we have a team who really
want to play well for this Club and want to do well for the Club. "If Sam is
given time with this squad and hopefully, with a few new additions in the
summer, it will make a difference to us next year."
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Former Hammers back Big Sam
WHUFC.com
Teddy Sheringham and Kenny Brown say Sam Allardyce's achievements should not
be under-estimated
25.05.2014
They might not have played under Sam Allardyce, but former West Ham United
favourites Teddy Sheringham and Kenny Brown know a good manager when they
see one. Sheringham played under arguably the greatest manager in history,
Sir Alex Ferguson, at Manchester United, while Brown learnt much while under
the guidance of father Ken at Norwich City and Plymouth Argyle. Both men
believe Big Sam's managerial ability, vast experience and ability to get the
best out of his players under the most severe pressure mean he is the right
man to take West Ham forward. "It was a bit hard going at times and they had
injury problems as well, so it's nice to come through and be performing in
the Premier League again next year," said Sheringham, who played against Big
Sam's Bolton Wanderers for both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur and
later won promotion to the Premier League with the Hammers in 2005.
"From where they were at Christmas time, it was an achievement to finish
relatively comfortably. At the start of the season they'd have expected to
go better than that, but when you struggle at times it's nice to come
through."
West Ham started 2014 19th in the table, but a tally of 25 points from their
closing 18 matches saw Big Sam guide the Hammers to a finishing position of
13th, a comfortable seven points above the bottom three. Sheringham remains
in close contact with many of the West Ham squad - including former
team-mate Mark Noble - and he was not surprised to see his old club rise to
the challenge under Big Sam's leadership. "I've spoken to a lot of the
players at West Ham and they love Sam. That's the main thing - that the
players are responding to the manager. "A lot of times when you're
struggling down the bottom, the players say things like 'I'm not having the
manager' and all that. "When the players openly say he's good to play for
and he looks after you, that's half the battle."
Brown, who enjoyed five years as a West Ham player between 1991 and 1996,
agreed with Sheringham. The Barking-born defender said his old Club should
not downplay the significance of staying in the Barclays Premier League at
the end of a season which saw established top-flight clubs like Fulham and
Norwich City relegated to the Championship. With the move to the
54,000-seater Olympic Stadium due in summer 2016, the 46-year-old is also
convinced that Big Sam remains the right man for the job. "At the end of it,
when Sam came in, the criteria was to get us up," said Brown."Then it was to
keep us up and we've done it again, finishing comfortably in 13th. "What's
really important is that we're in the Premier League when we move to the
Olympic Stadium, and for that, who would you want in charge? "Not just that,
you have to take your hat off to him because you can't go against the
results and he's obviously producing them."
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West Ham United agree Mauro Zarate deal
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @graemebailey | Last Updated: 25/05/14 8:24pm
SSN
West Ham have agreed terms with Argentine striker Mauro Zarate, Sky sources
understand. Sky Sports revealed earlier this week that the Hammers were in
talks with the 27-year-old former Birmingham front-man. Now West Ham have
won the race for his signature, with the player expected in England in the
next 48 hours. Sky Sports understand that Zarate has agreed a three-year
deal to move to Upton Park. Zarate returned to Velez Sarsfield from Lazio
last year and has just finished the Argentine season as top-scorer. A source
told Sky Sports: "Mauro is very excited about a move to England, he enjoyed
his spell last time with Birmingham and is ready to play in the Premier
League again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SUMMER TRANSFER RUMOURS AND DEALS
By ExWHUemployee 25 May 2014 at 17:48
West Ham Till I Die
So it is the start of the transfer window and I expect there to be a lot of
activity at the club. It has been well reported that there will be a
transfer shift in policy. No longer will older players who have been there
and done that be considered and we are looking at more flair to be brought
in. The chairmen have therefore ruled out the likes of Joleon Lescott and
Rio Ferdinand players who we have previously been considered with younger
players with potential more like to be bought.
Those of you who follow me on twitter will know that I tweeted a number of
tweets regarding potential players who are joining last Wednesday. The first
I mentioned was Mauro Zarate. The Argentine forward is currently playing for
Vélez Sarsfield in Argentina and has been prolific this year. He has played
in Italy for Lazio and Inter Milan and had a relatively successful loan
spell at Birmingham City where our chairmen knew him. He is expected to fly
to London on Monday to complete his move and with his wife Natalie Weber
starting to follow some West Ham related sites on twitter. He will bring a
different kind of attacking style to what we are used to with Carroll and
Cole. He can also take a good free kick, something I think we have really
missed since Diamanti played for us.
The next player that I discussed was M'Baye Babacar Niang who plays for
Milan and spent some of the season on loan at Montpellier and is likely to
sign a similar deal with us. He has played for France at under 21 level and
is mainly a winger who can also play upfront. He is known to be a bit of a
live wire who is blessed with flair. A bit of an unknown quantity who could
prove to be a bit of a gamble but an exciting one at that. Just don't let
him near any cars as he has been in trouble a couple of times with the
police for driving related offences.
Left back is a position that we really need to solve especially now that
George McCartney has joined Jack Collison and Joe Cole in leaving the club
on a free. Thimothee Kolodzieczac (definitely not a name to get on the back
of your shirt) thankfully he is also known as Kolo has been heavily linked.
Although he is likely to command at least an eight million transfer fee
which maybe beyond our budget. If Southamp ton lose Shaw to Manchester
United they are expected to rival our interest. Another left back that we
are said to be looking at his Martin Olsson the Swedish international
defender who is just off the back of a good season, despite their relegation
at Norwich. It is well known that we bid for him two January windows ago and
Big Sam's relationship with the Blackburn board was said to mean that
Blackburn were very difficult to negotiate with and the deal broke down.
The latest player to be linked to the club and someone that we did scout a
month or so ago is Cheikhou Kouyaté. A player who stands at 6 foot 4 and can
play in central midfield and defence and has represented Senegal.
We will no doubt sign a couple of players on free transfers and I know that
we had looked at three players who were out of contract at Sunderland:
Bardsley, Larsson and Colback. Bardsley has since joined Stoke City as he
was offered a three year deal, large wages and wanted to stay up North so
this deal didn't take off. I have heard that Colback is likely to join the
team he supported as a boy (Newcastle) although this has yet to be confirmed
and other reports have suggested he may have had a change of heart at the
last minute. Larsson was a player who was very popular with the chairmen
whilst at Birmingham and is another who is great from set pieces and could
provide midfield option, although he is 29 in a few days so may fall outside
our new age bracket.
David Sullivan is now on holiday for a week but has promised that we are
likely to sign at least six players so that it seems it will be another busy
summer but it is refreshing to be linked with these type of players. Of
course at the moment nothing is confirmed until it is on the official
website but let's hope we see some names appear there in the next few weeks.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SULLIVAN WANTS TOP SIX FINISH
By Sean Whetstone 25 May 2014 at 08:58
West Ham Till I Die
David Sullivan has shown he wants ambitious target next season saying Sam
should be aiming for a top six position to get us in Europe!
Sullivan speaking to Ken Dyer in the London Evening Standard said:
"I don't want to just aim for top 10. We should be aiming for top six. I
want to be looking down the table not up it next season. We have got five or
six players lined up, most are young players — the youngest is 19 but has
already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27.
I can't say more than that as you genuinely risk losing the deals.I know
people think we just say these things but we are working day and night and I
want to make sure we get as many of our targets as possible. Of course, we
won't get them all because it is tough out there. Every other club is out
there competing. I can say we will definitely have younger legs out there.
We are trying to buy experience but youthful experience. We want to see
players who can play in any of the three attacking positions and who have a
proven record of scoring goals. We want people who take on players and go
past them, people with movement because we need to add speed to our team. We
hope, by bringing in slightly younger players, we will also get a bit more
from the players we've got, because they know their name is not
automatically going to appear on that team-sheet every match — there is
going to be someone pushing hard for every place. We're going to have two
players in every position competing for every place in the team."
The 27 year old he refers to in the interview is thought to be Mauro Zarate
while the 19 year old is believed to be M'Baye Niang.
Sullivan followed this up with an interview with WHUFC.com yesterday
"We want results, goals and entertainment and if we just get a couple of the
players we hope and think we will get, these are players who the supporters
will find exciting, They will love to see them, players who like to go past
their defender, go into the box and slot it into the bottom corner or whack
it in from the edge of the box.We hope to sign a striker next week and he is
a fantastic player. He takes people on and he can be a special player, then
we have got other players as well. We might have another striker coming in
next week from Italy and a midfielder from Europe who is a 6'4" giant who
will dominate the midfield, so we have got lots of things up our sleeves.If
we don't have a much better season next year, it won't be through lack of
trying. My gut tells me that we're going to have a much better season and
much more fun. On the director of recruitment role, we want somebody who has
got gravitas and experience at a club and who has done well and bought well,
who has bought young players who have gone on to do very well,Hopefully that
will be tied up within the next few weeks. We want somebody who can dig up
gems, a couple of gold nuggets who other people don't recognise and, even if
we have to wait several years, we then have a top, top player.That's really
what we want and we think both of those new staff will make a
difference.It's a combination of all these factors, and attitude, and
supporters getting involved, that we think will produce better results for
the Club and that's the way forward"
Who is the 6'4" giant midfielder from Europe that the chairman speaks of?
Some have speculated it is Cheikhou Kouyate who is a centre back but can
play a defensive midfield role. While others believe it could be defensive
midfielder Raoul Loé.
Meanwhile former Hammer Teddy Sheringham has confirmed he has been
approached by Big Sam over the part time attacking coach role.
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West Ham and Sam Allardyce should have parted ways this summer as a split is
inevitable
May 25, 2014 11:27
OPINION BY ANDYDUNN
The Mirror
Rory McIlroy knew something was wrong in his relationship with Caroline
Wozniacki - and it's clear Allardyce and the Hammers are not right for each
other either. Rory McIlroy got it right. He just knew there was something
fundamentally wrong with the relationship and took the painful decision to
end it . McIlroy could have given it more time, worked on what was wrong,
compromised, but he knew it was not going to work out. So, that was it.
That's how it should have been when West Ham's owners sat down with Sam
Allardyce. After three years, it is clear West Ham and Sam are just not
meant for each other. No hard feelings on either side, move on. Instead, the
issue has been fudged. Allardyce stays, but has to provide more
entertainment . What's he going to do? Wear a tutu? Allardyce's career has
been built on finding the most effective way to win matches with players not
drawn from the very elite bracket. Allardyce stays, but he has to deliver a
top 10 finish – at least. Why has that become minimum requirement? West
Ham's wage bill is not in the top 10 and we all know the correlation between
salary outlay and finishing position. The most recent set of financial
results – for the year ending May, 2013 – had West Ham as 14th highest
payers in the Premier League. In fact, a 10th and a 13th place have
probably seen West Ham punching above their weight in these last two
seasons.
Allardyce stays, but in comes an attacking coach. A fresh perspective can't
be a bad thing, but this is a manager who prides himself on being a complete
coach.
He insisted the remark was 'tongue-in-cheek', but he was only half-joking
when saying he would be the boss of a top four club if his name was
Allardici.
Allardyce stays, but it seems the board will have a say on transfer targets.
Essentially, after Stewart Downing and Modigo Maiba, they no longer have
complete trust in his judgement. And there's more. "Although not everybody
understands the West Ham way, we do..." read a statement from co-owners
David Gold and David Sullivan. The 'not everybody' includes Allardyce. In
public, it seems, Sam is happy to go along with these new caveats. Indeed,
he claims to have embraced them. It was either that or walk away from the
£3m left on his contract. For their part, Gold and Sullivan – while
sympathetic to the clamour for prettier football – must ensure Premier
League status ahead of the 2016 move into the new stadium. And you suspect
they quite like Allardyce as a bloke.
Gold and Sullivan have to be admired for staying relatively loyal to their
managers. But this loyalty comes with too many clauses. It is a compromise.
And you can see that, deep down, they know West Ham and Big Sam is not a
perfect fit. They have agreed to work on it. But it will end – sooner rather
than later.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham offer Teddy Sheringham Upton Park return as Sam Allardyce's new
strikers' coach
May 24, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
SSN
Teddy Sheringham is set to become the West Ham strikers' coach. The former
England star, 48, had three years as a Hammer from 2004. He was contacted by
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce last week and asked if he would take the new
role as the club try to produce more attacking football next season.
Sheringham said: "I spoke to Sam and asked for a few days to think it over.
It certainly appeals. "The job is on a part-time basis, a couple of days a
week and I'll be on the bench for home games. "The club is not far from me
and one for which I have a lot of affection. I really enjoyed my time there.
"It is also a chance for me to experience the coaching side of the game,
something I have never really done before. I would enjoy working with the
front players." Sheringham is going to Ireland on Saturday to get his
coaching badges on a two-week course. The move to bring in an experienced
former striker was decided last week in a meeting between the board of David
Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady. Allardyce then agreed to bring in a
specialist coach.
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Mauro Zarate set to complete West Ham transfer on three-year deal from Velez
Sarsfield
By DAVID KENT
PUBLISHED: 20:37, 25 May 2014 | UPDATED: 01:07, 26 May 2014
Daily Mail
Mauro Zarate is set to complete his move to West Ham from Velez Sarsfield
after agreeing a three-year deal. The Argentine striker has left Velez
Sarsfield and is due in London on Tuesday to sign his contract. He was the
top scorer in Argentina last season. The 27-year-old will return to the
Premier League having had a spell on loan at Birmingham in 2008. West Ham
boss Allardyce was told he must excite ans next season after keeping his
job. And the arrival of Zarate is sure to set pulses racing in the East End…
or at least his wife Natalie Weber will. Zarate was signed by West Ham's
owners David Sullivan and David Gold when they were at the helm at St
Andrew's with Birmingham back in 2008. He scored four goals in 14 outings
but a permanent deal failed to materialise after Birmingham were relegated
from the Premier League. He went on to move to Serie A where he had spells
with Lazio and Inter Milan. It was in Italy he met wife Natalie and they
married in Buenos Aires in 2011 before his return to Velez two years later.
Zarate, who plays best in an attacking left-sided role, was among a host of
targets for West Ham this summer with manager Allardyce given a budget of
£20million to spend. Free agents Joleon Lescott and Martin Olsson are wanted
by the 59-year-old boss, as he looks to beef up his defence for next season.
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Sunday, May 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th May 2014
Joint-Chairman in positive mood
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says West Ham United are making plans for a successful 2014/15 season
24.05.2014
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is in positive mood as plans for the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season take shape. In the first part of a revealing and entertaining interview for West Ham TV, Mr Sullivan spoke optimistically about his hopes for the future of the Club he has supported since he was a schoolboy. As part of those plans to play a more expansive, exciting and ultimately successful brand of football under Sam Allardyce, the manager and the Board have agreed a raft of measures to improve both performances and results, including the appointment a director of recruitment and a new attacking coach. The Club also plan to bring as many as six new players to east London this summer.
With two new appointments to be made off the pitch and half a dozen new signings targeted, Mr Sullivan has joined the manager in expressing his optimism that supporting West Ham fans will have more to look forward to in 2014/15. "We want results, goals and entertainment and if we just get a couple of the players we hope and think we will get, these are players who the supporters will find exciting," said Mr Sullivan. "They will love to see them, players who like to go past their defender, go into the box and slot it into the bottom corner or whack it in from the edge of the box. "We hope to sign a striker next week and he is a fantastic player. He takes people on and he can be a special player, then we have got other players as well. We might have another striker coming in next week from Italy and a midfielder from Europe who is a 6'4" giant who will dominate the midfield, so we have got lots of things up our sleeves. "If we don't have a much better season next year, it won't be through lack of trying. My gut tells me that we're going to have a much better season and much more fun."
Concentrating on the director of recruitment role, Mr Sullivan believes the successful candidate will target and attract top-quality players to the Club, while also identifying potential in those youngsters who others might mistakenly overlook. "We want somebody who has got gravitas and experience at a club and who has done well and bought well, who has bought young players who have gone on to do very well," said Mr Sullivan. "Hopefully that will be tied up within the next few weeks. "We want somebody who can dig up gems, a couple of gold nuggets who other people don't recognise and, even if we have to wait several years, we then have a top, top player. "That's really what we want and we think both of those new staff will make a difference. "It's a combination of all these factors, and attitude, and supporters getting involved, that we think will produce better results for the Club and that's the way forward."
*Keep a close eye on West Ham TV for more from our in-depth interview with David Sullivan, including the Joint-Chairman's views on why Sam Allardyce is the right man to lead the Club forward, the appointment of a new attacking coach, growing the profile of the Club at home and abroad and preparations for the move to the Olympic Stadium in 2016.
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End of an era
Former West Ham United physio Rob Jenkins will close his historic Green Street clinic this summer
WHUFC.com
24.05.2014
As West Ham United's physiotherapists from 1959-66 and until 1966-90 respectively, father and son Bill and Rob Jenkins treated every one of the Club's 32 FA Cup winners - including the eleven men who lifted the trophy in 1964.
The Jenkins, alongside youth and reserve-team physio Dave Gladstone, were the unsung heroes behind the triumphs and successes of the 1960s, '70s and '80s.
Between them they ensured our Claret and Blue history-makers were fit and ready for those great days in the Club's history.
"West Ham had some very skilled and experienced men looking after the players back then which included Dave Gladstone, Mr Brian Roper, Dr Gordon Brill and Brian Levack. Together we did our best to keep every player at the club free from injury and able to express themselves on the pitch," said Rob, now 75.
Sadly, Rob's clinic, where he held his Sunday morning surgeries after match days, is due to close at the end of the season after nearly 50 years.
"I can't say I am happy to be leaving the clinic but I will continue to treat some of my clients at home in Wanstead" said Rob, who continues to treat West Ham legends Martin Peters MBE and Sir Geoff Hurst.
The clinic will be converted into a flat and the interior, which would still be recognised by Bobby Moore today, will be lost forever.
"These walls have seen a few things" revealed Rob, pointing out the photographic collages that hang on them that sing of past glories. "We initially had a clinic up above Bobby Moore's sports shop but his agent kept putting up the rent so we moved next door into what was a pet shop. Sadly, my father died after the World Cup so he never actually practiced here but I moved in around September 1966. I've been here ever since."
Rob's 25 years of dedicated service to West Ham saw every muscle strain, hamstring pull, laceration and much more fall under his professional care.
"One of the worst injuries I saw was Alan Devonshire's knee ligament damage in a FA Cup game against Wigan Athletic in 1984. They were so badly torn he would probably have been better off with a clean break."
Frank McAvennie's broken leg, suffered at Stoke City in March 1989, was another big incident Rob had to deal with and that was preceded by other infamous leg breaks in the club's history - those suffered by Pat Holland, Frank Lampard and Alan Sealey. Furthermore, who can forget young John Ayris' punctured lung after Ron 'Chopper' Harris of Chelsea took him out of a game?
Rob also tended to Bobby Ferguson's concussion while Bobby Moore was facing a penalty during the epic League Cup semi-final denouement up at Old Trafford in 1972 and recalls a funny tale regarding former striker from the late 1970s, Derek Hales:
"Derek had a knee injury and John Lyall asked me to run a fitness test. We took a ball to the gym but even I did him in a one on one so there was no chance of him playing!"
Rob's father, Bill, also left his mark on some of the players as FA Cup winner, Eddie Bovington, can testify. He still bears a scar from one treatment session with Bill, who was a huge character at the Club during the halcyon days of 1964-66. Rob sets the scene: "The players loved my father but he scared the life out of them.
"He took over from Billy Moore who had played in the 1923 FA Cup final. My Dad was a no nonsense Welshman from the Rhondda Valley and sometimes left the ionisation pads on a little too long which would end up burning a player's leg. Quite a few of the players from that time still bear these scars. I think Trevor Brooking has one but that might have been me. It was something of a family tradition!"
There is an easy comfort in the clinic which has formed part of my own pre match warm up for the past ten years. Ex-players who visit The Boleyn Ground often pop in to see Rob, who was a big part of the social scene during the 1960s and beyond
Indeed, Rob was part of the infamous 'Blackpool Affair' in January 1971 during which Moore, Clyde Best, Brian Dear and Jimmy Greaves were caught drinking in Brian London's 007 club the night before a FA Cup tie which was eventually lost 4-0. Humorously, Dear remarks: "We took Rob along just in case one of us got injured!"
Rob's lasting friendship from his days as Club physio is with Frank Lampard senior, who was Rob's best man at his wedding. They continue to see each other regularly and their sons, Frank Lampard junior and Billy Jenkins, are also close.
Rob's gregarious take on life, pin sharp memory and love of facts and trivia have helped create an infectious family atmosphere at the clinic, which is why patrons such as Joint-Chairman David Gold's late mother Rose regularly visited.
"Rose Gold was a lovely lady who used to run a shop a bit further down the road in Green Street" he reflected. "I treated her for about 20 years and she introduced Thelma Sullivan to the clinic and I treated her as well. They were both lovely ladies and there wasn't really that much wrong with them but they loved to talk about the old times over a cup of tea. Rose used to be a regular at the Supporters' Club as well.
"There is a lovely feel to the clinic and this is due to people like Joan Saddington, who has helped me for many years."
Between 1959 and 1990, only 170 Hammers pulled on the first-team shirt, which is a testament to the reciprocal loyalty shown by both player and manager during the Ron Greenwood and John Lyall era. Every one of those players will have recollections of Rob and his father, Bill, some heartfelt and some comical. Many of them will also have left a four pack of beer for Rob to ensure a speedy and scar-free experience!
Rob concedes that the role of physiotherapist is unrecognisable today compared to his 25 years with the Club.
"The technological advancements supporting a player's physical and mental well-being are light years ahead compared to my time. Nowadays, there is a team of physios, sports scientists, dieticians and masseurs carrying more luggage than a Heathrow conveyor belt. In my day I would have a small holdall and used to help hand out the sandwiches on the team coach!"
While the game is a lot faster, it is also a lot less physical but injuries seem to be far more commonplace today than in Rob's time.
"The game is a lot softer today and hard tackling is a thing of the past. Players like Billy Bonds used to run through brick walls for West Ham United. He played almost 800 games and is one of the most decorated players in the Club's history and yet today's game would not allow his whole-hearted style of play. He would have more red cards than Julian Dicks. I preferred the more combative and less frenetic style of football we played in the 1970s and 1980s."
Rob is brim full of tales about West Ham United and he clearly holds a special regard for Bobby Moore, Frank Lampard, Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Billy Bonds, Trevor Brooking, Eddie Bovington, Budgie Byrne, Pop Robson, Alvin Martin, Tony Cottee, Frank McAvennie, Alan Devonshire, John McDowell, Bobby Gould and David Cross.
When the builders move in to erase such a poignant piece of West Ham history, Rob's memories and contribution to the Club will live on for many years to come.
The name 'Jenkins' can proudly take its place in the rich history of West Ham United as the family that ensured the great cup winning teams of the 1960s, '70s and '80s walked out on the Wembley turf in tip-top condition.
Now, that is a legacy of achievement worth preserving.
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Lee lauds productive campaign
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee was delighted to make his Barclays Premier League debut during the 2013/14 season
24.05.2014
Elliot Lee has big ambitions after making his Barclays Premier League debut during the 2013/14 season. The young striker recently capped a productive campaign by signing a new contract with West Ham United at the end of a season that also saw him net his maiden senior goal during a loan spell with League One side Colchester United. Still only 19, Lee is now targeting a place in Sam Allardyce's first team ahead of a 2014/15 season that will see West Ham play a more expansive, attacking brand of football. "It was an up and down season like any other season and it didn't end too well with a knee injury, but I will take the positives from it to next season and hopefully push on," said the forward. "One of the highs was making my Premier League debut against Stoke City in August last year and I was disappointed not to push on and make more first-team appearances, but hopefully they will come next year. "There have been ups and downs but the highlight of my season was making my Premier League debut and obviously going out on loan to Colchester and scoring my first league goal. There are a lot of positives to take and hopefully there will be a lot more next season. "The idea is to get more time on the pitch in the Premier League next season. I think I will get regular first-team football here and I think I will play regularly for West Ham one day and hopefully it comes soon. I will push on next season and who knows what could happen? "I hope I can be the answer and I am given a shot and will show everyone I can score goals and that I can play in the first team."
On a more sombre note, Lee lost a close friend and strike partner when Dylan Tombides sadly passed away following a courageous three-year battle with cancer in April. The forward paid a heartfelt tribute to the Australian, who he spent endless hours with on the training pitch, in the dressing room, on the pitch and away from the Club socially. "Dyl was one of the best people I have known and I will ever know. His is a huge loss and I'm gutted he is not around any more. It's a great tribute to him that the Club has named the Academy Player of the Year award in his memory."
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History repeats itself as Zamora grabs play-off winner
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Bobby Zamora is the toast of West London tonight after scoring the goal that sent Queens Park Rangers back to the Premier Legaue - nine years after he did it for West Ham in Cardiff. Back in 2005 Zamora scored the only goal of the game when his 76th-minute winner against Preston North End sent West Ham back into the Premiership. And almost nine years to the day, the veteran striker came off the bench to fire a 90th minute winner for the Rs as Harry Redknapp's side returned to the top flight after just one year in the Championship at the expense of Derby County. When asked what was going through his mind when the ball arrived at his feet, Zamora replied: "Just take a shot and hit the target! It sat up perfectly for my left foot and that's the one I want to curl balls with. Thankfully it fell to that left foot, it's 1-0 again in the play-offs and I've scored the winner again. It's a magnificent feeling and I never thought it'd happen again, but it has and I'm over the moon for this set of lads. "Ii scored the winner for West Ham to get them back in the Premiership as well so this one is equally as important."
Another former Hammer, Gary O'Neil, looked to have blown Rangers' chances of winning the game when he was issued a red card with an hour played for a 'professional foul' on the edge of the box. However QPR's ten men stood firm in the face of a Derby onslaught - none more so than yet another former Hammer, Rob Green who was outstanding - and got their reward in the final minute of normal time with their first shot on target.
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Diame: Dalglish sacking ruined my dream move to Liverpool
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United midfielder Mo Diame has revealed how he was set to sign for Liverpool before moving to West Ham two years ago. The Senegalese international joined the Hammers in June 2012 on a free transfer from Wigan - but only after a planned move to Liverpool had fallen through following the firing of then-manager Kenny Dalglish. "In my head I was already in Liverpool," "said Diame, speaking with French journalist Romain Molina in London last month. "It was next; I told everyone that I was there. It was as if one of my greatest wishes - to wear the Liverpool shirt - had been accomplished. "One day my agent and I went to the training centre to see Kenny Dalglish, who was the coach. I found myself amongst photos of Gerrard and company, all these great players. I was proud of myself. "I arrived in the office and Dalglish said 'I can't guarantee you'll play every match but we have a lot of games to play'. He talked to me about the European Cup, my benefits and the pre-season trip to America. He sold me the dream! "So I went on holiday expecting my agent to make contact with Liverpool's management to discuss the financial arrangements. Unfortunately, Dalglish was fired and all negotiations stopped. "I told myself that God wanted it that way and that is not a reason for me to stop work. It will happen one day."
Diame also revealed that he was offered the chance to return to France with Sochaux, whilst Spanish side Rayo Vallecano - whom he left to join Wigan - also offered him the opportunity to return. However when Sam Allardyce offered him the chance to sign for West Ham, the 26-year-old's mind was made up. "Finally I signed for West Ham, a London club that has a history.," he said. "I remember calling the coach [Allardyce] because he wasn't there during my first week. Senegal has asked me to represent them at the Olympics and I wanted to go - to which he said 'ok, but be careful not to hurt yourself'! "They were a group who had just been promoted. The coach gave me confidence and it really was a great season. I scored three goals, against Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United!"
The 2012/13 campaign ended with West Ham in tenth and Diame in demand, with a number of clubs keeping an eye on his situation - including one of West Ham's main London rivals. "There were proposals last summer, " he revealed. "I was thinking of going to Arsenal but it didn't happen so I stayed at West Ham, because I felt good here. Plus, after this season we had had I thought the club would buy some better players. "But it was a very bad start and we made the mistake of not recruiting [sufficiently]. We went through the season with almost the same players [as last year], which is never good because the players think they already know who will be wearing the shirt. "Also, people didn't necessarily give 100 per cent on the field; that's what got us in trouble. In January we didn't buy much but their presence was enough. Now if you didn't give 100 percent in training, someone else will play. It was felt on the ground and we had the results."
Diame also revealed that it took some time to come to terms with the difference between Sam Allardyce's tactical approach and that which he had been used to under Roberto Martinez at Wigan. "Allardyce has always been the same since he was in the Premier League," he continued. "He has always had results like that so it's normal that it continues and he believes in his ideas. It's true that it doesn't please everyone, but it's his way of working and it has kept us in the Premier League again this year. "Roberto Martinez asked me to play, to take the ball forward and to be feed our attackers. To really play football. Now, Allardyce wants me to be there for the second ball. If I can make a difference one-against-one, I go - but my primary role is to be there for the second ball that Andy Carroll will provide. "This season I've been playing higher up the field. Last year I played in the middle with Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan but this year I've been played on the right and left wing too."
Although he maintains that he remains happy at the Boleyn Ground, Diame admits that he still has one eye on the glamour move that evaded him two years ago. "I regret very few decisions I've made in my life but I do not want to stop there," he admitted. "I am very happy with everything that happens to me and everything that has happened in my life, but I want more. "I do not want to leave West Ham to go to a club that plays in the middle of the table. If I leave West Ham it'll be to join a top six team in England. My priority is to join a major English club and to stay here."
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Hammers set for Serie A test
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are lining up an intriguing clash with Italian side Sampdoria for their pre-season finale this summer.
The Serie A club are in advanced negotiations with West Ham over the prestige friendly, which in recent years has resulted in the likes of Deportivo La Caruna, Napoli and Pacos De Ferreira visiting the Boleyn Ground for what has become a traditional season-opener.
Last in England seven years ago for the Makita Cup tournament, Sampdoria finished 12th in Serie A last season with 45 points from 38 games - a similar tally to West Ham who finished 13th with 40 points in the Premier League.
Current star players for i Blucerchiati include former Italian youth international Stefano Okaka, Manolo Gabbiadini and uncapped Brazilian striker Eder, who was the club's highest goalscorer last season with 12.
The Italians' are also lining up matches against West Bromwich Albion plus relegated clubs Fulham and Norwich for their UK trip.
Pre-season prestige: how we've fared in recent seasons
≡ 10th August 2013
West Ham Utd 2-1 Pacos de Ferreira
view match report
≡ 10th August 2012
SC Braga 1-1 West Ham Utd
view match report
≡ 30th July 2011
West Ham Utd 2-0 Real Zaragoza
view match report
≡ 7th August 2010
West Ham Utd 0-0 Deportivo La Coruna (West Ham win 5-3 on pens)
view match report
≡ 8th August 2009
West Ham Utd 0-1 Napoli
view match report
≡ 9th August 2008
West Ham Utd 1-1 Villareal
view match report
≡ 4th August 2007
West Ham Utd 2-1 Roma 1
view match report
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RAVEL MORRISON HAS GROWN UP
By Sean Whetstone 24 May 2014 at 14:00
West Ham Till I Die
Danny Simpson says Ravel Morrison has matured during his loan at QPR
"I've known Ravel since he was young and obviously we've both gone our own ways, but since he's come here I've noticed a big change in him.He's growing up, maturing and starting to realise the potential he has got. He's one of the best young players I have seen with the ball at his feet.Everyone knows his ability but I think he has surprised a few people with his character and his attitude. Maybe it was good for him to move away to different clubs.He's looking forward to the final, it's a big occasion for him.
The Wembley showdown is also a big occasion for Simpson, who never quite made the grade at Old Trafford but racked up 137 appearances in four years at Newcastle before dropping down a division to join Rangers last summer"
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MAURO ZARATE DUE TO FLY INTO LONDON FOR TALKS WITH WEST HAM
By Sean Whetstone 24 May 2014 at 09:02
West Ham Till I Die
Argentinean striker Mauro Zarate is due to fly into London with his wife on Saturday for talks with West Ham.
The former Lazio striker previously loaned by the chairman while at Birmingham could be West Ham"s first signing. He currently plays for Argentine club Velez Sarsfield. He was sold to Lazio in 2009 for 20 million euros with a buy out clause of 60 million euros. Zárate caused controversy in 2010 when he was photographed apparently giving a fascist salute while watching Lazio lose to Bari among a group of fans, though his spokesman claimed afterwards that the player "did not realise the significance of his gesture" and did not know who Hitler or Mussolini were.
Last year Mauro Zarate has slammed Lazio president Claudio Lotito after only getting five starts
"Why have I come home? I needed to feel important, to feel liked – the last days were very hard for me. In November, I had been training for the last time with the team and already I felt no confidence. I had not played a single minute in 15 games.I watched a game and then I went to the bathroom to cry, it's terrible when they don't let you do what you want.The blame is on Lotito and a few players, in addition to the coach, it is them who make the decisions.The president failed to meet agreements and did want to pay me. He didn't want me in his team but would not let me leave either. Lotito hurts the club and devalues the objectives of Lazio."
David Sullivan speaking to Ken Dyer in the London Evening Standard said "We have got five or six players lined up, most are young players — the youngest is 19 but has already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27"
Mauro who turned 27 in March is believed to be the same 27 year old Sullivan was referring to in the Evening Standard interview he did with I Ken Dyer on Friday. Zarate has scored 19 goals in 29 league games in his second spell at Velez Sarsfield.
His wife Natalie Weber is a famous Argentine model who may bring some smiles back to the Boleyn if Zarate joins the team
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West Ham offer Teddy Sheringham Upton Park return as Sam Allardyce's new strikers' coach
May 24, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror
Teddy Sheringham is set to become the West Ham strikers' coach. The former England star, 48, had three years as a Hammer from 2004. He was contacted by West Ham manager Sam Allardyce last week and asked if he would take the new role as the club try to produce more attacking football next season.
Sheringham said: "I spoke to Sam and asked for a few days to think it over. It certainly appeals. "The job is on a part-time basis, a couple of days a week and I'll be on the bench for home games. "The club is not far from me and one for which I have a lot of affection. I really enjoyed my time there. "It is also a chance for me to experience the coaching side of the game, something I have never really done before. I would enjoy working with the front players." Sheringham is going to Ireland on Saturday to get his coaching badges on a two-week course. The move to bring in an experienced former striker was decided last week in a meeting between the board of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady. Allardyce then agreed to bring in a specialist coach.
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Morrison's QPR gain promotion
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison's loan club gained promotion to the Barclays Premier League on Saturday
24.05.2014
Ravel Morrison's loan club Queens Park Rangers clinched promotion to the Barclays Premier League in a dramatic Sky Bet Championship Play-Off final on Saturday. Morrison was an unused substitute for Harry Redknapp's men as former Hammer Bobby Zamora came off the bench to clinch a final minute winner in the clash with Derby County. The Rams looked favourites when another ex-West Ham player, Gary O'Neil, was sent off for a cynical foul on Johnny Russell, but Rangers soaked up the pressure before landing the crucial blow with the only goal of the game at the death. It ensured Morrison's loan at the Loftus Road side would end in success, following six goals in 17 games for the R's. Modibo Maiga is also on loan at QPR, but was not involved at Wembley on Saturday.
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WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan says West Ham United are making plans for a successful 2014/15 season
24.05.2014
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is in positive mood as plans for the 2014/15 Barclays Premier League season take shape. In the first part of a revealing and entertaining interview for West Ham TV, Mr Sullivan spoke optimistically about his hopes for the future of the Club he has supported since he was a schoolboy. As part of those plans to play a more expansive, exciting and ultimately successful brand of football under Sam Allardyce, the manager and the Board have agreed a raft of measures to improve both performances and results, including the appointment a director of recruitment and a new attacking coach. The Club also plan to bring as many as six new players to east London this summer.
With two new appointments to be made off the pitch and half a dozen new signings targeted, Mr Sullivan has joined the manager in expressing his optimism that supporting West Ham fans will have more to look forward to in 2014/15. "We want results, goals and entertainment and if we just get a couple of the players we hope and think we will get, these are players who the supporters will find exciting," said Mr Sullivan. "They will love to see them, players who like to go past their defender, go into the box and slot it into the bottom corner or whack it in from the edge of the box. "We hope to sign a striker next week and he is a fantastic player. He takes people on and he can be a special player, then we have got other players as well. We might have another striker coming in next week from Italy and a midfielder from Europe who is a 6'4" giant who will dominate the midfield, so we have got lots of things up our sleeves. "If we don't have a much better season next year, it won't be through lack of trying. My gut tells me that we're going to have a much better season and much more fun."
Concentrating on the director of recruitment role, Mr Sullivan believes the successful candidate will target and attract top-quality players to the Club, while also identifying potential in those youngsters who others might mistakenly overlook. "We want somebody who has got gravitas and experience at a club and who has done well and bought well, who has bought young players who have gone on to do very well," said Mr Sullivan. "Hopefully that will be tied up within the next few weeks. "We want somebody who can dig up gems, a couple of gold nuggets who other people don't recognise and, even if we have to wait several years, we then have a top, top player. "That's really what we want and we think both of those new staff will make a difference. "It's a combination of all these factors, and attitude, and supporters getting involved, that we think will produce better results for the Club and that's the way forward."
*Keep a close eye on West Ham TV for more from our in-depth interview with David Sullivan, including the Joint-Chairman's views on why Sam Allardyce is the right man to lead the Club forward, the appointment of a new attacking coach, growing the profile of the Club at home and abroad and preparations for the move to the Olympic Stadium in 2016.
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End of an era
Former West Ham United physio Rob Jenkins will close his historic Green Street clinic this summer
WHUFC.com
24.05.2014
As West Ham United's physiotherapists from 1959-66 and until 1966-90 respectively, father and son Bill and Rob Jenkins treated every one of the Club's 32 FA Cup winners - including the eleven men who lifted the trophy in 1964.
The Jenkins, alongside youth and reserve-team physio Dave Gladstone, were the unsung heroes behind the triumphs and successes of the 1960s, '70s and '80s.
Between them they ensured our Claret and Blue history-makers were fit and ready for those great days in the Club's history.
"West Ham had some very skilled and experienced men looking after the players back then which included Dave Gladstone, Mr Brian Roper, Dr Gordon Brill and Brian Levack. Together we did our best to keep every player at the club free from injury and able to express themselves on the pitch," said Rob, now 75.
Sadly, Rob's clinic, where he held his Sunday morning surgeries after match days, is due to close at the end of the season after nearly 50 years.
"I can't say I am happy to be leaving the clinic but I will continue to treat some of my clients at home in Wanstead" said Rob, who continues to treat West Ham legends Martin Peters MBE and Sir Geoff Hurst.
The clinic will be converted into a flat and the interior, which would still be recognised by Bobby Moore today, will be lost forever.
"These walls have seen a few things" revealed Rob, pointing out the photographic collages that hang on them that sing of past glories. "We initially had a clinic up above Bobby Moore's sports shop but his agent kept putting up the rent so we moved next door into what was a pet shop. Sadly, my father died after the World Cup so he never actually practiced here but I moved in around September 1966. I've been here ever since."
Rob's 25 years of dedicated service to West Ham saw every muscle strain, hamstring pull, laceration and much more fall under his professional care.
"One of the worst injuries I saw was Alan Devonshire's knee ligament damage in a FA Cup game against Wigan Athletic in 1984. They were so badly torn he would probably have been better off with a clean break."
Frank McAvennie's broken leg, suffered at Stoke City in March 1989, was another big incident Rob had to deal with and that was preceded by other infamous leg breaks in the club's history - those suffered by Pat Holland, Frank Lampard and Alan Sealey. Furthermore, who can forget young John Ayris' punctured lung after Ron 'Chopper' Harris of Chelsea took him out of a game?
Rob also tended to Bobby Ferguson's concussion while Bobby Moore was facing a penalty during the epic League Cup semi-final denouement up at Old Trafford in 1972 and recalls a funny tale regarding former striker from the late 1970s, Derek Hales:
"Derek had a knee injury and John Lyall asked me to run a fitness test. We took a ball to the gym but even I did him in a one on one so there was no chance of him playing!"
Rob's father, Bill, also left his mark on some of the players as FA Cup winner, Eddie Bovington, can testify. He still bears a scar from one treatment session with Bill, who was a huge character at the Club during the halcyon days of 1964-66. Rob sets the scene: "The players loved my father but he scared the life out of them.
"He took over from Billy Moore who had played in the 1923 FA Cup final. My Dad was a no nonsense Welshman from the Rhondda Valley and sometimes left the ionisation pads on a little too long which would end up burning a player's leg. Quite a few of the players from that time still bear these scars. I think Trevor Brooking has one but that might have been me. It was something of a family tradition!"
There is an easy comfort in the clinic which has formed part of my own pre match warm up for the past ten years. Ex-players who visit The Boleyn Ground often pop in to see Rob, who was a big part of the social scene during the 1960s and beyond
Indeed, Rob was part of the infamous 'Blackpool Affair' in January 1971 during which Moore, Clyde Best, Brian Dear and Jimmy Greaves were caught drinking in Brian London's 007 club the night before a FA Cup tie which was eventually lost 4-0. Humorously, Dear remarks: "We took Rob along just in case one of us got injured!"
Rob's lasting friendship from his days as Club physio is with Frank Lampard senior, who was Rob's best man at his wedding. They continue to see each other regularly and their sons, Frank Lampard junior and Billy Jenkins, are also close.
Rob's gregarious take on life, pin sharp memory and love of facts and trivia have helped create an infectious family atmosphere at the clinic, which is why patrons such as Joint-Chairman David Gold's late mother Rose regularly visited.
"Rose Gold was a lovely lady who used to run a shop a bit further down the road in Green Street" he reflected. "I treated her for about 20 years and she introduced Thelma Sullivan to the clinic and I treated her as well. They were both lovely ladies and there wasn't really that much wrong with them but they loved to talk about the old times over a cup of tea. Rose used to be a regular at the Supporters' Club as well.
"There is a lovely feel to the clinic and this is due to people like Joan Saddington, who has helped me for many years."
Between 1959 and 1990, only 170 Hammers pulled on the first-team shirt, which is a testament to the reciprocal loyalty shown by both player and manager during the Ron Greenwood and John Lyall era. Every one of those players will have recollections of Rob and his father, Bill, some heartfelt and some comical. Many of them will also have left a four pack of beer for Rob to ensure a speedy and scar-free experience!
Rob concedes that the role of physiotherapist is unrecognisable today compared to his 25 years with the Club.
"The technological advancements supporting a player's physical and mental well-being are light years ahead compared to my time. Nowadays, there is a team of physios, sports scientists, dieticians and masseurs carrying more luggage than a Heathrow conveyor belt. In my day I would have a small holdall and used to help hand out the sandwiches on the team coach!"
While the game is a lot faster, it is also a lot less physical but injuries seem to be far more commonplace today than in Rob's time.
"The game is a lot softer today and hard tackling is a thing of the past. Players like Billy Bonds used to run through brick walls for West Ham United. He played almost 800 games and is one of the most decorated players in the Club's history and yet today's game would not allow his whole-hearted style of play. He would have more red cards than Julian Dicks. I preferred the more combative and less frenetic style of football we played in the 1970s and 1980s."
Rob is brim full of tales about West Ham United and he clearly holds a special regard for Bobby Moore, Frank Lampard, Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Billy Bonds, Trevor Brooking, Eddie Bovington, Budgie Byrne, Pop Robson, Alvin Martin, Tony Cottee, Frank McAvennie, Alan Devonshire, John McDowell, Bobby Gould and David Cross.
When the builders move in to erase such a poignant piece of West Ham history, Rob's memories and contribution to the Club will live on for many years to come.
The name 'Jenkins' can proudly take its place in the rich history of West Ham United as the family that ensured the great cup winning teams of the 1960s, '70s and '80s walked out on the Wembley turf in tip-top condition.
Now, that is a legacy of achievement worth preserving.
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Lee lauds productive campaign
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee was delighted to make his Barclays Premier League debut during the 2013/14 season
24.05.2014
Elliot Lee has big ambitions after making his Barclays Premier League debut during the 2013/14 season. The young striker recently capped a productive campaign by signing a new contract with West Ham United at the end of a season that also saw him net his maiden senior goal during a loan spell with League One side Colchester United. Still only 19, Lee is now targeting a place in Sam Allardyce's first team ahead of a 2014/15 season that will see West Ham play a more expansive, attacking brand of football. "It was an up and down season like any other season and it didn't end too well with a knee injury, but I will take the positives from it to next season and hopefully push on," said the forward. "One of the highs was making my Premier League debut against Stoke City in August last year and I was disappointed not to push on and make more first-team appearances, but hopefully they will come next year. "There have been ups and downs but the highlight of my season was making my Premier League debut and obviously going out on loan to Colchester and scoring my first league goal. There are a lot of positives to take and hopefully there will be a lot more next season. "The idea is to get more time on the pitch in the Premier League next season. I think I will get regular first-team football here and I think I will play regularly for West Ham one day and hopefully it comes soon. I will push on next season and who knows what could happen? "I hope I can be the answer and I am given a shot and will show everyone I can score goals and that I can play in the first team."
On a more sombre note, Lee lost a close friend and strike partner when Dylan Tombides sadly passed away following a courageous three-year battle with cancer in April. The forward paid a heartfelt tribute to the Australian, who he spent endless hours with on the training pitch, in the dressing room, on the pitch and away from the Club socially. "Dyl was one of the best people I have known and I will ever know. His is a huge loss and I'm gutted he is not around any more. It's a great tribute to him that the Club has named the Academy Player of the Year award in his memory."
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History repeats itself as Zamora grabs play-off winner
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Bobby Zamora is the toast of West London tonight after scoring the goal that sent Queens Park Rangers back to the Premier Legaue - nine years after he did it for West Ham in Cardiff. Back in 2005 Zamora scored the only goal of the game when his 76th-minute winner against Preston North End sent West Ham back into the Premiership. And almost nine years to the day, the veteran striker came off the bench to fire a 90th minute winner for the Rs as Harry Redknapp's side returned to the top flight after just one year in the Championship at the expense of Derby County. When asked what was going through his mind when the ball arrived at his feet, Zamora replied: "Just take a shot and hit the target! It sat up perfectly for my left foot and that's the one I want to curl balls with. Thankfully it fell to that left foot, it's 1-0 again in the play-offs and I've scored the winner again. It's a magnificent feeling and I never thought it'd happen again, but it has and I'm over the moon for this set of lads. "Ii scored the winner for West Ham to get them back in the Premiership as well so this one is equally as important."
Another former Hammer, Gary O'Neil, looked to have blown Rangers' chances of winning the game when he was issued a red card with an hour played for a 'professional foul' on the edge of the box. However QPR's ten men stood firm in the face of a Derby onslaught - none more so than yet another former Hammer, Rob Green who was outstanding - and got their reward in the final minute of normal time with their first shot on target.
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Diame: Dalglish sacking ruined my dream move to Liverpool
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United midfielder Mo Diame has revealed how he was set to sign for Liverpool before moving to West Ham two years ago. The Senegalese international joined the Hammers in June 2012 on a free transfer from Wigan - but only after a planned move to Liverpool had fallen through following the firing of then-manager Kenny Dalglish. "In my head I was already in Liverpool," "said Diame, speaking with French journalist Romain Molina in London last month. "It was next; I told everyone that I was there. It was as if one of my greatest wishes - to wear the Liverpool shirt - had been accomplished. "One day my agent and I went to the training centre to see Kenny Dalglish, who was the coach. I found myself amongst photos of Gerrard and company, all these great players. I was proud of myself. "I arrived in the office and Dalglish said 'I can't guarantee you'll play every match but we have a lot of games to play'. He talked to me about the European Cup, my benefits and the pre-season trip to America. He sold me the dream! "So I went on holiday expecting my agent to make contact with Liverpool's management to discuss the financial arrangements. Unfortunately, Dalglish was fired and all negotiations stopped. "I told myself that God wanted it that way and that is not a reason for me to stop work. It will happen one day."
Diame also revealed that he was offered the chance to return to France with Sochaux, whilst Spanish side Rayo Vallecano - whom he left to join Wigan - also offered him the opportunity to return. However when Sam Allardyce offered him the chance to sign for West Ham, the 26-year-old's mind was made up. "Finally I signed for West Ham, a London club that has a history.," he said. "I remember calling the coach [Allardyce] because he wasn't there during my first week. Senegal has asked me to represent them at the Olympics and I wanted to go - to which he said 'ok, but be careful not to hurt yourself'! "They were a group who had just been promoted. The coach gave me confidence and it really was a great season. I scored three goals, against Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United!"
The 2012/13 campaign ended with West Ham in tenth and Diame in demand, with a number of clubs keeping an eye on his situation - including one of West Ham's main London rivals. "There were proposals last summer, " he revealed. "I was thinking of going to Arsenal but it didn't happen so I stayed at West Ham, because I felt good here. Plus, after this season we had had I thought the club would buy some better players. "But it was a very bad start and we made the mistake of not recruiting [sufficiently]. We went through the season with almost the same players [as last year], which is never good because the players think they already know who will be wearing the shirt. "Also, people didn't necessarily give 100 per cent on the field; that's what got us in trouble. In January we didn't buy much but their presence was enough. Now if you didn't give 100 percent in training, someone else will play. It was felt on the ground and we had the results."
Diame also revealed that it took some time to come to terms with the difference between Sam Allardyce's tactical approach and that which he had been used to under Roberto Martinez at Wigan. "Allardyce has always been the same since he was in the Premier League," he continued. "He has always had results like that so it's normal that it continues and he believes in his ideas. It's true that it doesn't please everyone, but it's his way of working and it has kept us in the Premier League again this year. "Roberto Martinez asked me to play, to take the ball forward and to be feed our attackers. To really play football. Now, Allardyce wants me to be there for the second ball. If I can make a difference one-against-one, I go - but my primary role is to be there for the second ball that Andy Carroll will provide. "This season I've been playing higher up the field. Last year I played in the middle with Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan but this year I've been played on the right and left wing too."
Although he maintains that he remains happy at the Boleyn Ground, Diame admits that he still has one eye on the glamour move that evaded him two years ago. "I regret very few decisions I've made in my life but I do not want to stop there," he admitted. "I am very happy with everything that happens to me and everything that has happened in my life, but I want more. "I do not want to leave West Ham to go to a club that plays in the middle of the table. If I leave West Ham it'll be to join a top six team in England. My priority is to join a major English club and to stay here."
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Hammers set for Serie A test
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 24th May 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are lining up an intriguing clash with Italian side Sampdoria for their pre-season finale this summer.
The Serie A club are in advanced negotiations with West Ham over the prestige friendly, which in recent years has resulted in the likes of Deportivo La Caruna, Napoli and Pacos De Ferreira visiting the Boleyn Ground for what has become a traditional season-opener.
Last in England seven years ago for the Makita Cup tournament, Sampdoria finished 12th in Serie A last season with 45 points from 38 games - a similar tally to West Ham who finished 13th with 40 points in the Premier League.
Current star players for i Blucerchiati include former Italian youth international Stefano Okaka, Manolo Gabbiadini and uncapped Brazilian striker Eder, who was the club's highest goalscorer last season with 12.
The Italians' are also lining up matches against West Bromwich Albion plus relegated clubs Fulham and Norwich for their UK trip.
Pre-season prestige: how we've fared in recent seasons
≡ 10th August 2013
West Ham Utd 2-1 Pacos de Ferreira
view match report
≡ 10th August 2012
SC Braga 1-1 West Ham Utd
view match report
≡ 30th July 2011
West Ham Utd 2-0 Real Zaragoza
view match report
≡ 7th August 2010
West Ham Utd 0-0 Deportivo La Coruna (West Ham win 5-3 on pens)
view match report
≡ 8th August 2009
West Ham Utd 0-1 Napoli
view match report
≡ 9th August 2008
West Ham Utd 1-1 Villareal
view match report
≡ 4th August 2007
West Ham Utd 2-1 Roma 1
view match report
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RAVEL MORRISON HAS GROWN UP
By Sean Whetstone 24 May 2014 at 14:00
West Ham Till I Die
Danny Simpson says Ravel Morrison has matured during his loan at QPR
"I've known Ravel since he was young and obviously we've both gone our own ways, but since he's come here I've noticed a big change in him.He's growing up, maturing and starting to realise the potential he has got. He's one of the best young players I have seen with the ball at his feet.Everyone knows his ability but I think he has surprised a few people with his character and his attitude. Maybe it was good for him to move away to different clubs.He's looking forward to the final, it's a big occasion for him.
The Wembley showdown is also a big occasion for Simpson, who never quite made the grade at Old Trafford but racked up 137 appearances in four years at Newcastle before dropping down a division to join Rangers last summer"
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MAURO ZARATE DUE TO FLY INTO LONDON FOR TALKS WITH WEST HAM
By Sean Whetstone 24 May 2014 at 09:02
West Ham Till I Die
Argentinean striker Mauro Zarate is due to fly into London with his wife on Saturday for talks with West Ham.
The former Lazio striker previously loaned by the chairman while at Birmingham could be West Ham"s first signing. He currently plays for Argentine club Velez Sarsfield. He was sold to Lazio in 2009 for 20 million euros with a buy out clause of 60 million euros. Zárate caused controversy in 2010 when he was photographed apparently giving a fascist salute while watching Lazio lose to Bari among a group of fans, though his spokesman claimed afterwards that the player "did not realise the significance of his gesture" and did not know who Hitler or Mussolini were.
Last year Mauro Zarate has slammed Lazio president Claudio Lotito after only getting five starts
"Why have I come home? I needed to feel important, to feel liked – the last days were very hard for me. In November, I had been training for the last time with the team and already I felt no confidence. I had not played a single minute in 15 games.I watched a game and then I went to the bathroom to cry, it's terrible when they don't let you do what you want.The blame is on Lotito and a few players, in addition to the coach, it is them who make the decisions.The president failed to meet agreements and did want to pay me. He didn't want me in his team but would not let me leave either. Lotito hurts the club and devalues the objectives of Lazio."
David Sullivan speaking to Ken Dyer in the London Evening Standard said "We have got five or six players lined up, most are young players — the youngest is 19 but has already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27"
Mauro who turned 27 in March is believed to be the same 27 year old Sullivan was referring to in the Evening Standard interview he did with I Ken Dyer on Friday. Zarate has scored 19 goals in 29 league games in his second spell at Velez Sarsfield.
His wife Natalie Weber is a famous Argentine model who may bring some smiles back to the Boleyn if Zarate joins the team
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West Ham offer Teddy Sheringham Upton Park return as Sam Allardyce's new strikers' coach
May 24, 2014 22:30 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror
Teddy Sheringham is set to become the West Ham strikers' coach. The former England star, 48, had three years as a Hammer from 2004. He was contacted by West Ham manager Sam Allardyce last week and asked if he would take the new role as the club try to produce more attacking football next season.
Sheringham said: "I spoke to Sam and asked for a few days to think it over. It certainly appeals. "The job is on a part-time basis, a couple of days a week and I'll be on the bench for home games. "The club is not far from me and one for which I have a lot of affection. I really enjoyed my time there. "It is also a chance for me to experience the coaching side of the game, something I have never really done before. I would enjoy working with the front players." Sheringham is going to Ireland on Saturday to get his coaching badges on a two-week course. The move to bring in an experienced former striker was decided last week in a meeting between the board of David Gold, David Sullivan and Karren Brady. Allardyce then agreed to bring in a specialist coach.
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Morrison's QPR gain promotion
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison's loan club gained promotion to the Barclays Premier League on Saturday
24.05.2014
Ravel Morrison's loan club Queens Park Rangers clinched promotion to the Barclays Premier League in a dramatic Sky Bet Championship Play-Off final on Saturday. Morrison was an unused substitute for Harry Redknapp's men as former Hammer Bobby Zamora came off the bench to clinch a final minute winner in the clash with Derby County. The Rams looked favourites when another ex-West Ham player, Gary O'Neil, was sent off for a cynical foul on Johnny Russell, but Rangers soaked up the pressure before landing the crucial blow with the only goal of the game at the death. It ensured Morrison's loan at the Loftus Road side would end in success, following six goals in 17 games for the R's. Modibo Maiga is also on loan at QPR, but was not involved at Wembley on Saturday.
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Saturday, May 24
Daily WHUFC News - 24th May 2014
Nobes chuffed with players' accolade
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble was delighted to win the respect of his West Ham United squad-mates in 2013/14
23.05.2014
Mark Noble enjoyed a fruitful Player Awards, gaining recognition both from the supporters to land the Hammer of the Year gong, and his own team-mates to be named Players' Player of the Year. The No16 was justifiably proud of his trophy haul from a season which brought success on a personal level. Noble, who has come through to Academy to make his mark on the Hammers' first team, was a model of consistency in the middle of the park, and he was thrilled that his fellow players had picked him out as the top performer. "It's an amazing feeling to win the Players' Player of the Year Award," he admitted. "All the hard work has paid off and winning the Hammer of the Year is an amazing achievement, but it's special to get the award from your own team-mates too. "It was a bit emotional listening to the messages from the players, because you don't get gestures like that from each other in training! "To get that from your team-mates, talking like that about you, is overwhelming."
Noble started all 38 league games in 2013/14 and the No16 says that, following the team's climb away from danger, it was a year he'll look back on as a successful one. He added: "I was proud to start in every single Premier League game this season, I got close last year before I got a shoulder injury, but I did it this year and I was chuffed with the awards. "It was a lovely evening at the Player Awards - it always is, we get well looked after and the lads thoroughly enjoyed it."
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Bellamy pays tribute to Hammers
WHUFC.com
Craig Bellamy had kind words for West Ham United on announcing his retirement from professional football
23.05.2014
Former West Ham United favourite Craig Bellamy has paid tribute to the Hammers on his retirement from the professional game. Bellamy, 34, has called time on a long and distinguished career that included 73 International caps for Wales and spells at Norwich City, Coventry City, Newcastle United, Celtic, Blackburn Rovers, Liverpool, Manchester City, Cardiff City and, of course, West Ham. Bellamy joined the Hammers in July 2007 for a then-record transfer fee, scoring his first two goals for the Club in a League Cup victory against Bristol Rovers the following month. He went on to make 26 appearances in all competitions, scoring nine goals before moving to Man City in January 2009. An all-action, skilful and whole-hearted player was held in high regard by the Boleyn Ground faithful, with supporters sharing fond memories of his best moments on the Club's social media forums, including a 4-1 win at Portsmouth on Boxing Day 2008 when he bagged twice and a standout goal against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge earlier the same month. The Cardiff-born forward only had kind words for West Ham and its fans when reflecting on his career. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Wales Online, Bellamy said: "I've been privileged to play at some truly top clubs, next to brilliant team-mates, excellent managers. People I'm honoured to be able to say were my colleagues. "People know about Liverpool, Man City, Newcastle, Celtic, Cardiff, but don't forget West Ham. Only on going there did I realise just what a massive club they are. To Londoners, West Ham are very much THE club." A fantastic attacking talent who gave everything he had on the pitch for club and country, everyone at West Ham United wishes Craig every success and happiness in his retirement.
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Retained List published
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have issued the Club's Retained List of players at the end of the 2013/14 season
23.05.2014
West Ham United have issued the Club's Retained List of players at the end of the 2013/14 season. The Hammers can confirm that Joe Cole, George McCartney and Jack Collison will be given free transfers when their contracts expire on 30 June. West Ham United would like to thank Joe, George and Jack for their considerable efforts and contribution to the success of the Club in recent seasons and wish them well in their future careers. Discussions with goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are ongoing over new contracts, while the Club has exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. Second-year scholars Kieran Bywater, Josh Cullen, Jamie Harney, Moses Makasi, Nathan Mavila, Amos Nasha and Lewis Page have agreed their first professional deals, while Ben Marlow and Taylor Tombides have had their scholarships extended to a third year. Young professionals Callum Driver and Jordan Spence will also be released this summer, as will scholars Dymon Labonne, Rob Girdlestone, Thomas Gogo, Gines Guzman Rosique, Courtney Homans, Taylor Miles and Frazer Shaw. The Club would like to thank all the departing players for their efforts and wish them well in their future careers.
*Keep an eye on whufc.com for more from Joe Cole and Jack Collison.
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Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Ben Shephard blogs about playing at the Boleyn Ground and hosting this year's Player Awards
22.05.2014
Hi everyone,
With the season over, I was lucky enough to play at the Boleyn Ground recently when I played for Alan Devonshire's West Ham team against a number of invited sides that decided they fancied taking on some of the legends from West Ham's past. When you come down regularly to Upton Park and you have been for years now to watch your team play, you always imagine what it's like to play here. It's always real thrill to pull on your boots and get out there. Fortunately there's no one really here to see how appalling the football is, apart from some of the old boys and a few of the youngsters who are pretty good. It's an absolute thrill to be here and put your boots on and smash one in the back of the net as well. I also enjoyed another year of hosting the Club's Player Awards, which is always a great night. It's a great way to get to end of the season and think you know what, we're still in the Premier League, we've had some great results, we beat Spurs three times and it's not often you get to say that. We made a point of saying that over and over again and enjoying it. It's a brilliant night, the players mix with the fans that have come down and it's a chance for them to talk about the season and start planning for the new season as well, which I think is one of the really key things. It's been a difficult season as fans, but you look at the positives. We finished brilliantly against Spurs and we had that great run in the middle of the season which got us safe and if we think about next season now I think it's quite exciting what we can achieve. All the winners at the Player Awards were worthy winners. Mark Noble is just a legend around here having grown up just around the corner he's West Ham through and through. I think I said on the night that he's the pride of east London.
It's great to be around him and the Club runs through his veins, so he was a worthy Hammer of the Year. Adrian just cleaned up left, right and centre and what a fantastic guy! I tried to speak to him in English, but his English isn't great at the moment, but if you think about how he's commanded that area brilliantly all season it's remarkable. He needs to work on his cockney though; there wasn't enough apples and pears for me, but a brilliant selfie which was a lovely touch.
You can tell he's really enjoyed this season which is great as a West Ham fan because you just want to know that players love pulling on the West Ham shirt. You want to know that every time they go out they're going to give it their all and Mark and Adrian are examples of players who did just that last season.
I get another chance to pull on my boots next month when I'll be playing under the guidance of Sam Allardyce - something I enjoy as I've never lost when Big Sam has managed us in Soccer Aid. He put me on man-marking Clarence Seedorf last time which was an interesting experience. Seedorf didn't like it much because, if anyone's seen me play football, I play a little bit like a rugby player and Seedorf didn't like that.
We're up against Jose Mourinho, he's the Rest of the World's manager this year, so I know that Sam and Jose are going to lock horns again. The tactical battle's going to be pretty immense I reckon. Jose's going to be up to his old tricks and Sam will love every minute of it. It's a great, great experience and I think over the years we've raised £12 million for UNICEF and it's a great excuse for us to go and pretend to be professional footballers for a couple of days.
Tune in if you can to support a great cause!
COYI!
Ben Shephard
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West Ham United: Joe Cole, Jack Collison and George McCartney released
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United have released former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, whose contract expires on 30 June. The 32-year-old made 25 appearances for the Hammers this season after joining the club for a second spell on an 18-month contract in January 2013. The Londoners have also released defender George McCartney and midfielder Jack Collison. Contract discussions with goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are ongoing. Meanwhile, the Hammers have exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. West Ham said on their website: "We would like to thank Joe, George and Jack for their considerable efforts and contribution to the success of the club in recent seasons and wish them well in their future careers." West Ham manager Sam Allardyce will stay in charge this season but the board have insisted on the recruitment of a new attacking coach "to ensure the team provides more entertainment next season". A product of West Ham's youth academy, Cole signed professional terms in 1998 and helped the Hammers win the FA Youth Cup the following year. During his first spell at Upton Park, he played alongside the likes of Paolo Di Canio, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick and Jermain Defoe, but he moved across London to Chelsea when the club was relegated. Cole, who has been capped 56 times by England, won three Premier League titles and the FA Cup twice in a seven-year stay with the Blues. After failing to agree a new contract he moved to Liverpool but he struggled to impress at Anfield and spent 2011-12 on loan at French club Lille.
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West Ham close in on €5m teenage forward
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
A deal to bring young French forward M'Baye Niang to West Ham United has been agreed, according to reports. Just 19, Niang has been made surplus to requirements by current club Milan who shipped him out on loan to Ligue 1 club Montpellier for the duration of the 2013/14 season. According to reports emanating from Italy tonight, Niang - who scored four goals in 19 appearances for La Paillade - will join West Ham initially on loan (for a €300,000 fee) with view to a €5million deal next summer. It should however be stressed that personal terms are yet to be agreed. Meanwhile Sport Bladet are reporting that West Ham are considering a move for Sunderland's Swedish midfielder Sebastien Larsson and his international team mate, Martin Olsson of Norwich. Larsson, 28, is out of contract at the Stadium of Light this summer whilst Olsson is understood to be keen to leave Carrow Road following the Canaries' relegation from the Premier League.
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Jack Collison leaves West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Jack Collison is one of the higher-profile names not to be offered a new contract by West Ham this summer. Midfielder Collison, whose career at the club has been blighted by injury in recent years will leave West Ham next month after nine years at the club having failed to be offered a new deal. The 25-year-old, who first came to West Ham in 2005 as a result of Cambridge United's youth Academy closing made his debut for West Ham on New Year's Day 2008 in a 2-0 defeat at Arsenal. He went on to make 121 appearances for West Ham and played a major part in the club's promotion from the Championship in 2011/12 by scoring both goals in the 2-0 win at Cardiff in the first leg of the play-off semi final. Also departing at the end of their current contracts are Joe Cole and George McCartney, both of whom returned to West Ham for a second spell with the club. Cole started his career with West Ham before joining Chelsea in a cut-price £6million deal as part of the club's 'fire sale' following relegation in 2003. He returned to the club in 2013 on a free transfer. Northern-Irish international McCartney joined the club in 2006 when moving from Sunderland in exchange for full back Clive Clarke and £600,000. Two years later he was sold back to the Black Cats for an undisclosed fee widely thought to be worth around £8million. After spending a year back at West Ham on loan during the 2011/12 Championship season, McCartney returned to West Ham on a permanent basis. There is however better news for Danny Potts, who has landed an extended deal whilst veteran goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and 32-year-old midfielder Matt Taylor are reported to be negotiating new contracts.
See below for details of all players retained and released below.
Retained
First Team Squad: Dan Potts (Jussi Jaaskelainen and Matt Taylor tbc).
First Year Pros: Kieran Bywater; Josh Cullen; Jamie Harney; Moses Makasi; Nathan Mavila; Amos Nasha; Lewis Page.
Third-Year Scholarships: Ben Marlow; Taylor Tombides.
Released
First Team Squad: Joe Cole; Jack Collison; George McCartney.
Other Pros: Callum Driver; Jordan Spence.
Scholarships: Dymon Labonne; Rob Girdlestone; Thomas Gogo; Gines Guzman Rosique; Courtney Homans; Taylor Miles; Frazer Shaw.
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Sullivan seeking European football
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan may have told Sam Allardyce that it's top ten or bust next season - but according to reports today, it's a European spot that he's actually aiming for. The current manager was told earlier this week that his job was safe, albeit with a new brief for the 2014/15 season. West Ham announced via their website that Allardyce had been instructed to deliver a top ten finish - although Sullivan, speaking to the Evening Standard this morning has set his sights even higher. "I don't want to just aim for top 10," he said. "We should be aiming for top six. I want to be looking down the table, not up it next season. We start next season with three competitions, two of which we can win." And in order to achieve that particularly difficult aim, Sullivan - speaking less than a fortnight before the season ticket renewal deadline - added that he is looking to introduce around half-a-dozen players to Allardyce's first team squad during pre-season.
"Most are young players," he revealed. "The youngest is 19 but has already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27. "I can't say more than that as you genuinely risk losing the deals. I know people think we just say these things but we are working day and night and I want to make sure we get as many of our targets as possible. "Of course, we won't get them all because it is tough out there but I can say we will definitely have younger legs out there. We are trying to buy experience but youthful experience. "We want to see players who have a proven record of scoring goals, people who take on players and go past them, people with movement because we need to add speed to our team. "We hope, by bringing in slightly younger players, we will also get a bit more from the players we've got. We're going to have two players in every position competing for every place in the team."
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West Ham confirm exit of Joe Cole on released list
Last Updated: 23/05/14 6:40pm
SSN
Joe Cole, George McCartney and Jack Collison have been included on West Ham's list of released players. Cole started his career at the east London club and returned for a second spell in January 2013, but failed to claim a regular starting role. Fellow midfielder Collison also came through the academy ranks, making his debut in 2007, although his first-team opportunities were restricted by a persistent knee problem. The Welshman was loaned out to Wigan last season and manager Sam Allardyce has allowed him to find regular football elsewhere. McCartney, an experienced full-back, rejoined the club on a free transfer in the summer of 2012 and supplied cover at centre-back last season. The 33-year-old, who had an early spell with West Ham, will cut his ties with the team when his contract expires. Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are still discussing possible deals, while the club has exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. Young duo Callum Driver and Jordan Spence will also be released, as will scholars Dymon Labonne, Rob Girdlestone, Thomas Gogo, Gines Guzman Rosique, Courtney Homans, Taylor Miles and Frazer Shaw.
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DIRECTOR OF RECRUITMENT WANTED
By Sean Whetstone 23 May 2014 at 08:06
West Ham Till I Die
In his first words since the end of the season Sam Allardyce has outlined his interpretation of the chairman's statement & plans for next season reveals his thoughts on recruiting a new director of recruitment together with an attacking coach..
Speaking on WHUFC.com
"First of all, I want to say I am happy and proud to continue for another season as West Ham manager, I have had good, fruitful meetings with my employers and we are all in agreement that we want to move this great Club forward in a united way.To that end we – the Board, the staff, the players – are unified in wanting to create an exciting team for next season, one that is going to be better than last season.We want to try and achieve at least what we did in the first year back in the Barclays Premier League, which was a top-ten finish. With a challenging season that saw West Ham overcome injuries, suspensions and agonising defeats to finish in 13th place now over, the manager is now fully focused on bringing new talent to the Club. We're already doing everything we can to improve and increase the playing squad and we're hoping to make signings as quickly as we can. I sat down with the owners and Karren Brady to discuss many things and the outcome of that meeting is that we are all moving forward in a very positive manner. Things have been resolved satisfactorily on both sides – and we now look forward to a productive summer and hopefully a very successful season."
On the subject of a new Director of recruitment and an attacking coach Sam said:
"I'm enthusiastic about that idea. We all agreed that whoever comes in has to be qualified and of the right type to supplement our already highly qualified backroom staff, in whom I have complete confidence. The appointment is absolutely down to me and the challenge is to find the right person to help us score more goals next season, because that is what we need to do.Regarding the plan to appoint a director of recruitment, I would say there is always the need to expand that section of an ambitious football club. We need to compete in that area globally and being in charge of recruitment is a very specialised position these days.There is no-one more disappointed than me when we don't play well,style of play is crucial, but it is also important that players realise their capabilities and play to them on a consistent basis.What we are striving for is the players playing well, as they did in the final home game of the season against Tottenham – a club who had spent many more millions of pounds than us – but not for one game, but consistently. We will all be striving hard to achieve that consistency when we resume training and if we can regularly find that standard, then I am sure the supporters will be as happy as I will.There were too many performances last season that didn't measure up to the expectations we all have. There were times when there were valid reasons why we fell short and other occasions, particularly towards the end of the season, when the performance was decent but we didn't win the game."
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WHUFC.com
Mark Noble was delighted to win the respect of his West Ham United squad-mates in 2013/14
23.05.2014
Mark Noble enjoyed a fruitful Player Awards, gaining recognition both from the supporters to land the Hammer of the Year gong, and his own team-mates to be named Players' Player of the Year. The No16 was justifiably proud of his trophy haul from a season which brought success on a personal level. Noble, who has come through to Academy to make his mark on the Hammers' first team, was a model of consistency in the middle of the park, and he was thrilled that his fellow players had picked him out as the top performer. "It's an amazing feeling to win the Players' Player of the Year Award," he admitted. "All the hard work has paid off and winning the Hammer of the Year is an amazing achievement, but it's special to get the award from your own team-mates too. "It was a bit emotional listening to the messages from the players, because you don't get gestures like that from each other in training! "To get that from your team-mates, talking like that about you, is overwhelming."
Noble started all 38 league games in 2013/14 and the No16 says that, following the team's climb away from danger, it was a year he'll look back on as a successful one. He added: "I was proud to start in every single Premier League game this season, I got close last year before I got a shoulder injury, but I did it this year and I was chuffed with the awards. "It was a lovely evening at the Player Awards - it always is, we get well looked after and the lads thoroughly enjoyed it."
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Bellamy pays tribute to Hammers
WHUFC.com
Craig Bellamy had kind words for West Ham United on announcing his retirement from professional football
23.05.2014
Former West Ham United favourite Craig Bellamy has paid tribute to the Hammers on his retirement from the professional game. Bellamy, 34, has called time on a long and distinguished career that included 73 International caps for Wales and spells at Norwich City, Coventry City, Newcastle United, Celtic, Blackburn Rovers, Liverpool, Manchester City, Cardiff City and, of course, West Ham. Bellamy joined the Hammers in July 2007 for a then-record transfer fee, scoring his first two goals for the Club in a League Cup victory against Bristol Rovers the following month. He went on to make 26 appearances in all competitions, scoring nine goals before moving to Man City in January 2009. An all-action, skilful and whole-hearted player was held in high regard by the Boleyn Ground faithful, with supporters sharing fond memories of his best moments on the Club's social media forums, including a 4-1 win at Portsmouth on Boxing Day 2008 when he bagged twice and a standout goal against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge earlier the same month. The Cardiff-born forward only had kind words for West Ham and its fans when reflecting on his career. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Wales Online, Bellamy said: "I've been privileged to play at some truly top clubs, next to brilliant team-mates, excellent managers. People I'm honoured to be able to say were my colleagues. "People know about Liverpool, Man City, Newcastle, Celtic, Cardiff, but don't forget West Ham. Only on going there did I realise just what a massive club they are. To Londoners, West Ham are very much THE club." A fantastic attacking talent who gave everything he had on the pitch for club and country, everyone at West Ham United wishes Craig every success and happiness in his retirement.
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Retained List published
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have issued the Club's Retained List of players at the end of the 2013/14 season
23.05.2014
West Ham United have issued the Club's Retained List of players at the end of the 2013/14 season. The Hammers can confirm that Joe Cole, George McCartney and Jack Collison will be given free transfers when their contracts expire on 30 June. West Ham United would like to thank Joe, George and Jack for their considerable efforts and contribution to the success of the Club in recent seasons and wish them well in their future careers. Discussions with goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are ongoing over new contracts, while the Club has exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. Second-year scholars Kieran Bywater, Josh Cullen, Jamie Harney, Moses Makasi, Nathan Mavila, Amos Nasha and Lewis Page have agreed their first professional deals, while Ben Marlow and Taylor Tombides have had their scholarships extended to a third year. Young professionals Callum Driver and Jordan Spence will also be released this summer, as will scholars Dymon Labonne, Rob Girdlestone, Thomas Gogo, Gines Guzman Rosique, Courtney Homans, Taylor Miles and Frazer Shaw. The Club would like to thank all the departing players for their efforts and wish them well in their future careers.
*Keep an eye on whufc.com for more from Joe Cole and Jack Collison.
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Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Ben Shephard blogs about playing at the Boleyn Ground and hosting this year's Player Awards
22.05.2014
Hi everyone,
With the season over, I was lucky enough to play at the Boleyn Ground recently when I played for Alan Devonshire's West Ham team against a number of invited sides that decided they fancied taking on some of the legends from West Ham's past. When you come down regularly to Upton Park and you have been for years now to watch your team play, you always imagine what it's like to play here. It's always real thrill to pull on your boots and get out there. Fortunately there's no one really here to see how appalling the football is, apart from some of the old boys and a few of the youngsters who are pretty good. It's an absolute thrill to be here and put your boots on and smash one in the back of the net as well. I also enjoyed another year of hosting the Club's Player Awards, which is always a great night. It's a great way to get to end of the season and think you know what, we're still in the Premier League, we've had some great results, we beat Spurs three times and it's not often you get to say that. We made a point of saying that over and over again and enjoying it. It's a brilliant night, the players mix with the fans that have come down and it's a chance for them to talk about the season and start planning for the new season as well, which I think is one of the really key things. It's been a difficult season as fans, but you look at the positives. We finished brilliantly against Spurs and we had that great run in the middle of the season which got us safe and if we think about next season now I think it's quite exciting what we can achieve. All the winners at the Player Awards were worthy winners. Mark Noble is just a legend around here having grown up just around the corner he's West Ham through and through. I think I said on the night that he's the pride of east London.
It's great to be around him and the Club runs through his veins, so he was a worthy Hammer of the Year. Adrian just cleaned up left, right and centre and what a fantastic guy! I tried to speak to him in English, but his English isn't great at the moment, but if you think about how he's commanded that area brilliantly all season it's remarkable. He needs to work on his cockney though; there wasn't enough apples and pears for me, but a brilliant selfie which was a lovely touch.
You can tell he's really enjoyed this season which is great as a West Ham fan because you just want to know that players love pulling on the West Ham shirt. You want to know that every time they go out they're going to give it their all and Mark and Adrian are examples of players who did just that last season.
I get another chance to pull on my boots next month when I'll be playing under the guidance of Sam Allardyce - something I enjoy as I've never lost when Big Sam has managed us in Soccer Aid. He put me on man-marking Clarence Seedorf last time which was an interesting experience. Seedorf didn't like it much because, if anyone's seen me play football, I play a little bit like a rugby player and Seedorf didn't like that.
We're up against Jose Mourinho, he's the Rest of the World's manager this year, so I know that Sam and Jose are going to lock horns again. The tactical battle's going to be pretty immense I reckon. Jose's going to be up to his old tricks and Sam will love every minute of it. It's a great, great experience and I think over the years we've raised £12 million for UNICEF and it's a great excuse for us to go and pretend to be professional footballers for a couple of days.
Tune in if you can to support a great cause!
COYI!
Ben Shephard
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West Ham United: Joe Cole, Jack Collison and George McCartney released
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United have released former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole, whose contract expires on 30 June. The 32-year-old made 25 appearances for the Hammers this season after joining the club for a second spell on an 18-month contract in January 2013. The Londoners have also released defender George McCartney and midfielder Jack Collison. Contract discussions with goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are ongoing. Meanwhile, the Hammers have exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. West Ham said on their website: "We would like to thank Joe, George and Jack for their considerable efforts and contribution to the success of the club in recent seasons and wish them well in their future careers." West Ham manager Sam Allardyce will stay in charge this season but the board have insisted on the recruitment of a new attacking coach "to ensure the team provides more entertainment next season". A product of West Ham's youth academy, Cole signed professional terms in 1998 and helped the Hammers win the FA Youth Cup the following year. During his first spell at Upton Park, he played alongside the likes of Paolo Di Canio, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick and Jermain Defoe, but he moved across London to Chelsea when the club was relegated. Cole, who has been capped 56 times by England, won three Premier League titles and the FA Cup twice in a seven-year stay with the Blues. After failing to agree a new contract he moved to Liverpool but he struggled to impress at Anfield and spent 2011-12 on loan at French club Lille.
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West Ham close in on €5m teenage forward
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
A deal to bring young French forward M'Baye Niang to West Ham United has been agreed, according to reports. Just 19, Niang has been made surplus to requirements by current club Milan who shipped him out on loan to Ligue 1 club Montpellier for the duration of the 2013/14 season. According to reports emanating from Italy tonight, Niang - who scored four goals in 19 appearances for La Paillade - will join West Ham initially on loan (for a €300,000 fee) with view to a €5million deal next summer. It should however be stressed that personal terms are yet to be agreed. Meanwhile Sport Bladet are reporting that West Ham are considering a move for Sunderland's Swedish midfielder Sebastien Larsson and his international team mate, Martin Olsson of Norwich. Larsson, 28, is out of contract at the Stadium of Light this summer whilst Olsson is understood to be keen to leave Carrow Road following the Canaries' relegation from the Premier League.
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Jack Collison leaves West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
Jack Collison is one of the higher-profile names not to be offered a new contract by West Ham this summer. Midfielder Collison, whose career at the club has been blighted by injury in recent years will leave West Ham next month after nine years at the club having failed to be offered a new deal. The 25-year-old, who first came to West Ham in 2005 as a result of Cambridge United's youth Academy closing made his debut for West Ham on New Year's Day 2008 in a 2-0 defeat at Arsenal. He went on to make 121 appearances for West Ham and played a major part in the club's promotion from the Championship in 2011/12 by scoring both goals in the 2-0 win at Cardiff in the first leg of the play-off semi final. Also departing at the end of their current contracts are Joe Cole and George McCartney, both of whom returned to West Ham for a second spell with the club. Cole started his career with West Ham before joining Chelsea in a cut-price £6million deal as part of the club's 'fire sale' following relegation in 2003. He returned to the club in 2013 on a free transfer. Northern-Irish international McCartney joined the club in 2006 when moving from Sunderland in exchange for full back Clive Clarke and £600,000. Two years later he was sold back to the Black Cats for an undisclosed fee widely thought to be worth around £8million. After spending a year back at West Ham on loan during the 2011/12 Championship season, McCartney returned to West Ham on a permanent basis. There is however better news for Danny Potts, who has landed an extended deal whilst veteran goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and 32-year-old midfielder Matt Taylor are reported to be negotiating new contracts.
See below for details of all players retained and released below.
Retained
First Team Squad: Dan Potts (Jussi Jaaskelainen and Matt Taylor tbc).
First Year Pros: Kieran Bywater; Josh Cullen; Jamie Harney; Moses Makasi; Nathan Mavila; Amos Nasha; Lewis Page.
Third-Year Scholarships: Ben Marlow; Taylor Tombides.
Released
First Team Squad: Joe Cole; Jack Collison; George McCartney.
Other Pros: Callum Driver; Jordan Spence.
Scholarships: Dymon Labonne; Rob Girdlestone; Thomas Gogo; Gines Guzman Rosique; Courtney Homans; Taylor Miles; Frazer Shaw.
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Sullivan seeking European football
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 23rd May 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan may have told Sam Allardyce that it's top ten or bust next season - but according to reports today, it's a European spot that he's actually aiming for. The current manager was told earlier this week that his job was safe, albeit with a new brief for the 2014/15 season. West Ham announced via their website that Allardyce had been instructed to deliver a top ten finish - although Sullivan, speaking to the Evening Standard this morning has set his sights even higher. "I don't want to just aim for top 10," he said. "We should be aiming for top six. I want to be looking down the table, not up it next season. We start next season with three competitions, two of which we can win." And in order to achieve that particularly difficult aim, Sullivan - speaking less than a fortnight before the season ticket renewal deadline - added that he is looking to introduce around half-a-dozen players to Allardyce's first team squad during pre-season.
"Most are young players," he revealed. "The youngest is 19 but has already played top-level football in two countries, while the oldest is 27. "I can't say more than that as you genuinely risk losing the deals. I know people think we just say these things but we are working day and night and I want to make sure we get as many of our targets as possible. "Of course, we won't get them all because it is tough out there but I can say we will definitely have younger legs out there. We are trying to buy experience but youthful experience. "We want to see players who have a proven record of scoring goals, people who take on players and go past them, people with movement because we need to add speed to our team. "We hope, by bringing in slightly younger players, we will also get a bit more from the players we've got. We're going to have two players in every position competing for every place in the team."
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West Ham confirm exit of Joe Cole on released list
Last Updated: 23/05/14 6:40pm
SSN
Joe Cole, George McCartney and Jack Collison have been included on West Ham's list of released players. Cole started his career at the east London club and returned for a second spell in January 2013, but failed to claim a regular starting role. Fellow midfielder Collison also came through the academy ranks, making his debut in 2007, although his first-team opportunities were restricted by a persistent knee problem. The Welshman was loaned out to Wigan last season and manager Sam Allardyce has allowed him to find regular football elsewhere. McCartney, an experienced full-back, rejoined the club on a free transfer in the summer of 2012 and supplied cover at centre-back last season. The 33-year-old, who had an early spell with West Ham, will cut his ties with the team when his contract expires. Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen and midfielder Matt Taylor are still discussing possible deals, while the club has exercised an option to extend the contract of defender Dan Potts. Young duo Callum Driver and Jordan Spence will also be released, as will scholars Dymon Labonne, Rob Girdlestone, Thomas Gogo, Gines Guzman Rosique, Courtney Homans, Taylor Miles and Frazer Shaw.
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DIRECTOR OF RECRUITMENT WANTED
By Sean Whetstone 23 May 2014 at 08:06
West Ham Till I Die
In his first words since the end of the season Sam Allardyce has outlined his interpretation of the chairman's statement & plans for next season reveals his thoughts on recruiting a new director of recruitment together with an attacking coach..
Speaking on WHUFC.com
"First of all, I want to say I am happy and proud to continue for another season as West Ham manager, I have had good, fruitful meetings with my employers and we are all in agreement that we want to move this great Club forward in a united way.To that end we – the Board, the staff, the players – are unified in wanting to create an exciting team for next season, one that is going to be better than last season.We want to try and achieve at least what we did in the first year back in the Barclays Premier League, which was a top-ten finish. With a challenging season that saw West Ham overcome injuries, suspensions and agonising defeats to finish in 13th place now over, the manager is now fully focused on bringing new talent to the Club. We're already doing everything we can to improve and increase the playing squad and we're hoping to make signings as quickly as we can. I sat down with the owners and Karren Brady to discuss many things and the outcome of that meeting is that we are all moving forward in a very positive manner. Things have been resolved satisfactorily on both sides – and we now look forward to a productive summer and hopefully a very successful season."
On the subject of a new Director of recruitment and an attacking coach Sam said:
"I'm enthusiastic about that idea. We all agreed that whoever comes in has to be qualified and of the right type to supplement our already highly qualified backroom staff, in whom I have complete confidence. The appointment is absolutely down to me and the challenge is to find the right person to help us score more goals next season, because that is what we need to do.Regarding the plan to appoint a director of recruitment, I would say there is always the need to expand that section of an ambitious football club. We need to compete in that area globally and being in charge of recruitment is a very specialised position these days.There is no-one more disappointed than me when we don't play well,style of play is crucial, but it is also important that players realise their capabilities and play to them on a consistent basis.What we are striving for is the players playing well, as they did in the final home game of the season against Tottenham – a club who had spent many more millions of pounds than us – but not for one game, but consistently. We will all be striving hard to achieve that consistency when we resume training and if we can regularly find that standard, then I am sure the supporters will be as happy as I will.There were too many performances last season that didn't measure up to the expectations we all have. There were times when there were valid reasons why we fell short and other occasions, particularly towards the end of the season, when the performance was decent but we didn't win the game."
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