Big Sam rues late leveller
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was frustrated to see Romelu Lukaku cancel out James Collins'
goal at Everton
06.01.2015
Sam Allardyce was left to rue an opportunity missed after Romelu Lukaku's
stoppage time leveller denied West Ham United an FA Cup third round victory
at Everton on Tuesday. The Hammers looked bound for the fourth round when
James Collins headed them into a 55th minute lead, but they could not hold
out and were punished at the death. It means the teams have it all to do
again at the Boleyn Ground next Tuesday and Allardyce felt his team's
performance merited victory at the first time of asking, up until they
dropped off at the end.
"We did think we were there," he said, "When you get so close and get to
injury time, all you have to do is make sure you keep your composure, I
think we lost a little bit of it just at that final minute. "There was a bit
of luck in it getting through so many bodies to Lukaku, but we should have
done better before that and made sure we didn't get into that position.
"It's a great shame after such a good performance and being 1-0 up but we'll
have to try and finish the job at Upton Park now. "It was a very good
performance. Away from home, and when it's the FA Cup, you know that Everton
are going to throw caution to the wind, because if they don't do anything
from an attacking point of view they're out of the competition. "They threw
plenty of players forward and what we didn't do towards the end was when we
broke out, we didn't relieve the pressure and kept giving the ball away. "We
didn't get the ball back into Everton's half and make them even more
desperate. We didn't retain the ball well enough in that period - that led
to more pressure and in the end we cracked. "Overall, the performance was
excellent, the result was disappointing when you get so close and that man
Lukaku, every time he plays against us he scores. No matter how well we
marshal him, he always seems to pop up somewhere with a goal, which is a
great shame for tonight, but we're still in the hat."
Allardyce felt a golden opportunity for Enner Valencia just after Collins'
opener could have killed the tie in the Hammers' favour.
He added: "We were well worthy of the lead and the disappointing thing was
that Enner didn't score at that crucial point. At this level of football,
when you get that golden chance you can't afford to miss it. "At 2-0 that
kills Everton's spirit. At 1-0 and going out of the competition they're
going to throw men forward, so if we had got that two-goal cushion we would
be sat here through to the next round, but because we didn't and because we
slipped up a little defensively [it's a replay]."
West Ham forced 15 corners on the night and made their breakthrough from
one, as Morgan Amalfitano delivered for Collins. Big Sam explained: "We were
asking for more quality in the box and when you get the quality you get the
chances. Ginge has made a very good run and scored a good header. "We caused
them quite a few problems all night with the corners and finally got what we
deserved, which was a goal. "Everybody gave it everything they've got and
more but didn't quite get the result we expected in the end."
The Hammers now face a replay in seven days time and Allardyce says that
will test his squad further. He said: "We've got a difficult task now
because we've got to play another Cup game before we play a Premier League
game. We've only got a few days to recover for Swansea and now we'll play
again on Tuesday with only a few days to recover for the next game. "It will
be tough on the lads, especially with the shortage of the squad now.
Hopefully Andy will be back by the weekend, but lads have just got to dig in
now and pick up more points, before hopefully beating Everton and getting
through to the next round."
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Farewell Boleyn plans taking shape
WHUFC.com
The Club have issued an update on their plans for the final season at the
Boleyn Ground
07.01.2015
The 2015/16 season will be one that lives long in the memory of West Ham
United fans the world over, as the Club bids an emotional farewell to their
home of more than 110 years.
This August, the Hammers will kick-off their final season at the Boleyn
Ground before they move to the new Stadium and plans to make sure of a
fitting farewell are gathering pace.
The Club have already begun reaching out to fans to ask for your favourite
memories of your time at the Boleyn Ground and the resulting feedback will
help shape the commemorations at key fixtures next season. Memorable
matches, legendary players and some of the main figures who helped make the
Boleyn Ground what it is today will all feature during what promises to be
an unforgettable 19 games for the Claret and Blue Army.
Season Tickets
There is expected to be unprecedented demand for Season Tickets next season
and several thousand fans have already joined the waiting list for new
applications once the renewal process is over. Any supporter who wishes to
be a part of the final season celebrations and is not a current Season
Ticket Holder or Half-Season Ticket Holder and has not yet joined the
waiting list is urged to do so as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Due to expected record numbers of Season Tickets for 2015/16 and the
extended period that will be required to move fans to the new Stadium, the
Club are bringing forward the renewal window for Season Ticket Holders.
From Monday 16 February to 5pm on 17 April 2015, current Season Ticket
Holders can secure their place for the 2015/16 season by either placing a
£75 non-refundable deposit or paying for their seat in full. Please note
that any supporter wanting to renew must meet the early renewal period
deadline or they run the risk of losing their seat for the final season.
To ensure supporters are not adversely affected by the early renewal
process, the deadline for paying any remaining balance on their purchase
will be consistent with previous seasons - 4pm on 31 May 2015.
Commenting on the final season plans, Joint-Chairmen David Sullivan and
David Gold said: "A 2015/16 Season Ticket is the only way supporters can
make sure of their place in history by attending every match of our final
year at the Boleyn Ground, including the last-ever game at our home of more
than 110 years.
"The level of interest in Season Tickets has been phenomenal and we expect
to hit our cap before the start of the season. This, in turn, will mean
there will be far less tickets available to supporters on a match-by-match
basis.
"It is clear that our final year at the Boleyn Ground and our first year at
the new Stadium will be two seasons that no West Ham fan will want to miss.
It is in response to that demand - and the pressures of managing it - that
we are beginning next season's renewals and sales process earlier than
normal.
"As long-standing advocates of making football more affordable, we are
pleased to confirm that we will be freezing Under-10s and Under-16s Season
Ticket prices for a second consecutive year. With prices starting at just
£110 for Under-10s and £235 for Under-16s, we are hoping as many young
Hammers as possible can be part of what is sure to be an exciting and
emotional 19 games."
Vice-Chairman Karren Brady added: "Since 2010, our commitment to the fans
has been to restore the Club's long-term financial health, while at the same
time investing substantially in improving the playing squad.
"The nine signings we made last summer have all made a big impact and we are
planning significant further investment in the playing staff this summer.
"We are also improving the financial situation at the Club and are on course
to meet our target of being clear of external debt by the time we move to
our stunning new home on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. "After last year's
price freeze across the board, I am pleased we have been able to once again
freeze prices for junior supporters. For everyone else we have capped the
increase to all tickets at five per cent, the equivalent of just £1.58 per
game for price band 4 or £2.37 per game for price band 1.
"Over the past five years, the increase in the price of a renewed Season
Ticket at the Boleyn Ground has tracked at approximately 40 per cent below
the rate of inflation (RPI), meaning a Season Ticket still represents
fantastic value for money. "The 2015/16 season will be a stand-out year in
the history of our great Club and, working with the manager, we will make
sure we have a team that will do West Ham United and the Boleyn Ground
proud."
A West Ham United Season Ticket will continue to be the cheapest way to
watch every home game. Crucially, all 2015/16 Season Ticket Holders will
also receive priority status when it comes to selecting seats at the new
Stadium, with the opportunity to choose their seats using the cutting edge
'virtual venue' technology employed at our dedicated Reservation Centre in
Westfield Stratford City.
The prices for Season Tickets in the new Stadium will be announced in April,
but the Club can confirm that prices will be comparable to those in the
final season at the Boleyn Ground. Information for all existing Season
Ticket Holders, including supporters who have purchased a Half-Season Ticket
during the 2014/15 season:
- To secure your seat for the final season, you will need to renew by 5pm on
17 April 2015. This can be done either by paying a £75 non-refundable
deposit or paying in full.
- If you choose to secure your seat by paying a deposit, you will need to
pay the full amount for your 2015/16 Season Ticket by 4pm on 31 May 2015. If
you do not pay the remaining amount before the deadline, you will risk
losing your seat for the 2015/16 season and your priority for the move to
the new Stadium.
- Every Season Ticket Holder will receive a renewal pack by post, as well as
reminders online and by email.
- As normal, each existing Season Ticket Holder will have the opportunity to
apply for two additional Season Tickets for the 2015/16 season (subject to
demand).
Information for supporters who want to buy a 2015/16 Season Ticket:
- After 17 April, any remaining Season Ticket seats that have not been
purchased by existing Season Ticket Holders under the above process will go
on sale to supporters on the Season Ticket waiting list.
- With this in mind, we strongly advise any supporters who are interested in
buying a 2015/16 Season Ticket, who are not current Season Ticket holders,
to join the waiting list now.
For more information and any queries on Season Ticket renewals and sales,
please consult the FAQs below. Alternatively, visit the website here, call
0871 529 1966 and select option three between 9am-5pm (calls cost 10p per
minute plus network extras), or visit the Stadium Ticket Office in person,
situated in the Alpari Stand at the Boleyn Ground.
FAQs:
Why is the renewals process happening earlier this year?
The Club are dealing with two special factors next season: unprecedented
demand from supporters for tickets for the final season at the Boleyn
Ground; and co-ordinating the move of every Season Ticket Holder and
Corporate Member to the new Stadium. This includes scheduling individual
appointments for them to choose their seats.
This is a carefully timetabled process where every week that passes will be
important to deal with demand.
In order to help our Season Ticket Holders to plan around this earlier
renewal deadline, we have set up a mechanism giving supporters the option to
secure their seats with the payment of a £75 deposit.
What happens if I don't pay my deposit in April but do pay the full ticket
price by the end of May?
In order to secure your renewed Season Ticket you must pay either the £75
non-refundable deposit or the full amount by 5pm on 17 April 2015.
What if I want to pay the whole amount in full, rather than pay a deposit?
That is no problem. Provided you pay either the deposit or the full amount
before 17 April, your ticket will be secure, and your priority placing for
the move to the new Stadium will be unaffected.
When will the process and pricing for seasonal corporate packages be
released?
Details of the seasonal corporate packages available for the final season at
the Boleyn Ground will be announced in February 2015.
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Song calls time on Cameroon
WHUFC.com
Alex Song has retired from international duty with Cameroon
06.01.2015
Alex Song has announced that he has retired from international duty with
Cameroon with immediate effect. The on-loan West Ham United midfielder made
the announcement on social media on Tuesday evening in a move that will see
him miss the upcoming African Cup of Nations in Equatorial Guinea. Song
cited the main reason for the decision as his ambition to rebuild his club
career with the Hammers.
In a statement, Song said: 'Since the World Cup in the summer and my
subsequent exclusion from the Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations
I have taken the decision to retire from international football. "It its
true there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for this
tournament but I feel after a lot of careful thought and numerous
discussions with my family this is the right decision. "My love for my
country will never change but I want to take time to focus purely on
domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West Ham United. I wish
Cameroon all the best and the team will always be in my heart."
Song's last game for Camroon came in the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil, when
he was sent off against Croatia. In total, the 27-year-old played 47 games
for The Indomitable Lions after making his debut in 2005.
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The Big Interview - James Collins
WHUFC.com
Goalscorer James Collins reflects on a frustrating FA Cup third-round draw
at Everton
06.01.2015
James Collins insists West Ham United's FA Cup dream is still very much
alive following Tuesday's 1-1 third-round draw at Everton. The centre-back
produced an outstanding individual display at Goodison Park, scoring the
tie's opening goal on 56 minutes and defending heroically for the entire
game. Unfortunately for the Wales international and his Hammers teammates,
Romelu Lukaku's added-time equaliser means the two sides will have to do it
all again at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday 13 January.
Ginge, having scored and defended so well for so long going into
injury-time, it must have been doubly disappointing to concede late on?
JC: "Yes, as you say we don't concede many late goals, so it was very
disappointing to give the goal away. Conceding is disappointing at any time,
so to do it in injury-time in the FA Cup knowing we'll have to play another
game now is even more disappointing. We played very well and everyone was on
form and we were unlucky not to have the game won before added-time, but
that's the FA Cup for you. We are very disappointed, but we're still in the
hat."
It's easy to feel deflated after conceding a late equaliser, but presumably
you would have taken a draw before the tie kicked-off?
JC: "Maybe, but it was disappointing with the way the game panned out in the
end. We'll take them back to Upton Park and with our fan behind us I'm sure
we'll beat them there. It'll be a tough game, as it was against them at
Goodison Park in the league too. They're under a bit of pressure at the
minute, so I'm sure they'll bring the fight to Upton Park."
Talk us through the goal, please…
JC: "I have been making that run for about two years now, to be honest with
you! It was a great ball in from Morgan Amalfitano and I managed to get my
bald head on it and it skidded into the goal. We knew they conceded from set
plays and I hadn't scored for a while, so I fancied one, to be honest!"
It's important that we don't let our four-game winless run affect the
confidence we have shown all season long, isn't it?
JC: "Yes, because we played well at Everton, against West Bromwich Albion
and also in the second half against Arsenal, too, when the Gaffer said we
had 100 passes more than them. It was one of those tough games, as it was
against Chelsea and against West Brom. We will go again at Swansea on
Saturday, and they've got a couple of lads out, too. We're seventh in the
league and still in the FA Cup, so it's all to play for."
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Goals galore for Gordon
WHUFC.com
Jaanai Gordon has been scoring goals for fun during his loan spell at
Chelmsford City
07.01.2015
Chelmsford City fans were united as one with their message to Jaanai Gordon
as he left Melbourne Stadium on Saturday - 'Please stay for the rest of the
season!'. The on-loan West Ham United striker has been in outstanding form
since joining the Clarets just before Christmas, scoring in each of his four
Vanarama South appearances for the Essex club. Three of those four
appearances have ended in victories for City, including two outstanding
individual goals and two assists in a 6-2 thrashing of Farnborough on 3
January - all under the watchful eye of Ambassador Tony Carr MBE and U18s
assistant manager Mark Phillips. Speaking to whufc.com after the game, the
forward, who turned 19 in early December, is thoroughly enjoying his
football after returning from a series of niggling injuries that disrupted
the early part of his season. "It's been a good spell since I came to
Chelmsford and scoring two goals and winning on Saturday was a good start to
the New Year as well, so I just hope to get more in the games to come," he
said, with a broad smile stretched across his face.
"It's all going well and I'm scoring all different types of goals, too - a
couple of headers, a tap-in and a couple of individual runs and finishes
against Farnborough. "The move came about out of the blue, to be honest.
Chelmsford wanted me and I wanted to get a few games under my belt over
Christmas and the New Year. I already knew a couple of the lads here too,
which made it much easier to settle in quickly. It's so enjoyable playing
first-team football, with the fans behind you giving you that extra push."
Gordon joined West Ham from Peterborough United in January 2014, having made
his Championship debut for the Posh as a 16-year-old in September 2012. A
year after moving to east London, the likeable frontman is hoping to make
good on the potential he showed during his formative years at London Road.
"When I first came down I found the football a bit different than at West
Ham, but now I've been here for a period of time, I've got to know the lads,
they know me and the team move the ball quite nicely. "Chelmsford have only
got a couple of games between now and the end of my loan spell, so the plan
is for me to get as many goals as I can in those games! After that, I'd have
to see what the Club has in mind for me, because they might want me to go on
loan to another club in a higher division for an even greater challenge.
"Overall, I am just pleased to be back playing, as I had a groin injury and
a bruise on my shin at the start of the season, but I'm 100 per cent now and
really enjoying my football."
Gordon will hope to score for the fifth consecutive match when Chelmsford
make the trip to the Somerset coast to take on Weston-super-Mare on Saturday
10 January.
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2015 Africa Cup of Nations: Diafra Sakho ruled out for Senegal
BBC.co.uk
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho is out of Senegal's final Africa Cup of
Nations squad because of a back injury. "Sakho is not on the list of 23
players, his back problem is even preventing him from moving," Senegal coach
Alain Giresse announced. The 25-year-old had been due to arrive in Dakar on
Tuesday for Senegal medics to assess his recurring back problem. He will be
replaced by Pape Moussa Konate, 21, who plays for Sion in Switzerland.
Sakho, who has scored eight Premier League goals this season, suffered the
latest recurrence of the back injury when he had to come off against West
Bromwich Albion after scoring a goal in the 1-1 league draw on 1 January.
His manager at West Ham, Sam Allardyce, claims Sakho's injury was
"mistreated" when he was on international duty with Senegal in November.
Giresse is yet to make public his final 23-man squad list for the Nations
Cup. The squad is due to travel to Morocco on Wednesday to make final
preparations ahead of the Nations Cup in Equatorial Guinea, which kicks off
on 17 January. While in Morocco the Teranga Lions will play two friendly
matches against Gabon on 9 January and then Guinea four days later.
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Alex Song: West Ham midfielder quits Cameroon duty
BBC.co.uk
Cameroon and West Ham midfielder Alex Song has retired from international
football after his exclusion from his country's Africa Cup of Nations squad.
The Barcelona loanee, 27, will now be available for the Hammers this month
after talks with Cameroon about a late call-up broke down. He said on
Instagram: "My love for my country will never change. "I want to take time
to focus purely on domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West
Ham United."
Song has not played for his country since being sent off against Croatia in
the group stages of the 2014 World Cup. The Hammers feared they would lose
him after he flew back to his homeland to discuss the possibility of
appearing in the Nations Cup in Equatorial Guinea, which begins on 17
January. "Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from
the Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations I have taken the decision
to retire from international football," Song, who won 47 caps, said. "It is
true that there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for
this tournament but I feel after a lot of careful thought and numerous
discussions with my family this is the right decision."
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Tweet nothings
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 7th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan's eldest son has removed a series of tweets criticising West
Ham United captain Kevin Nolan from his Twitter timeline.
David Sullivan, the eldest of co-owner David's two teenage sons launched a
volley of abuse aimed directly at United's Liverpudlian captain last night
immediately following the 1-1 draw at Everton. Although the tweets have
since been removed, Sullivan Jnr - who is an Arsenal supporter - wrote: "
"How the fuck Nolan is playing about League 2 amazes me. gives us all hope.
Can we leave Nolan in Liverpool though seriously." That was followed up by
a post regarding the recently-departed Mauro Zarate, again criticising
Nolan. "Livid how sam says zarate isn't good enough to play for west ham and
nolan is somehow," he scribed.
Later in the evening, and presumably following some advice from other
quarters, Sullivan Jnr retracted his comments - although fell short of
issuing an apology to Nolan for his less-than-complementary words. "Phone
virtually crashing with the amount of mentions so tweets with the most stuff
have been taken down but I stand by my opinion that ..." read the first,
before being swiftly followed by: "Again just reiterating if anyone doesn't
like how I am handling club affairs please unfollow me I'm not going to
change."
David's younger brother Jack has also fallen foul of social media in the
past, due to his preference for revealing details regarding transfers before
the Club's own media team and also commenting on indivdual deals. Only last
week he lamented the departure of Mauro Zarate on loan to Queens Park
Rangers, which some took as an indirect swipe at manager Sam Allardyce. In
2013, he was at the centre of another Twitter storm when he canvassed
supporters regarding the potential signing of convicted rapist Ilombe Mboyo.
Many supporters have questioned the wisdom of allowing his two sons to post
on club affairs, but Sullivan Snr, speaking exclusively to KUMB back at the
start of last season insisted any criticism was uncalled for. " I think it's
unfair," he said. "One, Jack is dyslexic and his English is appalling at
times, so I do anything I can to encourage him to read and write. Secondly,
he takes a great interest in it, he loves it and I think it's nice to give
him information as to what's going on - without naming players that damages
the club. "If it's critical stuff, he does check with me. "
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Robert Green backs Mauro Zarate to fire QPR to Premier League safety
Last Updated: 07/01/15 11:54am
SSN
QPR goalkeeper Robert Green hopes on-loan West Ham striker Mauro Zarate can
score the goals his side need to stay in the Premier League.
Zarate, 27, joined Rangers on a temporary deal until the end of the season
on Tuesday, having struggled to break into the first-team at Upton Park.
Manager Harry Redknapp's side are fifth-bottom of the top division and just
two points above the relegation places, and face a tough trip to fellow
strugglers Burnley on Saturday. Speaking as a guest on Morning View, keeper
Green said: "Zarate's scored goals wherever he's been. "He's had a lot of
loan signings and I'm sure he sees this as a chance to get some playing time
and get some goals. "He adds something different to Bobby Zamora and
Charlie Austin. He's a more diminutive striker and another option for us off
the bench or from the start."
Rangers have improved their home form to pick up 11 points from a possible
15 in their last five games at Loftus Road. But they have lost all nine away
games in the Premier League this season and Burnley have recently begun to
pick up points at Turf Moor. "The game with Burnley is huge," Green said.
"We can put some breathing space between us and them below us but they can
go above us if they win.
"It's a real six-pointer and we want to buck the trend of our bad away
results this season."
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West Ham and Senegal striker Diafra Sakho to miss tournament
Last Updated: 07/01/15 3:57pm
SSN
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has been ruled out of the Africa Cup of
Nations with Moussa Konate taking his place in the Senegal squad.
Sakho was examined by Senegal team doctors on Tuesday and it was decided he
would not be fit for the tournament in Equatorial Guinea.
The 25-year-old has had a persistent back injury which flared up again on
New Year's Day when playing for the Hammers against West Brom.
He has been replaced in the Senegal squad by Moussa Konate, 21, from Swiss
club FC Sion. Senegal's squad left Dakar on Wednesday for a training camp in
Morocco, where the fitness of Southampton's Sadio Mane will also be
assessed. They have warm-up internationals against Gabon in El Jadida on
Friday and Guinea next Tuesday in Casablanca. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce
expects Sakho will be out of action for several weeks with the injury. He
said: "Sakho's got a damaged back, he's got a pinched spine. Senegal have
sent a medical team over and looked at the MRI scans with us and he will be
out for a few weeks, I think."
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David Sullivan Jr apologises for Nolan and Carroll tweets
Last Updated: 07/01/15 1:25pm
SSN
The son of West Ham co-owner David Sullivan has apologised for criticising
Kevin Nolan and Andy Carroll on social media. David Sullivan Jr posted
several messages on his Twitter account during the Hammers' 1-1 draw at
Everton in the FA Cup third round on Tuesday evening.
The messages included one expletive against West Ham club captain Nolan, who
was recalled to the side, and also questioned whether striker Carroll was in
fact out with a foot injury, the fixture having fallen on the player's
birthday. Late on Tuesday he added: "Again just reiterating if anyone
doesn't like how I am handling club affairs please unfollow me I'm not going
to change."
However, the 17-year-old has since removed some of the offending comments,
and on Wednesday morning issued a public apology. Sullivan Jr said on
Twitter: "I would like to apologise on behalf of my family and myself as I
do not think I have represented them fairly by my tweets yesterday. "They
were a moment of madness as emotions got the better of me, I am only young
but old enough to know better, there is no excuses for my actions. "I am
also sorry to Kevin Nolan, who doesn't particularly deserve my comments. I
hope everyone will forgive me and this sort of situation will not happen
again. Thank you for your understanding COYI."
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ZARATE PROFIT
By Sean Whetstone 7 Jan 2015 at 16:10
West Ham Till I Die
The completion of a six month loan deal for Mauro Zarate to QPR yesterday
was a good financial deal for West Ham. The Hammers received loan inquiries
from more 14 clubs meaning they could charge a premium for his six month
loan. I understand QPR will pay his full £40,000 per week wages plus an
additional £500,000 loan fee. He is likely to make his debut against Burnley
in the league this weekend.
Harry Redknapp told the QPR official website: "We're really pleased to bring
Mauro in. He's a good footballer, someone with great ability who can play as
a number 10. I first saw him when he was on loan at Birmingham quite a few
years back and I actually tried to take him to Portsmouth back then.He's a
more-than capable player, he's already shown that, and hopefully he can come
in here and do well for us.Zarate, who impressed in the Premier League
during a loan spell at Birmingham City in 2008, is relishing the opportunity
to prove his worth once again in the biggest and best league in the world.
Zarate added "I am happy,I need this, I need to play and Queens Park Rangers
have given me this chance to show what I can do. The Premier League is the
best in the world at this moment. Does my style suit the Premier League?
Maybe. We will see! When I met the manager he told me he wanted to sign me
for Portsmouth before, but in that moment I went to Lazio. But now I am here
and will play for him.I will try to do different things with the ball, some
skills to make the difference for the team, for me and for the other
players. I am fit and I hope I can be involved on Saturday."
Under the terms of the loan deal, Zarate will not be eligible to feature
against West Ham when the two clubs meet in the Premier League at Loftus
Road on Saturday 25th April. Zarate joined West Ham on a free transfer after
personally buying himself out of his contract with Velez Sarsfield. He
signed a three year contract with the Hammers with an option for a further
year. Should he have a good loan spell with QPR this could increase his
transfer value with a potential sale in the summer window. Should there be a
change of West Ham manager at the end of the season he may still have a
future at West Ham.
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IS WEST HAM LOSING ITS SOUL ALREADY?
By Bobby Shovels 7 Jan 2015 at 08:51
West ham till I Die
A controversial headline, but bear with me.
Florida Hammer provided a succinct overview of "foreign ownership with
unlimited financial backing" a few days ago.
The issue is one of money versus tradition. Manchester City are a great
example of that modern footballing dilemma: their fans revel in the success
Sheikh Mansour's takeover has ensured, yet there is an uneasiness to their
jubilation. The best account of City, not just of the present but their
former glory years in the 1970s as well as their descent into darkness, is
David Conn's "Richer Than God: Manchester City, Modern Football and Growing
Up Paperback".
That book is essential reading, not just for highlighting Conn's own fear at
City's colossal change but the history of the Premier League and how money
became king; how clubs became businesses.
My headline alludes to the worry I feel about West Ham. If West Ham were to
get richer owners, we would all be concerned about how the club would
change. Moreover, how the club would look when our season tickets are passed
on to our grandchildren. Yet clubs like ours, just like City, have a
history, a sense of pride as well as an understanding of defeat. While City
fans question their rise at times, Chelsea fans never moan about Abramovich:
things were never great before; there was no famous era. Their era is now –
and fleeting.
Yet surely we are already heading into that realm of business rather than
club.
Take the new logo. Yes, overwhelming approved by the fans, according to the
club, but think about what it says and what it means. The destruction of the
Boleyn castle a symbol of us moving to the Olympic Stadium. Exciting? Of
course. Necessary? Well, I guess. The uneasiness is in accepting that in
order to be successful we need a bigger stadium we lose sight of what that
actually entails. It's not really about the fans is it? It's about the new,
rich, foreign fans. We can argue we we will never become like the others,
and have someone from abroad come in and tell us to change our shirts to red
because it's lucky in the Far East, but we are gearing ourselves up for just
that. The Olympic Stadium is about corporate seats and boxes, it's about
transport links that make it easier for the foreign businessman to fly in.
The Olympic Stadium isn't necessarily for you or I. It's for the people with
the money.
Hence the logo change. If you're West Ham through and through, you don't
need to be told you support a London club. Yet we've given in to the "global
game" and now London is on our badge. It's not on the crests of Arsenal,
Chelsea or Tottenham.
I'm aware I'm not offering alternatives. I'm also aware that we do need some
money to attract new talent and trophies. I'm a big fan, though, of Rafa
Honigstein, the Guardian journalist, who on a recent podcast lambasted
English football pundits who believe that the solution to any footballing
problem is money and a new player. The idea should be to make a team greater
than the sum of its individual players. A clever philosophy used by teams
across Europe bar in England. Here, money reigns supreme.
I'm in favour of Labour's commitment to have elected supporter
representatives on the board of all clubs – something Conn wrote as "two
fans on the board of a club, treated with respect, consulted, marching on
together with the other directors, can bring a smile to your face."
Perhaps this would allow men with wads of cash to not treat clubs as play
things and rather as long-term investments, although the very fact that
football has to be so business-orientated makes me sick. Yet I don't think
Gold and Sullivan have done anything particularly wonderful. Securing the
Olympic Stadium? Well, surely anyone could have masterminded that, given the
ground is in our backyard, a long-term athletics track was never going to
work, the idea of having Spurs move absurd and trying to find 54,000 Leyton
Orient fans ridiculous. How do you know businessmen don't make good football
chairmen when left to their own devices? Who would sack Gianfranco Zola
after two seasons and hire Avram Grant?
When we move to the Olympic Stadium, the excitement will be palpable. Yet it
may also mark the beginning of a treacherous journey. One no longer fought
on historic Green Street, but in the background of a modern shopping centre.
I welcome change, but I am wary of the future.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho OUT of African Nations Cup after 18 'warning
letters' from Hammers
Jan 07, 2015 13:46 By Neil McLeman
Senegal coach Alain Giresse has claimed the Irons said they would face 'huge
damages' if either Cheikh Kouyate or Sakho got injured at the tournament
The Mirror
Diafra Sakho has been ruled out of the African Nations Cup after Senegal
claimed they had received 18 warning letters from West Ham.
And coach Alain Giresse insisted he will not now be able to play in the
Premier League. The Frenchman announced this morning: "Sakho is not on the
list of 23 players, his back problem is even preventing him from moving."
But Giresse had earlier told L'Equipe he had received 18 letters warning
that Senegal would face huge damages if either Cheikh Kouyate or Sakho were
to be injured at the African Nations Cup. Sakho suffered his back injury
away on international duty in November and Sam Allardyce claimed he had been
"mistreated".
The Senegal coach, who had a "long telephone conversation" with the Hammers
manager, said: "He said we could come to some arrangement. That means what?
Don't pick the players. That is not possible. We both can't be satisfied at
the same time." Giresse added: "In any case, if they don't want Sakho to
come so they can then play him, they are wrong. He does not have the right."
Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has also claimed Sadio Mane's knee injury
will stop him playing in the tournament which starts in Equatorial Guinea on
January 17. But Giresse said he still intends to call him up on Sunday after
the striker has undergone more treatment in England. "We will see his
condition but he will be in the 23," he said. The Senegal squad is due to
travel to Morocco today (wed) before their first Group C match against Ghana
on January 19. West Ham's on-loan midfielder Alex Song has retired from
international football after withdrawing from the Cameroon squad.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Could 2015 be the year West Ham finally end their wait for Silverware? The
omens are good
Jan 07, 2015 17:22
OPINION BY STEVESTAMMERS
After last season's cup embarrassment this could be the year the Hammers end
a 35-year wait to win the famous old competition
The Mirror
Maybe, just maybe, this will be an FA Cup year for West Ham. Last season was
a disaster. The five goal hammering at Nottingham Forest was an
embarrassment to the club. Yes, there were extenuating circumstances – like
the battle to stay in the Premier League. With the move to the Olympic
Stadium on the horizon, a status among the elite was essential and it was
eventually secured. This season, there is no such excuse. A more than decent
start to the league campaign means that a place in Europe rather than a drop
into the Championship is a genuine target. And that meant manager Sam
Allardyce was able to field his strongest side at Goodison Park last night.
And it showed.
There was a grit about West Ham. There was a determination. There was a
complete contrast to years gone by when a West Ham team on Merseyside in
January was a defeat waiting to happen.
Adrian continues to be an inspired signing. James Collins and Winston Reid
(he will be sorely missed when he leaves) were solid and Mark Noble bossed
the midfield. And with Stewart Downing flourishing in his free role and
Enner Valencia looking more and more at home in the English game, West Ham
could and should have won. Only the predatory instincts of Romelu Lukaku
denied them a win. He was by far the most dangerous Everton player. Ross
Barkley, on the other hand, seemed to reflect the mood of a largely subdued
crowd. Occasionally he made an impact like occasionally you were aware there
was indeed a crowd in attendance. Many were disguised as empty seats. There
have been more intimidating atmospheres at a Bermondsey christening.
Only 22,236 at the stadium following the paltry 9,000 at Burnley against
Tottenham the night before and a staggering 4,000 at Cardiff last Friday
night. It may be tempting fate, but you can be confident of two 30,000 plus
crowds when the respective replays at Upton Park and White Hart Lane next
Tuesday and Wednesday. That should be enough to inspire two home wins.
Interest in the FA Cup has become as unpredictable as the results. But West
Ham are desperate for silverware after such a barren spell that goes back to
1980. That was the FA Cup win over Arsenal. And it included a win over
Everton on the way to Wembley – after a replay. Maybe the omens are good for
2015.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
David Sullivan's son apologises after mocking Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan
in Twitter rant
Jan 07, 2015 12:04 By Neil McLeman
A contrite Sullivan Jr has now removed some of the posts, promised not to
comment on future club affairs and made a full apology
The Mirror
David Sullivan's son has apologised for a "moment of madness" where he
mocked West Ham stars Kevin Nolan and Andy Carroll on Twitter.
The co-owner's son made a series of personal attacks on social media after
the FA Cup draw at Everton last night. David Sullivan Jr, on the account
@DavidSully, asked: "How the f*** Nolan is playing about League 2 amazes me.
gives us all hope. Can we leave Nolan in Liverpool though seriously." He
then added: "Livid how sam says zarate isn't good enough to play for west
ham and nolan is somehow."
Sullivan Jr also replied to a Tweet referring to Andy Carroll being out
injured on his birthday: "If anyone sees Andy Carroll out tonight and can
prove that it is tonight please send me a photo with proof it's today."
A contrite Sullivan Jr has now removed some of the posts, promised not to
comment on future club affairs and made a full apology.
He tweeted today: "I am also sorry to kevin nolan, who doesn't particularly
deserve my comments. I hope everyone will forgive me and this sort of. "They
were a moment of madness as emotions got the better of me, I am only young
but old enough to know better, there is no excuses for my actions. "I would
like to apologise on behalf of my family and myself as I do not think I have
represented them fairly by my tweets yesterday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho: "My heart is with Senegal"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Heartbroken Diafra Sakho has used Facebook to talk of his despair at missing
out on the African Nations Cup. In an emotional comment he speaks of how he
hopes that one day God will help him fulfill his dream the Afcon dream.. And
he says that whilst he is staying in England "my heart will be with my
fellow Tarranga's Lions. He adds: "May the strength and the love of all
Senegal, lift and protect you during this tournament."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR financial crisis: Aren't you glad we got Daves
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The recent published financial accounts show West Ham have made a record
turnover of nearly £115m last season with record profits of over £10m. Our
£100m plus bank debt is now funded by shareholders rather a consortium of
banks who care little of what happens on a football pitch. By contrast
one-time wanabee Hammers chairman Tony Fernandes, now at the QPR helm, seems
to go from bad to worst. Last month the Loftus Road club sent the Football
League their accounts for 2013-14, the period covered by new financial fair
play rules.
The club could be hit with a multimillion-pound fine and whilst both QPR and
the league confirmed the accounts were sent on time on 1st December neither
would discuss the financial position disclosed. The possible QPR fine is
expected because in the previous season, 2012-13, they lost £65m despite
earning Premier League income of £61m. QPR paid their staff, including
players, £78m in the year to 31st May 2013. If there losses were as high as
the previous season they could face a fine of up to £54m. The rules should
impose a fine of approximately £7m for a loss to £18m, then an extra pound
for every pound above that.
In the meantime they have paid West Ham a £500,000 loan fee for Mauro Zarate
together with his full £40,000 per week wages. It is also claimed they are
prepared to pay £60,000 per week to land former Hammer Jermain Defoe on loan
from the MLS. And on to of all this the recent tragic loss of the Air Asia
plane, could see Tony Fernandes' personal fortune in jeopardy if the
accident has a knock on effect to customer confidence. Fernandes once tried
to buy West Ham on the cheap but chairman David Sullivan branded the offer
as derisory saying "He wanted 51% of the club for two bob."
Fernandes responded at the time saying: "Make up your mind Sullivan and
Gold. One minute you say no offer then you say it's a joke. It was a good
offer with good money and brought in good people.Gold and Sullivan can say
whatever they want. I have been a lifelong fan and would have brought good
money, good ideas, new people and a new belief."
We should soon know what sanctions will be imposed on QPR but I for one know
which Chairmen I prefer to steer the financial and football fortunes of our
club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce under fire after Valencia comments
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce is coming under heavy fire from Hammers fans following the
late equaliser gifted to Everton in last night's FA Cup third round 1-1
draw. Many have quickly attacked the manager for appearing to make a
scapegoat of Enner Valencia who was singled out for criticism after
directing a header into the hands of Everton goalkeeper Joel Robles. After
four games without a win and a sloppy late equaliser the pressure again
appears to be mounting on the manager following the dramas of last season.
ClaretandHugh followers made their feelings clear on the site's facebook
forum after a blog had claimed Allardyce's public remarks were wrong.
Allardyce had said a player of his ability should have scored and, justified
or not, fans feel it would have been best left unsaid.
Fan Tom Dunn told the CandH facebook forum: "If he gave Enner more game
time maybe he wouldn't be as rusty. He would have scored that at the start
of the season when he was confident."
And another – Richard Kemp – declared: "Valencia was acting as a shield for
Downing. He kept Everton's centre backs busy and Dowwning was murdering
them. BFS just cant resist going back to his favoured style, its just in his
make up. I do not think I have ever seen worse substitutions."
Steve Elcome took to the forum to snap: " Enner is just not good enough just
like Zarate and anyone else who dares to "play" football. Let's get 11
Nolan's Sam and then you will be happy."
Les Sim joined the chorus of disapproval snarling: "The Valencia and Sakho
partnership was forced upon BFS and became our most potent strike force
since I can remember.
The fat **** split it up at his first opportunity as soon as Carroll became
available. Now he is trying to undermine Valencia in order to justify his
perversion for a big lump up front."
On Twitter @chalongcircle said: We all know you're either in Sam's clique or
not. Ask Zarate (we needed him last night). I'm sure DS knows what's going
on.
And @DjPaul Cole said: "If @davidgold and DS aren't as baffled as the fans
with Allardyce. I'd be surprised. Hopefully this will be his last season.
@poaolothehammer declared: "He's always been the same, never takes
responsibility for team selection or tactics and never blames his favourite
players."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The old Sam emerges as Valencia is blamed
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
New allardyceIt's hard to discuss West Ham's disappointing draw at Goodison
Park last night without looking at Kevin Nolan in particular and the
manager's uncalled for criticism of Enner Valencia.
To concede in the 92nd minute is – as Allardyce claimed – deeply
disappointing but frankly I can't help feeling that to blame Valencia in
particular is showing us more than a bit of the old Sam.
Did he level anything at Morgan Amalfitano when blasting over…has he ever
criticised Andy Carroll for missed chances? Answers to both questions are a
resounding No!
Allardyce has a track record of singling out individuals, officials or any
other handy excuse as a reason for failure.
And it's really not nice to see Valencia get such treatment given that he
has had few games of any consequence since the return of AC.
He was excellent against Chelsea with some fine runs to take the pressure
off an over-stressed defence before being immediately dropped for the next
match.
Had Sam criticised his captain Kevin Nolan for perhaps his worst ever
performance in a West Ham shirt it would have been a little more
understandable although unacceptable.
Public criticism is poor in any circumstances but when used as an excuse
for failure it is totally unacceptable.
Having said all of that I arrive at my verdict on last night's match. We
drew only because the defence switched off when it mattered and because the
manager adopted a safety first policy far too early!
Carlton Cole for Enner Valencia? REALLY! Defensive midfielder Diego Poyet
for an offensive one – Matt Jarvis – a massive NO! And Joey O'Brien for
Morgan Amalfatino – What?
And the 90 minute presence of Nolan who offered absolutely nothing at any
stage – OH COME ON!
The absence of Andy Carroll saw us playing some of our best and most mobile
football since earlier in the season and Mark Noble was excellent on his
return.
But the substitutions were obviously designed to help us hang on – well
that didn't work Sam did it? That – along with Nolan's 90 minute presence –
were the reasons this game was allowed to slip away.
It's now four games without a win as we head for Swansea and unless we
quickly return to the free flowing game which thrilled us at the start of
the season I believe we are heading for a very lean spell of results.
As for Nolan ? Sam Allardyce has some hard thinking to do now and a big
decision – in his terms anyway – to make!
We should be contemplating a fourth round FA Cup tie this afternoon. It's
not Enner Valencia's fault we aren't. I think I know where the blame really
lies.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Henry's miserly FC Toronto earnings
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
New Hammers signing Doneil Henry earned a basic annual salary the equal of
most Premier League performers weekly wage at around $75,000 ($87,033.33
with bonuses) whilst with FC Toronto. That is around £56,000 per year so or
just over £1,000 per week. His team mate and former Hammer Jermain Defoe
meanwhile earned $6,180,000 for the same season at Toronto. MLS wages are
published every season by the players union and it demonstrates that in
value for money terms the Hammers have picked up an ultra bargain!. Although
Henry's Irons deal is clearly worth considerably more than £56,000 per year
it still represents terrific value in a league where the average Premier
League footballer earns £35,000 per week (£1.8m per year). A source told
ClaretandHugh: "Doneil is a great prospect and serious value for money. We
think he is one for next season but could play at a push."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll/Swansea update
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Andy Carroll is fully expected to be back for the weekend clash against
Swansea City. Carroll was suffering from tiredness and a minor ankle which
is believed to be related to a knock he took in training. But a source
confirmed this morning that the big fella will be back on duty for the clash
in Wales. He said: "He'd played all over Christmas and suffered a minor
injury in training but he will be okay for Swansea. "We will check Alex Song
before the game but we are obviously hopeful he will also make the match
following his trip to Cameroon."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho surgery fears
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 7, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's Diafra Sakho may face a summer operation if he fails to fully
shake off the effects of the back injury which has sidelined him from
action. Manager Sam Allardyce has admitted the striker faces a lengthy lay
off after missing out on the African Nations Cup tournament. Allardyce said:
" "Senegal sent a medical team over and looked at the MRI scans with us. He
will be out for weeks."
The best estimate – as previously reported here – is between two and six but
the club have accepted the player has a recurring injury on his hands that
may need a summer operation. We were told by a source: "We hope that a
programme of muscle building exercises can sort the problem but the general
view seems to be that the problem is always going to be there without
surgery. "Ultimately an operation may be required but we will be doing all
we can to sort it out before going there. That could be in the summer – it's
too early to say until we see how he responds to treatment. "Fortunately he
is a quick healer and we hope that he will be back by the latest the middle
of February."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham open to Diego Poyet loan as Watford eye move for midfielder
Diego Poyet has only made four appearances for West Ham this season
West Ham are keen for him to get first-team football on loan
Watford and Huddersfield are bot interested in taking the midfielder
By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 22:31, 7 January 2015 | UPDATED: 22:31, 7 January 2015
West Ham United midfielder Diego Poyet is wanted on loan by Championship
side Watford. The 19-year-old has made four appearances since his summer
move from Charlton and came on as a substitute for Matt Jarvis in Tuesday
night's FA Cup draw with Everton at Goodison Park.
He had a loan spell with Huddersfield earlier in the season and they are
interested too. Watford, however, are fifth in the Championship, seven
points off leaders Bournemouth, and believe a couple of shrewd acquisitions
this month could give them the extra edge required to challenge for
promotion. West Ham are open to the loan as they want Poyet to keep
developing and he needs competitive games for that to happen. Watford,
meanwhile, are giving a trial to Vujadin Savic. The Serbian centre back
played just over an hour in a back three for Watford Under 21s against Leeds
United this week. They scored five first-half goals in a 6-1 victory in the
Premier League Under 21 Cup. The 24-year-old Savic has previously played for
Bordeaux and was on loan at Dynamo Dresden and Arminia Bielefeld.
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Thursday, January 8
Wednesday, January 7
Daily WHUFC News - 7th January 2015
Zarate loaned to QPR
WHUFC.com
Mauro Zarate has joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the
2014/15 season
06.01.2015
West Ham United can confirm that Mauro Zarate has joined Queens Park Rangers
on loan until the end of the 2014/15 season. The Argentine forward will link
up with Harry Redknapp's side, who currently sit 16th in the Barclays
Premier League table, and could make his Hoops debut at Burnley on Saturday.
Zarate will hope to enjoy some invaluable game-time with the R's, having
started just five league matches since his summer arrival at the Boleyn
Ground from Velez Sarsfield. In all, the 28-year-old has scored two goals in
eight appearances for West Ham, seeing his opportunities limited by the form
and presence of fellow forwards Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia, Andy Carroll
and Carlton Cole.
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Westley delighted with Dev Squad
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley was delighted with the Dev Squad's 1-0 win
over Leicester
06.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said he was pleased with his
side's efforts after they beat Leicester City 1-0 at Rush Green on Monday
night. In a tight game with few chances between either side, the Hammers
took the three points when substitute Djair Parfitt-Williams headed home
Lewis Page's corner on 84 minutes. The crucial victory keeps the Dev Squad's
hopes of avoiding relegation alive and speaking after the game, Westley
said: "It was a tough game, a bottom of the table battle from start to
finish. "I actually thought the first twenty minutes we did very well. We
created some really good opportunities, our shape of the team was very good.
The two wide men Matty Fanimo and Blair Turgott were dangerous in behind,
running past their full backs which led to some great opportunities. "I was
really pleased because with 15 minutes to go we got a second wind, a breath
of fresh air if you like. All three substitutes, Jordan Brown, Lewis Page
and Djair Parfitt-Williams made an impact and they gave us some energy. We
had more pace particularly, and I'm delighted for young Djair getting his
first goal for the U21s."
The Dev Squad's 84th minute winner was Parfitt-Williams' first for the Dev
Squad, having already netted six times for the U18s this season. "It was a
big moment for him and we need to keep pushing younger players up the age
group. He's impressed me in my time here, he needs to attack a bit quicker
but he'll learn to do that. He's training with the U21s and I'm pleased to
be able to give him an opportunity on the pitch."
The win also saw the Dev Squad secure their first clean sheet of the season,
after 14 attempts in all competitions. When asked about the defensive
performance, Westley enthused: "I think all the back players, Pottsy the
captain, Howes in goal, Sam Westley and the two Reeces were fantastic for
us. "I thought the two centre-backs were magnificent for us, they were
outstanding. Their management team couldn't believe how young they were.
Their striker Hopper has played league football but they kept battling away
and ultimately kept him quiet.
"Amos Nasha as well did superbly, he hasn't started many games this season
but he did very well today. Alongside Kieran Bywater in midfield they give
us a good basis to play off."
The win comes at an important time, with the Dev Squad facing a busy January
with five games in total. Their next game is on Friday against London rivals
Tottenham Hotspur. "We might mix the team up a bit, we've got a few bumps
and bruises from tonight. Also the window is open for loans so we'll see
about that. There were 23 clubs here tonight so we'll see if any one of them
want to take any of our players. If we think it's the right move then we'll
always consider it. Tottenham don't have a game this week so we'll have to
take that into consideration due to the physical effort these games take.
"We then play again next Wednesday away at Everton, so it's three quick
games. Tonight gives a little bit of impetus and confidence that we need to
get away from the bottom two."
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Djair delighted with winning goal
WHUFC.com
Djair Parfitt-Williams scored his first goal for the Dev Squad in 1-0 win
over Leicester City
06.01.2015
West Ham United Academy striker Djair Parfitt-Williams scored his first goal
for the Development Squad as the Hammers beat Leicester City 1-0 in a tight
encounter at Rush Green on Monday night. The 18-year-old has been in fine
form for Steve Potts' U18s this season, scoring six goals in 16 appearances
and he continued his impressive run of form with a header from a Lewis Page
corner in the 84th minute.
With the Dev Squad currently sitting bottom of the Barclays U21 Premier
League, Parfitt-Williams' goal was a crucial intervention to make sure they
do not fall further adrift. Speaking after the game, the Bermudan born goal
scorer said: "I scored my first goal for the U21s and hopefully the first of
many. I scored a header off a corner even though I'm probably one of the
shortest players on the pitch. It felt good to score. "I scored one header
before earlier this season for the U18s but this my only my second one this
season."
Having put in impressive performances for the U18s over the last 18 months,
Parfitt-Williams has played a handful of games for the Dev Squad, including
the 5-3 defeat by Bilbao Athletic. With three Dev Squad appearances to his
name this season, the exciting attacker is aiming to add to this number as
the season progresses. "Of course it's good for Jordan Brown and myself to
be getting opportunities in the U21s. We're both happy, we work well
together and hopefully that will continue. "It was a physical game and
everybody worked hard, definitely. We all put in a good shift, we kept going
until the end and we got a reward for it."
The Development Squad's next game is against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur
on Friday 9 January 2015 at Rush Green Stadium, kick off is 7pm. Admission
is FREE for all Season Ticket Holders, while general admission is just £3
and £1 for U16s.
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Alex Song will NOT go to AFCON
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce received a huge boost tonight after it was
revealed that Alex Song will not now be representing Cameroon at this
month's African Cup of Nations. Shortly after West Ham's 3rd round FA Cup
tie at Everton ended this evening (more on that soon), the Telegraph's Matt
Law revealed on Twitter that Song will be returning to West Ham imminently.
The news of Song's return is a major fillip for Allardyce, who was facing
the prospect of being without the on-loan midfielder and Senegal's Diafra
Sakho and Cheik Kouyate - both key to West Ham's revival this season - for
the next few weeks. Whilst the latter is preparing for the AFCON with his
squad, Sakho is currently receiving treatment for the back injury he
sustained against West Brom last week and it is by no means certain that he
will be fit enough to play in the tournament, which begins on 17 January.
* Keep an eye on KUMB for full details on where and when you'll be able to
see West Ham's representatives at the tournament in action.
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Alex Song: I want to rebuild my career at the Boleyn
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Alex Song has released a statement explaining his decision to retire from
international football, citing his desire to "rebuild my career at West Ham
United". The on-loan midfielder looked set to join up with the Cameroon
squad as they prepare for the forthcoming African Cup of Nations. That was
until it was revealed negotiations had reached an impasse - and that he
would be returning to West Ham immediately.
"Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from the
Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations I have taken the decision to
retire from international football," read a statement by Song. "It is true
that there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for this
tournament, but I feel after a lot of careful though and numerous
discussions with my family this is the right decision. "My love for my
country will never change but I want to take time to focus purely on
domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West Ham United. I wish
Cameroon all the best and the team will always be in my heart."
Song has featured on 14 occasions for West Ham this season, having made his
debut against Hull City in the 2-2 draw at the KC Stadium back in September.
He is contracted to West Ham until the end of the current season, when he is
scheduled to return to parent club Barcelona - although the chances of him
resurrecting his career at the Nou Camp are slim, at best.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate: I needed to leave West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate says he has to leave West Ham as he needed to play on a regular
basis. Zarate, speaking via qpr.co.uk this lunchtime (Tuesday) revealed that
his biggest incentive for leaving the Boleyn Ground was a lack of first team
football, with the likes of Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll
above him in the pecking order. "It's very difficult when you don't play,"
he said. "Last year I played every game in Argentina, so coming to West Ham
and not playing is very bad for me. So I decided to come to QPR and show
what I can do. "I need this, I need to play and Queens Park Rangers have
given me this chance to show what I can do. The Premier League is the best
in the world at this moment. Does my style suit the Premier League? Maybe.
We will see! "When I met the manager he told me he wanted to sign me for
Portsmouth, but I went to Lazio. Now I am here and I will play for him. I
will try to do different things with the ball, some skills to make the
difference for the team, for me and for the other players. " I am fit and I
hope I can be involved on Saturday."
Meanwhile Harry Redknapp, who little more than 24 hours ago gave the
impression that the deal was off, added: "We're really pleased to bring
Mauro in. He's a good footballer, someone with great ability who can play as
a number 10. "I first saw him when he was on loan at Birmingham quite a few
years back and I actually tried to take him to Portsmouth back then. He's a
more-than capable player, he's already shown that, and hopefully he can come
in here and do well for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with Italian defender
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Watford's Italian defender
Gabriele Angella, according to reports emanating from Italy.
The 25-year-old centre half has spent the last 18 months at Vicarage Road
where he has continued to impress and that, say tuttomercatoweb.com, has led
West Ham and West Brom to make tentative enquiries into the player's
availability. Angella, who began his professional career with Udinese joined
Watford on a free transfer in July 2013, since when he has made more than 50
starts for the Hornets. Only last month he was linked with a return to his
former club, who were also keen to take Angella back to Italy last summer.
One Watford fan, posting on wfcforums.com recently, said of Angella: "He's
an absolute class player. Everything he does is so effortless and assured.
He's by far the best centre back we've had in the 15 years I've followed
Watford." Whilst another added: " I think he will go on to become a stalwart
in defence of a big Italian club for years to come. It is a pleasure to
watch him play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Romelu Lukaku rescues Everton against West Ham
Last Updated: 06/01/15 10:05pm
SSN
Romelu Lukaku's injury-time equaliser denied West Ham a place in the fourth
round of FA Cup and forced a replay after their 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.
James Collins' near-post header in the 56th-minute, converting Morgan
Amalfitano's whipped delivery, looked to have settled an even tie on
Merseyside before Lukaku's late intervention. The Hammers made the brighter
start to proceedings but ultimately conceded the better chances to their
hosts in the first half. For all of their endeavour Everton squandered
numerous opportunities to level the match with Lukaku the main culprit on
several occasions in both halves to hand his side a route back into the
game. The Hammers looked destined to have booked a trip to either Doncaster
or Bristol City in the next round but Lukaku swooped in second-half stoppage
time to force a replay. The Belgian controlled Bryan Oviedo's driven cross
before firing past Adrian in the Hammers goal to ensure the sides would have
to play again next week at Upton Park.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Everton 1-1 West Ham: Under-par Toffees earn replay thanks to last-gasp
Romelu Lukaku goal
Jan 06, 2015 21:52 By David Maddock
The Irons looked to have booked their place in the Fourth Round but Roberto
Martinez's side managed to snatch a draw at the last
The Mirror
Romelu Lukaku produced a dramatic stoppage-time leveller to keep Everton's
FA Cup hopes alive. With the pressure reaching crisis point on boss Roberto
Martinez as West Ham led in the dying seconds through a James Collins header
that exposed serious Goodison fault lines, the Belgian striker pounced to
smash home an acrobatic left foot volley. It was justice for the big centre
forward too, who was the one bright note of an otherwise insipid performance
from the home side, as they were dominated for long periods by West Ham.
Collins was the latest to ruthlessly capitalise on an Everton set piece
weakness that has infected the previously indomitable Merseyside club at a
rate as surprising as it has been swift. He was completely unmarked as he
ran across the six yard box in the 56th minute to smash home a header at the
near post that embarrassed the home goalkeeper and the defenders in front of
him. With a tie against lower league opposition in the next round, the
Hammers started to dream of adding to their illustrious history in this
competition, given their form and imposing strength in recent months. But
with the referee looking at his watch after adding fur minutes of stoppage
time, the Blues launched one last desperate attack.
Bryan Oviedo broke down the left and sent in a hopeful cross that found
Lukaku for once given space by an otherwise admirable visiting defence. And
the Belgium star took one touch with his left foot before lashing in the
bouncing ball on the volley, to send the fans into raptures, and release the
pressure that had been building throughout the second half. Everton almost
had the perfect start, with the distinctly creaky Joel Robles showing why
Martinez indicated he will look for a new keeper this month in the absence
of the injured Tim Howard. He came, saw and flapped at a Stewart Downing
cross, and the Hammers would have opened their account but for a flag as
Enner Valencia strayed just offside. It is the sort of break Everton so
desperately needed – desperation being the operative word, given the frantic
nature of much of their play. Yet perhaps buoyed by that let off, they
eventually settled into this tie, inspired no doubt by their manager's
fondness for cup competition and the attention it brings. The Blues should
have been ahead by half time, with Steven Naismith heralding a better period
of play with a shot that flashed wide on 18 minutes. Before that Everton
were listless, after, they seemed much more the old Everton.
Lukaku twice raced through, showing more edge to his game than he has in the
past month, and was unlucky not to produce a goal. First, he raced away from
the defence, but saw his shot flick off a defender and fly just wide. Then
his ferocious effort stung Adrian's palms, and Naismith was close to
converting the rebound. In between, Naismith also fired across goal from a
narrow angle, and Seamus Coleman was inches away from getting on the end of
a Kevin Mirallas cross. West Ham will wonder how they survived that mini
onslaught, but it allowed them to come out after the break with the belief
that a goal would create frustration among the home support. How it did. The
Hammers, no doubt inspired by words from their manager, were more energetic,
more committed after the break, and pushed Everton back with real intent.
Their goal on 55 minutes seemed almost inevitable, with Jenkinson and
Downing denied in the minutes before, the latter's deflected shot producing
a corner that Amalfitano floated over, and James Collins headed home at the
near post. It was the sort of sloppy goal Everton have conceded too many
times this season, their marking of the big defender too slack as he ran
across the six yard box.
The Hammers almost doubled their lead soon after, Robles making a fine save
from Valencia's close-range header. But Lukaku was to have the last word,
saving the hosts' blushes in added time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce hits out at Valencia miss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was left bitterly disappointed after the
Hammers let a 1-0 lead over Everton slip in injury time and now face a
tricky FA Cup third round replay at the Boleyn. He claimed we hadn't
defender properly and of the Everton equaliser said: "The lad (Oviedo) was
incredibly lucky to get a cross in which was untouched by our defence and
that was that. It's all the more disappointing to concede so late in injury
time."
He then launched a tirade of criticism at Enner Valencia for placing a
header straight at the keeper Robles earlier in the game declaring: "You
expect someone of his ability to do better than that." He added: "But we put
in a really good team performance. I think they all played up to their
maximum but the overwhelming feeling is one of disappointment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers hit by Lukaku late leveller
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
With Andy Carroll having suffered an injury in training, manager Sam
Allardyce started with Enner Valencia up top. Morgan Amalfitano was played
in an advanced role with Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan coming in as expected.
The game settled into into a nice tempo from the start and the Irons first
chance came when Matt Jarvis clipped in a cross for Winston Reid to head
wide. Everton went straight to the other end and a Lukaku drive was spilled
by Adrian but Reid was on hand to clear before Jenkins crossed for Jarvis
who flicked goalwards but with little pace for keeper Robles collected.
Although the Irons were dominating possession, the home side looked the more
dangerous going forward and Naismith had Adrian scrambling as a 25 yard shot
flew wide. Barkley then released Lukaku but his powerful shot too flew wide.
Naismith pushed forward again but saw his shot from a tight angle fly across
the face of goal.
Everton had yet another outstanding chance when Miralles fired a wicked
cross to the far post but Coleman just failed to get a touch.
At the other end Amafitano fired over the top before Reid, who had performed
well at the heart of the Hammers defence thwarted Lukaku from close in. The
Irons started the second half with a rattle and Robles was forced to save
well when Jenkinson galloped forward and unleashed a fierce drive. But on 56
minutes the Hammers produced a clasic training ground set piece when from
Amalfitano's outswinging corner saw Collins arriving at the near post to
crash home a brilliant header. The home side responded well but for all
their forward movement and the constant Lukaku threat they could not create
a real chance. Valencia could have added to the lead when his header from
Noble's fine ball in was palmed over the top by Robles. Manager Allardyce
adopted a "what we have we hold" approach bringing on Cole for Valencia and
Poyet for Jarvis but Lukaku was to have the last word deep into four minutes
of injury time. The huge striker arrived in the box tolas him from six yards
from Oviedpo's cross after the Hammers defence had failed to clear.
West Ham Adrian 7 Jenkinson 7 Reid 8 Collins 8, Cresswell 7; Noble 7, Nolan
4, Amalfitan0 7 Downing 7 Jarvis 6 Valencia 6
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Agent: "Sam may be trying to flush out an offer"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce's very public declaration that Winston Reid may have come to a
verbal agreement – with some club or other – was today described to
ClaretandHugh as looking like "a desperate attempt to flush out an offer."
We spoke to one of the country's top agents – who wished to remain anonymous
– but said: "It seems that Sam may be hoping bring one from the clubs
reported to be interested – Arsenal, Liverpool or Manchester United…or
indeed anywhere! "It's impossible to believe the Hammers won't have heard if
there's any real interest and most inside the game who have been close to
the situation know there hasn't been an inquiry. Had there been Sam would
hardly need to talk in these terms. "Big four clubs – or indeed any Premier
League clubs – aren't into doing private verbal agreements – the money does
the talking. Things are done properly "There's a game of bluff going on and
it looks more and more likely there has been absolutely no interest as the
club has regularly suggested. All agents plant stories in the press to whip
up interest when they are struggling to get a bite! "It's January and Sam's
may be attempting putting the pressure on any club where there may be an
interest by talking in these terms. It's the last window from which the club
can get a fee after all. "If – as most believe – there has been no interest
from anywhere it's even more worrying from Winston's point of view because
if his advisers go back trying to do a deal they may find the terms offered
earlier are no longer available."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons see summer Zarate result
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are in a "win win" situation following Mauro Zarate's departure to
Loftus Road and are looking at the possibility of a decent summer transfer
fee or a successful return to Upton Park "should a new manager be
appointed." With the club having moved £40k a week off the wage bill and
picked up a £500,000 loan fee, the financial advantage represents a saving
of nearly £1.5 million over the rest of the 2014-15 season. But one of
ClaretandHugh's top insiders made it clear that much bigger benefits may be
available further down the line. He said: "The finances are one thing but in
the middle to long term it may be even more interesting if Mauro proves to
be a success over there. "It could easily mean that we can sell him at a
decent price or, should a change of manager take place, the new man could
easily fancy him. "Given the circumstances surrounding the situation – which
haven't been all that clever – we appear to have got a result out of this.
To be honest we could be in a win win situation all the way."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hammer out brilliant Zarate terms
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have agreed an excellent financial deal following Mauro Zarate's
switch to Queens Park Rangers. With the player in great demand from Premier
League, La Liga and Serie A clubs, we have been able to negotiate a top
dollar package from the Hoops. ClaretandHugh understands that Rangers have
agreed to pay the whole of Zarate's £40k a week wages over the six months he
will be at the club and the Hammers have also agreed a loan fee in addition.
That is believed to be in or around £500,000 with the deal being boosted by
late interest from Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew. A Hammers source
said: "The deal is done and both sides are happy. It should be an
interesting six months for Rangers and us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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WHUFC.com
Mauro Zarate has joined Queens Park Rangers on loan until the end of the
2014/15 season
06.01.2015
West Ham United can confirm that Mauro Zarate has joined Queens Park Rangers
on loan until the end of the 2014/15 season. The Argentine forward will link
up with Harry Redknapp's side, who currently sit 16th in the Barclays
Premier League table, and could make his Hoops debut at Burnley on Saturday.
Zarate will hope to enjoy some invaluable game-time with the R's, having
started just five league matches since his summer arrival at the Boleyn
Ground from Velez Sarsfield. In all, the 28-year-old has scored two goals in
eight appearances for West Ham, seeing his opportunities limited by the form
and presence of fellow forwards Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia, Andy Carroll
and Carlton Cole.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley delighted with Dev Squad
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley was delighted with the Dev Squad's 1-0 win
over Leicester
06.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said he was pleased with his
side's efforts after they beat Leicester City 1-0 at Rush Green on Monday
night. In a tight game with few chances between either side, the Hammers
took the three points when substitute Djair Parfitt-Williams headed home
Lewis Page's corner on 84 minutes. The crucial victory keeps the Dev Squad's
hopes of avoiding relegation alive and speaking after the game, Westley
said: "It was a tough game, a bottom of the table battle from start to
finish. "I actually thought the first twenty minutes we did very well. We
created some really good opportunities, our shape of the team was very good.
The two wide men Matty Fanimo and Blair Turgott were dangerous in behind,
running past their full backs which led to some great opportunities. "I was
really pleased because with 15 minutes to go we got a second wind, a breath
of fresh air if you like. All three substitutes, Jordan Brown, Lewis Page
and Djair Parfitt-Williams made an impact and they gave us some energy. We
had more pace particularly, and I'm delighted for young Djair getting his
first goal for the U21s."
The Dev Squad's 84th minute winner was Parfitt-Williams' first for the Dev
Squad, having already netted six times for the U18s this season. "It was a
big moment for him and we need to keep pushing younger players up the age
group. He's impressed me in my time here, he needs to attack a bit quicker
but he'll learn to do that. He's training with the U21s and I'm pleased to
be able to give him an opportunity on the pitch."
The win also saw the Dev Squad secure their first clean sheet of the season,
after 14 attempts in all competitions. When asked about the defensive
performance, Westley enthused: "I think all the back players, Pottsy the
captain, Howes in goal, Sam Westley and the two Reeces were fantastic for
us. "I thought the two centre-backs were magnificent for us, they were
outstanding. Their management team couldn't believe how young they were.
Their striker Hopper has played league football but they kept battling away
and ultimately kept him quiet.
"Amos Nasha as well did superbly, he hasn't started many games this season
but he did very well today. Alongside Kieran Bywater in midfield they give
us a good basis to play off."
The win comes at an important time, with the Dev Squad facing a busy January
with five games in total. Their next game is on Friday against London rivals
Tottenham Hotspur. "We might mix the team up a bit, we've got a few bumps
and bruises from tonight. Also the window is open for loans so we'll see
about that. There were 23 clubs here tonight so we'll see if any one of them
want to take any of our players. If we think it's the right move then we'll
always consider it. Tottenham don't have a game this week so we'll have to
take that into consideration due to the physical effort these games take.
"We then play again next Wednesday away at Everton, so it's three quick
games. Tonight gives a little bit of impetus and confidence that we need to
get away from the bottom two."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Djair delighted with winning goal
WHUFC.com
Djair Parfitt-Williams scored his first goal for the Dev Squad in 1-0 win
over Leicester City
06.01.2015
West Ham United Academy striker Djair Parfitt-Williams scored his first goal
for the Development Squad as the Hammers beat Leicester City 1-0 in a tight
encounter at Rush Green on Monday night. The 18-year-old has been in fine
form for Steve Potts' U18s this season, scoring six goals in 16 appearances
and he continued his impressive run of form with a header from a Lewis Page
corner in the 84th minute.
With the Dev Squad currently sitting bottom of the Barclays U21 Premier
League, Parfitt-Williams' goal was a crucial intervention to make sure they
do not fall further adrift. Speaking after the game, the Bermudan born goal
scorer said: "I scored my first goal for the U21s and hopefully the first of
many. I scored a header off a corner even though I'm probably one of the
shortest players on the pitch. It felt good to score. "I scored one header
before earlier this season for the U18s but this my only my second one this
season."
Having put in impressive performances for the U18s over the last 18 months,
Parfitt-Williams has played a handful of games for the Dev Squad, including
the 5-3 defeat by Bilbao Athletic. With three Dev Squad appearances to his
name this season, the exciting attacker is aiming to add to this number as
the season progresses. "Of course it's good for Jordan Brown and myself to
be getting opportunities in the U21s. We're both happy, we work well
together and hopefully that will continue. "It was a physical game and
everybody worked hard, definitely. We all put in a good shift, we kept going
until the end and we got a reward for it."
The Development Squad's next game is against London rivals Tottenham Hotspur
on Friday 9 January 2015 at Rush Green Stadium, kick off is 7pm. Admission
is FREE for all Season Ticket Holders, while general admission is just £3
and £1 for U16s.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Alex Song will NOT go to AFCON
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce received a huge boost tonight after it was
revealed that Alex Song will not now be representing Cameroon at this
month's African Cup of Nations. Shortly after West Ham's 3rd round FA Cup
tie at Everton ended this evening (more on that soon), the Telegraph's Matt
Law revealed on Twitter that Song will be returning to West Ham imminently.
The news of Song's return is a major fillip for Allardyce, who was facing
the prospect of being without the on-loan midfielder and Senegal's Diafra
Sakho and Cheik Kouyate - both key to West Ham's revival this season - for
the next few weeks. Whilst the latter is preparing for the AFCON with his
squad, Sakho is currently receiving treatment for the back injury he
sustained against West Brom last week and it is by no means certain that he
will be fit enough to play in the tournament, which begins on 17 January.
* Keep an eye on KUMB for full details on where and when you'll be able to
see West Ham's representatives at the tournament in action.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Alex Song: I want to rebuild my career at the Boleyn
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Alex Song has released a statement explaining his decision to retire from
international football, citing his desire to "rebuild my career at West Ham
United". The on-loan midfielder looked set to join up with the Cameroon
squad as they prepare for the forthcoming African Cup of Nations. That was
until it was revealed negotiations had reached an impasse - and that he
would be returning to West Ham immediately.
"Since the World Cup in the summer and my subsequent exclusion from the
Cameroon squad for the African Cup of Nations I have taken the decision to
retire from international football," read a statement by Song. "It is true
that there were some discussions of late to include me in the squad for this
tournament, but I feel after a lot of careful though and numerous
discussions with my family this is the right decision. "My love for my
country will never change but I want to take time to focus purely on
domestic football and start to rebuild my career at West Ham United. I wish
Cameroon all the best and the team will always be in my heart."
Song has featured on 14 occasions for West Ham this season, having made his
debut against Hull City in the 2-2 draw at the KC Stadium back in September.
He is contracted to West Ham until the end of the current season, when he is
scheduled to return to parent club Barcelona - although the chances of him
resurrecting his career at the Nou Camp are slim, at best.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mauro Zarate: I needed to leave West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Mauro Zarate says he has to leave West Ham as he needed to play on a regular
basis. Zarate, speaking via qpr.co.uk this lunchtime (Tuesday) revealed that
his biggest incentive for leaving the Boleyn Ground was a lack of first team
football, with the likes of Diafra Sakho, Enner Valencia and Andy Carroll
above him in the pecking order. "It's very difficult when you don't play,"
he said. "Last year I played every game in Argentina, so coming to West Ham
and not playing is very bad for me. So I decided to come to QPR and show
what I can do. "I need this, I need to play and Queens Park Rangers have
given me this chance to show what I can do. The Premier League is the best
in the world at this moment. Does my style suit the Premier League? Maybe.
We will see! "When I met the manager he told me he wanted to sign me for
Portsmouth, but I went to Lazio. Now I am here and I will play for him. I
will try to do different things with the ball, some skills to make the
difference for the team, for me and for the other players. " I am fit and I
hope I can be involved on Saturday."
Meanwhile Harry Redknapp, who little more than 24 hours ago gave the
impression that the deal was off, added: "We're really pleased to bring
Mauro in. He's a good footballer, someone with great ability who can play as
a number 10. "I first saw him when he was on loan at Birmingham quite a few
years back and I actually tried to take him to Portsmouth back then. He's a
more-than capable player, he's already shown that, and hopefully he can come
in here and do well for us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers linked with Italian defender
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 6th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are being linked with a move for Watford's Italian defender
Gabriele Angella, according to reports emanating from Italy.
The 25-year-old centre half has spent the last 18 months at Vicarage Road
where he has continued to impress and that, say tuttomercatoweb.com, has led
West Ham and West Brom to make tentative enquiries into the player's
availability. Angella, who began his professional career with Udinese joined
Watford on a free transfer in July 2013, since when he has made more than 50
starts for the Hornets. Only last month he was linked with a return to his
former club, who were also keen to take Angella back to Italy last summer.
One Watford fan, posting on wfcforums.com recently, said of Angella: "He's
an absolute class player. Everything he does is so effortless and assured.
He's by far the best centre back we've had in the 15 years I've followed
Watford." Whilst another added: " I think he will go on to become a stalwart
in defence of a big Italian club for years to come. It is a pleasure to
watch him play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Romelu Lukaku rescues Everton against West Ham
Last Updated: 06/01/15 10:05pm
SSN
Romelu Lukaku's injury-time equaliser denied West Ham a place in the fourth
round of FA Cup and forced a replay after their 1-1 draw at Goodison Park.
James Collins' near-post header in the 56th-minute, converting Morgan
Amalfitano's whipped delivery, looked to have settled an even tie on
Merseyside before Lukaku's late intervention. The Hammers made the brighter
start to proceedings but ultimately conceded the better chances to their
hosts in the first half. For all of their endeavour Everton squandered
numerous opportunities to level the match with Lukaku the main culprit on
several occasions in both halves to hand his side a route back into the
game. The Hammers looked destined to have booked a trip to either Doncaster
or Bristol City in the next round but Lukaku swooped in second-half stoppage
time to force a replay. The Belgian controlled Bryan Oviedo's driven cross
before firing past Adrian in the Hammers goal to ensure the sides would have
to play again next week at Upton Park.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Everton 1-1 West Ham: Under-par Toffees earn replay thanks to last-gasp
Romelu Lukaku goal
Jan 06, 2015 21:52 By David Maddock
The Irons looked to have booked their place in the Fourth Round but Roberto
Martinez's side managed to snatch a draw at the last
The Mirror
Romelu Lukaku produced a dramatic stoppage-time leveller to keep Everton's
FA Cup hopes alive. With the pressure reaching crisis point on boss Roberto
Martinez as West Ham led in the dying seconds through a James Collins header
that exposed serious Goodison fault lines, the Belgian striker pounced to
smash home an acrobatic left foot volley. It was justice for the big centre
forward too, who was the one bright note of an otherwise insipid performance
from the home side, as they were dominated for long periods by West Ham.
Collins was the latest to ruthlessly capitalise on an Everton set piece
weakness that has infected the previously indomitable Merseyside club at a
rate as surprising as it has been swift. He was completely unmarked as he
ran across the six yard box in the 56th minute to smash home a header at the
near post that embarrassed the home goalkeeper and the defenders in front of
him. With a tie against lower league opposition in the next round, the
Hammers started to dream of adding to their illustrious history in this
competition, given their form and imposing strength in recent months. But
with the referee looking at his watch after adding fur minutes of stoppage
time, the Blues launched one last desperate attack.
Bryan Oviedo broke down the left and sent in a hopeful cross that found
Lukaku for once given space by an otherwise admirable visiting defence. And
the Belgium star took one touch with his left foot before lashing in the
bouncing ball on the volley, to send the fans into raptures, and release the
pressure that had been building throughout the second half. Everton almost
had the perfect start, with the distinctly creaky Joel Robles showing why
Martinez indicated he will look for a new keeper this month in the absence
of the injured Tim Howard. He came, saw and flapped at a Stewart Downing
cross, and the Hammers would have opened their account but for a flag as
Enner Valencia strayed just offside. It is the sort of break Everton so
desperately needed – desperation being the operative word, given the frantic
nature of much of their play. Yet perhaps buoyed by that let off, they
eventually settled into this tie, inspired no doubt by their manager's
fondness for cup competition and the attention it brings. The Blues should
have been ahead by half time, with Steven Naismith heralding a better period
of play with a shot that flashed wide on 18 minutes. Before that Everton
were listless, after, they seemed much more the old Everton.
Lukaku twice raced through, showing more edge to his game than he has in the
past month, and was unlucky not to produce a goal. First, he raced away from
the defence, but saw his shot flick off a defender and fly just wide. Then
his ferocious effort stung Adrian's palms, and Naismith was close to
converting the rebound. In between, Naismith also fired across goal from a
narrow angle, and Seamus Coleman was inches away from getting on the end of
a Kevin Mirallas cross. West Ham will wonder how they survived that mini
onslaught, but it allowed them to come out after the break with the belief
that a goal would create frustration among the home support. How it did. The
Hammers, no doubt inspired by words from their manager, were more energetic,
more committed after the break, and pushed Everton back with real intent.
Their goal on 55 minutes seemed almost inevitable, with Jenkinson and
Downing denied in the minutes before, the latter's deflected shot producing
a corner that Amalfitano floated over, and James Collins headed home at the
near post. It was the sort of sloppy goal Everton have conceded too many
times this season, their marking of the big defender too slack as he ran
across the six yard box.
The Hammers almost doubled their lead soon after, Robles making a fine save
from Valencia's close-range header. But Lukaku was to have the last word,
saving the hosts' blushes in added time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce hits out at Valencia miss
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was left bitterly disappointed after the
Hammers let a 1-0 lead over Everton slip in injury time and now face a
tricky FA Cup third round replay at the Boleyn. He claimed we hadn't
defender properly and of the Everton equaliser said: "The lad (Oviedo) was
incredibly lucky to get a cross in which was untouched by our defence and
that was that. It's all the more disappointing to concede so late in injury
time."
He then launched a tirade of criticism at Enner Valencia for placing a
header straight at the keeper Robles earlier in the game declaring: "You
expect someone of his ability to do better than that." He added: "But we put
in a really good team performance. I think they all played up to their
maximum but the overwhelming feeling is one of disappointment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers hit by Lukaku late leveller
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
With Andy Carroll having suffered an injury in training, manager Sam
Allardyce started with Enner Valencia up top. Morgan Amalfitano was played
in an advanced role with Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan coming in as expected.
The game settled into into a nice tempo from the start and the Irons first
chance came when Matt Jarvis clipped in a cross for Winston Reid to head
wide. Everton went straight to the other end and a Lukaku drive was spilled
by Adrian but Reid was on hand to clear before Jenkins crossed for Jarvis
who flicked goalwards but with little pace for keeper Robles collected.
Although the Irons were dominating possession, the home side looked the more
dangerous going forward and Naismith had Adrian scrambling as a 25 yard shot
flew wide. Barkley then released Lukaku but his powerful shot too flew wide.
Naismith pushed forward again but saw his shot from a tight angle fly across
the face of goal.
Everton had yet another outstanding chance when Miralles fired a wicked
cross to the far post but Coleman just failed to get a touch.
At the other end Amafitano fired over the top before Reid, who had performed
well at the heart of the Hammers defence thwarted Lukaku from close in. The
Irons started the second half with a rattle and Robles was forced to save
well when Jenkinson galloped forward and unleashed a fierce drive. But on 56
minutes the Hammers produced a clasic training ground set piece when from
Amalfitano's outswinging corner saw Collins arriving at the near post to
crash home a brilliant header. The home side responded well but for all
their forward movement and the constant Lukaku threat they could not create
a real chance. Valencia could have added to the lead when his header from
Noble's fine ball in was palmed over the top by Robles. Manager Allardyce
adopted a "what we have we hold" approach bringing on Cole for Valencia and
Poyet for Jarvis but Lukaku was to have the last word deep into four minutes
of injury time. The huge striker arrived in the box tolas him from six yards
from Oviedpo's cross after the Hammers defence had failed to clear.
West Ham Adrian 7 Jenkinson 7 Reid 8 Collins 8, Cresswell 7; Noble 7, Nolan
4, Amalfitan0 7 Downing 7 Jarvis 6 Valencia 6
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Agent: "Sam may be trying to flush out an offer"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce's very public declaration that Winston Reid may have come to a
verbal agreement – with some club or other – was today described to
ClaretandHugh as looking like "a desperate attempt to flush out an offer."
We spoke to one of the country's top agents – who wished to remain anonymous
– but said: "It seems that Sam may be hoping bring one from the clubs
reported to be interested – Arsenal, Liverpool or Manchester United…or
indeed anywhere! "It's impossible to believe the Hammers won't have heard if
there's any real interest and most inside the game who have been close to
the situation know there hasn't been an inquiry. Had there been Sam would
hardly need to talk in these terms. "Big four clubs – or indeed any Premier
League clubs – aren't into doing private verbal agreements – the money does
the talking. Things are done properly "There's a game of bluff going on and
it looks more and more likely there has been absolutely no interest as the
club has regularly suggested. All agents plant stories in the press to whip
up interest when they are struggling to get a bite! "It's January and Sam's
may be attempting putting the pressure on any club where there may be an
interest by talking in these terms. It's the last window from which the club
can get a fee after all. "If – as most believe – there has been no interest
from anywhere it's even more worrying from Winston's point of view because
if his advisers go back trying to do a deal they may find the terms offered
earlier are no longer available."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons see summer Zarate result
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are in a "win win" situation following Mauro Zarate's departure to
Loftus Road and are looking at the possibility of a decent summer transfer
fee or a successful return to Upton Park "should a new manager be
appointed." With the club having moved £40k a week off the wage bill and
picked up a £500,000 loan fee, the financial advantage represents a saving
of nearly £1.5 million over the rest of the 2014-15 season. But one of
ClaretandHugh's top insiders made it clear that much bigger benefits may be
available further down the line. He said: "The finances are one thing but in
the middle to long term it may be even more interesting if Mauro proves to
be a success over there. "It could easily mean that we can sell him at a
decent price or, should a change of manager take place, the new man could
easily fancy him. "Given the circumstances surrounding the situation – which
haven't been all that clever – we appear to have got a result out of this.
To be honest we could be in a win win situation all the way."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons hammer out brilliant Zarate terms
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have agreed an excellent financial deal following Mauro Zarate's
switch to Queens Park Rangers. With the player in great demand from Premier
League, La Liga and Serie A clubs, we have been able to negotiate a top
dollar package from the Hoops. ClaretandHugh understands that Rangers have
agreed to pay the whole of Zarate's £40k a week wages over the six months he
will be at the club and the Hammers have also agreed a loan fee in addition.
That is believed to be in or around £500,000 with the deal being boosted by
late interest from Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew. A Hammers source
said: "The deal is done and both sides are happy. It should be an
interesting six months for Rangers and us."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Tuesday, January 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th January 2015
Preview - Everton
WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Tuesday's FA Cup Third Round tie away at
Everton
05.01.2015
EVERTON v WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
GOODISON PARK
TUESDAY 5 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: ANTHONY TAYLOR
In brief
West Ham United travel to Goodison Park for the second time this season as
they kick off their FA Cup campaign on Tuesday evening.
The Hammers lost narrowly to Roberto Martinez's men 2-1 in November when
goals from Romelu Lukaku and Leon Osman were enough to clinch the three
points despite a Mauro Zarate goal.
Everton have been hampered by injuries to key players as well as congested
fixture list which has contributed to their poor league form. The Toffees
currently sit in 13th position in the Premier League with 21 points from 20
games. In contrast, the Hammers are lying in seventh place having taken 32
points.
Fourth Round draw
The winners of this tie will travel to Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City in
the fourth round.
Who are they?
Formed from St Domingo's FC, they played their first game on 1 January 1878
in Stanley Park. They changed their name to Everton Football Club in 1879,
winning their first game under the new name 6-0 against St Peter's. Five
years later, Everton won the Liverpool Cup, their first ever cup with a 1-0
win over Earlestown.
Everton were one of the 12 founder members of the Football League in 1888,
winning their first league title at the third attempt. The Toffees moved to
Goodison Park in 1892, winning their first game 4-2 over Bolton Wanderers.
Since then, Everton have established themselves as one of the more
successful teams in Britain, winning the first division nine times as well
as an impressive five FA Cups.
More recently, trophies have been harder to come by - their last success
came in the FA Cup in the 1994/95 season. However ex-manager David Moyes
established them as one of the best teams in the Premier League, regularly
finishing in the top half and challenging for a European spot.
Team news
West Ham United
Diafra Sakho is unavailable due to a back injury sustained against West
Bromwich Albion on New Year's Day, he is currently being assessed by a
specialist to determine the extent of the injury. Fellow Senegalese
International Cheikhou Kouyate has joined up with the national team as they
prepare for their African Cup of Nations campaign. James Tomkins twisted his
ankle in training and is unlikely to be fit in time, James Collins is set to
continue alongside Winston Reid in defence.
Everton
The Toffees' injury problems have continued into the New Year with Tim
Howard (calf), Tony Hibbert (muscular injury) and Leon Osman (tendon) all
out injured. Further, Antolin Alcaraz is suspended after being sent off
against Hull City in their New Year's Day defeat while Christian Atsu is
also on international duty. Steven Pienaar (knee), Darron Gibson (knee) and
James McCarthy (hamstring) are all unfit. John Stones and Kevin Mirallas
(both ankle) are in contention to play but may not be risked.
Referee
Tuesday's referee is Anthony Taylor who has taken charge of 16 Premier
League games so far this season including the Hammers' 2-0 win over Queens
Park Rangers on Sunday 5 October 2014. Of those 16 games, the homes side has
won five times, with the away side winning seven and there have been four
draws. The assistant referees are Darren England and Michael McDonough,
Michael Jones is the Fourth Official.
Statistics
(2014/15 season - Barclays Premier League only)
Matches refereed: 16
Yellow cards shown: 67
Red cards shown: 3
Penalties awarded: 2
One to watch
West Ham United
With Cheikhou Kouyate on international duty, Mark Noble is likely to start
in the heart of midfield. The tenacious midfielder has not featured as
regularly as some may have expected as a problem with his Achilles tendon
has limited his game time.
However, now he has overcome the injury he will be raring to get back among
the thick of it.
Everton
The highly rated Ross Barkley has caught the attention of many football fans
and pundits alike with his impressive attacking ability and creative spark.
The England international has scored eight goals in 46 starts for his
boyhood club and Martinez may have a tough job keeping him on Merseyside
should his performances continue to impress.
Tickets
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's match, to purchase tickets please
click here.
Travel
For directions to Goodison Park please click here.
Weather
The temperature at kick off is forecast to be a chilly but dry 6C (42.8F).
During the day, Tuesday should be a sunny day.
Last meeting
Everton 2-1 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
Saturday 22 November 2014
Close, but no cigar for the Hammers, who gave a really spirited performance
at Goodison Park but were ultimately punished for being caught on the break
in the second half.
Following Mauro Zarate's equaliser, it looked as though the Hammers were
beginning to gain the upper hand as the closing stages approached, but it
was not to be with goals from Romelu Lukaku and Leon Osman giving the
visitors their first defeat since late September.
Everton: Howard, Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Hibbert, Osman, Mirallas (Eto'o
66), Naismith (Atsu 89), Barkley (Besic 80), Lukaku
Subs not used: Robles, Browning, Garbutt, Ledson
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Collins, Cresswell,
Amalfitano (Vaz Te 82), Nolan, Noble (Jarvis 52), Carroll, Cole (Zarate 51)
Subs not used: Demel, Lletget, O'Brien, Jaaskelainen
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC targets birthday victory
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll is hoping to celebrate his 26th birthday with an FA Cup win at
Everton
05.01.2015
Birthday boy Andy Carroll knows a thing or two about the FA Cup. The centre
forward scored in the third round, fifth round, semi-final and final as
Liverpool finished as runners-up to Chelsea in 2012. On Tuesday, the No9
returns to the city he called home between January 2011 and June 2013, as
West Ham United travel to Everton in the third round of the world's
most-famous knockout competition. As someone who knows first-hand how
passionate the people of Merseyside are for both football and the FA Cup,
Carroll is relishing a tie that will be played on his 26th birthday. "I've
played against Everton a few times when I was at Liverpool," he recalled.
"It's my birthday as well that day so hopefully I'll give myself a nice goal
on my birthday if I get a game! "I think it's a great competition. It gives
you a great chance of winning something. I think us as a club that's
growing, it's something we need to have in our sights. The way we're playing
at the minute I don't see why we couldn't get to the final and maybe even
win it."
Carroll came so close to doing just that three seasons ago, when he scored a
dramatic late winner in Liverpool's semi-final victory over their Merseyside
neighbours at Wembley. Unsurprisingly, he has fond memories of that day. "It
was a great feeling," he smiled. "As a derby it was massive for the fans.
The cross came in and I got my head on it. After the game it was a dream, a
lot of emotions."
The final saw Liverpool take on Chelsea. Again, Carroll found the target,
but it was not enough to deny the Blues a 2-1 success and FA Cup glory. The
striker's frustration was compounded when his 81st minute header was pushed
onto the underside of the crossbar by Petr Cech. Carroll claimed a goal, but
match officials decided it had not crossed the line. "We were getting beat
2-0 and I came on and scored," he recalled. "We got back into it and had
several chances. One chance went over the line but it wasn't given. I think
if we had goal line technology like we do now I think it would have been
given. It was a good game that we should've got something out of."
Fast forward to Tuesday evening, and Carroll believes West Ham can take
confidence from their own position in the Barclays Premier League table, as
well as their performance in a 2-1 defeat at Goodison Park back in November.
"It was a tough game and they're a great team. They've just been beaten by
Newcastle so we know they are vulnerable. The manager will show us how we
can break them down. We know how to break teams down so hopefully we can go
there and get the win. "I feel with the confidence the lads have got at the
moment and the way we're playing well, we can go through. I think it gives
the lads a big boost to know we're pretty much safe in the league and we can
give the cup a good go."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam on: Everton
WHUFC.com
The manager held his pre-Everton press conference on Monday morning
05.01.2015
Sam Allardyce has been grateful for the five-day gap between games ahead of
Tuesday's FA Cup third round tie against Everton. The Hammers had a blank
weekend, while many of their Premier League rivals were back in action just
days after their New Year's Day fixtures. That has allowed West Ham's
players to recover ahead of their Cup showdown, in which Big Sam wants to
see a return to winning ways.
Sam, considering how well you are doing in the league at the moment, would
it be right to assume you'll be really going for the FA Cup this season?
SA: "I think that wouldn't be the case if we were playing on Saturday,
having played on Thursday. That would have been nearly impossible with the
fatigue level and I think you could see that in the QPR players. Harry tried
to play his best side for four games in a row and it didn't work and they
ended up losing 3-0 to Sheffield United. "It's not possible to play the best
team each game because of the fatigue levels. But we've had four or five
days rest which has helped so we can play a strong team. It's quite strange
playing on Tuesday night but it has given us a little bit of breathing
space. "We won't have a few players available due to the African Cup of
Nations starting soon and Diafra Sakho has got a back injury which we are
assessing."
How serious is the injury and is Sakho likely to miss the African Cup of
Nations?
SA: "We're still assessing the situation, he's seeing a specialist in London
at the moment. He's all the appropriate scans but we need to see the extent
of it. Obviously the back is a sensitive area which can take some time to
mend depending on the scenario. Until we get the full diagnosis we won't
know the right way forward."
A word on Mauro Zarate, there was talk of Crystal Palace being interested,
among other clubs, do you have any updates on the situation?
SA: "I don't to be honest. I thought it was all done and dusted with QPR but
that doesn't seem to be the case for whatever reason. When the situation has
been decided we'll deal with it from there.
If he does leave, does that create a space for you to bring someone else in?
SA: "I don't think so. What Mauro's problem is, is that he feels he hasn't
played enough here at West Ham. He feels he needs to go play somewhere else,
and if he goes elsewhere he'll have a better chance of playing. I think his
problem is that if he'd played better here, he would have played more often.
But I haven't heard of any other club that is interested in him apart from
QPR."
You've signed Doneil Henry, what can you tell us about him?
SA: "He's a player for the near future we hope. He was recommended by Ryan
Nelsen from his time at Toronto FC, who was my captain at Blackburn Rovers.
Ryan himself was a fantastic central defender. Doneil came here on a trial
and impressed us. He's only 21 so he has a lot of potential and hopefully
he'll be challenging for a place soon."
Is he a player who could replace Winston Reid?
SA: "His contract is out at the end of the year. His future is that his
contract ends on 30 June, he hasn't said that he is or isn't going to sign
at the moment. By the feel of it you'd err on the side that he won't so I
think it's unlikely. We haven't had any approaches for him in January."
How is the rest of the squad fitness wise?
SA: "James Tomkins twisted his ankle yesterday so we'll assess that one. The
three Africa Cup of Nations players won't feature so we've got a bit of a
thin squad."
Does tomorrow's game give some of the players who haven't played as much as
they might have liked to show what they can do?
SA: "Looking at the team there won't be too many changes. Mark Noble and
Kevin Nolan will play a big part. Ricardo Vaz Te might get an opportunity
and Matt Jarvis hasn't played as much as he wants to so he'll get a few more
games soon. We haven't had the results we wanted recently but I think the
performances have still been very good. We'll play the strongest team
available against Everton."
Are you surprised at how Everton have struggled this season?
SA: "No not really, considering the injuries and the amount of fixtures
they've had. They've had injuries to key players in important positions so
that always has a huge effect. Stones, Distin and Jagielka have all been out
so that really disrupts the solidarity at the back which is why they have
conceded so many goals. If there's a lack of confidence hopefully we can
exploit that."
Do you feel you can prioritise the Cup more this year than any others?
SA: "Yes because of our league position. Last year it was the bottom of our
priorities because we were concentrating on getting out of trouble while
also being in the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup."
Has the glamour of the FA Cup gone a bit?
SA: "It's hard to say, it certainly has in terms of its attendances, I think
across the board they've gone down. But overall I don't think it has. It's a
great tournament with the opportunity of playing at Wembley at the end. I
remember watching it from the age of about eight or nine and the chances of
an underdog beating a big boy hasn't lost its glamour. There hasn't been so
many shocks in this round but the glamour is still there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad 1-0 Leicester
WHUFC.com
Minute-by-minute updates as the Dev Squad beat Leicester City 1-0 at Rush
Green
05.01.2015
DEVELOPMENT SQUAD v LEICESTER CITY U21
BARCLAYS U21 PREMIER LEAGUE
RUSH GREEN STADIUM
MONDAY 05 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7 PM
REFEREE: NEIL HAIR
FT: Dev Squad 1-0 Leciester City
FT: The Dev Squad have done it! Parfitt-Williams with a crucial goal seals a
win just when a draw looked like the most likely outcome. The Dev Squad are
in action again this Friday against London rivals Tottenham Hostpur, kick
off 7pm from Rush Green.
92: A lot of tired legs out their now, but can they hold out?
90: Good hold up play by Turgott wastes a few seconds before Lletget buys a
free-kick off Leicester. Not long left to go.
88: The Hammers have got the ball exactly where they want it, right in the
far corner. They work it to Lletget who tries to curl it to the far post.
87: The Foxes have had the wind knocked out of their sails with that goal,
the Hammers have certainly been given a lift. Just a few minutes to hold out
for a vital win.
84: GOAL! 1-0 to the Hammers. Djair Parfitt-Williams gets his head to
another cross from Bywater and it flies into the far corner. A fine goal for
the youngster!
83: Turgott breaks again but his pass is tired and it is easily cut out.
Leicester break with a four on three in their favour, Oxford cuts it out
well.
81: Lewis Page is nailed by Jak McCourt who quite rightly goes into the book
for that challenge.
80: Another great delivery from Bywater, straight into the six-yard box
which goes agonizingly close to Parfitt-Williams. Any connection and it
would have gone in.
78: Bywater floats a terrific ball into the box which Brown attacks. It
falls just wide of the post via a deflection. Corner.
77: Into under the last 15 minutes here. Leicester have looked more
threatening in this second period yet the Hammers know they still in with a
chance.
75: Reece Burke does superbly to bring the ball from the half way line right
to Leicester's box, he tries to play in Brown but the linesman flags him for
offside, another tight call.
73: Djair Parfitt-Williams is coming on for Matty Fanimo who looked like he
had picked up a knock. The two U18s leading goal scorers are on for the
Hammers now, can they find their prolific form tonight?
71: Lletget volleys a dropping clearance which is blocked for a corner.
Jordan Brown almost gets to it at the back post.
70: Lewis Page is on in place of Dan Potts.
68: Dodoo tries his luck from distance, Howes sees it early and allows it go
wide of his post. Leicester have been on top for the majority of this second
half.
65: Hopper almosts scores as his neat flick falls dangerously close to the
near post, good invention from th Foxes' striker.
64: Potts throws himself in front of a shot from Barrington, excellent
defending from the left-back, good to see him back out on the pitch after a
lengthy injury.
62: Fanimo bursts to the by-line but his clipped cross narrowly evades
everyone and is headed out and away.
60: Panayiotou's snap shot goes just wide of Howes' post, the goalkeeper
looked to have it covered anyway.
58: Jordan Brown is on in place Paul McCallum.
56: Dan Potts is caught in posession resulting in Barrington running down on
the Hammers' area. Bywater trips the striker and goes into the book. Taking
one for the team.
53: Marcel Barrington is on in place of Louis Rowley.
51: The Hammers break down the right wing with Turgott who slides a good
ball in to McCallum. Elliot Moore slides in to clear the danger.
48: Lletget is flagged for offside despite looking well on. He and his
teammates look disgusted at the decision as he was clean through.
46: Both teams are back out on the pitch and we're about to resume play. A
big 45 minutes ahead for both sides, the Hammers really needs to find a way
through. Ben Chilwell has replaced Joe Davis in a like-for-like swap at
left-back.
HT: Half way here at Rush Green, both chances have had two good chances to
break the deadlock yet both goalkeepers have defended their clean sheets
admirably. A long way to go still.
41: Free kick for the Hammers in a dangerous position after Lletget was
fouled. The referee adjudges that Leicester's goalkeeper was fouled and they
clear it upfield.
39: Just a moment later and Leicester should really take the lead.
Panayiotou is through but he pokes it wide. Al real let off for the Hammers
there.
38: Jack McCourt stings the palms of Howes with a rasping shot from the edge
of the box. Bit of pressure from the visitors here.
34: Jack Barmby is away down the left flank. Trouble for the Hammers but
Howes dives forward to collect the cross, good goalkeeping from the young
shot-stopper.
31: Good sliding tackle by Reece Burke is stop Hopper making any progress
into the box.
28: Turgott's pace is causing the Foxes real problems. Again Lletget looks
to play Turgott in behind the defence, he sprints to keep up but Smith is
quick off his line to collect the ball. Half-hearted appeals for a penalty
which the referee waves away.
24: McCallum is adjudged to have fouled Elder. The resulting free-kick
causes a few more defensive problems until Burke brings the ball out
expertly, he tries to set Fanimo free but the ball is just over hit.
22: Free-kick to West Ham in a dangerous position, Fanimo to swing it
in...however he over hits it and the goalkeeper collects without any bother.
19: Chance for the visitors as a long throw bu Joe Davis causes the defence
all kinds of problems. Harry Panayiotou heads goalwards and Sam Howes has to
spring into action to save his team.
17: Turgott tries his luck from the edge of the box and he connects well.
The ball swings a bit in the air before Smith clutches it.
15: Smart work from Blair Turgott in a tight space wins his side a corner,
Leicester have got everyone back to defend this.
13: A frantic start here at Rush Green with both teams chasing a win that
they both need. The Hammers have shaded it so far but the Foxes look
dangerous on the break.
10: Great chance for the Hammers to take the lead as Matthias Fanimo is sent
through on goal by a glorious pass. He beats his man for pace but the
goalkeeper Adam Smith stays big and and saves well.
9: Lletget sets Turgott free down the right wing, his drilled cross is cut
out by the first man.
7: Dan Potts choses safety first as he clears it out for a throw in. He wins
the resulting header and clears up field.
5: Another chance for the Hammers as again they break through Lletget, his
cross is cut out for a corner. From the resulting corner, Leicester
eventually scramble it away after Reece Oxford's header was goal bound.
2: Bright start for the Hammers. McCallum knocks on to Lletget who plays the
No9 back in. Unfortunately the linesman has his flag raised and Leicester
get posession.
0: We're off! West Ham United get us under way with Paul McCallum from the
kick off.
It's a surprisingly mild night here at Rush Green, the floodlights are on
and the fans are beginning to
Both teams are out on the pitch warming up, we've got just over half an hour
until kick off.
Leicester City go into this game on the back of a good run having won four
of their last six games, including a 6-2 win over Manchester City and a 3-2
away win over Manchester United.
Academy Director Terry Westley makes four changes to the starting XI that
lost 4-1 away to Newcastle United. Amos Nasha, Reece Oxford, Blair Turgott
and Matthias Fanimo come in for Diego Poyet, Kieran Sadlier, Danny Whitehead
and Lewis Page.
West Ham United: Howes (GK), Westley, Potts © (Page 70), Nasha, Burke,
Oxford, Turgott, Bywater, McCallum (J. Brown 58), Lletget, Fanimo
(Parfitt-Williams 73)
Subs: Whitehead, Boness
Leicester City: Smith, Davis, Elder, McCourt, Sesay, Moore, Barmby, Rowley,
Hopper (c), Panayiotou, Dodoo
Subs: Chilwell, Maddison, Scott, Ndukwu, Barrington
In effect, this is a must win game for both as we reach towards half way
mark of the season.
Tonight's game is huge for both teams as they currently sit at the wrong end
of the table. The Hammers are currently bottom of the Barclays U21 Premier
League with five points from their opening games, meanwhile tonight's
visitors, the Foxes, are only three points better off in eleventh place with
eight points.
Hello and welcome to tonight's live coverage from Rush Green as West Ham
United's Development Squad take on Leicester City U21 in their first game of
2015.
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce predicts Winston Reid exit
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says he expects Winston Reid to leave the
club when the central defender's contract expires at the end of June. Reid
has been in negotiations over a new deal with the Hammers but Allardyce does
not think the 26-year-old will extend his stay. "It's highly unlikely
Winston is going to sign for us based on what people have said to me," said
Allardyce. Reid has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Liverpool. The New
Zealand international joined West Ham from Danish side FC Midtjylland in
August 2010 and has developed into one of the club's key players. Allardyce
said no approaches had been made for Reid so far in the January transfer
window.
He added: "There is no future for Winston Reid at West Ham at the moment as
his contract finishes on 30 June. He hasn't said he is or isn't going to
sign. "You would err on the back that he isn't, by the feel and look of it,
at this moment in time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Doncaster or Bristol City await in the FA Cup fourth round
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will face either Doncaster or Bristol City in the next round of the
FA Cup, should they overcome Everton at Goodison Park tomorrow night.
The draw, made this evening at Wimbledon FC pitched Everton or the Hammers
away to either League One Doncaster or Championship Bristol City, who drew
1-1 at the Keepmoat Stadium on Saturday.
All ties will be played between 24-27 January. The full fourth round draw
was as follows:
Southampton or Ipswich Town v Crystal Palace
Cambridge United v Manchester United
Blackburn Rovers v Swansea City
Chelsea v Millwall or Bradford City
Derby County v Scunthorpe or Chesterfield
Preston North End v Sheffield United
Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa v AFC Bournemouth
Cardiff City v Reading
AFC Wimbledon or Liverpool v Bolton Wanderers
Burnley or Tottenham v Leicester City
Brighton & Hove Albion v Arsenal
Rochdale v Stoke City
Sunderland v Fulham or Wolves
Doncster or Bristol City v West Ham United
Manchester City v Middlesbrough
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho to miss AFCON through injury?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Hammers striker Diafra Sakho could miss the entire African Cup of Nations
tournament as a result of the injury he sustained against West Brom on New
Year's Day. As revealed here on KUMB last week, Sakho was sent for a scan on
his back following West Ham's 1-1 draw with West Brom at the Boleyn on the
opening day of 2015. And whilst those procedures have already taken place,
Sam Allardyce confirmed this morning that the extent of the damage remains
unknown presently. "We're still assessing the situation, he's seeing a
specialist in London at the moment," he said. "He's all the appropriate
scans but we need to see the extent of it. "Obviously the back is a
sensitive area which can take some time to mend depending on the scenario.
Until we get the full diagnosis we won't know the right way forward."
Sakho has been in sparkling form since moving to England last August,
scoring nine times in his first 15 appearances for West Ham United. He first
suffered a back problem when on international duty back in November and
missed three games as a result. Allardyce was particularly annoyed with the
way Sakho's injury was handled and labelled the way it was handled by
Senegal's medical team as "outrageous", adding that the injury had been
"mistreated so badly".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate out in the cold as Redknapp cools interest
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Harry Redknapp has once again dismissed reports that Mauro Zarate is on his
way to Queens Park Rangers. On New Year's Day it was revealed that the
Argentine's planned move to Loftus Road could be off, with rumours of a
failed medical arising from the KUMB Forum. Redknapp, when questioned,
replied that he was "not sure" or the current situation. Little appears to
have changed in west London over the course of the proceeding four days as
when asked about Zarate again this morning, Redknapp reiterated that the
striker was no closer to a move to Rangers. "We're not close to doing any
deals at all. Not a thing," he told the media. "We're looking for loans and
I really haven't got a clue as to where we're going to find any at the
moment. "I don't know where you find anybody on loan at this time of year.
Who are you going to find on loan who is going to come and make a big
difference to your team? "It's very difficult."
Ironically perhaps Zarate would have almost certainly started for West Ham
at Everton tomorrow night had he not spoken out against manager Sam
Allardyce, who he claimed was failing to utilise him correctly. Diafra Sakho
is definitely out with a back injury whilst Andy Carroll is a doubt having
complained of tightness in an ankle, following three successive starts over
the Christmas period. That leaves Allardyce with only Enner Valencia,
Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te - who last played for the first team in the
2-1 Premier League defeat at Goodison Park on 22 November - as fit strikers.
Allardyce himself was nonplussed when asked about the ongoing Zarate
situation during his press conference this morning. "I thought it was all
done and dusted with QPR but that doesn't seem to be the case for whatever
reason," he replied. "His problem is that if he'd played better here, he
would have played more often. But I haven't heard of any other club that is
interested in him apart from QPR."
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Allardyce to field "strong" team for Everton trip
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has revealed that he will be putting out a strong a side as
possible when the Hammers travel to Merseyside tomorrow to face struggling
Everton in the third round of the FA Cup. The hosts, unusually camped in the
lower half of the Premier League took just one point from their three
Christmas games - although of course West Ham fared little better, taking
just the one (WBA at home). However any concerns that Allardyce will rest
key players in order to boost his chances of winning United's next Premier
League clash at Swansea this weekend have been dispelled by the manager. As
revealed here on KUMB last week, Allardyce will be without Cheik Kouyate,
Diafra Sakho and Alex Song. However he still intends to field the best team
he possibly can. "It's not possible to play the best team each game because
of the fatigue levels," he told the media at this morning's pre-match press
conference. "But we've had four or five days rest which has helped, so we
can play a strong team. "It's quite strange playing on Tuesday night but it
has given us a little bit of breathing space. That wouldn't be the case if
we were playing on Saturday, having played on Thursday. That would have been
nearly impossible with fatigue.
"Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan will play a big part. Ricardo Vaz Te might get
an opportunity and Matt Jarvis hasn't played as much as he wants to so he'll
get a few more games soon. We'll play the strongest team available."
One player who definitely won't be available is Mauro Zarate, who is
currently in limbo having signalled his intentions to leave the Boleyn
Ground. Despite having been set to sign for QPR last week, he remains a West
Ham player. None the wiser apparently, is his manager. " I thought it was
all done and dusted with QPR but that doesn't seem to be the case for
whatever reason," said Allardyce. "When the situation has been decided we'll
deal with it from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pardew looks to hijack Zarate QPR move
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers boss Alan Pardew's is set to hijack (former Hammers boss)
Harry Redknapp's bid to sign Mauro Zarate on loan from West Ham, according
to reports. The unhappy forward appeared set to complete a loan move to the
west London club last week. However last weekend a member of KUMB's Forum
claimed that there had been a problem with Zarate's medical. Subsequently,
Harry Redknapp refused to confirm that the signing would proceed whilst no
official word has been given over the hold up, lending weight to the
aforementioned speculation.
And now the Mirror claim that Pardew, who officially returned to Selhurst
Park last weekend is keen to snatch Zarate from Redknapp's grasp. Pardew,
whose Palace side are desperately short of firepower would be able to offer
Zarate first team football, which he claims is his primary reason for
wanting to leave the Boleyn Ground.
* Rumours that West Ham may be interested in signing Swansea's combative
midfielder Jonjo Shelvey were dismissed earlier today by the son of co-owner
David Sullivan on Twitter. Speculation that the Romford-born player was on
the verge of signing for the Hammers spread this afternoon via social media,
after someone posted a photograph of a vehicle in the Boleyn Ground car park
said to belong to Shelvey.
However a later message posted via the Twitter account belonging to Jack
Sullivan dismissed the rumours - without refuting suggestions that the car
was in fact Shelvey's.
Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Jonjo Shelveys is not signing for west ham, despite photos of his car being
outside Upton park
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MORE FROM THE SUPPORTERS ADVISORY BOARD
By Iain Dale 5 Jan 2015 at 22:09
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Safe Hands
There were a few other snippets that I wanted to tell you from the meeting
on 9 December, and even though most of them have surfaced in other
discussions, I thought I'd list them out as Iain's asked for articles.
(There's nothing like setting up a high level of expection for a read is
there?)
• The club want to engage with the fanbase more and give supporters
the opportunity to participate/feedback via Facebook, Twitter, email shots,
and the SAB. Looking at that list, I'd say the more static and less speedy
of these is the SAB (be nice people!).
• The club have adjusted the remit of the SAB as most of the high
activity of going to the OS has now taken place although there is still more
to be done. They have said they will be much more transparent and that when
they tell us something, it will also be published on the website. They have
also halved the number of SAB members and it now stands at 66 – the full
list is HERE
• The club have now employed a Supporter Liaison Officer, James
Rutherford, who will act as the fulcrum for fans' responses and the club's
'go-to' person to garner supporter opinion. FYI He is an ex-SAB member.
• The official website's going to be a changed early in the new year.
• There's going to be another Fan Forum in February – details will be
on the main site idc.
• Moving to the OS – information will be released in January as to how
the seat transition is going to be handled as well as how people can arrange
to sit together. The first appointments to meet with fans to discuss their
new seats will be in April. Despite being questioned, they wouldn't give us
any more information than that.
FYI Many thanks for all your responses to my post about the shirts for our
last season at The Boleyn. I've put them together and sent them to the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set for Alex Song blow with star midfielder set to join Cameroon
for Africa Cup of Nations
Jan 05, 2015 17:00 By Darren Lewis
Song has not yet confirmed that he is set to leave for the tournament but he
is understood currently to be in Cameroon holding talks with key figures in
the national set up
The Mirror
West Ham are steeling themselves for confirmation that Alex Song IS set to
jet off to the Africa Cup of Nations after all. The u-turn is set to come as
a massive blow to the east Londoners' outside hopes of challenging for
Europe. They currently sit seventh in the Premier League, four points off
Southampton in fourth. Song has not yet confirmed that he is set to leave
for the tournament but he is understood currently to be in Cameroon holding
talks with key figures within the country's football federation, who do want
him back. MirrorFootball exclusively revealed last week that the nation was
poised to stage a change of heart over the Hammers' star midfielder, on loan
from Barcelona. Lions' Head Coach Volker Finke left the Irons delighted
before Christmas when he left the 27-year-old out of his squad for the
competition which begins on January 17.
Song has been out of Finke's plans since being sent off at the World Cup
against Croatia last summer. He has impressed hugely since his summer move
to West Ham, however, and Finke is understood to have been pressured by his
country's top brass into changing his mind.
Feelers were put out to Song two weeks ago and the player has responded
favourably to his country reaching out. It means, however, that he is set to
miss West Ham's upcoming Premier League games at Swansea and at home to
Hull, along with their FA Cup Fourth Round tie should they make it past
Everton tomorrow night. Should Cameroon make it to the AFCON quarter-finals
or beyond, Song will also be out of the massive League games against
Liverpool and Manchester United. West Ham are already set to lose Cheikhou
Kouyate to Senegal while that country's top-scorer Diafra Sakho is suffering
from a back problem which means he will unavailable to the club even if he
doesn't join up with his national side.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal transfer target Winston Reid has ''no future'' at West Ham, admits
Sam Allardyce
Jan 05, 2015 11:35 By Neil McLeman
It is "highly unlikely" that Reid - who has also been linked with Manchester
United - will stay beyond the summer, insists the Hammers boss
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has admitted it is "highly unlikely" that Winston Reid will
sign a new contract at West Ham. The New Zealand defender is out of contract
at the end of the season and is refusing to sign a new deal. Arsenal and
Manchester United have been linked with signing the centre-back in the
summer. And before tomorrow's FA Cup tie at Everton, the Irons boss said:
"There is no future for Winston Reid at West Ham United at the moment
because his contract finishes. "The only thing is that his contract finishes
June 30. He hasn't said he is going to sign and he hasn't said he is isn't.
"But you would you err on the side that he isn't by the feel and the look of
it at this moment in time, by the know-how in the football world I have been
talking to - other managers and so forth about the situation so I would say
it is highly unlikely that Winston is going to sign for us based on what
people are saying to me." Allardyce has previously stated he would not sell
Reid in this transfer window for less than £20m. "We have had no
approaches," he said.
Diafra Sakho could be forced out of the African Nations Cup with the back
injury he suffered on international duty in November. The Senegal striker
had been due to join up with his country for the tournament in Equitorial
Guinea but Allardyce said: "He is being assessed at this moment by the
specialist in London. "He has had all the appropriate scans. We need to sit
down and assess the extent of the injury - has it got any worse since the
last time? Is it the same? With a back, it is a delicate scenario. "Until we
get the full diagnosis from the specialist today, we won't know which will
be the way forward."
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Crystal Palace plot transfer hijack of Mauro Zarate's move to QPR from West
Ham
Jan 04, 2015 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Striker has had a medical and agreed terms with the Rs but HASN'T signed on
loan and now their relegation-fight rivals from across London hope to swoop
in
The Mirror
Crystal Palace are ready to hijack QPR's bid to sign Mauro Zarate on loan
following the appointment of Alan Pardew. The 27-year-old West Ham striker
has had a medical at Loftus Road and has already agreed personal term with
the west Londoners. However, the deal has been delayed as the Hoops are now
looking to lower the terms of the loan. And Palace have since expressed a
late interest. Despite their 4-0 FA Cup third round win at non-League Dover
on Sunday, the Eagles want more firepower up front as they prepare for a
run-in relegation battle under new boss Pardew. We revealed last week that
Zarate wants first-team action after accusing the Hammers' manager Sam
Allardyce of refusing to play him. Southampton, Sunderland, Aston Villa and
Newcastle are all also keen, but Argentine Zarate is settled in London and
would prefer to join another capital club. The forward has made only eight
appearances under Allardyce, scoring twice - with one of them coming AGAINST
Palace at Selhurst Park back in August.
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Gold: "FA Cup is high priority"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has made it clear that the FA Cup remains a "big priority" for
the Irons this season and wants to see the strongest possible team take the
field at Everton tomorrow evening. The co chairman confirmed that despite
injuries and Cheik Kouyate's absence at the African Nations Cup,the board
have focused on this competition since early season. Talking exclusively to
ClaretandHugh he said: "It's always been high on our priority list and I see
no reason why we can't go up there and win. "Mark Noble will be in the side
and Enner Valencia comes in – remember he was the number one striker option
until Diafra Sakho started his heroics. "I know our record at Goodison is
bad but at some stage it has to change so why not tomorrow as Everton aren't
in the best shape."
With either Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City waiting in the fourth round,
there's plenty of incentive for the Irons. Gold said: "I'm very hopeful.
This gives players who haven't had much chance recently to make an
impression. "Unlike last year we can give it a real go with the number of
points we have gathered. I believe Sam Allardyce will put out his strongest
team possible and we are looking for a win."
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For Reid READ Upson
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It's turning into the longest farewell in West Ham history and today Sam
Allardyce appeared to raise his own hand in farewell. We can of course only
be talking about Winston Reid who now looks totally certain to be on his way
and if I'm wrong, part of me will be sorry because I'm certainly not
convinced he is the player he believes himself to be. I was totally stunned
when I realised he'd collected eight yellow cards in 19 games recently which
at any level is simply not good enough. And I fear that he may be heading in
the same direction as a couple of former irons who fancied themselves a bit,
leaving the Boleyn in haste to regret it at their leisure. Both Mohamed
Diame and Matthew Upson are prominent examples of how it can all go terribly
wrong when players or their agents over-rate themselves or their 'product.'
Upson was looking for the ultimate move after becoming captain and an
England international but instead found himself with only Stoke City ready
to employ him from where he has gone onto the dizzy pinnacles of Brighton
and Leicester City. Given his form this season Winston Reid may be the
luckiest man in the world to receive an offer of around £60k a week from the
Irons. Should he leave for the top four club he's hoping will come in but
with no evidence beyond regular press reports to support it, I can only
forsee only a slow descent. Every one of the clubs he appears to crave would
have been in a long time ago had they really believed he was worth a few
quid.
Instead any move will be made when he becomes a freebie and clubs see him as
a useful squad addition – and therein lies the rub. For despite his average
form he can be assured of regular first team football at West Ham on a more
than decent wage. Personally I believe his and his advisers' behaviour has
not been the best over recent months when it would be just as easy to say:
"We're off" but when did football and straight dealing have much to do with
each other. I won't be unhappy if he leaves as I do believe there are more
reliable central defenders out there well worth the money being offered to
him and who won't be picking up yellows virtually every other game.
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Irons in dark on Song call up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham were this afternoon insisting the club has no word from Cameroon
whether Alex Song has been called into their squad for the African Nations
Cup tournament. The Mail is currently running a story claiming that he has
now been included in the squad after being left out by boss Volker Finke
initially last month. He had fallen out of favour with their national team
following his sending off in the World Cup against Croatia and has not
played since. However, his form for the Hammers has not gone unnoticed it
seems and according to the Mail that has led Finke to perform a U turn and
call the player into the squad. The Hammers however are claiming to still be
in the dark with a source making it clear they had not been contacted by any
Cameroon officials. A source at the club explained: "We've seen the report
but we have heard absolutely nothjing from Cameroon. They have right up to
the 17th to call him up if they choose. We continue to keep everything
crossed."
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Leroy: "I cant see Irons failing at Everton"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Everton have a lot more problems than us and I am fully expecting the team
to beat them in tomorrow evening's Third Round clash at Goodison Park.
Wherever I look in the Toffees team they have issues – this is a team that
looks past it's best with the likes of Gareth Barry and Silvin Distin in
particular not the players they were. Tim Howard, Gareth Baines and Ross
Barkley don't look the part these days and Phil Jagielka doesn't look as
secure as he has been. Also I can't think of another club in the country
that would have given Samuel Eto'o a contract at this stage of his career.
All of this puts Roberto Martinez under a huge amount of pressure and I
believe the Hammers will ;pile a lot more on him by the end of the night.
I'm not at all sure Martinez even knows what his best team is. This is a
game the lads should win – given all of the above I don't believe there is a
better time to be playing Everton. Despite the absences of such as Diafra
Sakho, Cheik Kouyate and possibly Alex Song, I believe we have enough and a
way of playing that can unsettle them. The Hammers, like every other club,
has had a little dip in form and I see this as a perfect opportunity to get
back on track.
I don't see them failing.
COYI
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WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Tuesday's FA Cup Third Round tie away at
Everton
05.01.2015
EVERTON v WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
GOODISON PARK
TUESDAY 5 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: ANTHONY TAYLOR
In brief
West Ham United travel to Goodison Park for the second time this season as
they kick off their FA Cup campaign on Tuesday evening.
The Hammers lost narrowly to Roberto Martinez's men 2-1 in November when
goals from Romelu Lukaku and Leon Osman were enough to clinch the three
points despite a Mauro Zarate goal.
Everton have been hampered by injuries to key players as well as congested
fixture list which has contributed to their poor league form. The Toffees
currently sit in 13th position in the Premier League with 21 points from 20
games. In contrast, the Hammers are lying in seventh place having taken 32
points.
Fourth Round draw
The winners of this tie will travel to Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City in
the fourth round.
Who are they?
Formed from St Domingo's FC, they played their first game on 1 January 1878
in Stanley Park. They changed their name to Everton Football Club in 1879,
winning their first game under the new name 6-0 against St Peter's. Five
years later, Everton won the Liverpool Cup, their first ever cup with a 1-0
win over Earlestown.
Everton were one of the 12 founder members of the Football League in 1888,
winning their first league title at the third attempt. The Toffees moved to
Goodison Park in 1892, winning their first game 4-2 over Bolton Wanderers.
Since then, Everton have established themselves as one of the more
successful teams in Britain, winning the first division nine times as well
as an impressive five FA Cups.
More recently, trophies have been harder to come by - their last success
came in the FA Cup in the 1994/95 season. However ex-manager David Moyes
established them as one of the best teams in the Premier League, regularly
finishing in the top half and challenging for a European spot.
Team news
West Ham United
Diafra Sakho is unavailable due to a back injury sustained against West
Bromwich Albion on New Year's Day, he is currently being assessed by a
specialist to determine the extent of the injury. Fellow Senegalese
International Cheikhou Kouyate has joined up with the national team as they
prepare for their African Cup of Nations campaign. James Tomkins twisted his
ankle in training and is unlikely to be fit in time, James Collins is set to
continue alongside Winston Reid in defence.
Everton
The Toffees' injury problems have continued into the New Year with Tim
Howard (calf), Tony Hibbert (muscular injury) and Leon Osman (tendon) all
out injured. Further, Antolin Alcaraz is suspended after being sent off
against Hull City in their New Year's Day defeat while Christian Atsu is
also on international duty. Steven Pienaar (knee), Darron Gibson (knee) and
James McCarthy (hamstring) are all unfit. John Stones and Kevin Mirallas
(both ankle) are in contention to play but may not be risked.
Referee
Tuesday's referee is Anthony Taylor who has taken charge of 16 Premier
League games so far this season including the Hammers' 2-0 win over Queens
Park Rangers on Sunday 5 October 2014. Of those 16 games, the homes side has
won five times, with the away side winning seven and there have been four
draws. The assistant referees are Darren England and Michael McDonough,
Michael Jones is the Fourth Official.
Statistics
(2014/15 season - Barclays Premier League only)
Matches refereed: 16
Yellow cards shown: 67
Red cards shown: 3
Penalties awarded: 2
One to watch
West Ham United
With Cheikhou Kouyate on international duty, Mark Noble is likely to start
in the heart of midfield. The tenacious midfielder has not featured as
regularly as some may have expected as a problem with his Achilles tendon
has limited his game time.
However, now he has overcome the injury he will be raring to get back among
the thick of it.
Everton
The highly rated Ross Barkley has caught the attention of many football fans
and pundits alike with his impressive attacking ability and creative spark.
The England international has scored eight goals in 46 starts for his
boyhood club and Martinez may have a tough job keeping him on Merseyside
should his performances continue to impress.
Tickets
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's match, to purchase tickets please
click here.
Travel
For directions to Goodison Park please click here.
Weather
The temperature at kick off is forecast to be a chilly but dry 6C (42.8F).
During the day, Tuesday should be a sunny day.
Last meeting
Everton 2-1 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
Saturday 22 November 2014
Close, but no cigar for the Hammers, who gave a really spirited performance
at Goodison Park but were ultimately punished for being caught on the break
in the second half.
Following Mauro Zarate's equaliser, it looked as though the Hammers were
beginning to gain the upper hand as the closing stages approached, but it
was not to be with goals from Romelu Lukaku and Leon Osman giving the
visitors their first defeat since late September.
Everton: Howard, Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Hibbert, Osman, Mirallas (Eto'o
66), Naismith (Atsu 89), Barkley (Besic 80), Lukaku
Subs not used: Robles, Browning, Garbutt, Ledson
West Ham United: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Collins, Cresswell,
Amalfitano (Vaz Te 82), Nolan, Noble (Jarvis 52), Carroll, Cole (Zarate 51)
Subs not used: Demel, Lletget, O'Brien, Jaaskelainen
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC targets birthday victory
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll is hoping to celebrate his 26th birthday with an FA Cup win at
Everton
05.01.2015
Birthday boy Andy Carroll knows a thing or two about the FA Cup. The centre
forward scored in the third round, fifth round, semi-final and final as
Liverpool finished as runners-up to Chelsea in 2012. On Tuesday, the No9
returns to the city he called home between January 2011 and June 2013, as
West Ham United travel to Everton in the third round of the world's
most-famous knockout competition. As someone who knows first-hand how
passionate the people of Merseyside are for both football and the FA Cup,
Carroll is relishing a tie that will be played on his 26th birthday. "I've
played against Everton a few times when I was at Liverpool," he recalled.
"It's my birthday as well that day so hopefully I'll give myself a nice goal
on my birthday if I get a game! "I think it's a great competition. It gives
you a great chance of winning something. I think us as a club that's
growing, it's something we need to have in our sights. The way we're playing
at the minute I don't see why we couldn't get to the final and maybe even
win it."
Carroll came so close to doing just that three seasons ago, when he scored a
dramatic late winner in Liverpool's semi-final victory over their Merseyside
neighbours at Wembley. Unsurprisingly, he has fond memories of that day. "It
was a great feeling," he smiled. "As a derby it was massive for the fans.
The cross came in and I got my head on it. After the game it was a dream, a
lot of emotions."
The final saw Liverpool take on Chelsea. Again, Carroll found the target,
but it was not enough to deny the Blues a 2-1 success and FA Cup glory. The
striker's frustration was compounded when his 81st minute header was pushed
onto the underside of the crossbar by Petr Cech. Carroll claimed a goal, but
match officials decided it had not crossed the line. "We were getting beat
2-0 and I came on and scored," he recalled. "We got back into it and had
several chances. One chance went over the line but it wasn't given. I think
if we had goal line technology like we do now I think it would have been
given. It was a good game that we should've got something out of."
Fast forward to Tuesday evening, and Carroll believes West Ham can take
confidence from their own position in the Barclays Premier League table, as
well as their performance in a 2-1 defeat at Goodison Park back in November.
"It was a tough game and they're a great team. They've just been beaten by
Newcastle so we know they are vulnerable. The manager will show us how we
can break them down. We know how to break teams down so hopefully we can go
there and get the win. "I feel with the confidence the lads have got at the
moment and the way we're playing well, we can go through. I think it gives
the lads a big boost to know we're pretty much safe in the league and we can
give the cup a good go."
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Big Sam on: Everton
WHUFC.com
The manager held his pre-Everton press conference on Monday morning
05.01.2015
Sam Allardyce has been grateful for the five-day gap between games ahead of
Tuesday's FA Cup third round tie against Everton. The Hammers had a blank
weekend, while many of their Premier League rivals were back in action just
days after their New Year's Day fixtures. That has allowed West Ham's
players to recover ahead of their Cup showdown, in which Big Sam wants to
see a return to winning ways.
Sam, considering how well you are doing in the league at the moment, would
it be right to assume you'll be really going for the FA Cup this season?
SA: "I think that wouldn't be the case if we were playing on Saturday,
having played on Thursday. That would have been nearly impossible with the
fatigue level and I think you could see that in the QPR players. Harry tried
to play his best side for four games in a row and it didn't work and they
ended up losing 3-0 to Sheffield United. "It's not possible to play the best
team each game because of the fatigue levels. But we've had four or five
days rest which has helped so we can play a strong team. It's quite strange
playing on Tuesday night but it has given us a little bit of breathing
space. "We won't have a few players available due to the African Cup of
Nations starting soon and Diafra Sakho has got a back injury which we are
assessing."
How serious is the injury and is Sakho likely to miss the African Cup of
Nations?
SA: "We're still assessing the situation, he's seeing a specialist in London
at the moment. He's all the appropriate scans but we need to see the extent
of it. Obviously the back is a sensitive area which can take some time to
mend depending on the scenario. Until we get the full diagnosis we won't
know the right way forward."
A word on Mauro Zarate, there was talk of Crystal Palace being interested,
among other clubs, do you have any updates on the situation?
SA: "I don't to be honest. I thought it was all done and dusted with QPR but
that doesn't seem to be the case for whatever reason. When the situation has
been decided we'll deal with it from there.
If he does leave, does that create a space for you to bring someone else in?
SA: "I don't think so. What Mauro's problem is, is that he feels he hasn't
played enough here at West Ham. He feels he needs to go play somewhere else,
and if he goes elsewhere he'll have a better chance of playing. I think his
problem is that if he'd played better here, he would have played more often.
But I haven't heard of any other club that is interested in him apart from
QPR."
You've signed Doneil Henry, what can you tell us about him?
SA: "He's a player for the near future we hope. He was recommended by Ryan
Nelsen from his time at Toronto FC, who was my captain at Blackburn Rovers.
Ryan himself was a fantastic central defender. Doneil came here on a trial
and impressed us. He's only 21 so he has a lot of potential and hopefully
he'll be challenging for a place soon."
Is he a player who could replace Winston Reid?
SA: "His contract is out at the end of the year. His future is that his
contract ends on 30 June, he hasn't said that he is or isn't going to sign
at the moment. By the feel of it you'd err on the side that he won't so I
think it's unlikely. We haven't had any approaches for him in January."
How is the rest of the squad fitness wise?
SA: "James Tomkins twisted his ankle yesterday so we'll assess that one. The
three Africa Cup of Nations players won't feature so we've got a bit of a
thin squad."
Does tomorrow's game give some of the players who haven't played as much as
they might have liked to show what they can do?
SA: "Looking at the team there won't be too many changes. Mark Noble and
Kevin Nolan will play a big part. Ricardo Vaz Te might get an opportunity
and Matt Jarvis hasn't played as much as he wants to so he'll get a few more
games soon. We haven't had the results we wanted recently but I think the
performances have still been very good. We'll play the strongest team
available against Everton."
Are you surprised at how Everton have struggled this season?
SA: "No not really, considering the injuries and the amount of fixtures
they've had. They've had injuries to key players in important positions so
that always has a huge effect. Stones, Distin and Jagielka have all been out
so that really disrupts the solidarity at the back which is why they have
conceded so many goals. If there's a lack of confidence hopefully we can
exploit that."
Do you feel you can prioritise the Cup more this year than any others?
SA: "Yes because of our league position. Last year it was the bottom of our
priorities because we were concentrating on getting out of trouble while
also being in the semi-finals of the Capital One Cup."
Has the glamour of the FA Cup gone a bit?
SA: "It's hard to say, it certainly has in terms of its attendances, I think
across the board they've gone down. But overall I don't think it has. It's a
great tournament with the opportunity of playing at Wembley at the end. I
remember watching it from the age of about eight or nine and the chances of
an underdog beating a big boy hasn't lost its glamour. There hasn't been so
many shocks in this round but the glamour is still there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad 1-0 Leicester
WHUFC.com
Minute-by-minute updates as the Dev Squad beat Leicester City 1-0 at Rush
Green
05.01.2015
DEVELOPMENT SQUAD v LEICESTER CITY U21
BARCLAYS U21 PREMIER LEAGUE
RUSH GREEN STADIUM
MONDAY 05 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7 PM
REFEREE: NEIL HAIR
FT: Dev Squad 1-0 Leciester City
FT: The Dev Squad have done it! Parfitt-Williams with a crucial goal seals a
win just when a draw looked like the most likely outcome. The Dev Squad are
in action again this Friday against London rivals Tottenham Hostpur, kick
off 7pm from Rush Green.
92: A lot of tired legs out their now, but can they hold out?
90: Good hold up play by Turgott wastes a few seconds before Lletget buys a
free-kick off Leicester. Not long left to go.
88: The Hammers have got the ball exactly where they want it, right in the
far corner. They work it to Lletget who tries to curl it to the far post.
87: The Foxes have had the wind knocked out of their sails with that goal,
the Hammers have certainly been given a lift. Just a few minutes to hold out
for a vital win.
84: GOAL! 1-0 to the Hammers. Djair Parfitt-Williams gets his head to
another cross from Bywater and it flies into the far corner. A fine goal for
the youngster!
83: Turgott breaks again but his pass is tired and it is easily cut out.
Leicester break with a four on three in their favour, Oxford cuts it out
well.
81: Lewis Page is nailed by Jak McCourt who quite rightly goes into the book
for that challenge.
80: Another great delivery from Bywater, straight into the six-yard box
which goes agonizingly close to Parfitt-Williams. Any connection and it
would have gone in.
78: Bywater floats a terrific ball into the box which Brown attacks. It
falls just wide of the post via a deflection. Corner.
77: Into under the last 15 minutes here. Leicester have looked more
threatening in this second period yet the Hammers know they still in with a
chance.
75: Reece Burke does superbly to bring the ball from the half way line right
to Leicester's box, he tries to play in Brown but the linesman flags him for
offside, another tight call.
73: Djair Parfitt-Williams is coming on for Matty Fanimo who looked like he
had picked up a knock. The two U18s leading goal scorers are on for the
Hammers now, can they find their prolific form tonight?
71: Lletget volleys a dropping clearance which is blocked for a corner.
Jordan Brown almost gets to it at the back post.
70: Lewis Page is on in place of Dan Potts.
68: Dodoo tries his luck from distance, Howes sees it early and allows it go
wide of his post. Leicester have been on top for the majority of this second
half.
65: Hopper almosts scores as his neat flick falls dangerously close to the
near post, good invention from th Foxes' striker.
64: Potts throws himself in front of a shot from Barrington, excellent
defending from the left-back, good to see him back out on the pitch after a
lengthy injury.
62: Fanimo bursts to the by-line but his clipped cross narrowly evades
everyone and is headed out and away.
60: Panayiotou's snap shot goes just wide of Howes' post, the goalkeeper
looked to have it covered anyway.
58: Jordan Brown is on in place Paul McCallum.
56: Dan Potts is caught in posession resulting in Barrington running down on
the Hammers' area. Bywater trips the striker and goes into the book. Taking
one for the team.
53: Marcel Barrington is on in place of Louis Rowley.
51: The Hammers break down the right wing with Turgott who slides a good
ball in to McCallum. Elliot Moore slides in to clear the danger.
48: Lletget is flagged for offside despite looking well on. He and his
teammates look disgusted at the decision as he was clean through.
46: Both teams are back out on the pitch and we're about to resume play. A
big 45 minutes ahead for both sides, the Hammers really needs to find a way
through. Ben Chilwell has replaced Joe Davis in a like-for-like swap at
left-back.
HT: Half way here at Rush Green, both chances have had two good chances to
break the deadlock yet both goalkeepers have defended their clean sheets
admirably. A long way to go still.
41: Free kick for the Hammers in a dangerous position after Lletget was
fouled. The referee adjudges that Leicester's goalkeeper was fouled and they
clear it upfield.
39: Just a moment later and Leicester should really take the lead.
Panayiotou is through but he pokes it wide. Al real let off for the Hammers
there.
38: Jack McCourt stings the palms of Howes with a rasping shot from the edge
of the box. Bit of pressure from the visitors here.
34: Jack Barmby is away down the left flank. Trouble for the Hammers but
Howes dives forward to collect the cross, good goalkeeping from the young
shot-stopper.
31: Good sliding tackle by Reece Burke is stop Hopper making any progress
into the box.
28: Turgott's pace is causing the Foxes real problems. Again Lletget looks
to play Turgott in behind the defence, he sprints to keep up but Smith is
quick off his line to collect the ball. Half-hearted appeals for a penalty
which the referee waves away.
24: McCallum is adjudged to have fouled Elder. The resulting free-kick
causes a few more defensive problems until Burke brings the ball out
expertly, he tries to set Fanimo free but the ball is just over hit.
22: Free-kick to West Ham in a dangerous position, Fanimo to swing it
in...however he over hits it and the goalkeeper collects without any bother.
19: Chance for the visitors as a long throw bu Joe Davis causes the defence
all kinds of problems. Harry Panayiotou heads goalwards and Sam Howes has to
spring into action to save his team.
17: Turgott tries his luck from the edge of the box and he connects well.
The ball swings a bit in the air before Smith clutches it.
15: Smart work from Blair Turgott in a tight space wins his side a corner,
Leicester have got everyone back to defend this.
13: A frantic start here at Rush Green with both teams chasing a win that
they both need. The Hammers have shaded it so far but the Foxes look
dangerous on the break.
10: Great chance for the Hammers to take the lead as Matthias Fanimo is sent
through on goal by a glorious pass. He beats his man for pace but the
goalkeeper Adam Smith stays big and and saves well.
9: Lletget sets Turgott free down the right wing, his drilled cross is cut
out by the first man.
7: Dan Potts choses safety first as he clears it out for a throw in. He wins
the resulting header and clears up field.
5: Another chance for the Hammers as again they break through Lletget, his
cross is cut out for a corner. From the resulting corner, Leicester
eventually scramble it away after Reece Oxford's header was goal bound.
2: Bright start for the Hammers. McCallum knocks on to Lletget who plays the
No9 back in. Unfortunately the linesman has his flag raised and Leicester
get posession.
0: We're off! West Ham United get us under way with Paul McCallum from the
kick off.
It's a surprisingly mild night here at Rush Green, the floodlights are on
and the fans are beginning to
Both teams are out on the pitch warming up, we've got just over half an hour
until kick off.
Leicester City go into this game on the back of a good run having won four
of their last six games, including a 6-2 win over Manchester City and a 3-2
away win over Manchester United.
Academy Director Terry Westley makes four changes to the starting XI that
lost 4-1 away to Newcastle United. Amos Nasha, Reece Oxford, Blair Turgott
and Matthias Fanimo come in for Diego Poyet, Kieran Sadlier, Danny Whitehead
and Lewis Page.
West Ham United: Howes (GK), Westley, Potts © (Page 70), Nasha, Burke,
Oxford, Turgott, Bywater, McCallum (J. Brown 58), Lletget, Fanimo
(Parfitt-Williams 73)
Subs: Whitehead, Boness
Leicester City: Smith, Davis, Elder, McCourt, Sesay, Moore, Barmby, Rowley,
Hopper (c), Panayiotou, Dodoo
Subs: Chilwell, Maddison, Scott, Ndukwu, Barrington
In effect, this is a must win game for both as we reach towards half way
mark of the season.
Tonight's game is huge for both teams as they currently sit at the wrong end
of the table. The Hammers are currently bottom of the Barclays U21 Premier
League with five points from their opening games, meanwhile tonight's
visitors, the Foxes, are only three points better off in eleventh place with
eight points.
Hello and welcome to tonight's live coverage from Rush Green as West Ham
United's Development Squad take on Leicester City U21 in their first game of
2015.
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce predicts Winston Reid exit
BBC.co.uk
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says he expects Winston Reid to leave the
club when the central defender's contract expires at the end of June. Reid
has been in negotiations over a new deal with the Hammers but Allardyce does
not think the 26-year-old will extend his stay. "It's highly unlikely
Winston is going to sign for us based on what people have said to me," said
Allardyce. Reid has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Liverpool. The New
Zealand international joined West Ham from Danish side FC Midtjylland in
August 2010 and has developed into one of the club's key players. Allardyce
said no approaches had been made for Reid so far in the January transfer
window.
He added: "There is no future for Winston Reid at West Ham at the moment as
his contract finishes on 30 June. He hasn't said he is or isn't going to
sign. "You would err on the back that he isn't, by the feel and look of it,
at this moment in time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Doncaster or Bristol City await in the FA Cup fourth round
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will face either Doncaster or Bristol City in the next round of the
FA Cup, should they overcome Everton at Goodison Park tomorrow night.
The draw, made this evening at Wimbledon FC pitched Everton or the Hammers
away to either League One Doncaster or Championship Bristol City, who drew
1-1 at the Keepmoat Stadium on Saturday.
All ties will be played between 24-27 January. The full fourth round draw
was as follows:
Southampton or Ipswich Town v Crystal Palace
Cambridge United v Manchester United
Blackburn Rovers v Swansea City
Chelsea v Millwall or Bradford City
Derby County v Scunthorpe or Chesterfield
Preston North End v Sheffield United
Birmingham City v West Bromwich Albion
Aston Villa v AFC Bournemouth
Cardiff City v Reading
AFC Wimbledon or Liverpool v Bolton Wanderers
Burnley or Tottenham v Leicester City
Brighton & Hove Albion v Arsenal
Rochdale v Stoke City
Sunderland v Fulham or Wolves
Doncster or Bristol City v West Ham United
Manchester City v Middlesbrough
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho to miss AFCON through injury?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Hammers striker Diafra Sakho could miss the entire African Cup of Nations
tournament as a result of the injury he sustained against West Brom on New
Year's Day. As revealed here on KUMB last week, Sakho was sent for a scan on
his back following West Ham's 1-1 draw with West Brom at the Boleyn on the
opening day of 2015. And whilst those procedures have already taken place,
Sam Allardyce confirmed this morning that the extent of the damage remains
unknown presently. "We're still assessing the situation, he's seeing a
specialist in London at the moment," he said. "He's all the appropriate
scans but we need to see the extent of it. "Obviously the back is a
sensitive area which can take some time to mend depending on the scenario.
Until we get the full diagnosis we won't know the right way forward."
Sakho has been in sparkling form since moving to England last August,
scoring nine times in his first 15 appearances for West Ham United. He first
suffered a back problem when on international duty back in November and
missed three games as a result. Allardyce was particularly annoyed with the
way Sakho's injury was handled and labelled the way it was handled by
Senegal's medical team as "outrageous", adding that the injury had been
"mistreated so badly".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zarate out in the cold as Redknapp cools interest
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Harry Redknapp has once again dismissed reports that Mauro Zarate is on his
way to Queens Park Rangers. On New Year's Day it was revealed that the
Argentine's planned move to Loftus Road could be off, with rumours of a
failed medical arising from the KUMB Forum. Redknapp, when questioned,
replied that he was "not sure" or the current situation. Little appears to
have changed in west London over the course of the proceeding four days as
when asked about Zarate again this morning, Redknapp reiterated that the
striker was no closer to a move to Rangers. "We're not close to doing any
deals at all. Not a thing," he told the media. "We're looking for loans and
I really haven't got a clue as to where we're going to find any at the
moment. "I don't know where you find anybody on loan at this time of year.
Who are you going to find on loan who is going to come and make a big
difference to your team? "It's very difficult."
Ironically perhaps Zarate would have almost certainly started for West Ham
at Everton tomorrow night had he not spoken out against manager Sam
Allardyce, who he claimed was failing to utilise him correctly. Diafra Sakho
is definitely out with a back injury whilst Andy Carroll is a doubt having
complained of tightness in an ankle, following three successive starts over
the Christmas period. That leaves Allardyce with only Enner Valencia,
Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te - who last played for the first team in the
2-1 Premier League defeat at Goodison Park on 22 November - as fit strikers.
Allardyce himself was nonplussed when asked about the ongoing Zarate
situation during his press conference this morning. "I thought it was all
done and dusted with QPR but that doesn't seem to be the case for whatever
reason," he replied. "His problem is that if he'd played better here, he
would have played more often. But I haven't heard of any other club that is
interested in him apart from QPR."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce to field "strong" team for Everton trip
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has revealed that he will be putting out a strong a side as
possible when the Hammers travel to Merseyside tomorrow to face struggling
Everton in the third round of the FA Cup. The hosts, unusually camped in the
lower half of the Premier League took just one point from their three
Christmas games - although of course West Ham fared little better, taking
just the one (WBA at home). However any concerns that Allardyce will rest
key players in order to boost his chances of winning United's next Premier
League clash at Swansea this weekend have been dispelled by the manager. As
revealed here on KUMB last week, Allardyce will be without Cheik Kouyate,
Diafra Sakho and Alex Song. However he still intends to field the best team
he possibly can. "It's not possible to play the best team each game because
of the fatigue levels," he told the media at this morning's pre-match press
conference. "But we've had four or five days rest which has helped, so we
can play a strong team. "It's quite strange playing on Tuesday night but it
has given us a little bit of breathing space. That wouldn't be the case if
we were playing on Saturday, having played on Thursday. That would have been
nearly impossible with fatigue.
"Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan will play a big part. Ricardo Vaz Te might get
an opportunity and Matt Jarvis hasn't played as much as he wants to so he'll
get a few more games soon. We'll play the strongest team available."
One player who definitely won't be available is Mauro Zarate, who is
currently in limbo having signalled his intentions to leave the Boleyn
Ground. Despite having been set to sign for QPR last week, he remains a West
Ham player. None the wiser apparently, is his manager. " I thought it was
all done and dusted with QPR but that doesn't seem to be the case for
whatever reason," said Allardyce. "When the situation has been decided we'll
deal with it from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Pardew looks to hijack Zarate QPR move
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 5th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers boss Alan Pardew's is set to hijack (former Hammers boss)
Harry Redknapp's bid to sign Mauro Zarate on loan from West Ham, according
to reports. The unhappy forward appeared set to complete a loan move to the
west London club last week. However last weekend a member of KUMB's Forum
claimed that there had been a problem with Zarate's medical. Subsequently,
Harry Redknapp refused to confirm that the signing would proceed whilst no
official word has been given over the hold up, lending weight to the
aforementioned speculation.
And now the Mirror claim that Pardew, who officially returned to Selhurst
Park last weekend is keen to snatch Zarate from Redknapp's grasp. Pardew,
whose Palace side are desperately short of firepower would be able to offer
Zarate first team football, which he claims is his primary reason for
wanting to leave the Boleyn Ground.
* Rumours that West Ham may be interested in signing Swansea's combative
midfielder Jonjo Shelvey were dismissed earlier today by the son of co-owner
David Sullivan on Twitter. Speculation that the Romford-born player was on
the verge of signing for the Hammers spread this afternoon via social media,
after someone posted a photograph of a vehicle in the Boleyn Ground car park
said to belong to Shelvey.
However a later message posted via the Twitter account belonging to Jack
Sullivan dismissed the rumours - without refuting suggestions that the car
was in fact Shelvey's.
Jack Sullivan @jsullivanwhu
Jonjo Shelveys is not signing for west ham, despite photos of his car being
outside Upton park
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MORE FROM THE SUPPORTERS ADVISORY BOARD
By Iain Dale 5 Jan 2015 at 22:09
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Safe Hands
There were a few other snippets that I wanted to tell you from the meeting
on 9 December, and even though most of them have surfaced in other
discussions, I thought I'd list them out as Iain's asked for articles.
(There's nothing like setting up a high level of expection for a read is
there?)
• The club want to engage with the fanbase more and give supporters
the opportunity to participate/feedback via Facebook, Twitter, email shots,
and the SAB. Looking at that list, I'd say the more static and less speedy
of these is the SAB (be nice people!).
• The club have adjusted the remit of the SAB as most of the high
activity of going to the OS has now taken place although there is still more
to be done. They have said they will be much more transparent and that when
they tell us something, it will also be published on the website. They have
also halved the number of SAB members and it now stands at 66 – the full
list is HERE
• The club have now employed a Supporter Liaison Officer, James
Rutherford, who will act as the fulcrum for fans' responses and the club's
'go-to' person to garner supporter opinion. FYI He is an ex-SAB member.
• The official website's going to be a changed early in the new year.
• There's going to be another Fan Forum in February – details will be
on the main site idc.
• Moving to the OS – information will be released in January as to how
the seat transition is going to be handled as well as how people can arrange
to sit together. The first appointments to meet with fans to discuss their
new seats will be in April. Despite being questioned, they wouldn't give us
any more information than that.
FYI Many thanks for all your responses to my post about the shirts for our
last season at The Boleyn. I've put them together and sent them to the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set for Alex Song blow with star midfielder set to join Cameroon
for Africa Cup of Nations
Jan 05, 2015 17:00 By Darren Lewis
Song has not yet confirmed that he is set to leave for the tournament but he
is understood currently to be in Cameroon holding talks with key figures in
the national set up
The Mirror
West Ham are steeling themselves for confirmation that Alex Song IS set to
jet off to the Africa Cup of Nations after all. The u-turn is set to come as
a massive blow to the east Londoners' outside hopes of challenging for
Europe. They currently sit seventh in the Premier League, four points off
Southampton in fourth. Song has not yet confirmed that he is set to leave
for the tournament but he is understood currently to be in Cameroon holding
talks with key figures within the country's football federation, who do want
him back. MirrorFootball exclusively revealed last week that the nation was
poised to stage a change of heart over the Hammers' star midfielder, on loan
from Barcelona. Lions' Head Coach Volker Finke left the Irons delighted
before Christmas when he left the 27-year-old out of his squad for the
competition which begins on January 17.
Song has been out of Finke's plans since being sent off at the World Cup
against Croatia last summer. He has impressed hugely since his summer move
to West Ham, however, and Finke is understood to have been pressured by his
country's top brass into changing his mind.
Feelers were put out to Song two weeks ago and the player has responded
favourably to his country reaching out. It means, however, that he is set to
miss West Ham's upcoming Premier League games at Swansea and at home to
Hull, along with their FA Cup Fourth Round tie should they make it past
Everton tomorrow night. Should Cameroon make it to the AFCON quarter-finals
or beyond, Song will also be out of the massive League games against
Liverpool and Manchester United. West Ham are already set to lose Cheikhou
Kouyate to Senegal while that country's top-scorer Diafra Sakho is suffering
from a back problem which means he will unavailable to the club even if he
doesn't join up with his national side.
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Arsenal transfer target Winston Reid has ''no future'' at West Ham, admits
Sam Allardyce
Jan 05, 2015 11:35 By Neil McLeman
It is "highly unlikely" that Reid - who has also been linked with Manchester
United - will stay beyond the summer, insists the Hammers boss
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has admitted it is "highly unlikely" that Winston Reid will
sign a new contract at West Ham. The New Zealand defender is out of contract
at the end of the season and is refusing to sign a new deal. Arsenal and
Manchester United have been linked with signing the centre-back in the
summer. And before tomorrow's FA Cup tie at Everton, the Irons boss said:
"There is no future for Winston Reid at West Ham United at the moment
because his contract finishes. "The only thing is that his contract finishes
June 30. He hasn't said he is going to sign and he hasn't said he is isn't.
"But you would you err on the side that he isn't by the feel and the look of
it at this moment in time, by the know-how in the football world I have been
talking to - other managers and so forth about the situation so I would say
it is highly unlikely that Winston is going to sign for us based on what
people are saying to me." Allardyce has previously stated he would not sell
Reid in this transfer window for less than £20m. "We have had no
approaches," he said.
Diafra Sakho could be forced out of the African Nations Cup with the back
injury he suffered on international duty in November. The Senegal striker
had been due to join up with his country for the tournament in Equitorial
Guinea but Allardyce said: "He is being assessed at this moment by the
specialist in London. "He has had all the appropriate scans. We need to sit
down and assess the extent of the injury - has it got any worse since the
last time? Is it the same? With a back, it is a delicate scenario. "Until we
get the full diagnosis from the specialist today, we won't know which will
be the way forward."
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Crystal Palace plot transfer hijack of Mauro Zarate's move to QPR from West
Ham
Jan 04, 2015 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Striker has had a medical and agreed terms with the Rs but HASN'T signed on
loan and now their relegation-fight rivals from across London hope to swoop
in
The Mirror
Crystal Palace are ready to hijack QPR's bid to sign Mauro Zarate on loan
following the appointment of Alan Pardew. The 27-year-old West Ham striker
has had a medical at Loftus Road and has already agreed personal term with
the west Londoners. However, the deal has been delayed as the Hoops are now
looking to lower the terms of the loan. And Palace have since expressed a
late interest. Despite their 4-0 FA Cup third round win at non-League Dover
on Sunday, the Eagles want more firepower up front as they prepare for a
run-in relegation battle under new boss Pardew. We revealed last week that
Zarate wants first-team action after accusing the Hammers' manager Sam
Allardyce of refusing to play him. Southampton, Sunderland, Aston Villa and
Newcastle are all also keen, but Argentine Zarate is settled in London and
would prefer to join another capital club. The forward has made only eight
appearances under Allardyce, scoring twice - with one of them coming AGAINST
Palace at Selhurst Park back in August.
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Gold: "FA Cup is high priority"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has made it clear that the FA Cup remains a "big priority" for
the Irons this season and wants to see the strongest possible team take the
field at Everton tomorrow evening. The co chairman confirmed that despite
injuries and Cheik Kouyate's absence at the African Nations Cup,the board
have focused on this competition since early season. Talking exclusively to
ClaretandHugh he said: "It's always been high on our priority list and I see
no reason why we can't go up there and win. "Mark Noble will be in the side
and Enner Valencia comes in – remember he was the number one striker option
until Diafra Sakho started his heroics. "I know our record at Goodison is
bad but at some stage it has to change so why not tomorrow as Everton aren't
in the best shape."
With either Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City waiting in the fourth round,
there's plenty of incentive for the Irons. Gold said: "I'm very hopeful.
This gives players who haven't had much chance recently to make an
impression. "Unlike last year we can give it a real go with the number of
points we have gathered. I believe Sam Allardyce will put out his strongest
team possible and we are looking for a win."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
For Reid READ Upson
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It's turning into the longest farewell in West Ham history and today Sam
Allardyce appeared to raise his own hand in farewell. We can of course only
be talking about Winston Reid who now looks totally certain to be on his way
and if I'm wrong, part of me will be sorry because I'm certainly not
convinced he is the player he believes himself to be. I was totally stunned
when I realised he'd collected eight yellow cards in 19 games recently which
at any level is simply not good enough. And I fear that he may be heading in
the same direction as a couple of former irons who fancied themselves a bit,
leaving the Boleyn in haste to regret it at their leisure. Both Mohamed
Diame and Matthew Upson are prominent examples of how it can all go terribly
wrong when players or their agents over-rate themselves or their 'product.'
Upson was looking for the ultimate move after becoming captain and an
England international but instead found himself with only Stoke City ready
to employ him from where he has gone onto the dizzy pinnacles of Brighton
and Leicester City. Given his form this season Winston Reid may be the
luckiest man in the world to receive an offer of around £60k a week from the
Irons. Should he leave for the top four club he's hoping will come in but
with no evidence beyond regular press reports to support it, I can only
forsee only a slow descent. Every one of the clubs he appears to crave would
have been in a long time ago had they really believed he was worth a few
quid.
Instead any move will be made when he becomes a freebie and clubs see him as
a useful squad addition – and therein lies the rub. For despite his average
form he can be assured of regular first team football at West Ham on a more
than decent wage. Personally I believe his and his advisers' behaviour has
not been the best over recent months when it would be just as easy to say:
"We're off" but when did football and straight dealing have much to do with
each other. I won't be unhappy if he leaves as I do believe there are more
reliable central defenders out there well worth the money being offered to
him and who won't be picking up yellows virtually every other game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons in dark on Song call up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham were this afternoon insisting the club has no word from Cameroon
whether Alex Song has been called into their squad for the African Nations
Cup tournament. The Mail is currently running a story claiming that he has
now been included in the squad after being left out by boss Volker Finke
initially last month. He had fallen out of favour with their national team
following his sending off in the World Cup against Croatia and has not
played since. However, his form for the Hammers has not gone unnoticed it
seems and according to the Mail that has led Finke to perform a U turn and
call the player into the squad. The Hammers however are claiming to still be
in the dark with a source making it clear they had not been contacted by any
Cameroon officials. A source at the club explained: "We've seen the report
but we have heard absolutely nothjing from Cameroon. They have right up to
the 17th to call him up if they choose. We continue to keep everything
crossed."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: "I cant see Irons failing at Everton"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Everton have a lot more problems than us and I am fully expecting the team
to beat them in tomorrow evening's Third Round clash at Goodison Park.
Wherever I look in the Toffees team they have issues – this is a team that
looks past it's best with the likes of Gareth Barry and Silvin Distin in
particular not the players they were. Tim Howard, Gareth Baines and Ross
Barkley don't look the part these days and Phil Jagielka doesn't look as
secure as he has been. Also I can't think of another club in the country
that would have given Samuel Eto'o a contract at this stage of his career.
All of this puts Roberto Martinez under a huge amount of pressure and I
believe the Hammers will ;pile a lot more on him by the end of the night.
I'm not at all sure Martinez even knows what his best team is. This is a
game the lads should win – given all of the above I don't believe there is a
better time to be playing Everton. Despite the absences of such as Diafra
Sakho, Cheik Kouyate and possibly Alex Song, I believe we have enough and a
way of playing that can unsettle them. The Hammers, like every other club,
has had a little dip in form and I see this as a perfect opportunity to get
back on track.
I don't see them failing.
COYI
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