Preview - Everton
WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about West Ham's FA Cup replay with Everton
12.01.2015
WEST HAM UNITED v EVERTON
FA CUP THIRD ROUND REPLAY
BOLEYN GROUND
TUESDAY 13 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: NEIL SWARBRICK
In brief
West Ham United host Everton in their FA Cup Third Round Replay at the
Boleyn Ground with both sides looking to progress to the Fourth Round where
the winners will face either Bristol City or Doncaster Rovers.
The Hammers were minutes away from victory as James Collins' second half
header was cancelled out by Romelu Lukaku's stoppage time equaliser in the
first running of this tie.
The Hammers lost narrowly to Roberto Martinez's men 2-1 in November when
goals from 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 this term and
currently sit 12th in the Premier League with 22 points from 21 games. In
contrast, the Hammers are lying in seventh place having taken 33 points.
West Ham United and Everton have been drawn to face one another eight times
previously in the FA Cup, with each club progressing on four occasions.
Fourth Round draw
The winners of this tie will travel to Doncaster Rovers or Bristol City in
the fourth round, with that match to be played on Sunday 25 January.
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 there 4-2 over Bolton
Wanderers.
Since then, Everton have established themselves as one of the more
successful teams in England, 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 still unavailable due to a back injury sustained against
West Bromwich Albion on New Year's Day. Alex Song, who missed Saturday's
trip to Swansea City due to illness, has recovered and is back in the squad.
Senegalese International Cheikhou Kouyate has joined up with the national
team as they prepare for their African Cup of Nations campaign.
Everton Everton have several injury concerns to worry about.
Steven Pienaar (knee), Leon Osman (goot), Sylvain Distin gGroin) and Darron
Gibson (knee) are all out as are first team regulars Tim Howard (calf) and
James McCarthy (hamstring).
Referee
Tuesday's referee is Neil Swarbrick. The Lancashire based referee officiated
in West Ham's narrow 2-1 defeat to Arsenal in late December.
Swarbrick's last appearance in the FA Cup was Bournemouth's 5-1 rout of
Rotherham United on Saturday 3 January.
Tuesday's Assistant Referees are Michael Mullarkey and Andrew Halliday, the
Fourth Official is Lee Probert.
Statistics
(2014/15 season - Barclays Premier League only)
Matches refereed: 12
Yellow cards shown: 50
Red cards shown: 1
Penalties awarded: 2
One to watch
West Ham United
Following his superb goal against Swansea City at the weekend, Andy Carroll
will be full of confidence for Tuesday night. The England international has
scored four league goals since returning from injury and will be looking to
open his Cup account having missed the original tie.
Everton
Powerful striker Romelu Lukaku has proved to be a thorn in the Hammers side
this season, scoring twice already. The threat the Belgian international
poses is now well established, however dealing with his pace and strength is
another matter. Yet that is exactly what the defence will have to do if they
are to progress to the next round.
Tickets
Tickets are still available for Tuesday's match, and can be purchased at the
turnstile on the night.
Travel
Please be aware a 24 hour bus strike has been announced starting at 4am on
Tuesday. For information on how this may affect your travel plans, click
here.
No engineering work is planned on the District or Hammersmith & City lines.
Up-to-the-minute
Weather
The temperature at kick off is forecast to be a chilly 5C (41F) with a
chance of rain in the first half.
Last meeting
West Ham United 2-3 Everton
Barclays Premier League
Saturday 21 September 2013
The Hammers took a first-half lead through a deflected Ravel Morrison shot
before Leighton Baines equalised in the 62nd minute.
West Ham looked to have sealed the three points when Mark Noble scored from
the penalty spot. However, the midfielder was given a second booking just
five minutes later which the Toffees exploited. Baines scored his second of
the afternoon with a rasping free-kick before Romelu Lukaku put the Blues in
front on 85 miniutes.
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Reid, Rat, O'Brien, Collins, Nolan (Taylor
80) Jarvis (Vaz Te 72), Morrison, Noble, Diame, Maiga (Petric 63)
Subs not used: Adrian, McCartney, Tomkins, Collison
Everton: Howard, Baines, Jagielka, Distin, Coleman, Mirallas, Barry,
Barkley, Osman (Oviedo 52), Jelavic (McCarthy 45), Naismith (Lukaku 45)
Subs not used: Robles, Heitinga, Stones, Deulofeu
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Big Sam on: Everton
WHUFC.com
The manager faced the press ahead of Tuesday's FA Cup replay against Everton
12.01.2015
Sam Allardyce was back at Chadwell Heath on Monday morning, after the
manager missed the trip to Swansea City at the weekend due to a chest
infection. Returning to health he is ready to take the team for Tuesday's FA
Cup replay against Everton and he faced the press ahead of the game to
answer questions on Andy Carroll, team news and more.
Morning Sam, how are you feeling, any better?
SA: "Not 100% but getting there. The antibiotics seem to have worked."
Bit of medicine from Andy Carroll on the weekend?
SA: "Yes, I had it live on a stream. It was a fantastic piece of skill and a
brilliant finish from the time he first touched it to the shot. I was
speaking to Teddy who said he had seven touches in the box before he scored,
you don't usually get that many touches. He manipulated the ball brilliantly
and it was a fantastic, fabulous finish."
It wasn't something we generally expect from him, has he been hiding
something from us?
SA: "No, he's smashed a few spectacular goals in before for us. I think he
scored a better one last season, a right-foot volley over his shoulder as he
swivelled. That was a superb piece of technique. His goal at the weekend put
us in a fantastic position and all the lads were disappointed we didn't hold
on to the lead."
There might be calls for him to get back into the England squad if he
continues this form, is that fair enough?
SA: "I think there are a lot of contenders for the England forwards position
which as an Englishman is very pleasing. It gives Roy Hodgson a lot of
options which is good. He's a very hard player to play against and if he
continues to keep fit and score goals I don't see why not. He's been on the
fringes of the squad before and then got injured so hopefully he stays fit
and we'll have to wait and see."
You could have done without a replay, but a Cup run would help to keep the
momentum going?
SA: "We were very close when we played at Everton. Everton getting a draw
against the champions Manchester City shows how good we were. Tomorrow won't
be cut and dry, we know it will be a hard game. When the opportunities come,
we need to take them because there's it'll be played to a finish. We have to
make sure we come out of it without having wasted our energy."
Any movement on Winston Reid since we last saw you?
SA: "No movement on Winston Reid at all, no.
There is a choice for you, if a big offer comes in?
SA: "There's no choice for me, he stays. That's it. It would have to be a
big offer, and obviously then the Chairmen decide. For me, he stays. The way
the club has improved over the last few years as well as having a very big
future with the new Stadium, it could be bigger than it's ever been over the
next four, five years."
Does the Hull game on Sunday have any effect on your team selection for
tomorrow?
SA: "No it doesn't. I think we have sufficient recovery time in between
games. Neither team will want extra time but the way we've recovered after
games so far has been good, as we saw against Swansea after recovering
against Everton. I thought we gave a good account of ourselves. The only
thing you worry about is injuries, thankfully we don't have many. We have a
few knocks and bruises but hopefully they'll have cleared up by Tuesday
morning."
How much of a concern is it that you're not maintaining the lead and seeing
out games?
SA: "It's a concern, we are not as free scoring as we were. The results have
dipped a bit but the performances haven't. One thing that has to happen is
we get to more resilient defensively. We've been talking about that all
season. We're becoming a much more creative side but our defensive
weaknesses have been exploited too much. "In order to win football games you
need to make sure you're strong enough in both departments. We've only had
four clean sheets so far and that's not good enough to keep you in the top
six. If you look at Southampton, they're up there because they've had 11
clean sheets in 21 games. That's why they're in the top four and we're not."
Are you a fan of Roberto Martinez's style and philosophy of football?
SA: "I think every manager has their own philosophy. I'm a little bit more
flexible than Roberto. I think he's a total believer in the one style, but
my experience has taught me you need to be flexible. You need to play to the
strengths of the players you have, whatever that may be. You may have a
philosophy but you need to change it to the players you have, not the other
way round.
"While Everton are having a sticky patch I'm not sure it's down to Roberto's
philosophy it's about players performing to the best of their abilities. I
think because Everton have had the extra games with the Europa League, those
demands have taken their toll. They've found it difficult to cope,
especially with the injuries they've had. Injuries are the biggest obstacle
you face unfortunately, it can cost you your job. My old mate Steve Bruce is
in that predicament at the moment."
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Loan watch
WHUFC.com
Find out how West Ham United's loanees fared in England and France this
weekend
12.01.2015
Young Hammers forward Sean Maguire was without a game this weekend after
Accrington Stanley's Sky Bet League Two clash with Bury was postponed on
Friday evening.
Over the Channel, Modibo Maiga was not involved as FC Metz secured a 0-0
draw at Nantes in the French Ligue Un.
Back home, TIm Brown and Taylor Tombides played as Canvey Island were
defeated 2-1 at home by Maidstone United in the Ryman Premier League.
Alex Brown and Matt Bodkin's goals for the visitors meant Jack Simmons' late
reply counted for little.
Finally, Jaanai Gordon's (pictured) Chelmsford City suffered a 3-1 defeat at
Weston-super-Mare in Vanarama South.
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New Stadium seat selection FAQs
WHUFC.com
All the key questions answered on West Ham United's new Stadium seat
selection plans
11.01.2015
Following the announcement of West Ham United's new Stadium seat selection
plans, the Club answer all the key questions for supporters. The detailed
FAQs below cover these five topics:
• New Stadium seat selection plans
• Selecting seats at the new Stadium
• Buying Season Tickets
• Sitting with friends and family
• Attending the Reservation Centre
How will Season Ticket Holders be allocated seats at the new Stadium?
The Club have worked carefully to ensure that the seat allocation process
works in the interests of all our loyal Season Ticket Holders.
The priorities are:
• That every existing Season Ticket Holder is offered a comparable seat in
the new Stadium to the one they have for the final season at the Boleyn
Ground.
• That they are able to group their seats together with friends and family.
Additionally, Season Ticket Holders will have the opportunity to bring with
them up to two other individuals as new Season Ticket Holders.
In planning a process to meet those priorities, the Club have had three
guiding principles:
Fairness - the process must be fair, so the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in each band are equally protected.
Transparency - the process must be clear to all supporters, so that all can
understand what is happening, when and why.
Efficiency - the process must be efficient, so that the 40,000 supporters
expected through the Reservation Centre doors have enough time to enjoy
their appointments and make a fair decision in good time before August 2016.
On the basis of those priorities and principles, the process will work as
follows:
• Every Season Ticket Holder will be offered a comparable seat at the new
Stadium, based on the price band and location of their seat for the final
season at the Boleyn Ground.
• Season Ticket Holders will receive their Reservation Centre appointments
and select their seats in order of price band, from band 1 to band 4, so it
is clear at each stage what seats are available in higher price bands,
should supporters wish to upgrade.
• Every Season Ticket Holder will therefore be offered first refusal on the
best available seats in their equivalent price band, before those seats are
made available to supporters in any other bands.
• Subject to availability, all Season Ticket Holders will be given the
opportunity to upgrade their ticket in the new Stadium to a seat in a higher
price band.
• Supporters who wish to move down a price band will be able to do so;
however, only after all supporters in that price band have had the
opportunity to select their seat.
Reservation Centre appointment timings
Selecting seats in the new Stadium
How do I select my seat for the new Stadium?
Each Season Ticket Holder will be offered a personal appointment at the New
Stadium Reservation Centre in Westfield Stratford City, where they will
select their seat with the help of a Club adviser. Using state-of-the-art
Virtual Venue technology, supporters will be shown the views from the seats
available to them and the advisers will be able to answer all their
questions, from sightlines and transport to Stadium access and facilities.
How will the order of appointments within each price band be decided?
The order of appointments for Season Ticket Holders within each band will be
based on the quality of the current sightline for each seat at the Boleyn
Ground, working from the halfway line in the Alpari and East stands and
directly behind the goal in the Bobby Moore and Sir Trevor Brooking stands,
and then out towards the corner flags. Appointments will work from the back
to front of each stand in the lower tiers - with the exception of the area
surrounding the tunnel - and from front to back of each stand in the upper
tiers.
What is meant by a 'comparable seat'?
A comparable seat is one in an equivalent price band and similar location to
the seat occupied for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. However, given
the obvious differences in the shape, seating layout and capacity of the two
grounds, no two seats will be exactly comparable and the quality of each
seat and sightline is subjective.
Where will each price band be located within the Stadium?
Supporters will be able to see the location of all seats in the price bands
available to them at their Reservation Centre appointment.
Can I choose a seat in a lower price band?
Any Season Ticket Holder wanting to choose a seat in a lower price band than
their equivalent at the Boleyn Ground may do so, but they will have to wait
until all current Season Ticket Holders from that band have had the
opportunity to select their new seat. This is to protect the rights of
Season Ticket Holders in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no
way disadvantaged by the process or by their fellow supporters.
As a disabled supporter, how will the seat selection process work for me?
All disabled supporters, both wheelchair users and ambulant, will be entered
into the same system as all other Season Ticket Holders and the scheduling
of their Reservation Centre appointment will be based on their location at
the Boleyn Ground for the final season.
The new Stadium boasts excellent disabled access, facilities and seating
options, all of which can be discussed with the Club adviser at the
Reservation Centre, along with guidance on the best location within the
Stadium in relation to access and transport links.
Will the Virtual Venue software allow me to experience view from the
wheelchair platforms?
Yes, the technology will offer sightlines from all the wheelchair platforms
at the new Stadium.
I'm a visually impaired/ambulant disabled supporter, can I sit anywhere in
the Stadium?
Visually impaired and ambulant disabled supporters are free to select any
available seat in a comparable location at the new Stadium. However,
Reservation Centre advisers will be able to offer guidance on the areas that
are best suited to the supporter's individual access needs.
Will I need to move seats for any game at the new Stadium?
Season Ticket seats will not be offered in any sections of the new Stadium
which will potentially be affected by the allocation of visiting supporters,
even for domestic cup games.
Can I visit the Stadium before I select my seat?
The Stadium itself will be an active construction site while it undergoes
the transformation into football mode and the Club's new home. It is not,
therefore, possible to facilitate any Stadium visits before the Club takes
up residence.
The CGI visualisations and the Virtual Venue system used for seat selection
will give supporters a real sense of their new matchday surroundings.
Buying Season Tickets
How much will Season Tickets cost in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket prices for the new Stadium will be announced in April 2015 but
the Club can confirm they will be comparable with prices for the final
season at the Boleyn Ground.
When will I need to pay for my Season Ticket?
At the end of their appointment at the Reservation Centre, once they have
chosen their seats, Season Ticket Holders will be asked to pay a
non-refundable deposit of 25 per cent of their total ticket price. The
remaining 75 per cent will be due by June 2016, in line with the normal
window for Season Ticket renewals.
Why do I need to pay a deposit at the Reservation Centre?
At all times, the Club need to know precisely which seats have been
allocated, to ensure that supporters who are still to select their seats
have access to the best seats still available. Without some form of
financial commitment from Season Ticket Holders, this would prove
exceptionally difficult. The Club is therefore asking supporters for a 25
per cent deposit to secure their chosen seat, which is payable at the
Reservation Centre with the remainder not due until June 2016.
Will I still be able to pay for my Season Ticket on finance?
Supporters can purchase 2016/17 Season Tickets on finance under the same
terms and conditions as currently available at the Boleyn Ground. Once a
Season Ticket Holder has selected their seat in the new Stadium, it will be
reserved for them, pending credit approval. Upon confirmation of the finance
agreement, their seat will be secured.
What are the options for supporters without a Season Ticket for the final
season at the Boleyn Ground?
Anyone not holding a Season Ticket for the final season at the Boleyn Ground
will need to register on the new Stadium waiting list if they wish to buy a
Season Ticket for the 2016/17 season. The new Stadium waiting list opens in
the spring of 2015.
Sitting with friends and family
1) Existing groups
I already sit with a group at the Boleyn Ground and we want to sit together
in the new Stadium. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Yes. Season Ticket Holders who currently sit together at the Boleyn Ground
will also be able to move as a group. When supporters receive details of
their appointment, they will be able to create and register their group
online and attend the Reservation Centre together.
2) New groups
i) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in my price band,
but do not currently sit with me. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders in the same price band are welcome to group together.
When supporters receive details of their appointment, they will be able to
create and register their group online and attend the Reservation Centre
together.
The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.
ii) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in different price
bands. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders currently in different price bands are also welcome to
group at the new Stadium, but will be required to group with the individual
in the highest band. This is to protect the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by the
process or by their fellow supporters.
The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.
iii) Will I still be able to sit with friends who are also wheelchair users,
as I do now?
Yes, provided the group agree on location and there is space available.
How will introducing new Season Ticket Holders work?
Subject to availability, every Season Ticket Holder renewing for the 2016/17
season will have the opportunity to bring up to two new Season Ticket
Holders with them to the new Stadium. Any new Season Ticket Holder will be
able to choose their seat along with the existing Season Ticket Holder at
their Reservation Centre appointment.
Attending the Reservation Centre
When will I be informed of my appointment at the Reservation Centre?
Season Ticket Holders will be contacted between April 2015 and February 2016
with details of their Reservation Centre appointments. The Club aim to give
supporters a minimum of two weeks' notice of their appointment.
What if I cannot make my appointment?
With over 40,000 supporters expected to visit the Reservation Centre, the
Club ask that all supporters stick to their allotted appointment time. If
for any reason supporters cannot make the time slot offered, they should
contact the Reservation Centre using the contact details provided and the
appointment will be rescheduled. However, rescheduling an appointment to a
later date will inevitably reduce the supporter's choice of seats because
other supporters will be making their selections in the interim.
Should any Season Ticket Holder be unable to make their appointment in
person, they are welcome to nominate someone to attend the Reservation
Centre on their behalf.
What are the Reservation Centre's opening hours?
To accommodate the vast number of appointments, the Reservation Centre is
open seven days a week (including matchdays): Monday to Friday from 10:00 to
21:00, Saturday 09:00 to 21:00 and Sunday 12:00 to 18:00.
Is the Reservation Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes.
Can I conduct the appointment over the phone or online?
While supporters can select their seats over the phone if necessary, they
are strongly advised to attend their appointment in person to take advantage
of the Virtual Venue technology, which will help them to select the seats,
sightlines and surroundings that are right for them. The Club will not have
the flexibility to relocate Season Ticket Holders once the 2016/17 season
has begun, so it is important that supporters are happy with their seats
before they choose them. Supporters cannot select their seats online.
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'The wins will come again'
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins is confident West Ham United will be celebrating victories
again soon
11.01.2015
James Tomkins says West Ham United are determined not to waste their fine
start to the 2014/15 season. The Hammers reached Christmas fourth in the
Barclays Premier League after enjoying their best opening in 15 years, only
for a run of four winless games to see them drop to seventh. On Saturday,
West Ham took the lead for the second league game in succession at Swansea
City through Andy Carroll's stunner, only to allow their advantage to slip
in the second half when Mark Noble helped Bafetimbi Gomis' header into his
own net."For me, I think we should be disappointed because we were 1-0 up
and they didn't really look like scoring, especially from open play,"
Tomkins told West Ham TV. "It was a set piece which killed us. We work hard
on set plays in training every week and we obviously conceded from one. It
was a bit unfortunate with the way it went between Nobes and the post, but
we'll move on. "It was a bit disappointing but we'll move on for sure. You
can see from our performances that we haven't deserved to have drawn them -
we normally deserve to win the games we have drawn. "The fans have stayed
behind us and their support was great again on Saturday. We're playing well
and the wins will come again, I'm sure."
Tomkins was an impressed spectator when Carroll beat three defenders before
smashing high into the net to put the Hammers on top at the Liberty Stadium
- even if he was a little surprised by the nature of the goal. "You normally
associate Andy's goals with his head because he is a big lad in the box, but
he had to move his feet around and he put it in the top bin. He tells me he
does it in training every week, but I'm not sure about that, speaking to the
lads!"
The No5 was less impressed when James Collins was forced to leave the pitch
after a clash of heads with his defensive partner as Tomkins cleared behind,
despite not receiving any treatment from the West Ham physio. With the
Welshman off the pitch, Gomis met the resulting corner with a firm downward
header that found the net via the post and Noble. "We had to get someone
else to mark with Ginge going off the pitch and they hurried to put the
corner in because they knew our marking was not as good as it could have
been. "It probably did have an effect on the marking itself, but it was a
good header from their lad to be fair. We'll look at it and try to improve.
"We need to look at why we are losing our leads. We are normally quite
strong defensively and have been coming back from goals down ourselves to
win games. We are letting leads slip and it's costing us vital points, which
is disappointing, but Swansea are a good side."
Tomkins and Collins were part of an unfamiliar 3-5-2 formation that stifled
Swansea in their attacking third and worked ever so well from open play.
While the home side did pass the ball well, the Hammers held firm and
protected Adrian superbly in the main, and could even have nicked it late on
when Carroll, Carl Jenkinson and Tomkins himself all went close. "They tried
to slide balls in behind us, but they couldn't really work it out and we
frustrated them for a lot of the time. They started the second half well,
but you still couldn't really see them scoring and it was a bit against the
run of play when they did score. "It could have gone either way at the end.
We had chances and they had chances and, in the end, I suppose a draw was a
fair result."
Looking ahead, Tomkins is sure West Ham can get back to winning ways with
two home games this week - Everton in the FA Cup third-round replay on
Tuesday and struggling Hull City in the Barclays Premier League on Sunday.
"It's a good opportunity for us. We don't want to look too far ahead, but if
we get through we have got a game which is another winnable one. This is a
massive chance for us to have an FA Cup run, but we need to beat Everton
first and they're a strong side. "On the night at Upton Park, I'm sure we
can win that game."
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West Ham v Everton
KO 19:45
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce (right) and Everton manager Roberto Martinez
12 January 2015
Last updated at 18:00
FA CUP THIRD ROUND REPLAY
Venue: The Boleyn Ground Date: Tuesday, 13 January Kick-off: 19:45 GMT
TEAM NEWS
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is expected to name his strongest possible side
for their FA Cup third-round replay. Only Diafra Sakho (back) and Cheikhou
Kouyate (international duty) are expected to be unavailable.
Everton manager Roberto Martinez will again be without several players for
their trip to the Boleyn Ground. Tim Howard (calf), Sylvain Distin (groin),
Tony Hibbert, Leon Osman (foot), Darron Gibson and Steven Pienaar (both
knee) remain sidelined.
Everton manager Martinez, meanwhile, confirmed he had made some enquiries
about goalkeepers this month: "It is something we have done for a while now,
but nothing has been conclusive or done in a way that we can announce any
names. "I'm not interested in bringing in a short-term goalkeeper - we'll
look at the options, but if we bring in anyone, it has to be someone who can
stay with us for the long term.
"We are going to explore that avenue and if we find the right personality,
we'll act on it."
West Ham United v Everton
West Ham are three-time winners - most recently in 1980
Everton are five-times winners - most recently in 1995
West Ham have not won in their last five games
Everton have not won in their last six games
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Sam Allardyce: I'm a more flexible boss than Roberto Martinez
BBC.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce believes he is more "flexible" in his tactics
than Everton counterpart Roberto Martinez. The Hammers are enjoying a fine
season compared to the struggling Toffees, with the sides set to meet in a
third round FA Cup replay on Tuesday. "I'm a little bit more flexible than
Roberto - he is a total believer in one style," said Allardyce. But
Allardyce says Everton's problems this season are down to playing in the
Europa League and more injuries. Everton finished fifth last season in
Martinez's first season in charge to qualify for European football, but are
currently three points above the Premier League relegation zone. West Ham
are in seventh spot and 11 points better off than the Goodison Park side.
"You become flexible as time goes on," added Allardyce. "Flexibility teaches
you that you have a philosophy in the way you want to play, but if that way
of playing doesn't suit the players you cannot keep that philosophy." The FA
Cup replay will take place at Upton Park after a 1-1 draw away at Everton
and the winner will visit Bristol City or Doncaster Rovers in the next
round. Martinez has played down reports linking him with Cardiff keeper
David Marshall and, despite speculation over the futures of Samuel Eto'o and
Seamus Coleman, he is not envisaging any major departures. "We are not
entertaining that speculation of big sales," said the Spaniard. "We are not
going to sell our big assets in the window, so I think all those stories and
admiration from the outside are just a waste of time."
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Allardyce still hopeful on Reid
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 12th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that he can still persuade Winston Reid to sign a
contract extension before the end of the season. Up to now the Kiwi centre
half had steadfastly refused to sign a new deal, having spent the last four
years at West Ham since moving from FC Midtjylland. However Allardyce, who
was briefing the press ahead of tomorrow night's FA Cup 3rd Round replay
against Everton, maintains that he can still persuade the 26-year-old to
remain at the Boleyn. "I think that what we have done this season - and
hopefully we'll finish off the season strongly - might persuade him to sign
for us," he said. "We are on the up at the moment and we have got a very big
future ahead of us, moving into the new stadium. So the club could be bigger
than it's ever been in the next four to five years." Allardyce added that
there was no chance of Reid moving during the current transfer window -
unless the club received a huge offer. "There's no choice for me, he stays -
that's it," he said. "If somebody makes a big offer then obviously the
chairman decides, but for me he's staying. The chairman decides whether the
money is big enough, but for me he stays and I think that the way the club
has improved, I think he will stay."
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Allardyce concerned by lack of wins
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 12th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce admitted today that he was concerned by his team's recent
inability to convert leads into wins. West Ham have taken the lead in their
last three fixtures - against West Brom, Everton and Swansea - yet failed to
win a single one. And that, says Allardyce, is simply not good enough. "It's
a concern that we'e not as free scoring as we were," he said. "The results
have dipped a bit but the performances haven't. "One thing that has to
happen is we get to more resilient defensively. We've been talking about
that all season. We're becoming a much more creative side but our defensive
weaknesses have been exploited too much. In order to win football games you
need to make sure you're strong enough in both departments. We've only had
four clean sheets so far and that's not good enough to keep you in the top
six. "If you look at Southampton, they're up there because they've had 11
clean sheets in 21 games. That's why they're in the top four and we're not."
Allardyce, who has almost fully recovered from the illness that prevented
him from travelling to Wales at the weekend is set to field his strongest
possible team against Everton tomorrow evening. And he believes tomorrow
night's visit of the Blues will prove just as tough as the first meeting
between the two sides. "Everton getting a draw against the champions
Manchester City shows how good we were.," he added. "Tomorrow won't be cut
and dry, we know it will be a hard game. "When the opportunities come, we
need to take them because there's it'll be played to a finish. We have to
make sure we come out of it without having wasted our energy."
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West Ham United announce Olympic Stadium migration policy
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 11th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have today revealed important details of the process and
timetable for selecting seats in the club's new Stadium on Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park for the 2016/17 season.
The key points of the process are as follows:
• Each 2015/16 Season Ticket Holder to be given individual appointment at
Reservation Centre in Stratford.
• Process to take place between April 2015 and February 2016, starting with
price Band 1 through to price Band 4.
• Non-refundable deposit of 25 per cent of 2016/17 Season Ticket cost due
upon selecting new seat at the Olympic Stadium.
• Remaining balance of 2016/17 Season Ticket cost to be paid by June 2016.
• Season Ticket prices at the Olympic Stadium will be "comparable to those
for the final season at the Boleyn Ground".
• Olympic Stadium seat allocation dependent upon 2015/16 Season Ticket Band.
• Anyone wishing to downgrade a Band will be able to select their seat only
when all existing Season Ticket holders in the new chosen band have selected
theirs.
• A waiting list for seats opens later this year; tickets go on General Sale
only when all existing Season Ticket holders have been invited to choose
their new seat.
The club's first priority is to offer every Season Ticket Holder a
comparable seat in the new stadium to the one they have for the final season
at the Boleyn Ground.
Additionally, Season Ticket Holders are able to group their seats together
with friends and family and have the opportunity to bring with them up to
two new Season Ticket Holders.
In devising a process to meet those priorities, the club had three guiding
principles: that the process should be fair and transparent to all
supporters, with the efficiency to accommodate 40,000 supporters coming
through the Reservation Centre doors.
The Process
Every Season Ticket Holder who renews their ticket for the final season at
the Boleyn Ground will receive an invitation to attend a personal
appointment at West Ham United's Reservation Centre at Westfield Stratford
City. The appointments will take place between April 2015 and February 2016.
At the Reservation Centre, an adviser will present the various ticketing
options available for the big kick-off in August 2016. Supporters will be
shown the surroundings and views from different seats in the stadium using
state-of-the-art Virtual Venue technology.
The club is committed to ensuring Season Ticket Holders have the opportunity
to select seats at the new stadium in an equivalent price band and location
to their seat at the Boleyn. They will therefore be allocated their
appointment based on the price band and seat location of their 2015/16
Season Ticket.
They will have a choice of seats in their existing price band or from any
available seats in price bands above. If Season Ticket Holders wish to
choose a seat in a lower price band they can do so, but only after all
Season Ticket Holders in that price band have had the opportunity to select
their seats. This is to protect the rights of Season Ticket Holders in lower
price bands and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by the process
or their fellow supporters.
Each Season Ticket Holder will also have the opportunity to bring up to two
new Season Ticket Holders with them to the new stadium, and – subject to
availability – choose the additional seats together. Larger groups wishing
to sit together will be able to register for a group Reservation Centre
appointment. For further information on the 'grouping' process and the seat
selection process as a whole, please refer to the FAQ below.
Season Ticket prices for the new Stadium will be comparable to those for the
final season at the Boleyn Ground, further details of which will be released
in April 2015. Upon visiting the Reservation Centre, supporters can secure
their 2016/17 Season Ticket with a 25 per cent deposit and the remaining
balance is then due in June 2016.
Once all 2015/16 Season Ticket Holders' appointments are complete, and the
new stadium waiting list has been serviced, any remaining Season Tickets
will be made available for general sale.
The waiting list for new Stadium Season Tickets will open later this year.
Until then, the only way to guarantee your priority in the seat selection
process is by holding a Season Ticket for the final season at the Boleyn
Ground.
Further important information on the seat selection process and timetable
can be found can be viewed in the following Q+A.
New Stadium seat selection FAQs
This FAQ covers the following topics:
• New Stadium seat selection plans
• Selecting seats at the new Stadium
• Buying Season Tickets
• Sitting with friends and family
• Attending the Reservation Centre
New Stadium seat selection plans
How will Season Ticket Holders be allocated seats at the new Stadium?
The Club have worked carefully to ensure that the seat allocation process
works in the interests of all our loyal Season Ticket Holders. The
priorities are:
• That every existing Season Ticket Holder is offered a comparable
seat in the new Stadium to the one they have for the final season at the
Boleyn Ground.
• That they are able to group their seats together with friends and
family.
Additionally, Season Ticket Holders will have the opportunity to bring with
them up to two other individuals as new Season Ticket Holders.
In planning a process to meet those priorities, the Club have had three
guiding principles:
Fairness – the process must be fair, so the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in each band are equally protected.
Transparency – The process must be clear to all supporters, so that all can
understand what is happening, when and why.
Efficiency - The process must be efficient, so that the 40,000 supporters
expected through the Reservation Centre doors have enough time to enjoy
their appointments and make a fair decision in good time before August 2016.
On the basis of those priorities and principles, the process will work as
follows:
• Every Season Ticket Holder will be offered a comparable seat at the
new Stadium, based on the price band and location of their seat for the
final season at the Boleyn Ground.
• Season Ticket Holders will receive their Reservation Centre
appointments and select their seats in order of price band, from band 1 to
band 4, so it is clear at each stage what seats are available in higher
price bands, should supporters wish to upgrade.
• Every Season Ticket Holder will therefore be offered first refusal
on the best available seats in their equivalent price band, before those
seats are made available to supporters in any other bands.
• Subject to availability, all Season Ticket Holders will be given the
opportunity to upgrade their ticket in the new Stadium to a seat in a higher
price band.
• Supporters who wish to move down a price band will be able to do so;
however only after all supporters in that price band have had the
opportunity to select their seat.
Selecting seats in the new Stadium
How do I select my seat for the new Stadium?
Each Season Ticket Holder will be offered a personal appointment at the New
Stadium Reservation Centre in Westfield Stratford City, where they will
select their seat with the help of a Club adviser. Using state-of-the-art
Virtual Venue technology, supporters will be shown the views from the seats
available to them and the advisers will be able to answer all their
questions, from sightlines and transport to Stadium access and facilities.
How will the order of appointments within each price band be decided?
The order of appointments for Season Ticket Holders within each band will be
based on the quality of the current sightline for each seat at the Boleyn
Ground, working from the half way line in the Alpari and East stands and
directly behind the goal in the Bobby Moore and Sir Trevor Brooking stands,
and then out towards the corner flags. Appointments will work from the back
to front of each stand in the lower tiers – with the exception of the area
surrounding the tunnel – and from front to back of each stand in the upper
tiers.
What is meant by a 'comparable seat'?
A comparable seat is one in an equivalent price band and similar location to
the seat occupied for the final season at the Boleyn Ground. However, given
the obvious difference in the shape, seating layout and capacity of the two
grounds, no two seats will be exactly comparable and the quality of each
seat and sightline is subjective.
Where will each price band be located within the Stadium?
Supporters will be able to see the location of all seats in the price bands
available to them at their Reservation Centre appointment.
Can I choose a seat in a lower price band?
Any Season Ticket Holder wanting to choose a seat in a lower price band than
their equivalent at the Boleyn Ground may do so, but they will have to wait
until all current Season Ticket Holders from that band have had the
opportunity to select their new seat. This is to protect the rights of
Season Ticket Holders in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no
way disadvantaged by the process or their fellow supporters.
As a disabled supporter, how will the seat selection process work for me?
All disabled supporters, both wheelchair users and ambulant, will be entered
into the same system as all other Season Ticket Holders and the scheduling
of their Reservation Centre appointment will be based on their location at
the Boleyn Ground for the final season.
The new Stadium boasts excellent disabled access, facilities and seating
options, all of which can be discussed with the Club adviser at the
Reservation Centre, along with guidance on the best location within the
Stadium in relation to access and transport links.
Will the Virtual Venue software allow me to experience view from the
wheelchair platforms?
Yes, the technology will offer sightlines from all the wheelchair platforms
at the new Stadium.
I'm a visually impaired/ambulant disabled supporter, can I sit anywhere in
the Stadium?
Visually impaired and ambulant disabled supporters are free to select any
available seat in a comparable location at the new stadium. However,
Reservation Centre advisers will be able to offer guidance on the areas that
are best suited to the supporter's individual access needs.
Will I need to move seats for any game at the new Stadium?
Season Tickets seats will not be offered in any sections of the new Stadium
which will potentially be affected by the allocation of visiting supporters,
even for domestic cup games.
Can I visit the Stadium before I select my seat?
The Stadium itself will be an active construction site while it undergoes
the transformation into football mode and the Club's new home. It is not,
therefore, possible to facilitate any Stadium visits before the Club takes
up residence.
The CGI visualisations and the Virtual Venue system used for seat selection
will give supporters a real sense of their new matchday surroundings.
Buying Season Tickets
How much will Season Tickets cost in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket prices for the new Stadium will be announced in April 2015 but
the Club can confirm they will be comparable with prices for the final
season at the Boleyn Ground.
When will I need to pay for my Season Ticket?
At the end of their appointment at the Reservation Centre, once they have
chosen their seats, Season Ticket Holders will be asked to pay a
non-refundable deposit of 25 per cent of their total ticket price. The
remaining 75 per cent will be due by June 2016, in line with the normal
window for Season Ticket renewals.
Why do I need to pay a deposit at the Reservation Centre?
At all times, the Club need to know precisely which seats have been
allocated, to ensure that supporters who are still to select their seats
have access to the best seats still available. Without some form of
financial commitment from Season Ticket Holders, this would prove
exceptionally difficult. The Club is therefore asking supporters for a 25
per cent deposit to secure their chosen seat, which is payable at the
Reservation Centre with the remainder not due until June 2016.
Will I still be able to pay for my Season Ticket on finance?
Supporters can purchase 2016/17 Season Tickets on finance under the same
terms and conditions as currently available at the Boleyn Ground. Once a
Season Ticket Holder has selected their seat in the new Stadium, it will be
reserved for them, pending credit approval. Upon confirmation of the finance
agreement, their seat will be secured.
What are the options for supporters without a Season Ticket for the final
season at the Boleyn Ground?
Anyone not holding a Season Ticket for the final season at the Boleyn Ground
will need to register on the new Stadium waiting list if they wish to buy a
Season Ticket for the 2016/17 season. The new Stadium waiting list opens in
the spring of 2015.
Sitting with friends and family
1) Existing groups
I already sit with a group at the Boleyn Ground and we want to sit together
in the new Stadium. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Yes. Season Ticket Holders who currently sit together at the Boleyn Ground
will also be able to move as a group. When supporters receive details of
their appointment, they will be able to create and register their group
online and attend the Reservation Centre together.
2) New groups
i) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in my price band,
but do not currently sit with me. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders in the same price band are welcome to group together.
When supporters receive details of their appointment, they will be able to
create and register their group online and attend the Reservation Centre
together.
The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.
ii) I want to 'group' with Season Ticket Holders who sit in different price
bands. Can we sit together in the new Stadium?
Season Ticket Holders currently in different price bands are also welcome to
group at the new Stadium, but will be required to group with the individual
in the highest band. This is to protect the rights of Season Ticket Holders
in lower price bands and ensure that they are in no way disadvantaged by the
process or their fellow supporters.
The Club will look to allocate the seats that most closely fit the group's
requirements, though the area selected may not be directly comparable for
members of the group with the best seat location.
iii) Will I still be able to sit with friends who are also wheelchair users,
as I do now?
Yes, provided the group agree on location and there is space available.
How will introducing new Season Ticket Holders work?
Subject to availability, every Season Ticket Holder renewing for the 2016/17
season will have the opportunity to bring up to two new Season Ticket
Holders with them to the new Stadium. Any new Season Ticket Holder will be
able to choose their seat along with the existing Season Ticket Holder at
their Reservation Centre appointment.
Attending the Reservation Centre
When will I be informed of my appointment at the Reservation Centre?
Season Ticket Holders will be contacted between April 2015 and February 2016
with details of their Reservation Centre appointments. The Club aim to give
supporters a minimum of two weeks' notice of their appointment.
What if I can't make my appointment?
With over 40,000 supporters expected to visit the Reservation Centre, the
Club ask that all supporters stick to their allotted appointment time. If
for any reason supporters cannot make the time slot offered, they should
contact the Reservation Centre using the contact details provided and the
appointment will be rescheduled. However, rescheduling an appointment to a
later date will inevitably reduce the supporter's choice of seats because
other supporters will be making their selections in the interim.
Should any Season Ticket Holder be unable to make their appointment in
person, they are welcome to nominate someone to attend the Reservation
Centre on their behalf.
What are the Reservation Centre's opening hours?
To accommodate the vast number of appointments, the Reservation Centre is
open seven days a week (including matchdays): Monday to Friday from 10:00 to
21:00, Saturday 09:00 to 21:00 and Sunday 12:00 to 18:00.
Is the Reservation Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes.
Can I conduct the appointment over the phone or online?
While supporters can select their seats over the phone if necessary, they
are strongly advised to attend their appointment in person to take advantage
of the Virtual Venue technology, which will help them to select the seats,
sightlines and surroundings that are right for them. The Club will not have
the flexibility to relocate Season Ticket Holders once the 2016/17 season
has begun, so it is important that supporters are happy with their seats
before they choose them. Supporters cannot select their seats online.
While all reasonable endeavours have been made to ensure that the contents
of these FAQs are correct, West Ham United will not be held responsible for
any inaccuracies or omissions. West Ham United Football Club reserves the
right to amend the information contained in these FAQs at any time and from
time to time.
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Opening time for the new Boleyn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have announced the launch of The Boleyn, a dedicated bar for
Hammers supporters at the club's new Olympic Stadium in Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park.
An exclusive yet informal bar located in the West Stand of the stadium, The
Boleyn will combine the camaraderie and atmosphere of your favourite
pre-match pub with the convenience of being seconds from your halfway line
seats on either side of the players' tunnel, from where you will enjoy an
unrivalled view of the action.
The bar will be decked out in claret and blue colours and the West Ham
crest, with portraits of the greatest legends and moments in Hammers history
gracing the walls, all part of the club's commitment to make the new stadium
look and feel unmistakably like our new home inside and out.
Members of The Boleyn will enjoy free drinks at half-time and can purchase
traditional East End food from Café Cassettari, named after the venue where
graduates of the West Ham Academy famously used to meet and talk tactics.
Membership of The Boleyn will be strictly limited to 1,000 places, and is
being made available today to all Season Ticket Holders on a first come,
first served basis. From this morning (Monday), each Season Ticket Holder's
household will receive a unique Boleyn brochure, with full details of this
stunning new venue.
As well as exclusive use of the bar and café, free half-time drinks and
halfway line seats, members will enjoy access to every West Ham Premier
League home fixture plus the first three cup games, priority for cup
semi-finals and finals, a dedicated VIP entrance to the Stadium, and a
complimentary matchday programme.
To purchase your membership, register online for a Reservation Centre
appointment to select your seats.
Fans wanting to secure one of the limited number of places will be required
to pay a joining fee of £500 plus VAT, with monthly direct debits of £140
plus VAT beginning from June 2016. This price will remain fixed for the
length of your membership.
When it comes to the big kick-off in 2016, the Boleyn will be the perfect
place to combine your traditional matchday experience with the convenience
of being just seconds away from your seats. Book your place in West Ham's
greatest-ever bar today.
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Sam Allardyce hopes to keep Winston Reid at West Ham
Last Updated: 12/01/15 3:53pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has reiterated his desire not to lose Winston
Reid who is out of contract this summer. Arsenal are one of a host of clubs
reportedly interested in signing the New Zealand international, whose
current deal at Upton Park expires at the end of the season. Sam Allardyce
says rumoured transfer target Matija Nastasic wants to play overseas and
wouldn't be drawn on stories linking the club with Efe Ambrose. Allardyce
admitted last week that Reid was unlikely to sign a new contract but the
Hammers boss remains hopeful the 26-year-old, who joined West Ham from
Danish club FC Midtjylland in August 2010, will have a change of heart due
to the club's bright future. There has also been speculation the Hammers
could decide to cash in on Reid this month before his contract is up, but
Allardyce is keen to keep him until at least the end of the season unless
the club receive an offer they cannot refuse. "The chairman decides whether
the money is big enough, but for me he stays and I think that the way the
club has improved, I think he will stay."
Allardyce said: "There's no choice for me, he stays - that's it. If somebody
makes a big offer then obviously the chairman decides, but for me he's
staying. "The chairman decides whether the money is big enough, but for me
he stays and I think that the way the club has improved, I think he will
stay. "And I think that what we have done this season, and hopefully (we
will) finish off the season strongly, might persuade him to sign for us. "We
are on the up at the moment and we have got a very big future ahead of us,
moving into the new stadium. So the club could be bigger than it's ever been
in the next four to five years."
Meanwhile, West Ham have been linked with Celtic defender Efe Ambrose, but
Allardyce refused to comment on that speculation with his focus currently on
loan deals. He said: "There is limited finance for us, as I have said
before, on the financial fair play side of it. So anybody coming in on a
permanent basis wouldn't be possible for us, I don't think, based on the
budgets that we have got available. "Maybe a loan player or two, but not a
permanent deal."
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Lazio in talks to sign West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison, according to Sky
sources
Last Updated: 12/01/15 9:46pm
SSN
Lazio are in talks to sign midfielder Ravel Morrison from West Ham,
according to Sky sources. West Ham have told Morrison, whose contract
expires in the summer, he can leave for free this month despite the fact he
has an £18m buyout clause in his contract, with the London club reportedly
only asking for a percentage of any future sale. Two Premier League clubs
and three clubs in Europe are trying to sign the 21-year-old, although a
dispute between Morrison and West Ham over one month's wages of £60,000 is
holding up any potential deal.
Morrison insists he is owed the money while the club claim they have
deducted it from his December salary as payment of club fines. Morrison has
called the PFA in to mediate. The mdifielder returned to West Ham last month
after an unsuccessful loan spell at Cardiff and has been training with the
U21 development squad, having not played for the Hammers since the August
defeat to Southampton at Upton Park. He has also had loan spells at
Birmingham and QPR since signing from Manchester United for £650,000 two
years ago.
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West Ham v Everton team news
Last Updated: 12/01/15 4:10pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has hinted he will name his strongest possible
side for Tuesday night's FA Cup third-round replay with Everton at Upton
Park.
The Hammers do not play again until they face Hull on Sunday and Allardyce
feels there is enough time for recovery between the two fixtures for him to
name a full-strength XI.
Although he admitted there are a number of unspecified bumps and bruises,
only Diafra Sakho (back) and Cheikhou Kouyate (international duty) are
expected to be unavailable for selection, with Ravel Morrison not considered
as his future at the club remains unclear.
Everton boss Roberto Martinez will again be without seven players for the
game.
The same group that missed Saturday's 1-1 Premier League draw with
Manchester City continue to be sidelined - Tim Howard (calf), Sylvain Distin
(groin), Tony Hibbert (unspecified), Leon Osman (foot), Darron Gibson,
Steven Pienaar (both knee) and James McCarthy (hamstring).
Martinez has confirmed he intends to include 22-year-old forward Conor
McAleny in the squad for the game in London.
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Andy Carroll aiming for FA Cup glory with West Ham after moment of magic
against Swansea
Jan 11, 2015 22:30 By Andrew Gwilym
The giant 6ft3 striker has been a nightmare for the Swans having slotted
three against them this season already
The Mirror
Andy Carroll again stuck the boot into Swansea before setting his sights on
FA Cup glory with West Ham. The striker's stunning first-half goal at the
Liberty Stadium was his seventh against Swansea and his third against them
this season. It was not enough to secure all three points as Mark Noble's
effort to keep out a Bafetimbi Gomis header only resulted in the ball ending
up in the net. But the result keeps the Hammers in the mix for European
qualification and with their top-flight status all but secure, Carroll wants
to see off Everton in tomorrow's FA Cup replay. He said: "There's nothing
better than a cup run for everyone at West Ham and I feel this is the season
where we could go a long way in it. "There's no reason we can't. We've had a
good run this season, so why can't we carry that on in the FA Cup? "I
thought we could have won at Everton and we were unlucky at the end when we
conceded. "But all the lads are looking forward to the replay and hopefully
getting through to the next round." The England striker's goal was a rare
moment of quality in a scrappy game. Stewart Downing's cross was brilliantly
controlled on the chest, three defenders were beaten and an unstoppable
left-foot shot dispatched into the top corner. "Swansea are a good team to
play against for me as I've scored a few goals. I was taking stick off the
Swansea fans so it was nice to score and I had a bit of banter with them
with the celebration. It was one of my best."
The Hammers should have boss Sam Allardyce back in the dug-out against
Everton after he missed the trip to Wales with a chest infection.
He is on antibiotics now and I am sure in a couple of days will be right as
rain," said assistant Neil McDonald. Gomis's involvement in the equaliser
should have been welcome news to Garry Monk with Wilfried Bony heading to
Manchester City. But the Swans boss is having to fight off interest in the
French international, who said his agent was talking to a "big club". "I am
sure every agent in the world is speaking to someone at this time of year,"
said Monk. "It would only bother me if he wasn't trying or his performance
was affected. You can see in all the games he plays he is 100 per cent with
us."
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Everton striker Romelu Lukaku to play in West Ham replay in tribute of late
Junior Malanda
Jan 12, 2015 22:30 By David Anderson
The Toffees striker has been left devastated after boyhood friend Malanda
was killed in a car crash on Saturday but wants to take to the field at
Upton Park
SSN
Romelu Lukaku will play for Everton on Tuesday night in tribute to his
tragic boyhood pal Junior Malanda. Lukaku has been left devastated after
Wolfsburg defender Malanda was killed in a car crash in Germany on Saturday.
The Belgium striker is being supported by Everton as he deals with the
tragedy and boss Roberto Martinez claims he has found training an escape.
Martinez says Lukaku wants to face West Ham in tonight's FA Cup replay at
Upton Park in honour of Malanda. "Obviously it was an incredible shock for
Rom and for everyone," he said. "We all knew that Rom had that relationship
with Junior because it was a talking point when we played Wolfsburg in the
Europa League, the two of them facing each other. "We found out straight
after the Man City game. It was such incredible news and it has been tough.
Rom has been really affected. Everyone has to be honest, as we only played
them not long ago. "It is so sad it is difficult to comprehend. Rom is
really down about it. He is in constant contact with his family, but he has
been very strong over it. "Playing football probably allows you to get rid
of that feeling and that's exactly what he needs. He trained well on Sunday
and we are all helping and supporting him." Malanda, who was 20, was on the
fringes of the Belgium squad and Martinez says compatriot Kevin Mirallas is
also distraught."Rom is a very sensitive man and he had always been giving
Junior good advice," he said. "Junior was just breaking into the senior side
with Belgium and you can imagine their group is very strong. Kevin Mirallas
was very close to him too. "Their feeling is they want to play football and
show their respect on the pitch as well. "They are such a footballing
family. It is so sad what happened. It makes you appreciate not to take
anything for granted in life." Meanwhile, Leighton Baines claims the cups
are Everton's best hope this season because their Champions League dream is
over.
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Irons: 'We think Rav and Lazio are talking'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 12, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that Ravel Morrison could join Lazio was not being ruled out by
West Ham this evening. After the story was broken on Sky Sports News,
ClaretandHugh was told by a top Boleyn insider that the club believed the
Italian club was talking to Morrison and his advisers. The player has been
told he can leave Upton Park and given he is out of contract at the end of
the season can sign a deal with the Serie A outfit. The club believe that
whilst a deal with the Italians is "probably unlikely" they refuse to rule
it out entirely.
Our source said: "We think they are talking to him as he can speak to
foreign clubs as of course he's free to sign a pre-contract and we would get
a token fee under FIFA rules should it happen. "Personally, however, I think
it's probably unlikely. There's many factors involved."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"I'm so flexible" – Sorry Sam run that by me again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 12, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I'm a little bit more flexible than Roberto – he is a total believer in one
style. You become flexible as time goes on. Flexibility teaches you that you
have a philosophy in the way you want to play, but if that way of playing
doesn't suit the players you cannot keep that philosophy."
SAM ALLARDYCE JANUARY 12, 2015
This is the quote which our manager gave to the BBC during an interview
ahead of tomorrow evening's game against Everton! he enlarged typeface has
been used to ensure that you are sure you can believe your eyes! There
really is very little to add except to apologise to the man for so
misunderstanding that he was a multi-faceted tactician with many different
ways of playing, It really does almost beggar belief that Sam could have
chosen to explain himself and his philosophy in such a brazen manner.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons move for Man City defender fails
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 12, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have lost out in the chase for Manchester City defender Matija
Nastasic. Reports in Germany claim the Hammers attempted to make a late move
for the player after he was involved in talks with Schalke. The Hammers
moved in when it became clear that Schalke were keen to take him on loan but
were unwilling to commit to a £10 million fee at the end of the season. City
wanted a loan and offer from the German club at season end and thus the deal
became "bogged down " allowing the Irons to move in. However, the defender,
who is earning £70k a week, was unsure about a move to the east-end and with
uncertainty still surrounding Winston Reid's position the move broke down..
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Tuesday, January 13
Monday, January 12
Daily WHUFC News - 12th January 2015
Jenks relishes new role
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson enjoyed playing as a wing-back in Saturday's 1-1 draw at
Swansea City
11.01.2015
Carl Jenkinson had mixed emotions after West Ham United played out a third
consecutive draw on Saturday. The Hammers led for over half-an-hour after
Andy Carroll fired them in front at Swansea City, but the hosts claimed a
share of the spoils 16 minutes from the end through Bafetimbi Gomis' header.
Jenkinson was deployed in a more attacking wing-back role and he went close
to a late winner with a shot from range which Lukas Fabianski shovelled
around the post. He felt the Hammers were well worthy of their point, but it
was one which was laced with a tinge of frustration after the Swans levelled
from a set play. "I think overall it's a good point," he said. "We're
disappointed because we conceded from a set piece, which was obviously
avoidable and we had plenty of chances to win the game. "So that's
frustrating, but at the same time Swansea are a good team and we've picked
up four points in two games against them. It's not the end of the world and
we look forward to Tuesday now. "I really enjoyed playing in the wing back
role. The first half we were quite restricted and I didn't have too much of
the ball in the attacking third so I was playing more like a full back. But
in the second half the game opened up and I was able to get forward more.
"It was different and I enjoyed it because it gave me the licence to get
forward."
As well as getting forward, Jenkinson showed his proficiency at the other
end when flying in to block from Wayne Routledge when the winger looekd set
to score on the stroke of half-time. "The boys and the assistant gaffer
Macca were happy with me for that block," Jenkinson added. "It was nice and
an important time to make a tackle and stop a goal. "It was just a shame we
couldn't keep them out in the second half. It was a disappointing goal to
concede, but onwards and upwards. It's not a bad point by any means."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison embroiled in wages row
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 11th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has called upon the PFA to resolve a wages issue with West
Ham. The 21-year-old midfielder, who has made just two brief appearances for
the Hammers this season is out of contract this summer and on his way out of
the club. However the Mirror reports that Morrison has contacted the
Professional Football's Association in order to resolve a dispute he has
with West Ham over withheld wages.
West Ham, who pay Morrison circa £15,000 per week are understood to have
removed a number of fines from Morrison's salary and insist the England
under-21 was aware of those fines; not so, says Morrison.
Despite being prepared to allow Morrison to leave on a free transfer, there
have been no takers as of yet. Neil McDonald intimated recently that the
youngster would never play for West Ham again. Since joining the Hammers
three years ago this month, Morrison has made only 17 starts for the club,
scoring five goals in the process. During that period he has also been sent
on loan to Birmingham (2012/13 season), Queens Park Rangers (February to May
2014) and Cardiff City (September to December 2014).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham outcast Ravel Morrison calls in players' union to resolve Hammers
wages row
Jan 10, 2015 22:30 By Tom Hopkinson
The 21-year-old player takes action over a complaint he is owed a month's
salary of around £60,000 - but Hammers insist deductions are down to fines
The Mirror
Ravel Morrison's relationship with West Ham has plumbed new depths in a row
over wages, writes Tom Hopkinson in the Sunday People .
The 21-year-old has called in the PFA over a complaint that he did not
receive his full salary – understood to be around £60,000 – for December and
now the players' union is trying to mediate between the two parties. The
Hammers say that any money deducted is due to an accumulation of fines and
club sources insist Morrison was informed through the proper channels. The
club are trying to offload the former Manchester United youngster this month
– however, they are struggling to find a taker with his £15,000-a-week wages
and reputation major obstacles. As Sunday People Sport revealed last month,
West Ham are looking at every option that is open to them to cancel his
contract. Incredibly, that contract contains an £18million buyout clause –
although the Hammers are now happy to let him leave for nothing. Last week,
boss Sam Allardyce's assistant Neil McDonald said of Morrison: "I am not
sure if he is leaving but he won't come back into the squad."
Morrison joined West Ham in January 2013 after Sir Alex Ferguson ran out of
patience with his antics. Allardyce paid £650,000 to sign him from United in
the belief that he could get his focus back once away from the distractions
of Manchester. However, the pair's relationship deteriorated and loan spells
at QPR and Cardiff both ended in problems.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers respond to Celtic defender link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have tonight denied any interest in Celtic defender Efe Ambrose.
The 26-year old Nigerian right back/central defender had been linked with
the Irons in various newspapers stories today along with Crystal Palace. He
has been impressive for the Scottish outfit since joining in 2012 after
joining from Israeli club FC Ashdod. One report said: "Both the Hammers and
Eagles are aware of his defensive prowess and believe they can lure the
Nigeria international south of the border." But ClaretandHugh was told a few
minutes ago: "We have seen the reports but can confirm there's no interest
as far as West Ham are concerned."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song hopes rise for Everton replay
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham medics are hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to return to action
for the Third Round FA Cup replay against Everton on Tuesday evening. The
player has been carrying a viral infection since his trip to Africa where he
ended his international career. He had hoped to play at Swansea yesterday
but was finally ruled out after failing to completely recover from the
'bug.' A club source told ClaretandHugh earlier this afternoon (Sun): "These
viral things have to run their course but he's feeling better and we are
hopeful he will make it for the Everton match. "It is impossible to be 100
per cent sure but the signs are good and he will be very keen to become
involved again. "It could have been a stressful week with the international
decision and now this so it will be great for him to put everything behind
him and start playing football again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons confirm new Morrison row
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison and the club are embroiled in a new row…over his wages! The
club confirmed to ClaretandHugh this morning that the player had deductions
made from his £60k a month salary following reports in a national newspaper.
The Hammers say he was paid but that certain deductions were for reasons
they told Claretandhugh were "internal."
Morrison, meanwhile is reported to, have taken the matter up with the
Professional Footballers' Association as his relationship with the club
worsens. He has already been told he can now find a new club after two
spells on loan at Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City and Neil McDonald
confirmed earlier ClaretandHugh reports that his comments claiming nobody
would be leaving the club in January do not necessarily apply to Morrison.
The player has been training with the Under-21 squad and will be released at
the end of the season should he fail to find a club this month.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson enjoyed playing as a wing-back in Saturday's 1-1 draw at
Swansea City
11.01.2015
Carl Jenkinson had mixed emotions after West Ham United played out a third
consecutive draw on Saturday. The Hammers led for over half-an-hour after
Andy Carroll fired them in front at Swansea City, but the hosts claimed a
share of the spoils 16 minutes from the end through Bafetimbi Gomis' header.
Jenkinson was deployed in a more attacking wing-back role and he went close
to a late winner with a shot from range which Lukas Fabianski shovelled
around the post. He felt the Hammers were well worthy of their point, but it
was one which was laced with a tinge of frustration after the Swans levelled
from a set play. "I think overall it's a good point," he said. "We're
disappointed because we conceded from a set piece, which was obviously
avoidable and we had plenty of chances to win the game. "So that's
frustrating, but at the same time Swansea are a good team and we've picked
up four points in two games against them. It's not the end of the world and
we look forward to Tuesday now. "I really enjoyed playing in the wing back
role. The first half we were quite restricted and I didn't have too much of
the ball in the attacking third so I was playing more like a full back. But
in the second half the game opened up and I was able to get forward more.
"It was different and I enjoyed it because it gave me the licence to get
forward."
As well as getting forward, Jenkinson showed his proficiency at the other
end when flying in to block from Wayne Routledge when the winger looekd set
to score on the stroke of half-time. "The boys and the assistant gaffer
Macca were happy with me for that block," Jenkinson added. "It was nice and
an important time to make a tackle and stop a goal. "It was just a shame we
couldn't keep them out in the second half. It was a disappointing goal to
concede, but onwards and upwards. It's not a bad point by any means."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison embroiled in wages row
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 11th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has called upon the PFA to resolve a wages issue with West
Ham. The 21-year-old midfielder, who has made just two brief appearances for
the Hammers this season is out of contract this summer and on his way out of
the club. However the Mirror reports that Morrison has contacted the
Professional Football's Association in order to resolve a dispute he has
with West Ham over withheld wages.
West Ham, who pay Morrison circa £15,000 per week are understood to have
removed a number of fines from Morrison's salary and insist the England
under-21 was aware of those fines; not so, says Morrison.
Despite being prepared to allow Morrison to leave on a free transfer, there
have been no takers as of yet. Neil McDonald intimated recently that the
youngster would never play for West Ham again. Since joining the Hammers
three years ago this month, Morrison has made only 17 starts for the club,
scoring five goals in the process. During that period he has also been sent
on loan to Birmingham (2012/13 season), Queens Park Rangers (February to May
2014) and Cardiff City (September to December 2014).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham outcast Ravel Morrison calls in players' union to resolve Hammers
wages row
Jan 10, 2015 22:30 By Tom Hopkinson
The 21-year-old player takes action over a complaint he is owed a month's
salary of around £60,000 - but Hammers insist deductions are down to fines
The Mirror
Ravel Morrison's relationship with West Ham has plumbed new depths in a row
over wages, writes Tom Hopkinson in the Sunday People .
The 21-year-old has called in the PFA over a complaint that he did not
receive his full salary – understood to be around £60,000 – for December and
now the players' union is trying to mediate between the two parties. The
Hammers say that any money deducted is due to an accumulation of fines and
club sources insist Morrison was informed through the proper channels. The
club are trying to offload the former Manchester United youngster this month
– however, they are struggling to find a taker with his £15,000-a-week wages
and reputation major obstacles. As Sunday People Sport revealed last month,
West Ham are looking at every option that is open to them to cancel his
contract. Incredibly, that contract contains an £18million buyout clause –
although the Hammers are now happy to let him leave for nothing. Last week,
boss Sam Allardyce's assistant Neil McDonald said of Morrison: "I am not
sure if he is leaving but he won't come back into the squad."
Morrison joined West Ham in January 2013 after Sir Alex Ferguson ran out of
patience with his antics. Allardyce paid £650,000 to sign him from United in
the belief that he could get his focus back once away from the distractions
of Manchester. However, the pair's relationship deteriorated and loan spells
at QPR and Cardiff both ended in problems.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers respond to Celtic defender link
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have tonight denied any interest in Celtic defender Efe Ambrose.
The 26-year old Nigerian right back/central defender had been linked with
the Irons in various newspapers stories today along with Crystal Palace. He
has been impressive for the Scottish outfit since joining in 2012 after
joining from Israeli club FC Ashdod. One report said: "Both the Hammers and
Eagles are aware of his defensive prowess and believe they can lure the
Nigeria international south of the border." But ClaretandHugh was told a few
minutes ago: "We have seen the reports but can confirm there's no interest
as far as West Ham are concerned."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song hopes rise for Everton replay
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham medics are hopeful that Alex Song will be fit to return to action
for the Third Round FA Cup replay against Everton on Tuesday evening. The
player has been carrying a viral infection since his trip to Africa where he
ended his international career. He had hoped to play at Swansea yesterday
but was finally ruled out after failing to completely recover from the
'bug.' A club source told ClaretandHugh earlier this afternoon (Sun): "These
viral things have to run their course but he's feeling better and we are
hopeful he will make it for the Everton match. "It is impossible to be 100
per cent sure but the signs are good and he will be very keen to become
involved again. "It could have been a stressful week with the international
decision and now this so it will be great for him to put everything behind
him and start playing football again."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons confirm new Morrison row
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison and the club are embroiled in a new row…over his wages! The
club confirmed to ClaretandHugh this morning that the player had deductions
made from his £60k a month salary following reports in a national newspaper.
The Hammers say he was paid but that certain deductions were for reasons
they told Claretandhugh were "internal."
Morrison, meanwhile is reported to, have taken the matter up with the
Professional Footballers' Association as his relationship with the club
worsens. He has already been told he can now find a new club after two
spells on loan at Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City and Neil McDonald
confirmed earlier ClaretandHugh reports that his comments claiming nobody
would be leaving the club in January do not necessarily apply to Morrison.
The player has been training with the Under-21 squad and will be released at
the end of the season should he fail to find a club this month.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Sunday, January 11
Daily WHUFC News - 12th January 2015
Mixed feelings for Macca
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald was pleased with a well-earned point at Swansea but felt it
could have been three
10.01.2015
Neil McDonald admitted to feeling a mixture of frustration and satisfaction
after West Ham United earned a valuable 1-1 draw at Swansea City on
Saturday. The West Ham United assistant manager took the reins in the
absence of the unwell Sam Allardyce as Andy Carroll's sublime opener was
cancelled out by a Mark Noble own goal 16 minutes from time. 'Macca'
admitted to being disappointed that the team could not hold out after
leading at half time, but was proud of the way his team contained the threat
from their high-flying hosts. "We limited them to long-distance shots and I
think they only really had one good chance in the box when Bafetimbi Gomis
puts it over the bar. We put our bodies on the line, defended smartly and
tried to not to not give them any space in behind and when they tried to
play through us, we marshalled that quite well. "We created a few chances
ourselves and we are disappointed that we didn't get the second and kill
them off."
McDonald took on the responsibility of leading the dugout duties during the
match in the absence of Allardyce, who was laid low at home with a chest
infection. He is expected to be back commanding his technical area against
Everton on Tuesday, a job his assistant manager said he was more than happy
to help with in his absence. "Sam's got a chest infection and was watching
the game on the internet on the live stream. So he had a few tips on the
phone for us to pass on the players. He's taken time off to recover and I'm
sure he'll be fine for Tuesday. "You can follow a game live and he had a few
pointers for us and we passed on our thoughts so it all worked quite well."
Big Sam would have certainly been feeling a little better two minutes before
half time when Carroll concluded a lovely solo move by firing a fine
left-footed shot into the top corner. While it was a perfect demonstration
of the England international's underestimated ability on the floor, the
Hammers' No9 also used his strength and power to unsettle the hosts' defence
throughout. "Andy's goal was great. He used his control and then his quick
feet to stick it in the back of the net. It'll give him confidence. "We're a
bit disappointed that the goal that he scored didn't mean we came away with
the three points."
The Hammers started the game with three central defenders, with James
Tomkins drafted in alongside James Collins and Winston Reid and the
impressive Aaron Cresswell and Carl Jenkinson pushed forward into wing-back
positions. The tactic seemed to succeed, with the visitors enjoying the
better of the early exchanges, before the hosts gradually edged their way
back into the game. "I think the formation worked well. It was always going
to be that Swansea got lots of the ball and we had to deny them the space
they needed and I thought we did that very well. "We said to the players at
half time that we had to get the first and the second pass off better and if
we did that then we would find space to counter attack. We saw lots of the
ball and we did that better in the second half and that's why we got the
chances
"You always have to respect the point and that's four points we've taken off
Swansea from the two games this season."
The Hammers pushed on in the dying minutes but could not force a winner with
a combination of good goalkeeping and last-ditch defending denying Tomkins,
Jenkinson and Carroll. They will not have long to dwell on might have been,
though, with McDonald once again promising a strong starting XI for Tuesday
night's FA Cup replay with Everton at the Boleyn Ground. "We need to make
sure all the bumps and bruises clear up. We'll be focusing on the Everton
game straight away and will be looking forward to the game and looking to
win the game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC reflects on Swansea draw
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll had mixed emotions after scoring in Saturday's draw at Swansea
City
10.01.2015
Andy Carroll admitted to feeling both elation and frustration after
Saturday's 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at Swansea City. The West Ham
United No9 slammed in an outstanding opening goal at the Liberty Stadium to
put the Hammers ahead a minute before half-time, only for Swansea to snatch
an equaliser through Bafetimbi Gomis' header after the break. The
Frenchman's leveller was all the more galling as James Collins was off the
pitch at the time after suffering a head injury. Carroll himself then passed
up one of a host of opportunities missed by West Ham late on as the visitors
were forced to settle for a point after taking the lead for the second
league game in succession. "It was disappointing we didn't keep the lead,
which I thought we deserved. We kept on pressing but when Ginge went down
before the corner, that's who we needed in the box," he told West Ham TV.
"They got a free header and it's ended up in the back of the net which was
very disappointing for us. "I think we dropped off a lot in the second half.
They came out raring to go and, being away from home and 1-0 up, we didn't
want to concede We might have dropped off too much and put the pressure on
ourselves, but we did deserve to win the game. "The lads were saying after
the game that they didn't really do anything dangerous to us apart from
score the goal. It's always hard to come away to Swansea, though, so we'll
take a point and move on to the next game."
On a more positive note, Carroll had plenty to be proud of after hammering
his side into the lead with a truly magnificent goal. The forward controlled
Stewar Downing's cross on his chest before beating a defender, turning,
looking up and curling an unstoppable shot into the top right-hand corner of
Lukasz Fabianski's net. "The ball came in and I brought it down and tried to
get my shot off. I stood up a few players and hit it and it's gone in the
back of the net and it was great. I was obviously happy with it because it
was great to go in at half-time 1-0 up. "It's good. I like to get a shot off
from outside the box when I can, but it's not very often I do get to have a
shot from there, so it was nice to finally get one and put it in the back of
the net. "Their fans were giving me a bit of stick so I basically went over
and told them to 'Shut up'! They were telling to get my ponytail cut off
too, so I grabbed hold of it - it was good banter! "Their 'keeper said at
the end 'You must be my favourite 'keeper to play against!' but I'm just
happy to score goals in any game."
Despite the inconvenience of failing to hold onto a lead for the third game
in succession, Carroll says the seventh-placed Hammers have much to be
positive about ahead of Tuesday's FA Cup third-round replay with Everton at
the Boleyn Ground. "We're doing well and we just need to keep it up. The
lads are confident and happy with where we are and how we're playing. It's
just got to carry on until the end of the season now. "It'll be a good game
on Tuesday. Hopefully we'll get the win this time because up there we should
have had it. We will bring them down to our place and hopefully we'll get
into the next round."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley: 'We didn't deserve to lose'
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley said his side did not deserve to lose 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur
09.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said his side did not deserve
to lose 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur on Friday evening. The Hammers succumbed to
their first defeat of the New Year when Tottenham took a first half lead
through Grant Ward's deflected free-kick. However, the Dev Squad rallied and
deservedly got back on level terms when Ravel Morrison equalised with a
superb bicycle kick. After the break, the game was very much in the balance
until the visitors took advantage of slack defending which allowed Harry
Winks to roll the ball home. They then secured the victory late on when Ward
scored his second of the game - another free-kick identical to his first.
Speaking after the game, Westley said: "The score was 3-1 but in terms of
how we played and how close the game was it was a lot tighter than that.
"In patches that was as good as I've seen us play, we opened them up a few
times. They had to defend very well as unit. At 1-0 down, through a
deflected free kick we got back into the game through a great bit of play
through Amos and a great finish from Ravel."
A positive for the Dev Squad was the return of Elliot Lee who played his
first 45 minutes of competitive football having picked up a hamstring injury
in early November. The 20-year-old striker put in a typically hard working
performance as he led the line by pressing the Spurs' defenders well.
Speaking about the return of Lee to the starting line-up, Westley said: "It
was good to see Lee back on the pitch, we knew at the start it would only be
45 minutes, but he played well for 45 minutes and didn't have any problems
with the injury. He had a great go and he'll ready to go again against
Everton."
The win was Tottenham's sixth of the campaign and, at least temporarily,
takes them top of the Barclays U21 Premier League. "Tottenham are a good
side, they play good football. Their academy director John McDermott has
been there 10 years plus so they have a system that they stick to. "You
need to be competitive and get after them. We needed to stay in the game and
be resilient, that is the only real criticism I have. They need to learn
that. Once they do then there ability will come through."
The Dev Squad's next game is away at Everton on Thursday 15 January, their
third game in just eleven days. Looking ahead to the game, Westley said he
would be making several changes to accommodate the busy schedule. "Everton
is our third game over a short space of time. After that we play Chelsea
quite quickly. So the team will be changed again, there were some players
rested tonight deliberately."
The Dev Squad's next home game is against Chelsea on Friday 23 January at
Rush Green Stadium, admission is FREE for Season Ticket Holders and only £3
for adults and £1 for U16s.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Swansea 1 West Ham 1
10 January 2015
Last updated at 22:43
By Mike Henson
BBC Sport
Swansea fought back to earn a point against West Ham and protect a strong
home record at the Liberty Stadium. The hosts made the best of the early
chances but fell behind as Andy Carroll floated a precise shot into the top
corner just before the break. Substitute Marvin Emnes sparked Swansea into
life and Mark Noble could only divert Bafetimbi Gomis' header into his own
net as the tide turned. West Ham came on strong, but a late onslaught could
not regain the lead. Andy Carroll has scored four goals and assisted three
in six Premier League games against the Swansea through his career. The
visitors will reflect on two points lost in their pursuit of the top four as
they dropped deeper in defence of their narrow lead. But Swansea have only
been beaten once in the Premier League at home this season and it is
difficult to deny that the hosts deserved something from the contest. West
Ham's physicality and aerial threat had hustled Swansea to a 3-1 defeat at
Upton Park in December and the hosts seemed determined not to be bullied in
the opening stages. Ashley Williams and Federico Fernandez grappled with
their opponents under every high ball, goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski commanded
his six-yard box and West Ham, without their manager Sam Allardyce on the
touchline because of illness, seemed to lack their usual intensity. They
also carved out the better chances with Gomis and and Gylfi Sigurdsson going
close before their promising start was undone and Carroll showed there is
more to his game than just old-fashioned target man. The Hammers' record
signing had scored with two headers in the reverse fixture, but on this
occasion deftly controlled Stewart Downing's cross on his chest before
switching feet to buy a yard of space and clipping a superb shot into the
top corner from 15 yards. Carroll's gleeful celebrations in front of a
particularly vocal section of the home support had scarcely finished when
Carl Jenkinson produced a superb last-ditch sliding block to deny Wayne
Routledge at the other end and ensure the lead lasted until the break. West
Ham's advantage was barely threatened in the early part of the second half,
with James Collins almost doubling their lead with a close-range header.
The tone of the game changed though as Garry Monk brought on Emnes and Modou
Barrow for Nathan Dyer and Routledge, focusing his attack on the heart of
the Hammers defence. The Swans, for whom Manchester City target Wilfried
Bony was absent on international duty, immediately had more central threat
with Gomis scooping a presentable chance over the bar before glancing a
header towards goal and seeing Noble turn into his own net as he tried to
clear. It set up a grandstand finish and West Ham came closest to a winner
through Stewart Downing's 20-yarder and James Tomkins' header, before
running out of time.
Swansea manager Garry Monk on Bafetimbi Gomis: "I brought Bafi in the summer
and he has worked very well. He has been frustrated with his game time but
the games he has played he has shown his quality. "Now he has the perfect
run and you saw against West Ham the quality he has, and in the coming weeks
he will be an even better player."
West Ham assistant Neil McDonald: "I think we should have won as we created
some really good chances. "Andy's goal set us up and it was a very pleasing
goal because we have worked on his movement in the box. "The first touch was
great, he showed fast feet to get half a yard and he sticks it in. People
think he is just a lump but he has more to his game. He has great touch and
is a goalscorer with his head or feet."
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Swansea 1-1 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 10th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham had to settle for a point against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium
this afternoon having thrown away a third successive lead.
There will be a great deal of frustration in the West Ham camp after they
contrived to throw away a winning position for the third match in a row,
having been similarly foiled by West Bromwich Albion and Everton in 2015.
However stand-in boss Neil McDonald - deputising for a sick Sam Allardyce -
will be pleased at the manner in which his team ended the game, with Swansea
mostly on the backfoot for the last 15 minutes of the game.
Andy Carroll gave West Ham a 43rd-minute lead with an exquisite piece of
solo skill, turning on a sixpence before lifting the ball over the head of
Lukasz Fabianski. However the Irons' slender advantage was nullified just
16 minutes from full time when Mark Noble inadvertently turned Bafetimbi
Gomis' header from a corner over the line - whilst the Swansea forward's
marker, James Collins, was off the field receiving treatment. The hosts'
equaliser was the signal for a renewed push by McDonald's men, who ended the
game in complete control without managing to find the killer touch that
would have transformed one point into three.
Stewart Downing was inches away from restoring West Ham's lead on 82 minutes
when his curling effort was tipped wide by Fabianski. The 'keeper was on
hand again 60 seconds later to deny Man of the Match Carl Jenkinson's
long-range effort. James Tomkins was next to be denied when his goal-bound
header from a Downing corner was hacked off the line by the alert Neil
Taylor before both Aaron Cresswell and Andy Carroll were thwarted by
Fabianski, who enjoyed a large slice of good fortune having spilled the
full-back's free kick. Sadly it wasn't to be and whilst the point is a
reasonable return, there will be few returning from Wales to London tonight
not thinking that it really should have been all three.
West Ham Utd: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Collins, Cresswell, Noble,
Nolan, Downing, Carroll, Valencia.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, O'Brien, Poyet, Amalfitano, Jarvis, Vaz Te, Cole.
Swansea City: Fabianski, Rangel, Williams, Fernandez, Taylor, Britton,
Carroll, Sigurdsson, Dyer, Routledge, Gomis.
Subs: Tremmel, Tiendalli, Emnes, Barrow, Oliveira, Bartley, Fulton.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Swansea peg back West Ham to draw 1-1 at the Liberty Stadium
By Adam Bate. Last Updated: 10/01/15 9:50pm
SSN
West Ham had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Swansea despite having the better
chances at the Liberty Stadium. Andy Carroll scored a fine goal to give the
visitors the lead before the break but Swansea levelled things late on when
a header by Bafetimbi Gomis found the net via Mark Noble. The Hammers, with
Neil McDonald taking charge on the bench due to an illness to Sam Allardyce,
almost forced a winner but found Lukasz Fabianski in good form and the
points were shared. McDonald had West Ham lined up in a 3-5-2 formation and
the away side appeared content to soak up pressure in the early stages as
Swansea started the brighter. Gomis, deputising for Manchester City target
Wilfried Bony while the Ivorian is on Africa Cup of Nations duty, had the
first opportunity but couldn't get on the end of Nathan Dyer's cross.
However, the Hammers soon got a foothold in the game with Carroll holding
the ball up well in attack and Carl Jenkinson and Kevin Nolan each curling
right-footed efforts over the bar. Gomis looked a real handful for the Swans
but was dispossessed when one-on-one with James Tomkins and further chances
were spurned by Gylfi Sigurdsson. Twice the attacking midfielder was fed by
Dyer on the right but he failed to connect properly both times and the home
side were soon made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal.
Opening goal
Stewart Downing swung in a cross from the left and Carroll took the ball on
his chest before nodding it away from Ashley Williams. There was still
plenty of cover but Carroll proceeded to drop the shoulder to buy a yard of
space from Federico Fernandez and curled the ball left-footed into the far
corner of the net. Garry Monk's side attempted to respond immediately but
Jenkinson produced a brilliant piece of last-ditch defending to deny Wayne
Routledge from point-blank range. After the interval, West Ham continued to
look a threat with Jenkinson enjoying his wing-back role and finding Carroll
with a low cross to the near post that the striker fired just wide of the
post.
James Collins subsequently headed wide from Downing's corner before Enner
Valencia almost latched onto an Adrian goal-kick when Rangel misjudged his
header back to his own goalkeeper. Swansea's possession failing to find a
way beyond a compact West Ham defence to the frustration of the crowd with
one overhit cross by Routledge seeming to sum things up. Monk tried to
freshen things up by removing Dyer and Routledge for Modou Barrow and Marvin
Emnes and the latter immediately set up Gomis only for the striker to spoon
his shot over the bar. But with West Ham defending ever deeper, the
equaliser did come in the 74th minute when Gomis headed Sigurdsson's
left-wing corner against the post and the ball ricocheted in off Noble.
Emotion
Gomis didn't seem to mind and appeared overcome by emotion when celebrating
with a French flag, calling to mind the tragic events in Paris earlier in
the week. If that might have been the prelude to some late Swansea pressure,
West Ham had other ideas with Downing and Jenkinson forcing fine saves from
Fabianski in quick succession. A sweeping move from West Ham led to another
corner that Tomkins headed goalwards only for Neil Taylor to clear off the
line as Swansea looked to be buckling. Aaron Cresswell tested Fabianski with
a low free-kick that the goalkeeper spilled and Carroll looked set to bundle
home the winner only for the Pole to react quickly to deny him. There were
no further opportunities and while Swansea and West Ham extend their winless
streaks to three and four games respectively, their efforts showed why both
remain in the top half.
Soccer Saturday analysis – Matt Le Tissier
Fabianski was the busier goalkeeper of the two and Swansea probably had a
little more possession than West Ham, but I thought in the end a draw was a
pretty fair result. Fabianski made a couple of very good saves, particularly
one from Downing. I would imagine Arsenal are maybe looking at that and
thinking 'he may be better than what we've got'. I was really impressed with
Jenkinson down the right-hand side; he pushed on a lot during the game and
got himself into some good crossing positions. He was a real threat down the
right-hand side.
Player ratings
Swansea: Fabianski (7), Rangel (6), Fernandez (6), Williams (6), Taylor (7),
T.Carroll (6), Britton (6), Dyer (7), Sigurdsson (6), Routledge (5), Gomis
(7).
Subs: Emnes (6), Barrow (6), Oliveira (6).
West Ham: Adrian (6), Jenkinson (7), Tomkins (7), Reid (7), Collins (7),
Cresswell (6), Noble (6), Nolan (6), Downing (7), Valencia (7), A.Carroll
(8)
Subs: Amalfitano (6), Poyet (6).
Man of the match: Andy Carroll.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham assistant manager Neil McDonald disappointed with 1-1 draw at
Swansea
Last Updated: 10/01/15 6:27pm
SSN
West Ham assistant boss Neil McDonald was disappointed to see his side draw
1-1 at Swansea after a strong performance at the Liberty Stadium. Taking
charge of the team in the absence of Sam Allardyce due to illness, McDonald
saw the Hammers take the lead through Andy Carroll only to be pegged back
when Mark Noble could only divert a Bafetimbi Gomis header into his own net.
West Ham had chances to win it late on but had to settle for a point and
McDonald felt that was the least the visitors deserved. "After looking at
all the half-chances that Swansea have had and obviously scoring from a
corner, we're very disappointed that we haven't come away with the three
points," he told Sky Sports. "We created very good chances and Andy
Carroll's goal was the pick of the bunch. We've had a couple cleared off the
line and a couple go just wide of the post so we've got at them."
Frustration
Swansea's equaliser came while West Ham centre-back James Collins was off
the field getting treatment for a head injury and that was a further cause
of frustration for McDonald. "He's got a knock on the head and the referee
has indicated that he can come back on the pitch and then said to our
medical staff that he's got to go off the pitch," he added. "So there was a
little bit of a misunderstanding happened there. The corner has come in and
obviously Ginge is one of our markers, we haven't cleared it and they've
scored. "We're disappointed when we concede set plays because we work very
hard on them."
Although Allardyce was not present at the Liberty Stadium, the West Ham boss
made his presence felt and McDonald confirmed he was the man on the other
end of the phone throughout the match. "It certainly wasn't Pizza Express or
anything like that," said McDonald. "He was just trying to give us a few
pointers and things like that from what he was seeing on TV and we tried to
relate that to the players."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: 'We let ourselves down"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The trouble with that Andy Carroll is he's only any good in the air isn't
he? Well the big fella nailed that nonsense once and for all today and I
hope you won't mind me saying I've always said he was good on the deck. That
was one blinding goal and the celebration which followed was brilliant. he'd
been getting a lot of stick from the Swansea fans and had a great time
putting it up to 'em.
We played some really good football at times today and had we come away with
a point this time last year we would have been doing some big time
celebrating. But we let ourselves down a bit in the second half and started
to defend what we had. It's as much to do with the players as the manager.
When you haven't won for a while there's a collective psyche kicks in but
it's the wrong way to go. We started defending deeper and deeper and you
just knew what was going to happen. It was a real shame to see it happen
because the further we went into our shell the harder it was always going to
be to come out.
The goal was really unfortunate for Mark Noble but there was nothing he
could do and to be fair we responded really well, creating a lot of chances
towards the end. The fact is though that we've now gone five without a win
and we need to get that one on the board either against Everton on Tuesday,
Hull on Saturday or both of course. After that it's Liverpool at their place
and Man United at the Boleyn. These are free hits and both teams are
beatable. They are definitely not what they once were. Every team will have
its little disappointing run but once we have sorted Everton, Hull or both
we'll be back on our way again. No problem.
Come on you Irons.
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Fans blast Irons 'safety first' policy
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham fans have been responding to this afternoon 's 1-1 draw at Swansea
on the ClaretandHugh Facebook forum and website "Leave a Comment" area.
Despite a thrilling game and a cracking Andy Carroll goal, the majority
appear to believe it was an opportunity missed.
Here's a selection of immediate post match comments:
Neil Abrey As far as today was concerned I do not understand why we would
start trying to defend a 1-0 lead with more than half the game left to play
especially when we look a decent team when we play football. However,
realistically we don't want to qualify for Europe next year. We will need to
sign Jenkinson, Song and Reid (or equivalents) just to stand still) and it
is not as if any big money will be coming in from selling anyone. I don't
think we will have the squad to compete in domestic and European
competitions.
PennsylvaniaHammer: As the season goes on, for me, it's clear that Jenks and
Creswell have been the biggest difference. Song, Sakho and Downing's
resurrection have all played a massive part but if we lost either of those
two I think we would notice it more than any other absences
Lee Pearce Draw is not bad at all. Remember that winless run includes
Swansea n Chelski away and Arsenal at home. Not easy games . . This "new
team" is only in its first season. Improvement doesnt happen over night.
COYI
Ricky Charlie Hebdo Peters why is the management team of the mindset to sit
back on a lead .. surely the best form of defence is attack ….
David Head Sorry about the same old thing, but how much more mobile did we
look when the teacher's pet Nolan came off, he should be an impact sub at
best, we have better players now. I bet Sam ships out Poyet to keep a place
for Nolan in cm.
Martin Pacetti Nothing like sitting back though and waiting for them to
level, how many times.
Alan Goulding Its Just not good
Richard Trezise My bet for Tuesday is a screw up and then lots of excuses
and blame from the manager. Not one bit of it will be directed at himself.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll belter but Irons winless run goes on
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Swansea 1 Irons 1
West Ham were forced to settle for a draw in an often thrilling affir which
saw Andy Carroll score a goal of the season qualifier.
Sadly, Swansea equalised through Bafétimbi Gomis but on the balance of play
-disappointing though it was – a draw was probably a justified result. The
big fella had given the Irons their lead when he took two touches with his
head two touches with his head from Downing's cross, before nicking the ball
from Fernandez, turning and smashing home a top right hand corner belter. It
was his fourth goal of the sdeason – three of them coming against the Welsh
outfit. Until then chances had been few and far between although the
influential Gylfi Sigurdsson had a chance when firing straight at Adrian at
the end of a fine move. The Hammers had never allowed the hosts to settle
into their normal free flowing home ground style and Garry Monk's men could
never get really underway. However, immediately following Carroll's
blockbuster Carl Jenkinson produced a magnificent block to deny Routledge.
Aaron Cresswell on the other side, produced a flawless display, defending
superbly and getting forward at every opportunity to constantly trouble the
Swansea defence.
Sigurdsson was a constant menace popping up in space to prompt Swansea
forward but the Irons should have been two up when an unmarked Collins
guided his header from Noble's corner wide. But as the game swung from one
end to the other it was Gomis who rose above the Hammers defence from
Sigurdsson's corner before the ball crashed into the post and off Noble into
the net. That prompted a serious reaction from the Irons with both Downing
and Jenkinson bring fantastic flying saves from Fabianksi. The Taylor
cleared a Tomkins header off the line and a Cresswell freekick was spilled
by the Swansea keeper but Carroll could toe end the rebound past him.
Adrian 5 Jenkinson 7 Reid 6, Toimkins 7, Collins 7 Cresswell 9 noble 7 Nolan
6 Downing 6 Carroll 7 Valencia 5 Subs Amalfitino 6 Poyet 5
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reportedly eye Matija Nastasic as possible Reid replacement
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham United are reportedly interested in a deal to sign Manchester City
defender Matija Nastasic. Whilst West Ham fans have been hoping that Winston
Reid would sign a new contract to stay at Upton Park, manager Sam Allardyce
effectively ended any lingering doubts by saying that the New Zealand
international has no future with the Hammers. "There is no future for
Winston Reid at West Ham at the moment," said Allardyce earlier this week.
"His contract finishes on June 30. He hasn't said he's going to sign or that
he's not going to sign." "I'm airing on the side that he isn't going to sign
by the feel of it and look of it. Knowing how the football world works,
talking to managers about the situation it's very unlikely Winston will sign
for us given what people are saying to me," he added.
With Arsenal and Liverpool both lining up moves to sign the 26-year-old,
it's time for Hammers boss Allardyce to start identifying potential
replacements for Reid. The likes of Aleksandar Dragovic (Dynamo Kiev),
Martin Hinteregger (Red Bull Salzburg) and Nicolas N'Koulou (Marseille) have
all been touted as possible contingency plans for Allardyce, but he may look
closer to home. According to the Daily Mail, the Hammers are considering a
move to hijack Schalke's move for Manchester City outcast Matija Nastasic.
The Serbian international, 21, has been frozen out by City manager Manuel
Pellegrini, and looked set to sign for Schalke in £10m deal this week.
But with nothing signed and sealed, the Daily Mail suggest that West Ham may
well hijack that bid, with the former Fiorentina defender seen as a
potential replacement for Reid.
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West Ham & Crystal Palace will bid for Celtic's Efe Ambrose
HITC
Tim Poole
The Premier League duo are said to be plotting a £3 million offer. West Ham
United and Crystal Palace are planning a £3 million bid for Celtic defender
Efe Ambrose, according to the Sunday Mirror. The 26-year-old has been at
Celtic since 2012 but is reportedly the subject of Premier League interest,
with the defender said to be willing to move from the SPL to the English top
flight. Ambrose, however, has been much criticised for his form by
supporters this season, although Celtic boss Ronny Deila has kept faith in
him throughout the campaign. Ambrose could be of use to both West Ham and
Crystal Palace as his versatility sees him able to play both at centre-back
and at right-back. Another Celtic defender linked with a Premier League move
this January has been Virgil van Dijk but the Mirror now claim Ambrose is a
target for two top-flight sides. West Ham and Crystal Palace have both
displayed significant room for improvement defensively in recent weeks - but
whether the 26-year-old is the solution is another matter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reportedly set to offer new contract to goalkeeper Adrian
HITC
Olly Dawes
After a number of great displays, West Ham are reportedly set to offer a new
contract to goalkeeper Adrian. West Ham's great season has hit something of
a stumbling block, with Sam Allardyce's men going five games in all
competitions without a win. Two defeats and three draws have slightly
dampened spirits, and the ongoing saga over Winston Reid's contract
situation with the club is another concern.
The 26-year-old New Zealand international is out of contract at the end of
this season, and manager Allardyce even admitted that Reid doesn't have any
future with the club given that he seemingly has no intention of signing a
new deal to stay with the Hammers. In a bid to prevent a similar situation
happening in the future, West Ham are reportedly set to offer a new contract
to goalkeeper Adrian. The 28-year-old Spaniard joined in 2013 from Real
Betis, and was initially considered to be something of a backup to Jussi
Jaaskelainen. Yet now, Adrian is one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier
League after a superb season between the sticks for West Ham - leading the
Hammers to pursue a new contract. Adrian's current contract expires in 2016,
meaning he has just 18 months left to run on his deal - and it seems they
may have learned their lesson from the Reid situation by offering him a new
two-year extension.
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WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald was pleased with a well-earned point at Swansea but felt it
could have been three
10.01.2015
Neil McDonald admitted to feeling a mixture of frustration and satisfaction
after West Ham United earned a valuable 1-1 draw at Swansea City on
Saturday. The West Ham United assistant manager took the reins in the
absence of the unwell Sam Allardyce as Andy Carroll's sublime opener was
cancelled out by a Mark Noble own goal 16 minutes from time. 'Macca'
admitted to being disappointed that the team could not hold out after
leading at half time, but was proud of the way his team contained the threat
from their high-flying hosts. "We limited them to long-distance shots and I
think they only really had one good chance in the box when Bafetimbi Gomis
puts it over the bar. We put our bodies on the line, defended smartly and
tried to not to not give them any space in behind and when they tried to
play through us, we marshalled that quite well. "We created a few chances
ourselves and we are disappointed that we didn't get the second and kill
them off."
McDonald took on the responsibility of leading the dugout duties during the
match in the absence of Allardyce, who was laid low at home with a chest
infection. He is expected to be back commanding his technical area against
Everton on Tuesday, a job his assistant manager said he was more than happy
to help with in his absence. "Sam's got a chest infection and was watching
the game on the internet on the live stream. So he had a few tips on the
phone for us to pass on the players. He's taken time off to recover and I'm
sure he'll be fine for Tuesday. "You can follow a game live and he had a few
pointers for us and we passed on our thoughts so it all worked quite well."
Big Sam would have certainly been feeling a little better two minutes before
half time when Carroll concluded a lovely solo move by firing a fine
left-footed shot into the top corner. While it was a perfect demonstration
of the England international's underestimated ability on the floor, the
Hammers' No9 also used his strength and power to unsettle the hosts' defence
throughout. "Andy's goal was great. He used his control and then his quick
feet to stick it in the back of the net. It'll give him confidence. "We're a
bit disappointed that the goal that he scored didn't mean we came away with
the three points."
The Hammers started the game with three central defenders, with James
Tomkins drafted in alongside James Collins and Winston Reid and the
impressive Aaron Cresswell and Carl Jenkinson pushed forward into wing-back
positions. The tactic seemed to succeed, with the visitors enjoying the
better of the early exchanges, before the hosts gradually edged their way
back into the game. "I think the formation worked well. It was always going
to be that Swansea got lots of the ball and we had to deny them the space
they needed and I thought we did that very well. "We said to the players at
half time that we had to get the first and the second pass off better and if
we did that then we would find space to counter attack. We saw lots of the
ball and we did that better in the second half and that's why we got the
chances
"You always have to respect the point and that's four points we've taken off
Swansea from the two games this season."
The Hammers pushed on in the dying minutes but could not force a winner with
a combination of good goalkeeping and last-ditch defending denying Tomkins,
Jenkinson and Carroll. They will not have long to dwell on might have been,
though, with McDonald once again promising a strong starting XI for Tuesday
night's FA Cup replay with Everton at the Boleyn Ground. "We need to make
sure all the bumps and bruises clear up. We'll be focusing on the Everton
game straight away and will be looking forward to the game and looking to
win the game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC reflects on Swansea draw
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll had mixed emotions after scoring in Saturday's draw at Swansea
City
10.01.2015
Andy Carroll admitted to feeling both elation and frustration after
Saturday's 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at Swansea City. The West Ham
United No9 slammed in an outstanding opening goal at the Liberty Stadium to
put the Hammers ahead a minute before half-time, only for Swansea to snatch
an equaliser through Bafetimbi Gomis' header after the break. The
Frenchman's leveller was all the more galling as James Collins was off the
pitch at the time after suffering a head injury. Carroll himself then passed
up one of a host of opportunities missed by West Ham late on as the visitors
were forced to settle for a point after taking the lead for the second
league game in succession. "It was disappointing we didn't keep the lead,
which I thought we deserved. We kept on pressing but when Ginge went down
before the corner, that's who we needed in the box," he told West Ham TV.
"They got a free header and it's ended up in the back of the net which was
very disappointing for us. "I think we dropped off a lot in the second half.
They came out raring to go and, being away from home and 1-0 up, we didn't
want to concede We might have dropped off too much and put the pressure on
ourselves, but we did deserve to win the game. "The lads were saying after
the game that they didn't really do anything dangerous to us apart from
score the goal. It's always hard to come away to Swansea, though, so we'll
take a point and move on to the next game."
On a more positive note, Carroll had plenty to be proud of after hammering
his side into the lead with a truly magnificent goal. The forward controlled
Stewar Downing's cross on his chest before beating a defender, turning,
looking up and curling an unstoppable shot into the top right-hand corner of
Lukasz Fabianski's net. "The ball came in and I brought it down and tried to
get my shot off. I stood up a few players and hit it and it's gone in the
back of the net and it was great. I was obviously happy with it because it
was great to go in at half-time 1-0 up. "It's good. I like to get a shot off
from outside the box when I can, but it's not very often I do get to have a
shot from there, so it was nice to finally get one and put it in the back of
the net. "Their fans were giving me a bit of stick so I basically went over
and told them to 'Shut up'! They were telling to get my ponytail cut off
too, so I grabbed hold of it - it was good banter! "Their 'keeper said at
the end 'You must be my favourite 'keeper to play against!' but I'm just
happy to score goals in any game."
Despite the inconvenience of failing to hold onto a lead for the third game
in succession, Carroll says the seventh-placed Hammers have much to be
positive about ahead of Tuesday's FA Cup third-round replay with Everton at
the Boleyn Ground. "We're doing well and we just need to keep it up. The
lads are confident and happy with where we are and how we're playing. It's
just got to carry on until the end of the season now. "It'll be a good game
on Tuesday. Hopefully we'll get the win this time because up there we should
have had it. We will bring them down to our place and hopefully we'll get
into the next round."
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Westley: 'We didn't deserve to lose'
WHUFC.com
Terry Westley said his side did not deserve to lose 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur
09.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said his side did not deserve
to lose 3-1 to Tottenham Hotspur on Friday evening. The Hammers succumbed to
their first defeat of the New Year when Tottenham took a first half lead
through Grant Ward's deflected free-kick. However, the Dev Squad rallied and
deservedly got back on level terms when Ravel Morrison equalised with a
superb bicycle kick. After the break, the game was very much in the balance
until the visitors took advantage of slack defending which allowed Harry
Winks to roll the ball home. They then secured the victory late on when Ward
scored his second of the game - another free-kick identical to his first.
Speaking after the game, Westley said: "The score was 3-1 but in terms of
how we played and how close the game was it was a lot tighter than that.
"In patches that was as good as I've seen us play, we opened them up a few
times. They had to defend very well as unit. At 1-0 down, through a
deflected free kick we got back into the game through a great bit of play
through Amos and a great finish from Ravel."
A positive for the Dev Squad was the return of Elliot Lee who played his
first 45 minutes of competitive football having picked up a hamstring injury
in early November. The 20-year-old striker put in a typically hard working
performance as he led the line by pressing the Spurs' defenders well.
Speaking about the return of Lee to the starting line-up, Westley said: "It
was good to see Lee back on the pitch, we knew at the start it would only be
45 minutes, but he played well for 45 minutes and didn't have any problems
with the injury. He had a great go and he'll ready to go again against
Everton."
The win was Tottenham's sixth of the campaign and, at least temporarily,
takes them top of the Barclays U21 Premier League. "Tottenham are a good
side, they play good football. Their academy director John McDermott has
been there 10 years plus so they have a system that they stick to. "You
need to be competitive and get after them. We needed to stay in the game and
be resilient, that is the only real criticism I have. They need to learn
that. Once they do then there ability will come through."
The Dev Squad's next game is away at Everton on Thursday 15 January, their
third game in just eleven days. Looking ahead to the game, Westley said he
would be making several changes to accommodate the busy schedule. "Everton
is our third game over a short space of time. After that we play Chelsea
quite quickly. So the team will be changed again, there were some players
rested tonight deliberately."
The Dev Squad's next home game is against Chelsea on Friday 23 January at
Rush Green Stadium, admission is FREE for Season Ticket Holders and only £3
for adults and £1 for U16s.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Swansea 1 West Ham 1
10 January 2015
Last updated at 22:43
By Mike Henson
BBC Sport
Swansea fought back to earn a point against West Ham and protect a strong
home record at the Liberty Stadium. The hosts made the best of the early
chances but fell behind as Andy Carroll floated a precise shot into the top
corner just before the break. Substitute Marvin Emnes sparked Swansea into
life and Mark Noble could only divert Bafetimbi Gomis' header into his own
net as the tide turned. West Ham came on strong, but a late onslaught could
not regain the lead. Andy Carroll has scored four goals and assisted three
in six Premier League games against the Swansea through his career. The
visitors will reflect on two points lost in their pursuit of the top four as
they dropped deeper in defence of their narrow lead. But Swansea have only
been beaten once in the Premier League at home this season and it is
difficult to deny that the hosts deserved something from the contest. West
Ham's physicality and aerial threat had hustled Swansea to a 3-1 defeat at
Upton Park in December and the hosts seemed determined not to be bullied in
the opening stages. Ashley Williams and Federico Fernandez grappled with
their opponents under every high ball, goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski commanded
his six-yard box and West Ham, without their manager Sam Allardyce on the
touchline because of illness, seemed to lack their usual intensity. They
also carved out the better chances with Gomis and and Gylfi Sigurdsson going
close before their promising start was undone and Carroll showed there is
more to his game than just old-fashioned target man. The Hammers' record
signing had scored with two headers in the reverse fixture, but on this
occasion deftly controlled Stewart Downing's cross on his chest before
switching feet to buy a yard of space and clipping a superb shot into the
top corner from 15 yards. Carroll's gleeful celebrations in front of a
particularly vocal section of the home support had scarcely finished when
Carl Jenkinson produced a superb last-ditch sliding block to deny Wayne
Routledge at the other end and ensure the lead lasted until the break. West
Ham's advantage was barely threatened in the early part of the second half,
with James Collins almost doubling their lead with a close-range header.
The tone of the game changed though as Garry Monk brought on Emnes and Modou
Barrow for Nathan Dyer and Routledge, focusing his attack on the heart of
the Hammers defence. The Swans, for whom Manchester City target Wilfried
Bony was absent on international duty, immediately had more central threat
with Gomis scooping a presentable chance over the bar before glancing a
header towards goal and seeing Noble turn into his own net as he tried to
clear. It set up a grandstand finish and West Ham came closest to a winner
through Stewart Downing's 20-yarder and James Tomkins' header, before
running out of time.
Swansea manager Garry Monk on Bafetimbi Gomis: "I brought Bafi in the summer
and he has worked very well. He has been frustrated with his game time but
the games he has played he has shown his quality. "Now he has the perfect
run and you saw against West Ham the quality he has, and in the coming weeks
he will be an even better player."
West Ham assistant Neil McDonald: "I think we should have won as we created
some really good chances. "Andy's goal set us up and it was a very pleasing
goal because we have worked on his movement in the box. "The first touch was
great, he showed fast feet to get half a yard and he sticks it in. People
think he is just a lump but he has more to his game. He has great touch and
is a goalscorer with his head or feet."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Swansea 1-1 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 10th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham had to settle for a point against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium
this afternoon having thrown away a third successive lead.
There will be a great deal of frustration in the West Ham camp after they
contrived to throw away a winning position for the third match in a row,
having been similarly foiled by West Bromwich Albion and Everton in 2015.
However stand-in boss Neil McDonald - deputising for a sick Sam Allardyce -
will be pleased at the manner in which his team ended the game, with Swansea
mostly on the backfoot for the last 15 minutes of the game.
Andy Carroll gave West Ham a 43rd-minute lead with an exquisite piece of
solo skill, turning on a sixpence before lifting the ball over the head of
Lukasz Fabianski. However the Irons' slender advantage was nullified just
16 minutes from full time when Mark Noble inadvertently turned Bafetimbi
Gomis' header from a corner over the line - whilst the Swansea forward's
marker, James Collins, was off the field receiving treatment. The hosts'
equaliser was the signal for a renewed push by McDonald's men, who ended the
game in complete control without managing to find the killer touch that
would have transformed one point into three.
Stewart Downing was inches away from restoring West Ham's lead on 82 minutes
when his curling effort was tipped wide by Fabianski. The 'keeper was on
hand again 60 seconds later to deny Man of the Match Carl Jenkinson's
long-range effort. James Tomkins was next to be denied when his goal-bound
header from a Downing corner was hacked off the line by the alert Neil
Taylor before both Aaron Cresswell and Andy Carroll were thwarted by
Fabianski, who enjoyed a large slice of good fortune having spilled the
full-back's free kick. Sadly it wasn't to be and whilst the point is a
reasonable return, there will be few returning from Wales to London tonight
not thinking that it really should have been all three.
West Ham Utd: Adrian, Jenkinson, Tomkins, Reid, Collins, Cresswell, Noble,
Nolan, Downing, Carroll, Valencia.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, O'Brien, Poyet, Amalfitano, Jarvis, Vaz Te, Cole.
Swansea City: Fabianski, Rangel, Williams, Fernandez, Taylor, Britton,
Carroll, Sigurdsson, Dyer, Routledge, Gomis.
Subs: Tremmel, Tiendalli, Emnes, Barrow, Oliveira, Bartley, Fulton.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Swansea peg back West Ham to draw 1-1 at the Liberty Stadium
By Adam Bate. Last Updated: 10/01/15 9:50pm
SSN
West Ham had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Swansea despite having the better
chances at the Liberty Stadium. Andy Carroll scored a fine goal to give the
visitors the lead before the break but Swansea levelled things late on when
a header by Bafetimbi Gomis found the net via Mark Noble. The Hammers, with
Neil McDonald taking charge on the bench due to an illness to Sam Allardyce,
almost forced a winner but found Lukasz Fabianski in good form and the
points were shared. McDonald had West Ham lined up in a 3-5-2 formation and
the away side appeared content to soak up pressure in the early stages as
Swansea started the brighter. Gomis, deputising for Manchester City target
Wilfried Bony while the Ivorian is on Africa Cup of Nations duty, had the
first opportunity but couldn't get on the end of Nathan Dyer's cross.
However, the Hammers soon got a foothold in the game with Carroll holding
the ball up well in attack and Carl Jenkinson and Kevin Nolan each curling
right-footed efforts over the bar. Gomis looked a real handful for the Swans
but was dispossessed when one-on-one with James Tomkins and further chances
were spurned by Gylfi Sigurdsson. Twice the attacking midfielder was fed by
Dyer on the right but he failed to connect properly both times and the home
side were soon made to pay for their profligacy in front of goal.
Opening goal
Stewart Downing swung in a cross from the left and Carroll took the ball on
his chest before nodding it away from Ashley Williams. There was still
plenty of cover but Carroll proceeded to drop the shoulder to buy a yard of
space from Federico Fernandez and curled the ball left-footed into the far
corner of the net. Garry Monk's side attempted to respond immediately but
Jenkinson produced a brilliant piece of last-ditch defending to deny Wayne
Routledge from point-blank range. After the interval, West Ham continued to
look a threat with Jenkinson enjoying his wing-back role and finding Carroll
with a low cross to the near post that the striker fired just wide of the
post.
James Collins subsequently headed wide from Downing's corner before Enner
Valencia almost latched onto an Adrian goal-kick when Rangel misjudged his
header back to his own goalkeeper. Swansea's possession failing to find a
way beyond a compact West Ham defence to the frustration of the crowd with
one overhit cross by Routledge seeming to sum things up. Monk tried to
freshen things up by removing Dyer and Routledge for Modou Barrow and Marvin
Emnes and the latter immediately set up Gomis only for the striker to spoon
his shot over the bar. But with West Ham defending ever deeper, the
equaliser did come in the 74th minute when Gomis headed Sigurdsson's
left-wing corner against the post and the ball ricocheted in off Noble.
Emotion
Gomis didn't seem to mind and appeared overcome by emotion when celebrating
with a French flag, calling to mind the tragic events in Paris earlier in
the week. If that might have been the prelude to some late Swansea pressure,
West Ham had other ideas with Downing and Jenkinson forcing fine saves from
Fabianski in quick succession. A sweeping move from West Ham led to another
corner that Tomkins headed goalwards only for Neil Taylor to clear off the
line as Swansea looked to be buckling. Aaron Cresswell tested Fabianski with
a low free-kick that the goalkeeper spilled and Carroll looked set to bundle
home the winner only for the Pole to react quickly to deny him. There were
no further opportunities and while Swansea and West Ham extend their winless
streaks to three and four games respectively, their efforts showed why both
remain in the top half.
Soccer Saturday analysis – Matt Le Tissier
Fabianski was the busier goalkeeper of the two and Swansea probably had a
little more possession than West Ham, but I thought in the end a draw was a
pretty fair result. Fabianski made a couple of very good saves, particularly
one from Downing. I would imagine Arsenal are maybe looking at that and
thinking 'he may be better than what we've got'. I was really impressed with
Jenkinson down the right-hand side; he pushed on a lot during the game and
got himself into some good crossing positions. He was a real threat down the
right-hand side.
Player ratings
Swansea: Fabianski (7), Rangel (6), Fernandez (6), Williams (6), Taylor (7),
T.Carroll (6), Britton (6), Dyer (7), Sigurdsson (6), Routledge (5), Gomis
(7).
Subs: Emnes (6), Barrow (6), Oliveira (6).
West Ham: Adrian (6), Jenkinson (7), Tomkins (7), Reid (7), Collins (7),
Cresswell (6), Noble (6), Nolan (6), Downing (7), Valencia (7), A.Carroll
(8)
Subs: Amalfitano (6), Poyet (6).
Man of the match: Andy Carroll.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham assistant manager Neil McDonald disappointed with 1-1 draw at
Swansea
Last Updated: 10/01/15 6:27pm
SSN
West Ham assistant boss Neil McDonald was disappointed to see his side draw
1-1 at Swansea after a strong performance at the Liberty Stadium. Taking
charge of the team in the absence of Sam Allardyce due to illness, McDonald
saw the Hammers take the lead through Andy Carroll only to be pegged back
when Mark Noble could only divert a Bafetimbi Gomis header into his own net.
West Ham had chances to win it late on but had to settle for a point and
McDonald felt that was the least the visitors deserved. "After looking at
all the half-chances that Swansea have had and obviously scoring from a
corner, we're very disappointed that we haven't come away with the three
points," he told Sky Sports. "We created very good chances and Andy
Carroll's goal was the pick of the bunch. We've had a couple cleared off the
line and a couple go just wide of the post so we've got at them."
Frustration
Swansea's equaliser came while West Ham centre-back James Collins was off
the field getting treatment for a head injury and that was a further cause
of frustration for McDonald. "He's got a knock on the head and the referee
has indicated that he can come back on the pitch and then said to our
medical staff that he's got to go off the pitch," he added. "So there was a
little bit of a misunderstanding happened there. The corner has come in and
obviously Ginge is one of our markers, we haven't cleared it and they've
scored. "We're disappointed when we concede set plays because we work very
hard on them."
Although Allardyce was not present at the Liberty Stadium, the West Ham boss
made his presence felt and McDonald confirmed he was the man on the other
end of the phone throughout the match. "It certainly wasn't Pizza Express or
anything like that," said McDonald. "He was just trying to give us a few
pointers and things like that from what he was seeing on TV and we tried to
relate that to the players."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: 'We let ourselves down"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The trouble with that Andy Carroll is he's only any good in the air isn't
he? Well the big fella nailed that nonsense once and for all today and I
hope you won't mind me saying I've always said he was good on the deck. That
was one blinding goal and the celebration which followed was brilliant. he'd
been getting a lot of stick from the Swansea fans and had a great time
putting it up to 'em.
We played some really good football at times today and had we come away with
a point this time last year we would have been doing some big time
celebrating. But we let ourselves down a bit in the second half and started
to defend what we had. It's as much to do with the players as the manager.
When you haven't won for a while there's a collective psyche kicks in but
it's the wrong way to go. We started defending deeper and deeper and you
just knew what was going to happen. It was a real shame to see it happen
because the further we went into our shell the harder it was always going to
be to come out.
The goal was really unfortunate for Mark Noble but there was nothing he
could do and to be fair we responded really well, creating a lot of chances
towards the end. The fact is though that we've now gone five without a win
and we need to get that one on the board either against Everton on Tuesday,
Hull on Saturday or both of course. After that it's Liverpool at their place
and Man United at the Boleyn. These are free hits and both teams are
beatable. They are definitely not what they once were. Every team will have
its little disappointing run but once we have sorted Everton, Hull or both
we'll be back on our way again. No problem.
Come on you Irons.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fans blast Irons 'safety first' policy
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham fans have been responding to this afternoon 's 1-1 draw at Swansea
on the ClaretandHugh Facebook forum and website "Leave a Comment" area.
Despite a thrilling game and a cracking Andy Carroll goal, the majority
appear to believe it was an opportunity missed.
Here's a selection of immediate post match comments:
Neil Abrey As far as today was concerned I do not understand why we would
start trying to defend a 1-0 lead with more than half the game left to play
especially when we look a decent team when we play football. However,
realistically we don't want to qualify for Europe next year. We will need to
sign Jenkinson, Song and Reid (or equivalents) just to stand still) and it
is not as if any big money will be coming in from selling anyone. I don't
think we will have the squad to compete in domestic and European
competitions.
PennsylvaniaHammer: As the season goes on, for me, it's clear that Jenks and
Creswell have been the biggest difference. Song, Sakho and Downing's
resurrection have all played a massive part but if we lost either of those
two I think we would notice it more than any other absences
Lee Pearce Draw is not bad at all. Remember that winless run includes
Swansea n Chelski away and Arsenal at home. Not easy games . . This "new
team" is only in its first season. Improvement doesnt happen over night.
COYI
Ricky Charlie Hebdo Peters why is the management team of the mindset to sit
back on a lead .. surely the best form of defence is attack ….
David Head Sorry about the same old thing, but how much more mobile did we
look when the teacher's pet Nolan came off, he should be an impact sub at
best, we have better players now. I bet Sam ships out Poyet to keep a place
for Nolan in cm.
Martin Pacetti Nothing like sitting back though and waiting for them to
level, how many times.
Alan Goulding Its Just not good
Richard Trezise My bet for Tuesday is a screw up and then lots of excuses
and blame from the manager. Not one bit of it will be directed at himself.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll belter but Irons winless run goes on
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 10, 2015 in Whispers
Swansea 1 Irons 1
West Ham were forced to settle for a draw in an often thrilling affir which
saw Andy Carroll score a goal of the season qualifier.
Sadly, Swansea equalised through Bafétimbi Gomis but on the balance of play
-disappointing though it was – a draw was probably a justified result. The
big fella had given the Irons their lead when he took two touches with his
head two touches with his head from Downing's cross, before nicking the ball
from Fernandez, turning and smashing home a top right hand corner belter. It
was his fourth goal of the sdeason – three of them coming against the Welsh
outfit. Until then chances had been few and far between although the
influential Gylfi Sigurdsson had a chance when firing straight at Adrian at
the end of a fine move. The Hammers had never allowed the hosts to settle
into their normal free flowing home ground style and Garry Monk's men could
never get really underway. However, immediately following Carroll's
blockbuster Carl Jenkinson produced a magnificent block to deny Routledge.
Aaron Cresswell on the other side, produced a flawless display, defending
superbly and getting forward at every opportunity to constantly trouble the
Swansea defence.
Sigurdsson was a constant menace popping up in space to prompt Swansea
forward but the Irons should have been two up when an unmarked Collins
guided his header from Noble's corner wide. But as the game swung from one
end to the other it was Gomis who rose above the Hammers defence from
Sigurdsson's corner before the ball crashed into the post and off Noble into
the net. That prompted a serious reaction from the Irons with both Downing
and Jenkinson bring fantastic flying saves from Fabianksi. The Taylor
cleared a Tomkins header off the line and a Cresswell freekick was spilled
by the Swansea keeper but Carroll could toe end the rebound past him.
Adrian 5 Jenkinson 7 Reid 6, Toimkins 7, Collins 7 Cresswell 9 noble 7 Nolan
6 Downing 6 Carroll 7 Valencia 5 Subs Amalfitino 6 Poyet 5
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reportedly eye Matija Nastasic as possible Reid replacement
HITC
Olly Dawes
West Ham United are reportedly interested in a deal to sign Manchester City
defender Matija Nastasic. Whilst West Ham fans have been hoping that Winston
Reid would sign a new contract to stay at Upton Park, manager Sam Allardyce
effectively ended any lingering doubts by saying that the New Zealand
international has no future with the Hammers. "There is no future for
Winston Reid at West Ham at the moment," said Allardyce earlier this week.
"His contract finishes on June 30. He hasn't said he's going to sign or that
he's not going to sign." "I'm airing on the side that he isn't going to sign
by the feel of it and look of it. Knowing how the football world works,
talking to managers about the situation it's very unlikely Winston will sign
for us given what people are saying to me," he added.
With Arsenal and Liverpool both lining up moves to sign the 26-year-old,
it's time for Hammers boss Allardyce to start identifying potential
replacements for Reid. The likes of Aleksandar Dragovic (Dynamo Kiev),
Martin Hinteregger (Red Bull Salzburg) and Nicolas N'Koulou (Marseille) have
all been touted as possible contingency plans for Allardyce, but he may look
closer to home. According to the Daily Mail, the Hammers are considering a
move to hijack Schalke's move for Manchester City outcast Matija Nastasic.
The Serbian international, 21, has been frozen out by City manager Manuel
Pellegrini, and looked set to sign for Schalke in £10m deal this week.
But with nothing signed and sealed, the Daily Mail suggest that West Ham may
well hijack that bid, with the former Fiorentina defender seen as a
potential replacement for Reid.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham & Crystal Palace will bid for Celtic's Efe Ambrose
HITC
Tim Poole
The Premier League duo are said to be plotting a £3 million offer. West Ham
United and Crystal Palace are planning a £3 million bid for Celtic defender
Efe Ambrose, according to the Sunday Mirror. The 26-year-old has been at
Celtic since 2012 but is reportedly the subject of Premier League interest,
with the defender said to be willing to move from the SPL to the English top
flight. Ambrose, however, has been much criticised for his form by
supporters this season, although Celtic boss Ronny Deila has kept faith in
him throughout the campaign. Ambrose could be of use to both West Ham and
Crystal Palace as his versatility sees him able to play both at centre-back
and at right-back. Another Celtic defender linked with a Premier League move
this January has been Virgil van Dijk but the Mirror now claim Ambrose is a
target for two top-flight sides. West Ham and Crystal Palace have both
displayed significant room for improvement defensively in recent weeks - but
whether the 26-year-old is the solution is another matter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham reportedly set to offer new contract to goalkeeper Adrian
HITC
Olly Dawes
After a number of great displays, West Ham are reportedly set to offer a new
contract to goalkeeper Adrian. West Ham's great season has hit something of
a stumbling block, with Sam Allardyce's men going five games in all
competitions without a win. Two defeats and three draws have slightly
dampened spirits, and the ongoing saga over Winston Reid's contract
situation with the club is another concern.
The 26-year-old New Zealand international is out of contract at the end of
this season, and manager Allardyce even admitted that Reid doesn't have any
future with the club given that he seemingly has no intention of signing a
new deal to stay with the Hammers. In a bid to prevent a similar situation
happening in the future, West Ham are reportedly set to offer a new contract
to goalkeeper Adrian. The 28-year-old Spaniard joined in 2013 from Real
Betis, and was initially considered to be something of a backup to Jussi
Jaaskelainen. Yet now, Adrian is one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier
League after a superb season between the sticks for West Ham - leading the
Hammers to pursue a new contract. Adrian's current contract expires in 2016,
meaning he has just 18 months left to run on his deal - and it seems they
may have learned their lesson from the Reid situation by offering him a new
two-year extension.
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