Daily WHUFC News - 1st February 2015

Sam reflects on Liverpool defeat
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce gives his reaction to Saturday's 2-0 Barclays Premier League
defeat at Liverpool
31.01.2015

Sam Allardyce said injuries, absences, missed opportunities and conceding
just after half-time were the major factors in West Ham United's 2-0
Barclays Premier League defeat at Liverpool. The Hammers started well at
Anfield, going toe to toe with Brendan Rodgers' side in the opening 45
minutes, only to fall behind to Raheem Sterling's goal six minutes after
half-time. West Ham then lost James Collins and Andy Carroll to hamstring
and knee injuries - adding to the absences of Cheikhou Kouyate, Diafra
Sakho, James Tomkins and Carl Jenkinson - before the returning Daniel
Sturridge drilled in the Reds' second with ten minutes remaining. There was
still time for Winston Reid to be forced off with a hamstring problem before
Joey O'Brien's late header was ruled out for a foul on home goalkeeper Simon
Mignolet. "Too many players ended up with injuries, particularly at
centre-half, and because of that we lost this game," the manager began. "In
all fairness to Ginge, because of the injuries we had in defence [in the
build-up] he tried to come in and get through this game himself, but his
hamstring injury had obviously re-occurred by half-time. "Because we had
problems in central defence, we ended up a 16-year-old Reece Oxford on the
bench. While Joey O'Brien and Guy Demel might do a job in there, we could
have thrown Reece on there, but we had Winston Reid and Andy Carroll injured
as well and James Tomkins, Carl Jenkinson and Cheik Kouyate missing so went
with the experience. "Those three coming off has thrown us into a major
crisis at the minute injury-wise and you can't expect to come to a place
like Liverpool and win when those things go against you. "As much as we did
in the first half and as good as opportunities that we created, we couldn't
find the sort of clinical finish we have found so often recently. It's been
a long time since we haven't scored a goal. We had several opportunities in
that opening half-hour to get one but we didn't convert them. "Finally,
because of the injury problems we had, they scored. I can't criticise the
lads for the effort they put in, because circumstances beyond our control
have not allowed us to get anything out of this game."

Big Sam opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation at Anfield, where West Ham remain
winless in 45 matches dating back to September 1963, and explained the
thinking behind the system. In the opening half, the approach saw the
visitors stretch Liverpool's three-man defence across the pitch, creating
space down both channels to get balls into the box. However, once the
injury-hit Hammers went behind to Sterling's well-taken finish from
Coutinho's clever pass, they struggled to put the home side under similar
pressure in the second half. "The thinking was that we do exactly what we
did in the first 30 minutes, which was to have Morgan Amalfitano and Enner
Valencia get in those spaces behind those wing-backs and drag those
centre-halves out," the manager explained. "The only problem we had was our
players not playing in there more often and with the same sort of quality
they showed in the first 15 or 20 minutes. It was a massive problem for
Liverpool with Emre Can and Mamadou Sakho running out to chase Enner and
Morgan into the wide areas. "When the back-up comes from the full-backs or
Stewart Downing then you win corners and get balls into their box. We had
seven or eight corners and finally scored in the end with one, but it would
have been too late and the referee disallowed it for whatever reason. "It
worked well at the start but because of the problems we had in the second
half, we stopped doing that and stopped being as effective by playing down
the sides of that back three. Liverpool do a high press and when you give
the ball away willy-nilly, you struggle. "In some ways, we shot ourselves in
the foot by trying to play through the midfield too much when we had set out
tactically to play a certain way and it worked so well for us in the first
half. "In the end, I think the injuries really told on us and we never got
anything out of the game. It looks like they beat us easily, but by
half-time they were struggling and we were finding it very easy to cope with
them. "We ended up with ten men and it was a real kick in the lower regions
for us. The problem now is how we cope going forward from here. This is our
first real injury crisis of the season and we really need to get over it as
quickly as we can, particularly with the FA Cup game and Manchester United
next week.
"We'll re-assess the lads during the week and see how many of them can get
fit and hopefully there won't be a considerable number of players missing.
Hopefully, in the next two weeks we'll get the majority back and we'll go
again."

With the transfer window closing at 11pm on Monday evening, Big Sam was also
asked in his Sky Sports post-match interview about the prospect of bringing
in reinforcements to bolster his squad. The manager admitted a move for
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is unlikely to materialise: "It
doesn't look like it [is going ahead], no. It looks like it's broken down on
negotiations."

Big Sam was also asked by Sky Sports about the absence of Sakho from
Saturday's squad, to which his response was: "With Sakho it is down to the
situation we are in with FIFA. While it is happening it is not conducive for
us to be putting him on the field until it is resolved, sadly. If you speak
to the lad you would know how angry and disappointed he is at being denied
the opportunity to play football when it is not our fault. "We have covered
all the rules and regulations but at this moment in time it is sensible to
do the right thing and not get involved any more - that is what I was told
yesterday."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan disappointed with Reds reverse
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan felt a poor second half display cost his side at Liverpool on
Saturday
31.01.2015

Kevin Nolan was disappointed to leave his native Merseyside empty-handed
after second half goals from Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge gave
Liverpool a 2-0 victory over the Hammers on Saturday. It extended West Ham
United's winless run at Anfield, which stretches back in September 1963, and
sent Brendan Rodgers' side above the Hammers in the table. Nolan felt his
team were doing well enough at the break, only for a disappointing start to
the second period to prove their undoing. He explained: "In the first half I
thought we contained them well and had our fair share of the game, but in
the second half we came out and didn't really get going.
"Once they got the goal, it was a massive body blow, and we didn't really
react. They played the game out and we're very disappointed but it's one
we've got to put to bed. "We'll look at it early on next week and then try
to put it right at home."

The Hammers had injury problems at the back, with Carl Jenkinson and James
Tomkins missing the trip, then both James Collins and Winston Reid limping
off with hamstring injuries. Up front, Andy Carroll was also forced off with
a knee problem. Nolan admitted those were all big blows, but says his team
need to get over it quickly. He continued: "There's been a lot of chopping
and changing going on over the last few weeks from the Christmas time and
you will pick up injuries. "You have to deal with that, but when you get
three centre halves out in a week it's tough. Hopefully two of them will be
ok for Man United."

Saturday's loss was West Ham's first of 2015, so Nolan has belief that they
can soon return to winning ways and maintain their push towards the head of
the table. He added: "We had a fantastic first half of the season and the
second half has been tough up until now. We've gone to Liverpool and they've
just gone above us after us leading them for so long. "We've got to bounce
back and we have the ability to. We have a lot of lads coming back in the
next month or so - the squad is thin at the moment but once we get those
numbers back we can kick on again."

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s go goal crazy
WHUFC.com
West Ham United won 5-0 at Arsenal at the Barclays U18 Premier League on
Saturday
31.01.2015

Two goals from England U17 striker Jahmal Hector-Ingram helped West Ham
United to an impressive 5-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory at Arsenal.
After the young international set the Hammers on their way, centre-half
Manny Onariase rose highest to head home Matt Carter's corner and put the
Hammers 2-0 ahead after just 15 minutes, before Hector-Ingram grabbed his
second and West Ham's third before the break. With the result seemingly
already in the bag, the Hammers refused to let their north London opposition
into the fixture and added a fourth through Jordan Brown's strike, with the
game then put to bed when Vashon Neufville fired in his first goal of the
season to end a five-star performance from the visitors. The Hammers were
again coached by Mark Phillips, who made four changes to the starting XI
that beat Brighton & Hove Albion at Little Heath a week earlier. Noha
Sylvestre, Kieran Bailey, Jake Eggleton and Anthony Scully were replaced by
Alex Pike, Neufville, Grady Diangana and Brown (pictured), who all missed
out against Brighton due to Development Squad commitments. It took the
visitors just seven minutes to open the scoring against Arsenal when
midfielder Joe Powell broke down the left with speed and put an early cross
into the danger area, which was finished well by Hector-Ingram for his third
goal of the season.
On 15 minutes, the Hammers doubled their lead when Onariase timed his run
perfectly to meet Carter's corner with a bullet header that gave Arsenal
keeper Hugo Keto no chance of saving. From that position onwards, West Ham
controlled the remainder of the half and even managed to add a third before
the break when Hector-Ingram used his strength to hold off a defender and
chip the ball over Keto for his second goal of the game.

After the break, Arsenal stepped up their performance level in an attempt to
try and get back into the game. However, the young talent on show for the
Hammers kept the Gunners quiet for the remainder of the game. West Ham added
their fourth when Brown buried the ball into the back of the net from Jerry
Amoo's cutback, before Neufville fired in from 18 yards to extend the
Hammers lead to 5-0. Phillips was delighted with the convincing win over
Arsenal and revealed that a change in formation perhaps shocked the Hammers'
opponents. "It's a fantastic result for us as there aren't many teams that
go away to Arsenal at any level and get a result like we did," said
Phillips. "I changed the formation a little as I thought Arsenal would be
expecting us to match them with three in the middle of the pitch but we
switched to 4-4-2 and I think we caught them out. "Overall, I'm very happy
with the performance and can't really pick anyone out that didn't put in a
good performance. "We have Fulham at home next week and we go into that off
the back of two victories so we will prepare as usual for that game and look
forward to hopefully getting another result next weekend."

Also on Saturday, 16-year-old defender Reece Oxford was an unused substitute
for Sam Allardyce's first team at Liverpool. After coaching him regularly
over the past few years, a proud Phillips admitted that experiences like
this will really aid Oxford's development over the next few years. "I think
I know Reece just as much as anyone else at this Club after coaching him
from as young as U13s and I think that a player of his ability and character
deserves opportunities like this," confirmed Phillips. "It gives him a
chance to get involved with the first-team squad and see how they go about
their business on a match day. "I'm pleased that Sam Allardyce has given
Reece this opportunity and I know that as a very level-headed person, it
will help bring the best out of him in the future."

The Hammers' next Barclays U18 Premier League South fixture is at home to
Fulham on Saturday 7 February, with kick off at 11am. Parking and admission
are both free at Little Heath.

U18s: Howes, Pike, Onariase, Akinola, Neufville, Carter, Diangana (Bailey),
Powell (Borg), Amoo, Brown (Scully), Hector-Ingram
Subs not used: Bogard, Sheriff

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool 2 West Ham 0
31 January 2015
Last updated at 17:31
By Neil Johnston
BBC Sport

Daniel Sturridge scored on his comeback from injury as Liverpool made it
five wins in six Premier League games with victory over West Ham United.
Raheem Sterling struck for the eighth time this season after latching on to
Philippe Coutinho's clever pass. Substitute Sturridge, out for five months,
doubled the lead 12 minutes after coming on with a low drive following
another Coutinho assist. West Ham rarely threatened, Andy Carroll going
closest with a header. Sturridge had not played since suffering a thigh
injury while on England duty in September. Since then he has injured his
calf and thigh again. But the 25-year-old, making his first appearance in a
Reds shirt since 31 August, sealed a thoroughly deserved victory. The result
lifts Brendan Rodgers' side one place up the table to seventh on 38 points,
four behind fourth-placed Southampton. Liverpool are hitting momentum at a
crucial stage of the campaign, and they head into the Merseyside derby at
Everton on 7 February having taken 17 points from a possible 21. In contrast
West Ham have now won once in their last six top-flight outings. Sam
Allardyce's side created few serious chances but their stubborn defence
frustrated the hosts until Sterling made the breakthrough after the
interval. Jordan Henderson and Lucas Leiva spurned good chances, while
Coutinho was denied by a fine save from Adrian after Sterling's clever
back-heel. There was controversy at the end of the first-half when Sterling
went down inside the area following a challenge by Joey O'Brien. But while
Liverpool fans screamed for a penalty, the ball fell invitingly for Lazar
Markovic who fired wastefully wide. The hosts went ahead six minutes into
the second-half as Sterling produced a composed low finish after a
delightful back-heel by Coutinho. Sturridge received a rapturous reception
when he was introduced in the 68th minute. Twelve minutes later he was
celebrating his second goal of the campaign, a trademark low finish
following Coutinho's pass. West Ham had their moments.
Carroll, who was substituted, forced Simon Mignolet into a save with a
close-range header, while Enner Valencia also tested the Liverpool keeper
from distance. But this was a fine response from Liverpool after their
Capital One Cup semi-final defeat by Chelsea in midweek.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers: "The team stood up to the aerial duels
very well, pressed the game well and they got their rewards for that. "On
the back of 120 minutes in midweek, we knew today was going to be a tough
game. West Ham have been excellent this season, scored goals throughout the
season and been very tough to play against. "But after the first 15-20
minutes, when we had to compete and battle physically, the players earned
the right to play. Some of their football today was outstanding."

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce: "I thought we were more than comfortable in
the first half without being as good as we know we can be.
"We've had three players come off injured. We didn't create much. But I
hoped with the number of set-plays we were getting and balls behind the
Liverpool defence, particularly in the first half, we might have got a
little bit more on target."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho: Sam Allardyce advised not to play Senegal striker
BBC.co.uk

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says he has been advised not to play Diafra
Sakho until a row with Senegal is resolved. Senegal are reported to have
complained to Fifa after striker Sakho, 25, missed the Africa Cup of
Nations with a back injury, but then played for his club.
Fifa rules say a player cannot play for a club if he is meant to be on
international duty. Allardyce said: "It is not conducive for us to be
putting him on the field until it is resolved, sadly."

Sakho played and scored in last Sunday's 1-0 FA Cup win over Bristol City
but was not part of the squad for Saturday's 2-0 Premier League defeat at
Liverpool. Allardyce said: "We have covered all the rules and regulations
but at this moment in time it is sensible to do the right thing and not get
involved any more - that is what I was told yesterday. "If you speak to the
lad you would know how angry and disappointed he is at being denied the
opportunity to play football when it is not our fault."

Senegal boss Alain Giresse, who was told Sakho had withdrawn as he could not
fly because of a back injury, claimed West Ham had "set a dangerous
precedent" by playing him. With Senegal eliminated, Allardyce hoped Sakho's
countryman Cheikhou Kouyate would be on the bench for West Ham at Anfield.
But he said the 25-year-old midfielder told the club he was injured after
they went to "great lengths" to get him back to England.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Fletcher: Man Utd player's West Ham move 'broke down'
BBC.co.uk

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says a move to sign Manchester United midfielder
Darren Fletcher has broken down. Scotland international Fletcher, who turns
31 on Sunday, was in talks with the Hammers about moving to Upton Park after
being granted a free transfer. "Fletcher broke down on negotiations this
morning," said Allardyce after Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool. Red
Devils boss Louis van Gaal thought Fletcher would leave but claimed West Ham
only wanted the Scot on loan. He added: "That was not the agreement."
Fletcher has made 342 appearances for Manchester United but has started only
five times under Van Gaal. The Dutchman said: "He is my third captain so it
is not a problem for me. "Manchester United just want to help him play more.
For him now that is a big pity."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho sidelined by FIFA fears, confirms Allardyce
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 31st January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce has confirmed that Diafra Sakho was prevented from featuring
for West Ham at Liverpool today over fears of a FIFA backlash.
Allardyce, speaking after West Ham's 2-0 defeat at Anfield earlier this
afternoon confirmed KUMB's earlier story in which we revealed that the
potential threat of a FIFA sanction led to the decision to drop Sakho from
today's match day squad. "Sakho was not in our team because of the situation
we are in with FIFA," he said during his post-match press conference. "While
it's happening, it's not conducive to pick him. We'll look at that as
quickly as possible. "If you speak to the lad, he's just concerned about
being denied the opportunity to play football. But it's the rules and
regulations. It's sensible to do the right thing until it's resolved. It was
a recommendation that we shouldn't pick him."

Sakho was one of four first team players to miss today's defeat, along with
James Tomkins, Cheik Kouyate and Carl Jenkinson (all injured). West Ham
ended the game with only ten men after losing James Collins, Andy Carroll
and Winston Reid to various injuries during the match. Senegal registered a
complaint with FIFA after Sakho appeared as a second half substitute at
Ashton Gate last weekend. West Ham beat Bristol City courtesy of the
striker's late winner. 48 hours after West Ham beat Bristol City, Senegal
were sent tumbling out of the African Nations Cup by virtue of their 2-0
defeat to Algeria.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce facing 'defensive crisis' at West Ham after Liverpool defeat
Last Updated: 31/01/15 6:52pm
SSN

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce says he is facing a defensive crisis after
losing two players during the defeat at Liverpool. James Collins struggled
through a hamstring problem but eventually had to come off, while Winston
Reid limped off in the latter stages as the Hammers lost 2-0 at Anfield.
With James Tomkins already injured, Allardyce is struggling for choice in
defence and, with a key Premier League clash against Manchester United to
come next week, the Hammers boss is praying that Collins and Reid won't be
out for two long.
"It's more than an issue, it's a crisis for us now," he said. "Him and Reidy
going down has left us a massive hole and I'm not sure how long they're
going to be. "We've got to try and face the crisis as best we can. It will
be difficult, but it's all hands on pumps for the medical staff to get the
lads back as quick as we can, particularly with next week just as important
for us, and the week after when the FA Cup arrives."

Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge scored as Liverpool took the points on
Saturday afternoon as West Ham's bright start faded away into defeat. While
admitting his side didn't play their best on Merseyside, Allardyce couldn't
help but wonder if it would have been different if he had fewer injuries. "I
think in the end, due to our injury problems, it's cost us anything we might
have got here today," he added. "I don't think Liverpool were outstanding at
all – certainly in the first half we could see that. What we didn't do was
play as well as we could. "But [Collins] came off at half time saying he's
got a hamstring [injury], and of course he wanted to try and play on and
that caused us problems, because when you've got a bit of an injury marking
Sterling is not easy, so our game got stretched and in the end we had to try
and change him. "By that time we're 1-0 down and Reidy comes off as well.
Andy Carroll hurt himself, so that's three on top of the seven we had
[injured] before we played and that's too much for us to cope with today
when you're playing somewhere like Anfield. "It's a great shame for us
today. As hard as we tried the forces went against us in terms of injuries
particularly. On another day with players staying fit, other players getting
on the pitch who we missed today's game, I think we'd have made a better
game of it."

Despite having a threadbare defence, the Hammers boss thinks it is very
unlikely the club will look to bring in cover at centre-back ahead of
Monday's transfer deadline. Allardyce added: "Probably not. Not in the
central defensive area because you end up pulling somebody from abroad who
probably hasn't played for his club, and because he hasn't played for his
club would not be up to speed coming in and playing at this level."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Daniel Sturridge scores on return as Liverpool beat West Ham 2-0
By Tom McKeown. Last Updated: 31/01/15 6:55pm
SSN

Daniel Sturridge scored on his return as Liverpool registered a 2-0 win over
West Ham to leapfrog their opponents in the table. Raheem Sterling fired low
past Hammers goalkeeper Adrian to put the hosts in front shortly after the
break, before Sturridge's powerful finish doubled the lead 10 minutes into
his return from the bench. Philippe Coutinho was earlier denied by Adrian
while Lazar Markovic fired a golden opportunity wide, moments after the
hosts felt they should have had a penalty for a foul on Sterling by Joey
O'Brien. But it would not matter in the end as the two England
internationals netted in the second half, and Brendan Rodgers' men move
above the Hammers into seventh in the Premier League. It was an open affair
right from the off, with Andy Carroll causing plenty of problems in the air.
The striker caught Emre Can with a flailing arm early on and that seemed to
rattle the Liverpool man for the rest of the half.

The hosts had the first real chance, though, as the lively Sterling cut in
from the flank and laid off for Adam Lallana. The midfielder was quickly
closed down but it fell for Markovic, who had one shot blocked before firing
wide. Sterling and Coutinho were the main threats for the hosts, and they
nearly set up an opening goal when they played a superb one-two as the
former backheeled it beyond the defence, but the Brazilian's tame effort was
easily saved at the near post by Adrian. The hosts then felt they should
have had a penalty right on half time as Sterling spun round O'Brien only to
go down under the defender's challenge. Nothing was given, but Liverpool
almost took the lead immediately as Markovic cut out Stewart Downing's loose
pass, only to fire wide of the target with the goal at his mercy.

Cool finish

The hosts finally broke the deadlock shortly after half-time, though.
Alberto Moreno's ball was chested down by Sterling, the ball deflected off
Winston Reid into the path of Coutinho, who chipped a lovely ball beyond the
defence, and Sterling slotted it calmly under Adrian with a cool first-time
finish.

The visitors hardly created anything, but Enner Valencia spurned a chance as
he drilled a low shot straight at Simon Mignolet from 18 yards, before
Coutinho showed some lovely footwork at the other end, working some space on
the edge of the box and firing low at Adrian.
The biggest cheer of the afternoon came with just over 20 minutes remaining,
as Sturridge was finally re-introduced to first-team action after five
months out when he replaced Markovic. It only took 10 minutes for Sturridge
to score on his return. Coutinho raced into the West Ham half and played a
lovely ball into the striker, who took a superb touch before drilling a low
shot in at the near post to cap an excellent afternoon for Liverpool.

Soccer Saturday reaction - Matt Le Tissier

"It was pretty comfortable, it really was. West Ham certainly weren't at
their best today. Liverpool were probably not as good as they were in
midweek but it was still plenty enough to beat this West Ham side, who
didn't really threaten them too much. I don't remember Mignolet having to
make too many saves. "It was great for the Liverpool fans to see Daniel
Sturridge to come back – that was the highlight of the day for everyone. He
got himself a little bit of space in the box, made a lovely first touch, got
it on to his right foot and it was a brilliant finish in at the near post. I
think that was the big plus point of the day, to see him, after such a long
time, come back and give himself a chance and get a goal within 10 minutes
of coming on."

Player Ratings

Liverpool: Mignolet (6), Can (5), Skrtel (6), Sakho (7), Henderson (7),
Lucas (6), Moreno (7), Markovic (6), Lallana (7), Coutinho (8), Sterling
(9).

Used subs: Sturridge (8), Ibe (7).

West Ham: Adrian (7), O'Brien (6), Collins (7), Reid (6), Cresswell (6),
Song (7), Amalfitano (5), Nolan (5), Downing (6), Carroll (6), Valencia (6).

Used subs: Cole (6), Noble (6), Demel (6).

Man of the match: Raheem Sterling

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Fletcher's proposed move to West Ham from Manchester United breaks
down
Last Updated: 31/01/15 6:58pm
SSN

Manchester United's Darren Fletcher move to West Ham seems over with both
managers saying negotiations have broken down. Louis van Gaal confirmed on
Friday that 30-year-old was having talks with the Hammers but the United
boss told Sky Sports News HQ after Saturday's 3-1 win against Leicester: "I
don't know what's happening because I thought Darren was signing. "But at
the end, they looked for a loan and that wasn't the agreement so I can't
(see it happening)." He later added: "When you allow your player to go to
London for the medical, there is no problem. At the end there is no
agreement, it is strange. "I don't know what is happening there but the
agreement is different there. On Saturday it is off." Allardyce revealed
after the 2-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield that the move will not go
ahead.
Sam Allardyce believes that a growing injury list cost his side a result
against Liverpool and described his centre-back selection as a 'crisis'
On the chances of reviving a Fletcher deal, Allardyce told SSN HQ: "It
doesn't look like it. It looks like it's broken down in negotiations." West
Ham were head of the queue to sign Fletcher with Spanish side Valencia and
West Brom also interested in signing the Scottish midfielder before the
transfer window closes. Fletcher was named United vice-captain at the start
of the season but has been unable to break into Van Gaal's first team this
season. The United boss hopes he can give the midfielder more playing time
in the rest of the season. "He is my third captain so it is not a problem
for me (if he comes back)," Van Gaal added. "Manchester United just want to
help him play more. For him now that is a big pity. "We want to help
Fletcher. That is my only concern. I am very happy he is coming back." The
Scot has made just 12 appearances for United this season, with the most
recent being in the 2-0 win at Yeovil Town in the FA Cup first round.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool plot transfer swoop on West Ham for Winston Reid as summer free
agency looms
22:30, 31 January 2015 By Steve Stammers
Reds will offer £6.5m for defender who could walk for nothing at the end of
the season - and Hammers will join Vedran Corluka chase if they do sell
The Mirror

Liverpool are set to make a £6.5million bid for West Ham's Winston Reid. New
Zealand international centre-back Reid, 26, is out of contract at the end of
the season. He rejected a new four-year deal to stay at Upton Park and now
Liverpool will test the Hammers' resolve to hang on to him. West Ham are
likely to insist on a fee of £6-£7m, but Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers can
meet that demand.
If Reid goes, the Hammers will enter the race for Croatian defender Vedran
Corluka. The former Tottenham defender is now at Spartak Moscow and will
this week go to Spain for a warm-weather training camp with the Russian
team. Corluka, 28, is available at £4.5m but West Ham will face stiff
competition from three Premier League rivals. West Brom boss Tony Pulis is
anxious to bolster his defence in a bid to steer his new club away from the
relegation zone. Everton are also keen, and under-pressure Hull manager
Steve Bruce is also monitoring the situation.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Poor selections …poor tactics – Sam's to blame
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Match verdict
Liverpool 2 Irons 0

Let's be 100 per cent honest about today's performance – it was awful –
simply awful. This is no time to mince words – the manager got it horribly
wrong in key areas. He started without Mark Noble, stuck the season's most
effective playmaker within the diamond – Stewart Downing – on the left and
decided to play Joey O'Brien for the injured Carl Jenkinson. There was no
room for Chiek Kouyate who we were told almost on kick off had come back
from the African Nations Cup injured although there had been no mention of
this earlier in the week and Diafra Sakho was nowhere to be seen with no
explanation as to why.

And after a lively first first 10 minutes it became crystal clear that the
game plan was to defend deep and come away from Anfield with a draw if
possible. Sound familiar? At no time did we trouble the scousers, Andy
Carroll went off injured along with James Collins and Winston Reid. We
finished with O'Brien in the middle of defence, Demel down the right and
Cole playing one up – Sound horribly familiar?

There was more bad news for Reid too before his departure because he was
made to look a mug by first goalscorer Raheem Sterling (51 mins) on several
occasions showing just why he will never be a top four player. Not good
enough!

Daniel Sturridge appeared for the first time in many moons to collect the
second and you just knew it would be against us – a near post thump after 80
mins with which Adrian had no chance.

Liverpool were better in every area of the pitch but we were never helped by
the selection, tactics and general approach of a manager who to put it in
the words of a famous song is beginning to look like a rebel without a clue!

With players hobbling off through injury these are worrying times as we
start to descend towards our usual level – what's even more worrying
perhaps is that if they keep players out for a couple of games it presents
a handy excuse to the boss for any sub-standard performance. I'm not wearing
it. This match was lost through seriously bad mistakes in selection and
tactics before a ball was kicked or anyone took a knock. We all believed we
had a real chance of winning at Anfield today for the first time in 53 years
– Sam Allardyce blew it!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fletcher deal "The sums didn't add up"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Ham have denied they attempted to change the failed deal which would
have seen the Manchester United midfielder arrive at Upton Park. Old
Trafford boss Louis van Gaal had claimed that was the case but insiders at
the irons have claimned it was the other way around.
It has emerged that there were no medical problems with the player but that
the more the two sides talked the less likely a deal became.
ClaretandHugh was told: "Suddenly various add ons started to appear in
agent's fees and such like and personal terms never really got settled. "In
the end it became clear the sums weren't adding up and it became obvious it
was best to call time on the deal."
However, there's an air of relief around the club as the negotiations were
being conducted against a backdrop if the player's health problems. Another
source explained: "That was in the minds of a lot of people particularly as
Fletcher's side wanted a straight three and half years – it was always a
worry."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sakho back for Manchester United clash!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Diafra Sakho will return for next Sunday's match against Manchester United
having served out FIFA's 'five day rule.' ClaretandHugh learned this evening
the Senegal striker missed today's game at Liverpool as Fifa rules insist
that players cannot appear for their clubs until five days has passed
following their nation's elimination from a major tournament. Despite the
fact that the player was injured and unavailable to Senegal such has been
the fuss kicked up by Senegal's Federation, the Irons board decided to keep
the player out of the action today and avoid any further problems. Sam
Allardyce failed to mention that only the one game would be involved when
issuing a statement on the matter in which he said: "With Sakho it's down to
the situation we are in with FIFA. "While it is happening it is not
conducive to be putting him on the field until it is settled, sadly."

But in fact it is settled and a source said tonight: "He's now available for
Manchester United and we will just have to keep everything crossed that the
problems at central defence ease in the week."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
How the Irons rated
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Adrian: Can't be blamed for the goals and made a couple of top stops 7
O'Brien: Gives us nothing – part of our history 4
Collins: Sturdy performance before hobbling off. Battled to stay on. No
complaints 6
Reid: Was made to look a mug by Sterling on occasions but battled 5
Cresswell: Not the high quality display we're used to. Caught out a couple
of times 6
Song: Nothing like as mobile in possession as when he arrived, struggled 5
Downing: Played out of position – never a danger 5
Amalfitano: Sparky at times – looked dangerous before being inexplicably
subbed 6
Valencia: Had he got Chelsea on his mind? Annonymous 5
Nolan: Tip of the diamond – Nolan? Oh please! Nothing to offer 4
Carroll: Nothing like the high energy player we've seen of late 5
Subs: Noble 5, Demel 5 Cole 4

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Woe is Sam – it's the injuries yer know!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh

My God it diodn't take long for the "woe is me I have injuries and it's a
crisis " Allardyce head to go on – about 10 minutes after the match actually
In my match report I wrote: "With players hobbling off through injury these
are worrying times as we start to descend towards our usual level – what's
even more worrying perhaps is that if they keep players out for a couple of
games it presents a handy excuse to the boss for any sub-standard
performance."

It actually took a couple of minutes rather than games. For as he stood
looking folorn and lost in front of the nation he whined: "Ginge had to come
off with a hamstring, then we lost Reidy. It's not a problem it's a crisis."

Yeah Yeah Yeah as Liverpool legends The Beatles sung when we last won in
their home city back in 1963! Carroll of course had hobbled off allowing Sam
the opportunity to bleat: "That's three on top of the four we left behind"
which of course would include Kouyate and Sakho who is now being kept in
cotton wool as the Senegal complaint goes to FIFA. He claimed the "medical
staff will have all hands to the pumps this week" as Manchester United
await but as I wrote earlier I'm not wearing this injury stuff being
presented as as an excuse. We were beaten today before a ball was kicked and
to say anything different would be a lie! Stand up and be a man Sam. You
have Koutaye who can do a shift at the back and as we are now more or less
safe what about blooding Reece Oxford? Big people see times of trial as
times of opportunity so please stop moaning and groaning and show some
balls!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LVG: "West Ham changed Fletcher deal"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 31, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

The news that Darren Fletcher's move to West Ham has broken down didn't come
as a huge surprise this evening. For this morning as rumours started to
spread that the player had failed a medical, a source refused to make any
sort of comment to ClaretandHugh on the situation declaring: "I just can't
comment on that!" That is usually a pretty good indication that all is not
as it should be so this evening's news was no shock Sam Allardyce – at the
end of a seriously depressing post-Liverpool press conference – admitted;
"It looks like that one has gone away. It's broken down on negotiations."
Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal revealed that he believed West Ham may
have tried to change the terms of the deal. He said: "I thought Darren was
going to sign a contract but at the end they looked for a loan and that was
not the agreement. I'm only listening to what is said by West Ham United.
Later he added: "I don't know what is happening. It was different on Friday
but now it's changed."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com



---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com

Daily WHUFC News - 31st January 2015

Preview - Liverpool
WHUFc.com
Everything you need to know about Saturday's game with Liverpool
30.01.2015

LIVERPOOL v WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
ANFIELD
SATURDAY 31 JANUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 3PM
REFEREE: ANDRE MARRINER

In brief
West Ham United travel to Merseyside looking for their second win of the
season over last year's runners up, having beaten the Reds in September
thanks to goals from Winston Reid, Diafra Sakho and Morgan Amalfitano.The
Hammers go into the match on the back of a six game unbeaten run, with two
consecutive clean sheets to their name. Sam Allardyce's men are currently
seventh in the Barclays Premier League with 36 points from 22 games.

Opponents Liverpool, on the other hand, go into the game without a win in
three matches, most recently losing to Chelsea after extra time in the
League Cup semi final second leg. Having said that, Brendan Rodgers' men
have been improving throughout the season as their new signings are
beginning to settle in. Prior to the defeat at Stamford Bridge, the Reds
were unbeaten in ten games. The last time the Hammers won at Anfield in
September 1963, the Beatles' 'She Loves You' was number one in the charts.

Who are they?
Formed in 1892, Liverpool are one of English football's most-successful
clubs. Only Manchester United hold more league titles than the Reds' total
of 18, while only Real Madrid and AC Milan have won the UEFA Champions
League or European Cup more often than their total of five.
Runners-up last term as they chased their first English title in 25 years,
the glory days appear to be returning to Anfield under Rodgers. They are
also seven-time FA Cup winners, eight-time League Cup winners and three-time
UEFA Cup champions.
Team news
West Ham United
Big Sam has a few defensive issues to ponder as Carl Jenkinson, James
Collins and James Tomkins all face late fitness tests. Guy Demel is
available and may be called upon.
Cheikhou Kouyate has returned from international duty following Senegal's
elimination from the African Cup of Nations, and is available to play.
Liverpool
The Reds are boosted by the possible return of Daniel Sturridge after a
lengthy layoff due to a hip injury.
Jon Flanagan (knee) and Brad Jones (hip) are out, while Mamadou Sakho faces
a race against time to recover from a back injury.
Referee
The man in the middle for Saturday afternoon's game will be Andre Marriner.
The 43-year-old referee is yet to officiate a West Ham game this season. The
Birmingham based official has taken charge of one Liverpool game - a 1-0
defeat away at Newcastle United in November.

One to watch
West Ham United

All eyes will be on West Ham's No9 Andy Carroll as he returns to Anfield
having left the Reds to join the Hammers in 2012. The England international
has been in inspired form since coming back from injury and would dearly
love to add to five league goals this season against his former employers.

Liverpool
Speculation is growing that England international Daniel Sturridge is close
to a return to the first team. The 25-year-old striker enjoyed a terrific
season last term, scoring 28 goals in all competitions and the Birmingham
born forward looked to have started the 2014/15 season where he left off,
scoring against Southampton before a hip injury sustained on international
duty has kept him out of action since early September.

Tickets
Tickets for Saturday's have SOLD OUT.
Travel
For all information regarding travel to and from Liverpool please click
here.

Weather
The forecast for Saturday is predicted to be a cloudy, cold but dry day with
temperatures around 5C (41F).
Please note that weather warnings have been issued in the North West of the
country. To keep up with all the travel information, see the Met Office
website here.

Last meeting
Liverpool 4-1 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
7 December 2013
Title-chasing Liverpool recorded an impressive win over the Hammers with a
4-1 win at Anfield. The match was initially a tight affair with Guy Demel's
own goal breaking the deadlock three minutes before half time.
The Reds doubled their lead shortly after the restart through Mamadou Sakho
before Martin Skrtel's own goal gave the Hammers a lifeline.
The enigmatic Luis Suarez looked to seal the win when he scored in the 81st
minute, with Kevin Nolan picking up a second yellow card a minute later.
Despite the Hammers best efforts, Suarez wrapped up the victory with his
second goal of the proceedings, leaving the Hammers in 17th position.
Liverpool: Mignolet; Johnson, Skrtel, Sakho, Flanagan (Kelly 79); Coutinho,
Gerrard (Lucas 56), Henderson, Allen; Sterling (Moses 72), Suarez
Subs: Jones, Aspas, Alberto, Cissokho

West Ham United: Jaaskelainen; McCartney, Tomkins (O'Brien 56), Collins,
Demel; Nolan, Noble, Jarvis (Taylor 78); Diame, Downing (J Cole 45)
Subs: Adrian, Collison, Diarra, C Cole

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Amoo eyeing win over Gunners
WHUFC.com
Having scored the winner against Brighton, Jerry Amoo wants to beat Arsenal
30.01.2015

West Ham United U18 winger Jerry Amoo is relishing the Hammers' game with
Arsenal this Saturday as they look to continue their good form after beating
Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 last weekend. In a tight game, the Hammers took
the lead through Jahmal Hector-Ingram as he headed Anthony Scully's cross
home before the Seagulls equalised when Connor Tighe levelled from the
penalty spot. Shortly after the break, Amoo scored to be what proved to be
the winner after he converted Joe Powell's cross. Speaking ahead of the game
with the Gunners, the 17-year-old winger said: "Arsenal is a tough game,
they play good football but they also work hard off the ball. "The win
against Brighton last week was very important. They play good football too,
probably not as good as Arsenal but they are a tough team to beat. I thought
we moved the ball well and we worked hard. "To score the winner was a good
feeling. Joe Powell crossed it, as I was running into the box I slowed down
a bit but I heard Steve Potts on the side lines say 'get in the box'. So I
got in, and luckily the keeper parried it toward me and I just put it in."

The Hammers currently sit in sixth position in the U18 Premier League South
table, with 25 points from 17 games. With just five games of the league left
before the Play-Offs, Amoo is hoping last Saturday's win will be the start
of a winning run of games. "We started off the season quite well, going
unbeaten in the first eight games, but then we had a tough run of games. We
lost a bit of momentum, hopefully the win last week will be the start of a
good run and we'll hopefully continue that against Arsenal."

"As for me personally, I hope I carry on playing well, scoring and assisting
more goals. Hopefully I'll push on into the U21s and earn a professional
contract." The U18s play Arsenal away on Saturday with kick off at 11am.
Their next home game is against Fulham on Saturday 7 February at Little
Heath, kick off 11am.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hendrie to join Hammers
WHUFC.com
Scotland U21 international left-back Stephen Hendrie will join West Ham
United on 1 July
30.01.2015

Scotland U21 international left-back Stephen Hendrie will join West Ham
United in the summer after signing a pre-contract agreement with the Club.
The 20-year-old will move to the Hammers on 1 July from Scottish Premiership
side Hamilton Academical, where he has been a first-team regular for the
past four seasons, totalling 110 appearances. From this summer, the defender
will continue his development with West Ham and he cannot wait to get down
to work in east London. "I'm absolutely buzzing," Hendrie confirmed. "The
last few days have been busy, but now that I'm down here and I've signed, I
cannot wait to start in the summer. "I'm thrilled to bits. I can't believe
that it's happened. West Ham is such a massive club with a massive fan base
and I just cannot wait to get started. I'm looking forward to it.
"I think the Premier League's the best league in the world and you want to
play at the highest level you possibly can. Since I was a kid I always
wanted to play in the Premier League and I've got a fantastic chance to do
that now." "I know that the atmosphere is electric at the Boleyn Ground. The
fans are brilliant and we've moving to a bigger stadium and it'll be even
better, so I'm looking forward to that too."

After joining the South Lanarkshire club as a schoolboy, Hendrie made his
Hamilton debut at the age of 16 in a Scottish League Cup win at Queens Park
in July 2011. Last season, he helped the Accies gain promotion back to the
Scottish Premiership before making his Scotland U21 debut in September 2014.
The young defender is the latest Hamilton youth product to move south of the
border in recent seasons, following the likes of Everton midfielder James
McCarthy and Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur. After completing the
current season with Hamliton, Hendrie plans to catch the eye in a Claret and
Blue shirt from the start of next term. Stephen Hendrie
"I'm a full-back and I like to get forward," he explained. "Obviously the
defensive duties come first, but I like to bomb up and down the wings and
get crosses in. "When the summer comes around I'll be working as hard as I
can and see what happens. Every pre-season is crucial but having signed for
West Ham it's going to be even more so. It's unbelievable. I just need to
get as fit as I can and hopefully play some games. It's a good challenge, a
new challenge and I'm just buzzing to get started."

Hendrie follows a long line of Scottish players to join the Hammers dating
back to the Club's formative years as Thames Ironworks FC, when players were
drawn from the large number of Scottish shipbuilders working there. In more
recent years, the likes of Ray Stewart, Frank McAvennie and Christian Dailly
have all represented West Ham with honour, and the new boy is hoping to make
a similarly positive impression. "They're big names and everybody knows West
Ham up there because of those boys," he confirmed. "They did extremely well
here and everybody knows West Ham because of them and because of how big a
club they are. The fan base is brilliant and so is everything else that goes
with it."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll - 'It's just another game'
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll's will be making his first return to Anfield as a West Ham
United player on Saturday
30.01.2015

Andy Carroll might be making his first return to Anfield as a West Ham
United player on Saturday - but he insists it will not stand out as an
occasion for him. It is two-and-a-half years since the No9 first joined the
Hammers on loan from Liverpool, but the conditions of his loan in his first
season and injury last term prevented him from being involved at his former
home. Now he heads to Merseyside in terrific form having netted five goals
in his last eight Barclays Premier League games and just wants to continue
that streak, no matter the opposition. "Going back to Anfield has not been
on my mind really," he insisted. "To be honest it's just another game. I
know it's a team I played for before but for me it's just a game for us that
we need to go and win. "I haven't been able to play there for the last
couple of years, so it'll be nice to go back and see the people that I spent
time with, but as a game it's just another one. "I don't feel like I have
anything to prove. I enjoyed my spell there - it was a short one, but I
enjoyed it. It didn't work out and now I'm playing against them."

Carroll is playing arguably the best football of his West Ham career to date
at present, scoring goals of all types. He notched two trademark headers
against Swansea at home, a fine individual strike against the same
opposition at the Liberty Stadium and further finishes off the ground
against Leicester and Hull - evidence of the rounded ability of his game.
"I'm feeling great at the minute," he added. "I always knew that when I was
100 per cent fit that I'd score goals, put myself about in training and that
would show in games. That's what's happened. "There's been a few different
goals since I've been back. The Swansea one, some people didn't expect, but
I've got a bit of that when I get the chance! "That goal has to be up there
as one of my best. It was a great srike and I was well happy with it. "A lot
of people think that all strikers are about is scoring goals, but for me I
feel like an all-round striker where I can create chances just as much as
scoring when they're created for me. "Diafra is obviously a great player and
that's why he's scored the goals that he has. Last week he gets two chances,
he hits the crossbar and scores the other. That just proves how good a
striker he is.
"The depth in the squad is fantastic and with Enner and Carlton we have four
great strikers at the Club. Any of the lads can start or come off the bench
and score, as Diafra did last week."

The Hammers are without a win at Anfield since 1963, but Carroll believes
this is as good a chance as any for the Hammers to end that lengthy run.
"With the form we're in at the minute, this has to be our best chance of
winning there in a while," he explained. "Everyone is confident, all the
lads are raring to go and I don't see why we can't go up there and beat
them. "It's always tough when you play against players like Skrtel or Sakho.
It's physical and you get knocked about a bit and those are th e kind of
games I love because you feel the referee lets it play on a bit a little
more. "Skrtel is a tough defender, but he's a great lad and I'm looking
forward to playing against him."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing blogs about Liverpool, Steven Gerrard and England ahead of
Saturday's trip to Anfield
30.01.2015

Hello everyone,

I'm really looking forward to Saturday's game at Liverpool. We go to Anfield
off a good FA Cup result at Bristol City and we can go up there and win the
game, just as we did at home earlier in the season. Liverpool played their
Capital One Cup semi-final second leg in midweek, which went to extra-time,
so hopefully we can capitalise on any tiredness and win there for the first
time in 50-odd years.
It would certainly be a nice time to do it because we're a point above them
in the table and we can extend that if we get a good result.
We're confident. Whereas last season it was difficult for us up there and we
lost, it'll be different this time around, as we proved when we beat them at
home, scored three good goals and defended well. We deserve to be where we
are and we are above them on merit because we've been the better team so far
this season. Having played for Liverpool for a couple of seasons, I know
Anfield is a special stadium. On the big European nights and cup nights or
in the local derby matches, it's a fantastic place to play football. I think
Liverpool will target this as a game to win, so hopefully we can keep the
crowd quiet early on. They demand victories because that's the sort of club
it is and we've got to capitalise on any weaknesses. They played a tough
semi-final against Chelsea on Tuesday so maybe their confidence will be a
little bit low after that defeat and we can go there and get a win. This may
be the final time I get to play against Steven Gerrard. I don't know if
he'll start after playing 120 minutes on Tuesday, but we'll prepare for him
to start. We still think he is their best player. A lot of their play goes
through him and if he plays as the deep-lying midfield player, as he did at
our place and we did a job on him, then I guess we'll try to do the same
again. The manager told us he has always tried to do a man-marking job on
Steven because everything goes through him. If he doesn't play, it is a
massive, massive bonus for us. We have only lost three away matches all
season, at Manchester United, Everton and Chelsea, and when you look at
those matches only Chelsea deserved to beat us. We should have got a result
at Everton and at Manchester United we scored and had them down to ten men
and they were all over the place for the last half-an-hour. We have been
really good with our goal-scoring and defending away from home. We haven't
played so well of late, but we're getting results and that's the sign of a
good team. We'll be looking to put in a good performance and get the right
result on Saturday.
If you had said we would be seventh and still in the FA Cup at the end of
January, we'd have bitten your hands off. The manager has got to be pleased
and we as players are, but we knew deep down that if we kept everyone
available and had a bit of luck that we could perform at a high level. This
year it has come together and it's very pleasing. We've got a good squad and
we're feeling confident, so we'll go to Anfield and we hope to win. Looking
ahead, there is an international break at the end of March and I would love
to be in the England squad again - and I hope I won't be the only West Ham
player in there, either. With the way we've been playing, a lot of the lads
have done really well. Andy has come back and done really well and I'm sure
he'll be looking at the squad closely, as will the likes of Mark, Tonks,
Jenkinson and Cresswell. Roy Hodgson has watched a lot of our games, so
there are a lot of our lads in contention. Safe trip to all those heading up
to Anfield.

Come on you Irons!
Stewie

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool v West Ham
KO 15:00
30 January 2015
Last updated at 11:52
By Simon Brotherton

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Anfield Date: Saturday, 31 January

TEAM NEWS

Liverpool will be boosted by the return of Daniel Sturridge after almost
five months out with a thigh injury. Mamadou Sakho is a doubt with a back
problem sustained during the midweek League Cup defeat against Chelsea.
West Ham are hopeful that Carl Jenkinson, Alex Song and James Tomkins will
be available after minor injury concerns this week. Senegal's Cheikhou
Kouyate could feature after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations.

MATCH PREVIEW

It was a case of so near and yet so far for Liverpool this week following
their narrow defeat by Chelsea after extra time in the Capital One Cup
semi-final. They'll need to put it behind them quickly against West Ham, who
sit a point and one place above them in the table and survived a tricky FA
Cup tie away to Bristol City last week. Liverpool fans will look forward to
the prospect of welcoming back Daniel Sturridge with open arms after his
lengthy absence because of injury. It's almost five months since he last
played and it sounds as though we may see him at some point on Saturday. I
was very impressed by the way Liverpool played in the second leg of their
Capital One Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Tuesday, even though they
lost. They were excellent in the first leg too. "The only problem is that
they are still without a goalscorer - if they had one of those, they would
be going to Wembley for the final."

West Ham's tally of 36 points from 22 games is a far cry from last season's
struggles and constitutes their strongest campaign so far in the Premier
League. They travel to Liverpool after beating Hull and Bristol City without
conceding in their last two outings, hoping to turn the club's wretched
record at Anfield on its head. They're without a win there in the league for
over 50 years and have only ever won three times in 56 league visits. Rarely
will they have travelled with a better chance of a decent result than this
season, but Liverpool are unbeaten in six in the league and have not lost at
home since the Chelsea game in early November. As a side note, two of West
Ham's most prominent players head back to their former club this weekend.
Liverpool and West Ham both paid record transfer fees for Andy Carroll,
while Stewart Downing left Anfield for Upton Park a couple of years ago.
Liverpool's Glen Johnson started at West Ham, of course, and unusually for a
player with one league goal in just over two years has scored three in his
last half a dozen appearances against the Hammers.

MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
Liverpool are unbeaten in 41 top-flight home matches against West Ham since
a 2-1 defeat in September 1963 (W30, D11).
That remains West Ham's last win at Anfield in any division. They have only
won three of 56 league encounters at the stadium.
West Ham sit one point and one place above Liverpool in the league table.
This is the first time the Hammers have been above Liverpool after 22 games
in the Premier League.

Liverpool
Liverpool are unbeaten in their last six Premier League matches (W4, D2) and
have lost once in the last ten matches.
They are vying to win three successive matches, and keep three clean sheets
in a row, for the first time in the league this season.
Steven Gerrard is one short of his 700th Liverpool appearance in all
competitions. Only Ian Callaghan (857) and Jamie Carragher (737) have played
more matches for the club.
Fabio Borini scored his first league goal for Liverpool since April 2013 in
the 2-0 against Aston Villa.
Raheem Sterling has already equalled last season's tally of five Premier
League assists.

West Ham United
West Ham's tally of 36 points is their highest in the Premier League after
22 games.
However, they have not kept an away clean sheet in 16 league matches
spanning almost a year.
Sam Allardyce has never won a Premier League game at Anfield as manager in
11 attempts.
West Ham have scored a league-high 14 headed goals. Five of those have been
scored by Diafra Sakho, which is also the best record in the division.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stephen Hendrie: West Ham sign Hamilton full-back
BBC.co.uk

Hamilton Accies left-back Stephen Hendrie has signed a pre-contract
agreement to join West Ham in July. The Lanarkshire club say they have
reached a deal on compensation for the 20-year-old, who has made more than
100 appearances for the club. "I just cannot wait to get started," he told
the West Ham website. "I'm thrilled to bits. "Since I was a kid I always
wanted to play in the Premier League and I've got a fantastic chance to do
that now." Last week, Accies vice-chairman Ronnie MacDonald said the move
was off and was critical of West Ham's approach. "I couldn't care if I never
heard from them again," said MacDonald. However, the transfer was revived
with Hendrie travelling to London on Wednesday for talks with the English
Premier League club. "When the summer comes around I'll be working as hard
as I can and see what happens," added Hendrie. "Every pre-season is crucial
but having signed for West Ham it's going to be even more so. It's
unbelievable. I just need to get as fit as I can and hopefully play some
games. "It's a good challenge, a new challenge and I'm just buzzing to get
started."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Darren Fletcher: Man Utd player having West Ham medical
BBC.co.uk

Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher is undergoing a medical at
Premier League rivals West Ham as he moves closer to a move to Upton Park.
United boss Louis van Gaal had already revealed the Scottish international,
31, was in talks with the Hammers. "He is now in West Ham, so we have to
wait and see," said Van Gaal on Friday. "He is my third captain so he is an
important guy in the dressing room.
"I like him as a human being and a player, so we will miss him." Fletcher
has made only five starts under Van Gaal this season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kouyate returns after going AWOL
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 30th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Cheik Kouyate could yet make his return for West Ham at Liverpool this
weekend after being flown back to England in a private plane.
West Ham chartered the jet - in conjunction with Newcastle United and
another club - in order to bring Kouyate, the Mags' Papiss Cisse and four
fellow players back to Europe from the African Cup of Nations. The cost is
reported (Guardian) to be in the region of £65,000.
"We knew where he was, but had trouble finding him," admitted Allardyce. "I
think it was the usual lack of organisation to get people on planes, so we
had to sort it out! "We have two other clubs and stumped up for a private
jet to bring six players back. The chairmen were good enough to get together
and share the cost and get them home. "I've experienced it many times
before. When it is right in the middle of the season you want your players
back as quickly as you can. The regulation is that they must be back within
48 hours. "But players will try and sneak a couple of extra days, that is
what they normally do. I learnt that in about 2004 when El-Hadji Diouf and
Abdoulaye Faye got delayed in Paris, for some reason!"

Newcastle boss John Carver added: "The Senegal FA haven't been too helpful
and we're not happy about that. Hopefully Papiss will be back on Friday.
"We've been trying to get in touch with him and it hasn't been easy. But
I've spoken to his agent and left a message with Papiss. Lee Charnley
[Newcastle's managing director] has spoken to the Senegalese FA but they
haven't been very helpful." Senegal were eliminated from the AFCON on
Tuesday after losing 2-0 to Algeria in the deciding Group match. West Ham's
Kouyate played the whole 90 minutes.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Accies confirm Hendrie departure
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 30th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Hamilton Academical have confirmed the sale of young full-back Stephen
Hendrie to West Ham United.

The 20-year-old Scot has made the switch to West Ham after the two clubs
finally agreed a fee in the region of £1million, following days of
uncertainly after the original deal was cancelled by Hamilton.

A short statement on Academical's website read: "The Club is delighted to
announce that following a further approach from West Ham United for Stephen
Hendrie, we have been able to reach agreement on a fee, and Stephen has
signed with the London Club.

"Furthermore we have agreed with West Ham that Stephen will remain with us
as a player till the end of the season.

"Stephen has been with the Club since the age of 13 and we are delighted
that another of our players who has come through our Academy, has moved to
the English Premier League and we wish him well."

News of Hendrie's departure has met with a mixed response from Accies fans.
redandwhite1874, posting on Accies World wrote: "It's a short career and
this will probably sort him for life. I would love to see him do well, but
personally I think he has gone to a level to high."

Stodmeister added: "Week after week people have a go at Hendrie and say he
is no good, so now they get what they want and the club gets money for him.
What's the problem? I wish him all the best , we just move on."

Accies999 was however rather more supportive, stating: "It's fantastic
watching another product of the Accies youth policy progress to bigger and
better things.

"I hope his career continues to flourish and I most definitely will keep an
eye on his progress like most of us have with the previous Accies youngsters
that have progressed."

Hendrie, who is somewhat awkwardly the February poster in Hamilton's annual
calendar, made his competitive debut for the Accies in August 2011 at the
age of just 16, before receiving his first international nod - for
Scotland's Under 17s - in October of the same year.

Three years later he made his debut for the Under 21s, but is yet to appear
for the seniors.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison's antics leave loan club perplexed
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 30th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Ravel Morrison's short spell at Cardiff was littered with a series of
bizarre episodes, KUMB has learned.

The 21-year-old midfielder, who yesterday signed a pre-contract agreement
with Serie A side Lazio spent three months on loan with the Championship
club ahead of Christmas.

According to a club insider, Morrison proved a huge hit on the first day
with the Bluebirds - so much so that a number of players felt that their
chances of promotion had improved dramatically overnight.

However it wasn't long before the facade began to slip.

On that very same first day, Morrison refused to eat lunch with the rest of
the squad - the result, it is said, of being embarrassed by the condition of
his teeth.

And before long, the same problems that have dogged the midfielder
throughout his fledgling career rose to the surface.

As per his time at Manchester United and West Ham, Morrison began to fail to
attend training sessions - and by the end of his spell in Wales, was only
turning up when he wanted to.

The insider also reported that Morrison refused to accept the fines he was
set by Cardiff for his disciplinary issues, informing his (temporary)
employers that he would simply not pay them.

During his three month stay in Wales, the England Under 21 international
made seven appearances for the Bluebirds - but failed to complete a single
full match. He flew to Italy earlier this week to undergo a medical ahead of
a free transfer move to Lazio.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers miss out on French starlet
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 30th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Young French striker Jean-Kevin Augustine is poised to turn his back on West
Ham and sign for Paris St Germain. The 17-year-old, who came through the
ranks at the Parc des Princes has been pursued by West Ham - who were hoping
to land him for a nominal fee at the end of the season - recently. However
reports in France suggest that the highly-rated young forward is now set to
snub the Hammers and sign a three-year professional contract with the
Parisian side instead. St Germain, whose Academy is based at Camp des Loges
in Saint-Germain-en-Laye has long been recognised as one of the best youth
facilities in France. Previous graduates include the likes of Nicolas
Anelka, Sylvain Distin, Patrick M'Boma and Mamadou Sakho. Stunned last year
by the loss of Kingsley Comane on a free transfer to Juventus last summer,
PSG were determined not to repeat that scenario again during this transfer
window with Augustine.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lassana Diarra training with West Ham
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 30th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Lassana Diarra is currently training with West Ham ahead of a possible
pre-transfer deadline move. The French international midfielder is
understood to have flown to England ahead of Monday evening's transfer
deadline and is currently training at Chadwell Heath (Goal).
KUMB reported earlier in the week how Sam Allardyce was looking at Inter
target Diarra as an alternative to Darren Fletcher, for whom an offer
remains on the table. Roberto Mancini - who is now likely to turn his
attention to Liverpool's Lucas Leiva or Mario Suarez of Athletico Madrid -
has been frustrated in his efforts to sign Diarra who remains entrenched in
a legal battle with former club Lokomotive Moscow, the club that sacked him
last August. And that has allowed Allardyce to take a closer look at the
former Chelsea and Portsmouth star, who last played in England back in 2009
- even though any potential move would be fraught with the same difficulties
as experienced y Inter. Diarra was fired by Moscow after refusing to attend
training last summer, having fallen out with head coach Leonid Kuchuk.
However the two parties are said to be involved in a long-running legal
battle that has prevented the 29-year-old from joining another club.
Hamburg, Lyon, Dinamo Kiev and Borussia Dortmund are all reported this
morning to be monitoring Diarra's situation.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea to test West Ham's resolve with £21million bid for Enner Valencia
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 29th January 2015
By: Staff Writer

Chelsea are willing to pay £21million to land West Ham United's Enner
Valencia before the transfer deadline, according to a story in one of this
morning's tabloids.

The Sun's Alan Nixon and Dan King claim that Chelsea are willing to offer
West Ham the opportunity to make a profit of around £8million on a player
they purchased only six months ago.

The Premier League title favourites have already splashed out £27million to
land Fiorentina's Juan Cuadrado this week, but are still keen to land the
Ecuador international according to the story.

However any such overtures are likely to be rejected by the Hammers, with
David Sullivan insisting only two weeks ago that none of Sam Allardyce's
first team squad were up for sale.

Valencia's career at the Boleyn has been hit and miss so far. Whilst he hit
the ground running with technically excellent goals against Hull and Stoke,
he has struggled to maintain a place in Sam Allardyce's first team with Andy
Carroll and Diafra Sakho ahead in the pecking order of late.

Valencia, who cost West Ham circa £12.5million when signing from Pachuca
last summer has thus far scored just four goals in his 23 appearances for
the Hammers. The current record transfer fee received by West Ham for a
player was the £18million Leeds paid for Rio Ferdinand 15 years ago.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Brendan Rodgers praises former Red Stewart Downing
Last Updated: 30/01/15 2:39pm
SSN

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has praised in-form West Ham star Stewart
Downing and admits he did not want the midfielder to leave Anfield. The
30-year-old is currently in his second season at Upton Park and has been a
key figure in their rise up the table this campaign. Liverpool entertain the
Londoners on Saturday one point and one place ahead of them in the Premier
League table and Rodgers says Downing's excellent performances under Sam
Allardyce have come as no surprise to him. "Stewart was one I did not want
to let go," he said. "It was a difficult start for him but when we worked
together at the beginning in the second part of the season he was one of the
regular players so he wasn't someone who I wanted to move on. "He has done
very well at West Ham. He is a really gifted player technically, he has a
wonderful technique, he plays games and trains every day and is a good guy,
so it's not surprising to me how well he has done." Striker Andy Carroll,
who also left Anfield for Upton Park, was another to draw praise from
Rodgers ahead of the match.
"Andy is a fantastic football player. He has quality and ability around the
box," he said. "I just felt in terms of how I play, and maybe how the team
operates, that he might not have been a regular player because of the
movement and the speed at which we try to work. "But that doesn't mean he is
a bad player. He is an outstanding player and when he is fit he has shown
that at West Ham." As for trying to avenge the result at Upton Park where
Liverpool lost 3-1 last September, Rodgers said: "It's a different team now
and we have a different mentality. "I think at that point in time we were
struggling. We were trying to play with the same flow and the same rhythm
but we just couldn't find it at that time. "I think you see now the
confidence in the team. I think we've returned to the top level."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Daniel Sturridge set for return as Liverpool host West Ham at Anfield
Last Updated: 30/01/15 4:31pm
SSN

Liverpool are set to welcome back England striker Daniel Sturridge for the
visit of West Ham. It's a welcome boost for manager Brendan Rodgers as his
side look to bounce back from their Capital One Cup semi-final exit at the
hands of Chelsea. Liverpool, who are unbeaten in their last six Premier
League matches, have been in excellent form of late and will be looking to
avoid a second defeat to West Ham this season. If history is anything to go
by West Ham face a tough task trying to get anything from their trip to
Liverpool, having not won away in the league at Anfield since 1963, losing
30 and drawing 11 of their subsequent 41 visits since. Sam Allardyce's men
have scored just seven goals in their last 29 away matches against
Liverpool, failing to score on 23 occasions, but this season West Ham are a
different proposition. The Hammers currently sit one point above Liverpool
in the league and will be hoping for a repeat of their 3-1 win at Upton Park
back earlier in the season.

Team news

Sturridge is likely to make his first appearance in five months at Anfield
on Saturday.The 25-year-old, who has not played for the Reds since August
due to thigh problems, is in "top-class condition" according to Rodgers, who
will decide whether to start the former Chelsea forward or name him on the
bench. Liverpool will also assess defender Mamadou Sakho, who suffered a
back injury during the Capital One Cup semi-final.

Sky sources understand 16-year-old centre half Reece Oxford is in West Ham
squad to face Liverpool. If he features for the hammers tomorrow at Anfield
he will be the youngest player in Premier League history and the club's
youngest ever player. Oxford recently signed his first professional
contract. On Wednesday, West Ham Academy manager Terry Westley admitted
Oxford was interesting Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal and
described the England U17 captain as one of the best young central defenders
in Europe.

Allardyce is hoping a number of his West Ham players can recover from minor
knocks in time for the trip to Liverpool. The Hammers are looking for a
Premier League double over Rodgers' side but could be without a host of
first-team regulars with Carl Jenkinson, James Tomkins and Alex Song all
suffering with unspecified problems. Joey O'Brien (hamstring) and James
Collins (groin) could add to Allardyce's defensive woes but Senegal's exit
from the African Cup of Nations may see Cheikhou Kouyate return in midfield.

Opta stats

West Ham United have scored more headed goals than any other team in the top
division (14).
36 points after 22 matches is West Ham's best ever points haul in the
Premier League era.
Allardyce's team have been very efficient just after half-time, scoring more
goals (10) in the 15 minutes after the break than any other side in the
division.
Glen Johnson has scored three goals and has one assist in his last six
Premier League appearances against his former club.
Raheem Sterling now has as many Premier League assists as he managed last
season (five).
Morgan Amalfitano has scored three goals from just four shots on target in
the Premier League this season.

Merson's prediction

This is a tricky one because you have two teams that have been playing
really good football. I saw Liverpool play Chelsea the other night and they
were by far the team playing better football, but they are really missing
Sturridge. I know they'd like to ease him back in but they need a goalscorer
now. West Ham have really impressed me this season, but I just think they
will lose out at Anfield.

PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1

Betting

West Ham are 9/2 shots with Sky Bet to complete a rare Premier League double
over Liverpool. The Hammers have a shocking record at Anfield and as a
result Liverpool are 8/13 favourites to maintain their improved form and
claim all three points. Sterling is 7/4 to net in a win for the hosts but
Andy Carroll is certain to prove popular on his return to his former
stamping ground and is 7/1 to net first and 12/5 to net in 90 minutes. The
Reds remain odds-on to secure a top six finish this term with the Hammers
5/1 shots.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ONE IN, ONE OUT?
By Iain Dale 30 Jan 2015 at 14:27
West Ham Till I Die

The Sun reported this morning that Chelsea have bid a massive £21 million
for Enner Valencia. That would represent a £9 million profit on a player we
bought in August for £12 million. It's a hell of a lot of money to turn down
for a player who, although at times has looked the real deal, hasn't yet
managed to pull up many daisies. But selling him would reinforce the view
that West Ham will always be a second tier club who will always sell their
best players to their main competitors. Having lost Lampard, Cole and
Johnson to Chelsea, it really would stick in the throat to now lose Valencia
too.

Darren Fletcher is apparently having a medical at West Ham this afternoon.
I'm am rather at a loss to see why we need a player like Fletcher. I'm not
saying he's a bad player, but we're very well served in midfield and hardly
lack players who can perform well there. And I include Diego Poyet in that.
Our first choice midfield, when fit, surely has to be Noble, Song and
Kouyate. I can't see Darren Fletcher displacing any of them. Can you?

And meanwhile, Winston Reid continues to play silly buggers and refuses to
sign a new contract.

UPDATE: Hamilton Academicals have announced? that West Ham have signed left
back Stephen Hendrie for a fee of £1 million. He will stay in Scotland until
the start of next season. I guess that signals the end of the road for Dan
Potts, which is a crying shame. I really thought he would make it.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says Kop flop Andy Carroll could be worth
£70million today
22:30, 30 January 2015 By Jon West
The Hammers boss is a huge fan of the former Newcastle striker and says a
player of his ability would be worth between £60million and £70million in
today's market
The Mirror

Sam Allardyce has backed Andy Carroll to show Liverpool what a £35million
striker looks like. Brendan Rodgers didn't fancy the big man he had
inherited from Kenny Dalglish, who bought him in January 2011. Rodgers put
his faith in Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge and was rewarded with an
avalanche of goals. But Suarez is now at Barcelona , Sturridge returns
tomorrow just coming back from long-term injury and it is West Ham's Carroll
who is enjoying the form of his life. "There are few of his type and
capabilities today," said Allardyce, ahead of Carroll's long-awaited Anfield
return. "Kenny saw him as wanting to lead the line with Suarez and they
bought him. Because he never had a long time to establish himself – and a
new manager came in with a different philosophy – he leaves. "So, at the
time everyone said, '£35million, wow, what is going on?'. "It's a drop in
the ocean now. Two years on, £35million won't even get you a top quality
striker and you have to go to 50, 60, 70, 100million bracket. "What did
Barca play for Suarez? £80million? At the time, people think that was
over-priced, but when you are giving them a five or six-year contract and,
if two or three years down the line, they are developing as good as you
expect, then everyone talks about it as a bargain – '£35million for Andy
Carroll, what a bargain and we would pay £60million or £70million for him
now'. That is football at the top level."Allardyce admitted he was worried
Carroll might try too hard to prove himself at Anfield – where West ham have
not won since 1963. He said: "It's like Alex Song when we played Arsenal –
you could see that extra bit of tension. "But you can't let that distract
you from what your game is, you've got to stay cool and calm and collected.
"If you lose control, in terms of how you are thinking, then you lose your
game. "Hopefully, he goes out and performs very well. I hope the team
performs very well and we would all like him to score, if possible."
Liverpool will be wary of the big man from set-pieces and high balls into
the box as there is no one in England better at getting on the end of those.
But Allardyce was adamant Carroll was not as limited as Rodgers had
concluded, citing goals against Swansea and West Bromwich. He said: "Just
watch the videos to see how talented he is. "They are two pieces of
brilliance – the Swansea one with the foot over the left-foot shot, and the
right-foot volley over his shoulder and the swivel – that show you his
capabilities as an all-round footballer."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Harry Redknapp targeting West Ham's Mark Noble for QPR
19:59, 30 January 2015 By Darren Lewis
QPR and West Brom interested in the midfielder with West Ham set to sign
Manchester United's Darren Fletcher
The Mirror

QPR are targeting a shock move for West Ham vice-captain Mark Noble. The
27-year-old midfielder, set to line up against Liverpool this afternoon, has
also attracted the interest of West Brom boss Tony Pulis. Both clubs would
have to improve on the £40,000-a-week that Noble is on at at Upton Park. But
Noble could become the odd-man out in the Hammers midfield with the club
poised to confirm the arrival of Darren Fletcher. The Irons have fierce
competition for places in the middle of the park but are set to offer
Fletcher regular first team action along Alex Song and Cheikhou Kouyate
after beating off West Brom, Valencia and several other clubs for the
Scotland international's signature. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce also has
Morgan Amalfitano and Kevin Nolan at his disposal as the club push for a
place in the top four. Noble is coming to the end of a three-year contract
at West Ham but has an option for another two years in the summer which, if
triggered, would see his current wages go up to £50,000-a-week. The Canning
Town-born midfielder is hugely popular and well-respected - both inside and
outside the dressing room - at the club he supported as a boy. It is
understood both QPR and West Brom are attracted to him because of his
experience and leadership qualities. Noble has been relegated before with
West Ham, helped them to regain promotion and stood up to be counted last
season when fans booed the team last season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fierce reaction to Fletcher arrival
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 30, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Darren Fletcher is currently starting out on a medical which looks likely to
be the sternest ever conducted at the club. The player's injury and serious
illness record is such that the Irons board are determined to leave no stone
unturned on the player's well being.
Right at this moment there are some very nervous people at the club who
believe this could be a disastrous signing. One senior source when asked by
ClaretandHugh when the outcome of the medical would be known said: "It will
be several days – we need to be 100 per cent sure all is well. It will be
stringent and cover absolutely everything."

Immediate reaction to the news that the Manchester United midfielder could
be on his way to the club has not been great on this site's forums.

Among the comments left are:

O 'Another great idea of our brilliant manager… when he'll finally leave the
club it will be a great day and I'll have a party.'

O ' I really can't see the benefit of Fletcher s at the cost reported with
his recent track record of unavailability. I was also beginning to think our
scouting network was working, but again, maybe I'm wrong. If Sam is worried
about not landing Song surely we could have identified someone who plays +30
games a season and is hungry to join a team on the up.'

O 'If we agreed to the original terms of Fletcher's demand this is going to
cost us just shy of 11 million quid over 3.5 years. For a player who has
played a total of 50 games in the last 4 years. I understand the need to
have a back up midfield leader if Song goes, but to agree to such a deal
would be crazy. I can't wait to hear the final terms.'

O 'What a shocking piece of business – sorry David's you have given into
this manager and being bullied – I don't know what it will take you to
realise that that the majority of fans cannot stand him. Please don't go
through with this signing – even if Song does not sign Fletcher is not his
replacement – we will need to buy again in the summer. We need younger
fresher legs. Poyet is a far better prospect.'

O 'Why are we doing this deal? What happened to our (successful) new
transfer strategy? He brings no improvement to our squad and will no doubt
become a block to the development of young players like Poyet, at ridiculous
expense and risk. He is way past his best, if he wasn't, he would not be
released on a free from Manure. '

O 'Well done BFS! Darren Fletcher, 31 years old, a perfect perspective
player! The ideal replacement of Song… Don't worry, if Fletcher doesn't work
we have Nolan… The future is ours!'

Only a couple spoke in favour of the deal with one correspondent saying:
"Well done to our manager for having an eye on good playmakers and bargains!
Fletcher can be a very good addition to an already brilliant squad assembled
by Big Sam. Let's hope it all goes to plan! COYI….

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fletcher agrees but stern medical ahead
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 30, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

Sam Allardyce has been the prime mover to bring Darren Fletcher to West Ham
United. The Manchester United player is the type of athletic midfielder
beloved by the manager and we have been told within the last few minutes the
player has finally accepted West Ham's terms.
Hiowever, a lot of people remain very nervous about a deal which will see a
player with a poor injury track record join the club.
A source inside Upton Park told us a few minutes ago: "He didn't arrive at
West Ham until this morning but we spoke with his team last night after
having heard nothing since Monday. "They have agreed a deal but as we have
said throughout the week the player will now face a very tough medical
before anything is agreed. Many people are very nervous about the deal" Many
believe Fletcher's best years are behind him and the constant mantra from
some quarters has been that the club wants "younger and hungrier players."
But it seems the manager fears he may not be able to land Alex Song in the
summer have been listened to and that Fletcher will be signed as a result
should all go well with the medical.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid "gamble" may misfire
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 30, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & hugh

Winston Reid still hasn't shown any indication he's ready to re-sign for
the Hammers. And a delay until the end of the season could cost the central
defender a small fortune if what may be a calculated gamble misfires. With
the closure of the transfer window close, Reid has a deal on the table
which, if he signs, gives him a substantial rise payable from the moment he
commits. However, those close to the situation believe he may now be ready
to allow things to remain as they are until the summer as he pursues a
bigger deal elsewhere on a free transfer.

However, ClaretandHugh was told: "If he fails to get what he is looking for
he will have missed out on several months of increased cash to finish up no
better off. "There has not been a single offer for him from anywhere so he
may be playing a high risk game but we remain committed to him and want him
to sign. "Some have said we should take the offer of the table but we won't
be doing that – for various reasons that could be counter productive."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers open up on Valencia 'bid'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 30, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh

West Ham have not received a £21 million offer for Enner Valencia! Morning
reports that Chelsea have started talks with the Irons with a view to taking
the Ecuador international (pictured above) were described to ClaretandHugh a
few minutes ago as "entirely false."
The Sun has been pushing the story for a couple of days but a Hammers source
told us this morning: "A lot of agents are winding the thing up but there is
nothing on the table in terms of a bid. "Nor has there been any contact from
Chelsea at this stage." Tht is entirely false."

The Sun reported today that Jose Mourinho has approved the move for
Valencia, and Chelsea's negotiators have begun talks with the Hammers to
land the Ecuadorian striker before the window shuts. Our source said: "We've
received no bid and all this does is unsettle our players. We keep hearing
the rumours but until a bid arrives on the table there's nothing to say."
And he added with heavy emphasis: I just want to point out that whatever
happens or doesn't happen in that area, Diafra Sakho not for sale at ANY
price."
Perhaps significantly, despite the Senegal international being mentioned
yesterday as a Chelsea target, he has been dropped from today's update in
the 'paper!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com



---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com