Monday, July 9

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 9th July 2007

Hi All , I'm back from sunny Venezuela - many thanks to Dave Witts for
standing in while I was away. If I repeat any stories today , apologies but
I have had about a zillion emails to read and can't recall all the digest
stories :)

PeterR

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Carroll signs one year Gers deal - BBC

Rangers have signed former West Ham and Manchester United goalkeeper Roy
Carroll on a one year contract. The Northern Irishman started his career
with Hull City in 1995 and moved on to Wigan Athletic, where he made 136
appearances for the Lancashire club. The 29-year-old spent four seasons with
Alex Ferguson's side from 2001-2005, before moving to Upton Park. He will
provide Allan McGregor and Graeme Smith with competition for the number one
jersey at Ibrox. Carroll said: "It's a fantastic opportunity and I had no
hesitation in accepting the offer. "I have made no secret that I am a
Rangers fan so this is really a dream move for me. "It's going to be a
battle to get into the team but I'm ready to fight."

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Bellamy closes in on Hammers move - BBC

West Ham have confirmed they have agreed terms with Liverpool on a £7.5m
deal to sign Craig Bellamy but have denied the move has been completed.
Earlier, Reds boss Rafa Benitez said the Welsh international had completed a
move to Upton Park. "West Ham would like to make it clear that Craig Bellamy
has not yet completed a move to Upton Park. "The deal has been delayed due
to a private contractual issue between Craig Bellamy and Liverpool," said
West Ham. "The player is due to meet with Liverpool on Monday morning, and
we expect to complete the transfer soon after."
Benitez said he had made an offer for West Ham midfielder Yossi Benayoun,
which has been turned down. "Any move for Benayoun will not be linked with
the Bellamy sale. We made an offer which was rejected," he said. "He is a
player I like and would want to sign, and I believe he wants to join us, but
that deal will be separate now. We will have to wait and see what happens
now next week."
West Ham had attempted to use Benayoun as a straight swap for Bellamy, but
Liverpool consider him to be worth around £3.5m, and that offer has been
rejected by the Hammers. Bellamy has fallen down the pecking order at
Anfield following Benitez's summer signings of Fernando Torres and Andriy
Voronin.
The Wales captain joined Liverpool from Blackburn for £6m in June 2006.
After starting his career with Norwich City, he has also had stints with
Coventry City, Newcastle United, plus a loan spell at Celtic. Bellamy scored
nine goals in 42 appearances for the Reds. But the addition of £20m signing
Torres this week means Liverpool have five senior strikers on their books -
with Bellamy, Peter Crouch, Dirk Kuyt and fellow new-boy Voronin making up
the total.

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Mullins set for Charlton - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 7th July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Hammers midfielder Hayden Mullins is set to join former boss Alan Pardew at
Charlton, according to reports. The 28-year-old midfielder - who was
Pardew's first signing at West Ham - is poised to complete a £1m move to the
Valley after being told he has no future with the Hammers. He is understood
to have rejected the opportunity to stay in the Premiership with Reading,
his home town club, in order to join up with Pardew once again. Mullins
joined the Hammers in October 2003 in a £500,000 switch from Crystal Palace.
Despite being a midfielder by trade he played much of his first season as an
emergency full-back, whilst occasionally stepping in at centre-half (most
notably in the 3-1 FA Cup win at Wolves in January 2004 - possibly his
finest game in a United shirt). Having been part of the West Ham team that
reached the 2006 FA Cup Final he was distraught to discover he had been
banned from appearing in the final after being sent off in a league game
against Liverpool a week prior to the Cardiff showpiece following an
innocuous incident with Luis Garcia. Although he featured heavily in the
opening half of the 06/07 campaign once Alan Curbishley arrived at the club
it became clear that Mullins' days were numbered - despite having scored
what proved to be winning goals against Blackburn and Sheffield United prior
to Curbishley's arrival.

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Tevez vows to join United - Sky
By Chris Harvey - Created on 8 Jul 2007

Carlos Tevez claims he has promised Sir Alex Ferguson he will join
Manchester United. The Argentine striker is determined to do all he can to
push through his move to Old Trafford. The completion of the switch to the
Premier League champions has stalled with West Ham arguing the forward
cannot leave Upton Park without their approval. But Tevez wants to honour
his pledge to Sir Alex and join his side. He told The People: "Through my
backers I have given my word to Mr Ferguson. They have told him I'll be at
Manchester United next season and once I make a promise I don't go back on
it. "There isn't a player who would turn down this opportunity and the
negotiations are too far advanced to go back now. "I have been open and
honest with West Ham every step of the way and I hope the fans understand."
Tevez also claims he only decided to quit Upton Park after The Hammers
decided not to make his deal permanent. "My representatives sat down with
West Ham at the end of the season and once it became clear they were not
going to sign me, they gave me permission to talk to other clubs so I am
surprised this is causing such a stink," the Argentine said. Manchester
United believe their move for Tevez will not contravene Premier League rules
because it will be no different to Liverpool's January swoop for Tevez's
compatriot Javier Mascherano. But Reds chief executive Rick Parry has
questioned the need for loan deals in English football's top flight Former
Premier League supremo Parry believes the loan system could be abused and
thinks clubs are wealthy enough to make the practice unnecessary. He said:
"When I was at the Premier League we always took the view that, given the
money in the Premier League, you didn't need loans - you should be able to
stand on your own two feet. "There is enough money around to make transfer
deals permanent. "That stood over 10 years. It's only in the last two or
three years that we have had the loan system in the Premier League."

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Tevez in dark on United move - Sky
By James Pearson - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Carlos Tevez says he has little information to provide regarding his
proposed move to Premier League champions Manchester United. It had been
thought the Argentina international was closing in on a switch to The Red
Devils on an initial two-year loan deal. However, when asked the latest on
his protracted move, Tevez, who is back home in his native South America,
was unable to confirm anything. The 23-year-old is opting to concentrate on
preparing to play Peru in the Copa America quarter-finals rather than where
he may be playing next term. "I don't know anything," explained Tevez, whose
controversial switch to West Ham last year continues to infuriate Sheffield
United. "I'm focused on the Copa America and don't want to think about
anything else."

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Delay in Bellamy signing - West Ham Online
Match Reporter - Sat Jul 7 2007

On a busy Saturday, Rafael Benitez confirmed to Sky Sports news after
Liverpool's 3-2 win at Wrexham that Craig Bellamy had completed his move
from Liverpool to West Ham. However shorty after West Ham made a statement
that Bellamy hadn't actually signed but a fee of £7.5million was agreed
between the two clubs and that the Welsh international captain has
successfully passed a medical and agreed personal terms. However, the deal
has been delayed due to a private contractual issue between Craig Bellamy
and Liverpool, which must be resolved before any transfer can be completed.
The player is due to meet with Liverpool on Monday morning and West Ham
expect to complete the transfer soon after. He also confirmed that Liverpool
latest bid to prise Yossi Benayoun away from Upton Park had been rejected by
West Ham. Elsewhere Roy Carroll joined Rangers on a free after his release
by the Hammers.
Controversial striker Bellamy has had his fair share of scrapes with his
past managers, players and the Police and has turned into somewhat of a
nomadic striker in the past few seasons. The Norwich City trainee earned
his first big money move back in 2000 when Coventry paid £6.5m to take him
to the midlands. He scored just 8 goals that season but it was enough for
Newcastle to pay £6m to take him to Tyneside the following summer. It's fair
to say that his time at St James Park with mixed and a fall out with manager
Souness and a high profile bust up with Alan Shearer saw the Toon fans turn
against him and on the eve of the January transfer window escaped on loan
for Celtic where he had a successful spell in Scotland scoring 9 goals in
just 15 games. Ex Wales manager Mark Hughes then paid £5m in the summer of
2005 for the Welsh International striker and he enjoyed his most successful
spell of his career scoring 17 times and that was enough to see Benitez take
the risk in signing him from Ewood Park last summer. His spell at Liverpool
wasn't a disaster but Bentitz rotation policy, the falling out with team
mates and the arrival of Torres had seen him become surplus to requirements
at Anfield. The winner of the PFA young player of the year award in 2002 has
recently been made the Welsh captain and it's hoped that that honour and the
influence of team-mates Danny Gabbidon and James Collins will keep the
firery Welsh Man in check.

Norwich City 01/8/1996 – 17/8/200
League 71 apps 13 sub 32 goals
Cups 7 apps 2 goals

Coventry City 17/8/2000 – 25/6/2001
League 33 apps 6 sub 6 goals
Cups 5 app 2 goals

Newcastle United 25/6/2001 – 08/7/2005
League 87 apps 6 sub 28 goals
Cups 8 apps 2 sub 4 goals
Europe and others 24 apps 11 goals

Celtic 31/1/2005 – 30/5/2005
League 12 apps 7 goals
Cups 3 apps 2 goals

Blackburn 8/7/2005 – 22/6/2006
League 22 apps 5 sub 13 goals
Cups 4 apps 1 sub 4 goals

Liverpool 22/6/2006 – 7/7/2007
League 23 apps 4 sub 7 goals
Cups 2 apps 0 goals
Europe and others 8 apps 5 sub 2 goals

Roy Carroll became one of Alan Pardew's main signings upon West Ham's return
to the Premiership. Signed on a free transfer from Man Utd to become the
West Ham number 1.

Some excellent performances saw him become a fans favourite before injury in
late January ruled him out for the remained of the season.

Carroll then started last season as number one whilst new signing Robert
Green recovered from injury but he soon lost his place to Green and was then
reported to have had to check into rehab.

Roy then regained his place in early January as Green took some unfair blame
for the heavy defeat at Reading on New Years day. He kept his place in the
team for a mere 6 games before Green was recalled to show the outstanding
form that helped keep West Ham in the Premiership.

West Ham United 15/6/2005 – 30/6/2007
League apps 31
Fa Cup apps 2
UEFA cup apps 2

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Parry calls for loan ban after Tevez affair - Telegraph
By John Ley
Last Updated: 2:47am BST 09/07/2007

As Manchester United moved closer to signing Carlos Tevez on a two-year loan
deal, Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry called for temporary moves to be
banned in the Premiership. Parry, formerly chief executive at the Premier
League, believes the loan system could be abused and thinks clubs are
wealthy enough to make the practice unnecessary. He said: "When I was at the
Premier League we always took the view that, given the money in the Premier
League, you didn't need loans - you should be able to stand on your own two
feet. "There is enough money around to make transfer deals permanent. That
stood for over 10 years. It's only in the last two or three years we have
had the loan system in the Premier League."
But Parry conceded that most of Liverpool's top-flight rivals did not share
his views. "It worked fine without it. There is a sense that it can be open
to abuse. But clearly it was the will of the clubs to allow the relaxation
of it and clearly the majority are in favour," he said. The move for Tevez
remains shrouded in legal challenges and confusion. West Ham issued a
statement on Friday night insisting the Argentine is a registered West Ham
player contracted to 2010. The Premier League will scrutinise the agreement,
with Manchester United believing they can sign the striker on a two-year
loan with a view to a three-year permanent move. The saga could drag on for
months as Kia Joorabchian contests West Ham's right to tear up the agreement
which gave his companies, Media Sports Investments and Just Sport Inc, the
power to transfer Tevez at a time of their choosing with only £100,000 going
to the club. The Premier League insist West Ham must keep the market rate of
any loan or transfer fee or they could be found guilty of breaching the same
rule on third-party interference which culminated with the club receiving a
£5.5 million fine.

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Tevez pleads ignorance over United reports - Telegraph
Last Updated: 12:29am BST 08/07/2007

Carlos Tevez last night insisted he knew nothing about a reported two-year
loan move to Manchester United. The West Ham and Argentina forward, who is
on international duty at the Copa America, said: "I don't know anything. I'm
focused on the Copa America and don't want to think about anything else."

Meanwhile, Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe has fiercely criticised
the Premier League over their handling of West Ham's punishment for breaking
rules in the signing of Tevez. An arbitration panel last week upheld the
decision to fine West Ham £5.5 million and not dock points - a ruling that
contributed to United's relegation - although a High Court challenge is set
for Friday.

"They seem to be hiding and have no sense of shame," said McCabe. "There has
been a loss of integrity in our national game."


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Liverpool eye Benayoun deal after Bellamy exit

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez will step up his efforts to sign West Ham's
Israel midfielder Yossi Benayoun after the club agreed to Craig Bellamy's
move to Upton Park. West Ham last night insisted Bellamy still had
contractual issues to resolve with Liverpool before his £7.5 million
transfer could be finalised, although the Wales striker has agreed a
four-year contract and passed a medical.

Benitez said he had declined West Ham's offer of a straight swap for
Benayoun. "We have made an offer which has been rejected," said Benitez. "He
is a player I like and would want to sign, and I believe he wants to join
us."

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President Titi? - West Ham Til I Die
July 8th, 2007

Former West Ham striker Titi Camara has been disqualified from standing for
election to the Guinea Football Association because officials say he is not
experienced enough. The 34-year-old has been told he may not stand for the
presidency of the Guinean federation because he does not fulfill a rule
requiring candidates to have at least four years experience of managing a
sports association or football team, the guineenews.com Web site reported.
He was one of Harry Redknapp's "dodgiest" buys, costing a cool £2.5 million.
If i remember correctly he didn't actually ever score a goal for us.

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Hammers to tie up Bellamy deal - The Sun
By PAT SHEEHAN
July 09, 2007

CRAIG BELLAMY will complete his move to West Ham today after sorting out a
last-minute hitch with Liverpool. The Wales striker has passed a medical at
Upton Park after the Hammers and Liverpool agreed a £7.5million fee. But
Bellamy, 27, is due loyalty bonuses from Liverpool as he did not request a
move and they will have to be paid this morning before the deal can be
sealed. West Ham confirmed in a statement: "The deal has been delayed due to
a private contractual issue between Craig Bellamy and Liverpool." Hammers
midfield ace Yossi Benayoun will be moving the other way for around £4.5m
after he rejected an improved deal from West Ham.

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Defender set for Premiership exit - all3points.com
9th July 2007
By Staff Writer

Paul Konchesky looks set to leave West Ham United to join fellow Premiership
club Manchester City according to reports over the weekend. The Sunday
Mirror claims Konchesky is believed to be the answer to the sky blues left
sided defensive problems by new City boss Sven Goran Eriksson. Birmingham
previously had a £1.5 million fee rejected by the Hammers for Konchesky but
a fee of around £2 million should seal a move for the out of favour
defender.

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What the papers say - This Is London
08.07.07

West Ham have given the boot to hopes that they can keep Carlos Tevez, after
kicking him out of his London apartment. The Hammers are locked in a bitter
fight over Tevez joining Manchester United in another loan deal and insist
the Argentina striker, loaned to them by businessman Kia Joorabchian,
remains under contract until 2010. They were prepared to pay £9million a
season to keep him after leading them to Premiership safety last season, and
were expecting him to return to pre-season training. But the News Of The
World reports that the 23-year-old has been evicted from his Canary Wharf
penthouse and has had his personal belongings shipped out - moving in their
new £6m signing Julien Faubert. West Ham are desperate for compensation in
Tevez's £38million loan move to Manchester United takes place. Tevez has
been angling for a big-money move since the season ended and at verious
times he has been quoted as saying he would like to play for Real Madrid,
Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea. Try as they might, West Ham won't be
able to keep Tevez, according to the The Daily Star, who say Manchester
United have been given the go-ahead by FIFA and the Premier League to buy
Tevez.

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£8 million deal hits problems - all3points.com 9th July 2007 By Staff
Writer

West Ham United's bid to sign Craig Bellamy from Liverpool has run into
problems despite the player passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benetiz even claimed over the weekend that Bellamy had
secured a move to West Ham but a contractual wrangle over payments due to
the player from Liverpool appears to be the delaying factor.
A statement on the club's official web site last night read: "After a fee of
£7.5million was agreed between the two clubs, we can confirm that the Welsh
international captain has successfully passed a medical and agreed personal
terms. "However, the deal has been delayed due to a private contractual
issue between Craig Bellamy and Liverpool, which must be resolved before any
transfer can be completed. "The player is due to meet with Liverpool on
Monday morning, and we expect to complete the transfer soon after. "

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Defence 'a team responsibility' - foxsports.com.au From Robert Smith in
Bangkok

July 09, 2007 AUSTRALIA must defend better as a team unit if it is to fulfil
its ambitions of winning the Asian Cup at the first attempt, star defender
Lucas Neill says. The Socceroos were lucky to claim a 1-1 draw against
unfancied Oman, with another of Tim Cahill's last-gasp goals keeping their
tournament alive, but the team's defence looms as a destabilising weakness.
The defence was pulled out of shape for Badar Mubarak's 32nd-minute strike
to give Oman the lead that it held until Cahill's injury-time equaliser.
Australia's defence is in transition, missing four key players from the
squad that went to the World Cup finals last year - with Tony Popovic and
Tony Vidmar having retired, and Craig Moore and Scott Chipperfield
unavailable for the current tournament. Coach Graham Arnold is trying to bed
down a central partnership of West Ham United rock Lucas Neill and Patrick
Kisnorbo with midfield player Luke Wilkshire a stop-gap left-back in
Chipperfield's absence. But the unit looked susceptible against Oman, with
Middlesbrough goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer making three great saves in the
second half to deny the Gulf team. Kisnorbo, who plays for Leicester City in
England's second-tier competition, the Championship, did not look
comfortable while Blackburn Rovers defender Brett Emerton was frequently
caught out of position at right-back. "The goal was very sloppy but it
starts at the front," Neill said. "We need to defend better from the front
and through the midfield and at the back, so everybody has their part to
play in that, but we'll look at the match video and we'll learn from it.
"We're still learning. We're still a team that needs to be educated so we
just learn from our mistakes."
Schwarzer thought he was at fault for Mubarak's goal, but he made up for it
with a string of top-quality efforts to deny Ahmed Mubarak, Imad Ali and
Fawzi Basheer. "I was very disappointed with the goal," Schwarzer said. "I
thought I should have done better with it. "After that, I thought if I could
do as much as possible to try and restrict them from scoring any more goals
there was every possibility that we would finish strongly and nick one. "If
you look at the conditions, it's only natural that we were going to open up
a little bit - and we did at times - and I think collectively as a team we
defended very well at times.
"I wasn't running around anywhere near as much as the other guys, and I
still felt the heat."
Defensive midfield player Vince Grella, who looked drained by the heat
before making way for Cahill, said the team had to keep possession better.
"It's hard to play in but maybe we should look to keep the ball a little bit
and build up play a little slower when we've got the ball," the Torino star
said. "Each player knows what they've done well and what they haven't done
well. "We need honesty and I think we'll be OK.''

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Neill slams 'unprofessional' Oman - foxsports.com.au From Guy Hand in
Bangkok

July 09, 2007 AUSTRALIA defender Lucas Neill has described Oman's
time-wasting tactics in the 1-1 Asian Cup draw as "extremely unprofessional"
but typical of the tricks teams will try to get the better of Australia at
the tournament. As soon as Oman grabbed a shock 1-0 lead in the 32nd minute
through Badar Mubarak yesterday, their players started regularly feigning
injury to waste time, forcing the referee to continually stop play.
Trailing and playing badly, the Socceroos' frustration at Oman's
time-wasting ploy threatened to blow up several times, with Harry Kewell and
John Aloisi particularly angered. While not a law of the game, traditionally
opposition players kick the ball out when in possession when a rival appears
seriously hurt. The opposition then return the ball to the attacking side
from the resulting throw-in. But Oman appeared insistent on trying to stop
the Socceroos from getting momentum - players dropping as if shot off the
ball whenever Australia looked like piecing together a promising move. "We
knew that was going to happen. You want to kick the ball out, but after a
while it gets extremely unprofessional," Neill said. "The sniper in the
stands had a field day. Everyone was dropping like flies. It's frustrating,
but that's the sort of things we're going to come up against and we've just
got to rise above it."
Neill said it was impossible to officiate against the tactic, and the
Socceroos would have to accept that teams would try it on to protect a
precious lead. "How can you officiate it? If a guy goes down you have to
presume he's injured because eventually it will be like 'cry wolf'.
"Eventually one guy will be injured and they'll get hammered for not
stopping the play or us not kicking the ball out. It's tough." Perhaps the
tactic ended up costing Oman dearly - Tim Cahill's equaliser coming in the
first minute of four minutes of injury and stoppage time. But it would be a
long bow to call it poetic justice - the Socceroos were incredibly lucky to
escape with a point after being outplayed by Oman when the Arab state's
players stayed upright.

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West Ham, Bolton alerted as N'Zogbia ponders Newcastle exit
tribalfooball.com - July 08, 2007

Charles N'Zogbia is weighing up his future at Newcastle United. The People
says N'Zogbia is ready to quit Newcastle - after being snubbed on a new
contract.
N'Zogbia has been virtually ignored since Sam Allardyce came in, and now the
pacy left winger is a target for West Ham and Bolton.

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Derby cool interest in West Ham's Cole
tribalfooball.com - July 08, 2007

Derby County boss Billy Davies has dropped interest in West Ham striker
Carlton Cole. The People says Davies made a check on West Ham's former
Chelsea striker but wasn't convinced his knee problems would stand up to the
rigours of the Premier League.

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Liverpool boss Benitez warns West Ham over Benayoun fee tribalfooball.com -
July 08, 2007

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has warned West Ham they'll turn their attention
elsewhere should their asking price for Yossi Benayoun prove too steep. "On
Benayoun, we must wait and see what happens. Maybe we could find another
player, but with him I would be happy," he said after Saturday's friendly
against Wrexham. "We do not need a lot more in terms of new players for next
season, maybe two new faces. We do have a lot of young players, and maybe
some will go out on loan because we do not have enough games for them."

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Latics boss wants trio in the Hutch - TeamTalk

Wigan hope to wrap up their summer transfer dealings this week by sealing
the captures of Jason Koumas, Marlon Harewood and Michael Brown. Latics boss
Chris Hutchings has been a busy man since taking over the reins from Paul
Jewell at the JJB Stadium, signing Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski, Mario
Melchiot and Andreas Granqvist on free transfers, and paying £300,000 for
goalkeeper Carlo Nash. Although he has bolstered his squad, Hutchings has
also seen some senior players depart, with Arjan de Zeeuw and David Unsworth
released, Matt Jackson made available on a free transfer and John Filan
deciding to retire.
But he is now looking to finalise his playing pool for the 2007-08 campaign,
and wants Koumas, Harewood and Brown on board by the end of this week to
give them a full pre-season with Latics. Hutchings has previously been
thwarted in his plans to sign the trio having failed to agree fees with
their clubs - and had a £4million bid for Koumas rejected by the Baggies.
The People claims he is now ready to put £5million on the table for Wales
playmaker Koumas, offer £4million to West Ham for Harewood and hope a
£3million bid is enough to tempt Fulham to sell Brown. Henri Camara is
widely expected to make way for the new arrivals and is available for around
£4million.

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Premier league under fire over Tevez stance - The Independent By Alex Lowe,
PA Sport
Published: 09 July 2007

The Premier League have been accused of double standards after threatening
to block Carlos Tevez's proposed transfer from West Ham to Manchester
United. League officials insist West Ham, who own the player's registration
but not his economic rights, must receive the majority of the
£30million-plus fee if the move is to be sanctioned. But the Tevez camp have
questioned why the Premier League did not make the same demands when Javier
Mascherano left West Ham for Liverpool in January. It is understood
Mascherano signed the same deal at Liverpool - an initial loan with a view
to a permanent move - that United have agreed for Tevez. Speaking to PA
Sport, a source close to the situation said: "Why were the Premier League
not interested when Mascherano moved to Liverpool? It was exactly the same
deal. "The Premier League scrutinised that transfer but did not insist on
West Ham receiving any of the money from that deal."
The Premier League, however, maintain the two situations are different
because the third-party agreement in Mascherano's West Ham contract was
ended when he moved on to Liverpool. But in the case of Tevez, West Ham
opted to keep the player and unilaterally terminate the third-party clause
in his contract following an independent disciplinary commission hearing,
allowing the Argentina striker to play a key role in the Hammers' successful
fight against relegation.
A Premier League statement said: "Our position remains the same. Any deal
for the transfer of Carlos Tevez has to be struck directly with West Ham
United and we support West Ham United in asserting their rights over their
player."
West Ham responded to the Premier League's stance last night by insisting
that Tevez is under contract at Upton Park for three and would not be
leaving without the club's permission. Given the decision West Ham took in
April to terminate the third-party agreement, they had no option but to make
such an announcement. But that leaves Tevez's proposed transfer in turmoil.
The player's representatives are furious while United are frustrated the
deal has been delayed through no fault of their own. "It is nonsense for
West Ham to state they own the player," added the source. "If I lend you my
car and you rip up the log book, that does not mean you then own the car."
It is understood from sources close to the club that West Ham did not pay
any loan fee at all last summer when they signed Tevez and Mascherano. The
Hammers were only responsible for the players' wages. At the time the pair
moved to West Ham, their representative Kia Joorabchian was investigating
the possibility of buying the club

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Tevez camp angry with Premier League
tribalfooball.com - July 08, 2007

The Premier League have been accused of double standards after threatening
to block Carlos Tevez's proposed transfer from West Ham to Manchester
United. League officials insist West Ham, who own the player's registration
but not his economic rights, must receive the majority of the
£30million-plus fee if the move is to be sanctioned. But the Tevez camp have
questioned why the Premier League did not make the same demands when Javier
Mascherano left West Ham for Liverpool in January. It is understood
Mascherano signed the same deal at Liverpool - an initial loan with a view
to a permanent move - that United have agreed for Tevez. A source close to
the situation said: "Why were the Premier League not interested when
Mascherano moved to Liverpool? It was exactly the same deal. "The Premier
League scrutinised that transfer but did not insist on West Ham receiving
any of the money from that deal." The Premier League, however, maintain the
two situations are different because the third-party agreement in
Mascherano's West Ham contract was ended when he moved on to Liverpool. But
in the case of Tevez, West Ham opted to keep the player and unilaterally
terminate the third-party clause in his contract following an independent
disciplinary commission hearing. A Premier League statement said: "Our
position remains the same. Any deal for the transfer of Carlos Tevez has to
be struck directly with West Ham United and we support West Ham United in
asserting their rights over their player." West Ham responded to the Premier
League's stance last night by insisting that Tevez is under contract at
Upton Park for three and would not be leaving without the club's permission.


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Argentina 4-0 Peru Copa America 2007 - worldcuplatest.com
Result: Liverpool's Mascherano, Barcelona's Messi & Juan Riquelme With Two
To Smash Peru Submitted by Scott Harkness on Mon, 09/07/2007 - 01:49.

Argentina have thrashed Peru 4-0 in the Copa América 2007 quarter final at
the Stadio Metropolitano in Barquisimeto on Sunday, with two goals from Juan
Roman Riquelme and Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Liverpool's Javier
Mascherano also scoring for the Albiceleste to take them through to a Copa
América Semi-Final encounter against Mexico. Argentina, the favourites to
lift the Copa América 2007 trophy, started the match with more possession,
but couldn't find a way through Peru's defence, with half-chances for both
teams in the first period. The first-half ended 0-0, with Argentina becoming
frustrated with the rugged defending from Peru. Argentina head coach Alfio
Basile made one significant change at half-time, bringing Carlos Tevez on
for Diego Milito, and the change immediately paid dividends. Riquelme scored
within 90 seconds of the restart, having been set-up by Carlos Tevez in a
wonderful flowing move that ripped the Peruvian defence apart, much to the
delight of the Argentina fans. Substitute Carlos Tevez then hit the crossbar
minutes later as Argentina began to show their class. Argentina's second
goal came in the 61st minute from an equally impressive move, with Barcelona
winger Lionel Messi finishing with a left-footed strike. It was in the 75th
minute that Argentina all but sealed the win. Tevez played the ball into
Messi, who's shot was parried away by Peru keeper Leao Butrón, but straight
into the path of Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano, who slid the ball
past Butron to make it 3-0. Juan Roman Riquelme scored his second goal of
the match in the 86th minute after a superb break from Argentina from one of
Peru's few attempts at goal to seal a superb win for Basile's team.
Argentina are now due to meet Mexico in the Semi-Finals of the tournament.

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Camara not qualified for FA post - thestar

CONAKRY: Former Liverpool and West Ham striker Abdoulaye Titi Camara has
been disqualified from standing for election to the Guinea Football
Association because officials say he is not experienced enough. The
34-year-old has been told he may not stand for the presidency of the Guinean
federation because he does not fulfil a rule requiring candidates to have at
least four years experience of managing a sports association or football
team, the guineenews.com Web site reported. Camara represented Guinea from
1991 to 2004, including three African Nations Cup Finals tournaments in
1994, 1998 and 2004.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Sunday, July 8

Web Item [ West Ham United ] - Official Club Statement on Craig Bellamy

Official Club Statement on Craig Bellamy
07/07/2007 18:43

Following comments attributed to Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez today,
West Ham United would like to make it clear that Craig Bellamy has not yet
completed a move to Upton Park.

After a fee of £7.5million was agreed between the two clubs, we can confirm
that the Welsh international captain has successfully passed a medical and
agreed personal terms.

However, the deal has been delayed due to a private contractual issue
between Craig Bellamy and Liverpool, which must be resolved before any
transfer can be completed.

The player is due to meet with Liverpool on Monday morning, and we expect to
complete the transfer soon after.

As always, confirmation of any new signing will appear here on whufc.com as
soon as it is formally completed.


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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Saturday, July 7

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - July 7th 2007

West Ham close in on Bellamy deal - BBC Sport
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer

West Ham have moved closer to signing Liverpool's Craig Bellamy after
holding talks with the Wales striker.
BBC Sport understands Bellamy met West Ham officials on Thursday and will
agree a £70,000-a-week contract.
Liverpool and West Ham will now hold fresh negotiations about a fee after an
initial £7m bid was turned down.
Bellamy, 28, is rated at £8m, and a swap with West Ham's Yossi Benayoun has
stalled over Liverpool's valuation of the Israel midfield star.
West Ham would be happy to do a straight exchange between the two players,
but Liverpool believe Benayoun is only rated at around £3.5m.
Bellamy has fallen down the pecking order at Anfield following boss Rafael
Benitez's summer signings of Fernando Torres and Andriy Voronin.
He would help to plug any gap at Upton Park left by the possible departure
of Argentine international Carlos Tevez to Manchester United.
The Wales captain joined Liverpool from Blackburn for £6m in June 2006.
After starting his career with Norwich City, he has also had stints with
Coventry City, Newcastle United, plus a loan spell at Celtic.
Bellamy scored nine goals in 42 appearances for the Reds.
But the addition of £20m signing Torres this week means Liverpool have five
senior strikers on their books - with Bellamy, Peter Crouch, Dirk Kuyt and
fellow new-boy Voronin making up the total.
Asked, at the unveiling of Torres, if he was happy the player was at the
club and part of his plans, Benitez said: "Are you talking about Torres?"
Told Bellamy was the subject, he said: "I'm really happy with Torres here."
He added: "We have some clubs asking about Bellamy and it's a possibility.
"He knows my idea. He is our player at the moment and we will see what
happens in the future.
"It is clear we have new players here and then it could be more difficult
for some of the players.
"The only thing I can say is that Crouch will be staying with us. I have
said to Crouch that he must fight for his position and he will stay with
us."
Striker Djibril Cisse is already close to the exit door as he is set to be
sold to Marseille after a spell on loan at the French club.
Benitez played down a move for Manchester United left-back Gabriel Heinze
and instead insisted he was trying to sign new wingers.
The Reds boss believes he needs to add to the signing of Torres to help his
side challenge for the Premier League title.
"It is clear we need to improve to be contenders. You will ask if we can
fight for the title with Torres. I think we need something more," he stated.
"It is clear we will improve with Fernando but if we can find other players
good enough I think we will have better balance.
"When you talk about the Premier League you talk about nine months and you
need a big squad.
"We have some names. We are especially looking for wingers."

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The plot thickens - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 6th July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Eggert Magnusson has told Manchester United that they will not be signing
Carlos Tevez without his permission.
Magnusson - speaking via whufc.com this evening - has told the Reds that
they will not be signing Tevez imminently, despite a number of media sources
claiming that a deal had been done between Man Utd and Tevez's agent Kia
Joorabchian.

"Carlos Tevez is a registered West Ham United player, contracted to the Club
until June 2010," said Magnusson.

"There is no agreement with West Ham United for Carlos Tevez to leave the
Club and we expect him to return in time for next season's preparations.

"No decision on his future can be reached without the agreement of West Ham
United."

Magnusson's defiant statement follows earlier reports which claimed that
Tevez would be moving to Old Trafford on a two-year loan deal upon his
return from the Copa America, in which he is currently starring.

But the United chairman remains committed to keeping the 23-year-old
striker, who recently confessed that he would be happy to remain a Hammer
next season.

UPDATE, 7.44pm GMT - Kia Joorabchian has responded to Magnusson's statement
by claiming that Tevez has agreed personal terms with Manchester United -
and that West Ham United gave him permission to talk to other clubs.

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

Tevez ready to be Fergie pupil -Sky Sports
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 7 Jul 2007

Carlos Tevez insists he cannot wait to link-up with Sir Alex Ferguson.
Tevez's future looks to be at Old Trafford, even though West Ham are digging
their heels in over the Argentine.
Tevez's representative Kia Joorabchian says he has agreed terms with United
over the move and it seems the transfer will be concluded within the next
few days.
The Argentina striker, currently in Venezuela competing in the Copa America
for his country, has again revealed his delight at the prospect of playing
for Ferguson and United.
"I only know Alex Ferguson from what I see from the outside but I believe he
is a great manager and that I will be a good pupil for him," he told the
Daily Mirror.
"Manchester United is a team with a very offensive, attacking style of play.
This is the system I always desire.
"Ronaldo is one of the best players in the world. I have spoken with him
during the season and I admire him for being a star on the pitch and on the
street."

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Three Steps Backwards? - WHO
Alex V - Sat Jul 7 2007

Nigel Reo-Coker has already gone, and it looks very likely that he will be
joined by two more of our finest players. Is it time to downgrade
expectations for the coming season?

It looks as if the only barrier to Tevez's transfer to Manchester United is
the question mark over who owns the player and deserves the transfer fee -
that wrangle may continue but it certainly looks as if the Argentinian has
played his last game for our club. I think we have to be realistic about
this - he was courted by Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester United.
When those clubs come sniffing, the player is hardly going to stay.

Obviously it's a huge blow to see him go, but we have to remain positive.
Curbishley will bring in two more strikers minimum before the season starts,
and I've no doubt they will be of Premiership quality. So I don't think it's
curtains to our hopes. But Tevez had the quality that made almost anything
possible. Though it should also be said that he had a long period of being
utterly ineffective in matches for us, and may have done so again. We can't
predict with absolute certainty what a future with Tevez might have held.
Obviously to be shot of this strange loan deal and relationship with his
advisors would be a bonus.

More shocking perhaps is the seemingly certain departure of Benayoun. I was
certainly hoping that reports of interest from Liverpool would die down,
that once he returned for pre-season the club would sit him down and patch
up the problem. But reports indicate that he has all but refused to even
consider staying at West Ham, and so the only option has been to haggle with
Liverpool over a price. I must say I don't understand how figures of £4-6
million could be bandied about for one of the best creative midfielders in
the Premier League at the prime of his career - you could spend £20 million
and not find a played of Benayoun's class. And clearly Benayoun has been
left in no doubt of Liverpool's determination to have him - where are the
Premier League when a player is so clearly and obviously tapped up?

How you replace Benayoun I just don't know - I feel this leaves us with a
huge creative hole in the midfield. Over the last two seasons when Benayoun
hasn't played I feel we have looked very predictable - there's nobody else
in the squad that seemed able to find space in attacking areas, and upset
the opposition with their movement and skill. While we were always
struggling to find the right position for Tevez, who looked consistently
awful on the wing, Benayoun managed to play as a winger but have a huge
influence on the game. You don't replace that - you simply don't.

At least with Reo-Cokers sale we have the replacement already at the club,
but I am still very disappointed that one of the best prospects in the
country found the idea of staying at West Ham inconceivable. And I feel a
familiar bitterness towards section of the West Ham support who turned on
him because... I don't really know why they turned on him. Because of his
attitude? For me his attitude was spot on - God forbid we have a player who
believes they can lead a set of players to success. So his on the field
performances were patchy - nobody was complaining when he helped us get to
the FA Cup final the previous season on similar form. Was he the reason we
struggled this season? - not at all, not in the slightest. He was made a
scapegoat for our poor form, and even had the balls to come out fighting
when he was criticised. He leaves with my respect - I would say that I
expect him to win things in his career, but unfortunately a move to Villa
doesn't seem the best way of doing that.

I am utterly tired of the boo-boys though at West Ham. The people who jeered
at young Spector all last season - he kept his head high and kept coming
back for more, well done young man, you showed more resilience than most
players ever will! The people who jeered at Lampard Jnr all through his time
at the club, the people who seemed so disappointed when he scored another
matchwinning goal for us. The people who jeered Carrick at such a young
age - if you look at his career you wonder if that had a big effect on his
development. I know, I'm sounding like a broken record - let it go, why
can't I?

If you want to criticise players, criticise Benayoun and Tevez - both have
shown us as fans a complete lack of respect. Their loyalty was clearly
bought with a chequebook and was wafer thin. That's the way it is in
football these days, and I don't begrudge them their chance to 'move up',
the people who really suffer are the fans who invest their hopes and dreams
in 11 players on the pitch. Maybe it's us who need our heads checked.

Indeed it was the supporters that MADE Tevez in this country - without the
relentless support of the West Ham faithful he would never have played
through his indifferent spell to eventually find form in the shirt, he would
have just sulked and crumbled and moved on as Mascherano did. Manchester
United would have had NO interest in the Tevez we saw at the turn of the
year. It's another of those obvious lessons - with consistent support we see
the best of players.

So where does this all leave West Ham? Well let's not start sobbing,
especially after the miracles of the end of last season. We have a damn good
squad still, with more additions to come. I think you have to say that with
Benayoun and Tevez leaving, it looks to me that Curbs may be that more
likely to hang onto Etherington and Zamora, just in case.

If you look at the playing staff now you would have to say there is a lack
of creativity in the side, and Curbishley will have to look at that
seriously now, because I feel that was one of the things that Pardew failed
to address properly last Summer with disastrous consequences. We definitely
need a wildcard to play at some point I feel - other than a hopefully
in-form Boa Morte I don't see another player able to come up with the
unexpected in the squad. I would be looking seriously at Kewell, even though
he favours the left as well, but despite his terrible record of injuries he
is still a player who can turn a game with a moment of brilliance.

But generally I expect us to be a more resilient, straightforward side this
coming season. I think Curbishley will be looking for two banks of four in
defence and midfield, and make us hard to break down. I think we'll get 0-0s
away from home. In Neill, Upson and Parker we have solid players with good
experience, hopefully in the prime of their careers - I think they give the
whole squad a very different feel, less the plucky upstarts, more the
dependables (hopefully). We need a right-winger, a left-back, another
central midfielder, and two strikers, so there's still plenty to come in the
transfer window.

Expectations now? You'll have yours and I have mine. I expect top 10 still,
Europe as a bonus, anything above relegation as safe progress. Again I'm
looking at Ashton as the key man - IF he could deliver again, we could still
surprise a few this season...

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West Ham threaten Tevez deal - Daily Telegraph
By David Bond
Last Updated: 12:49am BST 07/07/2007

Carlos Tevez's move to Manchester United was plunged into fresh confusion
last night after West Ham issued a statement insisting they control the
Argentine striker.
This extraordinary act of brinkmanship came at the end of another day of
frantic negotiations involving lawyers from West Ham, Manchester United, the
Premier League and Kia Joorabchian, the player's agent and part owner.
Although it is almost certain a deal will eventually be struck which will
allow Tevez to move to Old Trafford - he was said to be undergoing a medical
yesterday - the confusion and controversy which has clouded the player's
short career in England is set to continue for some weeks yet.
With the Premier League insisting that West Ham must conduct the transfer,
the East London side have been forced to publicly assert their rights over
Tevez.
advertisement
That's because West Ham were only granted permission by the Premier League
to continue playing Tevez at the end of last season after they ripped up
third party agreements with Joorabchian and MSI and Just Sport Inc, the two
companies who own the player's economic rights.
In boldly declaring that they hold the right to the player's registration,
as well as three years of a four-year playing contract, West Ham are certain
to now face legal action from Joorabchian.
Despite that West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson said: "Carlos Tevez is a
registered West Ham player, contracted to the club until June 2010. There is
no agreement with West Ham for Carlos Tevez to leave the club and we expect
him to return in time for next season's preparations."
A source for Joorabchian disputed West Ham's claims over the player last
night, insisting that the club only had a one-year playing contract with a
three-year option to renew.
But, while those terms might apply to some of the side agreements ripped up
in April, those claims appear to be at odds with the findings of the
independent commission who fined West Ham £5.5 million for breaking third
party rules. That judgment stated clearly that Tevez had a four-year playing
contract with West Ham.
The Joorabchian camp also claim Magnusson was offered the chance to renew
the club's deal with Tevez for a fee of £40 million three weeks ago but that
he declined, freeing the player to start talking to other clubs.
Joorabchian's lawyers said: "We confirm that Carlos Tevez has, with the
knowledge and permission of West Ham United, been in discussions with other
clubs. Subsequently, personal terms have now been agreed with Manchester
United."
Only once the truth of this tangled contractual web is established by a
judge will United be able to negotiate a deal for Tevez to join them.
But the Premier League have made it clear they will only sign off Tevez's
move to United if West Ham handle the deal and get a slice of any transfer
fee agreed.
Joorabchian may then have to sue for his share of the deal from West Ham.

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Just who does own the rights to Tevez? - The Times
James Ducker
From The Times
July 7, 2007

Manchester United are seething at suggestions that they made an illegal
approach for Carlos Tévez. United were given permission by West Ham United
to speak to Tévez, although Eggert Magnússon, the West Ham chairman,
insisted last night that there was "no agreement" for the Argentina forward
to leave the club. "No decision on his future can be reached without the
agreement of West Ham," Magnússon said.
Nonetheless, United expect to complete the signing of Tévez on a two-year
loan once the player returns from Copa America in Venezuela later this
month. Provided the deal is ratified by the FA Premier League, which has
insisted that any fee for Tévez must be paid to West Ham and not Kia
Joorabchian, the businessman who owns the economic rights to the player, the
23-year-old will undergo a medical having already agreed personal terms
worth £90,000 a week.
With serious doubts still surrounding the transfer, however, The Times
answers the questions that matter:
Who owns Carlos Tévez?
West Ham United hold the player's registration. Kia Joorabchian's Media
Sports Investments firm owns the economic rights to the forward.
Does Tévez's transfer to Manchester United mirror Javier Mascherano's move
to Liverpool in January?
Yes and no.
How do they differ?
Liverpool signed Mascherano on an 18-month loan - at the end of which they
have the option to buy the player permanently - after West Ham ripped up the
player's registration and gave up any rights to him to facilitate the
transfer. Joorabchian, who owns the economic rights to Mascherano as well as
Tévez, was paid £1.5 million by Liverpool as part of the deal.
United have agreed a two-year loan deal for Tévez, with the option to sign
the forward permanently at the end of that period, but West Ham cannot
simply give up the rights to the player in this case to facilitate the
transfer.
Why not?
After the verdict delivered by the independent commission into the transfer
on April 27, when West Ham were fined £5.5 million, the club were given
three choices. Either they stop playing Tévez, they bring the third-party
agreement with Joorabchian into line with FA Premier League rule U18 so
Joorabchian could not materially influence the club's policy, or, finally,
terminate its agreement with Joorabchian on the proviso that they would
continue to behave in that manner and assert their rights over the player.
So what did they do?
Given that Tévez was central to the club's hopes of staying in the
Premiership, West Ham decided to terminate their agreement with Joorabchian
and assert their rights over the player. As part of the agreement, West Ham
would effectively have to answer to the Premier League regarding any future
dealings with Tévez. Even if they wanted to, they could not simply terminate
the player's contract, but the decision left the club open to a legal action
from Joorabchian for breach of contract.
So what has to happen to satisfy the Premier League before Tévez can join
Manchester United?
United must strike a deal with West Ham for Tévez. That means that any fee -
thought to be £6 million over the two years - would have to be paid to West
Ham and not Joorabchian.
But couldn't West Ham just receive a fee from United and then give it all to
Joorabchian as compensation?
No. The Premier League would want to see that a "significant portion" of the
transfer fee remained with West Ham and, given that it has power to
scrutinise transactions over £25,000, that would be easy. Otherwise, it
could be accused of trying to cover up the third-party agreements that
caused so much controversy in the first place.
But what about Joorbachian? Won't he try to sue West Ham if he does not
receive some compensation for a player he holds the economic rights for?
He could, but it is likely that, somewhere down the line, West Ham will pay
him a compensation fee in an out-of-court settlement, although that will
have to be handled carefully.

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Chris Cohen Moves to Forest - West Ham Till I Die
July 7th, 2007

Former West Ham starlet Chris Cohen, who moved to Yeovil after failing to
land a first team spot at Upton Park has moved to Nottingham Forest for a
fee of around half a million pounds. I wonder if we had a sell on clause.

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Beni's Bell goes cheap - The Sun
By PHIL THOMAS
July 07, 2007

WEST HAM finally landed £9million hitman Craig Bellamy last night - after
Liverpool dropped their asking price.
And Kop flop Djibril Cisse is returning to Marseille on a permanent basis
after they increased their offer to £8m.
Bellamy, 27, packed his bags after Liverpool backed down having initially
claimed they wanted £12m for the fiery Welshman.
But they have settled on an initial £7m payment, with a further £2m coming
from various add-ons over time.
The fee is £1m more than the Hammers wanted to pay but they hope to recoup
the lion's share of that by allowing Yossi Benayoun to go to Anfield over
the next few days.
Liverpool have already had a £3.5m bid KO'd but should get the Israeli
midfielder for just over £5m.
West Ham are desperate for strikers with Carlos Tevez off to Manchester
United and were keen to make it a double swoop by landing Bellamy's fellow
Kop outcast Cisse.
But the France international striker, 25, had his heart set on returning to
Marseille, where he spent all of last season on loan.
The chances of that seemed remote when the French outfit offered just
£1.2m - despite having just trousered £17m from selling Franck Ribery to
Bayern Munich.
Yet they dramatically upped their offer last night and Cisse will get his
dream move.
Winger Mark Gonzalez, 22, currently on Copa America duty with Chile, has
also left Liverpool for Spain's Real Betis.
Liverpool chief Rafa Benitez plans to meet keeper Scott Carson for
clear-the-air talks next week. The England Under-21 stopper spent last
season on loan at relegated Charlton.
Carson, 21, wants to cement his place in the England squad as Wigan's former
Reds keeper Chris Kirkland has struggled with injuries.
But he needs reassurances he will not spend the campaign on the bench and
hopes a meeting with Benitez can ease his fears.
Bellamy's departure came in the wake of Liverpool's £21.5m capture of
Spanish striker Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid - a swoop that gave
them five frontline attackers.
p.thomas@the-sun.co.uk

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Hammers OK'd Tevez deal - The Sun
By PAT SHEEHAN
July 07, 2007

CARLOS TEVEZ expects his £38million Manchester United switch to go ahead -
after West Ham gave him written permission to discuss a move.
Worried Premier League chiefs were yesterday blocking United from officially
announcing the deal.
But the Argie striker has been hawked around Premiership clubs for the past
three weeks with the full knowledge of the Hammers - who passed up a £40m
option to buy him.
Tevez's representatives last night confirmed he has agreed personal terms
with United and they hope to finalise the move quickly.
The Premier League said United must deal with the Hammers rather than
directly with the consortium who effectively own Tevez.
But the fact West Ham have given the player permission in writing to talk to
the champions should overcome that insistence.
Last night, the waters were muddied further with the Hammers apparently
saying they would not release Tevez's registration in an apparent attempt to
get a major cut of the deal.
In a statement, club chairman Eggert Magnusson said: "No decision on his
future can be reached without the agreement of West Ham United."
But while the Upton Park outfit will receive a compensation payment for
releasing Tevez's registration, they have been told to forget landing a
major cash windfall.
Although the Eastenders still hold his registration they do not have a
contract of employment with him.
A source close to Tevez, who is contracted to a consortium headed by
businessman Kia Joorabchian, said: "West Ham might be able to get a small
amount of compensation to pass on Tevez's registration, but claims they can
get millions are, quite frankly, laughable.
"The initial agreement with West Ham was for a year loan with an option to
buy Tevez on a three-year contract for £40m when that period expired. The
club did not take up that option.
"It's my understanding that around three weeks ago Kia was given written
permission by the club to discuss a possible move for Carlos."
United had hoped to officially announce the star's capture.
But the Premier League blocked that plan and last night they still had not
given the green light.
However, Joorabchian's lawyers said in a statement: "We confirm that Carlos
Tevez has, with the knowledge and permission of West Ham United, been in
discussions with other clubs.
"Subsequently, personal terms have now been agreed with Manchester United."
Tevez, 23, is understood to have undergone a medical yesterday in Venezuela,
where he is playing for Argentina in the Copa America.
As SunSport revealed yesterday, United boss Alex Ferguson is committing the
club to take Tevez initially for two years, with the option to extend that
by a further three.
United stand to pay out around £28m in wages to Tevez if he stays for five
years - plus £10m in 'service fees' to Joorabchian and a fee yet to be
decided if they sign him permanently after his first two years.
The plan is for Tevez to join United on their pre-season tour to the USA
once the Copa America is over.
Argentina legend Carlos Bilardo, their 1986 World Cup-winning coach, said:
"Tevez and Rooney are still young and they will be like two tanks at the
sharp end of United's attack."

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Half measure as Hammers land Bellamy - thisislondon.co.uk
07.07.07

West Ham, desperate for an injection of pace and firepower up front,
believed they had succeeded at the double after agreeing terms with Craig
Bellamy and matching Djibril Cisse's £8million asking price.
But Cisse dashed West Ham's hopes of a dramatic £16million raid on Anfield
by sticking to his guns and finally landing his dream move home to France
with Marseille.
Hammers completed the signing of Bellamy for an initial £7.5m, rising to
£8m, but they suffered further frustration over Cisse as the France
frontrunner followed Darren Bent's lead by turning his back on Upton Park.
Much as Bent held out for a move to Tottenham, Cisse could not be talked out
of waiting for Marseille to end weeks of haggling and turn last season's
loan deal into a permanent transfer.
The French side, who also signed freed ex-Liverpool midfielder Bolo Zenden,
had angered Anfield chiefs by repeatedly pleading poverty, despite Franck
Ribery's big-money summer switch to Bayern Munich.
With West Ham and Portsmouth both meeting Liverpool's valuation, though,
they finally relented and agreed to a number of staged payments that will
ultimately allow Liverpool to recoup £8m of the then-record £14m they paid
Auxerre three years ago.
Cisse will at last end an unhappy Anfield stay on Monday and clear the way
for Liverpool to step up their efforts to recruit West Ham's Yossi Benayoun
and Manchester United left-back Gabriel Heinze.

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Tevez turmoil - Hammers fight for cut in £60m United move -
thisislondon.co.uk
06.07.07

Carlos Tevez, having agreed a stunning £60million deal with Manchester
United, has been ordered to start pre-season training with West Ham,
sparking a furious row last night.
Sportsmail can today reveal the full cash details of the stunning transfer,
even though West Ham moved to try to block the deal.
A legal battle will now follow between Tevez's owner, businessman Kia
Joorabchian, and Upton Park.
Joorabchian is believed to have "potentially explosive documentation" that
could yet blow apart the Premier League's decision not to dock West Ham
points at the end of last season.
Sources close to the biggest transfer of the summer believe West Ham's
statement to be a tactic designed to ensure that they receive a cut of the
transfer fee and, at the same time, avoid accusations from the Premier
League that their declaration of outright ownership of Tevez back in April
was false. West Ham deny this.
Earlier, details of the transfer emerged:
Tevez, 23, will join United on an initial £6million two-year loan.
If Manchester United then exercise a three-year buy-out option, it will cost
them a further £35million. They will then own the player outright.
Tevez's wages have been agreed for five years - and United will pay him just
under £100,000 a week.
All transfer monies will be paid directly to owner Kia Joorabchian.
The Premier League are determined not to sanction the transfer unless West
Ham are seen to be exercising their rights as the player's employers, and
Hammers last night refused to play ball with United, demanding that the Old
Trafford board negotiate directly for the player.
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson said: "Carlos Tevez is a registered West
Ham player, contracted to the club until June 2010. There is no agreement
with West Ham for Carlos Tevez to leave the club and we expect him to return
in time for next season's preparations.
"No decision on his future can be reached without the agreement of West
Ham."
Champions United are still optimistic that the deal will go through at the
start of next week but officials were privately conceding that they now have
a battle on their hands.
Ironically, Joorabchian tried to buy West Ham last summer, which is why
Tevez was taken to Upton Park.
However, a bitter falling-out has taken place, with West Ham often refusing
to return Joorabchian's calls as he tried to discuss an extension of the
Tevez deal.

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Benayoun swap attempt scotched - ClubCall
20070707 11:10

West Ham's reported offer of Yossi Benayoun in a straight swap for Liverpool
striker Craig Bellamy has been snubbed by Rafa Benitez.
The Hammers have been heavily linked with a swoop for 27-year-old Wales
international Bellamy, whose spell at Anfield is on borrowed time following
the recent arrival of £20million Spanish starlet Fernando Torres at
Liverpool.

However, while West Ham are thought to have offered £7million for Bellamy,
who cost the Reds £6.5million from Blackburn last summer, the Champions
League finalists are looking for around £8-9million.
Fresh reports are claiming that West Ham are now willing to hand over
Israeli international midfielder Benayoun, who has already been linked with
a move to Liverpool this summer, in a straight swap for Bellamy. But
Liverpool boss Benitez has laughed off the bid as he only values Benayoun at
£3.5million, so would want around £5million in cash as well as the player
before a deal could be concluded.

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Hammers battle Magpies for Hutchinson - Daily Mail
Last updated at 17:05pm on 6th July 2007

West Ham and Newcastle are set for a £3million tug-of-war over Canadian star
Atiba Hutchinson.
The FC Copenhagen midfielder played against Manchester United and scored
against Celtic in last season's Champions League and could be the right man
to help the Hammers survive after the expected departure of Carlos Tevez to
Manchester United.
The 24-year-old moved to Sweden to play for Osters IF in 2003 before moving
to Helsingborgs and he joined the side from the Danish capital in 2006.
The club won back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007.

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

Hammers move for Cisse - Sky Sports
By Peter ORourke - Created on 6 Jul 2007

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has confirmed West Ham have made an approach for
Djibril Cisse.
Cisse is surplus to requirements at Anfield and Liverpool are ready to
listen to offers for the French international.
Marseille had been leading the chase to sign Cisse after he spent the whole
of last season on loan at the Stade Velodrome.
However, West Ham could now be ready to pinch the former Auxerre ace from
under the noses of Marseille.
Liverpool are believed to be holding out for a fee in the region of
£9million for their former club record signing and West Ham could outbid
Marseille for Cisse's signature.
West Ham are actively scouring the market for striking reinforcements with
Carlos Tevez seemingly on his way to Manchester United.
The Hammers are also though to be keen on Cisse's Liverpool team-mate Craig
Bellamy.
Bellamy has been pushed down the pecking order by the recent arrival of
Fernando Torres and Benitez confirmed earlier this week he was considering
offers for the Welsh international.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Friday, July 6

Web Item [ West Ham United ] - Chairman makes statement on Tevez

Chairman makes statement on Tevez - WHUFC Official Site
06/07/2007 18:22

The following is an official statement from West Ham United Chairman Eggert
Magnusson...
"Carlos Tevez is a registered West Ham United player, contracted to the Club
until June 2010.

"There is no agreement with West Ham United for Carlos Tevez to leave the
Club and we expect him to return in time for next season's preparations.

"No decision on his future can be reached without the agreement of West Ham
United."


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


http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 6th July 2007

Pre-Academy Development Trials - WHUFC Official Site
06/07/2007 10:42

West Ham United will be staging five separate trials for our Pre-Academy
Development centres soon.

These trials are open to children of school age: reception, year one and
year two, and will be taking place at four different venues in the Essex and
East London area.

The format of the trials will be fun, small-sided games. Goalkeepers are
also welcome, but places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

To view the venues of the trials, simply download the PDF form on the right.
If you wish to book a place on one of the trials, print out the form and
complete all required details before sending to:

Bryan Glover, Academy Development Centres, West Ham United Training Ground,
Saville Road, Chadwell Heath, Essex, RM6 6DT.

Successful applicants will then be sent a confirmation form, detailing your
son's trial date and time.

It is recommended that you make the Academy staff aware of any medical
conditions your son may have. (Please ensure that any children suffering
with Asthma bring their inhalers.)


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Tevez move faces League scrutiny - BBC Sport

Carlos Tevez is keen on a "dream" move to Manchester United - although any
deal will come under heavy Premier League scrutiny before going through.
The League insists the transfer must be "done directly" with West Ham rather
than his agent Kia Joorabchian.
Tevez, 23, was involved in a saga that led to West Ham being fined £5m for
breaching transfer rules, although they crucially escaped a points
deduction.
But he said: "For me, Manchester United will be a sensational destination."
Tevez is still under contract to West Ham for three years, but the League
wants to ensure Joorabchian is not paid any of the fee after previous
questions over the Argentine forward's "ownership".
West Ham insisted they cut all ties with Joorabchian after they were fined
in April.
One possible avenue would be for West Ham to be paid a transfer fee and then
agree a compensation figure with Joorabchian for breaching contracts with
his company, Media Sports Investments (MSI), when the Hammers terminated
third-party agreements following their fine.
It is understood though the League would want a substantial chunk of the
transfer fee to remain at West Ham rather than it all be handed over to MSI
in compensation, otherwise they could be accused of merely covering up the
third-party agreements that have caused so much controversy.
West Ham have been speaking to Manchester United about a transfer, and the
former Boca Juniors and Corinthians player is excited at the prospect.
He said: "I am a player who thrives on challenges. I went to England to
triumph in the Premiership and with West Ham I have achieved that first
stage.
"Now I'm ready to move on to the next stage. To be a member of Sir Alex
Ferguson's squad will be absolutely spectacular.
"My dream is to be an idol in English football and I can achieve this now."

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

West Ham close in on Bellamy deal - BBC Sport
By Phil McNulty
Chief football writer

West Ham have moved closer to signing Liverpool's Craig Bellamy after
holding talks with the Wales striker.
BBC Sport understands Bellamy met West Ham officials on Thursday and will
agree a £70,000-a-week contract.
Liverpool and West Ham will now hold fresh negotiations about a fee after an
initial £7m bid was turned down.
Bellamy, 28, is rated at £8m, and a swap with West Ham's Yossi Benayoun has
stalled over Liverpool's valuation of the Israel midfield star.
West Ham would be happy to do a straight exchange between the two players,
but Liverpool believe Benayoun is only rated at around £3.5m.
Bellamy has fallen down the pecking order at Anfield following boss Rafael
Benitez's summer signings of Fernando Torres and Andriy Voronin.
He would help to plug any gap at Upton Park left by the possible departure
of Argentine international Carlos Tevez to Manchester United.
The Wales captain joined Liverpool from Blackburn for £6m in June 2006.
After starting his career with Norwich City, he has also had stints with
Coventry City, Newcastle United, plus a loan spell at Celtic.
Bellamy scored nine goals in 42 appearances for the Reds.
But the addition of £20m signing Torres this week means Liverpool have five
senior strikers on their books - with Bellamy, Peter Crouch, Dirk Kuyt and
fellow new-boy Voronin making up the total.
Asked, at the unveiling of Torres, if he was happy the player was at the
club and part of his plans, Benitez said: "Are you talking about Torres?"
Told Bellamy was the subject, he said: "I'm really happy with Torres here."
He added: "We have some clubs asking about Bellamy and it's a possibility.
"He knows my idea. He is our player at the moment and we will see what
happens in the future.
"It is clear we have new players here and then it could be more difficult
for some of the players.
"The only thing I can say is that Crouch will be staying with us. I have
said to Crouch that he must fight for his position and he will stay with
us."
Striker Djibril Cisse is already close to the exit door as he is set to be
sold to Marseille after a spell on loan at the French club.
Benitez played down a move for Manchester United left-back Gabriel Heinze
and instead insisted he was trying to sign new wingers.
The Reds boss believes he needs to add to the signing of Torres to help his
side challenge for the Premier League title.
"It is clear we need to improve to be contenders. You will ask if we can
fight for the title with Torres. I think we need something more," he stated.
"It is clear we will improve with Fernando but if we can find other players
good enough I think we will have better balance.
"When you talk about the Premier League you talk about nine months and you
need a big squad.
"We have some names. We are especially looking for wingers."

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Hung out to dry? - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Nigel Reo-Coker has fired a parting shot at his former club by claiming he
had been 'hung out to dry'.
Aston Villa's new £8.5m signing told SkySports tonight that he felt he had
been made a scapegoat for United's dreadful form last season adding that
'whether people want to say I'm being obnoxious, arrogant or just bitter
that's my own personal belief.'

"I'm the sort of person who looks forward rather than backwards," he said.
"A lot of things went on at West Ham that I could spend hours talking about.

"It was an experience which has hardened me but I don't think it was an
experience anyone should be forced to go through, like I was, at the age of
22. But it has made me a stronger character and I will now channel that in
the right way."

Reo-Coker first fell foul of United supporters last Autumn after a dismal
early season run of form which followed a frustrating pre-season in which he
had barely trained due to injury.

His decision to answer the critics by cupping his ear - a brazen display of
arrogance, some would argue - towards supporters in the Bobby Moore Stand
after scoring the winning goal against Manchester United (his only goal last
season) drew further disapproval.

But his position at the club only began to become untenable once his agent,
Tony Finnigan, claimed that he had been receiving hate mail via the club's
training ground at Chadwell Heath - an accusation, made without any
evidence, that was swiftly followed by claims - again from Finnigan - that
his client had been the victim of racist abuse from United fans - an
allegation that once again proved to be unfounded.

By that stage it was quite clear that the odious Finnigan was attempting to
engineer a move on behalf of Reo-Coker, and many supporters were outraged at
his behaviour - even more so because he was, at the time, club captain.

But having failed to lure Reo-Coker's preferred choice, Arsenal, into making
a solid bid during the January transfer window Reo-Coker announced - once
again through Finnigan - that he would stay in East London until the end of
the season. Which, given that at the time he was still contracted to the
club for a further two years, brought further condemnation.

When Alan Curbishley decided to ring the changes following United's narrow
escape from relegation Reo-Coker's days were firmly numbered; his
considerable part in the problems of the previous season had been duly
noted. Shortly after the Hammers' Premier League status was preserved he was
told that he would not be considered for a new contract - and that he had no
future at the club. A transfer request swiftly followed.

Once it was clear that none of the 'big four' were interested in signing him
Finnigan took to the somewhat desperate act of pleading with clubs to come
forward (notably the press release aimed at incoming Newcastle boss Sam
Allardyce), but only one - Aston Villa - showed any real interest - and it
was for them that Reo-Coker signed earlier today.

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

Reo-Coker gone - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Nigel Reo-Coker has joined Aston Villa in an £8.5m switch, it was confirmed
tonight.
Former club captain Reo-Coker - who was unveiled as Villa's first signing of
the summer at a press conference this evening - told the assembled media
pack that he was looking forward to beginning a 'new chapter' in his career,
having agreed personal terms with his new club last night.

"I don't build myself up to be something I'm not. All I want to do is be
successful," he said.

"I enjoyed every minute of my time at West Ham but this is a new beginning
for me. I'm hoping there will be a lot of success here."

Villa had been given a free run to sign Reo-Coker, much to the dismay of the
England under-21 captain who had yearned for a move to one of the Premier
League's 'big four'.

The huge fee - the third highest ever received by the Hammers - represents
something of a coup for the club given that Villa had no serious competition
for his services, and that he had previously made clear his desire to leave
by handing in a transfer request.

Reo-Coker's favoured destination had been Arsenal, but their interest waned
after he fell foul of United supporters following a string of incidents both
on and off the pitch.

The nearest the midfielder will get to the Emirates now is Villa's training
complex at Bodymoor Heath, which he described tonight as 'quite similar to
Arsenal's training ground, which I remember from my youth team days.'

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Blades launch High Court appeal - Sky Sports
By Peter ORourke - Created on 5 Jul 2007

Sheffield United have confirmed they will appeal to the High Court over the
Carlos Tevez affair after failing in their last bid to get reinstated to the
Premier League.
The Blades saw their fight to be reinstated into the Premier League ended
earlier this week after an arbitration panel upheld the verdict not to dock
West Ham any points over the controversial signings of Tevez and Javier
Mascherano.
United have now accepted they will be playing in the Championship next
season, but they are looking for substantial compensation and will go to the
High Court later this month to plead their case.
Bramall Lane chairman Kevin McCabe confirmed the club are going to the High
Court on July 13th to launch their appeal.
"I believe the commercial courts, as we call them, will look at the
ingredients of this case more differently than the independent commission of
the arbitration panel," McCabe told Sky Sports News.
"Yes I suspect it cannot be with a view to reinstatement I think that is
overcome now.
"It is very much now a case against the Premier League rather than before it
was the Premier League and West Ham.
"So if we are able to get leave to take this to the High Court I suspect we
will."
McCabe believes United have a good case for substantial compensation as they
are set to miss out on the windfall of playing in the Premier League.
"I think anyone who looks at it and says one club has been wronged - ie
Sheffield United - the only recourse open now to make that wrong right is
financial," added McCabe.
"If you say the play-off game is worth £60million if you recognise Sheffield
United's average crowd last season was around 31,000 with full boxes, full
restaurants every week, the broadcasting income I suspect you are saying
around £50million.
"We do get a sum of money as parachute payments."
McCabe says the club are now planning for life in the Championship and
mounting a serious bid challenge for promotion.
"Common sense overtakes integrity I am afraid, so we are now working as a
Championship team with Bryan Robson getting his squad sorted out for a real
challenge come next season," concluded McCabe.

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League may block Tevez move - Sky Sports
By Peter ORourke - Created on 5 Jul 2007

The Premier League will block Carlos Tevez's proposed move to Manchester
United if they are not satisfied the transfer fee will go to West Ham.
Widespread reports on Thursday suggested United are leading the chase to
sign the Argentine star and that talks over a move to Old Trafford are well
underway.
Tevez is considering his future, with West Ham United hoping to hang on to
the Argentine after his influential end to last season.
He has suggested he is looking to join a big club over the summer, but any
move to Manchester United could be blocked by the Premier League.
West Ham claim they own the registration of Tevez after the league accepted
in April that the club had terminated all agreements with the player's agent
Kia Joorabchian.
The Premier League are planning to keep an eye on any transfer for Tevez to
ensure that West Ham keep their promise of owning his registration.
A Premier League spokesman said: "As far as we are concerned any deal to
take Carlos Tevez away from West Ham has to be done directly with the club."
Tevez, who is currently away on international duty at the Copa America, has
been linked with a number of clubs including United, Real Madrid and
Internazionale.
The classy forward says he has received no offers for his services as yet,
but that he was flattered by the interest from some of the top clubs in
Europe in him.
"As far as I am aware, I have not received any official offers," Tevez told
Argentine newspaper Clarin.
"Once an offer arrives then we will see. But the fact that Real Madrid,
Internazionale and Manchester United are interested in me makes me proud."

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

Reo-Coker aims swipe at Hammers - Sky Sports
By Peter ORourke - Created on 5 Jul 2007

Nigel Reo-Coker has aimed a parting shot at West Ham after completing his
move to Aston Villa.
The midfielder was unveiled as a Villa player on Thursday after signing a
four-year deal at Villa Park.
Reo-Coker was keen to secure a move from West Ham after falling out with the
club.
The England Under 21 captain handed in a transfer request in May after not
being assurances over his future and he is not happy at how he was treated
at Upton Park.
Reo-Coker claimed he felt unwanted at West Ham since last January and he
admits he was glad to secure his move away from the club.
When asked if he felt he had been made a scapegoat at West Ham, Reo-Coker
said: "If I am being honest yes I do believe that.
"Whether people want to say I'm being obnoxious or arrogant or just being
bitter that's my own personal belief.
"I feel I was hung out to dry." "This is a fresh start for me, a new
beginning and I do not want to dwell on the past.
"I'm the sort of person who looks forward rather than backwards and I could
spend hours talking about what went on at West Ham.
"A lot of things went on at West Ham, a lot of things. It was an experience
which has hardened me but I don't think it was an experience anyone should
be forced to go through, like I was, at the age of 22.
"But it has made me a stronger character and I will now channel that in the
right way."
Reo-Coker also revealed that the influence of Martin O'Neill played a big
part in his decision to join Villa.
"I wanted to play for Martin O'Neill," continued Reo-Coker.
"His record speaks for itself - and as soon as I found out about his
interest, this was the club I wanted to come to.
"I wish it could have been done quicker - but that is football."
O'Neill was delighted to finally land Reo-Coker as his first signing of the
summer
"I am absolutely delighted he is here and I think he is worth waiting
for,"said O'Neill.
"We are very pleased. He is a terrific age and is young and vibrant and
raring to go, and I think he is an exceptional player who will be excellent
for us."

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Tevez eager for United switch - Sky Sports
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 6 Jul 2007

Carlos Tevez has welcomed the news that he is set to be transferred to
Manchester United.
The Red Devils are set to tie up a deal for the 23-year-old, who is
currently in Venezuela competing in the Copa America with Argentina.
The Premier League have already warned United that any deal for Tevez must
include West Ham, rather than the player's agent Kia Joorabchian - but it
would seem a deal is very close.
Tevez, linked with most of Europe's biggest clubs including Real Madrid and
Internazionale, has welcomed the news that he is set to sign for United.
"For me, Manchester United will be a sensational destination and to be a
member of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad will be absolutely spectacular," Tevez
is quoted in the Daily Mail.
"My dream is to be an idol in English football and I can achieve this now.
"I am a player who thrives on challenges. I went to England to triumph in
the Premiership and with West Ham I have achieved that first stage.
"Now I'm ready to move on to the next stage."
Should, as expected, United seal Tevez's signing, then he will become their
fourth signing of the summer following Nani, Anderson and Owen Hargreaves
into Old Trafford.

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Tevez leaves the web even more tangled - The Daily Telegraph
By David Bond
Last Updated: 3:19am BST 06/07/2007

Whether Manchester United's move for Carlos Tevez is settled in the
boardroom or the court room, the Argentina international has again exposed
an alarming malaise at the heart of world football.
From the moment West Ham signed the marauding striker nicknamed "El Apache"
in a spectacular deadline-day deal last August, he has caused nothing but
headaches for the Premier League's chief executive, Richard Scudamore.
To his and the League's credit, they have tried to stand firm on the
imported phenomenon of third-party ownership which allowed West Ham to sign
the player in the first place and has been causing a storm since.
But this is an issue that goes beyond the boundaries of English football.
With the vast majority of top players in Argentina and Brazil owned by
agents and third parties, this is a problem which can only be dealt with
effectively by the game's world governing body, Fifa.
advertisement
In the absence of any hard and fast rules, uncertainty reigns. And it is
this uncertainty which has led to the sorry mess which English football and
the Premier League must attempt to clear up.
Disentangling a transfer which two separate inquiries found to be worthy of
a points deduction for West Ham will be anything but straightforward. But
with Manchester United agreeing a deal with Tevez's third party owners, the
end game is at last in sight.
For the transfer to go through, the Premier League made it clear last night
that any fee must be paid to West Ham. That is because they hold Tevez's
registration, having ripped up third-party agreements with the player's
agent and part owner Kia Joorabchian on April 27.
West Ham took that drastic step after an independent commission fined them
£5.5 million for breaking the Premier League's rules on third-party
ownership.
The club were told that they had to drop the player, amend the third-party
agreements to the League's satisfaction or terminate them. Failure to do so
would have prevented them from using Tevez in their last three games of the
season.
Choosing the latter allowed Tevez to play a key role in West Ham's
Premiership survival but sparked a storm which is still raging more than two
months later.
Sheffield United, who were relegated on the last day of the season, have
been fighting for a new inquiry to be held into the controversy. They have
argued that no contract can be simply torn up, meaning the offending
third-party agreements which led to West Ham's fine are still in place.
This week an arbitration panel agreed with them and argued that West Ham
should have been deducted points over the scandal, but eventually dismissed
their call for a new commission to be set up arguing that they did not have
the remit to make that decision.
Now Sheffield United have been given a date for a High Court hearing, when
they will argue they should be granted leave to appeal against that
arbitration verdict on the grounds that the panel made an error in law.
"We are going to the High Court to appeal, and that date is July 13," said
chairman Kevin McCabe. "I still believe Sheffield United have a legal case
that can now be taken from what I loosely term the sporting courts to the
commercial courts. Where that will take us I really don't know."
There can be little doubt that Sheffield United's case will be boosted by
the agreement now in place in principle between Tevez's owners and
Manchester United.

What more proof does anyone need that Kia Joorabchian and the two companies
registered in the British Virgin Islands which own Tevez's economic rights
control the player's destiny?
United will be confident that they can force a deal through with West Ham
and the League. They will point to the agreement Liverpool reached with
Joorabchian and the League to secure the services of Javier Mascherano in
January.
But so much has happened since then. For a start, we have had two separate
hearings into the case which have clearly established that West Ham, and not
Joorabchian, have a three-year playing contract with the player and hold his
registration.
advertisement
In the eyes of the League, only one organisation can agree to release him
from those obligations: West Ham.
However, if only this story were that simple. The Tevez side will say West
Ham's rights to the player lapsed the moment they ripped up those side
agreements.
West Ham have been waiting for a legal challenge from Joorabchian over that
decision to unilaterally terminate the third-party deals but he has not
acted.
Faced with the prospect of losing a player they want to keep, West Ham could
sue Joorabchian for trying to move Tevez to another club when the original
disciplinary commission acknowledged their argument that the third-party
agreements were unenforceable. But they also acknowledge that keeping a
player who wants to leave is a tall order, regardless of the contractual
situation.
Unsatisfactory as it might sound, doing a deal which satisfies Tevez, United
and the League may be the only way to draw a line under an affair which has
brought the game's inadequate and outdated rule book sharply into focus.

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Irons set to seal £9m Bellamy deal - TeamTalk

West Ham have reportedly agreed a £9million deal for Liverpool striker Craig
Bellamy, who is set to sign a four-year contract at Upton Park.
Bellamy has slipped down the Anfield pecking order following the arrival of
Fernando Torres from Atletico Madrid and has been linked with a host of
Premier League clubs, as well as Italian sides Juventus and Roma.
However, the Daily Mirror claims Bellamy has agreed to join the Hammers
after being offered a £70,000-a-week, four-year deal.
The Wales hitman moved to Liverpool from Blackburn in a £6.5million deal
last summer and scored seven goals, the last of which came against Barcelona
in the Nou Camp.
However, it became clear Bellamy did not feature in Rafael Benitez's
long-term plans when he was an unused substitute in the Champions League
final loss to AC Milan.

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Premier League Rumour Mill: Hammers snap up Bellamy in £25m deal
06.07.07

West Ham have offered Liverpool bad boy Craig Bellamy an astonishing
£4million-a-year contract to move to Upton Park.
Chairman Eggert Magnusson has moved quickly to find a replacement for Carlos
Tevez, who appears destined for Manchester United.
But the Hammers will aim to recoup some of the £9m and £80,000-a-week
wages - a total outlay of £25m over four years - by playing hardball over
the Argentine's transfer to Old Trafford.
Magnusson has been assured by the Premier League that West Ham are due part
of the fee that the champions will pay for Tevez.
Sir Alex Ferguson looks set to take the striker on a two-year loan deal
costing £10m before having the option to buy the player for a further
£10-15m.
Kia Joorabchian, who claims to still part-own Tevez despite assurances to
the Premier League that his third-party agreement with the Hammers had been
cancelled, will earn as much as £6m from the deal.
"At the moment, no agreement on the transfer of Carlos Tevez has been
agreed," a West Ham spokesman said.
It seems inevitable, though, that the player will end up at Old Trafford by
the end of next week after he admitted it was a move he had dreamed about.
"For me, Manchester United will be a sensational destination and to be a
member of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad will be absolutely spectacular," he
said.
"My dream is to be an idol in English football and I can achieve this now."
But West Ham will be heartened by the attitude of the Premier League, who
fined the club £5.5m last season for breaching transfer regulations.
"As far as we are concerned any deal to take Carlos Tevez away from West Ham
has to be done directly with the club," insisted Premier League spokesman
Dan Johnson.
Tevez starred again for his country last night as Javier Mascherano scored
the crucial goal 12 minutes from the end to help Argentina book a
quarter-final Copa America clash with Peru courtesy of a 1-0 victory over
Paraguay.
Mascherano's Liverpool team-mate Bellamy missed the start of pre-season
training yesterday after being told by manager Rafael Benitez that he no
longer figured in his plans.
Two of his former clubs - Newcastle, Blackburn - along with Aston Villa,
were all thought to be in the hunt for the Welsh captain, but the Hammers'
amazing offer has trumped them all.
Bellamy has the pace to frighten any defence in Europe and one of his best
displays came in the 2-1 away win in Barcelona last season when the striker
and John Arne Riise scored.
However, his nasty side came out before that Champions League match when he
swung a golf club at Riise during an argument at a karaoke night.
The Daily Star also claims West Ham striker Bobby Zamora will not leave
Upton Park after all but will instead sign a new £56,000-a-week deal.
The 26-year-old former Tottenham striker only signed his current
£28,000-a-week deal a year ago but his 11 goals last season have convinced
manager Alan Curbishley to keep him on.

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Leicester to sign winger Newton - BBC Sport
Leicester are set to sign former West Ham winger Shaun Newton on Friday,
reports BBC Radio Leicester.
The 31 year-old spent two months on loan at the Walkers Stadium and has
agreed a one year contract after being released at Upton Park.
Newton started his career at Charlton before joining Wolves in 2001 for
£850,000 and staying there until 2005 before signing for West Ham.
He will become Martin Allen's 10th signing of the summer.

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Town chief blasts Wright - football.co.uk
Friday Jul 06 2007 11:58

Ipswich chairman David Sheepshanks has slammed goalkeeper Richard Wright for
deciding against rejoining Town to head to West Ham United.
The 29-year-old is likely to be back-up to Robert Green at Upton Park,
having shunned the chance to head home to Portman Road, where he started his
career, following his release by Everton.
Sheepshanks told the Evening Star: "We are disappointed Richard chose not to
join us, but recognise that extra money for sitting on the bench at Upton
Park must be more appealing than the opportunity to feature regularly for
your home town team.
"There has been a consideration to bring in a senior goalkeeper, but we are
very fortunate to have two of the brightest young keepers in the country on
our staff already."
Meanwhile, the Town supremo has also confirmed that his club are still in
talks with Blackburn Rovers about striker Francis Jeffers.
He added: "We are determined to get a deal done and supporters should know
that we are still trying.
"We are still in discussions with Blackburn Rovers as we want to buy Francis
Jeffers, but negotiations are proving to be protracted."

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West Ham tell Liverpool: Pay £8m for Yossi Benayoun - Liverpool Echo
Jul 6 2007 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo

WEST HAM have slapped a staggering £8m valuation on Yossi Benayoun's head,
in a bid to snatch Craig Bellamy from Anfield on the cheap.
Liverpool gave permission for the Welsh international striker to speak to
The Hammers last night and he quickly agreed a remarkable £70,000 a week
contract.
But after the Reds rejected an initial cash bid of £7m, the Hammers tried to
offer a straight swap deal for their Israeli international skipper.
With Liverpool holding out for £8m for Bellamy, the cheeky Hammers instantly
valued Benayoun at that figure and suggested an exchange.
But Liverpool only value Benayoun at around half that price.
Further talks will take place today - and Djibril Cisse's name may now come
into the equation as well.
The Hammers want to add the Frenchman to their squad with Bellamy.
Liverpool want a fee in the region of £9m for a player who cost an Anfield
club record of £14m when he arrived from Auxerre three years ago.
Marseille are also bidding to make Cisse's loan spell in France permanent,
while Portsmouth have also made an enquiry.
Bellamy did not report back to Melwood yesterday with the rest of Liverpool's
international contingent.
But unless West Ham can reach agreement quickly he may have to return to
training with a squad he is clearly surplus to.
The Reds kick off their pre-season schedule at Wrexham tomorrow (kick-off
3pm), and while players like Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher are unlikely
to figure, Rafa Benitez will take a mix of senior stars and youngsters to
the Racecourse.
The only players not now back in training at Melwood are Harry Kewell, Mark
Gonzalez, Javier Mascherano and Emiliano Insua, who remain on international
duty for their respective countries, while Fernando Torres will not report
for training until July 11.
Benitez said yesterday: "All of the internationals will start training
today. We will see how they are, but normally you could expect them to play
next week against Crewe.
"We only had five senior players back last week. We've had the young
players, and you can see the commitment in them.
"Sometimes you have to tell them to calm down because they tackle hard and
fight for each ball."

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