Thursday, August 6

Daily WHUFC News - 6th August 2009

Bishop's Stortford 1-0 Reserves
A West Ham United XI continued their pre-season preparations with a visit to
Woodside Park
05.08.2009

Pre-season friendly
Bishop's Stortford v West Ham United XI
Woodside Park
Wednesday 5 August 2009
7.30pm
Referee: Chris O'Donnell

Final score - Bishop's Stortford 1-0 West Ham United XI

Alex Dyer will come away from tonight's game knowing he has some things to
work on before the new season but, equally, the reserve team manager will
know he still has four weeks until his team open their Barclays Premier
Reserve League South campaign.

Full marks to Bishop's Stortford, who played some neat football and
withstood West Ham's second half performance to nick a late winner.

92 mins - Edgar cuts inside from the right and shoots from long-range, but
his effort is straight at Eyre, who stops the ball with ease. Seconds later,
the final whistle is blown to cheers from the home supporters.

91 mins - We're into time added on for stoppages. We've had a shed load of
substitutions, so there could be a couple of extra minutes.

90 mins - We're into the final minute of the 90 and Hines forces Eyre into a
fine save with a snapshot on the turn. The goalkeeper did well to turn the
ball aside at the near post. The resulting corner is deep, but N'Gala is
penalised for a foul. Is that West Ham's last chance gone?

88 mins - I doubt there is going to be a lot of added-time, so West Ham are
going to have to hit back very quickly. They are trying their best, forcing
a throw-in deep inside the home half.

87 mins - GOAL! Substitute Jackman heads the ball in at the near-post from
Wright's corner to give the ten-men the lead. Angus comes on for Goodacre
straight after the goal.

86 mins - It actually looks like the hosts want to bring on another
replacement, but he's not ready yet. I can see him pulling on his red
shorts. Meanwhile, Zola slides in to concede a corner. Before they take it,

84 mins - Stortford are down to ten men for the remainder of the game as No5
Goodacre has been forced off with an injury.

83 mins - The impressive goes on a slalom run through the West Ham defence,
dancing around two challenges before finally being crowded out. He looks
like a decent player, the Stortford No7. Meanwhile, the star names are
slowly disappearing into the night. Sheringham and Lambert have both headed
home, as have Stimson and Robson.

81 mins - We're into the closing stages here at Woodside Park and neither
side looks like breaking the deadlock. West Ham have definitely improved
since the break, but they have seldom threatened Eyre's goal. Encouragingly,
however, the Hammers have not really looked like conceding either.

79 mins - Adam Bolle replaces Stortford striker McKenzie for the final
eleven minutes.

78 mins - Edgar loses the ball to Jackman. The substitute skips past Payne,
who cynically pulls him back, earning a stern ticking off from the referee.
The resulting free-kick comes to nothing.

76 mins - Kurucz is out bravely to dive at the feet of Jackman. That was a
decent chance for Stortford, who had three men in advanced positions against
only two defenders.

74 mins - A sixth change for West Ham. Savio is the man to be replaced, with
Hungarian Matyas Magos the man to join the fray.

70 mins - Another change for the home team as Richard Priest replaces Ben
Bowditch.

67 mins - Stortford win a corner off N'Gala. Before it is taken, Ben Nunn
replaces right-back Jones. Seconds later, Jackman has a dip and Spence
deflects the ball over the crossbar and out of the stadium. The England U19
defender gets a pat on the back from Kurucz for his bravery.

66 mins - Zola switches the play to Payne, who passes on to Kearns, who cuts
inside before finding Edgar. The forward has a go from long-range, but Eyre
gathers.

65 mins - Kearns and Zola have both looked good since coming on, while Payne
has picked up his game since the interval and is now dictating things in the
midfield. All West Ham need is a goal as reward for their efforts.

63 mins - West Ham have really picked their collective game up here. Kearns
comes close again, but Eyre palms aside his well-struck shot from the left
edge of the area. Stortford make a second change, replacing Nicholls with
No18 Reece Prestedge.

62 mins - Kearns nearly completes a superb move involving Zola and Savio,
but he cannot beat Wright. Moments later, Savio fizzes a low shot in from 25
yards, but it is too close to Eyre.

59 mins - That was Sheringham's last involvement as he is replaced by Duane
Jackman. Tonight's attendance is 751.

58 mins - A superb header from Zola clears the danger from under his own
crossbar after Sheringham had fed Harris and the midfielder had driven the
ball into the six-yard box.

55 mins - A decent chance for Harris, but Savio works back well and
half-blocks the midfielder's effort and Kurucz gathers. The pace of the game
has really picked up here. West Ham break, but Hines cannot beat Eyre from a
narrow angle. The changes have certainly livened things up.

53 mins - A quick throw from Kurucz finds Hines, who flicks the ball to
Savio. The winger repays the favour, but Hines can only divert his shot
narrowly over the top.

52 mins - Zola lifts a lovely pass over the Stortford defence for Hines, but
the striker's shot bends just wide of the far post.

49 mins - Zola is at left-back, with Spence and N'Gala in the centre of
defence and Brookes on the right. The midfield three are Kearns, Payne and
Grasser, with Edgar, Hines and Savio up front.

46 mins - Five changes for West Ham at the break. Fry, Eyjolfsson, Lee,
Quashie and Nouble are the men to go off, with Zola, Brookes, Grasser,
Kearns and Edgar the replacements.

Half-time - Bishop's Stortford 0-0 West Ham United XI

46 mins - We're into added-time and referee O'Donnell blows the whistle
after just 15 seconds.

44 mins - Into the final minute of the half and nothing much is happening so
far. Will Alex Dyer be tempted to make any changes at half-time? West Ham
will certainly need to improve if they are going to score a victory this
evening.

41 mins - Nearly a superb goal from the home side. Eyre's drilled clearance
was flicked on acrobatically by Nicholls to McKenzie, who laid the ball back
into the winger's path, but his pass was just too strong and N'Gala was able
to clear.

40 mins - Jones curls in a delicious cross from the right touchline that has
Kurucz rushing to gather, which he does at the second attempt.

38 mins - Good football from Quashie, Nouble and Spence ends with Hines
forcing another corner. Savio takes the kick but it is too short and easily
headed out for a throw-in.

37 mins - Close! Danny Harris outjumps his marker, but can only head
Wright's near-post cross wide of the target.

36 mins - This stadium is a plane-spotter's paradise, being situated right
next to Stansted Airport.

35 mins - The young central defensive pairing of N'Gala and Eyjolfsson have
looked fairly comfortable so far. While the home side have kept the ball
fairly well, they have not created a huge amount.

34 mins - Savio gives the ball away and slides in to win it back, but his
tackle catches Jones.

32 mins - To be fair to Stortford, they've more than held their own here.
Things are shaping up nicely for them ahead of their league campaign.

29 mins - West Ham are definitely seeing more of the ball now, with the
experienced Quashie controlling the game to some extent. However, the front
three need to show more movement if they are going to breach the home
rearguard.

27 mins - Quashie finds Hines with a lovely lofted pass. The Jamaican picks
the ball up and looks up, but his cross is too far in front of both Nouble
and Payne. Hines and Savio have switched back again, with Savio on the left.

23 mins - Sheringham shoots from 25 yards, but his low effort is easily
gathered by the diving Kurucz.

22 mins - A quick throw-in from Spence finds Nouble, who uses his strength
to turn away from Paul Goodacre. He feigns to shoot twice before curling a
shot that flies high and wide of the far post. Good effort, though, from the
new signing from Chelsea.

20 mins - A neat bit of skills takes Harris past Fry, but his cross is too
close to Kurucz. Savio immediately breaks and wins a corner, which is headed
clear.

18 mins - Hines goes down in the box under a challenge from Jones, but the
referee waves away his protests and gives a goal kick. We're still waiting
for the first real chance here nearly 20 minutes in.

17 mins - Savio and Hines have swapped flanks in an effort to find an
opening. Savio looks especially fetching in his bright blue boots. Stortford
nearly create a decent chance, but Danny Harris' header is too far in front
of McKenzie and Eyjolfsson is able to poke the ball back to Kurucz.

15 mins - The Hammers are playing some neat keep-ball but it is all inside
their own half. Quashie, Lee and Payne are working hard to find some space,
but Stortford are matching them for effort and closing down the space well.

14 mins - West Ham are beginning to settle here. Fry curls a pass down the
left flank for Savio to chase. Jones appears to knock the ball out for a
corner, but the referee gives a goal kick.

12 mins - Savio finds Hines wide on the right with a beautiful ball with the
outside of his left foot, but the Jamaican squanders possession.

11 mins - Alex Dyer is standing at the side of his dugout barking out
instructions to his players. He always has a real purpose about him, the
reserve team manager.

8 mins - The home side can certainly play a bit. A neat passing move
involving left-back Mark Wright and Ashley Nicholls is only ended by the
alert Jordan Spence. West Ham are struggling to maintain possession here.
Another dangerous cross is hacked clear by N'Gala.

7 mins - Stortford come forward again like a big red wave, but the final
ball is in front of McKenzie and curls out for a goal kick.

5 mins - It's like a who's who here at Woodside Park. Here's Teddy
Sheringham! On the pitch, Savio wins the game's first corner. The German
takes, but Lai Bass Lette Jallow heads clear. Is that the best name in
football? Probably.

4 mins - Two famous Marks enter the stand in former Hammer Robson and
Gillingham manager Stimson. Both arrive just in time to see Ben Bowditch
sidefoot the ball narrowly over from 20 yards following a good build-up from
the hosts.

2 mins - West Ham force a succession of throw-ins down the right flank
before working the ball to the far side of the pitch where Savio skips
around a tackle before being denied by goalkeeper Eyre.

1 min - Bang on time, we're off and running as Bishop's Stortford kick-off.

7.28pm - West Ham are in their new away kit, while Stortford are in all red.
The Hammers go through a few last-minute exercises before kick-off. It's
obviously the night for Wycombe managers past and present here tonight as
Paul Lambert has joined Taylor in the stand. The former UEFA Champions
League winner is now manager of League One Colchester United.

7.26pm - The floodlights have been switched on here, but it's a nice bright
evening, so they will not come into effect until the second half, I
shouldn't think. West Ham's substitutes are heading for the bench and here
come the two teams.

7.23pm - Former England winger and caretaker manager Peter Taylor is also in
the stands. I wonder which West Ham players he is interested in taking on
loan to League One new boys Wycombe Wanderers.

7.21pm - West Ham's players head back for the away dressing room. Savio and
Quashie sign a couple of autographs before heading down the tunnel. Zola and
Nani are taking their seats in the Directors Box.

7.15pm - It is a very pleasant evening here on the Essex/Hertfordshire
border. Both sets of players are out warming up on what looks like a very
good playing surface. A few big names have turned out to watch proceedings,
with technical director Gianluca Nani and manager Gianfranco Zola among
those in attendance.

Good evening and welcome to a warm and sunny Woodside Park, home of Bishop's
Stortford and the venue for West Ham United's Barclays Premier Reserve
League South home fixtures this coming season.

West Ham have named a strong team for tonight's reserve team friendly at
Bishop's Stortford. Savio, Frank Nouble and Zavon Hines will form a potent
attacking trio, while Scotland international Nigel Quashie will captain the
side from the centre of midfield.

Hungary Under-21 goalkeeper Peter Kurucz will be between the sticks, with
Jordan Spence, Matt Fry, Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson and Bondz N'Gala in front of
him. Quashie's midfield colleagues will be Olly Lee and Josh Payne.

For Bishop's Stortford, who begin their Blue Square South campaign with the
visit of Newport County on Saturday, field former Hammer Teddy Sheringham's
son Charlie up front. Among the hosts' substitutes is Stevland Angus, who
won the FA Youth Cup with West Ham in 1999.

West Ham United XI: Kurucz, Spence, Eyjolfsson (Brookes 46), N'Gala, Fry
(Zola 46), Lee (Kearns 46), Quashie (Grasser 46), Payne, Hines, Nouble
(Edgar 46), Savio (Magos 74)
Subs: Stech

Bishop's Stortford: Eyre, Jones (Nunn 67), Wright, Lette Jallow, Goodacre
(Angus 87), Champion, Harris, Bowditch (Priest 70), McKenzie (Bolle 79),
Sheringham (Jackman 59), Nicholls (Prestedge 63)
Subs: Hussein, Jones

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TC and Galey on WHUTV
WHUFC.com
Tony Cottee and Tony Gale have shared their Chinese experiences with the
WHUTV cameras
05.08.2009

Tony Cottee and Tony Gale were both with the West Ham United travelling
party that spent a week in Beijing for the Barclays Asia trophy and have
reported back on their trip to WHUTV.

The duo were in China in official roles with the club and as well as
catching all of the match action they helped out with some coaching sessions
with the local community. Now safely back in the more familiar surroundings
of east London, the pair reflected on the highs and lows of their trip and
how their thoughts are with Luis Boa Morte after his knee injury eleven
minutes into the opening game with Tottenham Hotspur.

"For the first game against Tottenham Hotspur, I think it was hard for
people back home to appreciate just how hot and humid it was out there,"
former Hammer of the Year Cottee told WHUTV.

"The big disappoint from that was the injury to Luis Boa Morte. We both wish
him a speedy recovery but we expect it will be the end of the year as the
diagnosis for the injury."

"Aside from the injury, though, there were some real plus points - the
return of Danny Gabbidon from injury and the number of Acadamey players we
had on the pitch in the second game."

Gale echoed the sentiments of the former England international by passing on
his best wishes to the Portuguese midfielder.

"I have to say that Luis was brilliant about it. It's a cruciate problem and
he will probably be out until the New Year, but he had a smile on his face
all the way through. All the fans that were in the hotel gave him a standing
ovation.

"I'm really sad that it happened to him as he was a player that was
struggling for form at the beginning of last season but he really came to
the fore at the end of it. He went through it and really came good at the
end. He was looking forward to it."

Looking forward to the weekend's game with Napoli, Gale, who played for West
Ham 359 times during a ten-year stay, believes the China trip provided
further reason for optimism about the club's promising youngsters.

"The Academy players have always been our strength and they're not just
there to make up the numbers - they are some of our better players. Mark
Noble and Jack Collison were looking fit, James Tomkins was good again as
well as Junior Stanislas and Josh Payne.

During his playing days in the claret and blue, Gale was a composed and
stylish central defender and it was the sight of another centre-half that
was back out on the pitch that really caught his eye.

"All the boys were looking good but Danny Gabbidon was excellent and he
scored in the second game against Beijing Guoan from a corner. Aside from
that, the last game I saw him play was at Grays and he played extremely well
there.

"That means we've got four really good central defenders in James Tomkins,
James Collins, Matthew Upson and Danny. So it's four good experienced
central defenders for the start of the season."

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Trio called up for U21s
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins will be joined by two familiar faces in the England Under-21
squad next week
05.08.2009

James Tomkins, Junior Stanislas and Freddie Sears have all been called up to
the England Under-21 squad for the friendly in Holland next Tuesday.

Tomkins was part of Stuart Pearce's U21 squad that made it to the finals of
the UEFA European Under-21 tournament in Sweden in June. But with the likes
of Mark Noble now too old to be considered for U21 duty, Pearce has handed
five youngsters, including Stanislas and Sears, their first call-up for the
game in Groningen.

"It's very early in the calendar but this is a fantastic double-header for
the Under-21s and then the seniors," Pearce told the FA.com. "We're taking a
few players that have had the experience of a summer tournament, that will
stand us in good stead, but we have one or two new faces coming into the
squad that will have to get their feet under the table very quickly".

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Bruce begins talks to sign Neill
BBC.co.uk

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has revealed he is in preliminary talks to
sign ex-West Ham defender Lucas Neill. The 31-year-old Australia captain has
been a free agent since his contract with the Hammers expired in June. "We
have had a little conversation to see where Lucas is at," Bruce confirmed.
"We will see where he is, where his mind is at and go from there. "He is
experienced, has played in the Premier League and is on a free transfer, so
that's the attraction." Neill joined West Ham from Blackburn - turning down
Liverpool in the process - in January 2007 and was made skipper of the Upton
Park club that summer. After making 89 appearances for the Londoners, and
scoring one goal, he rejected the offer of a new one-year contract in June.
At the time Neill's agent said his player "didn't feel it reflected his
value as a player and captain".
Should Neill sign for the Black Cats he would be Bruce's second major
acquisition following the £10m arrival of Darren Bent from Tottenham on
Tuesday.

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Bruce in for Neill?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 5th August 2009
By: Staff Writer

Sky Sports are reporting that Sunderland have entered the (one-horse) race
to sign Lucas Neill. Mackems boss Steve Bruce is reported to have made an
eleventh hour bid to snatch the Australian full-back from under the noses of
West Ham, for whom Neill had been expected to re-sign following negotiations
earlier this week. The reports are very much unconfirmed at this stage but
it is clear that Neill remains unhappy with United's tabled one-year
extension offer. Scott Duxbury, talking to KUMB.com about Neill's future
recently said: "He got an Eggert Magnusson contract and so he wanted another
Eggert Magnusson contract, but that doesn't happen. "Lucas has been given a
contract that would make him one of our top earners, certainly slightly more
than the established senior players that you see every week. "But that's
still there for him to accept."
Should Neill join Sunderland he would once again join up with former Hammers
George McCartney and Anton Ferdinand, both of whom were sold to the Black
Cats a year ago. Calum Davenport, now back with the Hammers also spent time
on loan there last season. More on this story as it happens.

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Bayern quash Luca Toni talk
442 Staff - Yesterday, 16:27
FourFourTwo.com

Bayern Munich have insisted that striker Luca Toni will not be joining West
Ham United on loan. The 32-year-old has netted 38 league goals in just 56
outings for the German giants since arriving in 2007, having bagged 47 and
50 league goals for previous clubs Fiorentina and Palermo respectively. The
prolific Italian - who has not been quite as lethal in front of goal for his
country - is believed to be concerned about his first-team opportunities at
the Allianz Arena in 2009/10 following the arrival of new coach Louis van
Gaal and strikers Mario Gomez and Ivica Olic. And as a result, Tottenham
Hotspur and West Ham have been linked with a move for the front-man, with
Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola also being tipped to land Barcelona forward
Eidur Gudjohnsen and Inter Milan attacker Mario Balotelli as he attempts to
bolster his forward line. However, Bayern director of sport Christian
Nerlinger has since moved to quash talk of Toni departing for pastures new,
stating there have been no enquiries. "There is no bid regarding Luca Toni.
And we are not really considering his future," he told Munchener Merkur.

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West Ham United on edge as owner Straumur meets creditors
The collapsed Icelandic bank that owns the Upton Park club could be forced
into liquidation if it fails to convince creditors of a compromise today
Matt Scott
The Guardian, Thursday 6 August 2009

West Ham United could soon find themselves under the stewardship of their
third owner in six months if current owner Straumur fails to appease
creditors. West Ham United face an uncertain few weeks unless their bankrupt
owner, Straumur, can convince creditors at a meeting in Reykjavik today to
continue to support it.

Under plans to be outlined by Straumur executives, assets at the collapsed
Icelandic bank, which now owns 70% of West Ham through CB Holding, will be
managed for future sale under a "composition agreement". For that to happen,
new equity in Straumur will be issued and key creditors will be asked to
accept those shares in place of their debts in the bank. But executives
admit the new company would be "cash-flow negative for three or four years"
and if more than 30% of creditors by number or value reject the proposal,
Straumur will be put into liquidation.

"If the attempt to seek a composition agreement is unsuccessful the
winding-up committee is obliged to request that the district court place
Straumur's estate into bankruptcy proceedings," Hordur Felix Hardarson, who
has been managing the process, told creditors at a previous meeting. That
would force a fire-sale of assets such as West Ham, meaning that in an
uncertain market the club would have a third owner in less than six months.
Straumur's chief executive, Ottar Palsson, has urged creditors not to fold
the firm. "I feel there is only one option for creditors, and that is a
managed workout," he said. "It is likely to lead to far better results for
creditors."

Although Straumur has presented today's meeting as a formality, several
major creditors yesterday told Digger they would not back any plans before
seeing the details.

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Yank Eyes Hammers
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today

WEST HAM are set to go Yankee Doodle Dandy with US tycoon Clark Hunt
emerging as a shock contender in a £120million buyout. SunSport can reveal
talks have started with Hammers owners, CB Holding, who have been looking to
sell ever since they took control from debt-ridden chief Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson in June. Hunt is a football nut and owns two Major League Soccer
teams - champions Colombus Crew, who hosted West Ham in a friendly last
summer, and FC Dallas. CB Holding is 70 per cent owned by Icelandic bank
Straumur plus several other financial institutions and all are suffering in
the credit crunch. The company took West Ham as part-payment of £350m debts
built up by Gudmundsson. CB Holding produced a two-year plan to stabilise
West Ham but in June, Straumur spokesman Georg Andersen, said: "Every club
is for sale at the right price. With the market right now it will be
difficult to find the right value. "I'm not going to pretend we are going to
own the club for ever."
West Ham were effectively valued at £105m when CB took over. And a price of
around £120m would mean more security for boss Gianfranco Zola and the
squad. Hunt, 44, inherited his love of football from his late father, Lamar,
a Texas billionaire who founded the MLS in 1993 and backed America's World
Cup bid a year later.

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Hammers Under Offer From US Soccer Tycoon?
West Ham Till I Die

Today's Sun reports that West Ham may be the subject of a bid by US
businessman Clark Hunt, who owns the franchises for FC Dallas and the
Columbus Crew.

WEST HAM are set to go Yankee Doodle Dandy with US tycoon Clark Hunt
emerging as a shock contender in a £120million buyout. SunSport can reveal
talks have started with Hammers owners, CB Holding, who have been looking to
sell ever since they took control from debt-ridden chief Bjorgolfur
Gudmundsson in June. Hunt is a football nut and owns two Major League Soccer
teams - champions Colombus Crew, who hosted West Ham in a friendly last
summer, and FC Dallas. CB Holding is 70 per cent owned by Icelandic bank
Straumur plus several other financial institutions and all are suffering in
the credit crunch. The company took West Ham as part-payment of £350m debts
built up by Gudmundsson. CB Holding produced a two-year plan to stabilise
West Ham but in June, Straumur spokesman Georg Andersen, said: "Every club
is for sale at the right price. With the market right now it will be
difficult to find the right value. "I'm not going to pretend we are going to
own the club for ever."
West Ham were effectively valued at £105m when CB took over. And a price of
around £120m would mean more security for boss Gianfranco Zola and the
squad. Hunt, 44, inherited his love of football from his late father, Lamar,
a Texas billionaire who founded the MLS in 1993 and backed America's World
Cup bid a year later.

This news comes as creditors of Straumur meet today to decide whether to
support its rescue plans or place it in administration. If they choose the
latter course of action, West Ham would be sold for whatever price the
administrators can get. There's more on this in today's Guardian.

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Rad's the lad for desperate Zola
The Mirror
6/08/2009

West Ham want to sign Radoslav Kovac on a permanent deal after the
pre-season injury to Luis Boa Morte. The Czech (above), who scored once in
10 appearances on loan from Spartak Moscow last season, is available for
£3.5million but Hammers are offering just £2m. Manager Gianfranco Zola is
also desperate to sign a new striker after Bayern Munich told him that Italy
striker Luca Toni is not for sale or loan.

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US businessman Clark Hunt emerges in potential West Ham purchase
06.08.09 | Andrew Slevison

American tycoon Clark Hunt has emerged as a frontrunner for a shock takeover
of West Ham United. Hammers owners, CB Holding, have begun negotiations for
a potential £120million buyout by Hunt who owns Major League Soccer clubs
Columbus Crew and FC Dallas. CB Holding is 70 per cent owned by Icelandic
bank Straumur plus several other financial institutions and all are
suffering in the credit crunch. The company took West Ham as part-payment of
£350m debts built up by Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson. CB Holding produced a
two-year plan to stabilise West Ham but in June, Straumur spokesman Georg
Andersen, said: "Every club is for sale at the right price. With the market
right now it will be difficult to find the right value. "I'm not going to
pretend we are going to own the club for ever."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Wednesday, August 5

Daily WHUFC News - II 5th August 2009

Bishop's Stortford preview
WHUFC.com
Alex Dyer will lead a West Ham United XI side to Woodside Park for a
pre-season friendly on Wednesday evening
05.08.2009

A West Ham United XI side will travel to Bishop's Stortford on Wednesday
evening on a high after hitting three goals in each of their last two games.
Alex Dyer is expected to name a similar side to that which swept aside
Kingstonian 3-0 on Friday for the short trip to face The Blues, who finished
ninth in the the Blue Square South last season.

Nigel Quashie is expected to captain the side once more, but it is the
inclusion of the youthful attacking options that is set to get supporters'
pulses racing. The striking duo of Frank Nouble, with three goals in his two
games since signing from Chelsea, and Anthony Edgar caused the K's back line
no end of problems last week, and their attacking prowess could be
supplemented by the likes of Zavon Hines and Savio following their return
from the Barclays Asia Trophy in China.

At the back, youngsters Holmar Eyjolfsson and Matt Fry, who handled the size
and experience of former Hammer Ian Pearce so well at Kingsmeadow, could be
joined by Bondz N'Gala and Jordan Spence following their return from the
east. It remains to be seen whether new signing Fabio Daprela has had enough
time to adjust to his new surroundings following his arrival from
Grasshopper Club Zurich to play a part.

Other youngsters that could feature in the game following their Chinese
adventure are goalkeepers Peter Kurucz, Marek Stech and midfielder Josh
Payne, giving Dyer a dearth of options throughout his team.

whufc.com will have live text updates from Woodside Park, where kick-off is
at 7.30pm. Admission is £10 for adults, £5 for concessions. For directions,
click here.

Meanwhile, West Ham United Under-18s continue their preparations for the new
season with game at Reading on Wednesday morning. whufc.com will have
details of the result as soon as it is finished.

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Hammers youngster ready to make an impact
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 5th August 2009
By: Thomas Rooney

With the season a little over two weeks away, it is fair to say that the
majority of West Ham fans will be looking forward to the first game. Every
football fan across the country has had enough of the pre-season shenanigans
and is desperate for the competitive stuff to start, particularly since it
provides a good excuse for placing some football bets!

There is a West Ham youngster who is feeling exactly the same as this. Zavon
Hines – who managed to score for the Hammers in Beijing recently – is eager
for the season to start so that he can force himself into first team action.
The 20-year-old has got a taste for first-team football in Beijing and now
he wants more. Scoring a goal in pre-season has increased his determination
to start scoring Premier League goals. He wants to be part of Gianfranco
Zola's thinking in the early part of the season.

Speaking about the months ahead, Hines said that he wants to 'show the
manager what I can do' and be 'involved as much as I can'. Clearly, he feels
that his time has come to make an impact.

As for the pre-season games in the Barclays Asia Trophy, Hines said that it
has been a 'good tournament to play in' ahead of a tough campaign in the
Premier League. The striker says that the hard work the squad have put in
will 'show well for us' come the first game against Wolves.

In terms of his specific aims for the season ahead, Hines revealed that he
wants to be 'on the bench' from the very first game. Then, when he is given
the nod from Zola to get himself ready to come on, he will do all he can to
make the most of his chance.

A late winner or a crucial assist after coming off the bench late on would
do wonders for Hines' confidence and his place in the Upton Park striker
pecking order. It is one step at a time for him, but by Christmas for
example, who is to say that he won't be starting games for West Ham?

This time last year, he certainly looked like making a huge impact on West
Ham's season. He notched five goals in six games during pre-season and
showed a fantastic scoring ability. However, he suffered a knee problem
before the campaign began and ended up only playing one game all year.

This is why the next couple of months are so important to Hines. He deserves
to stay fit and he deserves to be given his opportunity at first-team level.
Good luck Zavon!

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Choke City?
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 5th August 2009
By: Staff Writer

Stoke City are set to sign Hammers striker Dean Ashton, according to local
radio reports. However another source close to Stoke insisted this morning
that the club are set to pull out of the race to sign the permanently
crocked former Norwich striker. Local radio in Stoke carried a report first
thing this morning suggesting that the Potters were about to seal a deal to
sign the 25-year-old, said to be worth around £6m (rising to £10m). However
local paper the Sentinel insist that the opposite is true, claiming that
Tony Pulis is set to turn his attention elsewhere due to concerns over
Ashton's long-term fitness (concerns which apparently failed to materialise
previously). West Ham - who have refrained from commenting on the situation
regarding the once-capped England striker - have refused to confirm that
they would be willing to part with Ashton, who has started just 33 league
games since signing from Norwich for £7million in January 2006. However with
funds tight and Gianfranco Zola looking to expand his attacking options
ahead of the new season the sale of Ashton to facilitate such reinvestment
is not beyond the realms of possibility. Elsewhere Bayern Munich have
released a statement confirming that 32-year-old striker Luca Toni is not
for sale, after recent speculation hinted at possible interest from the
Hammers.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Summer bargains
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 5th August 2009
By: Matthew Kemp

With the season just around the corner, and little transfer activity from CB
Holdings, there is cause for concern that with any potential injuries,
Gianfranco Zola and Steve Clarke will be fielding their third string against
some very strong Premier League sides.

Money is clearly tight, and the spin doctors were out in force once the
creditors of Landsbanki and Bjorgolfur Gudmunsson confirmed the ownership of
West Ham United PLC.

With little interest in Calum Davenport and Nigel Quashie, Zola is
struggling to find the funds for a reserve goalkeeper, potential right back
(If Lucas Neill doesn't sign) and at least two proven strikers.

There are also a few noises surrounding Matthew Upson's future, and with two
years left on his contract and a reluctance to commit his long term future
we could be faced with Danny Gabbidon, James Collins and James Tomkins as
our recognised centre halves, plus Davenport (if he apologises for his
previous outbursts).

Many managers have proved in the past they can build a team on pennies
rather than pounds. Look at Ian Holloway when he was at Bristol Rovers -
Barry Hayles; Bobby Zamora; Nathan Ellington; Jason Roberts; Devon White;
Jamie Cureton; Marcus Stewart. Players that in their league regularly
finished as top scorers.

So what bargains are out there? Well Sol Campbell is worth a punt on a free,
maybe for a one year contract, or how about Michael Ball who has been
released from Manchester City? Nicky Weaver as back-up goalkeeper - worth a
trial having been released by Charlton?

There has to be some loan potential as well. It looks like Sunderland have
beaten us to Mendy yet Man Utd, Arsenal and Real Madrid are flooded with
players who wont get a game next season....a season's loan with a Premier
League club has to be tempting?

In terms of strikers, £5m for Eidur Gudjohnson sounds a fair deal - surely
we have that in the kitty?

Savio and Nouble offer potential, yet we already had that in Sears - and it
was sensible to give him a season in the Championship for him to prove that
he has what it takes. I was gobsmacked that we didn't put an offer in for
Leroy Lita - yes he's lost his form, yet he was also a £1m player, and
England under-21 and scoring goals for fun at one point in his career. Zola
could have restored that confidence.

Lastly, with our Italian connections I would have thought that Nani and Zola
would have been quick to sign up a few players who they've worked with in
the past. I know Savio has been one of those players, yet surely there are
more..?

I'm looking forward to the new season, yet on paper we are weaker than we
were at the end of last season. If we want to build on our momentum, we need
to add to the squad before the deadline window closes...

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bayern cool Toni Hammers talk
German giants reject speculation over front man
By Thomas Zocher Last updated: 5th August 2009
SSN

Bayern Munich have moved to cool talk linking star striker Luca Toni with a
surprise loan move to West Ham United. The Italian has been a key player
for the Bavarian giants since moving to the Allianz Arena in 2007 from
Fiorentina, but the summer captures of Mario Gomez and Ivica Olic have cast
doubt over his future. It has been speculated the World Cup winner could be
set for a spell on the substitutes' bench under new coach Louis van Gaal,
which has reportedly alerted Gianfranco Zola to his compatriot's potential
availability. West Ham are desperately short of firepower as they head into
the new campaign with Carlton Cole currently their only fit senior striker.
Zola has admitted interest in Inter Milan's Mario Balotelli and Eidur
Gudjohnsen of Barcelona but it is the name of Toni that has been mooted in
Germany. Bayern director of sport Christian Nerlinger, though, has denied
his club are in talks with their Premier League counterparts. "There is no
bid regarding Luca Toni," he told Munchener Merkur. "And we are not really
considering his future."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Neill holds Sunderland talks
Australian meets with Black Cats during pre-season
Last updated: 5th August 2009
SSN

Skysports.com understands Sunderland are in talks with Lucas Neill regarding
a possible move to the Stadium of Light. The Australia international is a
free agent after his contract with West Ham United expired at the end of
last season. Gianfranco Zola is keen to re-sign Neill and it was reported an
agreement could have been struck by Monday, but the Hammers boss may see the
deal hijacked. Neill is understood to have been at Sunderland's hotel in
Peterborough ahead of Tuesday's pre-season friendly with the
freshly-promoted Championship outfit. Discussions are said to have taken
place between the 31-year-old and the Black Cats, who are rebuilding under
new manager Steve Bruce this summer.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bayern Munich yet to hear from West Ham over Toni
06.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

Bayern Munich insist no offer from West Ham United has been received for
Luca Toni. The Italy centre-forward has been linked with a loan move to the
Hammers.
"There is no concrete interest in Toni and also he is part of the plans of
coach Louis van Gaal," stressed Bayern director Christian Nerlinger. Bild
says Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is keen to take Toni to London before the
start of the season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke go cold over West Ham striker Ashton
06.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

Stoke City have gone cold over the prospect of bringing West Ham striker
Dean Ashton back to the Brit. The Sentinel says despite local radio reports
today claiming a deal has been signed and sealed with West Ham, it is
thought the transfer is very much back on ice. City boss Tony Pulis has
been keenly investigating the possibility of signing the former Crewe
striker for several weeks. But Ashton's well-documented ankle problems,
which have prevented him playing since last September, have remained a
constant concern throughout.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hull, Blackburn battle West Ham for Kovac
06.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

Spartak Moscow midfielder Radoslav Kovac is set to return to the
Premiership. Kovac spent the second-half of last season on-loan at West Ham
United. The Daily Mail says Hull City have joined the Hammers and Blackburn
in the race to sign Kovac.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Contract wrangle paves way for rival as former captain begins talks
Sport.co.uk
Author: Ben Moss
Posted on:05 August 2009 - 13:47

The former Blackburn Rovers and West Ham captain Lucas Neill is reportedly
in talks with Premier League rivals Sunderland according to Sky Sports News.
The Australian international recently left West Ham after failing to
negotiate a new extension at the club, however it was widely reported the
player was in the process of rectifying the situation as talks were still
ongoing. Today's reports suggest Neill has left Upton Park for good, and he
now looks set to join Steve Bruce at the Stadium of Light.

More to Follow.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reports: Lucas Neill in Sunderland talks
Sunderland Echo
Published Date: 05 August 2009

Former West Ham defender Lucas Neill is in discussions about a a move to
Sunderland, according to reports. According to Sky Sports the 31-year-old,
who is currently out of contract, could be on his way to the Stadium of
Light. He is said to have been at Sunderland's team hotel before the
Peterborough friendly last night. West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has made no
secret of his desire to re-sign the Australia international.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stoke City: Potters cool on Ashton deal
Wednesday, August 05, 2009,
The Sentinal.co.uk
by Martin Spinks

STOKE City are distancing themselves from a move for West Ham striker Dean
Ashton because of on-going concerns over his fitness, The Sentinel
understands. Despite local radio reports today claiming a deal has been
signed and sealed with West Ham, it is thought the transfer is very much
back on ice. City boss Tony Pulis has been keenly investigating the
possibility of signing the former Crewe striker for several weeks. But
Ashton's well-documented ankle problems, which have prevented him playing
since last September, have remained a constant concern throughout.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kingstonian 0 West Ham United XI 3
10:53am Wednesday 5th August 2009
Guardian Series
By Phil Windeatt »

Kingstonian's last pre-season home game saw them tackle their biggest test
so far against a powerful West Ham side comprising of reserves, youth and
trialists, skippered by Scottish international Nigel Quashie. Although their
Premiership visitors were not surprisingly in control all game, with a
lovely pacy passing game, a determined Ks did threaten throughout and Ian
Pearce looked particularly dangerous upfront in the first half. The Ks next
friendly encounter is next Tuesday evening August 4th, 7.45pm k.o. when they
travel to Godalming Town. Next Saturday August 8th the K's travel to their
old rivals Leatherhead for another friendly with a kick-off time that has
been brought forward to 2pm. Ks didn't seem too inhibited by their esteemed
visitors and started strongly. Striker Carl Wilson-Denis sent in a high far
post cross from the right that Pearce headed wide. Then Pearce again got on
the end of a cross this time from the left but this time he headed over. On
12 minutes Irons striker Frank Nouble gave some idea of what was to come
when his powerful drive was parried by Luke Garrard. Fellow striker Antony
Edgar made it to the follow-up but again his well-struck drive was blocked
by the K's skipper. On 22 minutes the Hammers took the lead when Edgar sent
in a dangerous curling free-kick from the left into the Ks goalmouth where
centre back MATT FRY swept the ball home first time past a stranded Garrard.
Then Edgar took off on a long penetrating run and unleashed a powerful low
drive that went wide.
The Ks heads didn't drop, Lewis Cook sent in a useful far post cross for
Wilson-Denis but stretching he just failed to connect. Ryan Lake then found
Wilson-Denis in the Irons box where his powerful header was smothered by
keeper Adam Street at full-stretch. A long through ball from Liam Collins
found Pearce who set NJ Lampton free in the away box but he overran the
ball. On 29 minutes a classy individual goal when FRANK NOUBLE took off into
the K's box, he shook off the attentions of Max Hustwick, and fired past the
outcoming Garrard.
On 38 minutes the K's came back with some venegeance with a series of
consecutive corners. The best came from a short corner by Tommy Williams to
Cook who accurately found Pearce deep in the Irons box and his header looked
goalbound until a full-stretch Street pushed the ball out. Back came the
visitors when Olly Lee pushed a ball through to Edgar in the Ks box but
again Garrard saved the effort. Three minutes into the new half the Hammers
put the game to bed. Francis Duku tried to roll the ball back to Garrard but
the dangerous FRANK NOUBLE pounced, whisked the ball away and drove it into
an empty Ks goal. Williams replied with a powerful rising drive from the
edge of the away box that just went over. It was then time for an army of
substitutions and the game petered away as a spectacle. On the hour Quashie,
on the edge of the Ks box, was unlucky when his drive struck a post, with
Garrard looking on. A Cook free-kick from way out on the right saw a diving
Street in a crowded box punch the ball away. On 75 minutes Ks sub Christian
Jolley's edge of the box strike brought off a full-stretch save from Hammers
sub keeper James Plazzi. A free-kick from K's sub Luke Pigden saw Plazzi do
well to hang onto the ball. Plazzi then punched clear another Pigden
set-piece. The visitors possession was impressive and energy sapping for the
home side but the Ks kept chasing. With three minutes to go a run from sub
Scott Simpson saw him hit the buffers in the visitors box, he still set up
Jolley close in but he blasted over.

Ks. Luke Garrard (capt) (sub Josh Willis, 66mins) 2. Jamie Beer (sub Rob
Sheridan, 56mins) 3. Ryan Lake (sub Tom Dilloway, 56mins) 4. Tommy Williams
(sub Jon Coke, 60mins) 5. Francis Duku 6. Max Hustwick 7. NJ Lampton (sub
Scott Simpson, 66mins) 8. Liam Collins (sub Luke Pigden, 60mins) 9. Ian
Pearce (sub Reggie Savage, 66mins) 10. Carl Wilson-Denis (sub Christian
Jolley, 66mins) 11. Lewis Cook.

Subs: 12. Jon Coke 13. Josh Willis (G/k) 14. Luke Pigden 15. Tom Dilloway
16. Rob Sheridan 17. Scott Simpson 18. Christian Jolley 19. Reggie Savage.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 5th August 2009

Deja vu for Fulham five
WHUFC.com
The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK is set to benefit once again
from five fans
04.08.2009

West Ham United supporting brothers Paul and Ian Turner are planning to once
again walk to Fulham next season in aid of the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer
Research UK.

The duo did the 13-mile trek before last season's fixture at Craven Cottage
and have earmarked a repeat performance this season but this time by walking
the 13 miles back as well rather than getting the Tube home. The news comes
as the club prepare to stage the Bobby Moore Cup this Saturday against SSC
Napoli. Click here for more information.

Paul and Ian will have plenty of time to prepare as the Fulham fixture is
the final awayday for Gianfranco Zola's men in 2009/10 on Saturday 1 May.
What makes the plan even more impressive though is that they are running the
London Marathon the week before - also for the Bobby Moore Fund.

Also joining Paul and Ian on the Fulham walk will be their friends Matthew,
Scott and Adam, with the original idea being one that had long been mooted -
with ultimately the Bobby Moore Fund being the perfect choice to benefit
given the England legend's links to both clubs. "The idea to walk to Craven
Cottage from the Boleyn Ground was one me and Matthew had been kicking about
for some time," said Paul taking up the story.

"We would be down the pub saying that if the game fell on a Saturday and was
a 3pm kick off then we would do it. A season passed without us being able to
attend the match so we were determined last July to go ahead and actually
walk the 13 or so miles.

"My brother Ian and our friends Scott and Adam wanted to join in and so we
set about organising the event. The overwhelming choice to help raise funds
for was the Bobby Moore Fund, a charity all those who took part in the walk
have raised funds for in the past."

So on 27 September 2008, the quintet arranged to start their walk pitchside
at the Boleyn Ground and finished on the sidelines at Craven Cottage - with
the BBC Match of the Day 2 cameras also getting involved.

"It was quite foggy at the start but this did not dampen spirits as we set
off on our journey around the pitch, passing in front of the empty stands
and our season ticket seats, fittingly in the Bobby Moore Lower," Paul
added. "On the road itself the air was crisp and we got support from people
driving by honking their horns or shouting a few words of encouragement or
banter.

"Kevin Day, Louise Lawler and the rest of the BBC filming crew were very
friendly and supportive throughout our efforts and I have to thank them for
taking the time to help out our cause and highlight. When we made it to
Craven Cottage we were presented with a signed Fulham shirt and were greeted
warmly.

"All that walking made for sore feet but due to the volume of fans and our
tickets being towards the back of the Putney End, we were forced to stand
all match long! The pain was bearable as we won 2-1 and the joy left many
singing and indeed conga lining down Stevenage Road towards the Tube. A
great day out was had by all. West Ham won and money was raised for a worthy
cause, what more could you ask for?"

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Napoli tickets selling well
WHUFC.com
Tickets for the visit of SSC Napoli for the Bobby Moore Cup on Saturday are
proving popular
04.08.2009

Tickets for West Ham United's final pre-season game with SSC Napoli in the
Bobby Moore Cup fixture with are selling well.

The Hammers will take on the Italian Serie A side at the Boleyn Ground on
Saturday, with kick-off at 3pm. It will be the curtain-raiser for the new
Barclays Premier League season, with the big kick-off following a week later
at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The fixture will be the first chance for West Ham supporters to see the
club's summer signings in action at home, with Chile forward Luis Jimenez
among those who could feature alongside Hammer of the Year winner Scott
Parker and the fit-again Danny Gabbidon.

Napoli also possess a wealth of exciting players, including Slovakia
playmaker Marek Hamsik and their own new arrival, Italy striker Fabio
Quagliarella.

Fans requiring their tickets to be posted should be aware that Wednesday is
the final day for tickets to sent out. Prices are greatly reduced with
tickets available for as little as £10 to season ticket holders, £12 to club
members and £15 to non-members. All Under-16 tickets will be priced at £5,
with concessions also available for Young Adult members and the Over-65s.

Like last year's inaugural Bobby Moore Cup, £1 from the sale of every match
ticket will go to the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK (Registered
Charity No. 1089464) to help tackle bowel cancer. In addition, West Ham
United will match each £1 raised to double the total amount donated to the
charity.

This initiative follows on from a number of events last season, which was
the first year of the formal three-year partnership agreement signed with
the Fund.

Tickets can be purchased either in-person from the West Stand Ticket Office
or by telephone by calling 0871 222 2700 and selecting Option One.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers still on the hunt
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th August 2009
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United are still hoping to tie up one or two transfers ahead of the
start of 2009/10 Premier League campaign - despite kick-off being just 11
days away.

The Hammers have been left frustrated by their failure to land some of
Gianfranco Zola's main targets, meaning that the Italian boss could go into
the new season with just one new addition to his first team - Inter's
on-loan midfielder Luis Jimenez.

CEO Scott Duxbury revealed earlier in the summer that he had been hoping to
secure three new additions to boost Zola's first team options as early as
possible - yet bar last month's arrival of Jimenez, those are yet to
materialise.

One of those initial targets - Jimenez's former team mate Mancini - remains
on the radar, however the player is understood to be considering his options
still having been told recently that he is not part of Jose Mourinho's
future plans.

Whilst Gianfranco Zola recently expressed an interest in signing Barcelona
striker Eidur Gudjohnsen rumours linking the Hammers with a fresh move for
teenage striker Mario Balotelli are thought to be wide of the mark.

The search for a striker has become more urgent with Dean Ashton's failure
to appear in a single pre-season fixture, leaving Carlton Cole as the
squad's only fit, experienced striker.

Meanwhile talks with last season's club captain Lucas Neill over an extended
one-year contract continue; the Australian full-back, currently a free agent
is unhappy with the deal being offered by West Ham but hopes to thrash out
an agreement in time to see him start the new campaign at Wolves next
weekend.

Should the 31-year-old right-back reject United's offer, Julien Faubert -
who spend the latter part of last season on the bench at Real Madrid - is
expected to get the nod over Jonathan Spector for the vacant right-back
spot.

Matthew Upson - who led the team out against Tottenham in China last week -
is favourite to be named as Neill's potential successor as club captain.

Ins and outs - our summer business so far

IN: Herita Ilunga (Toulouse, £2.4m); Luis Jimenez (Inter, season-long loan
with option to buy); Fabio Daprela (Grasshoppers, nominal undisclosed fee);
Frank Nouble (Chelsea, undisclosed fee); Jack Lampe (Harlow Town,
undisclosed fee); Eoin Wearen (undisclosed fee).

OUT: Freddie Sears (Crystal Palace, season-long loan); Lee Bowyer (released,
end of contract); Jan Lastuvka (Shaktar, end of loan); Radoslav Kovac
(Spartak, end of loan); Diego Tristan (released, end of contract); David Di
Michele (Torino, end of loan); Walter Lopez (released, end of contract);
Kyel Reid (released, end of contract); Tony Stokes (released, end of
contract); Jimmy Walker (released, end of contract).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham in loan move for Bayern Munich striker Luca Toni/ Transfer gossip
05/08/2009
IMScouting.com

According to reports in the German press this morning, West Ham have
approached Bayern Munich to take Italian striker Luca Toni on loan. Toni is
not expected to receive much playing time under new coach Louis van Gaal,
with Mario Gomez now first choice at the Allianz Arena following his big
money move from Stuttgart. West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola is reportedly a
big fan of Luca Toni and is eager for him to spearhead the Hammers attack.
Luca Toni's wages of 5.5 million euros a year may be a stumbling block to
any deal, but if a loan move is agreed, Bayern would likely continue to pay
some part of his salary. The 32-year-old striker came to prominence at
Palermo and then Fiorentina, relatively late in his professional career. He
led the line for Italy as they won the World Cup in 2006 and then moved to
Bayern Munich. His first season at Bayern saw him score 24 goals in 31
games, his second campaign was less successful with 17 goals in 33
appearances as the Bavarian giants failed to reclaim their Bundesliga title.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola, Lee and Sheringham back in starting line-up
The teamsheets at Woodside Park, the modest home of Bishop's Stortford
Football Club, will have a distinctly nostalgic feel.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Jeremy Wilson
Published: 7:00PM BST 04 Aug 2009

West Ham United are the visitors and the names Zola and Lee are expected to
be among the starting line-up while a certain Sheringham is likely to be
leading the attack for Bishop's Stortford. Yet this is not some veterans'
match for ex-players trying to rediscover their lost youth but rather a full
pre-season friendly that just happens to involve the offspring of some of
the most illustrious Premier League footballers of the 1990s. Sport on
television Andrea Zola, the 18-year-old son of Gianfranco, will attract most
interest, largely because his father is now West Ham manager and remains
arguably the finest overseas 'import' in the history of English football.
Zola Jnr has already featured in pre-season friendlies against Thurrock and
Kingstonian and, while his involvement at the club is limited to a trial
with Alex Dyer's reserve team, he has made a positive initial impression.
The physical resemblance is immediately striking. At a little over 5ft 5in
tall and with a low and powerful centre of gravity, Andrea could almost
double for his father from a distance.
So might we see another Zola captivating the Premier League? "He has an eye
for a pass," said a club insider, "but at the moment he's just training and
playing a few games. We don't know where it might lead."
Andrea has certainly arrived at West Ham with a point to prove after leaving
Cagliari Calcio, the Zola family's home club in Sardinia and the final
destination in his father's long and illustrious playing career. Those in
England who have seen him this summer are cautiously impressed, though he
was not sufficiently integral to his father's plans for next season to
travel to China as part of a 23-man squad for the Premier League Asia
Trophy. He plays generally on the left and started alongside Nigel Quashie
as part of a three-man midfield in the 3-2 win against Thurrock. "He looked
a good player with potential but it would be a grave, grave mistake to
compare him to his father, who was very special," said Hakan Hayrettin, the
Thurrock manager. "If anyone could be half the player that Gianfranco Zola
was you would have a great chance of making it. Like any young player he has
to listen and learn. "He is fortunate who his father is but how far he
progresses is down to himself and the staff at West Ham."
There should be little problem in adapting to the culture of English
football. Andrea was only five when the Zola family moved to London in 1996.
Gianfranco spent seven years at Stamford Bridge and the experience clearly
left an impression. According to Andrea's Facebook page, he is a particular
fan of Chelsea and England captain John Terry. Following in the footsteps of
an illustrious sporting father, however, is never easy. Liam Botham tells
the story of arriving for his first cricket match at the age of 10 and being
greeted by a group of journalists who disappeared the moment he scored his
first run.
West Ham are keen to keep the spotlight off Andrea for now and will be
mindful that football history is littered with examples of sons following in
their father's footsteps with varying success.
Nigel Clough, Darren Ferguson, Gavin Strachan, Jamie Redknapp, Alex Bruce
and Paul Dalglish have all played at clubs managed by their father, while
Eidur Gudjohnsen replaced his dad Arnor, a fellow striker, during an
international game for Iceland in 1996. The Summerbees – George, Mike and
Nicky – could even boast three generations of professional footballers.
As well as Zola Jnr at West Ham, George Moncur, son of John, is with the
under-18 team, while Oliver and Elliot Lee, sons of Rob, are in the academy.
Oliver and Andrea should play together on Wednesday night in midfield
against a Bishop's Stortford team whose star striker is the 21-year-old
Charlie Sheringham. Charlie, son of Teddy, finished top scorer for Welling
United in the Conference South last season. Like father, like son

Cesare and Paolo Maldini Cesare won four Serie A titles and one European Cup
as a player while Paolo won the Champions League five times at AC Milan.
Frank Lampard snr and jnr Lampard Snr won two FA Cups at West Ham. Frank Jnr
is an England regular and has won every domestic trophy at Chelsea. Brian
and Nigel Clough Both played for England and have managed Derby. Brian's
achievements are unique though. He scored 251 goals in 274 games, then
managed Nottingham Forest to two European Cups. Harry and Jamie Redknapp
Harry played for West Ham and Bournemouth, then managed both as well as
Portsmouth, Southampton and Tottenham. Son Jamie won 17 England caps and
spent more than a decade at Liverpool.

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Walking for Bobby Moore
West Ham Till I Die

Two friends, brought together by their passion for football, have decided to
spend their Summer holiday joining a team of 38 people on Project Brazil, on
behalf of the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK

From the 27th September to the 9th October, David Deane, (a Cambridge United
fan) and Lloyd Hardwick (a West Ham fan) plan to travel to Forte in Brazil,
to help the village renovate and rebuild their dilapidated school and
football pitch.

WALK FOR MOORE
To be part of this opportunity of a lifetime, our challenge is to raise
£8,000 which will stay in the UK to fund bowel cancer research, the disease
which claimed Bobby's life. Bowel cancer is the second highest killing
cancer in the UK claiming 44 lives every day.

To reach our goal, we have decided to WALK FOR MOORE on Saturday 5th
September 2009. This route traces the career of Bobby Moore, starting from
his birthplace in Barking, via West Ham United and Upton Park, finishing at
the Bobby Moore Statue at Wembley in time for kick off of the England Vs
Slovenia International (KO:15:00hrs).

The route we are taking is a total of 26 miles. Along the way, we will be
taking photos and blogging/ uploading to Twitter/ reading responses - to
help raise further awareness and interact with our sponsors, friends and
other football fans.

YOU CAN PLAY YOUR PART
Our aim to generate a considerable buzz around this event in the media. To
play your part in helping us reach our target, please either:
1) Sponsor us direct by visiting www.justgiving.com/lloydhardwick
2) Help publicise WALK FOR MOORE (in your blog/ shop along the route/
football programme/ on the radio etc)

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West Ham striker Hines targets first team role
05.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United striker Zavon Hines was delighted with his form during their
Asian Trophy campaign. "It has been a good tournament to play in," Hines,
who scored five goals in six games in pre-season last year before suffering
a knee problem, told whufc.com. "The conditions were hard, but you just have
to work harder to get through it all and I am sure this will show well for
us come the new season. "Last year, I had a good pre-season and then got the
injury, but hopefully I can carry on this year and get through the season
with no injuries and be involved as much as I can with the first team. I
want to show the manager what I can do." Hines added: "My aim is at to be on
the bench for the first team for the start if I can, but just to do my best
in any game I play for West Ham United and go upwards from there."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Tuesday, August 4

Daily WHUFC News - 3rd August 2009

Nordic glory for Hall
WHUFC.com
Robert Hall was on target as England's U17s won the Nordic International Youth Tournament
03.08.2009

West Ham United striker Robert Hall set England's Under-17s on course for Nordic International Youth Tournament glory. The 15-year-old scored England's first goal in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Scotland in the final, which was held at the Overlands Minde Stadium in Trondheim, Norway, on Sunday. Hall, who also scored his country's winner in the 1-0 semi-final victory over the host nation on Friday, set England on the comeback trail after the Scots had opened up a 2-0 lead. The teenager hit the net on 76 minutes to halve the deficit after Fraiser Fyvie and Jamie Walker had put Scotland two goals up at half-time. Middlesbrough's Ben Gibson levelled matters on 79 minutes - U17 football matches last only 80 minutes, so the equaliser arrived with just 60 seconds of normal time remaining - before Everton's Josh Bidwell put England ahead on 95 minutes. England held out for the remaining period to lift the trophy, capping a fine week for the country as a whole and Hall in particular. The youngster, who trained with the Hammers first-team squad for a week in July, also scored twice in the 8-0 group stage thrashing of the Faroe Islands, taking his tally to four in as many matches.

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Hines hungry for more
WHUFC.com
Zavon Hines is hoping his goal in Beijing can be the start of a superb season with West Ham United
04.08.2009

Young striker Zavon Hines found his feet in Beijing and wants that Far East experience to launch his bid for first-team action this season. The 20-year-old Hines scored with virtually the last touch for West Ham United in the 2-0 win over hosts Beijing Guoan in the Barclays Asia Trophy and is hoping he has shown manager Gianfranco Zola exactly what he can do.

"It has been a good tournament to play in," Hines, who scored five goals in six games in pre-season last year before suffering a knee problem, told whufc.com. "The conditions were hard, but you just have to work harder to get through it all and I am sure this will show well for us come the new season.

"Last year, I had a good pre-season and then got the injury, but hopefully I can carry on this year and get through the season with no injuries and be involved as much as I can with the first team. I want to show the manager what I can do."

Hines completed the scoring after defender Danny Gabbidon had grabbed the first in the 80th minute as West Ham secured third place in the tournament.

"I don't remember too much about my goal to be honest," added Hines "It was a through-ball to me and I remember going one-on-one and the ball going through the keeper's legs. I was just happy to score and it was nice for us to end the tournament with a good match and win."

Reflecting on the tournament that started with a 1-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur, Hines said: "The first game was not the best for us and we got the injury to Luis [Boa Morte] that we didn't want, but we played better football in the second match and I think the last few days we were more used to the conditions.

"It is good to play football in a completely different atmosphere and I am sure the fitness will show now we are back."

The team also got to visit the Great Wall of China when they had an afternoon of free time. "It was good to go there, something different. Although a bit tough on the legs, as there were so many steep steps. But it was a place that you can say you have visited."

Hines believes the trip to Beijing and, the one to Austria just before it, was also a good chance for the team to spend time together before the 2009/10 campaign kicks off on 15 August. The diminutive forward also revealed how the senior players in the squad had helped the younger members become part of the team.

"The trips have been good for team bonding. Everyone can spend time together as a squad, we got to know anyone new and just spend the time as a team on and off the pitch. It has been good to be around each other.

"The older and more senior boys really looked after us all well, making sure we were happy and OK. We get a bit of banter from them now and then, if you are not doing well in training, they will tell you. But it was really good to be there."

Now with the real business about to start, Hines has only one thing on his mind, scoring more goals and clinching a first-team place. He would love to be involved against SSC Napoli this weekend and then take it from there.

"My aim is at to be on the bench for the first team for the start if I can, but just to do my best in any game I play for West Ham United and go upwards from there."

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Daprela eager to get started
WHUFC.com
Switzerland U19 defender Fabio Daprela is raring to get his West Ham United career underway
03.08.2009

Fabio Daprela believes he is in the perfect place to realise his undoubted potential. The Switzerland Under-19 defender joined West Ham United on a five-year deal last week, jetting into London after representing his country at the UEFA European U19 Championship in Ukraine. Daprela, who has moved to London from Grasshopper Zurich in his homeland, wants to follow in the long line of illustrious names to come off the Academy of Football's famed conveyor belt of talent. In a week that will climax with the second annual Bobby Moore Cup fixture, which will see West Ham host SSC Napoli at the Boleyn Ground, the 18-year-old singled out the Hammers and England great as the player he most looked up to.

"I know West Ham United is the Academy of football and they had Bobby Moore, a great captain in 1966," said Daprela, who has also been impressed by the performances of the club's present-day stars.

"I know quite a few players already from the television - Matthew Upson, Jack Collison, Carlton Cole and Herita Ilunga."

Daprela, who will train with his new team-mates for the first time this week, is also excited about the prospect of linking up with the club's band of promising youngsters, including wingers Junior Stanislas and Daniel Kearns, who he marked when the Swiss took on Northern Ireland in Belfast in April.

Now, he wants to carry his promising performances into the Barclays Premier League.

"I wanted to join with the other youngsters in the team. I know Stanislas is a great football and I saw the goal he scored on the television in Switzerland.

"I played against Daniel Kearns, who is a good player, very fast and good dribbling. I want to play with the first team in the Premier League."

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Hartson now out of critical care
BBC.co.uk

Former Wales international footballer John Hartson who is fighting cancer has been transferred out of critical care, say his doctors. The retired footballer, 34, has been critically ill at Morriston Hospital in Swansea since undergoing emergency surgery on his brain last month. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer which had reached his brain and lungs. He is now being treated at the city's Singleton Hospital and could begin chemotherapy this week. Hartson played for Arsenal and Celtic during his career and was capped 51 times for Wales, before retiring from the game in February 2008. Since the cancer diagnosis was made in July has undergone two operations on his brain. The first was emergency surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the second was a pre-planned neurosurgical drainage procedure. But last week the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg (ABM) NHS trust which is caring for him reported a gradual improvement in the star's condition. He was transferred from Morriston into the care of Singleton's cancer team on Sunday evening, the NHS trust confirmed in a statement. "If progress continues, we are planning to begin his chemotherapy treatment this week," the statement added.
The father-of-three's family, making their own statement, thanked all the staff at Morriston "for their help and support" as well as the ambulance staff who transferred the former footballer. "We are now focusing on helping John in the next stage of his treatment," they said. After an illustrious career on the pitch, Hartson was developing a new career as a television pundit when he became ill. Since the news of his illness has emerged, the hospital has been inundated with messages of support. Among them was one from American cyclist Lance Armstrong, who has himself fought testicular cancer. He has also received backing from UK troops fighting in Afghanistan, and US marines, his family have revealed.

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Keeper bid rejected
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 3rd August 2009
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are said to have had a bid for Stockport goalkeeper Owain Fon-Williams turned down. 22-year-old Fon-Williams, who is widely is regarded as League One County's most prized asset is said to have been the subject of a £150,000 bid from the Hammers - an offer that is said to have been instantly rejected. The talented Welsh under-21 international has been tracked by a number of Premier League clubs in recent months, including Everton and Sunderland. He has been at Edgeley Park for just a year following a free transfer from former club Crewe, whom he left having failed to break into the first team. Fon-Williams, who stands at 6'4" joined The Alex as a trainee in 2003 before a broken leg in 2004 halted his progress. After completing his move to Stockport in July 2008 following the completion of his contract at Gresty Road he was made first choice keeper, but soon lost his place after some indifferent form. Having returned to the number one spot in November the keeper went on to play every game for County before a problematic shoulder forced an operation in March that kept him of of action for the rest of the season. Prior to the setback Fon-Williams had earned his first call-up to the full Welsh squad.

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Hammers take on Chelsea
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 3rd August 2009
By: Staff Writer

Supporters of West Ham United and Chelsea have the opportunity to battle it out head to head in their team's colours and play with their heroes in a new, unique golf event launching this summer. The pro:fantastic Golf Challenge allows pairs of football fans from some of the country's top clubs to play off in a Sky Sports televised regional final against local rivals, in September, before qualifying for a grand final at a top continental resort. They will be joined at the final by stars from their club's past who will captain the team in the quest for the pro:fantastic Golf Challenge title. Blues and Hammers fans will compete together at Hampton Court Palace GC on September 7, with a pair from each club going forward to the grand final. Fans from a total of 22 English and Scottish teams will be playing and some of the biggest names in the clubs' recent histories have thrown their weight behind the event. Liverpool's record goalscorer Ian Rush, Chelsea goal machine Kerry Dixon, Manchester United's flying winger Lee Sharpe and West Ham's Frank McAvennie are just four of the keen golfing ex-pros who have already expressed their desire to take part. McAvennie enthused: "The pro:fantastic Golf Challenge is exactly what has been missing from sport. It's the perfect challenge for all golf and football fans alike."
Dixon said: "This really is a brilliant opportunity for football club supporters to make it into a major final of their own." The regional events, each at a top UK course, will see around 30 pairs of supporters from each club playing in a two-ball Stableford format with the best pair from each club heading to an expenses paid grand final abroad, where they will enjoy accommodation, 18 holes of competitive, televised golf and a gala dinner with their footballing heroes. Everybody competing at the regional finals will receive a golf shirt in their respective club colours, bacon rolls and coffee upon arrival, 18 holes of competitive, televised golf and a post-event hot buffet meal. Places in the event are limited and cost £136.85 per person. For more information or to book a place visit www.profantasticgolf.com or call 01698 429429.

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Mensah admits Prem lure
Sunderland and West Ham linked with defender
By Giscard Gourizro Last updated: 3rd August 2009
SSN

John Mensah has hinted that his future could lie in the Premier League amid reports linking him with a move away from Lyon. According to rumours in France, the Ghana international is attracting interest from Sunderland and West Ham United. Mensah is flattered by the speculation but remains focused on ensuring he enjoys a successful 2009/10 season. The 26-year-old defender told skysports.com: "It is great to be linked to Premier League clubs. "My past season with Lyon was not good and I hated to be injured. But I am fit now and raring to go, either at Lyon or the Premier League." He added: "I am aware of the interest, but nothing is agreed yet, it was always an ambition to play in the Premier League, so let's wait and see."

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Ricardo Fuller Hints At Stoke City Arrival Of Dean Ashton From West Ham United
The Jamaican seems to think he might be teaming up with a new strike partner in the Potteries soon, but would rather focus on pre-season preparations than transfer dealings...
3 Aug 2009 17:29:05

Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller was out delivering season tickets to lucky fans in the Potteries today, and took some time out from doing so to talk about his club's likely dealings in the transfer window ahead of the new season. West Ham United striker Dean Ashton has been heavily linked with a move to the Britannia Stadium in recent weeks, and Fuller seemed to be optimistic that the striker was indeed on his way to join him.

"For a couple of months now there's been talk of Dean Ashton coming here," Fuller told Sky Sports News. "And a few more players, so hopefully the officials and the gaffer can bring in a few new faces.

"But at the end of the day, I'm just a player and all the other players will say the same. We just want to concentrate on our own job that we have to do, which is getting fit and continuing our preparation for the beginning of the season and let the gaffer do his job and bring in new people."

Ashton's time at West Ham has been severely disrupted by injury. However, his style of play would fit in well with the no-frills approach to the game favoured by Potters manager Tony Pulis, who last week claimed that the England international's injury problems would not put him off making an offer.

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

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West Ham United Goalscorer Gabbidon Feeling Confident Ahead Of New Season
The Welshman found the net whilst the club were in China, and now hopes to take some of that momentum into the new season...
3 Aug 2009 17:14:39

West Ham United defender Danny Gabbidon managed a rare goal whilst the club were in China last week as part of their preparations for the new season, scoring in the side's 2-0 victory over Beijing Guoan in the Asia Trophy. The defender managed to complete his first 90 minutes since December 2008, after suffering a complex series of injuries relating to an abdominal problem, and was delighted to have contributed to a victory by helping to keep a clean sheet as well as scoring a goal. He was clearly excited about his goal when speaking to the club's official website though, stating, "I didn't really see it coming. Nobes [Mark Noble] had whipped in a corner just before and I kind of ran in a bit too early so I thought the second one that comes in I am just going to hang back a bit. "It worked out perfectly. I lost my defender and it was great to see it going in. I was a bit shocked because I am not usually a goalscorer. It was probably the first time I have been up for a corner since I have been at West Ham. It was nice to score though. It was good for my confidence, especially as I also played a full 90 minutes. "It has made me feel better about myself but the main thing is the team. It was nice to get a win and finish the trip to China on a winning note. I wasn't expecting to score, as I was more concerned about contributing to the team by helping us keep a clean sheet."
Gabbidon was also pleased to be back home after a hectic pre-season for the Hammers that involved a trip to Austria as well as China over the last month or so, but he feels that the side are in good shape ahead of the coming campaign. "It is good to be back at home this week. It was hectic in Austria and China and there wasn't a lot of time to do anything but train and play but you won't hear us complaining," he explained. "It is nice for us to get back to see our families though and start thinking about the new season."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com

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Mensah Tracked By Sunderland & West Ham United
GhanaWeb.com

According to a report in Le Parisien, Olympique Lyonnais defender John Mensah is being courted by Premier League clubs Sunderland and West Ham United. The Ghanaian international star only joined OL from Stade Rennais last summer, however, the step to one of France's elite teams has been difficult for Mensah, who has struggled to gain regular playing time at the Stade Gerland over the course of his Lyon stay. Although he played 12 league games last season, these were not all in his favoured central defensive berth, where he struggled to displace Cris and Jean-Alain Boumsong. The 26-year-old's season was also hindered by injury, as his whole career has been to date.
"My last season at Lyon was not good because of injuries, but I am ready and in shape now, whether I am to play in Lyon or in Premier League," he told Ghanaian television, according to France Football. Lyon announced last week that Mensah could well be one of a number of squad players shed before the start of the Ligue 1 season on Saturday, with reports associating the Black Cats and the Hammers with the powerful defender. Sunderland are known to be in the market for a central defender and would appear to have the funding to match OL's reported €7 million asking price. France Football, however, notes that no move is likely for two weeks. There can be little doubting the quality of the Obuasi-born star, who has previously featured in Italy for the likes of Genoa and Modena, however, his ability to stay healthy must be a significant worry for any side interested in his services.

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West Ham in talks to keep Neill
Monday, August 3, 2009
ViewLondon.co.uk

West Ham are to continue talks this week with Lucas Neill in an attempt to keep him at Upton Park. With the Hammers now back from their trip to the Far East, manager Gianfranco Zola will step up moves to finalise his squad ahead of the new campaign. Zola's former Chelsea team-mate Eidur Gudjohnsen has been linked with a switch to Upton Park, but the Hammers are also keen to obtain Neill's signature again. The Australia international's contract expired at the end of last month and he did not fly to Beijing for the Barclays Asia Trophy as the 31-year-old considers his options, with Manchester City and Galatasaray reported possible other destinations. West Ham also have Julien Faubert available following from a loan spell at Real Madrid, and the Frenchman has impressed when slotting into right-back. Ghana international John Mensah has been attracting some interest from England, with the Hammers and Sunderland both said to be keen on the Lyon defender. Zola's current players have enjoyed a productive pre-season, which included a training camp in Austria and will see them face Serie A side Napoli at Upton Park on Saturday. Defender Danny Gabbidon is another back in the frame for the new campaign following a long injury lay-off. The defender scored in the 2-0 win over Beijing Guoan. Gabbidon said: 'It was hectic in Austria and China and there wasn't a lot of time to do anything but train and play - but you won't hear us complaining. 'It is nice for us to get back to see our families though and start thinking about the new season.'

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West Ham ready for Bobby Moore Cup match
By Simon Hayes on August 3, 2009 3:43 PM
Wharf.co.uk

The football season is almost upon us but before it starts in earnest West Ham will honour arguably their greatest son in their final friendly game. The Bobby Moore Cup match will be held at Upton Park when the Irons meet Italian side Napoli on August 8. The Wharf spoke to Moore's widow Stephanie about the game, which will raise money for the Bobby Moore Fund. She said: "I'm looking forward to the game very much. It was a great occasion last year, the fans really got behind it and showed what the club is all about. "West Ham supporters are loyal to their heroes and remain loyal to them forever. They are a special band of supporters, a real community. This year it will be a tremendous game and what a great way to kick-start the season."
Last year's game against Villareal saw the retirement of the Hammers' number six shirt, which Moore wore with such distinction in 646 games for the club. Stephanie was presented with the shirt at half-time in that game by Matthew Upson, the last player to wear it, and she admitted she found it an emotional occasion. She said: "I knew it was going to be difficult so I didn't speak in public when I went onto the pitch to receive the shirt. It was an amazing day and words just can't do justice to what it meant."

The shirt was framed and was later sold at a charity quiz night for £3,000. The Bobby Moore Cup match itself raised £39,950 for cancer research. Stephanie admitted Moore would not have expected such a tribute. She said: "I think Bobby would have been surprised the number six shirt was retired because he did have his problems with the club after he left. The old board weren't very supportive of him and he rarely went back before he died. "But in recent years the club have been wonderful and the efforts they have made for the fund have been fantastic. "He was there man and boy and the club always meant a lot to him. He never had any regrets about his career there, even though people sometimes thought he should have moved to a bigger club to win more trophies. "But that West Ham side he played in was quite star-studded and achieved some tremendous things like winning the Cup Winners Cup. "And Bobby was great friends with so many players there, people like Harry Redknapp, so he was quite happy."

Last Thursday, July 30, marked 43 years to the day since Moore lifted the World Cup for England. He tragically died of bowel cancer in February 1993, at the age of just 51, and Stephanie wants to raise awareness of the disease to prevent its spread. She said: "The most important thing is to raise awareness of bowel cancer. It is curable if it's diagnosed early, but 44 people die from it every day. "It's also important to raise money for research. Over the last 15 years the treatment available has improved massively but the disease is still growing. People need to eat less red meat, cut down on their drinking and smoking and get more exercise. If we continue as we are it will become an epidemic. "My message is to go for a screening and if you have any concerns go to a doctor without delay."

The Bobby Moore Cup game against Napoli is on Saturday, August 8. For tickets visit whufc.co.uk.

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New signing Daprela already West Ham mad
04.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

Former Grasshoppers Zurich defender Fabio Daprela is sure to have impressed West Ham fans with his knowledge of the club and his new teammates. The new signing told whufc.com: "I know West Ham United is the Academy of football and they had Bobby Moore, a great captain in 1966. "I know quite a few players already from the television - Matthew Upson, Jack Collison, Carlton Cole and Herita Ilunga." Daprela, who will train with his new team-mates for the first time this week, is also excited about the prospect of linking up with the club's band of promising youngsters, including wingers Junior Stanislas and Daniel Kearns, who he marked when the Swiss took on Northern Ireland in Belfast in April. Now, he wants to carry his promising performances into the Barclays Premier League. "I wanted to join with the other youngsters in the team. I know Stanislas is a great football and I saw the goal he scored on the television in Switzerland. "I played against Daniel Kearns, who is a good player, very fast and good dribbling. I want to play with the first team in the Premier League."

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West Ham's Gabbidon delighted with playing comeback
04.08.09 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United defender Danny Gabbidon is delighted with his return to playing action this preseason. Gabbidon is back in the frame for the new campaign following a long injury lay-off. The defender scored in the 2-0 win over Beijing Guoan. Gabbidon said on the club's official website: "It was hectic in Austria and China and there wasn't a lot of time to do anything but train and play - but you won't hear us complaining. "It is nice for us to get back to see our families though and start thinking about the new season."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Monday, August 3

Daily WHUFC News - 3rd August 2009

Goal lifts Gabbidon
WHUFC.com
A rare turn as goalscorer has helped boost Danny Gabbidon's confidence
before the new season
03.08.2009

Danny Gabbidon is pleased to be back on home soil after an extremely
successful pre-season so far with West Ham United. The defender's excellent
summer continued with his first 90 minutes since December 2008 in the 2-0
win against Beijing Guoan in the Barclays Asia Trophy last Friday. To cap it
off, he scored the team's opening goal.

It came courtesy of a towering header after he ventured up for a corner in
the 80th minute. As Mark Noble's cross spiralled into the penalty area,
Gabbidon was the quickest to react. The celebrations were fitting for a man
who had been out for a year and a half.

"I didn't really see it coming," Gabbidon told whufc.com. "Nobes had whipped
in a corner just before and I kind of ran in a bit too early so I thought
the second one that comes in I am just going to hang back a bit. It worked
out perfectly. I lost my defender and it was great to see it going in.

"I was a bit shocked because I am not usually a goalscorer. It was probably
the first time I have been up for a corner since I have been at West Ham. It
was nice to score though. It was good for my confidence, especially as I
also played a full 90 minutes.

"It has made me feel better about myself but the main thing is the team. It
was nice to get a win and finish the trip to China on a winning note. I
wasn't expecting to score, as I was more concerned about contributing to the
team by helping us keep a clean sheet."

The No4 only returned to full training at the end of last season after a
succession of injuries related to an abdominal problem and then played in a
friendly game to open the new Cardiff City stadium at the start of July.
That was followed by a first run-out for the Hammers in 18 months at Grays
Athletic before the trips to Austria and then China.

"It is good to be back at home this week," he added, with the whole squad
now focused on the visit of SSC Napoli this Saturday. "It was hectic in
Austria and China and there wasn't a lot of time to do anything but train
and play but you won't hear us complaining. It is nice for us to get back to
see our families though and start thinking about the new season."

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Scholars always learning
WHUFC.com
Paul Hilton believes his Academy youngsters will have benefitted from
training with the first team
02.08.2009

A number of West Ham United's aspiring youngsters have benefitted greatly
from training with Gianfranco Zola's first-team squad in recent weeks.
Assistant Academy Director Paul Hilton believes the likes of England
Under-17 striker Robert Hall, Republic of Ireland youth international Eoin
Wearen and second-year scholar Conor Okus would have learned a great deal
from working alongside the club's established internationals.

The trio, along with fellow scholars Georg Grasser and Cristian Montano,
were also involved in the first-team pre-season friendly victory at Grays
Athletic on 12 July, giving them the opportunity to see close-up how the
likes of Herita Ilunga, Kieron Dyer and Daniel Gabbidon prepare for a match.

Hall, Wearen and Okus trained under the watchful eye of Zola and his coaches
for a week before the first-team squad travelled to Austria for a ten-day
training camp. Midfielders Grasser and Ollie Lee and forward Anthony Edgar
were all invited to join Zola and his players as they worked on improving
their fitness ahead of the new Barclays Premier League season.

Hilton now expects his charges to pass on their experiences to the younger
members of the Academy. "A few of the lads have been training with the
first-team in pre-season and it has given them a little insight into where
they need to be and how much work they need to do to reach that level," said
Hilton. "The first-team staff were brilliant with them, allowing them to
train with the squad and showing them the levels they need to attain if they
are to become members of that squad themselves. "Hopefully the lads will
have taken that all on board and will pass on what they have learned to the
younger boys at the Academy. They have been setting the tone in training
since their return and that is encouraging."

Hilton, who played 79 first-team games for the Hammers between 1984 and
1989, now assists Academy Director Tony Carr in helping to develop young
players between the Under-14 and Under-18 age-groups.

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Hammers favourites to sign Neill
Monday meeting to discuss new deal
Last updated: 2nd August 2009
SSN

Sky Sports News understands a deal to keep Lucas Neill at West Ham could be
reached on Monday. Neill is a free agent, but Sky Sports News chief news
reporter Bryan Swanson understands a meeting has been scheduled on Monday
between the club and the Australian's advisors to finalise a new deal.
Sources have told Swanson that West Ham remain favourites to sign Neill
after interest from several clubs over the summer. The defender's contract
at the club expired last month and he has previously rejected an offer of an
extension. However, Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola revealed his hope earlier
in the week that a deal could be agreed to hang on to the influential
31-year-old. "Lucas Neill is talking with the club," said Zola on Tuesday.
"We need obviously to have some negotiations, but I am hoping that he is
going to join us as soon as possible. "I know his name has been linked to
other clubs. Last time I spoke to the player he told me that if anything
could happen he would call me first. So far he has not called me so I assume
he is not yet going anywhere. "He was an important player last year and our
aim this year is to work to improve how we did last season and we hope that
he will make his decision."
Turkish giants Galatasaray, along with Manchester City, had been linked with
bids, but it appears Neill is now set to stay at Upton Park.

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Lucas Neill looks like staying at West Ham United
August 03, 2009 11:11am
News.com.au

SOCCEROOS captain Lucas Neill looks like staying with West Ham United and
could finalise a new deal in the next 24 hours. The 31-year-old defender
looked certain to leave the club after his contract expired at the end of
last season and he rejected a contract extension which required him to take
a pay cut. But reports in England now suggest Neill's representative will
meet with West Ham officials at Upton Park on Monday to iron out a new deal.
Neill was linked with a move to Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he would
have joined fellow Socceroo Harry Kewell, as well as cashed-up Manchester
City, but the Hammers always remained hopeful of retaining their club
captain. "Lucas Neill is talking with the club," manager Gianfranco Zola
said. "We need obviously to have some negotiations, but I am hoping that he
is going to join us as soon as possible. "He was an important player last
year and our aim this year is to work to improve how we did last season and
we hope that he will make his decision."
Speculation of Neill's future has stretched over almost the entire English
Premier League break, with the new season starting in two weeks. But Paddy
Dominguez, of Neill's management company Inspire Sports, said the Australian
was not going to be rushed into making a decision on his future. "He will
take as much time as he needs to make the right decision for himself and his
family and announce his decision when he is ready," Dominquez said. If Neill
does remain with the Hammers, Zola must decide whether to give him back the
captaincy or leave it with defender Matthew Upson, who took the reins in the
side's pre-season campaign.

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Lucas Neill tipped to stay at West Ham
By Liam Fitzgibbon From: AAP August 03, 2009 3:15PM
DailyTelegraph.com.au

SOCCEROOS captain Lucas Neill appears set to remain with West Ham and could
finalise a new deal with the English Premier League club in the next 24
hours. The 31-year-old defender had looked certain to leave the club after
his contract expired at the end of last season and he rejected a contract
extension which required him to take a pay cut. But reports in the English
press suggest Neill's representative will meet with West Ham officials at
Upton Park to iron out a new deal. Neill had been linked with a move to
Turkish giants Galatasaray, where he would have joined fellow Socceroo Harry
Kewell, as well as cashed-up Manchester City, but the Hammers always
remained hopeful of retaining their club captain. "Lucas Neill is talking
with the club," manager Gianfranco Zola said this week. "We need obviously
to have some negotiations, but I am hoping that he is going to join us as
soon as possible. "He was an important player last year and our aim this
year is to work to improve how we did last season and we hope that he will
make his decision."
Speculation of Neill's future has stretched over almost the entire English
Premier League break, with the new season starting in two weeks. But Paddy
Dominguez, of Neill's management company Inspire Sports, said the Australian
was not going to be rushed into making a decision on his future. "He will
take as much time as he needs to make the right decision for himself and his
family and announce his decision when he is ready," Dominquez said. If Neill
does remain with the Hammers, Zola must decide whether to give him back the
captaincy or leave it with defender Matthew Upson, who took the reins in the
side's pre-season campaign. Meanwhile, Portsmouth are still reportedly close
to signing Mark Viduka on a one-year deal.

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Zola happy to retain Neill
Sport.co.uk
Author: Andrew Allen
Posted on:02 August 2009 - 2:25 PM

Reports suggest Australia international Lucas Neill could be set to sign a
new contract with West Ham United.The former Blackburn Rovers defender is a
free agent after rejecting the Hammers' offer of a new deal earlier in the
summer. However, as Neill is still without a club, West Ham boss Gianfranco
Zola has not ruled out the possibility of the 31-year-old returning to Upton
Park. "Lucas Neill is talking with the club," Zola confirmed to Sky Sports
News. "We need obviously to have some negotiations, but I am hoping that he
is going to join us as soon as possible. "I know his name has been linked to
other clubs. Last time I spoke to the player, he told me that if anything
could happen he would call me first. So far, he has not called me, so I
assume he is not yet going anywhere. "He was an important player last year,
and our aim this year is to work to improve how we did last season and we
hope that he will make his decision." Neill has spent the last two seasons
with the east London club, featuring in 89 matches.

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