Daily WHUFC News - WHUFC Statement

West Ham United statement
WHUFC.com
An independent barrister's investigation has revealed its findings regarding
preferred bidder status
03.08.2011

An independent barrister's investigation has found nothing that compromises
the integrity of the decision to make West Ham United the preferred bidder
for the Olympic Stadium. The club tasked external counsel from the highly
prestigious Blackstone Chambers to conduct the in-depth process. The inquiry
was launched last month and considered the work undertaken by Dionne Knight
on behalf of the club in relation to the procurement of a construction
partner after the 2012 Olympic Games. It concluded firmly that Ms Knight's
work had in no way affected the integrity of the joint West Ham
United-London Borough of Newham bid which was approved by the Olympic Park
Legacy Company. The findings - which completely exonerate the club over the
matter and showed it acted lawfully at all times - came after the
consideration of all relevant correspondence and documentation, along with
statements from all relevant officials. The barrister had total and
unfettered access to all emails and other documents sent and received, along
with any information required. The report found no confidential information
was passed by the OPLC to West Ham United through Ms Knight. Similarly, it
found that no person at the club has at any point considered themselves to
have an improper source of information or influence within the OPLC. With
regard to Ms Knight, by far the bulk of the invoiced work took place after
the decision of the OPLC to confer preferred bidder status and consisted of
the transparent preparation of extensive procurement-related documentation.

West Ham United have handed over the contents of the entire independent
investigation to the OPLC as they are conducting their own separate inquiry
into the matter.
Separately, West Ham remain in contact with Police with regard to the
serious matter of a private investigator acting unlawfully, reportedly under
instruction by Tottenham Hotspur.

This matter is being treated with the utmost seriousness by the club,
especially given the methods claimed to have been used to obtain this
personal information in relation to reported breaches of the Data Protection
Act as a result of the unlawful acquisition of bank and telephone records
belonging to senior executives at the club and the OPLC.

This activity, if proven, constitutes serious criminal conduct and can
attract custodial sentences for perpetrators of the crime. In addition to
the Police, the matter is also now in the hands of the Information
Commissioner's Office, which investigates allegations of data protection
offences.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 3rd August 2011

Julien looks back
WHUFC.com
The latest Hammers favourite to speak to the West Ham TV cameras is Julien Faubert
02.08.2011

Julien Faubert has been one of the bright spots of the Hammers summer. The flying Frenchman sat down with the West Ham TV cameras today to reflect on his five favourite matches. Faubert had plenty to choose from, having played at the highest level in France and Europe with RC Girondins de Bordeaux. He also scored on his international debut for Les Bleus and there was the small matter of a season's best performance from any Hammer against Hull City two campaigns ago. Of that latter memory, he said: "I gave a great pass to Carlton and I scored as well. It also came just after the bad time when I lost my mum. I remember this well because I had all the support from my fans and team-mates. I hope to have some new things to remember this season."

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Hammers draw at Sutton
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon's youngsters earned a creditable 2-2 draw away to Sutton United on Tuesday
03.08.2011

West Ham United's development squad continued their steady progress this summer with a 2-2 draw at Sutton United on Tuesday. The Ryman Premier League champions had the edge in terms of experience against a youthful Hammers squad but Ian Hendon's team put up a spirited performance. None of the Academy aces on view had tasted first-team action for West Ham United but that did not stop them ultimately ensuring it finished honours even. Anthony Riviere put Sutton one up, only for Robert Hall to equalise with a fine long-range effort - his third strike in two matches. It was all-square at the break before substitute Dominic Vose put Hendon's side in front with another well-taken goal. However, Sam Page was able to head a Sutton equaliser and the home side continued to make it a competitive contest right to the end. The development squad are still without the injured Jordan Brown and Matt Fry, while Hendon continues to give plenty of match experience to the new intake of Under-18s, including young forward Elliott Lee.

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Jordan's Bristol-bound
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 3rd August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Academy graduate Jordan Spence is poised to return to Bristol City on loan. The 21-year-old right-back looked set to be involved in Sam Allardyce's first team plans for the forthcoming Championship campaign after featuring heavily in pre-season. However with Joey O'Brien now signed on permanent terms - backed up by Julien Faubert - Allardyce appears to have reached the conclusion that Spence would be better off playing regular football at Ashton Gate, where he spent three months on loan last season. Spence, communicating via his Twitter account said tonight: "Back in Bristol," - before later tweeting "a loan deal has been agreed". However that second message had disappeared by the early hours of the morning (Wednesday) and KUMB.com understands that the deal - whilst likely to be confirmed shortly - is yet to be rubber-stamped.

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Birmingham City sign ex-West Ham man Jonathan Spector
Page last updated at 11:53 GMT, Tuesday, 2 August 2011 12:53 UK
BBC.co.uk

Birmingham City have signed US international Jonathan Spector on a free transfer. The 25-year-old defender, who has signed a two-year deal at Blues, left West Ham United in June. The Illinois-born player, who can also feature in midfield, began his career in England with Manchester United. He went on to make eight appearances for the Old Trafford side, before signing for the Hammers in 2006, making 111 appearances for the London side. Spector is the seventh new arrival at St Andrew's, with his signing coming after manager Chris Hughton bemoaned his side's lack of depth. The versatile former Charlton loanee was picked up by Manchester United scouts after being spotted playing for the USA's Under-17 side. Despite three years at Old Trafford, he failed to win a regular first team place, and joined Charlton on loan in 2005 before arriving at Upton Park on a permanent deal in 2006.

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Where next for Upson?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 2nd August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Of the 16 players either sold or released by West Ham since the end of last season only five are still without a new club. And the most high profile of those is former club captain Matthew Upson who, despite being linked with a string of lower half Premier League clubs throughout the summer, is still yet to sign for anyone.
In addition to Upson, fellow internationals Lars Jacobsen and Thomas Hitzlsperger are yet to secure new contracts. German international Hitzlsperger has been strongly linked with a move to Wolves in the past week although like Upson, he remains a free agent.

Meanwhile the majority of the Academy youngsters released by the club have landed contracts elsewhere - including midfielder Anthony Edgar (Yeovil) and Holmar Eyjolfsson (Bochum).

The dear departed

Premier League

Demba Ba: Newcastle Utd (free transfer)
Wayne Bridge: Manchester City (end of loan)
Kieron Dyer: QPR (free transfer)
Danny Gabbidon: QPR (free transfer)
Robbie Keane: Tottenham (end of loan)

The Championship

Jonathan Spector: Birmingham City (free transfer)

League One

Anthony Edgar: Yeovil Town (free transfer)

European Leagues

Manuel Da Costa: Locomotiv Moscow (Russian Premier League, €1.5m)
Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson: VfL Bochum (Bundesliga 2, free transfer)
Radoslav Kovac: FC Basel (Swiss Super League, £500,000)
Victor Obinna: Lokomotiv Moscow (Russian Premier League, end of loan)

Unattached

Thomas Hitzlsperger; Lars Jacobsen; Matthew Upson.

Filip Modelski is currently on trial with GKS Belchatow (Poland) whilst the whereabouts of Adam Street, who returned to Canada earlier in the year are currently unknwon.

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Gradel: Leeds haven't offered me a new deal
Published 22:40 02/08/11 By Football Spy
The Mirror

Max Gradel has revealed Leeds have yet to offer him a new contract as he mulls over his future. The £5million-rated winger is wanted by West Ham, Fulham, Swansea and Newcastle after his 18-goal haul last season. Gradel, 23, wants to fire Leeds back into the Premier League, but is out of contract next summer and said: "I can't sign a deal when there is no deal. "I've been waiting for a contract but I haven't been offered a new deal yet. "My wish was to do it as early as possible, like, last January, but unfortunately it's not down to me, it's down to the club. I've said I want to take this club to the Premier League, but you can't guarantee what's going to happen. "Every player is working hard on the pitch because he has a target and that target is not just to play for Leeds, but to play in the top league. "It would be great if it was Leeds, but I want to play in the Premier League." Leeds fans have seen Jermaine Beckford, Bradley Johnson and Neil Kilkenny leave on free transfers because they were not tied down to new deals. They fear the same will happen with prize pair Gradel and Robert Snodgrass, whose contract ends in 2013, unless they get promotion. Gradel, whose side open up their Championship campaign at Southampton on Saturday, added: "It's a strange and difficult situation, but I just want to focus on playing. It's a big challenge to follow on from last season, but my aim is to score more than 18 goals. "I will have more pressure, but that doesn't worry me. I had a good season but will try to do better."

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Foxes join Hammers in hunt to sign Long from Reading
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 12:28 PM on 2nd August 2011
Daily Mail

Leicester manager Sven Goran Eriksson has joined West Ham in the race to sign Shane Long after he admitted it would be a 'dream' to sign the Reading striker.
Eriksson expects the 24-year-old to be snapped up by a Barclays Premier League side after he scored 23 goals in the Championship last season but is still hoping he can convince him to move to the King Power Stadium. The former England manager will also no doubt have been encouraged by the Republic of Ireland international's comments of last week when he said he would consider a move to West Ham. The Hammers, who were relegated from the top-flight last season, had a £6million bid for Long rejected by the Royals last week but the Londoners have yet to come back with an improved offer. That has given Eriksson hope he may be able to land Long as he is desperate for a proven goal-scorer. The Tipperary native has just one year remaining his contract and is valued by Reading at £8m. Long would become Leicester's record signing if they were successful in bringing him to the King Power Stadium as it would eclipse the £5.5m they paid Reading for defender Matt Mills last month. The former England manager, otherwise, has warned that unless the Foxes sign a 'big name' they can forget about promotion to the Premier League this season. When asked about the possibility of signing Long, Eriksson confirmed: 'To be honest, he is one on the list, but he may end up in the Premier League this season, so it will be difficult, but he is one we have worked with. 'We are working on taking in one or two more and if we are going to do that it is going to be a big name, important players otherwise we are not going to do anything. We are working on it and it would be a dream to take in someone who can score over 20 goals.'

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Allardyce hints at West Ham stay for Faubert and Ilunga
TalkSPort
By Alex Shaw
Tuesday, August 2

Sam Allardyce has hinted West Ham duo Herita Ilunga and Julien Faubert could yet have futures at the club having been impressed with their attitude in pre-season.
Fabuert was dumped from the West Ham squad in January last season and did not feature in a single game for the Hammers in the second half of the campaign.
The defender, 28, moved to Upton Park for around £6m in 2009 and spent a thoroughly underwhelming spell on loan at Real Madrid two seasons ago. He fell asleep while sitting on the substitutes bench during one match and only made two appearances in total.

Avram Grant chose not to play the Frenchman from the end of January onwards last season while Ilunga also missed the second half of the season as well.
But the duo are back in training and Allardyce has handed them a lifeline. "Certainly Julien Faubert has had some heavy criticism from a distance, I hear," Allardyce said. "He got frozen out of the squad last January, as well as Herita Ilunga but their application has been no problem for me at all. "And while they may consider their futures because of the way they have been treated before, their application to the team and the training has been no problem. "It's made it easy for me to consider them to play for West Ham. So I'm pleased about that."

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West Ham United chase Leeds United target Jlloyd Samuel
by Rob MacDonald. Published Tue 02 Aug 2011 15:00, Last updated: 2011-08-02
ClickLancashire.com

According to reports West Ham United are interested in Bolton Wanderers full-back Jlloyd Samuel. The People claims the 30-year-old spent last week training at the club's Chadwell Heath complex and impressed Allardyce sufficiently to be offered a deal by the Hammers. Left-back Samuel was a free agent after his four-year deal at the Reebok expired. He was loaned to Cardiff in March, but only played six games for the Bluebirds. Leeds United boss Simon Grayson had showed an interest in Samuel, but Allardyce stepped in and the player will be reunited with his former manager, and another of his old ­­team-mates, Kevin Nolan.

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West Ham are the most expensive club in the Championship BBC survey claims
9:46am Tuesday 2nd August 2011
Guardian Series
By Simon Mail »

West Ham are the most expensive club in the Championship, according to a BBC survey. The BBC website asked every club in the top four English divisions and the Scottish Premier League for their cheapest and most expensive adult tickets and their prices for a cup of tea, a programme, and a pie so they could work out the average cost of a day out. The Hammers' cheapest ticket is £32 and most expensive is £47. Their matchday programme costs £3.50 and they charge £3 for a pie and £1.80 for a cup of tea. This meant the average cost for a day out at Upton Park is £40.30. Blackburn Rovers offered the best deal in the Premier League at £17.50, Rochdale and Preston led the way in League One and Rotherham and Torquay in League Two, while Inverness are the best value for money in the Scottish Premier League. John Nagle, head of communications at the Football League, said attendances in recent years have been the highest for 50 years. The BBC report stated Arsenal have the most expensive ticket in domestic football at £100 for one of five category A games but despite the high prices in the top flight, the Premier League say grounds have been 92 per cent full in each of the last three seasons. Newcastle United were the only club out of the 104 surveyed who did not reveal their prices.

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Hammer time! Reading striker Long tells West Ham to come and get him
By STEVE SKERRY
Last updated at 9:56 AM on 2nd August 2011
Daily Mail

Shane Long has upped the ante in his bid to leave Reading, by admitting he would jump at the chance to join the Royals' Championship rivals West Ham. The Hammers had a £6million bid for the Republic of Ireland striker rejected last week, with the offer falling short of the £8m asking price slapped on the player by Reading, who have stated they will not sell the 24-year-old to a Championship club. 'I'm staying out of it and letting everybody else get on with it,' said Long. 'If it was true they were interested, West Ham are a big club, so it would definitely be something for me to think about.'

His enthusiasm to sign for West Ham is expected to see the Londoners return with an improved offer, although West Bromwich and Leicester are also interested.
The Ireland international insists he is not 'dying' to leave the Madejski Stadium and claimed he would be happy to see out the last remaining year of his contract.
Getting a move back to the Premier League is Long's priority but with no top-flight sides seemingly stepping up their interest in him at the moment, a move to East London could be his best option. 'I wouldn't be that disappointed if nothing happened and I stayed at Reading,' he said. 'I'm happy here and I like playing under the manager [Brian McDermott]. If an offer comes in and the club accepted it then that's different but I'm not dying to get out.'

Reading rate Long at £8m and are willing to hold out until they get their price. West Ham legend Paolo Di Canio hopes his former club sign Long as he believes the striker can help win them promotion back to the Barclays Premier League. The Italian, now manager at Swindon Town, watched in awe at Long's display which saw him score from the penalty against his side in the Royals' 2-1 pre-season win at the County Ground at the weekend. Di Canio, who spent four seasons with the Hammers, making more than 100 appearances and scoring close to 50 goals, says there is no doubt the Irishman is capable of playing in the top-flight this season.
He said: 'He can play at the top level and I followed him last year. He is a clever player and has great skill and ability who could play in a Premier League side. West Ham are no longer in the Premier League, but I hope they can sign him because he is an intelligent striker. He would be a good signing for West Ham.'

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We've still not received any bids for Parker, insists Hammers boss Allardyce
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 9:31 AM on 2nd August 2011
Daily Mail

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has revealed that the club have not had any offers for midfielder Scott Parker. The England international was expected to be snapped up quickly this summer after the Hammers' relegation from the Barclays Premier League with Aston Villa and Chelsea both linked with the player. But Allardyce insists West Ham have received no bids and it now looks increasingly likely that Parker, who was so impressive last season, will start Sunday's Championship opener against Cardiff. Although the former Bolton boss admits he is planning for life without the 30-year-old as he expects that a Premier League club may come in for him once the season has started. Allardyce claims Parker is desperate to play in the top-flight and could still leave before the summer transfer window slams shut on August 31. 'I'm planning for life with and without Scott Parker,' said Allardyce. 'If the right club comes with the right money then we are going to release Scott because he wants to play in the Premier League. We do need the finances that will bring.'

Allardyce did reveal that West Ham had received bids for striker Carlton Cole, who has turned down a move to Stoke, and goalkeeper Robert Green. He described the offer for Green from West Bromwich as an 'insult'. We've only received a bid for Carlton Cole that was good enough for us to accept. We had an insult of a bid from West Brom for Robert Green and that was rejected straight away, but we haven't had any bid at all for Scott Parker at the moment. 'But that can all change when we get into August because people pick up injuries, they start to wonder whether they've got what they really need, the mayhem will continue until the end of August.'

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West Ham being favourites is no surprise
COMMENT ⋅ 2 AUG 11 ⋅ SEASON PREVIEW 2011/12 ⋅
NoNayNever.net

Michael Bailey takes a look at the teams which could be challenging for silverware at the end of the season and their summer acquisitions.

According to a leading bookmaker, the favourites for promotion are West Ham United. It's not surprising that they are up there and one signing really stands out when looking at their squad – Kevin Nolan. Brought to the club to presumably fulfil Scott Parker's role should he move on, Nolan will become the lynchpin of their side with his swashbuckling style and tough tackling. Big Sam has also brought in the likes of Abdoulaye Faye, Matt Taylor and Joey O'Brien to create a team more than capable of bouncing straight back into the Premier League.

Leicester City are only two signings short of being able to field a brand new team after their spending spree. Sven-Göran Eriksson has brought in a solid back line with the likes of Kasper Schmeichel, Sean St Ledger and Paul Konchesky coming in. Michael Johnson could well be the best signing of the nine to join the club. He's come in on a season long loan from Manchester City and should he stay injury free and get some game time under his belt he could easily be one of the best midfielders in the league.

Over at the City Ground, Nottingham Forest have only made two signings so far in the form of Andy Reid from Blackpool and Jonathan Greening from Fulham. Reid has obvious quality but his inability to keep his weight under control has been his biggest demon and this could be the main factor as to whether he'll be successful in his second spell at the club.

Newly-promoted Brighton could well be this season's surprise package. Having moved into the brand new Amex Stadium the club have paid out some serious cash to capture the likes of Craig Mackail-Smith, Will Hoskins and Will Buckley. Mackail-Smith is the man to keep an eye on having been linked with Premier League clubs Everton, QPR and Norwich. Having scored 35 goals last season for Peterborough United, it'll be interesting to see if he can reproduce this kind of return in the Championship.

With four weeks left before the transfer window closes it remains to be seen if some of the quieter clubs such as Middlesbrough, Southampton and obviously Burnley, make the moves that could well shape their season.

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Quinn ready for Hammers test
Tuesday 2nd August 2011 10:11
TeamTalk

Cardiff defender Paul Quinn has told manager Malky Mackay he is fit and ready for the season opener at West Ham on Sunday. Quinn proved his fitness by playing the full 90 minutes in an Under-21s match against Blue Square Bet South side Weston. The 26-year-old is now looking forward to helping the Bluebirds push for promotion again this year after narrowly missing out last season. "It was great to get the chance to play after being out for a while and I was delighted to play the whole 90 minutes at Weston," Quinn told the South Wales Echo. "I spoke to the manager and said if he needs me against West Ham, I'm ready. "It's going to be a long, hard Championship season and everybody in the squad is likely to be needed at some stage. I'm fit and available."

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Nolan: Hammers there to be shot at
Tuesday 2nd August 2011 10:18
TeamTalk

New signing Kevin Nolan has warned that teams will be out to claim a big scalp against West Ham, starting with Cardiff on the opening weekend. Nolan signed from Newcastle this summer and is determined to take the Hammers back to the Premier League at the first attempt. But the 29-year-old accepts a lot of clubs will treat any West Ham fixture like a cup final. "This club doesn't belong in the Championship and we have to make sure we don't stay here either," Nolan told the Western Mail. "Opposing teams will come to Upton Park looking for a major scalp. You're a team to be shot at. "But, if we apply ourselves on the pitch and get the supporters right behind us, I see no reason why we shouldn't be celebrating come April/May."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 2nd August 2011

Taylor talks to West Ham TV
WHUFC.com
Matt Taylor has told the club's official TV channel of his delight at
scoring on his Boleyn Ground debut
01.08.2011

Matt Taylor was all smiles after scoring on his Boleyn Ground bow. West Ham
United's new No14 gave the club's fans a taste of what they can expect from
him during an action-packed 70-minute run out in Saturday's 2-0 pre-season
victory over Real Zaragoza. Taylor capped a superb showing against the
Spaniards by scoring an opportunist goal from close-range and curling a
trademark free-kick against the upright. Speaking exclusively to West Ham
TV, the 29-year-old said he was encouraged by the Hammers' performance ahead
of Sunday's npower Championship kick-off against Cardiff City. "I thoroughly
enjoyed it," said Taylor, who will feature as the main interviewee in the
matchday programme for the visit of the Bluebirds. "I think it was a good
test for the team as well. "They kept the ball very well and I thought,
considering the conditions and it being warm, we moved it well and kept it
well and obviously it was nice to get a clean sheet and win our final game
before the season starts."

Taylor is clearly looking forward to working with manager Sam Allardyce, who
signed him previously when in charge at Bolton Wanderers. The left-sided
midfielder spoke glowingly about his new boss and the impact he will have on
the club. "You will see that the manager has brought a positive attitude in
with him with his personality and the way he is around the place - he has an
aura about him," he added.

Taylor's interview is just one of a host of exclusive interviews and
features to appear on West Ham TV in recent weeks. Over the past weekend,
the club's official online TV channel brought you the first exclusive
interview with new signing Joey O'Brien and post-match highlights and
reaction from assistant manager Neil McDonald following Saturday's victory.

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Development squad off to Sutton
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon's development squad will travel to Blue Square South side Sutton
United on Tuesday evening
01.08.2011

Marek Stech and Robert Hall are in West Ham United's development squad for a
pre-season match at Sutton United on Tuesday. Ian Hendon will take his young
side to Gander Green Lane to take on the Blue Square South side seeking to
build on a fine 3-1 win at Blue Square Premier outfit Ebbsfleet United on
Friday. England Under-18 striker Hall was on target twice in that victory,
while midfielder Olly Lee bagged his third goal in four pre-season
appearances. Tuesday's match will not only give Hendon another chance to
cast his eye over his young squad, but it will also give the Hammers an
opportunity to collect some silverware. The match is being played for the
President's Cup in memory of former Sutton president Andrew Letts, who was
involved with the club for more than 70 years until he passed away in the
summer of 2008. Alongside Stech, Hall and Lee, the development coach could
also call upon the services of young professionals Callum Driver, Sergio
Sanchez, Callum McNaughton, George Moncur, Sebastian Lletget and Paul
McCallum. Scholar Blair Turgott could also be on duty after helping England
to reach the quarter-finals of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Mexico earlier
this summer.

Tickets for Tuesday's game are priced at £10 Adults, £6 Concessions and £2
Under-16s. Parking at the stadium is free and available on a first-come,
first-served basis.

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Final countdown to Cardiff
WHUFC.com
The big kick-off is next Sunday and the manager is ready for the final push
of the summer
01.08.2011

Sam Allardyce will lead his team into the final week of pre-season on a high
ahead of Cardiff City's arrival for the big kick-off on Sunday. The manager
was pleased to see the team record a 2-0 win on Saturday against Real
Zaragoza, with Matt Taylor and Freddie Sears on target. There was yet
another clean sheet at the back and encouraging signs throughout the side,
with new skipper Kevin Nolan, Mark Noble and Scott Parker especially looking
an effective trio in the centre. Allardyce knows the only thing that matters
is what happens from next Sunday onwards and is looking forward to a bumper
Boleyn Ground crowd urging the team on from the stands.
"Our efforts have all been to get us to this point," he said. "I know we
will not be the finished article yet but the aim is to make sure we are
ready to go next weekend. We will then look to improve with every passing
week. "While we are on a good unbeaten run and I am happy with four
successive clean sheets, pre-season is not about results. The only way to
judge if it has been a good summer will be after we have completed our first
ten league games."

The manager described the "special feeling" ahead of the start of a new
season and he has plenty of reason for optimism. His squad will be boosted
by Abdoulaye Faye returning to full training this week after hamstring
trouble, while Jack Collison should also be involved after a minor knock
last week. Julien Faubert was substituted on Saturday as a precaution after
feeling tightness in his hamstring. Junior Stanislas is also back after a
groin problem but Jordan Brown is out for a month with an ankle injury.

The development squad will have two friendlies this week away to Sutton
United and Grays Athletic on Tuesday and Thursday respectively, and the
manager could look again at his trialists Mikael Forssell and Jlloyd Samuel,
who impressed at the weekend. He will also continue to run the rule over new
transfer targets, with joint-Chairman David Gold pledging that at least a
striker will arrive to join Nolan, Taylor, Faye and Joey O'Brien. He said:
"I can say for certain that we will at least bring in another striker. We
will not leave a stone unturned to get the players Sam wants, as was the
case with those we have brought in already."

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Pre-season pitch minutes: final table
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2011
By: Staff Writer

James Tomkins has finished top of the pre-season 'match minutes' table. The
table - which represents the total number of minutes each player has spent
on the field during pre-season - has been topped by a trio of young
defenders hoping to play a major role in West Ham United's 2011/12
Championship campaign. James Tomkins, Jordan Spence and Winston Reid took
the top three spots - whilst fellow youngsters Jordan Brown and Cristian
Montano, perhaps the highlight of pre-season, took spots in the top ten. Of
the 38 players used in the first team's pre-season programme, only two -
right back Spence and left midfielder Montano - have featured in all seven
fixtures.

Sam Allardyce gave opportunities to four triallists during pre-season - Joey
O'Brien, Jose Hernani, Alex Lopez and Jlloyd Samuel - with O'Brien the only
one to sign a permanent deal at this stage (talks with Samuel are expected
to continue later this week).

Pre-season pitch minutes: final table

Last position and number of appearances in brackets. Matches played: Young
Boys 2 West Ham Utd 1; FC Basel 2 West Ham Utd 1; Bishops Stortford 0 West
Ham Utd 3; Copenhagen 0 West Ham Utd 1; Wycombe 0 West Ham Utd 0; Dagenham &
Redbridge 0 West Ham Utd 1; West Ham Utd 2 Real Zaragoza 0.

1. (2) James Tomkins (5) 383
2. (1) Jordan Spence (7) 379
3. (4) Winston Reid (5) 357
4. (12) Robert Green (4) 315
5. (7) Joey O'Brien (6) 307
6. (10) Freddie Piquionne (5) 306
7. (8) Julien Faubert (5) 289
8. (13) Kevin Nolan (4) 285
9. (3) Jordan Brown (6) 274
10. (5) Cristian Montano (7) 272

11. (17) Mark Noble (4) 269
12. (6) Luis Boa Morte (4) 256
13. (9) Herita Ilunga (4) 248
14. (11) Freddie Sears (5) 246
15. (15) Scott Parker (4) 244
16. (14) Frank Nouble (6) 205
17. (16) Olly Lee (4) 180
18. (17) Jack Collison (3) 180
18. (17) George Moncur (3) 180
20. (20) Marek Stech (2) 180

21. (21) Robert Hall (4) 163
22. (23) Carlton Cole (4) 155
23. (27) Pablo Barrera (2) 141
24. (22) Ruud Boffin (2) 135
25. (31) Matt Taylor (2) 133
26. (24) Junior Stanislas (3) 119
27. (25) Callum McNaughton (2) 110
28. (26) Seb Lletget (2) 106
29. (27) Jose Hernani - triallist (1) 90
30. (-) Jlloyd Samuel - triallist (1) 79

31. (29) Abdoulaye Faye (2) 77
32. (30) Sergio Sanchez (2) 73
33. (32) Ahmed Abdulla (2) 56
34. (33) Callum Driver (2) 48
35. (34) Zavon Hines (1) 45
36. (35) Matthew Fry (1) 28
36. (35) Paul McCallum (1) 28
38. (37) Alex Lopez - triallist (1) 19

Unused: Peter Kurucz, Gary O'Neil (injured).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jordan set for lengthy lay off
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Jordan Brown is out for around a month after sustaining an ankle injury
against Dagenham & Redbridge. The 19-year-old full-back had been hoping that
2011/12 would be his breakthrough season, having been included in Sam
Allardyce's first team squad pre-season programme. With Wayne Bridge
returning to Manchester City at the end of his loan spell back in May, the
left back slot was up for grabs with Herita Ilunga - himself with much to
prove - Brown's only challenger. However the Benfleet-born former Academy
trainee has had to put his plans on ice after being told that he will be out
of action until the end of August. Brown, who sustained the injury after an
hour of West Ham's 1-0 win at Victoria Road last Tuesday night was left on
crutches as a result and will now miss the beginning of West Ham's 2011/12
campaign. Sam Allardyce - who is currently looking to strengthen the
left-back slot - has since signed Matt Taylor who can also operate on the
left side of defence.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Forssell hoping to fill striker void
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Mikael Forssell is hoping to sign a permanent contract with West Ham later
this week. The 30-year-old Finnish international striker, who made his name
at Chelsea, arrived at Chadwell Heath a week ago for an extended trial
period. Having trained with West Ham's first team squad all week, Forsell
was unlucky not to be considered for the team that beat Real Zaragoza 2-0 at
the Boleyn Ground on Saturday. However he is still hoping to secure a
permanent contract at United before the Championship kick-off this weekend.
Born in Germany, Forssell - who is unlikely to feature at Sutton tomorrow
night, despite reports elsewhere to the contrary - began his career with
Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi (aka HJK) of Finland before moving to England in
order to join Chelsea in 1998. After seven years and just 33 appearances
for the Blues - a spell that included loan spells at Crystal Palace,
Borussia Monchengladbach and Birmingham - the 6' striker completed a
permanent £3million switch to Birmingham in 2005. When City were relegated
from the Premier League in 2008, Forssell joined German side Hannover 96 on
a free transfer, where he remained until his release from Die Roten at the
end of last season. Sam Allardyce admitted earlier today that his only
concern regarding his current squad is in attack. "There may be an element
of have we got enough goals in the squad," he told Talksport. "Everywhere
else seems fine as far as I'm concerned."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker to go - but not on the cheap
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce has confirmed that Scott Parker will leave West Ham - but only
if the club receive an offer to match their valuation of the English
international. Allardyce, speaking this lunchtime with Talksport confirmed
that Parker will be sold before the end of the transfer window deadline on
condition that the club receive the £7million fee they are holding out for.
"We haven't had a bid at all for Scott at the moment," he said. "That can
all change when we get into August because people start picking up injuries,
players get transferred more and more from different clubs and the mayhem
will continue until 31st August. "If the right club comes with the right
money we are going to release Scott because he wants to play in the Premier
League and we do need the finances that [his sale] will bring. "At the
moment the money we have spent has been provided by the owners which I'm
very grateful for. It's not coming from within the club but their own
private money so they are backing me in that sense 100 per cent."

Allardyce also revelaed that Parker's two fellow English internationals -
Carlton Cole and Robert Green - look set to start the season at the Boleyn,
at the very least least. "We've certainly only received a bid for Carlton
Cole which was good enough for us to accept," he added. "In terms of Robert
Green we had what I considered an insult of a bid from West Brom and that
was completely rejected straight away."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boa Morte departs
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st August 2011
By: Staff Writer

Luis Boa Morte has parted company with West Ham United. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce revealed this lunchtime that the former Arsenal and Fulham
midfielder, who joined West Ham in January 2007 and is in the final year of
his current two-year contract has left the club. Speaking with Talksport
about his squad for the coming season, Allardyce said: "People don't seem to
think that we've lost too many players. But we've lost 15 players with Luis
Boa Morte having moved to Portugal now."
Boa Morte, who is 34 later this week is understood to have returned to his
home country to spend time with his family prior to completing a move
abroad. He confirmed his decision to leave recently having been told by Sam
Allardyce that he is surplus to requirements.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham plan for Parker exit
Still not bids for England international, but sale is expected
Last Updated: August 1, 2011 4:29pm
SSN

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce insists that there have still not been any
bids for Scott Parker, but he is planning for life without the England
international. The midfielder is set to be in the Hammers' starting line-up
for Sunday's season opener against Cardiff, however, Allardycebelieves that
will change once the season gets under way. He also admits striker Carlton
Cole, who recently turned down a move to Stoke, and goalkeeper Robert Green
could be on their way out of Upton Park before the end of August. "I'm
planning for life with and without Scott Parker," said Allardyce. "If the
right club comes with the right money then we are going to release Scott
because he wants to play in the Premier League. We do need the finances that
will bring. "We've only received a bid for Carlton Cole that was good enough
for us to accept. We had an insult of a bid from West Brom for Robert Green
and that was rejected straight away, but we haven't had any bid at all for
Scott Parker at the moment. "But that can all change when we get into August
because people pick up injuries, they start to wonder whether they've got
what they really need, the mayhem will continue until the end of August."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan hopes to keep Parker
West Ham skipper looking for boost
Last Updated: August 1, 2011 3:03pm
SSN

New West Ham skipper Kevin Nolan is desperate for midfielder Scott Parker to
remain at Upton Park. Parker was expected to leave the Hammers this summer
after attracting the interest of several Premier League clubs with his
magnificent performances last season. However, manager Sam Allardyce
revealed last week there had still been no offers for the England
international. Parker is now poised to begin the new Championship campaign
with West Ham after featuring in their pre-season friendly victory over Real
Zaragoza on Saturday.

Fantastic

Nolan, who arrived from Newcastle last month, admits it would be a great
boost for West Ham to hold on to Parker until the transfer window closes at
the end of August. He told the local Guardian: "We've got some top players
and if we manage to keep hold of Scotty it's going to be fantastic for us.
"Obviously we hope the five weeks can fly by and from a selfish point of
view we can have him here for the season. "I know that he's happy here and
he loves the club. So hopefully we'll be able to keep him just on the basis
of that."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers target striker signing
Gold says no stone is being left unturned in player search
Last Updated: August 1, 2011 12:37pm
SSN

West Ham United chairman David Gold has confirmed the club will sign a new
striker before the close of the transfer window. New manager Sam Allardyce
has been busy bolstering his squad since taking charge at Upton Park, but he
has yet to make an attacking addition. Allardyce has brought in Kevin Nolan,
Abdoulaye Faye, Matt Taylor and Joey O'Brien, and is considering handing a
contract to full-back Jlloyd Samuel. A striker is also on the agenda, with
the Hammers having seen a bid for Shane Long rejected, while Jermaine
Beckford and John Carew have also been linked with moves to the club.
However, a more likely option has emerged as former Chelsea forward Mikael
Forssell is on trial with the club and could get a run-out against Sutton
United. And, with Carlton Cole's future at the club still uncertain, Gold
revealed West Ham are pressing ahead with plans to bring in a new face up
front. "I can say for certain we will at least bring in another striker,"
Gold told the club's official website. "We will not leave a stone unturned
to get the players Sam wants, as was the case with those we have already
brought in."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
My Joe Cole Dilemma
August 1st, 2011 - 12:42 pm by Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die

I'm in something of a dilemma. The rumours about an Upton Park return for
Joe Cole have resurfaced. My heart says yes, wonderful news, get him back
home as soon as possible. But my head says hang on a cotton pickin' minute.
Would this really be a good move for him or indeed us?

On his day, Joe Cole is sublime, still one of the best players in the
country. I remember his Upton Park debut as if it were yesterday. He was a
kid who we'd waited to see for a very long time. But within four years he
was off. Ands for only £6 million. We were all gutted to see a player who
had so much potential ripped from our clutches. You couldn't blame him, of
course. But he didn't really rip up the flowerbeds at Chelsea. Too often he
was dropped while in the middle of a good run of form. No one could really
identify his best position. England had the same issues.

In the end he left for Liverpool, expecting to restart his career. Instead
he has found the going tough. He is clearly unhappy and not the player he
was.

I have no idea whether he would consider dropping down a division and coming
back to his spiritual home. But if he did, Sam Allardyce would need to be
clear from the start where he would fit in to his formation. But here's the
good news. Sam seems to want to play a 4-5-1 formation, which would leave
Joe Cole able to enjoy the kind of free role he used to enjoy at West Ham
but never could at Chelsea or Liverpool.

So on balance I'd love to have Joe Cole back, but the question remains,
would he come?

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kevin Nolan: West Ham clash is cup final for Cardiff City
by Steve Tucker, Western Mail
Aug 2 2011

WEST HAM midfielder Kevin Nolan has told Cardiff City to forget about taking
a "major scalp" on Sunday. Malky Mackay's Bluebirds begin their Championship
campaign with what looks like a tough trip to Upton Park. Indeed, the size
of the Bluebirds' task in east London is perhaps summed up by the capture of
Nolan by new Hammers boss Sam Allardyce on a £4m deal from Premiership
outfit Newcastle. Allardyce has also tempted winger Matt Taylor to make the
drop down to the Championship from his former club Bolton. And the
newly-relegated Hammers still boast England international midfielder Scott
Parker and goalkeeper Rob Green in their ranks. Nolan believes a club the
size of West Ham has no business being in the second-tier and admits
anything but an instant return to the top flight for his new club would be a
disaster. "We have to come out all guns blazing," said Nolan. "We have to
hit the ground running, there is no hiding place for us. "The stakes are
high and there is immense pressure on us. "But the time for feeling sorry
for yourselves following relegation from the Premier League has long since
passed. "The least we should expect is promotion. Anything else will merely
be an unmitigated disaster for this club. "This club doesn't belong in the
Championship and we have to make sure we don't stay here either."

Nolan is expecting a stern test from Cardiff and, in a pattern he expects to
be repeated throughout the season, he believes the Bluebirds will be
treating the game as something of a 'cup final'. "Everyone will want to beat
us, this will be their biggest game of the campaign," added Nolan. "Opposing
teams will come to Upton Park looking for a major scalp. You're a team to be
shot at. "But, if we apply ourselves on the pitch and get the supporters
right behind us, I see no reason why we shouldn't be celebrating come
April/May."

Nolan experienced the trauma of relegation with Newcastle two seasons ago
and he is the first to admit the Championship is not an easy league to
escape. But just like the Magpies, Nolan insists West Ham are capable of
bouncing straight back to the top tier. "There are striking similarities
between West Ham and Newcastle, the pressure and expectations are exactly
the same," said Nolan, who has been installed as the Hammers' skipper. "When
Newcastle went down some people expected us to struggle, but we re-grouped
and had a right go. "We knew we had to either get out of the Championship
straight away or face being stuck there for years to come.
"It was a make-or-break situation for us in much the same way it is for West
Ham. "You don't have a divine right to win promotion no matter how big the
club are.
"You have to earn the right. No-one is going to do you any favours."

One man who agrees with that analysis is Nolan's manager Allardyce, who was
instrumental in tempting the 29-year-old Liverpudlian south following their
successful time together at Bolton. Allardyce, who replaced the sacked Avram
Grant this summer, admits he is unsure how his side will fare in the
Championship, but believes he has enough quality at his disposal to do the
job. "The real action starts on Sunday," he said. "We'll find out what it's
all about when Cardiff come to us. "I am happy with the squad. It's never
been about quality in the squad, it's more a lack of direction and
man-management. "My job is bringing everybody together, that's all part of
the job of getting success on the pitch. "We are going to play as
entertaining football as possible with the emphasis on winning. "There is
huge pressure on me to deliver first time, but then I put pressure on
myself, it's part of the job. "One element I am looking at is whether we
have enough goals in the squad. Will we finish off teams when we have the
chance? "And if we can't finish them off, will we get away with it more in
the Championship than we did in the Premiership? I'll be honest, I'm not too
sure yet."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jlloyd now a West Ham player
Published: Tue, 2011-08-02 20:42
Guardian.co.tt

Sam Allardyce has upped the ex-Bolton contingent at West Ham United by
signing Soca Warriors left back Jlloyd Samuel. The 30-year-old San
Fernando-born Samuel spent last week training at the club's Chadwell Heath
complex and impressed Allardyce sufficiently to be offered a deal by the
Hammers.

Left-back Samuel was a free agent after his four-year deal at the Reebok
expired. He was loaned to Cardiff in March, but only played six games for
the Bluebirds. Leeds boss Simon Grayson had showed an interest in Samuel,
but Allardyce stepped in and the player will be reunited with his former
manager, and another of his old team-mates, Kevin Nolan.

Big Sam jetted to France last night to look at the Gabon international Eric
Mouloungui. The 27-year-old was due to be in action for Nice against Udinese
in a friendly game. The Hammers chief is still looking to strengthen his
attack and he is keeping an eye on El Hadji Diouf's future at Blackburn.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
LONG SHOT ON SHANE FOR SAM ALLARDYCE
Daily Star
2nd August 2011 By Rodney White

WEST HAM target Shane Long has opened the door on a move to Upton Park.
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has had a £5m bid for Long rejected by Reading.
But he is expected to come back with an increased offer this week as he
searches for the goalscorer he feels is needed to spearhead West Ham's bid
to secure an instant return to the Premier League. The Republic of Ireland
international revealed: "West Ham are a big club so it would definitely be
something for me to think about." Long is also wanted by West Brom and
Leicester, but the striker insists he is not desperate to leave Reading.
The 24-year-old added: "I would not be disappointed if nothing happened and
I stayed at Reading. "I am happy here and like playing under Brian
McDermott. I am not dying to get out."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Official: Former West Ham United forward Alessandro Diamanti joins Bologna
from Brescia
Aug 1, 2011 6:18:00 PM
Goal.com

Serie A club Bologna have signed former West Ham United striker Alessandro
Diamanti from relegated Brescia, the club announced via an official
statement on Monday. The 28-year-old was linked with a variety of clubs this
summer after his former side were relegated from the Italian top-flight.
Shakhtar Donetsk, Wolfsburg, Sampdoria and Fiorentina were all associated
with the Italian, but Bologna have landed him for next term. Details of the
transfer remain undisclosed, but a statement on Bologna's official website
reads: "Bologna FC 1909 communicates to have reached an agreement with
Brescia Calcio for the transfer of Alessandro Diamanti on a co-ownership
deal." Diamanti becomes the latest player to join Bologna following the
arrivals of goalkeepers Dejan Stojanovic from Lustenau and Federico Agliardi
from Padova two weeks ago.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers boss takes the GMF hot seat
West Ham - Sam Allardyce is 'feeling comfortable' ahead of the big kick off
By Mark Shail August 01, 2011
GiveMeFootball

West Ham's bid to return to the top flight at the first time of asking
begins in earnest this weekend when the Hammers host Cardiff City at Upton
Park. Manager Sam Allardyce has made a couple of key signings over the
summer after adding experienced pair Kevin Nolan and Matty Taylor to his
squad, although the future of the likes of Scott Parker, Carlton Cole and
Robert Green still remain unclear.

Givemefootball's Mark Shail logged the thoughts of 'Big Sam' as he prepared
for the big kick-off in the Npower Championship.

Q: HOW HAVE THE PRE-SEASON PREPARATIONS GONE?

A: I feel quite comfortable now and the lads have had a good pre-season.
There has been a lot of turmoil at the club prior to that but I think the
players have put all that to bed and we are all looking forward to the new
season.

The pre-season has gone pretty well, the new players have performed well and
the players that have remained with us are also performing well. But
pre-season is all well and good but we will find out more when we play
Cardiff.

Q: HAVE YOU BEEN PLEASANTLY SURPRISED WITH THE QUALITY OF THE SQUAD?

A: I have never doubted the quality, to be fair. You look at the players and
I just think they lacked a bit of direction and man-management. So bringing
everybody together is part of the job as well as getting things right behind
the scenes.

Kevin Nolan and Matty Taylor are Premier League players but it is a good
sign that they are prepared to make the step down because they want to play
for me and the club.

Q: HOW HAVE THE WEST HAM FANS TAKEN TO YOU?

A: Alright, I think. Everywhere I have been it has been great but the season
hasn't started yet. You always get that stuff in the media about the way my
teams play but if anyone had watched us against Real Zaragoza they will have
been entertained (in the 2-0 friendly win) - but the emphasis has to be on
producing winning football.

Q: IS THERE PRESSURE ON YOU TO TAKE THE CLUB BACK UP AT THE FIRST ATTEMPT?

A: Yes, and I put that pressure on myself. Obviously, you need that bit of
luck regarding injuries but I think the squad is pretty much covered – with
the possible exception of asking the question is there enough goals in the
side?

But I am comfortable with the squad at this stage and we are all looking
forward to the new campaign.

Q: ARE THERE LIKELY TO BE ANY MORE DEPARTURES BEFORE THE NEW SEASON?

A: I am not sure. We received a bid for Carlton Cole (from Stoke) which we
accepted (but personal terms could not be agreed) and West Brom made a bid
for Robert Green which we considered to be almost an insult and that was
rejected.

There has been no bid for Scott (Parker) as we stand but that could all
change now we are getting into August.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce: West Ham never considered Joe Cole move
By Alex Shaw
Monday, August 1
TalkSport

Sam Allardyce admits he did not consider rescuing Joe Cole from his
Liverpool nightmare because of the former West Ham star's wage demands. Cole
began his career at West Ham before making the move to Chelsea at the start
of the Roman Abramovich era. But his career has stalled since, with knee
injuries and a loss of form meaning the 29-year-old has struggled following
his switch to Liverpool. It was seen as something of a coup for Roy Hodgson
when he signed Cole on a free last summer but the midfielder was sent off on
his debut, missed a penalty in his second game and failed to establish
himself in the side since. Cole has been linked with a move away from
Merseyside following a disastrous year at Anfield but Allardyce, who begins
life back in the Championship with West Ham this Sunday when they host
Cardiff, can't help him. Asked whether he considered Cole, Allardyce said:
"Not particularly, purely and simply from a financial point of view. "I just
think it's impossible on the reputed £5m-a-year for us to even contemplate."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive - Allardyce: I'm planning for life with and without Parker
By Nick Rostron-Pike
Monday, August 1
TalkSPort

Sam Allardyce has admitted he is planning for life in the Championship with
and without Scott Parker. The England midfielder has been a target for both
Tottenham and Chelsea this summer, although the Hammers boss admitted they
are yet to receive a bid from either. Reports have emerged on Monday morning
that Parker will reject a move to Spurs in favour of staying with the Irons.
But speaking to Keys and Gray, Allardyce said: "I'm planning for life with
and without Scott Parker. "If the right club comes with the right money then
we are going to release Scott because he wants to play in the Premier
League. We do need the finances that [his sale] will bring."
Allardyce went on to admit that fellow England stars Robert Green and
Carlton Cole could also be on their way out of Upton Park. "We've only
received a bid for Carlton Cole that was good enough for us to accept," he
added. "We had an insult of a bid from West Brom for Robert Green and that
was rejected straight away but we haven't had any bid at all for Scott
Parker at the moment. "But that can all change when we get into August
because people pick up injuries, they start to wonder whether they've got
what they've really need, the mayhem will continue until the end of August."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan: Scott Parker loves West Ham and we need to keep him
Nathaniel John, West Ham correspondent
Monday, August 1, 2011
1:13 PM

West Ham's new captain Kevin Nolan has revealed how he desperately wants the
next five weeks to go quickly – so the club can keep hold of Scott Parker.
Nolan, who was confirmed as the Hammers' captain before Saturday's 2-0 win
against Real Zaragoza, told London24 that Parker was in fact happy at the
club. "I know that he is happy here and I know that he loves the club," he
said. "Hopefully we will be able to keep him here on the basis of that. "We
definitely want to keep hold of Scotty – it would be fantastic for us.
"Hopefully, from a selfish point of view, the next give weeks will fly by
and we can get the wins under our belts and then we can have him here for
the season. "If we can get that promotion, then I think Scotty will be
wanting to stay."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Scott Parker 'will snub Spurs for West Ham stay' as club close in on striker
Metro.co.uk

West Ham have been given a huge boost after reports midfielder Scott Parker
has told the club he will stay at Upton Park next season, with chairman
David Gold also delighting Hammers fans by promising to invest in a new
forward. Parker has been impressive for the Hammers during their pre-season
and was a standout performer in the club's 2-0 win over Spanish outfit Real
Zaragoza at the weekend. His commitment to the cause under new manager Sam
Allardyce has boosted hopes the 30-year-old will stay and the club's
transfer market activity in bidding for an immediate return to the Premier
League is also understood to be motivating him to remain in the claret and
blue. With things seemingly on the up under Allardyce, joint-chairman Gold
also vowed that the Hammers manager would be given the funds to bring in
another front-man to lead the line in the Championship. 'I can say for
certain that we will at least bring in another striker,' he said. 'We will
not leave a stone unturned to get the players Sam wants, as was the case
with those we have brought in already.' The promise by Gold suggests that
Carlton Cole is ready to move on after five seasons at West Ham and one
possible name being mooted is Birmingham striker Cameron Jerome. Jerome
didn't feature in Blues' recent friendly with Everton and his departure
wouldn't come as a surprise to new manager Chris Hughton, who has seen a
host of names walk out on the Midlands club following last season's
relegation.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Di Canio: West Ham should sign Reading FC striker Long
By Jonny Fordham
August 01, 2011

West Ham United favourite Paolo Di Canio has told his old club to sign Shane
Long after witnessing the Reading striker score against his new side Swindon
Town 2-1.
Long, who has been the subject of a failed bid from the Hammers, scored 25
goals last season as has carried on his good form in pre-season. The
24-year-old is also being tracked by a number of Premier League clubs, but
Swindon boss Di Canio hopes he goes to his beloved Hammers. The italian told
the Reading Post: "He can play at the top level and I followed him last
year. "He is a clever player and has great skill and ability who could play
in a Premier League side. "West Ham are no longer in the Premier League, but
I hope they can sign him because he is an intelligent striker. He would be a
good signing for West Ham." Follow Royals reporter Jonny Fordham on Twitter
here for all the news as it breaks Although Reading boss Brian McDermott
insisted Long wouldn't be sold to a Championship club, the player himself
has hinted he consider a move. With just one year left on his current deal,
Long reportedly said: "West Ham are a big club, so it would definitely be
something for me to think about. "But I wouldn't be that disappointed if
nothing happened and I stayed at Readinng. "I'm happy here and I like
playing under the manager. I'm not dying to get out."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 1st August 2011

JLS reports premature
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2011
By: Staff Writer

Contrary to reports in some newspapers, West Ham have not yet signed Jlloyd
Samuel. It was reported in at least two newspapers this morning that a deal
to sign the Trinidad and Tobago international had been completed. However
KUMB.com understands that those reports are premature with Sam Allardyce set
to make a final decision later in the week, ahead of the start of the
2011/12 Championship campaign against Cardiff City next weekend. Samuel made
his debut in claret and blue in the 2-0 win against Zaragoza yesterday.
Assistant manger Neil McDonald told whufc.com: "Jlloyd has got a good
pedigree and a good CV, so we've got him in, trained him for a couple of
days and got a good look at him on Saturday. "He's enjoyed what he's done
and we've enjoyed having him, so I'm sure the manager will sit down with him
and see what the situation is next week."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Djimi Djimi
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2011
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce could be set to land his fifth signing of the season in former
Liverpool full back Djimi Traore. The 31-year-old left back, who can also
operate in the centre of defence is currently available on a free transfer
after being released by French club Monaco at the end of last season.
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has, according to SkySports, flown to meet the
6'3" defender last night in order to discuss terms regarding a permanent
contract. The French-born Malian international began his career with Laval
where he spent three years before joining Liverpool in 1999 in a £500,000
deal. Having made only 88 first team appearances over the course of the
next seven years, Traore joined Charlton in 2006; the Addicks paying
£2million for his services. After a largely disappointing spell at the
Valley, Traore was on the move again a year later when he was snapped up by
Portsmouth. However that move also turned sour with the player sent out on
loan to Rennes and then-Championship side Birmingham. In 2009 Monaco snapped
up Traore on a free transfer. He was released following the culmination of
his two year contract with Les Rouge et Blanc at the end of the 2010/11
season having made just seven appearances last season.

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Allardyce aware of 'burden'
Hammers boss would expect sack if he fails to win promotion
Last Updated: July 31, 2011 3:11pm
SSN

Sam Allardyce feels he will be sacked if he fails to secure promotion back
to the Premier League during his first season in charge at West Ham United.
The former Bolton and Blackburn boss signed a two-year contract to succeed
Avram Grant in June after the Israeli was dismissed following the club's
relegation to the Championship. Allardyce has so far strengthened his squad
with four new signings ahead of a promotion push, with Kevin Nolan,
Abdoulaye Faye, Matt Taylor and Joey O'Brien all having played under him at
Bolton. He is aware of the expectations at West Ham this season and is
confident he can live up to the burden of securing an immediate return to
the top flight. "It is a massive burden on my shoulders but that's why I do
the job," said Allardyce. "It's my responsibility to get them there and if I
don't I'll be sacked [but] I've got the experience to get the best out the
players." Allardyce added: "We have got stability in the owners, they are
few and far between as they are from this country, their businesses are in
this country and they are West Ham fans."

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Nolan claims broken promises
Former Toon skipper claims he shook on a deal with Llambias
Last Updated: July 31, 2011 4:10pm
SSN

Kevin Nolan has revealed that a break down in trust with club officials
forced him to leave Newcastle. The midfielder surprisingly joined relegated
West Ham this summer after failing to agree the long-term contract extension
that he wanted at St James' Park. Nolan had been one of the most influential
captains in the Premier League last season, scoring 12 goals, but still
decided to move to Upton Park. The 29-year-old wanted to stay at Newcastle,
however, the club have claimed that he would not have justified a new
five-year contract. And Nolan claims that represents an unfulfilled promise,
as he said in the Sunday Mirror: "I envisaged spending the rest of my career
at the club. I was settled, happy and I adored the supporters. "Perhaps I
was just naive. I thought I had a good relationship with the board. But when
it all came to a head in the summer I knew my time was coming to an end."

Laughable

"But ultimately I was forced out because I lost trust in key people at the
club and when you lose trust in people it's almost impossible to regain it.
"From January and shortly following the sale of Andy Carroll to Liverpool, I
was involved in ongoing discussions about signing a new contract between
four and five years. "I discussed the deal at length with managing director
Derek Llambias and even shook hands on it. In my book when you do that
man-to-man you expect them to see it through.
"But what we talked about and what they finally offered me was laughable.
They did a U-turn on what we agreed. They showed me no respect. I felt
totally betrayed.
"Then they had the nerve to claim I rejected a new contract. What contract?
A deferred option to increase my deal by 12 months with a bonus that hinged
on the success of the team on the pitch the following season. "Perhaps I was
just naive. I thought I had a good relationship with the board. But when it
all came to a head in the summer I knew my time was coming to an end. "I had
given the club everything but they didn't want to give me anything in
return, just broken promises. I simply couldn't work with people like that.
There was no way back for me."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Should Freddie Sears play wide or as a second striker?
July 31st, 2011 - 10:57 pm by S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

Freddie Sears scored a good goal, on Saturday, in the 2-0 defeat of Real
Zaragoza. Following on from his excellent strike against FC Copenhagen,
Sears seems to really be getting his eye in nicely this pre-season. I
always felt that there were a lot more goals to come from Freddie. He is a
natural goal scorer, but some youngsters take a bit longer to make the
transition to first team football. Additionally, self-confidence is a big
factor in goal scoring and Sears appears to be rapidly acquiring it!

I suppose the interesting question is whether Sears' future is as an out and
out striker or a wide player, with the ability to regularly get in the box
and weigh in with his share of goals? I suspect that he may eventually
revert back to playing as a second striker, feeding off a target man. For
the time being, Sears should continue to play out wide. However, this could
change, especially if we fail to land Shane Long or another goal poacher to
play alongside Cole, Piquionne or Nouble. Perhaps the wide player/striker
dichotomy would be rendered irrelevant if Sears played in a 4-3-3, where he
both provided width and supported the main striker? Although I have a
feeling that Allardyce may not share Zola and Grant's preference for that
particular formation. Whatever, the club have been patient with Sears and
now is the time for the Academy product to start delivering the goods,
wherever he is deployed.

It now appears that JL. Samuel may join the club. He did well enough on
Saturday and he could be a good Bosman signing. We appear to be preparing
to go into the season with O'Brien and Spence covering the right-back spot.
Joey O'Brien could prove to be an inspired signing. He was a very good
prospect at Bolton and has been unlucky with injuries over the last two
years. Hopefully, his fitness problems are now over and Sam Allardyce can
help him get his career back on track. While I view Jordan Spence as
primarily a centre-back, who also has the ability to play at right
full-back. I sincerely hope that he gets some decent playing time at
right-back, this season, and the experience gained helps him secure his
future tenure at centre-back. Indeed, I have high hopes that the
Tomkins-Spence central defensive combination will eventually become a
fixture for West Ham Utd FC and, hopefully, England.

This is a big season for Mark Noble. He needs to really make the midfield
anchor role his own. With his vision and range of passing, he should do
very well there. However, he also needs to tighten up in defensive areas
and stop needlessly giving away silly free-kicks in dangerous positions. I
am sure that this is an aspect of his game that Sam Allardyce will help him
to rectify. As regards Scott Parker, will he stay or will he go? Basically,
the odds are that Spurs wil try to pull off a late deal, but will their,
likely, c4-5m offer meet West Ham's valuation? Spurs will state that it is
a fair fee for a 30 year old, with little sell on value; while West Ham will
stress that he is the Sports Writers Player of the Year and a current
England International. We shall see what transpires? If he does stay (even
if only until January) it will be a big boost to our automatic promotion
prospects. In contrast, Green and Cole look increasingly likely to stay
and, again, it will be an achievement if they do.

There is a load of loose talk doing the rounds at the moment about 'West Ham
Wanderers.' As I stated a few weeks ago, Allardyce is merely pursuing the
sensible policy of bringing in a core of new players that he knows and, more
importantly, who know each other. Putting together a new squad is
inevitably going to cause some dislocation and there may be a period before
it properly gels. What Allardyce is attempting to do is minimise that
dislocation by grafting an experienced core of former playing on to a
reconstituted and re-energised Hammers squad. Hopefully this strategy will
work in double quick time and help deliver good early season results.

Sam Allardyce is to be applauded for his work so far. He has made some good
signings, lifted the Hammers players from their post-relegation hangover,
given the youngsters ample opportunities to shine in pre-season and created
a new, positive ethos at the club. Tactically, he seems to be
familiarising the squad with playing two or three alternative formations and
is making good progress in addressing the fatal weaknesses exhibited last
season. We have tightened up at the back and Allardyce has, presumably,
impressed upon the whole squad the collective responsibility for defending
higher up the pitch. Indeed, in pre-season, West Ham have worked hard at
their pressing play when not in possession. Finally, Allardyce and his
support team have set about improving squad fitness levels. That physical
improvement should continue and pay real dividends during the course of the
season.

Elsewhere, Shane Long has recently made a positive statement about joining
the club. Regardless of his qualification about not being upset if he stays
at Reading FC, it could be interpreted as a subtle invitation to 'come and
get him.' Lets hope that West Ham up the bid and make the deal happen this
week. He is a crucial bit of the jigsaw that is currently missing, his
arrival could have a similar positive impact as when John Lyall signed Paul
Goddard in the summer prior to the 1980-81 promotion season. Long is not as
accomplished a player as Goddard, but he would still bring a vital, missing
guile and technical ability to our strike force; as well as a track record
as a 20 plus goal scorer in last season's Championship.

Anyway, we can speculate on progress in pre-season, but it all becomes real
with the opening fixture of the season. Cardiff City are a reasonable
initial test, but we should emerge with a win. Hopefully, along with the
three points, we will see ample evidence of defensive solidarity, collective
cohesion and some good movement, passing and attacking play. Just as
importantly, I shall also be looking for signs of real commitment and an
emerging will to win, because it is the presence of those latter, twin
factors that could eventually make the difference between winning and losing
tough way fixtures at places like Millwall and Barnsley. Here's hoping!

SJ. Chandos

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - II 31st July 2011

Happy Macca
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald was delighted with West Ham United's display in Saturday's win
over Real Zaragoza
31.07.2011

Neil McDonald was all smiles after West Ham United's impressive 2-0
pre-season victory over Real Zaragoza. The Hammers impressed the assistant
manager with a clinical display at both ends of the pitch, with Matt Taylor
and Freddie Sears scoring fine goals and Robert Green and his defenders
looking solid in defence. A fifth straight clean sheet, combined with
encouraging performances from new boy Joey O'Brien and trialist Jlloyd
Samuel (pictured), had McDonald purring when he spoke to West Ham TV. "I
think we got both the performance and the result," he said. "I think we
played some really good football and built up really well. We got the ball
into the danger area, scored two goals and kept a clean sheet, so it was the
perfect day really. "The goals were well-worked. It was nice to see the wide
men coming inside to get a goal. Young Freddie finished his off really well
in the second half as well, so we're really pleased with everyone's
performance. "Everybody is shaping up well and it's good that they are
adapting to different systems because we might have a system against Cardiff
that isn't working so we might have to change it. The lads have adjusted and
got used to the two formations that we've played, which was good."

O'Brien's move was completed just minutes before kick-off, and McDonald
knows the quality the Republic of Ireland international possesses after
working with him previously at Bolton Wanderers. Another former Trotter,
Samuel, could follow the 25-year-old through the Boleyn Ground entrance
gates after producing an assured display against the Spaniards. "I think
Joey is a decent defender and very good on the ball as well. He's big and
strong, so he's a great addition and gives us some fantastic competition for
places, which is great. "First impressions were really good. Jlloyd has got
a good pedigree and a good CV, so we've got him in, trained him for a couple
of days and got a good look at him on Saturday. He's enjoyed what he's done
and we've enjoyed having him, so I'm sure the manager will sit down with him
and see what the situation later on at the start of next week."

With a week to go until the 2011/12 npower Championship campaign kicks-off
with the visit of Cardiff City, McDonald said the players was exactly where
he and manager Sam Allardyce hoped they would be at this stage of
pre-season. Allardyce was away on a scouting mission on Saturday evening,
and with the prospect of further signings to boost the squad, McDonald is in
positive mood. "We're almost fully fit, althought Julien Faubert picked up a
little niggly injury. Abdoulaye Faye is not far away, so we're getting
everyone where we want them at this stage with a week to go. "I think the
performance showed that there's no hangover, but at the same time it's vital
we concentrate on Cardiff next week and make sure we get the same
performance as we got on Saturday. "We'll be looking to work hard this week
in the lead-up to the game. The fitness is almost there. We just need to
sharpen up our end-product around the box. That normally comes in the last
week. "It's about roles and responsibilities and making sure everybody knows
where they should be when we have got the ball and when we haven't got the
ball. I think that's falling into place quite nicely - everyone knows what
they're doing. "We've just got to sharpen up leading into the game against
Cardiff."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce facing up to reality at West Ham
Page last updated at 10:21 GMT, Sunday, 31 July 2011 11:21 UK
BBC.co.uk

New West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has admitted he will be sacked if he does
not guide them into the Premier League. Allardyce succeeded Avram Grant as
Hammers boss in June, following their relegation to the Championship. He
told BBC Radio 5 live's Sportsweek: "It is a massive burden on my shoulders
but that's why I do the job. "It's my responsibility to get them there and
if I don't I'll be sacked [but] I've got the experience to get the best out
the players." Allardyce has another motivation for wanting to succeed at
West Ham: the forthcoming move to London's 2012 Olympic Stadium. The Hammers
are due to switch from Upton Park to Stratford, east London for the 2014/15
season and Allardyce expects the club's owners, David Gold and David
Sullivan, to make a success of the move.

WEST HAM'S OPENING LEAGUE GAMES
Continue reading the main story
Sun 7 Aug, Cardiff (H)
Sat 13 Aug, Doncaster (A)
Tue 16 Aug, Watford (A)
Sun 21 Aug, Leeds (H)
Sun 28 Aug, Nott'm Forest (A)

"We have got stability in the owners," he continued. "They are few and far
between as they are from this country, their businesses are in this country
and they are West Ham fans. "If they want to build something sustainable
they are going to have to build facilities at the same level as Arsenal,
Chelsea and Tottenham. "As an academy of football, which West Ham is
renowned for, we must put state of the art facilities, to go with the
stadium, into the training complex." The Olympic Park Legacy Company chose
the Hammers ahead of Tottenham in February 2011 as the preferred club to
move into the Olympic Stadium after the 2012 Games. However, an independent
review is to be held into the process of awarding the Olympic Stadium to
West Ham, after it emerged that an employee of the OPLC carried out
consultancy work on behalf of the Hammers without her managers' knowledge.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Long tempted by West Ham interest
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2011
By: Staff Writer

Reading striker Shane Long has admitted that the opportunity to join West
Ham is one that excites him. The 24-year-old Irish international has been
watched by a number of clubs in pre-season with West Ham having already seen
one bid of £4million plus add-ons rejected. However he admitted that the
chance of moving to east London is something that intrigues him. Speaking
to the Independent on Sunday, Long said: "West Ham are a big club, so it
would definitely be something for me to think about. "But I wouldn't be
that disappointed if nothing happened and I stayed at Reading. I'm happy
here and I like playing under the manager. I'm not dying to get out."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam: I'm here to win the league
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2011
By: Staff Writer

Sam Allardyce insists that nothing less than promotion will be an acceptable
return from his first season in charge at the Boleyn. West Ham United's 14th
full-time manager was installed as successor to Avram Grant back in June
since when he has managed to boost his squad with four former Bolton players
- with another, Jlloyd Samuel, currently on trial. And despite accepting
that more players may yet leave, Allardyce feels that he has a squad capable
of achieving that instant return to the Premier League. "No one else can put
any more expectations and pressure on than me," he told the Independent on
Sunday. "I haven't come down here to spend a long time down in the
Championship. "I've come to win the club promotion and get myself where
I've been for the last 10 years, and that's managing in the top league in
the world. "You're happy that that type of talent is moving a step down to
try to get itself back up. Kevin [Nolan] and Matt [Taylor] have the same
ambition as me: to spend as little time as possible in the Championship. But
we're not taking it for granted that we're going to get promoted."

However Allardyce accepts that West Ham will be hamstrung to a degree having
been forced to cut costs and squad numbers following relegation from the
Premier League, whilst other title contenders - such as Leicester City -
have been increasing their dramatically. "It will be a tougher division," he
mused. "It's going to be damned hard work over a marathon season of 46
games. We have to perform at a consistent level and make sure we're always
in a winning frame of mind. "The club was in despair; relegation leaves a
club traumatised. You've got to get over the trauma and back to positive
thinking. You win a game of football as much with your mind as with your
ability."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan: no promotion equals disaster
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st July 2011
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United captain Kevin Nolan has told his troops that they need to
hit the ground running against Cardiff next weekend. With the first team
pre-season programme completed in style yesterday with a 2-0 win over Real
Zaragoza, Nolan - speaking to the Sunday Mirror - insisted that the Hammers
need to get off to a flying start next Sunday. "We have to come out all guns
blazing," he said. "We have to hit the ground running, there is no hiding
place. The stakes are high and there is immense pressure on us. "The least
we should expect is promotion; anything else will merely be an unmitigated
disaster. This club doesn't belong in the Championship and we have to make
damn sure we don't stay here either."

The 29-year-old also insisted that the team will have to be at the top of
their game for each of the 46 outings this season - as the opposition will
inevitably raise theirs.
"Everyone will want to beat us," he asserted. "This will be their biggest
game of the campaign. Opposing teams will come to Upton Park looking for a
major scalp, you're a team to be shot at. "But if we apply ourselves on the
pitch and get the supporters right behind us I see no reason why we
shouldn't be celebrating come April/May."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Samuel to hold Hammers talks
Full-back impresses during pre-season friendly against Zaragoza
Last Updated: July 31, 2011 11:51am
SSN

Jlloyd Samuel is set to hold talks with Sam Allardyce regarding a possible
deal after impressing in West Ham United's friendly win over Real Zaragoza.
The full-back is available on a free transfer after leaving Allardyce's
former club Bolton Wanderers and featured in Saturday's 2-0 success against
Zaragoza. He could now become Allardyce's fifth signing of the summer after
assistant manager Neil McDonald confirmed discussions are set to take place.
"First impressions were really good," McDonald told the club's official
website. "Jlloyd has got a good pedigree and a good CV, so we've got him in,
trained him for a couple of days and got a good look at him on Saturday.
"He's enjoyed what he's done and we've enjoyed having him, so I'm sure the
manager will sit down with him and see what the situation is later on at the
start of next week."

Allardyce has already been reunited with Kevin Nolan, Matt Taylor, Abdoulaye
Faye and Joey O'Brien after working with the quartet at Bolton, and the
latter completed his move to Upton Park prior to the Zaragoza encounter.
McDonald added: "I think Joey is a decent defender and very good on the ball
as well. "He's big and strong, so he's a great addition and gives us some
fantastic competition for places, which is great."

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Long would 'consider' Hammers
Striker insists he is happy at Reading and is not looking to leave
Last Updated: July 31, 2011 10:19am
SSN

Shane Long admits he would have to consider a move to West Ham United, but
insists he would be happy to stay at Reading. The Republic of Ireland
striker is being courted by several clubs and the Hammers are understood to
have had a £7million offer for Long turned down. Celtic are also interested
in the 24-year-old, but Reading have insisted that no clubs have yet matched
their valuation of the former Cork City forward. West Ham are weighing up
whether to make a renewed bid and Long, who scored over 20 goals last season
as Reading lost to Swansea City in the play-off final, acknowledged he would
not rule out a move to Upton Park. However, the in-demand hit-man says he is
not 'dying' to leave the Madejski Stadium ahead of the Royals' opening game
of the new Championship season against Millwall next weekend. Long told the
Independent on Sunday: "West Ham are a big club, so it would definitely be
something for me to think about. "But I wouldn't be that disappointed if
nothing happened and I stayed at Reading. "I'm happy here and I like playing
under the manager (Brian McDermott). I'm not dying to get out."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Birmingham City: Fans bombard David Gold with hate messages for selling club
to Carson yeung
Jul 31 2011
SundayMercury.net

BIRMINGHAM City fans have been bombarding West Ham co-owner David Gold with
hate mail, blaming him for selling the club to Carson Yeung. Former Blues
chairman Gold has been subjected to vile abuse on Twitter with the club
suffering cash problems following their relegation from the Premier League,
and reeling from owner Yeung's police probe problems. Yeung has had his
assets frozen and is due back in court next month to face money laundering
charges which could see him put behind bars. Meanwhile, the club has been
left with a huge financial hole to fill after being caught out by Blues'
final day of the season relegation. Now fans have turned on Gold who, with
former Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan, sold the club to Yeung nearly two
years ago for just over £80 million. They have accused him of jumping ship,
with the future of the club in doubt. Last week acting chairman Peter Pannu
admitted Birmingham City faced big problems, and might have to cash in on
the sale of big-name players. When contacted by the Sunday Mercury Gold
refused to comment on the hate campaign, but a friend of the family said:
"Some of the things that have been said on Twitter are venomous. Birmingham
fans are blaming David Gold and David Sullivan for all the problems. "They
think that's very unfair. They can put up with some abuse, but they won't
put up with this sort of thing. "The fans should remember that they actually
turned down Yeung twice. But when he came back with an offer of £80 million,
plus the promise of an investment of £40 million into the team, they
couldn't reject that. "Had they done so, the Birmingham fans would never
have forgiven them. "The two Davids wanted to leave the club in safe hands
and thought they had done so. Now it looks like that was a false dawn, so
they don't see why they should be the ones getting all the hate mail. "When
they were in charge at Birmingham, they had a back-up plan and budget if
they went down. "But when they left the club, Birmingham City was still in
the Premier League. "They didn't jump ship to join West Ham, they took a
sabbatical and it was coincidence that West Ham came along when they did."

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Nolan determined to win promotion at first attempt with West Ham
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 11:31 AM on 31st July 2011
Daily Mail

Kevin Nolan insists anything other than promotion will be a failure for West
Ham this season. The midfielder made a surprise £4million move from
Newcastle this summer and is determined to return to the Premier League at
the first time of asking. West Ham are preparing to take on Cardiff at Upton
Park next week and Nolan told the Sunday Mirror: 'We have to come out all
guns blazing. We have to hit the ground running, there is no hiding place
for us. 'The stakes are high and there is immense pressure on us. 'But the
time for feeling sorry for yourselves following relegation from the Premier
League has long since passed. 'The least we should expect is promotion.
Anything else will merely be an unmitigated disaster for this club. This
club doesn't belong in the Championship and we have to make damn sure we
don't stay here either.'

Nolan experienced the trauma of relegation with Newcastle two seasons ago
and he is the first to admit the Championship is not an easy league to
escape. He said: 'There are striking similarities between West Ham and
Newcastle. The pressure and expectations are exactly the same. 'When
Newcastle went down some people expected us to struggle but we re-grouped
and had a right go. We knew we had to either get out of the Championship
straight away or face being stuck there for years to come. 'It was a
make-or-break situation for us in much the same way it is for West Ham. 'You
don't have a divine right to win promotion no matter how big the club are.
You have to earn the right. No-one is going to do you any favours. Everyone
will want to beat us. 'This will be their biggest game of the campaign.
Opposing teams will come to Upton Park looking for a major scalp. You're a
team to be shot at. 'But if we apply ourselves on the pitch and get the
supporters right behind us I see no reason why we shouldn't be celebrating
come April/May.' Some people are still surprised that Nolan was prepared to
trade top-flight football with Newcastle for the Championship. But he claims
it was a no-brainer, explaining: 'Naturally the opportunity to work with Sam
Allardyce again helped, but the club made such an enormous effort to get me
that I felt I would have let them down if I said no. It's nice to be wanted,
that's for sure. 'And after everything that happened at Newcastle it was
important for me to hear that. 'More importantly when I met David Sullivan
he did such a great job selling the club it didn't take long to make up my
mind.
'To fair he could have sold me some unwanted double glazing windows. He was
that good. 'I won't lie though, he wouldn't let me leave the room until I
agreed to sign after they had their bid accepted for me. Despite being happy
with his decision, Nolan admits he was heartbroken to leave Newcastle. He
said: 'I envisaged spending the rest of my career at the club. 'I was
settled, happy and I adored the supporters. I was captain of a huge club and
played with a smashing group of lads I had untold respect for. 'But
ultimately I was forced out because I lost trust in key people at the club
and when you lose trust in people it's almost impossible to regain it.
'From January and shortly following the sale of Andy Carroll to Liverpool, I
was involved in ongoing discussions about signing a new contract between
four and five years. 'I discussed the deal at length with managing director
Derek Llambias and even shook hands on it.

'In my book when you do that man-to-man you expect them to see it through.
'But what we talked about and what they finally offered me was laughable.
They did a U-turn on what we agreed They showed me no respect. I felt
totally betrayed. 'Then they had the nerve to claim I rejected a new
contract. What contract? A deferred option to increase my deal by 12 months
with a bonus that hinged on the success of the team on the pitch the
following season. 'Perhaps I was just naive. I thought I had a good
relationship with the board. 'But when it all came to a head in the summer I
knew my time was coming to an end. 'I had given the club everything but they
didn't want to give me anything in return, just broken promises. I simply
couldn't work with people like that. There was no way back for me.'

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com