An open letter from Karren Brady
WHUFC.com
The Vice-Chairman has written to Londoners ahead of the start of the 2012
Olympic Games
25.07.2012
Dear Londoners,
In just two days' time our fantastic City will embark on what I am certain
will be the most successful Olympic and Paralympic Games to date. The Games
will see a record 205 countries and 14,700 athletes participating in 46
Olympic and Paralympic sports across 34 venues. 2012 will also see the start
of the tangible realisation of the promises made by Lord Coe on behalf of us
all in 2005 Singapore and what they mean for future generations. As I watch
Danny Boyle's opening ceremony on Friday, I'll be proud to be British and,
as a born-and-bred Londoner, I'll be proud of our city. But most of all,
I'll be proud for east London, because I know what 2012 and its legacy means
for this area and the wonderful, eclectic people that I have come to know
and feel so passionate about.
Our Joint-Chairmen, David Sullivan and David Gold, both originated from the
area and often used to tell me of the pull of the East End and its people. I
could not ever fully comprehend just how special the area was until they
achieved their lifelong ambition of running West Ham United - their boyhood
club - and put me at the helm in January 2010.
Since then it is no secret that I have spent two and a half years dedicated
to a project that would see West Ham United occupy the Olympic Stadium and
make it our home post-Games. As has been well documented, the first process
collapsed under threat of legal challenge, but our beliefs remain unchanged.
We have never lost sight of our vision to play our part, along with the
Stadium's major stakeholders, to ensuring that the Stadium grows into a
multi-use destination that serves east London and of which the whole nation
can be proud.
For my Board and I, shaping legacy success has been the key factor in
continuing to pursue our interest despite the many twists and turns. Nobody
is better placed to deliver the legacy for London than West Ham United - we
have been delivering legacies for London since our formation as Thames
Ironworks FC back in 1895. Indeed, this is an intrinsic part of our brand
identity - 'Moore than a Football Club - Since 1895 rooted in London,
working with and for the community'.
It is anticipated that during the 2012 Games over 1 million people will
visit the Olympic Stadium but the showcase must not stop here. Our proposal
would ensure a vibrant, busy Stadium immediately upon the opening of the
Park in 2014. We would seek to act as the catalyst to galvanise the park. We
want to embrace our supporters and the wider community of east London from
the outset and really take them with us. We are proud that of the 850,000
West Ham United supporters regularly communicating with us, over 500,000 of
them are from east London and the surrounding area. This is our community
and it is a community we work hard to serve.
The award-winning West Ham United Community Sports Trust has been delivering
services in east London and Essex since the early 1990s - specifically
targeting some of the most deprived boroughs in the country. Our locally
mentored coaches already teach 17 of the 26 Olympic sports. A move to the
Olympic Stadium would enable us to expand on the established links and
award-winning programmes already in place at an exponential rate.
We estimate that we would bring well over 1 million people a year to the
park. Prosperity would be provided through the offer of a near 100 year
sustainable partnership that would ensure a return on the public investment
that has ALREADY been committed. West Ham United already has an established
workforce from the local boroughs but we would look to substantially add to
this offering in the region of 700 additional full and part time positions.
In addition to what we bring to Stratford, our proposal if implemented will
deliver the much needed regeneration of Upton Park, in line with the needs
of its existing community.
As a businesswoman the commercial benefits of our proposed addition to the
Olympic Park do not escape me. Bringing Premier League football to the park
would offer untold exposure to all of us. The Premier league is watched in
over 650 million homes in 212 territories by a TV audience of 4.7bn billion
people, meaning West Ham United would bring continued global interest to the
Park and surrounding area.
Our vision is not solely held by us however. We have had plenty of support
along the way as we look to stand up for the promises made for London back
in 2005. Indeed, Lord Coe himself said when we first began our journey in
2010 that our bid 'lives with the commitment we made back in Singapore'.
We remain well supported by our friends and partners in the athletics
community. Ed Warner, Chairman of UK Athletics commented recently: "We have
long been enthused by what a club of West Ham's stature and local heritage
can bring to this multi-purpose venue, and in particular by your own team's
plans to be part of a vibrant future for the Stadium and the Olympic Park.
This is why we endorse your bid."
We have also received backing from community leaders, business leaders,
representatives of the arts community and key figures from within football.
I am excited at the prospect of being able to at last communicate the full
extent of our proposals to our patient and loyal supporters. What I am able
to say though, is that if we were to be fortunate enough to be granted the
chance to do so, West Ham United would provide a world-class stadium that
would be their home, showcasing first-class facilities and offering
affordable, accessible , elite football as well as huge opportunities for
growth both on and off the pitch. Put simply, we believe it is the best move
for our fans and the best chance for us to grow as a club. But our vision
for the Stadium has always focused beyond what it can do for us and more on
what we can do for it. The 2012 Games will inspire a generation. Those
moments which capture what can be achieved when you really set out to
achieve your goals must not be lost. The Stadium should remain the Olympic
Park's jewel in the crown watched by the world.
Friday's spectacular event performed to a capacity crowd will mark the start
of what promises to be a momentous event that the whole world will be
watching. But the showcase must not stop there. We know that using the
Stadium as our home will bring with it huge responsibility but we will take
on with pride the mantle of what that means in terms of giving something
back to our community and playing our part in delivering the promises made
in 2005.
I hope Londoners will wish to get behind us when it is time to pass the
baton and let legacy live on, but for now enjoy playing your part in this
spectacular piece of history.
Thank-you all and best wishes,
Karren Brady
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Skipper Diame leads Senegal to draw
WHUFC.com
Mohamed Diame captained Senegal to a 1-1 draw with Team GB at London 2012
26.07.2012
West Ham United midfielder Mohamed Diame had the honour of captaining
Senegal in their opening London 2012 Olympic Games match against hosts Great
Britain.
Diame wore the armband as the African nation came from a goal down to secure
a 1-1 draw with Team GB at Old Trafford in Manchester. Former Hammers
striker Craig Bellamy put Team GB - coached by another ex-West Ham player in
Stuart Pearce - ahead before half-time with a bouncing volley. Bellamy could
later have been awarded a penalty when he appeared to be fouled inside the
Senegal box, but no spot-kick was given. However, just when it looked like
Pearce, Bellamy and unused substitute James Tomkins would have a victory to
celebrate, Moussa Konate popped up with an 82nd-minute equaliser. Earlier in
the day, Uruguay came from behind to beat United Arab Emirates 2-1 in the
other Group A fixture, while Spain were upset 1-0 by Japan in Group D and
Brazil held on to beat Egypt 3-2 in Group C.
Team GB return to action on Sunday, when they face United Arab Emirates at
Wembley at 8pm, whiile Diame's Senegal take on Uruguay earlier the same day
at the Home of Football.
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Hendo happy with first clean sheet
WHUFC.com
Stephen Henderson was pleased with his first shutout as a West Ham United
goalkeeper
26.07.2012
Stephen Henderson was quietly satisfied with a solid night's work as some
smart goalkeeping helped him earn his first clean sheet in a West Ham United
shirt. The Hammers were under the cosh for much of the first half of their
3-0 win against FC Rot-Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday night and the former
Republic of Ireland Under-21 international needed to be on his toes to make
sure they went in at the break on level terms. The second half was a
different story, though, as West Ham came out all guns blazing and three
quickfire goals - two from Ricardo Vaz Te - went unanswered. "I'm very happy
to keep a clean sheet and that we've won the game," Henderson told West Ham
TV. "It's another game under my belt. Bearing in mind we had a different
team out there tonight, to grab a 3-0 result is very good indeed."
The pick of Henderson's saves was a stunning stop to keep out a low
free-kick from Patrick Gobel in the 28th minute. The rest of the No13's
night included some brave goalkeeping to twice narrowly beat strikers to the
ball, in addition to the routine catches and saves. "I was happy as it was
only my second game for the club. I was disappointed not to keep a clean
sheet and win the game at Oxford. It's my third game in four months and I'm
really enjoying being back."
Henderson is all too aware of the healthy competition that currently exists
for a place between the posts at the Boleyn Ground following Robert Green's
departure. Jussi Jaaskelainen joined Henderson on the list of permanent
arrivals last month and despite the fact they will be competing for the same
spot next season, the pair have struck up a strong friendship. "I feel like
I've developed and I feel myself getting fitter and fitter. I'm working well
with the goalkeeper coach Marge [Martyn Margetson] and I'm hoping to get a
chance to show the fans what I'm about. "Me and Jussi are room-mates and
very close. He's a great goalkeeper who's played over 500 games in the
Premier League so it's great to have him around."
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Carr happy with Norwich win
WHUFC.com
Tony Carr hailed the Under-18s for securing a deserved 1-0 pre-season
victory at Norwich City
26.07.2012
Academy Director Tony Carr praised on West Ham United's Under-18s after they
secured a 1-0 pre-season win at Norwich City. The Hammers have a number of
regulars currently away with the Development Squad and first team, so Carr
was impressed at both the performance and result achieved in sweltering
temperatures by a relatively inexperienced side. First-year scholar Taylor
Tombides got the goal that made the difference, with goalkeeper Sam Baxter
also catching the eye between the sticks by making a string of good saves to
keep the Canaries at bay. "The boys coped very well considering it was 30
degrees and midday," said Carr. "For me we were the better side especially
in the first half when we created a lot of opportunities. "They came back
into it during the second period, but Sam Baxter did well by making a few
good saves. Overall, we edged it and deserved the win."
Pre-season is often a time for experimentation and Carr did just that, while
expressing his satisfaction as he and Under-18s coach Nick Haycock continue
to build for the FA Premier Academy League season. "All in all it was a very
good workout and that's exactly what pre-season is about. The lads' fitness
levels are continuing to improve and they did well in the heat, which also
meant we made a lot of changes, but you expect that during this part of the
season."
A few months on from seeing Dan Potts and Rob Hall make their senior debuts,
the ultimate goal for Carr would be to see yet another youth-team player
break into the first team, but he refused to name any names. "My hope is
that a player or players can break into the first team by the end of the
season, but I don't want to name anyone and add more pressure. It would be
great to see them not only get some game time, but be provided with the
opportunity to prove themselves and develop their skills to the next level."
Carr also took a moment to ponder what he would consider a successful season
for the U18s, setting his sights on the FA Youth Cup. "Last season we we're
incredibly unlucky in the FA Youth Cup, losing on penalties to the eventual
winners Chelsea in the fifth round. Success would be winning it, and that's
what we aim to do every year. However it is also important that the players
perform well individually and within the team. "If we play extremely well
and compete only to lose on penalties then we won't have too many
complaints."
The Academy team face Everton on Saturday before wrapping up their
pre-season preparations in Belgium, where Carr will be hoping to add the
finishing touches before their opening league game next month.
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Carroll: West Ham second choice
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
A spokesman for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll has revealed that West Ham
would be second in line to sign Andy Carroll should he be given a choice
over which club to join. Gateshead-born Carroll, who moved to Merseyside in
January 2011 for a record-breaking £35million looks set to leave the club
before the close of the current transfer window with new Anfield boss
Brendan Rodgers having hinted that he doesn't see the 23-year-old as part of
his long-term plans. However West Ham - who continue to pursue the former
Newcastle player - would be behind his former club in terms of where the
player would like to spend the 2012/13 campaign. "Andy is aware of West
Ham's interest," the unnamed 'friend' told chroniclelive.co.uk. "He's still
massive mates with Kevin Nolan and he respects his opinion from a football
point of view. "But his first choice if he did leave Liverpool would, of
course, be Newcastle. If they can't come up with the right bid, though, and
he is going to be sitting on the bench at Liverpool, then he has to
seriously consider West Ham."
Back in 2010, when both players mentioned by the source were employed by
Newcastle, Carroll temporarily moved in with Nolan and his family after
being bailed following an assault charge. Speaking at the time, West Ham's
current captain said: "Andy is a great lad to be around. He's always happy
and smiling. He's had his fair share of trouble but didn't we all when we
were that young?" Since then, the two have remained great friends.
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'Bubbles' to feature in opening ceremony
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 26th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's anthem 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' will be featuring in
the Olympic Games' opening ceremony when it takes place tomorrow night. An
insider who has been part of the preparation and rehearsals for the opening
ceremony has told KUMB that West Ham feature in a 20-second slot during
which 'Bubbles' will be blasted across the stadium's sound system. As well
as the small section highlighting West Ham's place in the local community,
there will be several other segements featuring the East End of London and
its diverse population. The ceremony, which is being directed by Danny Boyle
(Slumdog Millionaire, Trainspotting) and is said to be costing around
£27million to stage on its own will be watched by around a billion people
around the world tuning in on TV. Yet bizarrely the stadium itself is
unlikely to be sold out, with plenty of the more expensive and overpriced
£2,012 and £1,600-priced tickets still up for grabs.
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Nolan Encourages Carroll to Join West Ham
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
Well, no one has identified who this £18 million player is yet. Rumours have
been swirling about the identity and even Carlos Tevez is now being
mentioned. I haven't got much time, so here's a few things for you all to
get your teeth into.
* According to the Newcastle Mad website, a source close to Andy Carroll has
said: "Andy is aware of West Ham's interest. He's still massive mates with
Kevin Nolan and he respects his opinion from a football point of view. His
first choice if he did leave Liverpool would, of course, be Newcastle. If
they can't come up with the right bid, though, and he is going to be sitting
on the bench at Liverpool, then he has to seriously consider West Ham." Not
sure Mrs Nolan would welcome the move, but there you go.
* A good 3-0 victory last night over Rot Weiss Essen, with Ricardo Vaz Te
scoring a superb goal and also a simple tap in.
* Danny Collins has joined Nottingham Forest on a three year deal.
* Bristol City are reported to have made a £1.5 million bid for Sam Baldock.
According to Vital Football, Baldock wants to move to Charlton. And the
Pope's an Anglican.
* The on-off sage of a move for Inter striker Luc Castaignos may be back on
after a proposed deal with Dutch side Twente seems to have hit the rocks.
* 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' will feature in the Olympic opening ceremony
tomorrow night. Sung by Karren Brady. That was a joke.
* There are some rumours doing the rounds that James Collins may be set for
an Upton Park return. At the weekend he was supposed to be heading for
Sunderland. Poor chap.
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Dan King's Sport Uncovered
The Sun
By DAN KING, Sport Uncovered
Published: Today at 00:15
WEST HAM are leading calls for the Premier League to bring in their own
Financial Fair Play rules. Clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal, who
make profits and are unlikely to fall foul of UEFA regulations anyway, are
in favour. But Manchester City, Chelsea, Fulham and others are opposed to
any attempt to tell their billionaire owners how to spend their money.
Hammers co-owner David Gold sees FFP as a way of stemming losses at the club
while keeping it competitive, especially if the revenue-boosting move to the
Olympic Stadium goes through as planned. The issue was raised at the meeting
of all 20 clubs earlier in the summer and the executive team were told to
come back with some ideas. But it is unlikely the proposals will feature
break-even targets like UEFA's rules or ways of curbing wages. Measures may
include compelling clubs to pay half of transfer fees up front, and half the
following year — rather than in the long, drawn-out instalments which helped
destroy Portsmouth — and ring-fencing a chunk of TV money for youth and/or
ground development.
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Cockney Carroll: West Ham make record-breaking £17m move for Reds striker
Andy
The Mirror
West Ham have made a stunning £17million bid to sign Andy Carroll. The
Hammers last night refused to comment on their record-breaking move for the
Liverpool striker for whom they had an initial loan move turned down earlier
this month. But the new offer from the east Londoners – currently on tour in
Germany – is a
one-year loan with a whopping £17m due to the Reds next summer. Carroll is
on tour with Liverpool in America but he now knows he is surplus to
requirements at Anfield following public confirmation from new manager
Brendan Rodgers. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is hoping Carroll's friendship
with former Magpie Kevin Nolan can swing the deal and send the England
striker to London rather than the north east. And Carroll could also be
swayed by the fact that Allardyce's direct playing style would be right up
his street on a team where he would find regular first-team football.
The lure of Newcastle – and the Magpies superior financial firepower – will
give West Ham serious competition for his signature. But the east Londoners
are refusing to give up on Carroll and are willing to shatter their record
£9m outlay on striker Savio Nsereko three years ago. It is still likely to
be rejected by Liverpool, however, with the Reds adamant they are not
interested in offers below £20million for the striker they signed for £35m
last year. In addition Carroll, 23, is believed to favour a move to
Newcastle who themselves had a £13million bid for him turned down last week
- as reported by Mirror Sport. Newcastle boss Alan Pardew warned Liverpool
yesterday that they would have to take a loss on Carroll. But the Reds are
digging their heels in as they try to claw back as much as they can for the
marksman.
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West Ham increase their efforts to sign Liverpool's Andy Carroll
West Ham offer £2m to take Carroll on loan from Liverpool
A further £16m would be added on to make the deal permanent
Ian McCourt
guardian.co.uk, Thursday 26 July 2012 23.09 BST
Andy Carroll cost Liverpool £35m 18 months ago but could soon be on his way
to West Ham United. Photograph: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
West Ham have increased their efforts to sign Andy Carroll by offering to
take the Liverpool striker on loan for an initial fee of £2m with £16m added
on top of that to make the move permanent provided the Hammers avoid
relegation from the Premier League next season.
However, neither Liverpool nor Carroll are keen on such a deal. The
Merseyside club are holding out for £20m and would prefer not to loan out
the forward, who cost the club £35m from Newcastle 18 months ago. Carroll
would like to stay at the club and fight for his place but if he is to be
sold, it is thought he favours a move back to the north east rather than
London.
Newcastle had a loan bid for the 23-year-old rejected earlier this month
while Fulham are also thought to be interested in ending Carroll's stay on
Merseyside.
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Liverpool likely to reject West Ham's £17m bid for outcast Carroll
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:58, 26 July 2012 | UPDATED: 22:58, 26 July 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham have made an official bid for Liverpool striker Andy Carroll, but
the Anfield club are expected to reject it. The proposal is to take the
England forward on loan with a view to a permanent £17million deal, an offer
exclusively revealed by Sportsmail last month. West Ham have bought Modibo
Maiga from Sochaux but want a marquee signing to herald their return to the
Premier League. Carroll, though, is reluctant to move. He wants to speak to
manager Brendan Rodgers about fighting for his place but the Liverpool boss
will tell him he will struggle to feature in his team. Newcastle would be
Carroll's preferred option if he had to go but their outline proposal is
short of West Ham's £17m and Liverpool want a £20m deal for a player they
paid £35m for in 2011.
Liverpool were linked yesterday with Athletic Bilbao defender Fernando
Amorebieta, 27, as concerns grow that Martin Skrtel will leave. West Ham
continue to look for players on a limited budget and are competing with
Wigan for Real Mallorca defender Ivan Ramis. Wigan have bid around £4m.
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Sunderland, Stoke and West Ham on alert after Blackburn defender Olsson
demands move
By ASHLEY GRAY
PUBLISHED: 19:45, 26 July 2012 | UPDATED: 20:43, 26 July 2012
Daily Maiil
Blackburn's Martin Olsson has handed in a transfer request and 'will not
play in the Championship', says his agent. Stoke, Sunderland, Southampton
and West Ham have all been linked with the Sweden left back, but Olsson has
been frustrated by his failure to secure a move away from Ewood Park.
Chelsea even considered a move to make him Ashley Cole's understudy after
Rovers' relegation from the Barclays Premier League last season, but the
Lancashire club have resisted rivals looking for a bargain. It has been
claimed that Blackburn have so far rejected a £1.5million formal offer for
the 24-year-old and instead want nearer £4m. His agent Martin Dahlin said:
'It is true that Martin has submitted a transfer request. Of course, he
would not play in the Championship.' Olsson, who can also play on the left
wing, has three years left on his Blackburn contract.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, July 27
Thursday, July 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th July 2012
Rot-Weiss Erfurt 0-3 West Ham United FT
WHUFC.com
All the action from the Steigerwaldstadion as West Ham United started with a
win in Germany
25.07.2012
Rot-Weiss Erfurt v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Steigerwaldstadion
Wednesday 25 July 2012
Kick-off: 7pm
Final score: Rot-Weiss Erfurt 0-3 West Ham United
FULL-TIME - Well that is job done for West Ham United. Another tough workout
and another win. They were not at their best in the first half but more than
made up for it in the second with two brilliant goals to go with their
fortunate opener. Next up is Dynamo Dresden on Friday. whufc.com will bring
you full reaction to this game later.
90 mins - The free-kick is strong but Henderson is more than a match for it
as he gets down low to gather the ball cleanly. He has been impressive
tonight.
89 mins - Potts goes into the book for a strong tackle and Erfurt have one
last chance to get a goal back with a free-kick down the right.
84 mins - We have 6,750 fans here tonight and I think it's fair to say
they've enjoyed themselves regardless of the score. There was a nice moment
earlier when the home fans clapped Vaz Te's two goals, which shows how good
they were.
78 mins - Maynard makes way to Matt Taylor. His pass was brilliant for Vaz
Te's second so not a bad way to sign off the night.
77 mins - GOAL! Well, Ricardo Vaz Te take a bow. And he actually does in
front of the Hammers fans to celebrate. Maynard plays a perfect through-ball
and Vaz Te beats the offside trap to be left one-on-one with Philipp in the
Erfurt goal. Sadly for the substitute 'keeper a simple step over or three
leaves him on his behind and Vaz Te has the simple task of rolling the ball
into an empty net. Brilliant stuff.
76 mins - Another corner to Erfurt to be taken by Marco Engelhardt on the
right. Henderson, once again, is on hand to punch the ball away. He has had
a solid night tonight, which I'm sure will please Big Sam as he looks to
decide who will start in goal for the Hammers' first game at home to Aston
Villa.
73 mins - Great defending from Driver there as he makes up a lot of ground
to challenge Niklas Odenwald just as midfielder looks set to be first to
Marius Stranl's cross.
68 mins - The home side are getting right behind their team again now and
are desperate to see them score. The nearly did then as Potts heads off the
line but referee Sebastain Schmickartz had already blown for a foul.
63 mins - GOAL! Brilliant goal from West Ham United. A slick move down the
left sees Vaz Te backheel the ball into the path of Turgott. He bursts away
from his marker before reaching the penalty area. He then crosses the ball
with flicked pass where Vaz Te is on hand to smash it into the bottom
corner. Not a bad introduction from the Play-Off final matchwinner.
61 mins - Ricardo Vaz Te is next to come on as Sam Baldock leaves the field.
The forward has been unwell in the past week so that might well have
something to do with his early departure.
59 mins - But the hosts have certainly not given up yet and Henderson has to
be quick to come off his line to beat Ozturk to the ball after Mohsni just
managed to get enough on the ball to take the sting out of a cross from Igor
Jovanovic.
55 mins - Free-kick down the right after Kazim-Richards was fouled. He took
quite a hit there from a late tackle but has got back to his feet. Rob Hall
takes it and the ball nearly ends up in the back of the net but for a
last-ditch deflection on the line. Much better from West Ham this half.
51 mins - Well that goal has silenced the home fans and it was met by a huge
cheer from the fans in claret and blue on the far side. From where I was
sitting it looked very odd as the defender looked to have a bit of time but
chose to hit the ball first time to give fellow half-time substitute Phillip
Klewin no chance in goal.
47 mins - GOAL! And West Ham United take the lead. Kazim-Richards breaks
down the right and fires in a testing cross that substitute Phil Ofosu-Ayeh
smashes into his own net with his first touch! Great start to the second
half from the Hammers.
46 mins - And West Ham get us going in the second period and will be
attacking the goal to our left. The Hammers have made two changes at the
break with Callum Driver coming on for Lemey and Sam Baldock replacing
O'Brien. Mohsni has moved to central defence with Driver slotting in at
right-back.
HALF TIME - And the referee brings the first half to a close. It is likely
the Hammers will make a couple of changes after the break but I expect Big
Sam will be telling his players to keep up the hard work in the heat. Just
as soon as the players go down the tunnel, those not starting tonight head
out to the pitch to warm up.
45 mins - The Hammers stopper goes one better there as he pulls off a fine
stop low down to his right from another shot by Ozturk. The resulting corner
is cleared by Lamey at the near post.
43 mins - A rasping shot from Gobel nearly catches Henderson as he does not
quite take it cleanly. He does well to go in bravely and smother the ball as
Ozturk tries to put in the rebound.
39 mins - We are coming up to half time and the Hammers are yet to really
test Rickert. Macca has just come to the touchline to tell his team to keep
their tempo up. Let's see if they can respond in the five minutes or so we
have left.
36 mins - Well I've just heard my first rendition of 'Bubbles' from the
Hammers fans in the sunshine on the far side. They are doing well to make
themselves heard as the German fans are making plenty of noise.
32 mins - Wally Downes was mistakenly named on the teamsheet as the Hammers'
'Trainer' but he seems to have taken to his new role well! The first-team
coach is out of the edge of the technical area barking out instructions to
the side.
28 mins - Lamey fouls Gobel on the edge of the box and the home side have a
free-kick. Gobel himself takes it and Henderson is forced into a low save
down to his left. Good stop from the summer signing.
26 mins - Another chance for the hosts as Gobel breaks clear of the Hammers
back line. He is closed down well by Lamey but still manages to get a shot
in, which Henderson gets down to gather comfortably.
24 mins - While we have a quick break in play, I'll tell you a little bit
more about West Ham TV's coverage of Friday's game in Dresden. If you listen
to Talksport, you will probably have heard of Ian 'The Moose' Abrahams, who
will be offering his commentary to the game. West Ham TV costs from just
£4.49 a month - for more information, click here.
21 mins - Just to give you a bit more information on how Big Sam has set his
team up tonight, in front of Henderson is former Holland Under-21
international Lamey on the right, with O'Brien and Spence in the middle with
Potts on the left. Rob Hall and George Moncur are just in front of Mohsni,
with Maynard down the left, Turgott on the right and Kazim-Richards through
the middle.
18 mins - Aykut Ozturk is next to go close as he forces Stephen Henderson
into his first save. The Erfurt No10 was at an angle on the left but still
forced the Hammers No13 into a low save. West Ham need to pick the pace up
here.
16 mins - The home side have an even better chance after that. After the
initial corner is cleared the ball is played back in from the right and
Drexler has plenty of time to turn and shoot from eight yards out.
Thankfully, his shot goes over the bar.
15 mins - Best chance of the game so far as Drexler gets down the left
again. His cross is good but nobody is there to meet it. Potts is on hand to
meet it at the far post and Erfurt have their second corner.
11 mins - Potts takes it but the ball is straight through to Marcus Rickert
in the Erfurt goal. I'm sure Sam Allardyce and Neil McDonald will be
looking for better than that as the game goes on.
10 mins - The game hasn't really got going yet, with the ball being given
away quite cheaply by both sides. West Ham have a chance here, though, with
a free-kick just inside the Erfurt half.
5 mins - I nearly just jumped out of my seat as the guy in front of us
pulled out what looks like five air horns tied together and gave it an
almighty blast. Another one then goes off behind us - we may have to get
used to that!
4 min - West Ham haven't really settled yet but Stephen Henderson has the
ball and finds Potts on the left. He knocks it back and the Hammers hold on
to the ball.
1 min - The home side get us underway and go straight on the attack. A cross
fromt the left is cleared well by Danny Potts but Erfurt come straight back
and force a corner. Some loose marking affords Dominick Drexler the chance
to get a header at goal but is goes high and wide.
6.59pm - I would say West Ham have around 300 fans in the stand on the far
side away to our left. That is a decent turnout for a midweek game in
Germay. More still are expected for Friday's big game with Dynamo Dresden.
Don't worry if you can't make the game as West Ham TV will have a live
broadcast.
6.58pm - And here come the teams. No 'Bubbles', but a thumping techno track
almost makes up for it. Almost.
6.56pm - Joey O'Brien will be captain tonight on his first game of the
pre-season and will lead the Hammers out. We've already heard 'Bubbles' once
over the PA system - will we get another rendition before kick-off?
6.55pm - Well you can tell we're getting closer to kick-off as the pace of
the music has picked up and the German fans are on their feet clapping
along. We expect to see the teams in about five or six minutes.
6.50pm - As you will see below, the three players on trial are Bilel Mohsni,
Dutch defender Michael Lamey and Colin Kazim-Richards. It is expected that
West Ham will line up in the standard 4-3-3 formation with Nicky Maynard,
Kazim Richards and Blair Turgott leading the line. Mohsni will play the
holding midfield role.
Rot-Weiss Erfurt: Rickert, Rauw, Jovanovic, Ozturk, Mohwald, Drexler,
Schiller, Pfingsten-Reddig, Czichos, Strangl, Gobel
Subs: Klewin, Oumari, Kind, Ofosu-Ayeh, Odenwald, Engelhardt, Bertram
West Ham United: Henderson, Lamey, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Mohsni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock
6.45pm - Kick-off will be in 15 minutes and we have finally got the team
news. West Ham United have named a young side with three players on trial
starting for the visitors.
6.40pm - Good evening and welcome to Germany! Tonight's fixture sees West
Ham United kick-off their German tour with a game against German
3.Football-Liga side Rot-Weiss Erfurt. It is a stunning evening here in east
Germany and I'm told we're expecting a crowd of nearly 10,000 fans here.
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Hammers in Germany - Wednesday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are gearing up for their first match in Germany on Wednesday
evening
25.07.2012
West Ham United's players were out on the training pitches early on
Wednesday morning ahead of their pre-season meeting with Rot-Weiss Erfurt.
The team went through drills and a practice match before enjoying a gentle
cycle back to the hotel to rest ahead of travelling to the game. A welcome
sight back on the training pitches was that of club captain Kevin Nolan, who
did a number of light stretches and core work in the hot sun with the club's
medical staff. The skipper suffered a toe injury in Saturday's friendly game
against Colchester United and will continue to be assessed as the week goes
on. The Rot-Weiss Erfurt fixture is the first of three matches the Hammers
will play during their week-long stay in Germany and manager Sam Allardyce
will blend a mix of youth and experience for the club's first ever meeting
with their hosts. Live text updates will appear on whufc.com from 7pm. For
Winston Reid, the games cannot come soon enough after three days of tough
training since landing on Monday. "This is what we are here for - to play
matches," Reid told West Ham TV. "It is always the highlight of the week
when you are training as that is what you are gearing towards. "This game
against Rot-Weiss Erfurt is the first of what will be three tough games, but
that is what you want - tough challenges - and to get through them, so we
are all looking forward to that."
Despite his young age, Reid has a wealth of international experience with
New Zealand under his belt and has represented his country all over the
world. Earlier this month, of course, he lined up for West Ham in Austria.
"It is enjoyable to go to other countries and play a variety of teams," he
confirmed. "It is good to get away, train in a different place and then play
- I know the boys certainly welcome that."
Reid and the squad are aware that there will be some fantastic travelling
support at the games in Germany, with the pinnacle set to be the 30,000-plus
home and away fans set to attend Friday's big match at Dynamo Dresden. "We
have great support and they follow us wherever we go and it is fantastic for
us to play in front of that support, especially with the extra efforts they
make in pre-season. We appreciate that and hope they get as much out of it
all as we do."
On what was one of the hottest days of the year so far in Dresden on
Wednesday, cold drinks were a welcome sight for the players as they made
their way off the training pitch. "It was extra hot today, I had trouble in
catching my breath a few times. But it went OK and when you compare to a
couple of weeks ago our fitness is getting better and we are going in the
right direction. "There is good banter amongst everyone; I think the first
thing was to enjoy training in the sun after the last few weeks back in
England in the rain! But it has been good and worthwhile."
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George going great guns
WHUFC.com
George Moncur has told West Ham TV he wants to make an impression on
pre-season tour in Germany
24.07.2012
George Moncur is aiming to the next step towards making his West Ham United
debut after joining the first-team squad on their pre-season tour in
Germany. Still only 18, the midfielder established himself in the
Development Squad last season before embarking on a successful loan spell
with npower League Two side AFC Wimbledon. There, Moncur made his Football
League debut and scored twice in 20 league appearances. The teenager's
progress was rewarded with a seat on the plane to Germany, where Moncur will
hope to make his mark in pre-season matches against Rot Weiss Erfurt, Dynamo
Dresden and Energie Cottbus. "We've had to work quite hard in training on
Monday night and Tuesday but we've got a game on Wednesday, so hopefully we
can win that," he told West Ham TV. "Hopefully I'll get some part in the
games and show the manager what I can do and hopefully I can stamp my mark
on them. "All the lads have done well. They have worked so it's gone really
well so far so hopefully when the game comes around I will play. My aim is
to work hard, train well and take those habits onto the pitch and see what
happens. "All the senior lads are quality and are quick to tell you if you
are doing something wrong, which helps me a lot."
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Darts too strong for Dev Squad
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad were beaten 3-0 at Blue Square Bet Premier side
Dartford on Tuesday evening
25.07.2012
A young West Ham United Development Squad missing a number of regulars were
beaten 3-0 at Blue Square Bet Premier side Dartford on Tuesday evening. With
Rob Hall, George Moncur, Pelly Ruddock and Blair Turgott training with the
first-team squad in Germany, Ian Hendon fielded a starting XI that included
debutant goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel (pictured), scholars Leo Chambers and
Frazer Shaw and trialist centre-back Jordan Tunnicliffe. Dartford took
advantage by scoring twice within the opening 12 minutes, but the young
Hammers continued to give their all and could easily have snatched a
positive result had they converted the numerous chances they created. With
that in mind, Hendon was positive despite the defeat, saying: "Obviously I'm
disappointed we haven't won the game but we had spells after they had gone
2-0 up where we created five or six chances and, with the rub of the green,
we could have been back in the game. "It is still pre-season and so it was a
good workout, with players getting 90 minutes under their belts. "We go to
Welling on Saturday, who are in the Blue Square Bet South, and I'll
hopefully be getting a few players back. Whoever plays, though, it will give
the players experience and help the lads to learn and develop by playing
against more experienced opposition."
On a balmy evening at Dartford's Princes Park, West Ham started slowly and
fell behind within two minutes when Ryan Hayes converted from ten yards
after Spiegel had made a good initial save. After a difficult opening ten
minutes, West Ham were just gaining a foothold when Dartford snatched a
second goal to the delight of many of the 1,524 fans inside the stadium.
After Spiegel had tipped over a long-range effort, the resulting corner was
headed back across the six-yard box and Jacob Erskine stabbed home from
close-range. The second Dartford goal shook West Ham into a response and a
tactical change that saw Matthias Fanimo move to left-back and Dominic Vose
go out to the left of midfield saw the Hammers have significant success down
that flank. West Ham were growing in stature and Kieran Sadlier had a
rasping shot saved low down to his right by Dartford goalkeeper Louis Wells.
Minutes later, the ball again broke to Sadlier inside the penalty area but
his shot was saved by Wells for a second time. The closing 20 minutes of the
first half saw West Ham have numerous efforts on goal - in particular when a
well-worked corner was driven across the penalty area and Sadlier shot
narrowly wide. The chances showed that the West Ham youngsters were a match
for their more experienced opponents, although Dartford were still a
menacing threat going forward with a free kick narrowly curling wide late in
the opening half. The frantic, fast-paced nature of the first half was never
likely to last, considering the heat the opening 45 minutes was played and
the numerous changes made by both managers throughout the second half. The
greater experience and physical presence of Dartford saw them take gradual
control of the second half, although West Ham were not afraid of getting
stuck in and did not give the Dartford players an easy ride. Two crunching
tackles saw Declan Hunt and Chambers both booked, while a brilliant block by
captain Eoin Wearen after Danny Harris had rounded Spiegel showed that West
Ham had not given up. The award to Dartford of a 74th-minute penalty was to
extinguish to any of those hopes, however, when Harris cut in from the left
and Wearen was adjudged to have fouled the left-winger. Spiegel guessed
correctly but his dive was not enough as the Dartford substitute Lee Noble
powered the ball into the bottom right-hand corner. The goal ended hopes of
salvaging a result from the game but West Ham continued to look for a
consolation but it was not too be their night.
The Development Squad return to action at Welling United's Park View Road on
Saturday, with kick-off at 3pm.
Dartford: Wells (Sutton 81), Burns (Sawyer 81), Green, Bonner (Sinclair 46),
Arber (Muggeridge 69), Wallis (Noble 46), Hayes (Collier 46), Simmonds (Daly
46), Erskine (Rodgers 46), Bradbrook (Champion 46), Harris
West Ham United XI: Spiegel, Chambers (Nasha 78), Shaw, Hunt (Bywater 78),
Tunnicliffe, Wearen (Seidu 78), Powell, Fanimo, Piquionne (E.Lee 46),
Sadlier, Vose (Gogo 78)
Unused subs: Larkins, Schiavi
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Rot-Weiß Erfurt 0 West Ham Utd 3
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
A brace from Ricardo Vaz Te helped West Ham to a win in the opening game of
their German tour. Rot-Weiß Erfurt, who play in the third tier of their
domestic league had the better of the first half here in the
Steigerwaldstadion but were blown away by Sam Allardyce's side in the second
period, during which all three golas were scored. The goal that started the
rout has more than a touch of good fortune about it however as Colin
Kazim-Richards' low cross from the right, just two minutes after the
restart, was diverted into his own net by substitute Phil Ofosu-Ayeh.
West Ham's second - and Vaz Te's first - saw the Hammers produce their best
passage of play during the game. A one-two between the Portuguese forward
and teenage striker Robert Hall ended when the former Bolton man fire the
ball into the bottom corner of the net with some aplomb. And it was game
over with 12 minutes of normal time remaining when West Ham's play-off Final
here added his second of the night after rounding sub goalkeeper Philipp
having beaten Erfurt's offside trap; Nicky Maynard providing the killer
pass. United featured all three triallists with the squad at present with
Bilel Mohsni and Dutch defender Michael Lamey joining Kazim-Richards in the
starting line-up. All three are expected to feature once again on Friday
evening when Allardyce's side face Dynamo Dresden.
West Ham Utd: Henderson, Lamey, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Mohsni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock.
Goals: Ofosu-Ayeh (og 47), Vaz Te (63, 78).
Rot-Weiß Erfurt: Rickert, Rauw, Jovanovic, Ozturk, Mohwald, Drexler,
Schiller, Pfingsten-Reddig, Czichos, Strangl, Gobel.
Subs: Klewin, Oumari, Kind, Ofosu-Ayeh, Odenwald, Engelhardt, Bertram.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taking the Michael
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are set to field at least three triallists when they face Rot-Weiß
Erfurt in tonight's pre-season friendly. Bilel Mohsni, Colin Kazim-Richards
and Dutch defender Michael Lamey are all in the squad to face the 3 Liga
outfit at the Steigerwaldstadion this evening on the first leg of United's
second pre-season European venture. Mohsni, who has already featured for
West Ham at Grays and Colchester and Kazim-Richards, who also featured at
the Weston Homes Community Stadium last weekend will be joined by former PSV
Eindhoven and Arminia Bielefeld centre half Lamey. The 32-year-old, who
played for Polish side Wisła Kraków last season has never featured for the
Dutch national side but won four under-21 caps over a decade ago. Tonight's
opponents are a relatively new football club having been formed from the
amalgamation of two former East German clubs, SC Turbine Erfurt and BSG
Optima Erfurt in 1966. However their roots as a sports club can be traced
back to the end of the 1800s. Rot-Weiß Erfurt's home ground, the
Steigerwaldstadion - which comes complete with a running track - was built
in 1931 and has a capacity of just under 20,000. A healthy contingent of
travelling Hammers are expected to attend this evening's fixture.
West Ham Utd: Henderson, Laney, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Moshni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock
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Veterans take trophy
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
The West Ham iFC Veterans team have been voted 'Team Of The Tournament' at
the iFA WorldNet 2012 Football Tournament. The tournament is contested by
supporters' teams from the UK and Europe each year and this is the first
time that Hammers supporters have entered a team into the 'Big Tam Bowl'
veterans' competition. The team had never played together as veterans before
and contained a number of players coming out of retirement especially for
the occasion, including 'keeper Trevor Garrard who had flown back from
Thailand to play in the tournament. The non-regular nature of the side
showed in the opening match as the Ageing Irons went down 4-0 to a
well-organised Airdrie. Manager Gary Davidson at least had the consolation
of the miniature bottle of Scotch presented to him by Airdrie after the
match.
The vets saved their best of the tournament for the second match which
resulted in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Leeds Lards – who had the
advantage of playing on home turf. Both teams had their chances before
Nathan Stafford headed a late winner. Nathan – the team's under-age
representative - was also on target in the next match, a friendly against
Grimsby Town which finished 1-1.
The final group match saw the veterans go down 3-0 to the Watford Gitwizards
who were chasing a large win to improve their goal difference in an effort
to secure a more favourable draw for Sunday's knockout stages.
After a quiet Saturday night in with a mug of cocoa (we understand that this
may not actually be true – Ed) the Hammervets reconvened at the ungodly hour
of 9am on Sunday morning for the knockout stages but were no match for the
much younger legs of Everton, the Toffeemen running in five without reply.
Everton eventually went on to lose to AFC Halifax Town in the final.
However, the Vets' efforts did not go unrewarded. The sporting manner in
which the olduns conducted themselves resulted in the team picking up the
'Team Of The Tournament' award. The award is voted for by the competing
teams and is awarded to the team that is deemed to have "epitomised the
spirit of Internet Football on and off the pitch and played in a fair and
sporting manner". A fitting tribute to Manager Davidson's organisation of
the team over what was a fine weekend.
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Warnock - No Maynard offer
Whites boss plays down striker rumours
Last Updated: July 25, 2012 12:02pm
SSN
Neil Warnock insists Leeds United have made no approach for Nicky Maynard,
but admits the striker is of the calibre he is looking to bring in. Maynard
is currently on the books of West Ham United, with a £2million deal having
taken him to Upton Park from Bristol City in January. He was part of a squad
which secured promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs last season,
but found opportunities to impress difficult to come by. Maynard was
restricted to just nine starts during the closing stages of the 2012/13
campaign. With the Hammers having further bolstered their attacking options
during the summer transfer window, it has been suggested that they may be
willing to part with Maynard.
Availability
A move to Elland Road has been mooted, but Leeds boss Warnock claims no
offer has been tabled for the 25-year-old. "We've mentioned probably 30
people like that and I've not made contact with the club myself," he told
the Yorkshire Post. "But I'm not saying he hasn't been mentioned because
there are 20 or 30 players we've asked about, talking to Premier League
managers and staff. "We've not even considered making an offer for him.
We've just been asking people what the availability of that type of player
is."
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Kon men: West Ham eye up striker aiming to spoil Team GB's Olympic party
The Mirror
West Ham will have their spies out at Team GB's Olympic opener - to study
Senegal star Moussa Konate. The striker, who plays for Israeli side, Maccabi
Tel Aviv is already a full international at the tender age of 19. Fulham
have also been tracking Konate, who is seen as the biggest threat to Stuart
Pearce's side at Old Trafford in Thursday night's group-stage clash. Senegal
did not select more senior stars such as Newcastle strike pair Papiss Cisse
and Demba Ba for their London 2012 squad.
West Ham have been linked with more high-profile strikers Dimitar Berbatov
of Manchester United and Andy Carroll of Liverpool this summer. They have
also already bought Sochaux and Mali hitman Modibo Maiga as they prepare for
their first season back in the Premier League after a year in the
Championship.
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We would provide the legacy: Brady believes West Ham are best option for
Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham remain the best option to honour an Olympic legacy and become
tenants of the Stratford stadium according to club vice-chairman Karren
Brady. The newly-promoted Premier League side were chosen ahead of Tottenham
by the Olympic Park Legacy Company to take over the ground when it becomes
available in 2014. However a High Court judge over-turned the ruling and a
loan-finance deal between the club and Newham Council subsequently
collapsed. Yet Brady has reiterated her stance the Olympic Stadium would
only flourish with the Hammers presence. She said: "Shaping legacy success
has been the key factor in continuing to pursue our interest despite the
many twists and turns. "Nobody is better placed to deliver the legacy for
London than West Ham United. "Our proposal would ensure a vibrant, busy
stadium immediately upon the opening of the venue in 2014. "Our vision is
not solely held by us. We have had plenty of support along the way as we
look to stand up for the promises made for London back in 2005. "Indeed,
Lord Coe said when we first began our journey in 2010 that our bid 'lives
with the commitment we made back in Singapore'. "If we were to be fortunate
enough to be granted the chance to do so, West Ham United would provide a
world-class stadium that would be their home. "Put simply, we believe it is
the best move for our fans and the best chance for us to grow as a club." A
decision on the identity of the residents is expected to be made in October.
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Southend United's Bilel Mohsni plays full game for West Ham in 3-0 win over
Rot-Weiss Erfurt
Echo News
8:05pm Wednesday 25th July 2012 in Blues By Chris Phillips
BILEL Mohsni played the full 90 minutes for West Ham United tonight as they
beat Rot-Weiss Erfurt 3-0. In the first match of their tour of Germany,
Mohsni - who is on trial from Southend United - started in a holding
midfield role before switching to centre-back for the second half. Ricardo
Vaz Te bagged a brace while Phil Ofosu-Ayeh was also on target. West Ham are
next in action on Friday when they take on Dynamo Dresden.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
All the action from the Steigerwaldstadion as West Ham United started with a
win in Germany
25.07.2012
Rot-Weiss Erfurt v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Steigerwaldstadion
Wednesday 25 July 2012
Kick-off: 7pm
Final score: Rot-Weiss Erfurt 0-3 West Ham United
FULL-TIME - Well that is job done for West Ham United. Another tough workout
and another win. They were not at their best in the first half but more than
made up for it in the second with two brilliant goals to go with their
fortunate opener. Next up is Dynamo Dresden on Friday. whufc.com will bring
you full reaction to this game later.
90 mins - The free-kick is strong but Henderson is more than a match for it
as he gets down low to gather the ball cleanly. He has been impressive
tonight.
89 mins - Potts goes into the book for a strong tackle and Erfurt have one
last chance to get a goal back with a free-kick down the right.
84 mins - We have 6,750 fans here tonight and I think it's fair to say
they've enjoyed themselves regardless of the score. There was a nice moment
earlier when the home fans clapped Vaz Te's two goals, which shows how good
they were.
78 mins - Maynard makes way to Matt Taylor. His pass was brilliant for Vaz
Te's second so not a bad way to sign off the night.
77 mins - GOAL! Well, Ricardo Vaz Te take a bow. And he actually does in
front of the Hammers fans to celebrate. Maynard plays a perfect through-ball
and Vaz Te beats the offside trap to be left one-on-one with Philipp in the
Erfurt goal. Sadly for the substitute 'keeper a simple step over or three
leaves him on his behind and Vaz Te has the simple task of rolling the ball
into an empty net. Brilliant stuff.
76 mins - Another corner to Erfurt to be taken by Marco Engelhardt on the
right. Henderson, once again, is on hand to punch the ball away. He has had
a solid night tonight, which I'm sure will please Big Sam as he looks to
decide who will start in goal for the Hammers' first game at home to Aston
Villa.
73 mins - Great defending from Driver there as he makes up a lot of ground
to challenge Niklas Odenwald just as midfielder looks set to be first to
Marius Stranl's cross.
68 mins - The home side are getting right behind their team again now and
are desperate to see them score. The nearly did then as Potts heads off the
line but referee Sebastain Schmickartz had already blown for a foul.
63 mins - GOAL! Brilliant goal from West Ham United. A slick move down the
left sees Vaz Te backheel the ball into the path of Turgott. He bursts away
from his marker before reaching the penalty area. He then crosses the ball
with flicked pass where Vaz Te is on hand to smash it into the bottom
corner. Not a bad introduction from the Play-Off final matchwinner.
61 mins - Ricardo Vaz Te is next to come on as Sam Baldock leaves the field.
The forward has been unwell in the past week so that might well have
something to do with his early departure.
59 mins - But the hosts have certainly not given up yet and Henderson has to
be quick to come off his line to beat Ozturk to the ball after Mohsni just
managed to get enough on the ball to take the sting out of a cross from Igor
Jovanovic.
55 mins - Free-kick down the right after Kazim-Richards was fouled. He took
quite a hit there from a late tackle but has got back to his feet. Rob Hall
takes it and the ball nearly ends up in the back of the net but for a
last-ditch deflection on the line. Much better from West Ham this half.
51 mins - Well that goal has silenced the home fans and it was met by a huge
cheer from the fans in claret and blue on the far side. From where I was
sitting it looked very odd as the defender looked to have a bit of time but
chose to hit the ball first time to give fellow half-time substitute Phillip
Klewin no chance in goal.
47 mins - GOAL! And West Ham United take the lead. Kazim-Richards breaks
down the right and fires in a testing cross that substitute Phil Ofosu-Ayeh
smashes into his own net with his first touch! Great start to the second
half from the Hammers.
46 mins - And West Ham get us going in the second period and will be
attacking the goal to our left. The Hammers have made two changes at the
break with Callum Driver coming on for Lemey and Sam Baldock replacing
O'Brien. Mohsni has moved to central defence with Driver slotting in at
right-back.
HALF TIME - And the referee brings the first half to a close. It is likely
the Hammers will make a couple of changes after the break but I expect Big
Sam will be telling his players to keep up the hard work in the heat. Just
as soon as the players go down the tunnel, those not starting tonight head
out to the pitch to warm up.
45 mins - The Hammers stopper goes one better there as he pulls off a fine
stop low down to his right from another shot by Ozturk. The resulting corner
is cleared by Lamey at the near post.
43 mins - A rasping shot from Gobel nearly catches Henderson as he does not
quite take it cleanly. He does well to go in bravely and smother the ball as
Ozturk tries to put in the rebound.
39 mins - We are coming up to half time and the Hammers are yet to really
test Rickert. Macca has just come to the touchline to tell his team to keep
their tempo up. Let's see if they can respond in the five minutes or so we
have left.
36 mins - Well I've just heard my first rendition of 'Bubbles' from the
Hammers fans in the sunshine on the far side. They are doing well to make
themselves heard as the German fans are making plenty of noise.
32 mins - Wally Downes was mistakenly named on the teamsheet as the Hammers'
'Trainer' but he seems to have taken to his new role well! The first-team
coach is out of the edge of the technical area barking out instructions to
the side.
28 mins - Lamey fouls Gobel on the edge of the box and the home side have a
free-kick. Gobel himself takes it and Henderson is forced into a low save
down to his left. Good stop from the summer signing.
26 mins - Another chance for the hosts as Gobel breaks clear of the Hammers
back line. He is closed down well by Lamey but still manages to get a shot
in, which Henderson gets down to gather comfortably.
24 mins - While we have a quick break in play, I'll tell you a little bit
more about West Ham TV's coverage of Friday's game in Dresden. If you listen
to Talksport, you will probably have heard of Ian 'The Moose' Abrahams, who
will be offering his commentary to the game. West Ham TV costs from just
£4.49 a month - for more information, click here.
21 mins - Just to give you a bit more information on how Big Sam has set his
team up tonight, in front of Henderson is former Holland Under-21
international Lamey on the right, with O'Brien and Spence in the middle with
Potts on the left. Rob Hall and George Moncur are just in front of Mohsni,
with Maynard down the left, Turgott on the right and Kazim-Richards through
the middle.
18 mins - Aykut Ozturk is next to go close as he forces Stephen Henderson
into his first save. The Erfurt No10 was at an angle on the left but still
forced the Hammers No13 into a low save. West Ham need to pick the pace up
here.
16 mins - The home side have an even better chance after that. After the
initial corner is cleared the ball is played back in from the right and
Drexler has plenty of time to turn and shoot from eight yards out.
Thankfully, his shot goes over the bar.
15 mins - Best chance of the game so far as Drexler gets down the left
again. His cross is good but nobody is there to meet it. Potts is on hand to
meet it at the far post and Erfurt have their second corner.
11 mins - Potts takes it but the ball is straight through to Marcus Rickert
in the Erfurt goal. I'm sure Sam Allardyce and Neil McDonald will be
looking for better than that as the game goes on.
10 mins - The game hasn't really got going yet, with the ball being given
away quite cheaply by both sides. West Ham have a chance here, though, with
a free-kick just inside the Erfurt half.
5 mins - I nearly just jumped out of my seat as the guy in front of us
pulled out what looks like five air horns tied together and gave it an
almighty blast. Another one then goes off behind us - we may have to get
used to that!
4 min - West Ham haven't really settled yet but Stephen Henderson has the
ball and finds Potts on the left. He knocks it back and the Hammers hold on
to the ball.
1 min - The home side get us underway and go straight on the attack. A cross
fromt the left is cleared well by Danny Potts but Erfurt come straight back
and force a corner. Some loose marking affords Dominick Drexler the chance
to get a header at goal but is goes high and wide.
6.59pm - I would say West Ham have around 300 fans in the stand on the far
side away to our left. That is a decent turnout for a midweek game in
Germay. More still are expected for Friday's big game with Dynamo Dresden.
Don't worry if you can't make the game as West Ham TV will have a live
broadcast.
6.58pm - And here come the teams. No 'Bubbles', but a thumping techno track
almost makes up for it. Almost.
6.56pm - Joey O'Brien will be captain tonight on his first game of the
pre-season and will lead the Hammers out. We've already heard 'Bubbles' once
over the PA system - will we get another rendition before kick-off?
6.55pm - Well you can tell we're getting closer to kick-off as the pace of
the music has picked up and the German fans are on their feet clapping
along. We expect to see the teams in about five or six minutes.
6.50pm - As you will see below, the three players on trial are Bilel Mohsni,
Dutch defender Michael Lamey and Colin Kazim-Richards. It is expected that
West Ham will line up in the standard 4-3-3 formation with Nicky Maynard,
Kazim Richards and Blair Turgott leading the line. Mohsni will play the
holding midfield role.
Rot-Weiss Erfurt: Rickert, Rauw, Jovanovic, Ozturk, Mohwald, Drexler,
Schiller, Pfingsten-Reddig, Czichos, Strangl, Gobel
Subs: Klewin, Oumari, Kind, Ofosu-Ayeh, Odenwald, Engelhardt, Bertram
West Ham United: Henderson, Lamey, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Mohsni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock
6.45pm - Kick-off will be in 15 minutes and we have finally got the team
news. West Ham United have named a young side with three players on trial
starting for the visitors.
6.40pm - Good evening and welcome to Germany! Tonight's fixture sees West
Ham United kick-off their German tour with a game against German
3.Football-Liga side Rot-Weiss Erfurt. It is a stunning evening here in east
Germany and I'm told we're expecting a crowd of nearly 10,000 fans here.
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Hammers in Germany - Wednesday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are gearing up for their first match in Germany on Wednesday
evening
25.07.2012
West Ham United's players were out on the training pitches early on
Wednesday morning ahead of their pre-season meeting with Rot-Weiss Erfurt.
The team went through drills and a practice match before enjoying a gentle
cycle back to the hotel to rest ahead of travelling to the game. A welcome
sight back on the training pitches was that of club captain Kevin Nolan, who
did a number of light stretches and core work in the hot sun with the club's
medical staff. The skipper suffered a toe injury in Saturday's friendly game
against Colchester United and will continue to be assessed as the week goes
on. The Rot-Weiss Erfurt fixture is the first of three matches the Hammers
will play during their week-long stay in Germany and manager Sam Allardyce
will blend a mix of youth and experience for the club's first ever meeting
with their hosts. Live text updates will appear on whufc.com from 7pm. For
Winston Reid, the games cannot come soon enough after three days of tough
training since landing on Monday. "This is what we are here for - to play
matches," Reid told West Ham TV. "It is always the highlight of the week
when you are training as that is what you are gearing towards. "This game
against Rot-Weiss Erfurt is the first of what will be three tough games, but
that is what you want - tough challenges - and to get through them, so we
are all looking forward to that."
Despite his young age, Reid has a wealth of international experience with
New Zealand under his belt and has represented his country all over the
world. Earlier this month, of course, he lined up for West Ham in Austria.
"It is enjoyable to go to other countries and play a variety of teams," he
confirmed. "It is good to get away, train in a different place and then play
- I know the boys certainly welcome that."
Reid and the squad are aware that there will be some fantastic travelling
support at the games in Germany, with the pinnacle set to be the 30,000-plus
home and away fans set to attend Friday's big match at Dynamo Dresden. "We
have great support and they follow us wherever we go and it is fantastic for
us to play in front of that support, especially with the extra efforts they
make in pre-season. We appreciate that and hope they get as much out of it
all as we do."
On what was one of the hottest days of the year so far in Dresden on
Wednesday, cold drinks were a welcome sight for the players as they made
their way off the training pitch. "It was extra hot today, I had trouble in
catching my breath a few times. But it went OK and when you compare to a
couple of weeks ago our fitness is getting better and we are going in the
right direction. "There is good banter amongst everyone; I think the first
thing was to enjoy training in the sun after the last few weeks back in
England in the rain! But it has been good and worthwhile."
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George going great guns
WHUFC.com
George Moncur has told West Ham TV he wants to make an impression on
pre-season tour in Germany
24.07.2012
George Moncur is aiming to the next step towards making his West Ham United
debut after joining the first-team squad on their pre-season tour in
Germany. Still only 18, the midfielder established himself in the
Development Squad last season before embarking on a successful loan spell
with npower League Two side AFC Wimbledon. There, Moncur made his Football
League debut and scored twice in 20 league appearances. The teenager's
progress was rewarded with a seat on the plane to Germany, where Moncur will
hope to make his mark in pre-season matches against Rot Weiss Erfurt, Dynamo
Dresden and Energie Cottbus. "We've had to work quite hard in training on
Monday night and Tuesday but we've got a game on Wednesday, so hopefully we
can win that," he told West Ham TV. "Hopefully I'll get some part in the
games and show the manager what I can do and hopefully I can stamp my mark
on them. "All the lads have done well. They have worked so it's gone really
well so far so hopefully when the game comes around I will play. My aim is
to work hard, train well and take those habits onto the pitch and see what
happens. "All the senior lads are quality and are quick to tell you if you
are doing something wrong, which helps me a lot."
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Darts too strong for Dev Squad
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad were beaten 3-0 at Blue Square Bet Premier side
Dartford on Tuesday evening
25.07.2012
A young West Ham United Development Squad missing a number of regulars were
beaten 3-0 at Blue Square Bet Premier side Dartford on Tuesday evening. With
Rob Hall, George Moncur, Pelly Ruddock and Blair Turgott training with the
first-team squad in Germany, Ian Hendon fielded a starting XI that included
debutant goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel (pictured), scholars Leo Chambers and
Frazer Shaw and trialist centre-back Jordan Tunnicliffe. Dartford took
advantage by scoring twice within the opening 12 minutes, but the young
Hammers continued to give their all and could easily have snatched a
positive result had they converted the numerous chances they created. With
that in mind, Hendon was positive despite the defeat, saying: "Obviously I'm
disappointed we haven't won the game but we had spells after they had gone
2-0 up where we created five or six chances and, with the rub of the green,
we could have been back in the game. "It is still pre-season and so it was a
good workout, with players getting 90 minutes under their belts. "We go to
Welling on Saturday, who are in the Blue Square Bet South, and I'll
hopefully be getting a few players back. Whoever plays, though, it will give
the players experience and help the lads to learn and develop by playing
against more experienced opposition."
On a balmy evening at Dartford's Princes Park, West Ham started slowly and
fell behind within two minutes when Ryan Hayes converted from ten yards
after Spiegel had made a good initial save. After a difficult opening ten
minutes, West Ham were just gaining a foothold when Dartford snatched a
second goal to the delight of many of the 1,524 fans inside the stadium.
After Spiegel had tipped over a long-range effort, the resulting corner was
headed back across the six-yard box and Jacob Erskine stabbed home from
close-range. The second Dartford goal shook West Ham into a response and a
tactical change that saw Matthias Fanimo move to left-back and Dominic Vose
go out to the left of midfield saw the Hammers have significant success down
that flank. West Ham were growing in stature and Kieran Sadlier had a
rasping shot saved low down to his right by Dartford goalkeeper Louis Wells.
Minutes later, the ball again broke to Sadlier inside the penalty area but
his shot was saved by Wells for a second time. The closing 20 minutes of the
first half saw West Ham have numerous efforts on goal - in particular when a
well-worked corner was driven across the penalty area and Sadlier shot
narrowly wide. The chances showed that the West Ham youngsters were a match
for their more experienced opponents, although Dartford were still a
menacing threat going forward with a free kick narrowly curling wide late in
the opening half. The frantic, fast-paced nature of the first half was never
likely to last, considering the heat the opening 45 minutes was played and
the numerous changes made by both managers throughout the second half. The
greater experience and physical presence of Dartford saw them take gradual
control of the second half, although West Ham were not afraid of getting
stuck in and did not give the Dartford players an easy ride. Two crunching
tackles saw Declan Hunt and Chambers both booked, while a brilliant block by
captain Eoin Wearen after Danny Harris had rounded Spiegel showed that West
Ham had not given up. The award to Dartford of a 74th-minute penalty was to
extinguish to any of those hopes, however, when Harris cut in from the left
and Wearen was adjudged to have fouled the left-winger. Spiegel guessed
correctly but his dive was not enough as the Dartford substitute Lee Noble
powered the ball into the bottom right-hand corner. The goal ended hopes of
salvaging a result from the game but West Ham continued to look for a
consolation but it was not too be their night.
The Development Squad return to action at Welling United's Park View Road on
Saturday, with kick-off at 3pm.
Dartford: Wells (Sutton 81), Burns (Sawyer 81), Green, Bonner (Sinclair 46),
Arber (Muggeridge 69), Wallis (Noble 46), Hayes (Collier 46), Simmonds (Daly
46), Erskine (Rodgers 46), Bradbrook (Champion 46), Harris
West Ham United XI: Spiegel, Chambers (Nasha 78), Shaw, Hunt (Bywater 78),
Tunnicliffe, Wearen (Seidu 78), Powell, Fanimo, Piquionne (E.Lee 46),
Sadlier, Vose (Gogo 78)
Unused subs: Larkins, Schiavi
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Rot-Weiß Erfurt 0 West Ham Utd 3
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
A brace from Ricardo Vaz Te helped West Ham to a win in the opening game of
their German tour. Rot-Weiß Erfurt, who play in the third tier of their
domestic league had the better of the first half here in the
Steigerwaldstadion but were blown away by Sam Allardyce's side in the second
period, during which all three golas were scored. The goal that started the
rout has more than a touch of good fortune about it however as Colin
Kazim-Richards' low cross from the right, just two minutes after the
restart, was diverted into his own net by substitute Phil Ofosu-Ayeh.
West Ham's second - and Vaz Te's first - saw the Hammers produce their best
passage of play during the game. A one-two between the Portuguese forward
and teenage striker Robert Hall ended when the former Bolton man fire the
ball into the bottom corner of the net with some aplomb. And it was game
over with 12 minutes of normal time remaining when West Ham's play-off Final
here added his second of the night after rounding sub goalkeeper Philipp
having beaten Erfurt's offside trap; Nicky Maynard providing the killer
pass. United featured all three triallists with the squad at present with
Bilel Mohsni and Dutch defender Michael Lamey joining Kazim-Richards in the
starting line-up. All three are expected to feature once again on Friday
evening when Allardyce's side face Dynamo Dresden.
West Ham Utd: Henderson, Lamey, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Mohsni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock.
Goals: Ofosu-Ayeh (og 47), Vaz Te (63, 78).
Rot-Weiß Erfurt: Rickert, Rauw, Jovanovic, Ozturk, Mohwald, Drexler,
Schiller, Pfingsten-Reddig, Czichos, Strangl, Gobel.
Subs: Klewin, Oumari, Kind, Ofosu-Ayeh, Odenwald, Engelhardt, Bertram.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taking the Michael
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are set to field at least three triallists when they face Rot-Weiß
Erfurt in tonight's pre-season friendly. Bilel Mohsni, Colin Kazim-Richards
and Dutch defender Michael Lamey are all in the squad to face the 3 Liga
outfit at the Steigerwaldstadion this evening on the first leg of United's
second pre-season European venture. Mohsni, who has already featured for
West Ham at Grays and Colchester and Kazim-Richards, who also featured at
the Weston Homes Community Stadium last weekend will be joined by former PSV
Eindhoven and Arminia Bielefeld centre half Lamey. The 32-year-old, who
played for Polish side Wisła Kraków last season has never featured for the
Dutch national side but won four under-21 caps over a decade ago. Tonight's
opponents are a relatively new football club having been formed from the
amalgamation of two former East German clubs, SC Turbine Erfurt and BSG
Optima Erfurt in 1966. However their roots as a sports club can be traced
back to the end of the 1800s. Rot-Weiß Erfurt's home ground, the
Steigerwaldstadion - which comes complete with a running track - was built
in 1931 and has a capacity of just under 20,000. A healthy contingent of
travelling Hammers are expected to attend this evening's fixture.
West Ham Utd: Henderson, Laney, O'Brien, Spence, Potts, Moshni, Moncur,
Hall, Turgott, Maynard, Kazim-Richards.
Subs: Jaaskelainen, McCartney, Drvier, Demel, O'Neil, Noble, Taylor, Vaz Te,
Baldock
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Veterans take trophy
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 25th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
The West Ham iFC Veterans team have been voted 'Team Of The Tournament' at
the iFA WorldNet 2012 Football Tournament. The tournament is contested by
supporters' teams from the UK and Europe each year and this is the first
time that Hammers supporters have entered a team into the 'Big Tam Bowl'
veterans' competition. The team had never played together as veterans before
and contained a number of players coming out of retirement especially for
the occasion, including 'keeper Trevor Garrard who had flown back from
Thailand to play in the tournament. The non-regular nature of the side
showed in the opening match as the Ageing Irons went down 4-0 to a
well-organised Airdrie. Manager Gary Davidson at least had the consolation
of the miniature bottle of Scotch presented to him by Airdrie after the
match.
The vets saved their best of the tournament for the second match which
resulted in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Leeds Lards – who had the
advantage of playing on home turf. Both teams had their chances before
Nathan Stafford headed a late winner. Nathan – the team's under-age
representative - was also on target in the next match, a friendly against
Grimsby Town which finished 1-1.
The final group match saw the veterans go down 3-0 to the Watford Gitwizards
who were chasing a large win to improve their goal difference in an effort
to secure a more favourable draw for Sunday's knockout stages.
After a quiet Saturday night in with a mug of cocoa (we understand that this
may not actually be true – Ed) the Hammervets reconvened at the ungodly hour
of 9am on Sunday morning for the knockout stages but were no match for the
much younger legs of Everton, the Toffeemen running in five without reply.
Everton eventually went on to lose to AFC Halifax Town in the final.
However, the Vets' efforts did not go unrewarded. The sporting manner in
which the olduns conducted themselves resulted in the team picking up the
'Team Of The Tournament' award. The award is voted for by the competing
teams and is awarded to the team that is deemed to have "epitomised the
spirit of Internet Football on and off the pitch and played in a fair and
sporting manner". A fitting tribute to Manager Davidson's organisation of
the team over what was a fine weekend.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Warnock - No Maynard offer
Whites boss plays down striker rumours
Last Updated: July 25, 2012 12:02pm
SSN
Neil Warnock insists Leeds United have made no approach for Nicky Maynard,
but admits the striker is of the calibre he is looking to bring in. Maynard
is currently on the books of West Ham United, with a £2million deal having
taken him to Upton Park from Bristol City in January. He was part of a squad
which secured promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs last season,
but found opportunities to impress difficult to come by. Maynard was
restricted to just nine starts during the closing stages of the 2012/13
campaign. With the Hammers having further bolstered their attacking options
during the summer transfer window, it has been suggested that they may be
willing to part with Maynard.
Availability
A move to Elland Road has been mooted, but Leeds boss Warnock claims no
offer has been tabled for the 25-year-old. "We've mentioned probably 30
people like that and I've not made contact with the club myself," he told
the Yorkshire Post. "But I'm not saying he hasn't been mentioned because
there are 20 or 30 players we've asked about, talking to Premier League
managers and staff. "We've not even considered making an offer for him.
We've just been asking people what the availability of that type of player
is."
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Kon men: West Ham eye up striker aiming to spoil Team GB's Olympic party
The Mirror
West Ham will have their spies out at Team GB's Olympic opener - to study
Senegal star Moussa Konate. The striker, who plays for Israeli side, Maccabi
Tel Aviv is already a full international at the tender age of 19. Fulham
have also been tracking Konate, who is seen as the biggest threat to Stuart
Pearce's side at Old Trafford in Thursday night's group-stage clash. Senegal
did not select more senior stars such as Newcastle strike pair Papiss Cisse
and Demba Ba for their London 2012 squad.
West Ham have been linked with more high-profile strikers Dimitar Berbatov
of Manchester United and Andy Carroll of Liverpool this summer. They have
also already bought Sochaux and Mali hitman Modibo Maiga as they prepare for
their first season back in the Premier League after a year in the
Championship.
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We would provide the legacy: Brady believes West Ham are best option for
Olympic Stadium
The Mirror
West Ham remain the best option to honour an Olympic legacy and become
tenants of the Stratford stadium according to club vice-chairman Karren
Brady. The newly-promoted Premier League side were chosen ahead of Tottenham
by the Olympic Park Legacy Company to take over the ground when it becomes
available in 2014. However a High Court judge over-turned the ruling and a
loan-finance deal between the club and Newham Council subsequently
collapsed. Yet Brady has reiterated her stance the Olympic Stadium would
only flourish with the Hammers presence. She said: "Shaping legacy success
has been the key factor in continuing to pursue our interest despite the
many twists and turns. "Nobody is better placed to deliver the legacy for
London than West Ham United. "Our proposal would ensure a vibrant, busy
stadium immediately upon the opening of the venue in 2014. "Our vision is
not solely held by us. We have had plenty of support along the way as we
look to stand up for the promises made for London back in 2005. "Indeed,
Lord Coe said when we first began our journey in 2010 that our bid 'lives
with the commitment we made back in Singapore'. "If we were to be fortunate
enough to be granted the chance to do so, West Ham United would provide a
world-class stadium that would be their home. "Put simply, we believe it is
the best move for our fans and the best chance for us to grow as a club." A
decision on the identity of the residents is expected to be made in October.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southend United's Bilel Mohsni plays full game for West Ham in 3-0 win over
Rot-Weiss Erfurt
Echo News
8:05pm Wednesday 25th July 2012 in Blues By Chris Phillips
BILEL Mohsni played the full 90 minutes for West Ham United tonight as they
beat Rot-Weiss Erfurt 3-0. In the first match of their tour of Germany,
Mohsni - who is on trial from Southend United - started in a holding
midfield role before switching to centre-back for the second half. Ricardo
Vaz Te bagged a brace while Phil Ofosu-Ayeh was also on target. West Ham are
next in action on Friday when they take on Dynamo Dresden.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 25
Daily WHUFC News - 25th July 2012
Hammers in Germany - Tuesday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were working hard as they prepare for Wednesday's game with
Rot Weiss Erfurt
24.07.2012
West Ham United continued their pre-season schedule with yet another
hard-working session in Dresden on Tuesday. With the hot sun beaming down,
the players cycled from their hotel to the nearby training ground after
breakfast to take part in a strenuous work-out before completing their
morning's work with a competitive and lively practice game. After lunch and
a rest, it will be more of the same this evening when manager Sam Allardyce
and assistant manager Neil McDonald put the players through a second session
ahead of the tour's opening match with Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday. While
the strikers took the limelight on Monday, it was the turn of the defenders,
including Winston Reid and George McCartney, to take the praise of the
manager during the intense session. George Moncur, who spoke to West Ham TV
earlier on Tuesday, and the other younger members of the squad look likely
to get a run-out on Wednesday so were working hard to catch the eye of the
coaching staff. The training session also attracted some local fans and a
German TV crew, who got the chance to speak to Ricardo Vaz Te about the
game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca's media day
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald has sat down with a German TV company to talk about West Ham's
United's pre-season tour
24.07.2012
West Ham United's arrival in Dresden has caused quite a stir amongst the
locals as they bid to find out more about their high-profile visitors. After
a police escort from Dresden International Airport to the team hotel in the
German city, assistant manager Neil McDonald sat down with local television
company MDR TV to talk about the Hammers' hopes for their six-day trip. West
Ham will train hard in Germany before facing Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening, Dynamo Dresden in front of a sellout 33,000 crowd on Friday and
Energie Cottbus on Sunday afterrnoon.
Neil, why did you decide to come to Dresden?
NM - "We've tried different countries like Austria and Switzerland. We were
invited to come and play three games in Germany. I came across last month
and the
hotel and facilities are first class so it's nice to be here and we look
forward to the three games."
What do you know about Dresden?
NM - "The club has a long tradition and are an eastern German team in years
gone by and they have played Liverpool and Manchester City in recent times.
They've got a lot of history and are on the up and they have a fantastic
stadium and we're looking forward to playing in front of a big crowd."
Tell us something about West Ham United?
NM - "We've got a tradition of producing our homegrown exciting players
through the youth system and we're hoping that it may continue. We had three
players play last year and we're hoping to have a few more in the ranks this
season and it's great for the supporters to see local players playing in
their team."
Are you excited to be playing in front of such a big crowd in pre-season?
NM - "As a coach, it is exciting to prepare a game in front of 33,000 and
I'm sure a few of the young boys haven't played in front of that amount of
fans before.
We've had a good pre-season and the young lads are progressing well. We've
got a few weeks left and we're happy with how things have gone so far."
What are the main differences between English and German football?
NM - "German football comes across as a very technical game. The English
game is the same but played at a higher tempo so we'll see who comes out on
top."
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Maynard making waves
WHUFC.com
Nicky Maynard is scoring goals and relishing his new role in the West Ham
United lineup
24.07.2012
Nicky Maynard has vowed to keep working hard after another impressive
performance saw him play a pivotal role in the West Ham United's 2-1 win at
Colchester United on Saturday. The forward opened the scoring with a superb
volley - his second pre-season goal after netting a header at Southend
United - before winning a penalty that Mark Noble calmly dispatched for the
eventual winner. Usually a centre forward, Maynard was deployed on the right
side of a front three, and despite it not being his natural position he
insists he's happy to play wherever he is needed. "I've been playing wider
than I usually do," he confirmed to West Ham TV. "The gaffer has said it's
more than likely we will be playing this formation so it's good for me to
get used to the role. "That doesn't mean I won't get chance to play through
the middle, but it's another position for me to learn."
And the 25-year-old, who has jetted off with his team-mates for a week-long
tour to eastern Germany, believes his hard work and willingness is already
reapingrewards as he continues to develop a better understanding of the
players around him. "It's good for me to get used to playing in that area,
it will help me get on the same wavelength as the midfield. We showed it on
Saturday. Me and Mark (Noble) linked well on a few occasions, particularly
for the penalty."
The former Bristol City forward also took a moment to reflect on his goal,
admitting he had learnt from previous situations in which he failed to find
the target.
"We played Cardiff away [in March] and I had a similar chance but I blazed
it over, so I just concentrated on keeping it low and luckily it's bounced
up and hit the back of the net. "It's nice to get another goal and hopefully
I'll be able to get a few more before the season starts."
The club completed the signing of Mali international forward Modibo Maiga
last week, but Maynard refused to believe new signings will bring anything
but positives to the team. "If we play the formation we did today throughout
the season and we've only got three strikers then it's not going to get the
best out of us. "More competition is healthy for the squad, it means it's up
to you to stake a claim and take the chance when you get it. It's great for
the team."
Maynard also paid tribute to the club's decision to begin their pre-season
schedule a week earlier than usual, giving players the opportunity to
steadily build up their fitness ahead of the start of the Barclays Premier
League season on 18 August. "It's a longer pre-season than many teams but we
haven't come in and been expected to be ready. "We've gradually been able to
build out fitness and the lads are really enjoying it and looking forward to
the opener against Aston Villa."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
White is claret and blue
WHUFC.com
Team GB striker and Hammers fan Ellen White is looking forward to London
2012
24.07.2012
She might regularly pull on the red and white of Arsenal, but Team GB
women's striker Ellen White is claret and blue through and through. The
23-year-old is one of six Arsenal Ladies players included in Hope Powell's
squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games - as well as being a lifelong West
Ham United supporter. Aylesbury-born White came through the ranks at Arsenal
before re-joining the club following spells at Chelsea and Leeds Carnegie.
Since her return, she has established herself as the Gunners' first-choice
No9, scoring seven goals in 16 appearances so far during the current FA
Women's Super League season. At international level, White represented
England at age-group level and has now earned 29 senior caps, scoring nine
goals. Team GB drew 0-0 with Sweden in their final warm-up match last Friday
evening and will start their Olympic campaign by taking on New Zealand in
Cardiff on Wednesday. The Ladies will return to the Millennium Stadium to
tackle Cameroon on Saturday 28 July before facing Brazil at Wembley on
Tuesday 31 July.
White spoke to whufc.com ahead to discuss her hopes ahead of London 2012.
Ellen, you were born in Buckinghamshire and have played for Chelsea and
Arsenal, so how did it come to pass that you are a West Ham United fan?
EW - "I know it doesn't make a lot of sense, but my Dad has supported West
Ham since he was young, so me and my brother have taken it on. We try to get
to as many games as possible during the season, which is not as hard as you
might think with the Women's Super League matches being played on Sundays."
Who were your Hammers heroes growing up?
EW - "I used to love Paolo Di Canio, he was awesome. Julian Dicks was also a
bit of a hero of mine with the way he got stuck in, while players like Frank
Lampard were also in my era when I was growing up. At the moment, Ricardo
Vaz Te played really well last season and I like watching Carlton Cole. I'm
also really glad that
James Tomkins is in the men's squad for London 2012."
With 12 nations taking part and England reaching the FIFA Women's World Cup
quarter-finals in 2011, you must have realistic hopes of winning a medal at
London 2012?
EW - "I think we have got a great chance. Our group is pretty tough but we
have got a good team. Our coach keeps saying we need to get out of our group
and try to finish top if we can to give us an easier quarter-final. To be
honest, there is no point in going to the Olympics and not wanting to win
it. It's something completely different and a Team GB will probably never
happen again so all the girls are really excited. We don't want to look too
far forward but we have got to aim for the medals."
As you say, a Team GB is something unique. How have things gone since the
squad met up?
EW - "I think we have got a fantastic squad. We got together on Sunday and
have been gelling really well. Five of the girls are my team-mates at
Arsenal, so I know them really well. It's been a once-in-a-lifetime
experience because I'm going to be playing alongside girls who normally play
for Scotland and Northern Ireland. We have got a great team spirit and
everyone is getting on really well, which can only be a good thing."
I know it's a cliche, but the Olympics and the new Super League can only
help the women's game to grow, can't it?
EW - "Definitely. Having clubs like Arsenal and West Ham supporting their
Ladies' teams can only help them by providing them with backing and
increasing their profiles. The Super League is on a summer break at the
moment and we're unbeaten and eight points clear at the top, so things have
been going well. The World Cup and the Olympics are massive sporting events
and they get great coverage these days, to the women's game is going to
continue to grow."
Finally, when West Ham play Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League this
season, who will you be cheering for?
EW - "I'm a 100 per cent a West Ham fan! I know I play for Arsenal but my
loyalties will always lie with West Ham so I want them to win every time
they play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has returned from West Ham United's pre-season tour of
Germany - just 48 hours after the squad left the UK. The 19-year-old
midfielder, who joined West Ham from Manchester United during the last
transfer window confirmed tonight that he had flown home without kicking a
ball in anger. Morrison, who featured in Friday night's 4-1 friendly defeat
at Grays Athletic and was an unused sub at Colchester the following day
insisted however that there was nothing sinister about his early return.
After rumours began to circulate earlier this evennig speculating about the
reasons for his return to England, Morrison insisted that he had left West
Ham's base due to ill health. Speaking via Twitter, he said: "I have not
been sent home, I'm just really Ill. Thanks for everyone that's said get
well soon."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Not Even a Good Twitter Rumour to Report
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
* Ravel Morrison has flown home from the pre season tour of East Germany.
Apparently with Sam's permission. Hmmm.
* Former West Ham defender Kenny Brown has been appointed assistant manager
at Barnet. His teammate from the early 1990s, Mark Robson, is manager.
* Barnet's West Ham connection has been further strengthened by the signing
of former Hammers youth team member Anthony Edgar from Yeovil.
* Demba Ba is said to be the target of a bid by Russian side Rubin Kazan.
No, me neither.
* WBA's Swedish defender Jonas Olsson has said he would relish the chance to
play in London. Go figure.
* Joey Barton is on Sam Allardyce's shopping list.
* Not really. Just wanted to get you going.
* And that's what I am reduced to tonight. Nothing else happening.
* Still, we can look forward to tomorrow night's friendly at Rot Weiss
Essen. Jawohl, mein Lieber.
* Er, goodnight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Callin' Collins
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:02
WEST HAM want James Collins back — for £2million. The defender, 28, joined
the Hammers from Cardiff in 2005 before signing for Aston Villa.
Villa boss Paul Lambert is set to let Collins go if he can find a
replacement.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United were working hard as they prepare for Wednesday's game with
Rot Weiss Erfurt
24.07.2012
West Ham United continued their pre-season schedule with yet another
hard-working session in Dresden on Tuesday. With the hot sun beaming down,
the players cycled from their hotel to the nearby training ground after
breakfast to take part in a strenuous work-out before completing their
morning's work with a competitive and lively practice game. After lunch and
a rest, it will be more of the same this evening when manager Sam Allardyce
and assistant manager Neil McDonald put the players through a second session
ahead of the tour's opening match with Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday. While
the strikers took the limelight on Monday, it was the turn of the defenders,
including Winston Reid and George McCartney, to take the praise of the
manager during the intense session. George Moncur, who spoke to West Ham TV
earlier on Tuesday, and the other younger members of the squad look likely
to get a run-out on Wednesday so were working hard to catch the eye of the
coaching staff. The training session also attracted some local fans and a
German TV crew, who got the chance to speak to Ricardo Vaz Te about the
game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca's media day
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald has sat down with a German TV company to talk about West Ham's
United's pre-season tour
24.07.2012
West Ham United's arrival in Dresden has caused quite a stir amongst the
locals as they bid to find out more about their high-profile visitors. After
a police escort from Dresden International Airport to the team hotel in the
German city, assistant manager Neil McDonald sat down with local television
company MDR TV to talk about the Hammers' hopes for their six-day trip. West
Ham will train hard in Germany before facing Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening, Dynamo Dresden in front of a sellout 33,000 crowd on Friday and
Energie Cottbus on Sunday afterrnoon.
Neil, why did you decide to come to Dresden?
NM - "We've tried different countries like Austria and Switzerland. We were
invited to come and play three games in Germany. I came across last month
and the
hotel and facilities are first class so it's nice to be here and we look
forward to the three games."
What do you know about Dresden?
NM - "The club has a long tradition and are an eastern German team in years
gone by and they have played Liverpool and Manchester City in recent times.
They've got a lot of history and are on the up and they have a fantastic
stadium and we're looking forward to playing in front of a big crowd."
Tell us something about West Ham United?
NM - "We've got a tradition of producing our homegrown exciting players
through the youth system and we're hoping that it may continue. We had three
players play last year and we're hoping to have a few more in the ranks this
season and it's great for the supporters to see local players playing in
their team."
Are you excited to be playing in front of such a big crowd in pre-season?
NM - "As a coach, it is exciting to prepare a game in front of 33,000 and
I'm sure a few of the young boys haven't played in front of that amount of
fans before.
We've had a good pre-season and the young lads are progressing well. We've
got a few weeks left and we're happy with how things have gone so far."
What are the main differences between English and German football?
NM - "German football comes across as a very technical game. The English
game is the same but played at a higher tempo so we'll see who comes out on
top."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Maynard making waves
WHUFC.com
Nicky Maynard is scoring goals and relishing his new role in the West Ham
United lineup
24.07.2012
Nicky Maynard has vowed to keep working hard after another impressive
performance saw him play a pivotal role in the West Ham United's 2-1 win at
Colchester United on Saturday. The forward opened the scoring with a superb
volley - his second pre-season goal after netting a header at Southend
United - before winning a penalty that Mark Noble calmly dispatched for the
eventual winner. Usually a centre forward, Maynard was deployed on the right
side of a front three, and despite it not being his natural position he
insists he's happy to play wherever he is needed. "I've been playing wider
than I usually do," he confirmed to West Ham TV. "The gaffer has said it's
more than likely we will be playing this formation so it's good for me to
get used to the role. "That doesn't mean I won't get chance to play through
the middle, but it's another position for me to learn."
And the 25-year-old, who has jetted off with his team-mates for a week-long
tour to eastern Germany, believes his hard work and willingness is already
reapingrewards as he continues to develop a better understanding of the
players around him. "It's good for me to get used to playing in that area,
it will help me get on the same wavelength as the midfield. We showed it on
Saturday. Me and Mark (Noble) linked well on a few occasions, particularly
for the penalty."
The former Bristol City forward also took a moment to reflect on his goal,
admitting he had learnt from previous situations in which he failed to find
the target.
"We played Cardiff away [in March] and I had a similar chance but I blazed
it over, so I just concentrated on keeping it low and luckily it's bounced
up and hit the back of the net. "It's nice to get another goal and hopefully
I'll be able to get a few more before the season starts."
The club completed the signing of Mali international forward Modibo Maiga
last week, but Maynard refused to believe new signings will bring anything
but positives to the team. "If we play the formation we did today throughout
the season and we've only got three strikers then it's not going to get the
best out of us. "More competition is healthy for the squad, it means it's up
to you to stake a claim and take the chance when you get it. It's great for
the team."
Maynard also paid tribute to the club's decision to begin their pre-season
schedule a week earlier than usual, giving players the opportunity to
steadily build up their fitness ahead of the start of the Barclays Premier
League season on 18 August. "It's a longer pre-season than many teams but we
haven't come in and been expected to be ready. "We've gradually been able to
build out fitness and the lads are really enjoying it and looking forward to
the opener against Aston Villa."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
White is claret and blue
WHUFC.com
Team GB striker and Hammers fan Ellen White is looking forward to London
2012
24.07.2012
She might regularly pull on the red and white of Arsenal, but Team GB
women's striker Ellen White is claret and blue through and through. The
23-year-old is one of six Arsenal Ladies players included in Hope Powell's
squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games - as well as being a lifelong West
Ham United supporter. Aylesbury-born White came through the ranks at Arsenal
before re-joining the club following spells at Chelsea and Leeds Carnegie.
Since her return, she has established herself as the Gunners' first-choice
No9, scoring seven goals in 16 appearances so far during the current FA
Women's Super League season. At international level, White represented
England at age-group level and has now earned 29 senior caps, scoring nine
goals. Team GB drew 0-0 with Sweden in their final warm-up match last Friday
evening and will start their Olympic campaign by taking on New Zealand in
Cardiff on Wednesday. The Ladies will return to the Millennium Stadium to
tackle Cameroon on Saturday 28 July before facing Brazil at Wembley on
Tuesday 31 July.
White spoke to whufc.com ahead to discuss her hopes ahead of London 2012.
Ellen, you were born in Buckinghamshire and have played for Chelsea and
Arsenal, so how did it come to pass that you are a West Ham United fan?
EW - "I know it doesn't make a lot of sense, but my Dad has supported West
Ham since he was young, so me and my brother have taken it on. We try to get
to as many games as possible during the season, which is not as hard as you
might think with the Women's Super League matches being played on Sundays."
Who were your Hammers heroes growing up?
EW - "I used to love Paolo Di Canio, he was awesome. Julian Dicks was also a
bit of a hero of mine with the way he got stuck in, while players like Frank
Lampard were also in my era when I was growing up. At the moment, Ricardo
Vaz Te played really well last season and I like watching Carlton Cole. I'm
also really glad that
James Tomkins is in the men's squad for London 2012."
With 12 nations taking part and England reaching the FIFA Women's World Cup
quarter-finals in 2011, you must have realistic hopes of winning a medal at
London 2012?
EW - "I think we have got a great chance. Our group is pretty tough but we
have got a good team. Our coach keeps saying we need to get out of our group
and try to finish top if we can to give us an easier quarter-final. To be
honest, there is no point in going to the Olympics and not wanting to win
it. It's something completely different and a Team GB will probably never
happen again so all the girls are really excited. We don't want to look too
far forward but we have got to aim for the medals."
As you say, a Team GB is something unique. How have things gone since the
squad met up?
EW - "I think we have got a fantastic squad. We got together on Sunday and
have been gelling really well. Five of the girls are my team-mates at
Arsenal, so I know them really well. It's been a once-in-a-lifetime
experience because I'm going to be playing alongside girls who normally play
for Scotland and Northern Ireland. We have got a great team spirit and
everyone is getting on really well, which can only be a good thing."
I know it's a cliche, but the Olympics and the new Super League can only
help the women's game to grow, can't it?
EW - "Definitely. Having clubs like Arsenal and West Ham supporting their
Ladies' teams can only help them by providing them with backing and
increasing their profiles. The Super League is on a summer break at the
moment and we're unbeaten and eight points clear at the top, so things have
been going well. The World Cup and the Olympics are massive sporting events
and they get great coverage these days, to the women's game is going to
continue to grow."
Finally, when West Ham play Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League this
season, who will you be cheering for?
EW - "I'm a 100 per cent a West Ham fan! I know I play for Arsenal but my
loyalties will always lie with West Ham so I want them to win every time
they play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 24th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has returned from West Ham United's pre-season tour of
Germany - just 48 hours after the squad left the UK. The 19-year-old
midfielder, who joined West Ham from Manchester United during the last
transfer window confirmed tonight that he had flown home without kicking a
ball in anger. Morrison, who featured in Friday night's 4-1 friendly defeat
at Grays Athletic and was an unused sub at Colchester the following day
insisted however that there was nothing sinister about his early return.
After rumours began to circulate earlier this evennig speculating about the
reasons for his return to England, Morrison insisted that he had left West
Ham's base due to ill health. Speaking via Twitter, he said: "I have not
been sent home, I'm just really Ill. Thanks for everyone that's said get
well soon."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Not Even a Good Twitter Rumour to Report
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
* Ravel Morrison has flown home from the pre season tour of East Germany.
Apparently with Sam's permission. Hmmm.
* Former West Ham defender Kenny Brown has been appointed assistant manager
at Barnet. His teammate from the early 1990s, Mark Robson, is manager.
* Barnet's West Ham connection has been further strengthened by the signing
of former Hammers youth team member Anthony Edgar from Yeovil.
* Demba Ba is said to be the target of a bid by Russian side Rubin Kazan.
No, me neither.
* WBA's Swedish defender Jonas Olsson has said he would relish the chance to
play in London. Go figure.
* Joey Barton is on Sam Allardyce's shopping list.
* Not really. Just wanted to get you going.
* And that's what I am reduced to tonight. Nothing else happening.
* Still, we can look forward to tomorrow night's friendly at Rot Weiss
Essen. Jawohl, mein Lieber.
* Er, goodnight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Callin' Collins
The Sun
Published: Today at 00:02
WEST HAM want James Collins back — for £2million. The defender, 28, joined
the Hammers from Cardiff in 2005 before signing for Aston Villa.
Villa boss Paul Lambert is set to let Collins go if he can find a
replacement.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 24
Daily WHUFC News - 24th July 2012
Hammers sign Spiegel
WHUFC.com
Switzerland U20 goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel has agreed a three-year deal with
West Ham United
23.07.2012
West Ham United are delighted to confirm the signing of promising young
goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from Grasshopper Club Zurich for an undisclosed
fee. Spiegel, a Switzerland Under-20 international, has signed a contract
until 2015 with an option for a further year and will arrive at Chadwell
Heath this week. The 19-year-old has represented his country at U17, U18,
U19 and U20 level and is regarded as one of his country's outstanding
prospects. The 6'3 tall goalkeeper's most-recent international appearance
saw him keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 U20 friendly victory in Portugal in
April 2012 - his second cap at that age-group level. Previously, he made
four appearances for Switzerland's U19s and travelled to the FIFA U17 World
Cup finals in Nigeria in 2009. Despite his tender years, Spiegel has already
amassed a decent amount of first-team experience at club level, appearing 17
times for SC Bruhl SG in the Swiss Challenge League - the second highest
tier in his homeland - last season. The previous two campaigns saw Spiegel
play a combined 41 games for Grasshopper Club's second team in the 1.Liga -
the third tier of Swiss football. The teenager is expected to provide
support and cover for senior goalkeepers and fellow summer recruits Jussi
Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson as Sam Allardyce shapes up his squad for
the new Barclays Premier League season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Touch down in Germany
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is hoping for a memorable week as West Ham United arrived in
Germany on Monday
23.07.2012
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to an exciting week ahead after West Ham
United landed in Germany on Monday afternoon. Big Sam, the rest of the
coaching staff and the first-team squad touched down slightly later than
planned in Dresden at the start of a six day tour that will include three
matches and intense training sessions in the sunshine. The Hammers will kick
off their trip with a friendly game against Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening before games against Dynamo Dresden on Friday and Energie Cottbus on
Sunday. "We know we are in for a series of tough games and have already had
some difficult games against teams from the lower leagues in England this
pre-season," Allardyce said. "We will not be taking any of the games
lightly."
Kevin Nolan was a welcome sight as the team assembled at the airport early
on Monday morning after he was forced off early in the first half of 2-1
victory against Colchester United on Saturday. After initial tests on the
West Ham United captain's foot showed promising news, he has travelled with
the team to Germany with further results expected later in the week. Nolan
was joined by the full complement of first-team players with only James
Tomkins and Mohamed Diame missing due to their Olympic football commitments.
Modibo Maiga is expected to join up with the squad later in the week after
signing on Thursday as the Hammers gear up for games in front of sell-out
crowds with hundreds of Hammers fans expected to turn out alongside the
large home support.
"We are all really looking forward to the games and the huge number of
spectators coming is exciting. We have brought a very strong squad with us
to Germany, with a few youngsters coming in to aid their development as
well. "I am hoping the fans will see some strong performances and hopefully
there will be some exciting games for everyone to watch."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Kenzer revels in Torch Relay
WHUFC.com
Kenzer Lee has told of his pride at carrying the Olympic Torch through the
streets of his native east London
23.07.2012
Kenzer Lee has hailed carrying the Olympic Torch as one of the best
experiences of his life. The West Ham United first-year professional became
one of the 8,000 lucky runners to take part in the Torch Relay when he ran
along Dagenham Heathway on Sunday afternoon. After passing the Torch on to
the next runner, the Beckton-born centre-back caught up with young reporter
and Hammers supporter Willis Jamieson to talk about his big moment and his
hopes of breaking into Sam Allardyce's first-team squad this season.
How did it feel carrying the Olympic Torch?
KL: It was a great experience, unbelievable the amount of people that turned
up to line the route. There was a great atmosphere. When I got dropped off
by the Torchbearers coach to my waiting spot, my family were there to get
photos of me, then loads of others were crowding round to have their photos
taken, it was an amazing experience.
How did you get chosen?
KL: My sister put my name forward first of all, which was accepted. Then I
had to write an application about myself and it went through a number of
other stages and eventually I was told I was successful. I was an Olympic
Torchbearer!
You said that scoring the winner for West Ham United against Wolverhampton
Wanderers in last season's FA Youth Cup was the best feeling ever - how does
this compare?
KL: To be fair I think the Torch Relay just edged it. Carrying the Olympic
Torch is something I will never experience again, and an experience I'll
always treasure. Hopefully I will end up scoring lots of times for West Ham,
but that can never be repeated.
What are you looking forward to most about the Olympics?
KL: The track events interest me the most, the 100m and 200m competitions
are always good and I'm really looking forward to watching Usain Bolt
perform.
If we can find out about more about you now, tell us about your life before
West Ham United?
KL: I was quite late getting into football. I only really started playing at
the age of ten. I played Sunday league football for Royal Falcons in Beckton
for a year and then I got scouted by West Ham while playing for my school
team. I was playing in the year above and with that team we won the National
Cup which is when I was noticed by the West Ham scout.
You were also scouted by Tottenham Hotspur and Millwall, so how did it make
you feel having so many clubs wanting you?
KL: Well, I was quite young and of course it was exciting, but being young
my Dad was making the decisions and as soon as West Ham showed interest I
wasn't going to go anywhere else. I didn't know the scout was watching so
after the game he spoke to my Dad. On the way home Dad told me West Ham
wanted me to go over there - it felt really good!
Which player do you most liken yourself to?
KL: I don't know really, I suppose I'd like to think someone like [Chelsea
and England centre-back] Gary Cahill.
Since Sam Allardyce has been at the club it seems the Academy players mix a
lot more with the first team. How has that been for you?
KL: It's a great experience to play in front of him. We all try our best to
impress him, you have to treat each training session as if it's your last
especially if he is watching as we all want to impress him.
Which other young players do you think might make a good impression on him
and make a step up to the first team?
KL: Well Rob Hall and Dan Potts are both quality and we've already seen them
a bit last season, but I think we'll see more of them this time round. A few
others have the chance of making an impression - Matthias Fanimo, Blair
Turgott and Leo Chambers are all excellent players… and you never know,
hopefully myself.
Do you think you're in with a chance of making your first-team debut this
season?
Yes, why not? I just need to make sure I perform in training, perform when
the right people are watching me and if I do get the chance, maybe in the
Carling Cup, then I need to take my chance. I'd love to get a run in the
first team, maybe the Carling Cup is the most likely first of all. I might
end up going on loan, but I am working at getting into the first team as
soon as I can really.
*Follow Willis Jamieson on twitter @WillisJamieson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham sign a third 'keeper
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have moved to snap up a third goalkeeper within the space of
just six months. 19-year-old Raphael Spiegel, a Swiss youth international
has signed a three-year contract with the Hammers, joining Jussi
Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson - who both signed permanent deals earlier
in pre-season - at the club.
Effectively replacing the outgoing Marek Stech - who has joined Yeovil Town
- and Peter Kurucz, who has been on trial with Crystal Palace, Spiegal has
moved to London from Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee. Despite his tender
years the youngster has already made 58 first team appearances in
Switzerland's second and third tier for the Zurich club's reserve team and
SC Bruhl.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Trio keen on Barca gem
Club hierarchy to discuss Deulofeu's future
By Francisco Acedo & Graeme Bailey. Last Updated: July 23, 2012 2:59pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands that Liverpool, West Ham United and Queens Park
Rangers have all expressed an interest in Barcelona starlet Gerard Deulofeu.
The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the top prospects within the club's
youth system and has a contract to 2014. However, the young winger is
believed to want to play first-team football next year having spent the last
few seasons with Barca's B side. He is due to return to training this week
having helped Spain's Under-19 side to their second successive European
crown.
Contact
And, with Barca ready to open talks with him about his future, a host of
clubs have now made contact, including Liverpool, West Ham and QPR. Barca
are not believed to be considering a sale, but are looking at whether to
loan him or promote him to the first team. New first team coach Tito
Vilanova and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta are due to meet this week
to discuss Deulofeu's future. Sources close to the player have indicated in
the local press he would prefer to stay in his native Catalunya. Deulofeu
made his senior debut for Barca last term, featuring twice under Pep
Guardiola.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign Swiss keeper
Spiegel to provide cover for Jaaskelainen and Henderson
Last Updated: July 23, 2012 1:00pm
SSN
West Ham United have improved their goalkeeping options by signing Swiss
youngster Raphael Spiegel from Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee. Spiegel
has agreed a three-year contract with the Premier League club, with the
option of a further year, and is due to link up with the Hammers later this
week. The Switzerland Under 20 international has represented his country at
various youth levels and is regarded as one of their leading prospects. He
has previously featured for Grasshoppers' second team in the third tier of
Swiss football and last season had a loan spell with second division club SC
Bruhl SG. The 19-year-old will provide cover in Sam Allardyce's squad for
senior keepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson. Jaaskelainen joined
West Ham on a free transfer from Bolton Wanderers earlier in the summer,
while Henderson finalised a permanent move after finishing last season on
loan from Portsmouth.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leeds Try to Nick Maynard & Other Stories
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So Leeds have put in a bid for Nicky Maynard. Cheeky buggers. It has been
rejected but I'd imagine they will persist. We haven't really seen enough of
Maynard yet to judge whether he will cut it in the Premier League, but
unless they are offering silly money (unlikely) I can't really see any
justification for considering getting rid of him. Same with Sam Baldock. The
only thing that would change my mind on that is if we brought in three
strikers of obviously superior quality.
Jermaine Defoe, eh? Last time I speculated on his return I was almost hung,
drawn and quartered. This time, I suspect more of you would agree with me
that we ought to jump at getting him back. Rumour is, however, that he is
not keen to move back to East London and may be looking to head west to
Queen's Park Rangers. That way lies madness, but it's a path quite a few
players are taking at the moment. He's 29 now, but would still command a fee
of £5 million I imagine. Jordan Rhodes or Jermaine Defoe. Hmmm. Difficult
one.
Robert Snodgrass, the Leeds winger, is the subject of a bid by Norwich City.
He is someone who we have been rumoured to be interested in, but then again,
we're supposedly also after a Barcelona winger on loan, as well as a Spanish
defender and striker.
And today we signed a young Swiss goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from
Grasshoppers Zurich. He's 19 and has represented his country at very level
apart from the senior side. That makes 3 new goalkeepers and means it is
unlikely we'll be signing an established keeper like Paul Robinson. I assume
that means Stephen Henderson is seen as the Number One. Or not.
The first team has departed for a three match tour of Germany today. The
Hammers' first match is a friendly against Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening before games against Dynamo Dresden on Friday and finally, Energie
Cottbus on Sunday.
PS I'm very proud of that headline!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Welcome, young Grasshopper: West Ham sign teenage keeper Raphael Spiegel
from Swiss side
The Mirror
West Ham have signed teenage goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from Swiss side
Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee, the newly-promoted Barclays Premier
League side have announced. The 19-year-old, who is a Switzerland Under-20
international, has penned a three-year contract until 2015 with an option
for a further year and will arrive at the club this week. The 6ft 3in
custodian made 17 appearances for Swiss second tier side SC Bruhl SG last
season, having played 41 games in the previous two campaigns for
Grasshoppers' second team in the third tier. Spiegel is expected to provide
back-up to senior goalkeepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson, who
both joined the Hammers this summer following the club's promotion from the
npower Championship. West Ham have also brought in defender George
McCartney, midfielder Mohamed Diame and forward Modibo Maiga as manager Sam
Allardyce shapes his squad for the new campaign.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Will the real Barry Hearn stand up – and go away
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2012
By: Mr Preview Percy
The recent bout of sunshine has brought Preview Percy out of his close
season hibernation and he's fed up with the moveable feast that is Barry
Hearn...
Let me get a couple of things out of the way first. The Olympic Stadium – I
haven't a clue whether we should move there or not. This is simply because
for all the statements that come from the club which tell us all wonderful
it will all be when we get there, nobody is allowed to say how such Nirvana
is to be achieved due to "confidentiality". Fair enough but until I have
enough information on which to base an opinion I'll hang on until forming
one.
Secondly, I have no axe to grind with Leyton Orient fans per se – to be
honest I struggle to reach mild indifference as far as they're concerned.
No, it's Barry Hearn who gets on my nerves.
Hearn is a man of principle, it has to be said. The trouble is that he seems
to have more than most in that department – and they tend to change pretty
frequently. Throughout the whole Olympic process, at various times he has
been in favour of taking it over for his club, in favour of Spurs taking it
over, then nobody taking it over.
Until recently the place was said to be "totally unfit" for football before
the most recent change of mind saw Hearn revert back to his opening position
of wanting to move in, apparently totally oblivious to the irony of his club
making a move into another borough. Presumably his gracious invitation to
the club already located in the borough in question to share the place is
designed to disguise that particular logical inconsistency.
Hearn's latest pronouncement does rather plumb new depths though:
"I had a Martin Luther King moment. I had a dream. We are a community club
and we tick a lot of boxes. We are debt-free and have a sensible business
plan. I looked at the Olympic Stadium and said 'why not?'. If our dream is
shared by those people that are in charge of the Olympic facilities, who's
to say what can be achieved? Is it about money legacy, or the real ethos of
the Olympic Games, which is the community aspect?"
Now I realise that the world of sports promotion is prone to hyperbole and
that those involved are not exactly backward in blowing their own trumpets.
However to compare oneself to a Nobel Peace Prize winner who spent his life
– and indeed lost it - campaigning against injustice when your contribution
to the world in which we live includes 'Snooker Loopy' is a bit crass, to
say the least.
Still, he's doing it all for the "community" which must make it alright
surely? Well pardon me for being suspicious, but whenever I hear someone
wealthy use the word "community" my sensors start to twitch. You see, all
too often that word is used to cover a multitude of sins.
You know the sort of thing: "Yes, we're building the nuclear waste plant two
feet from your baby's window but the risk of polonium poisoning is minuscule
when you consider the wider benefits to the community" (translation – yes
it'll be full of radioactive waste but the council is getting shedloads of
money for allowing them to build it there).
Now I'll admit I'm one of life's more cynical coves so I took a step back
from it all thinking "maybe it's just me". However I'm not alone in holding
this opinion. My ally is a surprising one (or, more accurately if you've
been paying attention thus far, a totally unsurprising one). Speaking a few
years back guess who said:
"At the end of the day if someone is misguided enough to think I'm going to
risk my personal fortune for a football club then they should be in a funny
farm. I'm going to put enough in to keep it going and hopefully to have some
fun myself. It's quite selfish. I'm doing this for Barry Hearn. I'm not
doing it for the fans. The number of chairmen who say 'I'm doing it for the
community' - to be honest that's a load of b******s. I'm doing this for me
and I think that's the fans' best hope. I'm never going to fall out of love
with me."
For all Hearn's blustering about the effect of West Ham United moving a few
hundred yards closer to Brisbane Road (and if I were an Orient fan I'd feel
a bit insulted at the suggestion that I wouldn't already be able to find my
way the extra 0.9 miles to the Boleyn if I wanted to) the suggestion has to
be that Hearn's interest in the whole affair is governed more by the
sentiments expressed in his 2006 interview than his 2012 pronouncement -
especially given the fact that it's a matter of record that Hearn would be
the major beneficiary of any sale of Brisbane Road.
If Leyton Orient do go out of business after any move that we make it won't
be our fault – though we'll make a damn good diversionary scapegoat. Hearn
constantly states that their current attendances do not make the club a
viable prospect but conveniently omits the fact that we're on their doorstep
already.
He's fond of quoting the old "Tesco moving next door to the corner shop"
analogy. However given we moved into the Boleyn well before they nicked
Brisbane Road, perhaps a better comparison would be the grumpy old sod who
moves next door to Tesco, opens up a crap corner shop that nobody uses then
complains when they move to the house on the other side.
I have a dream, my a*se...
So do us some favours Barry.
1) If you must open your mouth on subjects other than the dodgy pub games
you make a living from, try and be consistent. Look up on the web to see
what your position was last week - it'll save everyone time in the long run;
2) Stop pretending that your position is prompted by altruistic motives.
Everyone knows they're not, you know that everyone knows that they're not
and it's an insult to everyone's intelligence to suggest otherwise;
3) If you do have to make public pronouncements, pick someone more suitable
to compare yourself to than someone who died defending human rights. And
finally;
4) If you want to curry favour with the public why not locate and destroy
every copy of 'Snooker Loopy' ever pressed. It won't put you in Martin
Luther King's league but it'll make the community a better place – which is
all you are after, isn't it..?
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Arsenal's Park and West Ham striker Piquionne wanted by Saudi club Al Halil
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 23:01, 23 July 2012 | UPDATED: 23:01, 23 July 2012
Daily MAil
Al Halil are keen on Arsenal striker Park Chu-young, 27, and West Ham
striker Frederic Piquionne, 33. The Saudi club, who have also made an offer
for Manchester City's Kolo Toure, want to take Piquionne on a free transfer
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Switzerland U20 goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel has agreed a three-year deal with
West Ham United
23.07.2012
West Ham United are delighted to confirm the signing of promising young
goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from Grasshopper Club Zurich for an undisclosed
fee. Spiegel, a Switzerland Under-20 international, has signed a contract
until 2015 with an option for a further year and will arrive at Chadwell
Heath this week. The 19-year-old has represented his country at U17, U18,
U19 and U20 level and is regarded as one of his country's outstanding
prospects. The 6'3 tall goalkeeper's most-recent international appearance
saw him keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 U20 friendly victory in Portugal in
April 2012 - his second cap at that age-group level. Previously, he made
four appearances for Switzerland's U19s and travelled to the FIFA U17 World
Cup finals in Nigeria in 2009. Despite his tender years, Spiegel has already
amassed a decent amount of first-team experience at club level, appearing 17
times for SC Bruhl SG in the Swiss Challenge League - the second highest
tier in his homeland - last season. The previous two campaigns saw Spiegel
play a combined 41 games for Grasshopper Club's second team in the 1.Liga -
the third tier of Swiss football. The teenager is expected to provide
support and cover for senior goalkeepers and fellow summer recruits Jussi
Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson as Sam Allardyce shapes up his squad for
the new Barclays Premier League season.
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Touch down in Germany
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is hoping for a memorable week as West Ham United arrived in
Germany on Monday
23.07.2012
Sam Allardyce is looking forward to an exciting week ahead after West Ham
United landed in Germany on Monday afternoon. Big Sam, the rest of the
coaching staff and the first-team squad touched down slightly later than
planned in Dresden at the start of a six day tour that will include three
matches and intense training sessions in the sunshine. The Hammers will kick
off their trip with a friendly game against Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening before games against Dynamo Dresden on Friday and Energie Cottbus on
Sunday. "We know we are in for a series of tough games and have already had
some difficult games against teams from the lower leagues in England this
pre-season," Allardyce said. "We will not be taking any of the games
lightly."
Kevin Nolan was a welcome sight as the team assembled at the airport early
on Monday morning after he was forced off early in the first half of 2-1
victory against Colchester United on Saturday. After initial tests on the
West Ham United captain's foot showed promising news, he has travelled with
the team to Germany with further results expected later in the week. Nolan
was joined by the full complement of first-team players with only James
Tomkins and Mohamed Diame missing due to their Olympic football commitments.
Modibo Maiga is expected to join up with the squad later in the week after
signing on Thursday as the Hammers gear up for games in front of sell-out
crowds with hundreds of Hammers fans expected to turn out alongside the
large home support.
"We are all really looking forward to the games and the huge number of
spectators coming is exciting. We have brought a very strong squad with us
to Germany, with a few youngsters coming in to aid their development as
well. "I am hoping the fans will see some strong performances and hopefully
there will be some exciting games for everyone to watch."
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Kenzer revels in Torch Relay
WHUFC.com
Kenzer Lee has told of his pride at carrying the Olympic Torch through the
streets of his native east London
23.07.2012
Kenzer Lee has hailed carrying the Olympic Torch as one of the best
experiences of his life. The West Ham United first-year professional became
one of the 8,000 lucky runners to take part in the Torch Relay when he ran
along Dagenham Heathway on Sunday afternoon. After passing the Torch on to
the next runner, the Beckton-born centre-back caught up with young reporter
and Hammers supporter Willis Jamieson to talk about his big moment and his
hopes of breaking into Sam Allardyce's first-team squad this season.
How did it feel carrying the Olympic Torch?
KL: It was a great experience, unbelievable the amount of people that turned
up to line the route. There was a great atmosphere. When I got dropped off
by the Torchbearers coach to my waiting spot, my family were there to get
photos of me, then loads of others were crowding round to have their photos
taken, it was an amazing experience.
How did you get chosen?
KL: My sister put my name forward first of all, which was accepted. Then I
had to write an application about myself and it went through a number of
other stages and eventually I was told I was successful. I was an Olympic
Torchbearer!
You said that scoring the winner for West Ham United against Wolverhampton
Wanderers in last season's FA Youth Cup was the best feeling ever - how does
this compare?
KL: To be fair I think the Torch Relay just edged it. Carrying the Olympic
Torch is something I will never experience again, and an experience I'll
always treasure. Hopefully I will end up scoring lots of times for West Ham,
but that can never be repeated.
What are you looking forward to most about the Olympics?
KL: The track events interest me the most, the 100m and 200m competitions
are always good and I'm really looking forward to watching Usain Bolt
perform.
If we can find out about more about you now, tell us about your life before
West Ham United?
KL: I was quite late getting into football. I only really started playing at
the age of ten. I played Sunday league football for Royal Falcons in Beckton
for a year and then I got scouted by West Ham while playing for my school
team. I was playing in the year above and with that team we won the National
Cup which is when I was noticed by the West Ham scout.
You were also scouted by Tottenham Hotspur and Millwall, so how did it make
you feel having so many clubs wanting you?
KL: Well, I was quite young and of course it was exciting, but being young
my Dad was making the decisions and as soon as West Ham showed interest I
wasn't going to go anywhere else. I didn't know the scout was watching so
after the game he spoke to my Dad. On the way home Dad told me West Ham
wanted me to go over there - it felt really good!
Which player do you most liken yourself to?
KL: I don't know really, I suppose I'd like to think someone like [Chelsea
and England centre-back] Gary Cahill.
Since Sam Allardyce has been at the club it seems the Academy players mix a
lot more with the first team. How has that been for you?
KL: It's a great experience to play in front of him. We all try our best to
impress him, you have to treat each training session as if it's your last
especially if he is watching as we all want to impress him.
Which other young players do you think might make a good impression on him
and make a step up to the first team?
KL: Well Rob Hall and Dan Potts are both quality and we've already seen them
a bit last season, but I think we'll see more of them this time round. A few
others have the chance of making an impression - Matthias Fanimo, Blair
Turgott and Leo Chambers are all excellent players… and you never know,
hopefully myself.
Do you think you're in with a chance of making your first-team debut this
season?
Yes, why not? I just need to make sure I perform in training, perform when
the right people are watching me and if I do get the chance, maybe in the
Carling Cup, then I need to take my chance. I'd love to get a run in the
first team, maybe the Carling Cup is the most likely first of all. I might
end up going on loan, but I am working at getting into the first team as
soon as I can really.
*Follow Willis Jamieson on twitter @WillisJamieson
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham sign a third 'keeper
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have moved to snap up a third goalkeeper within the space of
just six months. 19-year-old Raphael Spiegel, a Swiss youth international
has signed a three-year contract with the Hammers, joining Jussi
Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson - who both signed permanent deals earlier
in pre-season - at the club.
Effectively replacing the outgoing Marek Stech - who has joined Yeovil Town
- and Peter Kurucz, who has been on trial with Crystal Palace, Spiegal has
moved to London from Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee. Despite his tender
years the youngster has already made 58 first team appearances in
Switzerland's second and third tier for the Zurich club's reserve team and
SC Bruhl.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Trio keen on Barca gem
Club hierarchy to discuss Deulofeu's future
By Francisco Acedo & Graeme Bailey. Last Updated: July 23, 2012 2:59pm
SSN
Sky Sports understands that Liverpool, West Ham United and Queens Park
Rangers have all expressed an interest in Barcelona starlet Gerard Deulofeu.
The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the top prospects within the club's
youth system and has a contract to 2014. However, the young winger is
believed to want to play first-team football next year having spent the last
few seasons with Barca's B side. He is due to return to training this week
having helped Spain's Under-19 side to their second successive European
crown.
Contact
And, with Barca ready to open talks with him about his future, a host of
clubs have now made contact, including Liverpool, West Ham and QPR. Barca
are not believed to be considering a sale, but are looking at whether to
loan him or promote him to the first team. New first team coach Tito
Vilanova and sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta are due to meet this week
to discuss Deulofeu's future. Sources close to the player have indicated in
the local press he would prefer to stay in his native Catalunya. Deulofeu
made his senior debut for Barca last term, featuring twice under Pep
Guardiola.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign Swiss keeper
Spiegel to provide cover for Jaaskelainen and Henderson
Last Updated: July 23, 2012 1:00pm
SSN
West Ham United have improved their goalkeeping options by signing Swiss
youngster Raphael Spiegel from Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee. Spiegel
has agreed a three-year contract with the Premier League club, with the
option of a further year, and is due to link up with the Hammers later this
week. The Switzerland Under 20 international has represented his country at
various youth levels and is regarded as one of their leading prospects. He
has previously featured for Grasshoppers' second team in the third tier of
Swiss football and last season had a loan spell with second division club SC
Bruhl SG. The 19-year-old will provide cover in Sam Allardyce's squad for
senior keepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson. Jaaskelainen joined
West Ham on a free transfer from Bolton Wanderers earlier in the summer,
while Henderson finalised a permanent move after finishing last season on
loan from Portsmouth.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leeds Try to Nick Maynard & Other Stories
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
So Leeds have put in a bid for Nicky Maynard. Cheeky buggers. It has been
rejected but I'd imagine they will persist. We haven't really seen enough of
Maynard yet to judge whether he will cut it in the Premier League, but
unless they are offering silly money (unlikely) I can't really see any
justification for considering getting rid of him. Same with Sam Baldock. The
only thing that would change my mind on that is if we brought in three
strikers of obviously superior quality.
Jermaine Defoe, eh? Last time I speculated on his return I was almost hung,
drawn and quartered. This time, I suspect more of you would agree with me
that we ought to jump at getting him back. Rumour is, however, that he is
not keen to move back to East London and may be looking to head west to
Queen's Park Rangers. That way lies madness, but it's a path quite a few
players are taking at the moment. He's 29 now, but would still command a fee
of £5 million I imagine. Jordan Rhodes or Jermaine Defoe. Hmmm. Difficult
one.
Robert Snodgrass, the Leeds winger, is the subject of a bid by Norwich City.
He is someone who we have been rumoured to be interested in, but then again,
we're supposedly also after a Barcelona winger on loan, as well as a Spanish
defender and striker.
And today we signed a young Swiss goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from
Grasshoppers Zurich. He's 19 and has represented his country at very level
apart from the senior side. That makes 3 new goalkeepers and means it is
unlikely we'll be signing an established keeper like Paul Robinson. I assume
that means Stephen Henderson is seen as the Number One. Or not.
The first team has departed for a three match tour of Germany today. The
Hammers' first match is a friendly against Rot Weiss Erfurt on Wednesday
evening before games against Dynamo Dresden on Friday and finally, Energie
Cottbus on Sunday.
PS I'm very proud of that headline!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Welcome, young Grasshopper: West Ham sign teenage keeper Raphael Spiegel
from Swiss side
The Mirror
West Ham have signed teenage goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel from Swiss side
Grasshoppers for an undisclosed fee, the newly-promoted Barclays Premier
League side have announced. The 19-year-old, who is a Switzerland Under-20
international, has penned a three-year contract until 2015 with an option
for a further year and will arrive at the club this week. The 6ft 3in
custodian made 17 appearances for Swiss second tier side SC Bruhl SG last
season, having played 41 games in the previous two campaigns for
Grasshoppers' second team in the third tier. Spiegel is expected to provide
back-up to senior goalkeepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson, who
both joined the Hammers this summer following the club's promotion from the
npower Championship. West Ham have also brought in defender George
McCartney, midfielder Mohamed Diame and forward Modibo Maiga as manager Sam
Allardyce shapes his squad for the new campaign.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Will the real Barry Hearn stand up – and go away
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 23rd July 2012
By: Mr Preview Percy
The recent bout of sunshine has brought Preview Percy out of his close
season hibernation and he's fed up with the moveable feast that is Barry
Hearn...
Let me get a couple of things out of the way first. The Olympic Stadium – I
haven't a clue whether we should move there or not. This is simply because
for all the statements that come from the club which tell us all wonderful
it will all be when we get there, nobody is allowed to say how such Nirvana
is to be achieved due to "confidentiality". Fair enough but until I have
enough information on which to base an opinion I'll hang on until forming
one.
Secondly, I have no axe to grind with Leyton Orient fans per se – to be
honest I struggle to reach mild indifference as far as they're concerned.
No, it's Barry Hearn who gets on my nerves.
Hearn is a man of principle, it has to be said. The trouble is that he seems
to have more than most in that department – and they tend to change pretty
frequently. Throughout the whole Olympic process, at various times he has
been in favour of taking it over for his club, in favour of Spurs taking it
over, then nobody taking it over.
Until recently the place was said to be "totally unfit" for football before
the most recent change of mind saw Hearn revert back to his opening position
of wanting to move in, apparently totally oblivious to the irony of his club
making a move into another borough. Presumably his gracious invitation to
the club already located in the borough in question to share the place is
designed to disguise that particular logical inconsistency.
Hearn's latest pronouncement does rather plumb new depths though:
"I had a Martin Luther King moment. I had a dream. We are a community club
and we tick a lot of boxes. We are debt-free and have a sensible business
plan. I looked at the Olympic Stadium and said 'why not?'. If our dream is
shared by those people that are in charge of the Olympic facilities, who's
to say what can be achieved? Is it about money legacy, or the real ethos of
the Olympic Games, which is the community aspect?"
Now I realise that the world of sports promotion is prone to hyperbole and
that those involved are not exactly backward in blowing their own trumpets.
However to compare oneself to a Nobel Peace Prize winner who spent his life
– and indeed lost it - campaigning against injustice when your contribution
to the world in which we live includes 'Snooker Loopy' is a bit crass, to
say the least.
Still, he's doing it all for the "community" which must make it alright
surely? Well pardon me for being suspicious, but whenever I hear someone
wealthy use the word "community" my sensors start to twitch. You see, all
too often that word is used to cover a multitude of sins.
You know the sort of thing: "Yes, we're building the nuclear waste plant two
feet from your baby's window but the risk of polonium poisoning is minuscule
when you consider the wider benefits to the community" (translation – yes
it'll be full of radioactive waste but the council is getting shedloads of
money for allowing them to build it there).
Now I'll admit I'm one of life's more cynical coves so I took a step back
from it all thinking "maybe it's just me". However I'm not alone in holding
this opinion. My ally is a surprising one (or, more accurately if you've
been paying attention thus far, a totally unsurprising one). Speaking a few
years back guess who said:
"At the end of the day if someone is misguided enough to think I'm going to
risk my personal fortune for a football club then they should be in a funny
farm. I'm going to put enough in to keep it going and hopefully to have some
fun myself. It's quite selfish. I'm doing this for Barry Hearn. I'm not
doing it for the fans. The number of chairmen who say 'I'm doing it for the
community' - to be honest that's a load of b******s. I'm doing this for me
and I think that's the fans' best hope. I'm never going to fall out of love
with me."
For all Hearn's blustering about the effect of West Ham United moving a few
hundred yards closer to Brisbane Road (and if I were an Orient fan I'd feel
a bit insulted at the suggestion that I wouldn't already be able to find my
way the extra 0.9 miles to the Boleyn if I wanted to) the suggestion has to
be that Hearn's interest in the whole affair is governed more by the
sentiments expressed in his 2006 interview than his 2012 pronouncement -
especially given the fact that it's a matter of record that Hearn would be
the major beneficiary of any sale of Brisbane Road.
If Leyton Orient do go out of business after any move that we make it won't
be our fault – though we'll make a damn good diversionary scapegoat. Hearn
constantly states that their current attendances do not make the club a
viable prospect but conveniently omits the fact that we're on their doorstep
already.
He's fond of quoting the old "Tesco moving next door to the corner shop"
analogy. However given we moved into the Boleyn well before they nicked
Brisbane Road, perhaps a better comparison would be the grumpy old sod who
moves next door to Tesco, opens up a crap corner shop that nobody uses then
complains when they move to the house on the other side.
I have a dream, my a*se...
So do us some favours Barry.
1) If you must open your mouth on subjects other than the dodgy pub games
you make a living from, try and be consistent. Look up on the web to see
what your position was last week - it'll save everyone time in the long run;
2) Stop pretending that your position is prompted by altruistic motives.
Everyone knows they're not, you know that everyone knows that they're not
and it's an insult to everyone's intelligence to suggest otherwise;
3) If you do have to make public pronouncements, pick someone more suitable
to compare yourself to than someone who died defending human rights. And
finally;
4) If you want to curry favour with the public why not locate and destroy
every copy of 'Snooker Loopy' ever pressed. It won't put you in Martin
Luther King's league but it'll make the community a better place – which is
all you are after, isn't it..?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Arsenal's Park and West Ham striker Piquionne wanted by Saudi club Al Halil
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 23:01, 23 July 2012 | UPDATED: 23:01, 23 July 2012
Daily MAil
Al Halil are keen on Arsenal striker Park Chu-young, 27, and West Ham
striker Frederic Piquionne, 33. The Saudi club, who have also made an offer
for Manchester City's Kolo Toure, want to take Piquionne on a free transfer
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, July 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd July 2012
Cole happy with Colchester win
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole was glad to see West Ham United get back to winning ways at
Colchester United
21.07.2012
Carlton Cole is pleased to see everyone putting in the hard work during
pre-season as West Ham United get ready for the new Barclays Premier League
campaign ahead. The Hammers ran out 2-1 winners against Colchester United on
Saturday thanks to Nicky Maynard's opener and Mark Noble scoring from the
penalty spot. Cole was involved in the build-up to Maynard's goal and he
explained afterwards that he is happy with how the Hammers' attacking play
is coming together at this early stage of the season. "It was nice to see us
do that link-up early in the pre-season," Cole said. "This is what we need -
to be a tight unit as early as possible and I think that will see us
confident for the start of the season. "We have players who are not yet fit,
those who are away on Olympic duty and hopefully new players to come in, so
by the time they are here, they can all gel in nicely. "It was a tough game
but that is what you want. It was a good game and a nice new stadium to play
in. There was a good atmosphere and they had lots of fans but once again we
also had terrific support from our fans. It was good to see and meet them."
The only negative of the game was captain Kevin Nolan going off in the first
half with a toe injury, but that enabled young defender Dan Potts to make
his return to the side after missing Tuesday's friendly at Oxford United
with a head injury picked up at Southend United last weekend. The results of
Nolan's scan on Saturday night are still being prepared but Cole is wishing
his skipper well. "Hopefully Kev will be ok, if not for the very next game
but after that. He is a strong lad, so hopefully he will be ok."
With the new 2012/13 season now just under four weeks away, thoughts are
already turning to the first game at home to Aston Villa with the manager
and Joint-Chairmen working hard to bring in new additions to the squad
before then. For Cole, who scored West Ham's opener in the Hammers' Play-Off
final victory against Blackpool, goals and targets for the season ahead are
being discussed. But for now, it is all about getting fit and getting
through the rest of pre-season. "People are talking about the new season -
we have Premier League players and you have to be ambitious. But to get to
mid-table in our first season back and then look to progress from there is
what you would be looking at. "You want to replicate the likes of Norwich
and Swansea, who did well, and when you look, at Queens Park Rangers
surviving, all the newly promoted teams stayed up. We are looking to try and
do the same. "The gaffer [Sam Allardyce] and the club are working hard to
bring new players in. The manager knows how he wants to improve us before
the start of the season and I am sure he will do that."
Cole and his fellow senior pros have been joined on the pitch in pre-season
by a few of the Hammers up-and-coming Academy stars. With their promotion to
first-team duties, Cole is now viewed as one of the senior members of the
squad - a role he is relishing.. "Yeah, I am one of the older - slightly
older - players now. We have a few young boys in and around the squad and
all I can do is to help and guide them with my experience like I was given.
I missed a couple of games early on and had to do a bit of catch-up, but now
feeling good and I'm looking forward to the next few games."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad return to winning ways
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon hailed his young side after they recorded a 2-1 pre-season
victory at Thurrock on Saturday
21.07.2012
Ian Hendon has hailed the application of his West Ham United Development
Squad as they bounced back to winning ways with a 2-1 pre-season victory at
Thurrock.
Less than 24 hours after being defeated 4-1 at Grays Athletic, leaving their
coach feeling disappointed, the players showed greater resolve,
determination and talent to overcome their Ryman League Premier Division
opponents. Republic of Ireland youth international Kieran Sadlier (pictured)
was the star of the show, scoring twice, while Declan Hunt and Frazer Shaw
were among those who also garnered praise from Hendon. "We were a lot better
than we were on Friday night," said the coach. "Thurrock only managed to
score with a wonder-strike from outside the box that wrong-footed our
goalkeeper, but other than that I was pleased. "Kieran has scored two goals
and we were a lot more competitive than we were on Friday at Grays. I think
the lads who played or watched that game realised what is expected of them.
"They are good footballers but they have got to work hard and graft and earn
the right to play. If they do that, then they can show their talent because
we have got good players. "I was pleased to get a reaction from them because
I don't want to have to blow my top at them every time we play because then
it won't have any effect. "Playing at Grays as they opened their new stadium
- the stadium where the fans had come out to see us and where we will play
our home games this season - I think the occasion got to some of them.
"Hopefully now they have got that out of their systems and we will see more
of what we saw on Saturday at Thurrock during the season to come. "It wasn't
the prettiest of games at Thurrock but it was a tough test and we came
through it."
Aside from Sadlier, Hendon had warm words for Hunt, who has recently
returned to action after missing the whole of last season through injury,
and full-back Shaw.
"Declan was making his second start back after year out and he did well in
the middle of midfield. He came through an hour as planned looking nice and
strong. Frazer did well at left-back, too." The Development Squad continue
their busy pre-season schedule with a trip to Blue Square Bet Premier side
Dartford, and Hendon is challenging his players to rise to the challenge
again. "They are a Conference side so we will have to step it up a bit. If
we match their work-rate and battle then we will be fine."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cole - Hammers can survive
Striker says top flight new boys can emulate other newly promoted clubs
Last Updated: July 22, 2012 8:40pm
SSN
West Ham striker Carlton Cole is confident his newly promoted Hammers side
can survive in the Premier League. Cole scored the opener in the
Championship play-off final against Blackpool at Wembley to help clinch
promotion for the East London outfit at the first time of asking. The
England international says West Ham's primary goal for the forthcoming
season will be survival and believes his side can draw inspiration from
other promoted teams who have gone on to cement their top flight status in
recent campaigns.
Survival aim
"You want to replicate the likes of Norwich and Swansea, who did well, and
when you look at Queens Park Rangers surviving, all the newly promoted sides
stayed up," Cole said. "We are trying to do the same. "But to get mid-table
in our first season back and then look to progress from there is what you
are looking at." West Ham kick-off their Premier League term against Aston
Villa on Saturday 18 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers still looking at duo
Kazim-Richards and Mohsni set to go on trip to Germany
Last Updated: July 22, 2012 12:53pm
SSN
West Ham United are hoping to take former Sheffield United forward Colin
Kazim-Richards and Southend United defender Bilel Mohsni on the club's
pre-season trip to Germany. Kazim-Richards, who is currently on the books of
Galatasaray after a loan spell at Olympiakos last season, and Mohsni have
been training with the Hammers for the last few days. Turkey international
Kazim-Richards played the first half of the 2-1 friendly win over Colchester
United on Saturday, while the versatile Mohsni appeared in the second
period. The pair will be given another opportunity to impress after
assistant manager Neil McDonald confirmed the players are set to travel to
Germany.
Boost
"Colin did all right," McDonald told the club's official website. "He's been
training with us for a few days and he's going to come with us to Germany,
so we'll have a good look at him there. "Our first impressions are that he's
not too bad. "Bilel has been in for a couple of days as well and I think
he's going to come to Germany as well. "We're having a good look at players
to try to complement the squad and boost it up, so we will see how that
goes." The Hammers are scheduled to play Rot-Weiss Erfurt, Dynamo Dresden
and Energie Cottbus during next week's trip to Germany.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Does Mo Diame Afford Us Different Options in Midfield?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
In signing Mo Diame, we have acquired a good quality defensive midfielder. A
player that can shield the defence and give our forwards the added assurance
of solid covering play. Does that mean that we can push the likes of Noble
and Nolan in to more advanced positions or contemplate the introduction of
Jack Collison and Ravel Morrison? What do you think could be some of the
diferent midfield options that Sam Allardyce might be able to expore this
season? Do the likes of Gary O'Neill and Joey O'Brien have a 'work horse
role' to play this season, especially away from home? Could a player like
George Moncur force his way in to first team contention before the end of
the campaign?
Up front, there is speculation that Allardyce might bid for Jermaine Defoe.
Putting aside old anatagonisms, is not Defoe the type of proven PL goal
scorer that we need? It would also open up the prospect of a very
interesting front three, revolving principally around the selection of Vaz
Te, Defoe, Cole and Maiga. Indeed, might Allardyce finally have the
pre-requisite players to implement a successful 4-3-3 formation. Or are
there still concerns that we do not have enough width? Vaz Te and Maiga can
both play in wide positions, but do we need to recruit at least one
conventional wide player? If it is a matter of resources, we already have
players that can play wide-left, so should we prioritise a wide right player
or, preferably, a player like Man City's Adam Johnston that can operate on
either flank?
In defence, where do we need to strengthen? Could we not afford to go with
McCartney, Potts or Taylor at left-back? Is the priority a good right-back
and at least one centre-back to add cover and crucial competition for
places? Might Jordan Spence not contribute to our improved defensive
solidarity by finally 'stepping up to the plate,' in first team terms, and
providing increased options at both right-back and centre half?
Finally, are we happy with the replacements for Robert Green? Can we go into
the new season with Stephen Henderson and Jussi or should we consider
recruiting a third keeper as extra assurance? If so, which keeper should we
target?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southend United's Bilel Mohsni to stay with West Ham United for tour of
Germany
Echo
11:56pm Sunday 22nd July 2012 in Sport By Chris Phillips
BILEL Mohsni will stay with West Ham United for their tour of Germany, which
starts on Monday. The Frenchman, who is with the Hammers on trial from
Southend United, has already played for Sam Allardyce's side against both
Grays Athletic and Colchester United. And he is now relishing the prospect
of spending another week with the Premier League newcomers. "I've been
enjoying the trial and I've learnt a lot here already so I'm very pleased to
be staying here for longer now," said Mohsni. "It's been good to play and
train with their first team players and I think it's definitely helping me
to become a better player. "Hopefully I can keep on improving and can do
enough to get a move to West Ham because being in the biggest league would
be fantastic for me."
Mohsni played the full game for a young Hammers side at Grays Athletic on
Friday night and endured a mixed evening at the heart of the back four. The
Frenchman put the home-side ahead with an inadvertent own goal but, despite
also scoring for West Ham late on, he could not stop his team suffering a
4-1 defeat. However, a far stronger Hammers side were more successful at
Colchester the following day as they recorded a 2-1 triumph at the Community
Stadium. Mohsni played the final 30 minutes in attack and lashed a couple of
long range shots over the target in the closing stages. But he now hopes to
make even more of an impression in Germany as West Ham play three times in
quick succession. The Hammers face FC Rot-Weib Erfurt on Wednesday, Dynamo
Dresden on Friday and FC Energie Cottbus on Sunday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 'eye Spurs' Jermain Defoe after Andy Carroll miss'
Metro.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has reportedly turned his attention to Spurs'
Jermain Defoe, after accepting he will not be able to sign Liverpool's Andy
Carroll.
Allardyce is determined to bring in an experienced Premier League striker
before the transfer window closes and had hoped to take advantage of the
uncertainty surrounding Carroll's future at Anfield to sign him on loan.
Liverpool have made it clear they are only prepared to consider a permanent
move for the ex-Newcastle forward, and he is well out of the Hammers' price
range.
Allardyce now plans to speak to Tottenham about Defoe's availability,
reports the Daily Star Sunday. The 29-year-old started just 11 Premier
League games under Harry Redknapp last season and is not certain to be in
Andre Villas-Boas' plans this term. He is understood to be considering his
options and a return to Upton Park, where he spent five years early in his
career, may be an attractive prospect. Should Defoe end up back at West Ham,
he will link up with Mali international Modibo Maiga, who joined the Hammers
from Sochaux last week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham well fancied to stay up despite defensive question marks
Ladbrokes.co.uk
Despite accumulating fewer points than Reading and Southampton in the
Championship last season and showing less ambition in the transfer market,
West Ham are rated less likely to be relegated on their Premier League
return than both. In fact, there are five teams considered to be in greater
danger of the drop than the 9/4-rated Irons, including a Swansea side (9/5)
who finished 11th in 2011/12 and have already made three fairly high-profile
signings this summer.
West Ham have added five players in this window but two were already at the
club on loan and the others are replacing those released, so they currently
have a thinner squad than the one that wasn't entirely convincing in gaining
promotion. And it isn't like everyone arriving has been an obvious
improvement on those that previously played in their positions. Mohamed
Diame seems an upgrade on Papa Bouba Diop and new forward Modibo Maiga will
need to flop spectacularly to fail to outshine John Carew, but losing star
man Robert Green for 37-year-old Bolton reserve Jussi Jaaskelainen is a
worry.
Also concerning is the lack of numbers at the back, which was an issue last
term yet feels even more troubling following the departure of Abdoulaye Faye
and James Tomkin's call-up to the Great Britain Olympic football team. The
result is that Winston Reid is the only first-team centre back at their
disposal at present, and ideally two alternatives need to be recruited
before the start of the campaign. There is still plenty of time to get more
bodies on board, however the problem is that West Ham's most appetising run
of games comes in the first few weeks, so they need to be at full strength
to fully capitalise on those opportunities. Fail to make the most of it and
they could find themselves in a similar situation to Aston Villa, who drew a
lot of winnable early matches a year ago and were ultimately sentenced to a
season-long struggle.
It is mildly ironic therefore that Villa are West Ham's visitors on the
opening day, in an encounter that Sam Allardyce's side are rated 6/5
favourites to win.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole was glad to see West Ham United get back to winning ways at
Colchester United
21.07.2012
Carlton Cole is pleased to see everyone putting in the hard work during
pre-season as West Ham United get ready for the new Barclays Premier League
campaign ahead. The Hammers ran out 2-1 winners against Colchester United on
Saturday thanks to Nicky Maynard's opener and Mark Noble scoring from the
penalty spot. Cole was involved in the build-up to Maynard's goal and he
explained afterwards that he is happy with how the Hammers' attacking play
is coming together at this early stage of the season. "It was nice to see us
do that link-up early in the pre-season," Cole said. "This is what we need -
to be a tight unit as early as possible and I think that will see us
confident for the start of the season. "We have players who are not yet fit,
those who are away on Olympic duty and hopefully new players to come in, so
by the time they are here, they can all gel in nicely. "It was a tough game
but that is what you want. It was a good game and a nice new stadium to play
in. There was a good atmosphere and they had lots of fans but once again we
also had terrific support from our fans. It was good to see and meet them."
The only negative of the game was captain Kevin Nolan going off in the first
half with a toe injury, but that enabled young defender Dan Potts to make
his return to the side after missing Tuesday's friendly at Oxford United
with a head injury picked up at Southend United last weekend. The results of
Nolan's scan on Saturday night are still being prepared but Cole is wishing
his skipper well. "Hopefully Kev will be ok, if not for the very next game
but after that. He is a strong lad, so hopefully he will be ok."
With the new 2012/13 season now just under four weeks away, thoughts are
already turning to the first game at home to Aston Villa with the manager
and Joint-Chairmen working hard to bring in new additions to the squad
before then. For Cole, who scored West Ham's opener in the Hammers' Play-Off
final victory against Blackpool, goals and targets for the season ahead are
being discussed. But for now, it is all about getting fit and getting
through the rest of pre-season. "People are talking about the new season -
we have Premier League players and you have to be ambitious. But to get to
mid-table in our first season back and then look to progress from there is
what you would be looking at. "You want to replicate the likes of Norwich
and Swansea, who did well, and when you look, at Queens Park Rangers
surviving, all the newly promoted teams stayed up. We are looking to try and
do the same. "The gaffer [Sam Allardyce] and the club are working hard to
bring new players in. The manager knows how he wants to improve us before
the start of the season and I am sure he will do that."
Cole and his fellow senior pros have been joined on the pitch in pre-season
by a few of the Hammers up-and-coming Academy stars. With their promotion to
first-team duties, Cole is now viewed as one of the senior members of the
squad - a role he is relishing.. "Yeah, I am one of the older - slightly
older - players now. We have a few young boys in and around the squad and
all I can do is to help and guide them with my experience like I was given.
I missed a couple of games early on and had to do a bit of catch-up, but now
feeling good and I'm looking forward to the next few games."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dev Squad return to winning ways
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon hailed his young side after they recorded a 2-1 pre-season
victory at Thurrock on Saturday
21.07.2012
Ian Hendon has hailed the application of his West Ham United Development
Squad as they bounced back to winning ways with a 2-1 pre-season victory at
Thurrock.
Less than 24 hours after being defeated 4-1 at Grays Athletic, leaving their
coach feeling disappointed, the players showed greater resolve,
determination and talent to overcome their Ryman League Premier Division
opponents. Republic of Ireland youth international Kieran Sadlier (pictured)
was the star of the show, scoring twice, while Declan Hunt and Frazer Shaw
were among those who also garnered praise from Hendon. "We were a lot better
than we were on Friday night," said the coach. "Thurrock only managed to
score with a wonder-strike from outside the box that wrong-footed our
goalkeeper, but other than that I was pleased. "Kieran has scored two goals
and we were a lot more competitive than we were on Friday at Grays. I think
the lads who played or watched that game realised what is expected of them.
"They are good footballers but they have got to work hard and graft and earn
the right to play. If they do that, then they can show their talent because
we have got good players. "I was pleased to get a reaction from them because
I don't want to have to blow my top at them every time we play because then
it won't have any effect. "Playing at Grays as they opened their new stadium
- the stadium where the fans had come out to see us and where we will play
our home games this season - I think the occasion got to some of them.
"Hopefully now they have got that out of their systems and we will see more
of what we saw on Saturday at Thurrock during the season to come. "It wasn't
the prettiest of games at Thurrock but it was a tough test and we came
through it."
Aside from Sadlier, Hendon had warm words for Hunt, who has recently
returned to action after missing the whole of last season through injury,
and full-back Shaw.
"Declan was making his second start back after year out and he did well in
the middle of midfield. He came through an hour as planned looking nice and
strong. Frazer did well at left-back, too." The Development Squad continue
their busy pre-season schedule with a trip to Blue Square Bet Premier side
Dartford, and Hendon is challenging his players to rise to the challenge
again. "They are a Conference side so we will have to step it up a bit. If
we match their work-rate and battle then we will be fine."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cole - Hammers can survive
Striker says top flight new boys can emulate other newly promoted clubs
Last Updated: July 22, 2012 8:40pm
SSN
West Ham striker Carlton Cole is confident his newly promoted Hammers side
can survive in the Premier League. Cole scored the opener in the
Championship play-off final against Blackpool at Wembley to help clinch
promotion for the East London outfit at the first time of asking. The
England international says West Ham's primary goal for the forthcoming
season will be survival and believes his side can draw inspiration from
other promoted teams who have gone on to cement their top flight status in
recent campaigns.
Survival aim
"You want to replicate the likes of Norwich and Swansea, who did well, and
when you look at Queens Park Rangers surviving, all the newly promoted sides
stayed up," Cole said. "We are trying to do the same. "But to get mid-table
in our first season back and then look to progress from there is what you
are looking at." West Ham kick-off their Premier League term against Aston
Villa on Saturday 18 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers still looking at duo
Kazim-Richards and Mohsni set to go on trip to Germany
Last Updated: July 22, 2012 12:53pm
SSN
West Ham United are hoping to take former Sheffield United forward Colin
Kazim-Richards and Southend United defender Bilel Mohsni on the club's
pre-season trip to Germany. Kazim-Richards, who is currently on the books of
Galatasaray after a loan spell at Olympiakos last season, and Mohsni have
been training with the Hammers for the last few days. Turkey international
Kazim-Richards played the first half of the 2-1 friendly win over Colchester
United on Saturday, while the versatile Mohsni appeared in the second
period. The pair will be given another opportunity to impress after
assistant manager Neil McDonald confirmed the players are set to travel to
Germany.
Boost
"Colin did all right," McDonald told the club's official website. "He's been
training with us for a few days and he's going to come with us to Germany,
so we'll have a good look at him there. "Our first impressions are that he's
not too bad. "Bilel has been in for a couple of days as well and I think
he's going to come to Germany as well. "We're having a good look at players
to try to complement the squad and boost it up, so we will see how that
goes." The Hammers are scheduled to play Rot-Weiss Erfurt, Dynamo Dresden
and Energie Cottbus during next week's trip to Germany.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Does Mo Diame Afford Us Different Options in Midfield?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
In signing Mo Diame, we have acquired a good quality defensive midfielder. A
player that can shield the defence and give our forwards the added assurance
of solid covering play. Does that mean that we can push the likes of Noble
and Nolan in to more advanced positions or contemplate the introduction of
Jack Collison and Ravel Morrison? What do you think could be some of the
diferent midfield options that Sam Allardyce might be able to expore this
season? Do the likes of Gary O'Neill and Joey O'Brien have a 'work horse
role' to play this season, especially away from home? Could a player like
George Moncur force his way in to first team contention before the end of
the campaign?
Up front, there is speculation that Allardyce might bid for Jermaine Defoe.
Putting aside old anatagonisms, is not Defoe the type of proven PL goal
scorer that we need? It would also open up the prospect of a very
interesting front three, revolving principally around the selection of Vaz
Te, Defoe, Cole and Maiga. Indeed, might Allardyce finally have the
pre-requisite players to implement a successful 4-3-3 formation. Or are
there still concerns that we do not have enough width? Vaz Te and Maiga can
both play in wide positions, but do we need to recruit at least one
conventional wide player? If it is a matter of resources, we already have
players that can play wide-left, so should we prioritise a wide right player
or, preferably, a player like Man City's Adam Johnston that can operate on
either flank?
In defence, where do we need to strengthen? Could we not afford to go with
McCartney, Potts or Taylor at left-back? Is the priority a good right-back
and at least one centre-back to add cover and crucial competition for
places? Might Jordan Spence not contribute to our improved defensive
solidarity by finally 'stepping up to the plate,' in first team terms, and
providing increased options at both right-back and centre half?
Finally, are we happy with the replacements for Robert Green? Can we go into
the new season with Stephen Henderson and Jussi or should we consider
recruiting a third keeper as extra assurance? If so, which keeper should we
target?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southend United's Bilel Mohsni to stay with West Ham United for tour of
Germany
Echo
11:56pm Sunday 22nd July 2012 in Sport By Chris Phillips
BILEL Mohsni will stay with West Ham United for their tour of Germany, which
starts on Monday. The Frenchman, who is with the Hammers on trial from
Southend United, has already played for Sam Allardyce's side against both
Grays Athletic and Colchester United. And he is now relishing the prospect
of spending another week with the Premier League newcomers. "I've been
enjoying the trial and I've learnt a lot here already so I'm very pleased to
be staying here for longer now," said Mohsni. "It's been good to play and
train with their first team players and I think it's definitely helping me
to become a better player. "Hopefully I can keep on improving and can do
enough to get a move to West Ham because being in the biggest league would
be fantastic for me."
Mohsni played the full game for a young Hammers side at Grays Athletic on
Friday night and endured a mixed evening at the heart of the back four. The
Frenchman put the home-side ahead with an inadvertent own goal but, despite
also scoring for West Ham late on, he could not stop his team suffering a
4-1 defeat. However, a far stronger Hammers side were more successful at
Colchester the following day as they recorded a 2-1 triumph at the Community
Stadium. Mohsni played the final 30 minutes in attack and lashed a couple of
long range shots over the target in the closing stages. But he now hopes to
make even more of an impression in Germany as West Ham play three times in
quick succession. The Hammers face FC Rot-Weib Erfurt on Wednesday, Dynamo
Dresden on Friday and FC Energie Cottbus on Sunday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham 'eye Spurs' Jermain Defoe after Andy Carroll miss'
Metro.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has reportedly turned his attention to Spurs'
Jermain Defoe, after accepting he will not be able to sign Liverpool's Andy
Carroll.
Allardyce is determined to bring in an experienced Premier League striker
before the transfer window closes and had hoped to take advantage of the
uncertainty surrounding Carroll's future at Anfield to sign him on loan.
Liverpool have made it clear they are only prepared to consider a permanent
move for the ex-Newcastle forward, and he is well out of the Hammers' price
range.
Allardyce now plans to speak to Tottenham about Defoe's availability,
reports the Daily Star Sunday. The 29-year-old started just 11 Premier
League games under Harry Redknapp last season and is not certain to be in
Andre Villas-Boas' plans this term. He is understood to be considering his
options and a return to Upton Park, where he spent five years early in his
career, may be an attractive prospect. Should Defoe end up back at West Ham,
he will link up with Mali international Modibo Maiga, who joined the Hammers
from Sochaux last week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham well fancied to stay up despite defensive question marks
Ladbrokes.co.uk
Despite accumulating fewer points than Reading and Southampton in the
Championship last season and showing less ambition in the transfer market,
West Ham are rated less likely to be relegated on their Premier League
return than both. In fact, there are five teams considered to be in greater
danger of the drop than the 9/4-rated Irons, including a Swansea side (9/5)
who finished 11th in 2011/12 and have already made three fairly high-profile
signings this summer.
West Ham have added five players in this window but two were already at the
club on loan and the others are replacing those released, so they currently
have a thinner squad than the one that wasn't entirely convincing in gaining
promotion. And it isn't like everyone arriving has been an obvious
improvement on those that previously played in their positions. Mohamed
Diame seems an upgrade on Papa Bouba Diop and new forward Modibo Maiga will
need to flop spectacularly to fail to outshine John Carew, but losing star
man Robert Green for 37-year-old Bolton reserve Jussi Jaaskelainen is a
worry.
Also concerning is the lack of numbers at the back, which was an issue last
term yet feels even more troubling following the departure of Abdoulaye Faye
and James Tomkin's call-up to the Great Britain Olympic football team. The
result is that Winston Reid is the only first-team centre back at their
disposal at present, and ideally two alternatives need to be recruited
before the start of the campaign. There is still plenty of time to get more
bodies on board, however the problem is that West Ham's most appetising run
of games comes in the first few weeks, so they need to be at full strength
to fully capitalise on those opportunities. Fail to make the most of it and
they could find themselves in a similar situation to Aston Villa, who drew a
lot of winnable early matches a year ago and were ultimately sentenced to a
season-long struggle.
It is mildly ironic therefore that Villa are West Ham's visitors on the
opening day, in an encounter that Sam Allardyce's side are rated 6/5
favourites to win.
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