Daily WHUFC News - 1st October 2012

QPR match preview
WHUFC.com
All of the early team news and statistics ahead of Monday night's game at
Loftus Road
01.10.2012

QUEENS PARK RANGERS V WEST HAM UNITED
Barclays Premier League
Monday 1 October 2012
KICK-OFF: 8.00pm
REFEREE: Mark Clattenburg

FULL AUDIO AND TEXT COMMENTARY - WEST HAM TV
iPHONE APP I TWITTER I FACEBOOK I PODCAST
Introduction

• West Ham United travel to Loftus Road on Monday to face London rivals
Queens Park Rangers for the first time in just under eight years.
• A Championship encounter at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday 6 November 2004
was the last time the two sides met. West Ham United came away with a 2-1
win that day thanks to goals either side of half time from Marlon Harewood.
• The last time the sides met at tonight's venue, Loftus Road, QPR took all
three points as a solitary goal from Matthew Rose extended the Hoops'
winning streak to seven. The last Premier League meeting between the two
sides also ended in a QPR win on 27 April 1996.
• It has been over 17 years since the two sides shared the points, when on 3
May 1995 the game ended in a goalless draw.
• The Hammers have played just two Barclays Premier League games away from
home so far this season and are still searching for their first win. Their
first trip away from home ended in a 3-0 defeat at Swansea City but last
time out they secured a hard-fought point at Carrow Road against Norwich
City in a goalless game.
• Sam Alardyce is set to ring the changes after Tuesday night's Capital One
Cup home defeat to Wigan Athletic. There were a total of nine changes to the
Hammers side that had drawn 1-1 with Sunderland last Saturday for that game,
so it is expected that a large number of the Sunderland starting XI will be
recalled. Kevin Nolan, Momo Diame, Winston Reid and Jussi Jaaskelainen are
among those set to return.
• Two former West Ham United players could start tonight for QPR. Kieron
Dyer could be called into the starting XI in place of the injured Jose
Bosingwa, with Bobby Zamora set to lead the line after scoring for the Hoops
against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend. Former Hammer Anton Ferdinand is set
to miss the match with a hamstring injury, while Julio Cesar is expected to
start in goal ahead of Robert Green.
• QPR are yet to win a Barclays Premier League game this season, they were
beaten 5-0 on the opening day by Swansea City, but responded with a 1-1 draw
against Norwich City and a 3-0 win over Walsall in the Capital One Cup. A
3-1 defeat at Manchester City followed and despite an impressive 0-0 draw
with Chelsea, they returned to losing ways last weekend by falling to
Tottenham Hotspur 2-1.
• West Ham United's clash with QPR is the only Barclays Premier League
fixture taking place on Monday.

Last time out

Tuesday 25 September 2012
Capital One Cup
West Ham United 4-1 Wigan Athletic
West Ham United: Henderson, McCartney, Tomkins, Spence, Potts, Jarvis, Noble
(Taylor 72), O'Neil (Tombides 84), Maiga, Vaz Te (Fanimo 62), Hall.
Subs not used: Spiegel, Collins, Driver, McCallum.
Goals: Maiga 7.

Wednesday 26 September 2012
Capital One Cup
Queens Park Rangers 2-3 Reading
Queens Park Rangers: Julio Cesar, Hill, Onuoha, Park Ji-Sung, Granero, Dyer
(Nelsen 65), Faurlin (Diakite 87), M'bia, Cisse, Mackie, Hoilett.
Subs not used: Green, Derry, Wright-Phillips, Ehmer, Zamora.
Goals: Hoilett 14, Cisse 71.

Previous meetings

• West Ham United's last encounter with Queens Park Rangers ended in a 2-1
win in 2004. Harewood scored both of the Hammers' goals and the club went
onto clinch promotion to the Barclays Premier League via the Play-Offs that
same season.
• Harewood opened the scoring from the spot after Luke Chadwick was brought
down in the box by Danny Shittu and the Hammers had numerous other penalty
shouts waved away before the Hoops levelled after 72 minutes through Kevin
McLeod. Shortly after, Zamora was introduced and he would play a pivotal
role in Harewood's winning goal by taking a host of defenders out of the
equation with a neat step-over, allowing Harwood to power home with six
minutes remaining.
• The teams that day were:

West Ham United: Bywater, Mullins, Powell, Repka, Davenport, Fletcher,
Lomas, Chadwick (Zamora 75), Etherington, Hutchison (A Ferdinand 88),
Harewood

Queens Park Rangers: Day, Rose, Simek (Padula 87), Santos, Shittu, Bircham,
Cook (McLeod 62), Gallen, Thorpe (Ainsworth 29), Furlong, Cureton

Background

• West Ham United have faced Queens Park Rangers in 57 official matches and
they enjoy a slender lead in terms of victories having won 20 to the Hoops'
19. 18 have ended in a draw.
• West Ham United's biggest win over QPR came on 7 October 1950, Eric
Parsons scored a brace and Bill Robinson and Terry Woodgate also got on the
scoresheet in a 4-1 League Division Two win. The Hammers have, however, won
by a bigger margin in the First Southern Division, winning 4-0 in 1902.
• Queens Park Rangers' biggest win in the fixture came on 31 January 1978 in
an FA Cup meeting when they beat the Hammers 6-1 in a fourth round replay.
Bryan "Pop" Robson scored the Hammers' only goal of the game.
Last six meetings
(Premier League unless stated)

6 November 2004 - West Ham United 2-1 QPR (Championship)
16 October 2004 - QPR 1-0 West Ham United (Championship)
27 April 1996 - QPR 3-0 West Ham United
25 November 1995 - West Ham United 1-0 QPR
3 May 1995 - West Ham United 0-0 QPR
28 January 1995 - QPR 1-0 West Ham United (FA Cup)

Overall record v Queens Park Rangers (all competitions) W 20 D 18 L 19

Ten-year record

West Ham United
2011/12 Championship 3rd (86 points - promoted to Premier League via
Play-Offs)
2010/11 Premier League 20th (33 points - relegated to Championship)
2009/10 Premier League 17th (35 points)
2008/09 Premier League 9th (51 points)
2007/08 Premier League 10th (49 points)
2006/07 Premier League 15th (41 points)
2005/06 Premier League 9th (55 points)
2004/05 Championship 6th (73 points - promoted to Premier League via
Play-Offs)
2003/04 Division One 4th (74 points)
2002/03 Premier League 18th (42 points - relegated to Division One)

Queens Park Rangers
2011/12 Premier League 17th (37 points)
2010/11 Championship 1st (88 - promoted to Premier League)
2009/10 Championship 13th (57 points)
2008/09 Championship 11th ( 61 points)
2007/08 Championship 14th (58 points)
2006/07 Championship 18th (53 points)
2005/06 Championship 21st (50 points)
2004/05 Championship 11th (62 points)
2003/04 Division Two 2nd (83 points)
2002/03 Division Two 4th (83 points)

Referee
• Tonight's referee is Mark Clattenburg.
• His last West Ham United game was the stunning 4-0 win against Manchester
United in the League Cup back in November 2010.
• The 37-year-old was the man in the middle for the Championship Play-Off
semi-final first leg in May 2004 when Ipswich Town won 1-0 against the
visiting West Ham.
• Clattenburg has already refereed a number of notable matches in 2012,
including the Football League Cup final in February 2012 and the 2012
Olympics men's tournament final in August 2012.
• Clattenburg has been on the Select List since 2004, the same year he took
charge of the Division Three play-off final between Mansfield Town and
Huddersfield Town at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
• After becoming a FIFA official in 2006 at the age of 31, Clattenburg has
taken control of a number of international and UEFA Champions League
matches.

Team news

• Sam Allardyce is likely to make up to nine changes to his starting XI from
the Wigan Athletic match as the team reverts back to its more familiar
Premier League line-up. That means the likes of Jaaskelainen, Guy Demel,
Joey O'Brien, James Collins, Reid, Nolan, Diame, Matt Taylor, and Carlton
Cole could all come back in to start.
• Maiga could be pushing for his first start in the Premier League after
scoring his second goal in as many starts against Wigan. Fellow forward Andy
Carroll is expected to miss the game as he continues his recovery from a
hamstring strain.
• Yossi Benayoun could make his first start for West Ham United after
missing out on a place for the Capital One Cup tie against Wigan Athletic
after being granted leave by the club to mark the Jewish holy day of Yom
Kippur.
• Jack Collison will not play after missing the start of the season as he
continues to manage his long-term knee issues.
• QPR manager Mark Hughes has a number of defensive worries ahead of the
game, with up to four of his defenders missing. Anton Ferdinand, Jose
Bosingwa and Fabio all have hamstring problems, while Armand Traore has a
leg injury.
• There is better news in midfield though, with Adel Taarabt set to return
after recent hamstring strain
Old boys
• Anton Ferdinand, Bobby Zamora, Robert Green and Kieron Dyer could all face
their former club tonight if selected. Ferdinand made 138 appearances in
claret and blue before leaving to join Sunderland in 2008. Zamora also
departed in 2008 to go to Fulham after spending four years at the Boleyn
Ground, scoring 30 goals. Dyer also spent four years at the club before
moving to QPR in July 2011. Green played 241 games for the Hammers,
including the Play-Off final win against Blackpool in May, before departing
for QPR after his contract at West Ham ran out.

General Information
• Tickets for tonight's game are sold out.
• The weather forecast for the game is misty with maximum temperature of
13C.
• Queens Park Rangers will be producing a special 3D matchday programme for
the game, which costs just £3.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble's high hopes
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble sees no reason why West Ham United should not be aiming high this
season
30.09.2012

After playing a key role in a comfortable start to life back in the Barclays
Premier League, Mark Noble believes he has seen enough to cautiously raise
his hopes for the season. The West Ham United midfielder took part in an
engaging press conference with the national media on Saturday to round off
an action-packed week that saw him sign a new long-term contract and captain
a young side against Wigan Athletic on Tuesday. Before looking ahead to
Monday evening's fixture at Queens Park Rangers, he started by recapping how
much a new deal at his boyhood club means. "As I explained when I signed my
new contract earlier this week, I wanted it to be right for me and my
family," Noble said. "Everyone says it is a big decision to make and it was,
but I am enjoying my football and think I am probably playing the best
football I have done in a long time. "When myself and the club came to the
agreement and it all got ironed out, I was more than happy to sign. I love
it here and where I live with my family so it was a no- brainer in the end
for me to sign."

While survival must be the first objective of any newly-promoted team, Noble
believes that there is no reason why the reinforced West Ham United squad
cannot look to maintain their current top-ten position come May. Monday
night's game at Loftus Road will provide another chance for some of the
Hammers' high-profile summer recruits to catch the eye of manager Sam
Allardyce. "I was speaking to someone in pre-season and they were saying how
big a club we are. I know that and you only have to look at our fanbase. But
maybe there were questions before why we weren't as big as we should be.
"Now, if you look at who we have brought in this season - the likes of Andy
Carroll, Matt Jarvis and Momo Diame - on top of the good players we have
here already, then you can see the club is going in the right direction. "We
got promoted last year from the Championship and it is a tough league. Look
at the teams that have gone down and to get back up straight away is a
massive ask. We did that and now it is time for the club to go to the next
level. By bringing in the quality players we have, the Chairmen and the
gaffer are making that happen and long may it continue."

Canning Town-born Noble is thriving in the new holding role that Allardyce
moved him to last season, a decision that contributed to the No16 being
named Hammer of the Year and selected in the PFA Championship Team of the
Year by his peers. "I enjoy the position I play. I like getting on the ball
trying to help us play and also breaking up the opposing team's attack. I
have played under a few managers and a few different shapes and I enjoyed it
when I played further forward but I have converted back to a holding
midfielder, which allows me to tackle and get on the ball. "One of our
analysts here at the club told me that until recently, I had made the most
tackles in the Premier League this season. I just want to keep on making the
spoils, winning the ball for the team and you can see we are playing
exciting football so it is really enjoyable playing in this team. "I think
we have a good balance in the side - Nobby [Kevin Nolan] likes to get into
the box and scoring goals and I am there to sit back and let him go forward
and score those important goals. Momo [Diame] runs about everywhere and gets
involved, so it is a good mix."

Noble says he has been lucky to have been able to learn from some of the
best in his developing years at the club. "I played alongside Scott Parker
for a few seasons and then there has been Carlos [Tevez] Teddy [Sheringham]
and Bellars [Craig Bellamy]. Even though these players are not in my role,
you just learn from being around them. "You learn how to express yourself as
a player. I want to play my own game and as I said, am really enjoying my
football here."

While doing his best for his club is foremost in his mind, Noble is also
ambitious to add a senior England national team cap to his youth and
Under-21 caps, something his father, Mark Noble Senior, would certainly
embrace. "One hundred per cent yes. I am only still 25 and as you know,
there are often many late-comers in terms of age to the national side. I am
hoping if I can keep playing to the levels I am that it might happen sooner
rather later. "I know my dad also would be very happy - he travels all over
the country to watch me play and loves his football, so after making my mark
at West Ham, he would obviously love me to put on the England shirt in the
senior national side. "I feel as fit and strong as I have ever done, but I
am always looking to improve. I think both mentally and physically I am a
better player than I was two or three years ago and so hopefully that
call-up will come along. "Here at West Ham, I feel we have enough in us to
aim and finish as high as we can and go in the direction that club should be
and push on from there."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dylan's debut delight
WHUFC.com
Dylan Tombides will never forget his first-team debut for West Ham United
30.09.2012

Most West Ham United supporters will want to quickly forget about the
Capital One Cup third-round defeat by Wigan Athletic - but Dylan Tombides
will never forget it. The Australian forward was handed his first-team debut
as a late substitute against the Latics, 15 months after being diagnosed
with cancer. Showing incredible bravery and commitment and a typically
positive attitude, Tombides has contined to train while undergoing
treatment, impressing his coaches and team-mates alike with his infectious
enthusiasm and non-stop banter. A hugely-talented striker, Tombides has
caught the eye in training, appearing for the Development Squad in last
Friday's 4-1 win over Arsenal before being given a chance to impress at the
Boleyn Ground on Tuesday evening, after Sam Allardyce sent him on to the
pitch in front of 25,000 supporters "It was a definitely a big moment for
me," said the Perth-born teenager. "I was obviously very happy. It's what
every youngster wants - to make his debut for the first team. It was even
better to do it at Upton Park in front of thousands of fans. I was really
happy. "It's now about getting another cap, but it's one step at a time and
I was just happy with what happened on Tuesday night."

Tombides' appearance was made possible by the support network he has had
behind him over the past 15 months - most notably mum Tracyee, dad Jim,
brother Taylor and Academy physiotherapist Jon Urwin. Tracylee and Urwin
were at Tuesday's game, while Jim and Taylor sent their message of support
from Iran, where the Hammers youth-team midfielder is representing Austalia
at the AFC Under-16 Championship finals.

"Jon has been fantastic and has been there all the way through. He has been
with me at every oncology meeting I have had with doctors. He's been
absolutely fantastic. My Mum will support me no matter what I also have to
give a special mention to my Dad and brother, who have been there for me as
well. Due to Taylor's international commitments they are away in Iran and
I'd like to wish him good luck! "Taylor is an up-and-coming player. I like
him and, more importantly, Tony Carr likes him! He's a really hard worker
and does his bit for the team. That's what you look for in a player -
someone who looks out for the team rather than themselves."

At the club, Tombides has also received plenty of support from his
team-mates - most notably best pal George Moncur, who made his own
first-team debut in the Capital One Cup second-round win over Crewe
Alexandra. "I've enjoyed the laughs. Moncs is a top man and we get along
great and it's just good to be back having banter with everyone."

Having returned to training, the 18-year-old is also enjoying being part of
a Development Squad that currently sit top of Barclays U21 Premier League
Group 1. Having played alongside the likes of Rob Hall, Matthias Fanimo,
Blair Turgott and Moncur for the past few seasons, Tombides has not been
surprised by the strong start. "It's fantastic. Several youngsters were on
the pitch on Tuesday and several more were on the bench so they are always
nipping away at the manager hoping to be involved. They will get their
chances because they are all really good players."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR v West Ham
BBC.co.uk
KO 20:00
30 September 2012

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Loftus Road Date: Monday, 1 October Coverage details: Live on BBC
website, updates on Radio 5 live

TEAM NEWS

QPR are missing four defenders as Anton Ferdinand, Jose Bosingwa and Fabio
all have hamstring problems, while Armand Traore has a leg injury.
Adel Taarabt, however, could return after recent hamstring strain.

West Ham midfielder Gary O'Neil has recovered from a knee injury, and Yossi
Benayoun could make his first start since moving back to the club on loan.
Modibo Maiga could keep his place with on-loan Liverpool striker Andy
Carroll (hamstring) still unlikely to play.

MATCH PREVIEW

Though reports say that Sam Allardyce's medium-term future at West Ham is in
some doubt, with the manager expected to have to wait until his contract
expires at the end of the season before discussing a new deal, life at Upton
Park is relatively rosy.
The club bounced back immediately after being relegated to the Championship
and now sit pretty in the Premier League's mid-table - 10th coming into this
game - having made a decent start to their season.
But there's a pronounced contrast at the club which lies some way west of
the Hammers within the capital's endless sprawl.
Bottom-of-the-table QPR escaped relegation by the skin of their teeth last
season, and then spent a lot of money this summer to ensure that their team
is upwardly mobile. Clearly, it has not worked out like that so far - the
Hoops have two points from a possible 15 - but boss Mark Hughes insists they
must not panic, and that circumstances are mitigating.
"For the most part our performances have been fine up to a point," he said.
"Obviously we need to see games out. We have selection problems at the
moment in a key area of the field in defence.
"We have had too much of a turnover in terms of selection and personnel
changes so that doesn't lend well to having that continuity of performance.
We've created some decent football in the initial period, but it was always
going to take time.
"We're not going to hide behind the fact it is not the best of starts nor
the start we wanted.
"We understood that it could happen and that it would take us time to get
the team functioning as we wanted. The way I work and my staff work is we
don't get too high and we don't get too low.
"What we do every single day is make sure the team is prepared and we give
them the best chance to be successful. Over the long term that has been
proved in all the teams I have been involved with."
In short, Hughes is adamant his methods will put the struggling west
Londoners on the right path. Pressure - what pressure?
MATCH FACTS

Head-to-head
These two clubs have only met six times in the Premier League, with all
those matches between 1993 and 1996.
West Ham only won one of them, with the Hoops winning three times (they drew
twice).
In 57 matches between the two clubs across all competitions, the Hammers
have 20 victories to QPR's 19.
QPR
Have conceded 11 Premier League goals so far this season. Only Southampton
(15) have shipped more.
The Hoops have scored three Premier League goals so far this season. Only
Norwich (2) have fewer.
Bobby Zamora - QPR's only Premier League goalscorer this season - scored 18
goals in 79 league appearances for West Ham from 2005 to 2008. He has failed
to score in two league matches against them since leaving, losing on both
occasions.
West Ham
Have kept three clean-sheets in total this season - the same as Arsenal and
West Brom. Only Chelsea (4) have kept more.
The club have not won in their last eight Premier League away matches (since
a 3-1 victory at Blackpool in February 2011).
Kevin Nolan has scored three of the club's five Premier League goals this
season, netting in each of their home matches. He is already a quarter of
the way to his best Premier League scoring season of 12 goals (for Newcastle
in 2010/11).

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble admits arrival of Andy Carroll and Matt Jarvis convinced him to
stay at West Ham
Last Updated: September 30, 2012 2:25pm
SSN

Mark Noble has admitted the arrival of Andy Carroll and Matt Jarvis at West
Ham convinced him to sign a new contract with the club. Noble has been with
the Hammers since signing schoolboy terms more than 10 years ago but he
admits he was concerned about being able to achieve his goals at the club.
But the capture of winger Jarvis from Wolves for a club-record £10.75m and
the loan signing of Carroll from Liverpool has rejuvenated Noble's faith in
West Ham's ability to attract top talent. "I remember talking to someone
during pre-season and they were saying how big the club is," said Noble.
"Our (previous) record signing (Savio) was only £9m so you have a look at
stuff like that and think, 'Is that as big as it should be?' I always
questioned that. "But now we have signed Jarvis and brought in Andy Carroll
and top players. To survive in the Premier League that is what you need to
do. "It was time for the club to go to the next level and not be in limbo.
We've signed some top players and I think everyone is buzzing. "It's brought
a big lift to the club and it's a lot better training out there with
top-quality players." Before Carroll joined on transfer deadline day, Noble
was being linked with a move to Fulham.

No-brainer

"I don't know if I thought that I might be leaving," he said. "Sometimes,
with contract negotiations, there can be nit-picking stuff that you're not
quite happy with because it was a long-term deal. "If I'd been single and
living in a flat on my own, I don't think I would have thought twice about
it. "But I've got two young children and a wife so I needed to make sure it
wasn't just about me. "Thankfully, we came to an agreement because I love
living at home - I'm from around here and I love living in London so it was
a no-brainer in the end."

Noble was confident West Ham could aim for more than simply survival in the
Premier League as they look to cement further their status in the top half
of the table by beating QPR. The game had looked set to see Noble reunited
with a player who decided this summer he could not realise his ambitions at
Upton Park, Robert Green. But the goalkeeper's move to Rangers has arguably
backfired, with Julio Cesar having taken his place. Noble refused to put the
boot in, hailing Green's contribution to West Ham's promotion and insisting
the keeper would bounce back. He added: "Some people say the grass is never
greener on the other side. But you don't know, obviously, until you've been
on the other side."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Club's Summer Signings Convinced Noble to Sign a New Contract!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

It is interesting that Mark Noble has stated that it was the summer
acquisition of Matt Javis and Andy Carroll was an important factor in his
decision to sign a new Hammers contract. In an interview, Noble remarked
that he has had an 'up and down' time during his Hammers career and had
wondered about the basic ambition of the club. However, the club's transfer
policy since last season's promotion, particularly signing Jarvis and
Carroll, convinced him that the club are trying to push on to another level.
That, allied to the proposed move to the Olympic Stadium, has given Noble
the belief that new, exciting times lay ahead for the Hammers. Lets hope
that he is right. Goodness, our long suffering fans deserve better times and
a honour or two along the way!

Arguably, that improvement in our prospects will be founded on a strong
squad, with compeition in all 11 positions. It is significant that the
club's Assistant, Neil McDonald, has recently been reported as stating that
players will need to consistently perform to retain their places in the
first team. And those who are currently out of the team, will need to
impress in training, await their first team opportunity and then grab it
with both hands! That is exactly the way that it should be at a top PL club.
With keen competition for places driving up performance and consistency
levels across the board. It seems from Sam Allardyce's post-match comments,
after the Wigan defeat, that an unnamed player(s) had been unhappy with
being out of the team and felt that they should be playing. It is only right
that players feel that way and desire to play, but the prevalent ethos in
the squad must promote dedication and a determination to work hard in order
to make it happen, rather than festering discontent. But for that to work,
selection needs to be based solely on merit, with no automatic selections.

Finally, a word of belated congratulations for Dylan Tombides on making his
first team debut in the Wigan match. It is a real tribute to the bravery,
dedication and commitment of Dylan that he has fought the illness that
afflicted him, endured the treatments necessary to regain his health and is
now re-emerging back in the first team frame. Apparently, Dylan has
continued to train through his ongoing treatments and has been an example
and inspiration to all at the club, with his determination and good humour.
I sincerely hope that last Tuesdays appearance is the first in a long and
successful career with West Ham Utd FC.

Dylan Tombides certainly has the talent and it also appears that he
possesses the dedication, determination and sheer will pwer to make it
happen. And his example should be inspiration to the other youth prospects
at the club, who have not had to confront the health obstacles and
challenges experienced by the Australian youngster.

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
£10m Jarvis just can't buy a start
Published: 30th September 2012
The Sun

MATT JARVIS may be West Ham's record buy but No 2 Neil McDonald still
insists the winger must wait his chance. Jarvis, 26, joined from Wolves for
£10million in August yet has started only one Premier League match. McDonald
said: "Matt's biding his time. There's a lot of competition but he's
definitely ready to go back in. "Our gaffer Sam Allardyce has always had a
reputation that if you play well you stay in the team. "Whoever can't get
in, and it might be a record signing, they have to wait for their chance to
come. "And when it does come they've got to be ready."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fight for the right: West Ham record signing Jarvis told to earn starting
place
The Mirror
QPR v West Ham: It's been a miserable start to his Hammers career for the
£10million man from Wolves... PLUS Hoilett says QPR honeymoon OVER
Jamie McDonald

West Ham's club record signing Matt Jarvis has been told to fight hard to
win his place back. Jarvis has suffered a disappointing start to life in
east London following his £10.75million move from Wolves in the summer.Big
things were expected of the England winger, but he has only started one
league game and has yet to show his best form. Jarvis was left on the bench
for the last two games against Norwich and Sunderland. And with West Ham
only suffering one defeat, boss Sam Allardyce (right) has refused to change
his attacking line-up. Jarvis did make an impact when he came on as a
second-half substitute against Sunderland last week, but assistant boss Neil
McDonald insists his expensive price tag will not automatically warrant him
a place in the starting line-up. McDonald said: "Sam's always had a
reputation that if you play well, you stay in the team. Whoever can't get in
the team, and it might be a record signing, they have to wait for their
chance. "And when that chance does come along, they've got to be ready. "The
game he started at Swansea, we didn't play as well as we had done before.
The players that have come in have done really well against Fulham and
Norwich. "He's biding his time and when a new player comes in it gives them
a chance to sit back and look at everything and see how it works and enjoy
training without too much pressure. "He's definitely ready to go back in the
team if the manager picks him. There's competition for places in the team.
"What will he bring in the long term? He'll bring excellent retention of the
ball, he'll bring balls in the box to help people score goals and he's high
energy as well. Those three things are vital to any team."

West Ham's last away win in the Premier League came back in February 2011,
but McDonald is convinced they are a different proposition on their travels
and will be hoping to record all three points at Loftus Road. He said:
"We've only played a couple of away games this season. In the Championship
we had a formidable record last season and we've got to try to take that on.
"It's a lot more difficult when you come into the Premier League but we got
a good point at Norwich and we're looking forward to going to QPR to try and
get our first three points. "The London derbies are difficult but it's a
game we hope we can get something out of."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
JUNIOR HOILETT: I'M ALL PREPARED FOR WEST HAM
Daily Star
Junior Hoilett
1st October 2012 By Paul Brown

JUNIOR HOILETT claims struggling QPR will be ready for former mentor Sam
Allardyce's long-ball tactics today. The Rangers forward played under
Allardyce at Blackburn and knows all about the West Ham manager's style. But
he insists QPR will be ready after a dry-run last Wednesday against Reading,
who knocked Rangers out of the Capital One Cup at Loftus Road. Hoilett
(left), whose side have yet to win this season, said: "We've been unlucky.
But we'll shape up at the back. Monday will be the same kind of long balls
we faced against Reading. "Sam has a big target man up front too. We'll just
have to cope with that and work as a team to get around it. Sam taught me a
lot when I was at Blackburn. He's a great ­manager – but I'm looking forward
to getting a few points off him!"
Hoilett scored his first goal for the club since his free transfer from
Ewood Park in the 3-2 defeat to R­eading, but admits confidence is low. He
added: "That first win would take a lot of pressure off. There is pressure
on us." West Ham assistant Neil McDonald reckons winger Matt Jarvis is ready
to show why Allardyce paid a club record £10m to buy him from Wolves. The
25-year-old has only started one Premier League match but McDonald has
tipped Jarvis to make his mark. "Matt's biding his time," he said.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parkes primed for QPR return
WHUFC.com
Phil Parkes is looking forward to Monday's clash between his two former
clubs
01.10.2012

Monday's Barclays Premier League fixture between Queens Park Rangers and
West Ham United will bring a lot of memories flooding back for Phil Parkes.
The great Hammers goalkeeper spent nine seasons at Loftus Road before moving
to east London for a world-record £765,000 fee in 1979, helping the Super
Hoops to gain promotion from Division Two and finish as runners-up in
Division One in 1976 under the management of former West Ham forward Dave
Sexton.
Parkes played in arguably Rangers' greatest-ever side, lining up alongside
England captain Gerry Francis, mercurial midfielder Stan Bowles and Republic
of Ireland striker Don Givens, among others.
After moving across London, Parkes was voted Hammer of the Year and lifted
the FA Cup in 1980 before helping the Hammers to finish third in Division
One in 1986.
The stopper told West Ham TV he has hugely fond memories of his long spells
with both clubs.
WATCH PHIL PARKES' INTERVIEW IN FULL ON WEST HAM TV
"At QPR, we came second in Division Two in 1974 and got promoted and then we
really got it together and Dave Sexton started building a side that was
absolutely incredible to watch. We finished second in the league but were by
far the best team that year and should have won it.
"We lost out by one point to Liverpool who pipped us about 12 days after our
season had finished. It probably wouldn't happen now because everyone has to
play on the same final day.
"That was probably the highlight of my time there and then I came across to
West Ham. I was very happy at QPR and the transfer came out of the blue but
Mr Lyall came along and the rest is history.
"In 1976 we had Gerry Francis who was then the England captain. He was a
fantastic player, a really strong midfield player with incredible vision and
who could score goals as well. He was also a brilliant penalty taker.
"We had Stan Bowles as well who really was kind of the Lionel Messi of his
day because we couldn't quite believe what he could do. They always said, if
he could pass a betting shop like he could pass a ball he'd have been a very
wealthy man!"
Parkes came across his old club often following his record-breaking switch
to the Boleyn Ground, most notably when he flew in on Concorde for one
victory and another when he saved a penalty from old pal Francis.
"We played them on the old artificial pitch at Loftus Road and Frank
McAvennie had been away to play for Scotland in a 1986 World Cup qualifying
play-off and, unbeknown to the rest of the team because John Lyall told me
not to tell anybody, I had been away in Spain playing golf at a charity
event with [legendary golf commentator and former professional] Peter
Alliss!
"I flew in on the Friday night on Concorde and Frank flew in from Australia
and the next day we went to QPR and won one-nil with Frank scoring the goal,
so everything was OK when it could have all backfired!
"Also, when I got Hammer of the Year in 1981 we beat QPR 3-0 near the end of
the season and I saved a penalty from Gerry Francis, so that another
memorable moment."
Concentrating on Monday's fixture, Parkes has done some filming for Sky
Sports that will be broadcast in the run-up to the showdown between his two
former clubs.
When pressed about who he would like to prevail, the 62-year-old is not
willing to nail his colours to either club's mast. However, he does feel the
Hammers can take advantage of the fact that Mark Hughes has so many
newly-signed players in his squad.
"Sky Sports came to the Sunderland game to film me working in the lounges,
signing autographs and having photographs with people and to see what we do
here. I did some filming at QPR on Wednesday which was nice because I hadn't
been back there in quite a while.
"I am looking forward to the game but it's always a difficult one for me
because I had nine very good and happy years at QPR and then eleven years
here. It's always a fixture that is in my heart because these are two teams
which are very, very close to me and I have fond memories of both.
"I always wish for a draw and for it to be a really good game! It won't
upset anybody then and I can feel OK about it.
"I think QPR have got a very strong squad but the good thing about playing
them now is that it is going to take time for them to blend in because they
have basically got a new team there. It does take time to get to know one
another's games.
"You only have to take the goalkeeping situation. They started off with
Robert Green and now they have Julio Cesar in there so it's quite a
different team.
"I watched them against Tottenham on the TV and they were brilliant in the
first half but, as soon as Spurs got a goal, there was only one side that
was ever going to win it. They're going to take some time to gel together,
so we're playing them at a good time, I think.
"I think it will be a very tough game. I think we will do well, though, and
if we can come away with a point that will do us fine."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca on Monday
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald and West Ham United are chasing their first away win at Queens
Park Rangers on Monday
01.10.2012

Neil McDonald is expecting West Ham United to make a number of changes from
the team that suffered defeat against Wigan Athletic in the Capital One Cup
last week.
The likes of Jussi Jaaskelainen, Guy Demel, Winston Reid, James Collins,
Momo Diame, Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole all sat out the defeat and are
likely to be recalled as the Hammers target their 21st win against the Hoops
on Monday evening. A three-point return would also be West Ham United's
first away win of the season, with assistant manager McDonald stating his
belief that success simply rides on the side rediscovering their
record-breaking away form from the Championship last term.
"We've only played a couple of away games this season so far," said
McDonald. "In the Championship we had a formidable record last season and
we've got to try to take that on.
"It's a lot more difficult when you come into the Premier League but we got
a good point away from home at Norwich and we're looking forward to going to
QPR to try and get our first three points.
"The London derby games are difficult and there's local rivalry there. We'll
be looking forward to the game and it's something we hope we can get
something out of."
Monday's hosts have a number of injury concerns in defence with former
Hammer Anton Ferdinand among those doubtful for the fixture. Despite their
problems at the back, 'Macca' is expecting the match to be as tough as
anything West Ham United have faced in the Barclays Premier League so far.
"They've come out of the blocks strongly in the last two games and we have
to be ready for that. We have to be patient and then impose our own game on
them.
"They've made a few signings and it does take time to gel. You might be
playing a different formation or a different way. It takes time to get to
know everyone and how the system and the dynamics work between the team.
Hopefully it doesn't all come together for them on Monday night."
After registering more than five times as many shots on goal and 200 more
passes than Sunderland last weekend, McDonald may rightly feel that the
Hammers have a chance of leaving west London with a result. The impact of
Matt Jarvis from the bench in that game repeatedly had fans on their feet
and Big Sam and McDonald must now decide if the summer recruit will maintain
his place after starting against Wigan on Tuesday.
McDonald said: "Matt is biding his time and when a new player comes in it
gives them a chance to sit back and look at everything and see how it works
and enjoy training without too much pressure. He's definitely ready to go
back in the team if the manager picks him. There's competition for places in
the team.
"It's testament to everyone else that's in the team. Sam's always had a
reputation that if you play well you stay in the team. Whoever can't get in
the team, and it might be a record signing, they have to wait for their
chance to come along and when that chance does come along they've got to be
ready.
"Long-term I think he'll bring excellent retention of the ball, he'll bring
balls in the box to help people score goals and he's high energy as well.
Those three things are vital to any team."
Modibo Maiga did his claims for a starting spot no harm at all with another
goal on his second start for the club against the Latics. Macca is happy to
see that the Mali international is edging ever closer to his full Barclays
Premier League debut.
"I think that his chance will be coming. It takes time for the foreign
players when they come in to adjust, not just to the training but to the
pace of the Premier League. He's gradually got better and better as time's
gone on and now he's ready and waiting for his chance."
Although the QPR match may come too soon for Maiga's fellow forward and new
recruit Andy Carroll, McDonald has been impressed with his desire to get
back to full fitness. While talk of his return for the Arsenal game has led
to nearly every ticket for the game already selling out, McDonald and the
coaching staff are taking it day by day.
"We have to be very careful to make sure he's fit and that the injury is
gone altogether. It will be a big blow if he comes back too early and
injures himself as he's an important member of the squad. He will be a big
part of our goal of staying in the Premier League when he is fit.
"You saw when he first came in against Fulham that he gave the players and
the crowd a lift and we have to make sure that he is fit and well before we
put him back in."
The Wigan game was only the Hammers' second home defeat of the calendar year
and although exiting a cup is never a pleasant experience, McDonald believes
one of the few positives is that the Hammers can now focus on their league
form until the FA Cup campaign begins early next year.
"When you get beaten 4-1 you deserve a bit of criticism. If it had been in
the league it would have hurt that little bit more.
"It's in the League Cup, but our main priority is the league form. It is
disappointing and it's a little kick up the backside to the ones that have
been banging on the manager's door and didn't really perform as well as we
know they can."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Queens Park Rangers v West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st October 2012
By: Preview Percy

We next return to league action on Monday (1 October already!) against
Queen's Park Rangers at Rangers Stadium or, if you prefer, Loftus Road.
Kick-off is at 8 and it's on space telly should you not be one of the lucky
1,800 to have been granted tickets.

Our hosts currently lie bottom of the league with two points from their five
games so far. Having given the squad a close-season overhaul, they raised
eyebrows with an opening day 5-0 home defeat to Swansea. This was followed
up with a rather fortuitous 1-1 draw at Norwich (getting the right side of a
couple of poor refereeing decisions en route), a 3-1 reverse at Man City, a
2-1 defeat at Spurs, and a 0-0 draw at home to Chelsea. The latter match
was, of course, overshadowed by the handshake shenanigans over the sorry
excuse for a human being that is John Terry who is still complaining about
being hard done by to anyone that will listen despite getting a ban and fine
about a third of the size they ought to have been.

Their start to the season will be something of a disappointment to majority
shareholder – and one time Hammers' suitor – Tony Fernandes. The squad
received a radical overhaul as Mark Hughes had his first summer at the club.
Hughes took over from the sacked (tee hee) Neil Warnock, whose claim that he
is good enough to manage in the Premiership is now so obviously a lie that
the only people deluded enough to believe it are probably him and his wife.
And I bet Mrs Warnock would probably cough and change the subject were you
to raise the matter in conversation.

We're spoilt for choice for ex-Hammers. One of the first signings to arrive
in Shepherd's Bush this summer was Rob Green. Green was, understandably in
my opinion, somewhat dismayed a couple of years back to discover that the
new contract he had signed placed him well down the list of high earners at
the Boleyn. Especially when you consider the actual contributions made by
some of those ahead of him in that list. Having been refused a pay review it
appears that Green decided to see his contract out and move on.

I don't have a problem with that personally. In the couple of seasons that
passed while the contract ran down nobody could accuse Green of not pulling
his weight. Of course, where the player's judgement might be seen to be
lacking is in his choice of destination club on leaving the Boleyn. I
suppose it must have seemed like a good idea at the time, joining a club
with a rich owner willing to spend a few bob on the team. However, Green had
a bit of a 'mare on the opening day.

The subsequent signing of Brazilian 'keeper Julio Caesar had all the
appearance of a knee-jerk reaction, though it is possible that negotiations
for the signing of the then Inter custodian may have already been in
progress prior to the Swansea match. Either way, it is believed that Green
is less than impressed with the turn of events as they stand and I for one
wouldn't be surprised to see our former no.1 elsewhere this time next
season. As it is we are most likely to see him on the bench.

As mentioned, Anton Ferdinand is another ex-Hammer in the squad. On his day,
as we well know, he can be a useful defender. However, as we also well know,
he has, over the years, shown a propensity to a lack of concentration at key
moments. I may have related this tale before but Alan Pardew once paid us a
visit here at the Avram Grant Home For The Bewildered (of course, it was the
"Marco Boogers" home back then).

Talking about Ferdinand, Pardew made reference to the player's occasional
lapses and remarked that he'd sent him to see a Sports Psychologist to see
if something could be done. We enquired how the session had gone only to be
told: "he forgot to turn up". Whether or not he remembers to turn up for
this one may be irrelevant as he is listed as having a hamstring strain so
he is unlikely to be playing.

On the right side of midfield, they have someone called Kieron Dyer playing
for them. According to my record books he is listed as having spent a few
seasons with us but I'll be damned if I can remember him doing so, Seriously
though, if you believe in some form of reincarnation-based karma, he must
have been someone particularly evil in a previous life to have been so
unlucky with injury in this one. If their lives hadn't overlapped my money
would have been on Piers Morgan.

Another who made little impression in his time at the Boleyn was Academy
graduate Hogan Ephrahim. The midfielder/forward made one sub appearance for
us in the League Cup about seven years ago and spent much of his time out on
loan, including a spell at QPR for whom he signed in 2007. Since they
started spending money at Loftus Road, Ephrahim has seen himself pretty much
on the fringes of things and has had spells on loan at Leeds, Charlton &
Bristol City in recent years. If we see him about for this one it'll be on
the bench.

A player with slightly more significance for us is Bobby Zamora. Z-man you
will recall, scored the goal against Preston at Cardiff that saw us promoted
in 2005. He scored a number of important goals for us during his time as a
Hammer, a mazy run at Birmingham and that effort at Blackburn that, to the
uneducated eye, might have looked as if it had been inadvertently cleared
off the line by Carlos Tevez.

It also looked that way to the educated eye. And also to eyes with dark
glasses on. Looking the other way. In fact the only people who thought that
had crossed the line were Howard Webb and his assistant, a fact that eluded
Lord Griffiths and the deluded lying hypocrite that is Neil Warnock. Zamora
is, in my opinion, underrated as a striker. I'm not saying that he's a
world-beater but, in a world that sees fit to award multiple England caps to
Darren Bent, he probably has a right to feel a little hard done by. I know I
do.

Whilst we're on the subject, the transfer of Argentinian midfielder
Alejandro Faurlin exposed the authorities for the incompetent and corrupt
shambles that they really are. You will recall that in the Tevez affair we
fell foul of a rule that nobody knew existed . Having been punished to the
tune of over £5million plus having to pay for Sheffield United's own
incompetence the FA decided to clarify the rules relating to third-party
ownership of players so that everyone knew where they stood. So quite how
they came to the conclusion that a deliberate flouting of the re-written
rule that everyone was now aware of was only worth a fine of £875,000 one
can only speculate.

Tellingly, Colin, who not long previously had been firmly of the opinion
that such transgressions merited points deductions, went very quiet on the
subject lest it affect his chances of putting "Football League Championship
Winning Manager" on his CV. Although the signing of the player pre-dated
Warnock's arrival in West London he was quite happy to select and profit
from the availability of a player who by his own twisted logic, must have
contributed to their title win.

A familiar name on the QPR team sheet will be that of Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Although not actually an ex-Hammer he sort of feels like one to those of us
who have been using this site for any length of time. For those who are
relatively new to these parts, during a transfer window a few years ago
someone posted that the player was definitely at the place where we do our
medicals. He really was. Honest.

As far as we are aware he's still there and the "Shaun Wright-Phillips
medical" has become a running in-joke which resurfaces every so often –
usually when the window opens. For my part I believe that the medical centre
was short of supplies and that they're just waiting for the delivery of
those little wooden things they flatten your tongue with while they ask you
to say "aaaaah" so they can complete the medical. After all it would be
sheer folly for a professional club to sign a player without checking his
ability to say "aaaaah", wouldn't it.

And so to us. Well the League Cup match was disappointing but, in the grand
scheme of things it's not something I think anyone should lose a lot of
sleep over. That said I don't believe that Mr Allardyce didn't take the
competition seriously. We put out a side that, whilst light on
experience,still ought to have had enough to make a game of it – and for 20
minutes or so we did. Maiga's goal was all about the hard work done in
putting the opposition under pressure. For whatever reason we failed to keep
that up and a number of individuals did themselves no favours in terms of
first team contention. Still, move on and deal with more important matters.

We will, of course, see the return of a large number of nicely rested
players for this one. JJ will be back in goal and Collins & Reid will resume
their partnership in the defence. Benayoun will come back into contention
after his absence for religious reasons whilst Carlton's beleaguered knees
will also have been grateful for not having had to stay up late on Tuesday
night. Nolan will return whilst Maiga – who was not included in the
manager's list of "things to be critical of" in midweek – may be hoping for
a start this time round. Those sitting in the Shaun Wright-Phillips Memorial
Medical Centre at the moment are Andy Carroll – another week or so for him I
suspect, Jack Collison – who is still shepherding his knee through recovery-
and Gary O'Neil whose injury on Tuesday night doesn't seem to have been too
serious.

Prediction? Well their problem has been scoring goals this season. In the
league they've mustered but three – all of which have come courtesy of
Zamora. Whenever we've had problems this season they've largely been self
inflicted. If we can keep the silly errors out of the picture I reckon we
can get all three out of this one. I would go for a clean sheet but the "Law
Of The Ex" means that Zamora is likely to register, I'll therefore be
looking to place the Avram Grant Rest Home For The Bewildered John Terry
Appeal fighting fund (£2.50 donated by someone by the name of N Griffin) on
a 2-1 away win as the memory of the League Cup exit becomes merely a
footnote in the grand scheme of things.

Enjoy the game!


When last we met: Won 2-1 (h) A Harewood brace (1 pen) was enough to gain us
revenge against a Rangers side that had kicked lumps off us in sneaking a
1-0 win on their own patch.

Referee: Mark Clattenburg. A poor ref whose debts in his personal life led
to dismissal by PGMO. Note that it was his personal life rather than his
inconsistent performances that got him the chop – against which he
successfully appealed. Last seen by us officiating in the 4-0 victory in the
snow over Man Utd in the League Cup, which just goes to show what a good
performance that really was.

Danger Man: Bobby Zamora. The scorer of all their goals so far this season
and an ex-Hammer to boot. Shaun Wright-Phillips als has a habit of turning
it on against us.

Daft Fact Of The Week: QPR have had nearly 20 grounds in their history –
including a couple of spells at the now sadly gone White City stadium. They
have plans to relocate again over the next few years. One of the proposals
being speculated on is a move to the site currently occupied by the BBC TV
centre up the road, which is earmarked for redevelopment in a few years'
time once everyone's been moved on from there. The fact that the BBC site is
300 yards closer to Leyton has been noted by Barry Hearn, who is already
licking his lips in anticipation at the prospect of lining his pockets, er,
I mean compensation.


Stat man John: Northcutt's corner

Head to Head
Pld 57; West Ham Utd 20, QPR 19, Draws 18.

Biggest Win
7th October 1950: West Ham Utd 4-1 QPR (Boleyn Ground, Division One)

Heaviest Defeat
1st January 1978: QPR 6-1 West Ham Utd (Loftus Road, FA Cup)

First Meeting
16th January 1909: QPR 0-0 West Ham Utd (Park Royal Ground, FA Cup)

Friendlies
November 1953: QPR 2-4 West Ham Utd (Parker, Sexton 2, Dick)
August 1971: QPR 2-0 West Ham Utd

They Played For Both
Kieron Dyer; Nigel Quashie; Anton Ferdinand; Danny Gabbidon; Bobby Zamora;
Phil Parkes; Bert Hawkins; Frank Neary; Clive Allen; Martin Allen; Paul
Goddard; Andy Impey; Tim Breacker; Ludek Miklosko; Trevor Sinclair; Dave
Mangnall; Leroy Rosenior; Robert Green; Hogan Ephraim; Iain Dowie; Bill
Nelson; George Petchey; Keith Rowland; Les Ferdinand; Jack Young; Steve
Lomas.

Early baths
1994-95: Martin Allen (h)

Bossing It
Former Hammer Dave Sexton was the QPR manager between 1974 and 1977 - whilst
former manager Glen Roeder was the QPR captain in 1978.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR v West Ham preview
Injury problems remain for Hughes; Benayoun could make first start
Last Updated: October 1, 2012 1:08pm
SSN

Bottom-of-the-table Queens Park Rangers will search for their first Premier
League win of the season in their London derby against West Ham United on
Monday night.

Mark Hughes is coming under scrutiny after a host of summer recruits have so
far not transformed into instant success and have only collected two points.

QPR were also knocked out of the Capital One Cup last week by Reading and,
while a number of injuries have been a factor, there is a disappointment at
Loftus Road.

Sam Allardyce's West Ham will therefore make the short journey in London
hoping to take advantage of their capital neighbours' poor start to the
season.

And the Hammers look set to be boosted by the speedy return of England
striker Andy Carroll from a hamstring injury.

Carroll has been missing for almost a month after limping out of his debut
against Fulham and it was thought the Loftus Road clash would come too soon
for his return.

But Allardyce revealed on Monday afternoon that he expected the on-loan
Liverpool striker to play, with the Hammers eager for some added firepower.

Last season's Championship play-off winners have lost just once in their
five matches back in the Premier League but they have drawn their past two
games.

West Ham, who were themselves dumped out of the League Cup after being
defeated by Wigan Athletic, have also failed to score in five of their last
six visits to Loftus Road and QPR have won six and lost none of the last
eight home games against the Hammers.

Allardyce also has a terrible record against Hughes having won just two of
11 meetings, although this will be their first where one or other has not
been Blackburn Rovers boss.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive - Allardyce confirms Carroll fit to face QPR
By talkSPORT | Monday, October 1, 2012

Sam Allardyce has confirmed to talkSPORT that Andy Carroll will make his
West Ham return against QPR tonight.

The striker, on loan from Liverpool, suffered a hamstring injury on his
Hammers debut against Fulham at the start of September.
Carroll had been expected to be sidelined for around six weeks but the
23-year-old has made a speedy recovery and is set to start the London derby
at Loftus Road.
"He's going to be back tonight," said Allardyce, speaking to Keys & Gray.


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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 30th September 2012

Macca on: Queens Park Rangers
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald looks ahead to Monday night's Barclays Premier League fixture at Queens Park Rangers
29.09.2012

West Ham United assistant manager Neil McDonald was in high spirits as he looked ahead to Monday night's trip to Queens Park Rangers. The Hammers are looking to secure their first away win of the season at Loftus Road before welcoming Arsenal to the Boleyn Ground next weekend. McDonald confirmed that West Ham United will be wearing black armbands on Monday in memory of the late John Bond, who sadly passed away this week, ahead of a further tribute to the Hammers legend at the Boleyn Ground next Saturday.

Macca could you give us any team news ahead of the trip to Loftus Road?

NM: "We have got everybody fit who we thought would be fit for the game against QPR. We still have a couple of players out but they are getting closer and closer to a return. We have everybody available who we had last week.

Andy Carroll has been touted for a possible return against Arsenal, is there any more news on his return?

NM: "He has been progressing really well but unfortunately the game on Monday night has come a little too early for him. He needs to get a full week's training behind him to make sure he is fit and well so at the moment the target is Arsenal."

John Bond sadly passed away last week, will the players be wearing black armbands against QPR?

NM: "Yes they will. John Bond was a massive part of this football club representing it over 400 times. It is a tragic loss that he has passed away and it is right the club will be wearing black armbands on Monday. I am also sure we will also be doing something special at the Boleyn Ground against Arsenal."

Is that something you feel the supporters will really appreciate?

NM: "Of course, the supporters really like people who show loyalty and give their all for the football club and John certainly did that."

Do you feel that there was a slight over-reaction after the 4-1 loss to Wigan Athletic in the Capital One Cup?

NM: "I think it is always disappointing when you lose 4-1 at home. We made a lot of changes to the team and expected the players who came in to step up to the plate. Unfortunately some of them let themselves down because of the way it ended. We are in very good spirits in the league and we are really looking forward to the next game. The atmosphere within the club is still very buoyant."

You expressed your disappointment but ultimately the club will be judged on its showing in the Barclays Premier League?

NM: "Yes you are right, it is vitally important that we stay in the league and we need to try and pick up as many points as we can to reach that magic 40-point mark as soon as possible."

You must be pleased that Mark Noble has put pen to paper on a new long-term deal?

NM: "It is very important, he is a big part of this football club and he has been playing really well, just like he did last season helping us to get promoted from the Championship. He has got his just rewards with a new contract so well done Mark."

What are you expecting from QPR, they played very well against Tottenham but still lost and then, like West Ham, suffered defeat in the Capital One Cup?

NM: "They have got some very good players, I attended the game against Spurs where they played really well and probably deserved something from the game and I also watched them against Reading on Wednesday. They are conceding goals at the moment and that is a weakness we need to expose as much as we can. It will be a difficult game, however, they will be very well organised playing in a system that suits the players they have available."

QPR invested heavily in the summer, bringing in some top quality players. Why do you feel it can take so much time for players to gel and come together?

NM: "There are a lot of reasons, new ideas from a new manager, playing in a new system and ultimately just getting to know everybody around them in new surroundings."

It has been a very good start to your league campaign, have your aims changed at all since the start of the season?

NM: "We set a target for the entire season but we try and break that down into small goals such as the first eight games. We have eight points so far and we are very happy with that but hopefully we can get a few more ahead of a difficult run of games."

Yossi Benayoun missed the Capital One Cup game, how is he and will he feature against QPR on Monday?

NM: "Yossi is fine; as we explained during the week he couldn't play against Wigan due to the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. He has been training very well trying to put pressure of the players who have been starting; he will definitely be in the squad for Monday."

QPR are yet to win a game in the Barclays Premier League, does that make them a more dangerous opponent?

NM: "I think it does, losing their last game at home to Reading will have hurt and they will come out against us all guns blazing. We need to be ready for the first 15-20 minutes. As I mentioned I went to watch their two previous games and they started both very well. We need to ensure we are solid and organised then push our game onto them as the game develops."

QPR struggled with the physicality of the Reading frontline and they also have a lot of injuries, is that something you will be looking to exploit?

NM: "They have got a few injuries especially in the defensive areas but we know what sort of team they are and how they play. We need to exploit the weaknesses we have found and if that means playing hard against the back four then that is exactly what we will do."

A few former West Ham United players now play for QPR but are you surprised to not be coming up against Rob Green?

NM: "Yes of course, Julio Cesar is a very good goalkeeper and even though he has let in a few goals against Reading and Spurs he has also made some very good saves. It is disappointing for Rob of course but he will continue to work hard and fight for his place in the team."

As someone who has worked with Rob Green day in day out, just how good a goalkeeper is he?

NM: "He is very good, he played a big part in getting us promoted last year before his contract expired and he moved on to pastures new. It hasn't worked out for him so far but as all players who aren't in the team, he needs to keep working hard and wait for his chance. I wish him all the best."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is a New Deal for Sam Allardyce on Hold Until the End of the Season?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

Sam Allardyce signed a two year contract when he joined the club and it expires in the summer of 2013. There are reports that negotiations on a new deal are currently on hold this season, until it is confirmed that the club have retained their PL status. Allardyce is believed to earn around £2 million-a-year and also received a significant bonus for clinching promotion last summer. He is allegedly due another six-figure bonus payment should West Ham avoid relegation. It is rumoured that should he be offered a new contract next summer it will be on roughly similiar terms, with an heavily incentivized element, based on finishing PL position, cup runs, etc. The West Ham board will allegedy seek to justify this by pointing to the need for financial restraint as the club continues to tackle the legacy of debt inherited from the previous ownership regime.

There have been 'chinese whispers' that the board could dispense with the current manager's services this summer and turn to a manager who favours a more expansive, passing style of play. Those whispers have even pointed to Harry Redknapp's current availability and suggested that if the club struggles in the PL there might be a move to bring him in as a replacement. Personally, I think that this is all clearly conjecture and a case of some people making 2 + 2 = 5! More specifically, for the anti-Allardyce brigade amongst our support, it is probably more a case of wishful thinking!

The probability is that Allardyce will keep the club in the PL this season. The club are merely keeping their options open until our fate is confirmed, especially after being stung financially by the financial settlements following the sackings of Zola and Grant. At Birmingham City, Sullivan and Gold were not particularly known for sacking their managers and if Sam Allardyce does well this season, he is likely to earn a new contract. Especially when one considers the good relationship that Allardyce appears to have with the co-owners.

Elsewhere, Paulo Di Canio's managerial career at Swindon Town continues to progress well. Following on from last season's promotion, his Swindon side is doing well in League 1 and have had notable success in the League Cup, with a forthcoming high profile home cup-tie with Aston Villa. His team is disciplined, defensively solid and, as you would expect, plays some good football. Paulo seems to have the potential to develop in to a top manager. But is he a future Hammers manager in the making?

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mark Noble of West Ham & England?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

Mark Noble has been in impressive form in West Ham's midfield this season. Having now signed a new five year contract (three years with an option for a further two), Noble has now set his sights firmly on an England call-up. The former England U-21 captain has been reported as stating:

'The form that I've been in lately, I'm still hoping to get into the squad. If I carry on playing the way I am, hopefully it'll happen sooner rather than later. That's my aim. I'm still only 25. There's a lot of late additions to the England squad. The football I'm playing at the minute, I'm hoping that I can carry on improving, because mentally and physically I'm two or three times better a player than I was two, three years ago. Hopefully, that can get me that call-up.'

Arguably, Mark Noble is maturing in to one of the best holding midfielders in the PL, with impressive tackling and work rate, allied to the crucial ability to distribute the ball accurately. Rumour has it that his quality performances, and associated Prozone statistics, have caught the attention of the England Manager, Roy Hodgson. Some of us have been predicting for a number of years that Mark Noble has the ability to play for England. Now he looks to be firmly in the frame for an England call up for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Mark Noble of West Ham & England? Lets hope so, he fully deserves his chance on the international stage!

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Have Spurs and Reading Shown the Way?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die

We face QPR in a SKY televised encounter at Loftus Road on Monday evening. Apparently, the two clubs have not faced each other in a league match since 2004! It does not seem that long, but as I stated recently, to my recollection we have enjoyed precious few victories at their place over recent decades. Still, the odds dictate that ithis has to change some time and why not on Monday? Viewing the two possible line ups, West Ham are virtually at full strength, except for Collison and maybe Carroll, even O'Neill is likely to be fit for the clash. However, it is a different story for the Rs, where they appear to be severely depleted in defence.

In attacking terms, they are virtually at full strength and can call upon mobile and pacy forwards such as Hollett, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Mackie, Zamora, Cisse and Taarabt, who will potentially test our defence, particularly the full-backs. It will certainly be a test of Demel's good form so far this season, while it poses the question whether Allardyce continue with Joey O'Brien as an auxillary left-back? Personally, I would prefer to go with Taylor and play Jarvis ahead of him on the left flank. Similarly, in central defence I would like to see Tomkins renewing his partnership with Reid, with Collins on the bench. Mainly because those two will probably deal much better with the mobility of QPR's central strikers Zamora and Cisse.

If Allardyce is true to form, he will likely set up to play a counter-attacking game. But should we do that on this occasion? Both Spurs and Reading have shown us recently the way to beat QPR at home, grasp the initiative, force them on the back foot and punish their defensive weaknesses. Weaknesses that have arguably worsened with their current injury crisis. We will no doubt play a high, pressing game and try to force their patched up defence in to errors, an approach we executed so successfully against wigan for approximately 7 minutes, until we scored and then the 'wheels fell off' so spectacularly. In Noble and Diame we have the players to win the midfield battle and get the ball wide for testing balls to be delivered in to the penalty box. The QPR No. 2, Mark Bowen, has admited that QPR have suffered serious defensive lapses, in recent matches, particularly in defending crosses/set peices and responding to the second phase ball. So, it would seem that West Ham are very well equipped to exploit these QPR failings.

A lot will depend on whether Andy Carroll is fit to play or Charlton Cole continues up front? Alternatively, we could even see Cole on the bench, with Maiga continuing at the apex of our attack and Nolan playing in an advanced midfield role, almost as a 2nd striker? If we go with either Cole or Maiga up top, it surely requires more balls played in to feet? Because, of course, as we know neither striker has the outstanding ability in the air that Carroll possesses. Nolan could be crucial, snaping up chances in the final third and it will be interesting to see how QPR set up to try and neutralise his threat? Perhaps they will designate one of their midfielders to track his runs/movement in the penalty box? The risk, of course, inherent in that is that it opens up space for the other Hammers players to exploit.

Another interesting question is whether Allardyce will continue with Vaz Te on the right side of the front three or brings in the creative skill, vision and passing ability of Yossi Benayoun? Personally, I think that Benayoun would scare the life out of the Rs defenders.The 'down side' is that he is less likely to track back and provide cover for Demel, if needed. That is the 'opportunity cost' of the selection. But I tend to think that this is an away game where we should take a calculated risk and adopt a more offensive approach. Whoever is selected to play on the left and right of the front three, it is crucial that Cole or Maiga get the necessary support and do not become detached/isolated up top. This all, of course, presupposes that Allardyce will stick with his favoured 4-3-3 formation, rather than go for a 4-4-2 or a 4-5-1. For instance, if QPR seek to play 5 in the middle to protect their patched up defence then we might be forced to do likewise or face being overun in midfield.

Finally, rumour has it Keiron Dyer is fit to play. So, we could face our former player on Monday evening, maybe in an auxillary right-back role. Dyer has recently admitted to the frustration of his time at West Ham, with his endless injury absences. Although one has to say that his record at QPR last season was hardly any better! Indeed, many people wondered why QPR agreed to extend his contract this summer. The answer is probably the same reason why we were so patient with Dyer over a number of seasons. He is undoubtedly a exceptionally talented player and there is always the temptation to focus on the contribution he could make if he gets and stays fit. Unfortunately, it never worked out that way for us. Will QPR have any better luck in that respect?

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MATT TAYLOR HAILS HONEST SAM ALLARDYCE
Daily Star
30th September 2012 By Harry Pratt

MATT TAYLOR has hailed honest Sam Allardyce as the perfect manager. Whether it is a kick up the backside, a pat on the back or just an arm around the shoulder, the no-nonsense West Ham chief always gives it to his players straight. And Taylor, a £2.5million buy from Bolton in July 2011, would not have it any other way as he insists Allardyce's genuine, fair approach is one of the key factors behind his successful stint at Upton Park. The Hammers midfielder, 30, said: "Sam is very easy to work with because you always know where you stand with him. "For me, personally, the one thing you are after is truth and transparency – and that's what you get with this manager. "If he's not happy, he tells you he's not. If he's happy, he tells you he is. For me, you can't ask for any better or any more than that."

Despite reservations from the hard-to-please Hammers faithful when he was appointed 16 months ago, Allardyce has slowly but surely won over the snipers and doubters. Promotion back into the big-time in May, via the play-offs, followed by a decent return of eight points from their first five Premier League games, means there is a growing optimism about the place ahead of their home clash against struggling Queens Park Rangers tomorrow. The only snag, according to Taylor, is that West Ham have yet to play any of the elite this season – though the visit of Arsenal this coming Saturday will rectify that situation The ex-Portsmouth and Luton winger added: "We've done relatively well considering we are a newly-promoted team. If you'd offered us this sort of start, we'd have taken it. "But we've had a so-called easy run of fixtures. We haven't played any of the big six. So while we've done all right, we're a long way from the end of the season still and nobody is getting carried away. At the beginning of the season, you are looking to make sure you retain your Premier League status. "Judging by the last two or three seasons, you don't need that magic forty points to stay up any more. "But if that's the main objective, there is also a feeling in-house that we could do better than that."

That belief they can survive and thrive was further fuelled by the arrival of Liverpool striker Andy Carroll on loan. For while the England striker has missed the last four games with a groin strain, Taylor said: "Hopefully, we will get to play a lot more with him because he's going to be an exceptional player for us."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'Pretty football' is history at Sam Allardyce's West Ham academy
Never mind Moore or Brooking, it's best not to get 'too bogged down' with tradition, says West Ham's manager
Anna Kessel
The Observer, Sunday 30 September 2012

"Smile or grim?" asks Sam Allardyce as he poses for a photograph next to the West Ham dugout. The words are fitting for a manager who has been around for 20 years and seen it all, a man who has survived heart scares, sackings and allegations of bungs, a football figure portrayed as both forward thinking and regressive – hailed for introducing everything from Tai Chi to equine ice therapy at Bolton, while simultaneously pilloried for playing the most route one football around. And winning.

Now here he is at West Ham, the Academy of Football. The irony is not lost on him. At his first press conference for the club, he says, it took around 24 seconds before someone asked how the "long ball" game would go down with the Boleyn Ground faithful. Big Sam, the caricature, may grin but Allardyce, the man, is more sensitive. As he talks about his life he raises many sore points – how it feels to be made redundant, the vulnerability of a football manager, the depression of sitting around at home being unemployed, the transient world of football where the media love you one day and cane you the next, where you never know who you can trust.

Although he would not describe it that way, Allardyce's reign at West Ham has been portrayed as unpopular with some fans. Despite having won promotion back to the Premier League in his first season in charge, there have been persistent boos from sections of the crowd. Just last week in the League Cup his team were jeered after a 4-1 defeat to Wigan. What does he make of it?

"Well I don't think the fans did give me a hard time [over the year], apart from certain pockets of fans on certain occasions," he says, shifting in his seat. "Occasionally there were fans who were upset and disgruntled but a lot less than Avram [Grant]. Avram got far more stick than I did. And Alan Curbishley got a lot of stick when he was here, and he was one of their own. I get no more stick than Gianfranco Zola, and Avram Grant, Harry Redknapp. I know because I spoke to all them. I didn't speak to Avram actually, because I couldn't get hold of him, but, yeah, if you don't do it right here you get stick, I accept that. But you get stick everywhere. That's the nature of the industry now … Contrary to what any media say, fans at West Ham are interested in the passion of the player and the commitment of the player, rather than all that pretty football stuff."

Historically, of course, Upton Park has prized "pretty" football. Allardyce, though, says history is overrated. Walking through the tunnel he points to a spot of redecorating. "Do you like the new wallpaper?" he asks. "I chose it myself." Where once the walls were covered in old photographs of West Ham greats, intended to inspire the players as they wait to file out on to the pitch, now there are pictures of West Ham's Championship play-off final victory in May. Some clubs, he says, get too "bogged down" in history. He makes a disapproving face. How many of today's West Ham fans actually watched Trevor Brooking or Bobby Moore play, he wonders. "It's the modern day history that's important, I like to think." As he emerges from the tunnel, flanked by the stands dedicated to Brooking and Moore, his words jar with his surroundings.

Whatever the supporters think, as a personality the 57-year-old Allardyce is a popular figure. Those around the club say he is well liked, and it is impossible not to warm to him as he describes life with Mrs Allardyce in the jet-set surroundings of their rented Canary Wharf apartment. "We've never lived in a city before," he says, making it sound like some charming middle-aged adventure. Certainly half an hour in his company is entertaining as he reminisces about his playing days, eating fillet steak and toast for a pre-match meal – "running around with a lump of meat in your stomach during the match" – in the bad old days when it was believed that drinking water during a training session would bring on cramp. Back then all drinks, other than tea, were strictly banned. "It's a wonder some of us didn't die," says Allardyce.

As he talks about the science of rehydration or the role of sports psychology in the game, you cannot help but try to imagine the young Allardyce as he embarked on his first managerial appointment at Limerick more than two decades ago. He leans back in his chair and smiles, pityingly, at his old self. "You have all these ideas in your head, all these super plans of what you're going to do and how you're going to take the managing world by storm." He gazes out over the pitch. "You take as much advice as you can, particularly off the older, more experienced managers and they all tell you. You sit in that job and you have all these ideas and you speak to Jim Smith or Harry Bassett or Howard Wilkinson or Alex Ferguson and they say: 'Well, son, your job is to survive.' You say: 'What do you mean?' They say: 'Well, you've got to survive in that job. If you don't you might never get another one.'

"It shocks you, obviously. You want to do all this and that but the reality is start winning football matches and you start getting credibility as a manager. The LMA [League Managers Association] brought some stats out, they said if you lose your first job, 80% of the time you never get another one."

Being sacked by Newcastle and then Blackburn hit Allardyce hard, he says. The dismissals knocked his confidence as he sat around at home for a torrid 11 months waiting – hoping – for another job offer. "We all sit and wait and hope," he says. "Cynically we have to wait until someone else loses a job before you can get back in the game."

When the call came from West Ham, did he think: thank God? "Yeah, I did," he says. "If I didn't get another job in the game after what happened at Blackburn I wouldn't have been satisfied. You know people would have said, 'What's happened to Sam Allardyce? Oh well, since he got sacked at Blackburn he hasn't done anything.' I thought I can't let it finish there, I've got to wait for the right opportunity again. You always have to continue to prove yourself as a manager. Wherever you go, no matter how good it was wherever it was you were at before, it's always the next job. You get into this famous, fabulous football club and you have to reinvent it by using your skills and ability."

Two weeks into the role, however, and Allardyce wondered what he had gotten into. "I thought, have I done the right thing? It was not very nice, you know. Trudging through all this negativity. Not just from outside but from within the club. All this doom and gloom. Job losses … Every day there were problems."

Allardyce describes the process of mopping up a relegation mess: being faced with an exodus of players all desperate to leave – the club lost 40 players in 12 months – battling the endemic "feeling sorry for yourself" culture, losing club staff who had been there for donkey's years, and the do-or-die importance of bringing in "people you can trust". The latter is interesting particularly in light of what happened at Blackburn with Allardyce's former assistant, Steve Kean. "You have to have someone you can trust when you join a new football club," he says, "because football is the enigma of gossip. It goes around everywhere. You've got to find out about people and you don't know whether you can trust them or not."

Key to building that circle of trust has been bringing an influential player into the dressing room in the former Bolton and Newcastle midfielder, Kevin Nolan, as captain. "Kevin. He changed the dressing room. He can galvanise a group of players, which is a massive responsibility taken away from me because you don't know what's going on in the dressing room, you've got no idea. Not that he comes telling tales to me, but you know he's going to promote the fact that he's not come down here to mess about: 'I ain't left Newcastle United to come down here and mess about at West Ham. I've come down here to get back up'."

The attitude suits Allardyce. The Dudley-born former defender also wants to be businesslike, shake off the interminable "long ball" jibes, and just get on with the job of managing West Ham. This season that job involves staying up, and the immediate aim of securing points against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road on Monday night, but beyond that he is hoping for an extension to his two-year contract, a reason to make the London life his own. "I'd love to see the fans into the Olympic Stadium," he says of the proposed 2014 move, "and I'd like to walk them out there."

Sam Allardyce was speaking on behalf of Barclays Ticket Office. Every 90 minutes throughout the season Barclays is offering fans the chance to win tickets to Barclays Premier League matches at a Barclays ATM and requesting a receipt, or by visiting barclaysticketoffice.com

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nelsen eyeing West Ham win to kick-start QPR's season
The former Tottenham and Blackburn defender has given his backing to manager Mark Hughes, and is confident the Rs will get back to winning ways in the Premier League
Goal.com
29 Sep 2012 23:23:00
By Sion Cleaver

QPR defender Ryan Nelsen believes a victory in Monday evening's clash with West Ham could kick-start the west London outfit's season. Mark Hughes' men have failed to pick up a Premier League win so far this campaign despite a complete overhaul at the club this summer which saw 11 new players arrive at Loftus Road. Yet Nelsen is confident an improvement in form is just around a corner, starting with the visit of Sam Allardyce's men. "With the characters we have in the dressing room," he told the Daily Mail. "It is only a matter of time [before a victory] and when one happens it will be like a monsoon after that.
"We are giving everything, the management are giving everything and the players are giving everything. We just need that win to get the monkey off the back."

Nelsen moved across London from nearby Tottenham in the summer on a free transfer to QPR, and the 34-year-old has given his backing to manager Hughes' style of play, despite the Hoops' difficult start to the season. "The manager has a way he wants to play and it's been proven for many years that it's a very successful one." he continued. "It just takes time for players to come in to it and kind of get into the mould of how he wants us to play. That's life. "Nothing comes easy. You just have to keep going and do the right things as we have been doing. You are going to have your ups and downs in a season. "Obviously the Reading game was a big disappointment but that happens. It's pretty ruthless in the cup competitions and the league."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble raises his sights for England role after settling West Ham future
By MALCOLM BROWN
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 29 September 2012 | UPDATED: 22:30, 29 September 2012
Daily Mail

West Ham midfielder Mark Noble is determined to make it a dream week and force his way into the England squad being announced for the World Cup matches against San Marino and Poland after signing a new long-term club deal. Noble, 25, has been outstanding for West Ham so far and has emerged as one of the best holding midfielders in the top flight. He has been locked in contract talks with the club throughout the summer but has now put pen to paper on a new three-year deal. Prozone statistics recently showed Noble had made the most tackles in the Premier League and he is catching the eye of the England backroom staff.

Noble represented England at Under-21 level but he is now ready to make a breakthrough into the senior squad for the World Cup qualifiers next month.
Noble said: 'The form that I've been in lately, I'm still hoping to get into that squad. If I carry on playing the way I am, hopefully it'll happen sooner rather than later. 'That's my aim. I'm still only 25. There's a lot of late additions to the England squad. The football I'm playing at the minute, I'm hoping that I can carry on improving, because mentally and physically I'm two or three times better a player than I was two, three years ago. Hopefully, that can get me that call-up.'

West Ham are hoping to maintain their impressive start to life back in the top flight when they face QPR on Monday night and Noble can see big things happening for the east London club over the next few years. A decision is due to be made next month over whether West Ham are still in the running to make a move to the Olympic Stadium - something Noble would love to see happen. 'I know everyone loves Upton Park but for the club to push on and grow I think it's important that we do make that step and make it our home,' he said.

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 29th September 2012

Dev Squad march on
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad continue to top the Barclays Under-21 Premier League
after beating Norwich City 2-0
28.09.2012

The Development Squad continued their hot streak with a 2-0 win against
Norwich City in Friday night courtesy of a looping header from Rob Hall and
a low drive from Pelly Ruddock. Prior to kick-off at Rush Green the Canaries
were level on points at the top of the league with both the Hammers and
Arsenal, who themselves had succumbed to defeat at Rush Green just one week
ago. The away side settled the quicker of the two but it didn't take long
for Ian Hendon's side to find their rhythm and with eight minutes played
they should have taken the lead. Hall charged down the left on the counter,
before leaving three Norwich players in his wake and crossing to the
arriving Paul McCallum, who failed to hit the target from five yards. Just
two minutes later Hall showed McCallum how it is done. Matthias Fanimo broke
down the left and found Dan Potts on the overlap who floated a cross to the
near post where Hall sent a looping header over Declan Rudd. Jack Powell,
who was a late change to the line-up, almost created a second West Ham goal
just a minute after their first but captain Callum Driver was denied by the
crossbar from 30 yards. With 20 minutes gone it was still all action as
Norwich almost drew level when Driver once again took centre stage by
somehow clearing Aaron Tumwa's header off the line with Raphael Spiegel
beaten. 64 minutes into the game the Hammers felt they should have been 2-0
up. Potts showed terrific vision, turning his man on the byline before
pulling the back to Moncur, who fizzed his shot towards goal. The keeper was
beaten and a goal looked certain but, just like Driver in the first half,
Norwich had a hero of their own in Ewan McNeil, who stopped the ball dead on
the line. Despite the Hammers' claims that the ball was over the line, their
protests were waved away.

Norwich continued to struggle and were unable to break down the resolute
West Ham United back line and Ruddock secured the points on 90 minutes,
turning in the box before firing into the corner past Rudd. Meanwhile, Blair
Turgott was also in action on Friday some 1500 miles away, scoring twice as
the England Under-19s ran out 6-0 winners against the Faroe Islands in
Tallinn, Estonia. The Irons youngster was thwarted on two occasions early on
by keeper Eli Leifsson, but eventually beat him in the eleventh minute from
20-yards before adding a second and England's fifth with eight minutes
remaining. Arsenal's Chuba Akpom also scored twice with substitutes Hallam
Hope and Calum Chambers also on the scoresheet. Next up for Turgott and
England is a tie with Ukraine on Monday.

West Ham United: Spiegel, Driver, Potts, Moncur, Chambers, Spence, Powell
(Ruddock 55), Lletget, McCallum, Fanimo, Hall.
Subs not used: Lee, Baxter, Tombides, Wearen.

Norwich City: Rudd, McNeil, Tumwa, Durojaiye, Gafaiti, Sheriff, Jacob
Murphy, Hamilton (Barker 82), Loza, King (Clunan 65), Josh Murphy
(Hall-Johnson 82).
Subs not used: Steer, Morris, Barker.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taylor hoping for a happy Monday
WHUFC.com
Matt Taylor is targeting three points when West Ham United travel to QPR on
Monday night
28.09.2012

Matt Taylor is hoping to help fire West Ham United to their first away win
of the season when they visit Queens Park Rangers on Monday night. After a
disappointing first away-day of the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League season
at Swansea City last month, the Hammers put in an improved performance in a
0-0 draw at Norwich City on 15 September. Taylor now hopes they can go one
better at Loftus Road, but knows QPR will also be hoping for three points
having failed to win any of their opening five league fixtures. "I think the
key for us is to be solid at the back and look to convert the chances we
create," Taylor said. "If we do this then hopefully we can come away with a
positive result. "It will be a hard game - we haven't won away in the league
this season, so we would like to get that monkey off our backs. I think it
is going to be a good game."

Taylor believes that the fixture will benefit from the added spice that
London derbies always tend to provide. The match will also be West Ham
United's first league game under floodlights this season, so a lively
atmosphere is expected. "We are looking to continue what has been a solid
start for us in the Barclays Premier League, there are no easy games and it
is also a London derby. "We are a promoted side so perhaps that works in our
favour, there might not be the huge expectation on us as a club or a team in
that respect. We have had a good start to the season and we want to build on
it starting Monday. "QPR are the home side and they will want to impose
themselves early on so we can expect a frantic start. They will come out
fast but we also want to stake a claim on the game. Myself and the lads are
very much looking forward to it."

Taylor scored his first goal of the season in the 3-0 win against Fulham and
although he enjoyed getting on the scoresheet that day, a win for the team
is of far greater importance. "I don't mind who scores or who gets on the
end of chances. As long as we score and we win nothing else matters.
"Of course it would be nice to chip in if I can, but any goal is a good
goal. It doesn't matter how it goes in as long as it is the goal that gets
us the result we want."

Captain Kevin Nolan snatched a late equaliser in the Hammers' last outing
against Sunderland last weekend, but Taylor is hoping that a solitary point
is the least they return with from west London. "Sunderland showed when they
came to our place that every game is a difficult one. It was to our credit
that we kept going and got a reward for those efforts. "In my mind any point
in the Premier League is a good point, especially away from home. Hopefully
that is the least we will finish with on Monday night."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mavila making progress
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's young summer signing from Wycombe Wanderers has settled in
quickly
28.09.2012

Nathan Mavila has plenty of ambition - ambition to make it as a top-class
professional footballer and ambition to set the record straight about his
native Brixton.
Born and raised to Congolese parents, the summer capture from Wycombe
Wanderers captained both south and inner London as a schoolboy. A versatile
full-back or winger, the first-year scholar has a maturity that belies his
16 years. Mavila has settled quickly at West Ham United and, looking ahead
to the Under-18s' game away at Norwich City on Saturday morning, he knows
what he wants to achieve in the game. "I'm from Brixton and I started out
playing for a club called Afewee Urban when I was seven or eight, where I
was team-mates with [West Ham team-mate] Leo Chambers. I've lived in Brixton
all my life. "I got scouted by Wycombe when I was in Year Seven in 2007 and
I was there for five years. Other clubs came in for me and I went on trial
to Chelsea but didn't get in. I have come to West Ham because of the
reputation the club has. "I want to thank the Wycombe scout Michael
Carnegie, assistant manager Richard Dobson and the first-team manager Gary
Waddock for what they did for me and my development. "I'd also like to thank
my teacher from Sacred Heart School Richard Lasiquot and my dad Mr Muanda
Mavila. "I was attracted to West Ham because of the opportunities available
at the club and also because I knew a few of the people here. I didn't just
want to go somewhere and not feel at home. London is closer to home but, at
the same time, it's easy to feel not at home. "I think I am just finding my
feet at the moment and trying to do my thing. I want to push on and, if I do
really well this season, then I want to push on into the Development Squad
next season."

Mavila's comfort at his new club has been evidenced by his fine start to
life in a claret and blue shirt. The left-sided player has started twice and
appeared in the opening four Barclays Under-18 Premier League fixtures,
scoring his maiden goal in a 4-0 victory over West Bromwich Albion. He has
been deployed as a winger ahead of left-back Frazer Shaw, but revealed he
can play anywhere down the flank or even wide on the right. "At Wycombe I
was a left winger until Under-15s, but they told me the Under-18s needed a
left-back and asked me if I wanted to play there and I said I would give it
a try. I played there for two seasons and the club see me as a winger again
and I'm enjoying it. "I get on well with Frazer and he talks to me a lot on
and off the pitch. We've got a good relationship, as I have with Josh Siafa
when I play on the right."

Like many left-sided players, Mavila is a massive fan of Chelsea and
England's Ashley Cole: "All my life I have watched him. He is top-drawer in
terms of his attacking and defending. He is consistent and I think he's a
good role model and a leader. "I think I've got more things to work on
myself. I can improve my movement and strength and my defending because,
having moved on to the wing, I have lost those habits a little bit and I
need to get them back. I also need to offer a bit more in the final third."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The kids are still United
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 28th September 2012
By: Staff Writer

Jordan Spence has expressed his disappointment after West Ham were sent
crashing out of the Capital One Cup on Tuesday evening. The Hammers were
beaten 4-1 on the night with Sam Allardyce receiving criticism from some
quarters for dropping so many established first team players. Nine of the
team that had drawn with Sunderland 72 hours earlier were absent from the
starting line-up against the Latics. However that afforded the under-fire
manager the opportunity to test a number of youngsters on the fringe of the
first team squad. Along with Spence, Robert Hall, Danny Potts, Matthias
Fanimo and Dylan Tombides all featured at some stage of the game in which
West Ham took an early lead through Modibo Maiga before shipping four goals
and thus denying them the chance to face Bradford in the next round. To
Spence's credit, he admitted that the whole performance - including his own
- had been under par. "It was a good opportunity for us younger lads to come
in and gain experience and show that we are still pushing for a place in the
first team," he told whufc.com. "Unfortunately, we didn't do that. "I will
go away now and analyse the game from a personal point of view to see what I
did well and what I can do better because I am all about improving. "To
concede four goals and to lose the game the way we did is extremely
disappointing. But we didn't do enough defensively to warrant anything from
the game."

The most positive note of a desperately disappointing night was the first
team debut of Dylan Tombides, who was only given the all-clear to resume his
career in April following his recovery from testicular cancer. And Hammers
legend Julian Dicks, speaking in his latest column for KUMB.com was full of
praise for the young Australian striker. "Fighting cancer is going to be the
biggest battle of his career," he said. "Everything else should be easy by
comparison. "For him to get over that is incredible and it's great to see
him back and getting a few minutes on the pitch."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The grass isn't always Greener
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 28th September 2012
By: Tom Kilbey

What a difference a couple of months make. Rob Green, idolised by the West
Ham fans and all but guaranteed a starting position between the sticks, now
finds himself second choice at QPR. His short career at the Hoops can hardly
be described as a successful one thus far. After turning his back on West
Ham and signing a lucrative deal at the West London club, the England
International would have expected to be a staple in the QPR starting XI.
Instead, after a contender for the worst performance of the season, a 5-0
defeat against Swansea was all the persuading Mark Hughes needed to re-enter
the transfer market once again.

The following weeks saw QPR sign what seemed like every footballer over the
age of 30; among them was Brazilian keeper Julio Cesar. Green was
immediately relegated to the bench, and barring a run of poor performances
from Cesar, his career at his new club could be already be over. Hughes was
quick to point out that he would talk with Rob and discuss his options,
hinting at the possibility he would be able to leave on a free. In all
honesty, no one can blame Mark Hughes. Cesar is a tremendous coup for his
club, and would have been foolish to reject the chance to sign him simply
because he had already signed a keeper during the transfer window.

In other words, Robbo has options. A potential move back to West Ham has
been hinted at, but nothing has come from either club. The hypothetical
question as to whether we would have him back, however, is certainly an
interesting one. The first thing to note is that Sam Allardyce is an
extremely stubborn man. Despite being within his rights, a move from West
Ham to QPR would do little to advance Green's career, regardless of whether
he was playing first team football or otherwise. The obvious conjecture to
make is that Green's head was turned by a big pay cheque.

Resultantly, Allardyce would see this as a lack of loyalty towards him and
the club, and a lack of trust in his ability to take the club forward.
Because of this, I think Allardyce would be reluctant to rescue Green from
his QPR nightmare. On top of this, if BFS truly felt that his side were
lacking in the goalkeeper department, he could easily sign Craig Gordon, who
is still without a club. We have been active in bringing in free agents on
trial, and the fact that the ex-Sunderland stopper's name hasn't even been
mentioned tells me all I need to know about Sam's faith in Jussi and Stephen
Henderson.

I think the fans would have a much more mixed opinion on the topic. Many
fans would feel betrayed that Greeno let money take precedence over
loyalties. But at the same time, the mantra that you should act in the best
intentions of the club also comes to mind. Such a likeable character, and
almost universally liked among West Ham fans, time would almost certainly
heal the wounds of his departure from the club, and in time, he would be
accepted back in a West Ham shirt.

But the far more relevant question here is, do we need him back?

Clearly, for reasons I have already discussed, Allardyce would appear to
believe the answer to that question is a resounding no. Although our
goalkeepers are weaker this year, I think its time to move on. I like Rob
just as much as the next West Ham fan, but even I allowed myself a wry smile
when I saw his debut performance.

"Regrets, I've had a few..."

As a team who is looking to move forward, we should look forward, not back.
Re-signing a 32-year-old ex-player with diminished loyalties for the club,
on what would be a lucrative contract, does not make financial sense.

I am hopeful our Finnish keeper, who's surname I still refuse to learn how
to spell, is returning to form after a shaky start. Let's not forget Stephen
Henderson either, who is expected to blossom into a solid goalkeeper. We
certainly don't have the best keepers in the League, but there are more
viable and more sustainable options than signing Green back.

Only Green himself knows if he regrets the decision to leave West Ham.
Perhaps the extra £10,000 a week is a fair trade for first team football.
But maybe the money does not soften the blow. One thing is clear, the grass
isn't always Greener on the other side.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boris to Pull the Plug on West Ham's Olympic bid?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die

I'm not sure why but over the last few days I have started to feel very
nervous about West Ham's bid to take over the Olympic Stadium. As you know,
I am a supporter of the move. And then today Boris Johnson says he is not
"wedded" to football interests taking over the stadium. Boris chairs the
committee which has to choose between the four competing bids. As three of
them are related to football, this is a very strange comment for him to
make. I seriously wonder if he is preparing the ground for yet another
rethink. If so, it would be a scandal and West Ham should sue him for the
waste of time and several million pounds it has cost to put the various bids
together.

I hope I am wrong.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady's football diary
By KARREN BRADY
Published: 7 hrs ago
The Sun
Saturday, September 22

FOR uncomplicated souls like you and me, the fact that West Ham have 11
shots on target and Sunderland two probably means that West Ham have had
much the better of the game, even though the result is a draw. For
Sunderland's Martin O'Neill and many other managers in similar circumstances
it doesn't work like that at all. At least not for public consumption. So
O'Neill's claim that "I thought we should have won" is either looking on the
bright side of life or a view like that held in Britain after Dunkirk.

Sunday, September 23
IT'S a terrible irony a referee's incorrect decisions can never be put right
while those of three inquiries into the Hillsborough disaster were, finally,
after 23 years. Today, a great wrong on the 96 Liverpool supporters who died
in an avoidable hell is acknowledged in respectful ways at Anfield where
Liverpool and their keenest rivals, Manchester United, are meeting. Maybe
the usually excellent referee Mark Halsey would like to rescind the two
decisions that cost the home team their first win of the season. He can't.
But Liverpool at last win something far more important. The truth.

Monday, September 24
I'M not sure what Wales manager Chris Coleman and Sky Sports presenter
Charlotte Jackson were broadcasting from the Liberty Stadium. After seeing
pictures published today, I can only guess that from the position of his
hand on her knee he was demonstrating where he once damaged his ligaments in
a car crash.
A few years ago his lovely wife, Belinda, was so distracted by the thought
he was having affairs that she employed a company to bug his car for
evidence.
I know of a dozen other wives who have done the same thing, some with
remarkable results.

Tuesday, September 25
THE PUSSIES are rioting over the fat cats, £64million pair Hulk and Axel
Witsel, at Zenit St Petersburg. Two of the Russian players have complained
so strongly about the contracts of Hulk, said to be on £5million-a-year and
the Belgian about three-quarters of that, they've been told to shut up and
dropped to the youth squad. Lucky for them, in contrast the girls of Pussy
Riot were jailed for two years. In the end, most of the arguments amount to
status in the dressing room and a player named Hulk is bound to have a lot
of muscle there, anyway.

Wednesday, September 26
I SEE Roberto Mancini is having an anger attack after Man City's home
beating by Villa, and Paul Lambert is on the end of it. Roberto has a bit of
a reputation, but how impressive it is if it's based on the fact that he
once had a fist fight with Trevor Francis, I'm not so sure. Anyway, last
night at Upton Park, Sam is equally grumpy and tells the understudies
they've lost their case to take over in forthcoming Premier League games.
Sam, first and foremost likes to win. Secondly, despite the rubbish that's
peddled in some parts of the media he knows that playing good football is
the best way consistently to do that. He has already proved a brilliant
appointment for us.

Thursday, September 27
THE FA have always insisted that the referee's decision is final. Well,
always until they get involved. They didn't like the verdict of the referee
— in this case Westminster Magistrates Court — in the John Terry affair, so
they decided he'd have to answer to them on a similar charge. This afternoon
their kangaroo court found the Chelsea captain (below) guilty, fined him and
banned him for four matches. How righteous they must feel. But it wasn't
racism they were kicking out of football, it was justice. The language
reported as being used against Anton Ferdinand was offensive in several
ways, but Terry was found innocent of racism under the law of the land and,
like it or not, that should have been the end of the matter.

Friday, September 28
A BUNCH of flowers and a pot of anti-ageing cream for 'mature skin' turns up
at my office. A fellow Premier League director has gone and bought a
cosmetic company and he would like me to test his cream as I am the 'right
target audience'. Bloody cheek! I call him and he explains he didn't know
who else to ask as his girlfriend is much younger than him. He's a
fabulously wealthy 50ish-year-old man... and she is in her 20s. "Do you
think she would marry me if I tell her I'm 47?" he asks me. "Your chances
are better," I reply "if you tell her you're 90." Revenge.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR vs West Ham team news: Rangers without four defenders, Carroll still out
for Hammers
The Mirror

Anton Ferdinand, Jose Bosingwa and Fabio are all out with hamstring injuries
and Armand Traore has an injured leg. QPR will have to face West Ham in
Monday's London derby without four first-team defenders. Anton Ferdinand,
Jose Bosingwa and Fabio are all out with hamstring injuries and Armand
Traore (leg) is also unavailable. Striker Andy Johnson is out with a
long-term knee injury but midfielder Adel Taarabt could return after missing
the last two games with a hamstring problem.

Provisional squad: Green, Cesar, Onuoha, Hill, Nelsen, Mbia, Diakite, Derry,
Park, Granero, Dyer, Taarabt, Hoilett, Faurlin, Wright-Phillips, Ephraim,
Mackie, Zamora, Cisse.

Carroll still out with hamstring injury

Midfielder Gary O'Neil says has recovered from the knee injury he sustained
during Tuesday's defeat to Wigan and will be fit for West Ham's London derby
against QPR on Monday. Sam Allardyce is likely to make wholesale changes
from the XI that were beaten 4-1 by the Latics, although Modibo Maiga could
keep his place after scoring on his second consecutive start. On-loan
Liverpool striker Andy Carroll (hamstring) is unlikely to play and Jack
Collison (knee) is unavailable but Yossi Benayoun could make his first start
since moving back to the Hammers on loan.

Provisional squad: Jaaskelainen, Demel, O'Brien, Reid, Collins, Noble,
Diame, Taylor, Maiga, Nolan, Cole, Jarvis, Vaz Te, Benayoun, McCartney,
Diarra, Tomkins, Henderson, O'Neil, Carroll.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer lifts the lid on West Ham nightmare
Sep 28 2012 By Jacob Murtagh
Ealing Gazette

KIERON Dyer admits his four-year spell at West Ham was the most frustrating
of his career – now he's determined to make up for lost time at QPR. The
33-year-old made just 15 league starts during his injury-ravaged spell at
the Hammers before being released when his contract expired in 2011. Neil
Warnock offered Dyer the chance to kick-start his career at Loftus Road,
only to suffer a freak foot problem three minutes into his debut which ruled
him out for the season. However, the utility man is back to fitness and
played 90 minutes at right-back in Rangers' defeat at Spurs on Sunday. Dyer
is gearing up to face the Irons for the first time since making the switch
across the capital in the London derby on Monday night. And he insists he's
hell-bent on putting his miserable stint at the Boleyn behind him. He said:
"It was the most frustrating time of my career. We got relegated and I only
played a handful of games. "I believe that if I got a run of games under my
belt and stayed injury-free then I could've helped our cause more. "It
wasn't for a lack of effort. I tried everything physically possible to get
on the pitch but it wasn't to be. "I'm absolutely gutted because it was four
years where I never played three games on the trot. If you considered what I
went through on a personal level I look back at that with a lot of regrets
because it was a case of what if? "It's a fantastic club with fantastic
fans, but I was never on the pitch enough to justify the wages and the fee
they paid for me which is very unfortunate."

West Ham's co-chairman David Sullivan suggested Dyer should retire back in
2010 due to his woeful injury record. But Dyer refuses to get into a war of
words with his former boss, and insists he's not surprised at the flack that
came his way. "That's the way the game is," he added. "If you're not playing
then you are not affecting what can happen for West Ham so you get called
every name under the sun. "Even though the owners came out and said some
harsh things about me at the time, I think they've done an incredible job.
"I got on really well with Karen Brady and never will have a bad word to say
about anyone at that football club. "Hopefully I'll play on Monday and if we
scored I wouldn't celebrate because I wouldn't want to disrespect the fans
at all."

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

http://vyperz.blogspot.com