Dev Squad 2-1 Fulham U21
WHUFC.com
The Dev Squad win 2-1 after putting in their best performance of the season
06.02.2015
DEVELOPMENT SQUAD v FULHAM U21
BARCLAYS U21 PREMIER LEAGUE
RUSH GREEN STADIUM
FRIDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.00 PM
REFEREE: IAN RATHBONE
FT: Dev Squad 2-1 Fulham U21
A superb, deserved win for the Dev Squad as they beat Fulham 2-1. To a man,
the Dev Squad put in a performance full of creativity, graft and hard work.
95: More superb hold up play from Brown, definitely one of his best
performances for the U21s.
94: Final few seconds here surely...Fulham are pressing with everything
they've got left to force an equaliser. They have the ball in the back of
the net but the linesman had flagged for offside.
92: Spiegel rises high to claim a cross, the big Swiss goalie has been solid
all night.
90: Jordan Brown is on the end of a heavy challenge from Baba and is
receiving treatment. Last few minutes.
88: Corner to Fulham after Joe Powell gets across to block the cross. A man
in white gets his head to it but Spiegel is equal to it.
85: The Hammers monumental effort continues as they press and harry every
ball. It is working well for them as they win the ball high up and the
field.
82: The young left back Vashon Neufville is having an excellent debut for
the U21s tonight. Solid in defence, tough tackling and a great outlet going
forward, looking forward to seeing more of him in the near future.
79: Brilliant hold up play by Jordan Brown in the corner as he fends off two
men and buys a throw in.
76: Goal saving tackle from Manny Onariase! De La Torre was through on goal
and about to pull the trigger only for the big centre back to come out of
nowhere and make an inch perfect tackle. Superb defending.
73: A brief break in play as Tunji Akinola and Alex Pike are both receiving
treatment for cramp.
70: Some tired legs beginning to show such is the effort been put in by both
sides. Fulham playing on Monday night may also be starting to take it's
toll.
67: Another wonderful move from the Hammers. It starts with Spiegel and
works its way through the team via several one-twos to Brown on the six yard
box who's shot is blocked. What a move that was, great invention from a very
young line up, think Argentina in the 2006 World Cup sort of vibe.
64: Josh Cullen gets a ticking off from the referee for one too many fouls.
The central midfielder has been superb tonight, leading by example and
showing his credentials as captain.
61: Another good move from the Hammers as they press high up the pitch and
retain possession. Nasha flicks on to Joe Powell who wins a corner. The
resulting delivery causes all sorts of problems but the Cottagers clear
their lines eventually.
59: Stoppage in play as Jordan Evans receives some treatment after being
left in a heap.
56: Fulham's Ange-Freddy Plumain tries his luck from distance but it goes
harmlessly wide.
53: Good move from the Hammers sees Josh Cullen shoot from the edge of the
box. His effort is blocked seconds before Parfitt-Williams is tackled well
by Noe Baba as he burst into the box. The central defender had to get that
right otherwise it would have been a penalty.
50: Fulham make all three substitutes as they look to turn this game around.
Ryan Williams, Noe Baba and Luca De La Torre are all on.
47: The Dev Squad have the ball in the back of the net almost immediately as
Pafitt-Williams taps in Brown's cross-cum-shot however he is flagged for
offside and it will not count.
46: We're back under way here at Rush Green and here's hoping for more of
the same!
HT: Dev Squad 2-1 Fulham U21. Undoubtedly one of the halfs of the season
from the Dev Squad, to a man they are pulling their weight and then some.
42: Close! Fulham could hardly get any closer to an equaliser as Pike's
scuffed clearance canons off the crossbar before the rebound hits the post
too. A real let off for the Hammers.
39: Jordan Brown rounds the keeper following another sloppy backpass before
he shoots from an incredibly tight angle. Fulham's Jordan Evans recovers
just in time to make a goaline clearance. So unlucky, the big No9 did
everything right.
37: Alex Pike tries his luck from the edge of the box but it fires just
wide. Worth an effort from the right back, who is having a superb game.
35: This game really is being played at a hundred miles an hour. Nasha is
fouled on the half way line which allows both sides a short breather.
Captain Cullen is doing a fantastic job of directing the midfield battle,
both win the ball and verbally so far.
32: Fulham are growing into the game and enjoying more possession. They
don't have anything to show for their efforts but are building the pressure
gradually.
30: Superb defending by Vashon Neufville who was beaten once, but sprints 30
yards and recovers well. Fulham win a corner which forces Spiegel into a
fantastic save, low to his right.
26: Great defence-splitting pass from the youngster Neufville as he searches
for Parfitt-Williams. Norman has to come rushing off his line to clear the
danger. Excellent vision from the left back.
24: Superb one-two between Parfitt-Williams and Jordan Brown sets the free
from the defender. The ball unfortunately just gets caught between his feet
which allows the Fulham defence to regroup.
22: Again Fulham go close as Taggart throws himself at Tue Na's drilled
cross from the left wing. He connects well but it falls just wide of
Spiegel's far post.
20: Fulham go close to an equaliser following a goal mouth scramble after an
inswinging corner. The Dev Squad eventually clear their lines. End to end
stuff here at Rush Green!
17: Yet again the Hammers are finding a lot of joy down the right wing. This
time Alex Pike gets forward and finds Powell on the edge of the box. He tees
himself up before unleashing a vicious shot which goalkeeper Magnus Norman
just gets behind.
14: GOAL! Jordan Brown restores the Hammers' lead with an almost identical
goal to Cullen's. Again, Powell puts a great ball across the six yard box
which Brown heads intside the far post.
11: Goal! Equaliser for Fulham as the visitors respond almost immediately.
No9 Adam Taggart is on hand to slot home coolly past Spiegel after running
on to long ball. All square.
9: GOAL! 1-0 to the Dev Squad. Joe Powell puts in a fantastic cross which
Josh Cullen runs onto at the back post, an excellent goal.
6: Another opportunity for the Hammers after a short goal kick goes straight
to Parfitt-Williams, he turns and feeds Brown on the edge of the area who
unselfishly passes into Powell instead of shooting. The Fulham defence just
manage to scramble it away.
5: Free kick for the Hammers out on the right wing. Powell floats a good
ball into the back post but Fulham's height advantage helps them to clear it
away.
3: Good intensity frm the Hammers. Amos Nasha, Joe Powell and Josh Cullen
all going in strongly trying to win the ball back.
2: Bright start from the Hammers as they look to go on the offensive
immediately. First Djair Parfitt-Williams and then Jordan Brown have a go at
running at the back four.
1: Tonight's captain Josh Cullen has won the toss and chosen to kick off.
Game on!
Both teams are out on the pitch, prematch handshakes are concluded and we're
all set! The Hammers, in their traditional claret and blue strip are kicking
left to right, the Cottagers are in their customary white and back strip.
Just five minutes until kick off! An excellent game in prospect tonight, one
which both teams will be going all out to win.
Little under half an hour to go until kick off and the fans are beginning to
stream in. There's a great atmosphere building up inside Rush Green, superb
set list from the stadium DJ too.
Both teams, under the lights, are out on the Rush Green Stadium pitch.
They'll need an extra vigorous warm up tonight as it is seriously chilly.
Tonight's teams have already played each other twice this season. In the
reverse fixture the Hammers came away from Motspur Park with a 1-1 draw,
while the Cottagers won 3-2 in the Barclays U21 Premier League International
Cup fixture back in December.
Just under an hour until kick off here at a very chilly Rush Green. The
Hammers are looking for their first win in five games as they look to get
off the foot of the table while the Cottagers go into tonight's game off the
back of an impressive 2-1 win away at Manchester United.
West Ham United: Spiegel, Pike, Neufville, Nasha, Onariase, Akinola, Powell,
Makasi, Brown, Cullen (c), Parfitt-Williams
Subs: Diangana, Bogard (GK), Borg, Carter, Hector-Ingram
Fulham: Norman, Voser, Evans, Hoogland, Buatu, Amorebieta, Tue Na, Della
Verde, Taggart, Plumain, Richards
Subs: Barnes, Baba, Williams, De La Torre
Tonight's teams are in...
Hello and welcome to tonight's coverage as the West Ham Unitd Development
Squad take on Fulham U21 in tonight's Barclays U21 Premier League match.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'We're not afraid of anyone'
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble is confident of recording another big home win when Manchester
United come to visit
06.02.2015
Mark Noble says West Ham United have nothing to fear from an in-form
Manchester United. While the Red Devils have lost just once since early
November, the Hammers have enjoyed some fantastic results on home turf this
season and go into Sunday's game sitting eighth in the Barclays Premier
League. Having already beaten last season's champions and runners-up, Noble
insists West Ham can complete a Boleyn Ground hat-trick of victories by
defeating Louis van Gaal's side. "It's a different kettle of fish when it's
at our place," said Noble. "Man United have probably flown a little bit
under the radar with the results they've been having, as they just seem to
keep nicking wins and I expect them to be up there at the end of the season.
"But our place is a bit of a fortress now and everyone is looking forward to
it. Look at the teams we've beaten at home already - Man City and Liverpool
- and we gave Arsenal a really good go. "We're not afraid of any of the big
teams and we know if we play to how we can play, we have every chance of
winning the game on Sunday. It's a long way away from last season when we
went into these games in the bottom three and a little bit worried about
what the score was going to be. "We can enjoy these games now with the
points we've got and try and go for the three points. Man to man it's not
much of a gulf these days compared to a couple of years ago. "Hopefully
we'll get our players back out on the pitch and ready to go and we can go
out and give them a proper go. If we get them out there then we've beat a
lot of big teams at our place and there is no reason we can't do Man U as
well."
One player who will be important to the Hammers' hopes on Sunday is Aaron
Cresswelll, the left-back who has impressed so much since his summer switch
from Ipswich Town. Noble is in no doubt that the No3 - an ever-present this
term - has been one of West Ham's standout performers all season long. "Do
you know what, he is one of the best signings I've seen come to the Club
since I've been here," the midfielder purred. "A lot of clubs delve into the
foreign market and don't dip into the Championship any more, but we've
signed a fantastic player in Cress. "Not only is he a good player but he's
great around the squad. He's a great lad and when you get someone like that
who comes in and plays so well, you're really happy for them. "When he first
came, he was a little bit quiet but he has settled down now. Our dressing
room has got a lot of good characters who welcome players and help them to
settle in and that spirit helped us to stay up last year. "A lesser team
probably would have been relegated, but because we've got such a strong
squad and a good bunch of boys we stayed up. We've brought the new boys into
the fold I'm sure if you spoke to Cress he'd tell you he is thoroughly
enjoying it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Potts delighted with performance
WHUFC.com
U21 coach Steve Potts was delighted with the Dev Squad's performance against
Fulham
06.02.2015
West Ham United U21 coach Steve Potts was delighted with the Development
Squad's 2-1 win over Fulham at Rush Green on Friday 6 February.
The Hammers, who fielded another young side, took an early lead as captain
Josh Cullen headed home Joe Powell's cross into the net.
Cullen's opener sparked a frantic five minutes as Adam Taggart equalised a
minute later, only for striker Jordan Brown to restore the Hammers' lead
with a similar header at the back post. The win was only the Hammers third
in the league this season as they hope to beat the drop. Speaking after the
game, Potts said: "I was really pleased with the performance. Obviously I'm
very pleased to win, but the way we went about it was very, very good. "We
started on the front foot from the first minute and pushed on from there. We
wanted to take the game to Fulham and ask them a few questions. We did that,
we went 1-0 up but was then very naïve and all of a sudden it was 1-1.
"Sometimes that can cause you to doubt yourself but we stood firm and
refocused. Went 2-1 up and then it was a case of keeping it going."
The starting eleven included a number of younger players including Vashon
Neufville who made his first start for the U21s as well as Tunji Akinola,
making only second U21 appearance. Potts continued to praise the efforts of
the youngsters: "The younger lads were excellent, we had three school boys
playing out there tonight. It was a risk but certainly one worth taking and
they showed that tonight. The whole team was pretty young and they did very
well collectively and individually. I couldn't fault any of them. "It can
help them to improve as players. We could've faced sharper players, stronger
maybe but they'll learn quickly from tonight."
The Dev Squad's next home game is against Manchester City at the Boleyn
Ground on Friday 13 March, kick off 7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers announce Betway sponsorship
WHUFC.com
Long-term partnership marks Betway's first foray into football sponsorship
06.02.2015
West Ham United are delighted to announce a new long-term partnership that
will see leading online gaming platform Betway become the Club's new
principal sponsor. The deal, the biggest in the Club's history, will see the
Betway logo feature on the front of all of the Club's senior teams' playing
shirts and trainingwear, starting with Sunday's first-team fixture with
Manchester United, along with naming rights to the Boleyn Ground's West
Stand. The new partnership will cover an incredibly exciting period for West
Ham, who start their final season at the Boleyn Ground in August before
moving to a state-of-the-art new home in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park the
following summer. Betway's Executive Director Bob Dutnall said: "West Ham
United are a club with a rich history and passionate supporters and we're
thrilled to have secured this sponsorship at a time when the team are
performing so well. "The Barclays Premier League is the world's most popular
football competition and the sport is synonymous with excitement and
betting, making it a perfect fit for our growing brand.
"We are looking forward to supporting the Hammers on the pitch and rewarding
their fans off it with innovative Betway offers and special markets."
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady said: "We are pleased to welcome
Betway to the Club as our new principal sponsor, in what is our biggest-ever
commercial deal. "Like us, Betway are an ambitious, forward-thinking company
and the size of the agreement reflects our status as one of the fastest
growing brands in world football. "Betway join us at one of the most
exciting periods in our history and we will be working closely with them as
we prepare to bid an emotional farewell to our home of more than 110 years
before moving into our stunning new Stadium in 2016."
Betway deliver world-class sports betting, casino and poker to nearly two
million customers globally. This is the brand's first venture into football
and the next step in a sponsorship strategy that has already seen the
sportsbook invest heavily in darts as the Premier League sponsors and UK
horseracing, penning deals to lend their name to the Queen Mother Champion
Chase at the Cheltenham Festival and four major races throughout the 2015
Flat season. The Club will be making a further statement next week on how
supporters can update their 2014/15 replica shirts to include the Betway
logo. The official Club stores and the online store will also be stocking
the newly branded shirts - more information on this will follow next week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Adrian blogs for whufc.com ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League visit
of Manchester United
05.02.2015
Hola everyone!
Sunday is a big game for us and a tough one also. We're playing at home
though, in front of our fans and on our pitch. We have a strong squad and I
think it's a good moment for us to try and get three points again. It might
be a busy game for me with all the top class attacking players they have but
in the Premier League, you never have an easy game. I just want to help my
teammates and we'll be focused and going for the victory. Nobody has scored
a goal against me from as far out as Wayne Rooney last year, so I need to be
careful. It was an amazing goal for him, and you need to be wary of that
kind of skill. I work every day at the training ground to improve and it's
my job to make saves. I enjoy it every time when I help my teammates.
Overall we need to be strong to finish off our season well over the next few
months ands get as many wins as we can. Back to Sunday's game and Manchester
United have two fantastic Spanish goalkeepers, David de Gea and Victor
Valdes. I know them both and they are great people and great keepers. Valdes
was amazing at Barcelona for the last few years and de Gea has given good
performances for his team as well. It'll be a good Spanish battle in the
goal!
See you at the Boleyn Ground!
Adrian
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Man Utd
KO 16:15
Last updated at 12:57
By Steve Bower
BBC Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Sunday, 8 February
TEAM NEWS
West Ham central defenders James Collins and Winston Reid are out with
hamstring injuries suffered last week. Andy Carroll may not be risked after
hurting his ankle, but Diafra Sakho returns after a row over his withdrawal
from international duty was resolved. Manchester United are again without
injured midfielder Michael Carrick. Radamel Falcao will hope for a recall,
while Ashley Young is in contention after recovering from a hamstring strain
suffered on New Year's Day.
MATCH PREVIEW
When Manchester United's season so far is the topic of conversation, an
opinion you often hear is that they are not playing particularly well.
That always sparks a good debate, but the cold facts are that they begin the
weekend in the top three, five points behind reigning champions Manchester
City and with just one defeat in 16 league and cup matches. They have won
nine of their last 13 Premier League games and yet does Louis van Gaal know
his best team? Has he been able to name it yet? The United boss has had to
assess players and systems as he's gone along since the start of the season.
The fact that he has used 31 players in the campaign so far tells you
everything. He's used the transfer window to try to trim the squad and will
hope the injuries are kinder to him in the remaining months of the season
and he can find some consistency in his team selection. They haven't lost on
the road since the Manchester derby in November and have only been beaten
twice away in the league all season. However, their task of achieving a
league double over West Ham will be a challenging one.
"West Ham have only won one of their last six Premier League games but I
think they will give Manchester United some problems defensively. The pitch
is so tight at Upton Park and the Hammers will load the ball in to Andy
Carroll, presuming he is fit."
The Hammers have been excellent at home - only Arsenal have won at Upton
Park in the last 10 league games, during which they have picked up 23 points
from a possible 30. Sam Allardyce, who hasn't beaten United as West Ham
manager, was left frustrated in his attempts to conclude some ins and outs
at the end of the transfer window. However, his squad has enough depth to
continue to make this a positive season. This fixture has always had
intensity about it - last season's meeting saw Wayne Rooney score from the
halfway line - and the East End will expect drama once again.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Manchester United are unbeaten in their last 12 top-flight games against
West Ham, winning 11 of those matches.
West Ham's last win came on 29 December 2007 when Anton Ferdinand and
Matthew Upson scored late goals after Cristiano Ronaldo gave United an early
lead -but then missed a penalty.
West Ham United
The Hammers have 17 more points than at this stage last season - despite
having half as many clean sheets (five instead of 10).
They have scored a league-high 14 headed goals in the Premier League this
season.
Only Chelsea (8) have scored more Premier League goals from corners than
West Ham (7) in 2014-15.
West Ham's next defeat will be their 300th in the Premier League.
Manchester United
The Red Devils are unbeaten in their last six Premier League away matches
(W3, D3).
United could keep back-to-back clean sheets in Premier League away matches
for the first time this season.
Wayne Rooney has 10 goals in his last nine Premier League games against West
Ham, while Robin van Persie has netted six times in his last five top-flight
appearances against them.
Radamel Falcao has been involved in seven goals in nine league starts for
Manchester United (four goals and three assists).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce: Emmanuel Adebayor deal collapse 'frustrating'
BBC.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says the collapse of Emmanuel Adebayor's loan
deal was "frustrating". The Tottenham forward's move was blocked by Spurs
chairman Daniel Levy. Allardyce said: "A lot of moves were blocked for
various reasons so I'm not that bothered. From our point of view it left us
a bit frustrated. "It didn't look like we were going to be active until the
very end, but then we picked up five injuries and now we are very short."
On the Hammers injury list:
"It's particularly worrying at the moment, I've had to bring a list of the
injuries with me. James Collins, Winston Reid, Guy Demel, Diego Poyet,
Doneil Henry and Andy Carroll lie in our medical room at the moment. "We're
not sure how many of those will make it for Sunday. With such a big week
coming, three games in a week, there'll be very few risks taken, unless
they're 100% fit. If we play them it may exacerbate the injuries so we will
go to battle with what we've got."
On Diafra Sakho replacing Andy Carroll:
"Maybe, we'll have to wait and see." The Hammers were fined £71,000 by Fifa
following Senegalese striker Sakho's match-winning appearance against
Bristol City in the FA Cup, despite missing the African Cup of Nations with
a back injury.
On injury problems in defence:
"We went all out for a defender in the window after the Liverpool game.
However, it didn't work out, we were only in a position to get someone in on
a loan but we couldn't pull it off. "Everyone that wanted to come, wanted a
permanent deal, which we couldn't do at that time, so that's the position
we're in. Someone will have to fill in at the back and maybe stay there for
a while."
On using their 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford earlier in the season as
motivation:
"We certainly took some positives from the game as we almost came away with
a result. Had it not been for a poor decision to rule out Kevin Nolan's
equaliser we would have done. That would have been a great boost for us at
the time.
"On Sunday, it's about us keeping a clean sheet, the longer we do that the
more we will frustrate them and the better chance we have of winning."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Betway confirmed as new principal sponsor
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 6th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have confirmed that gambling firm Betway will be the club's
new long-term sponsor. The Hammers were left without a principal sponsor
after former associate Alpari went into liquidation following a run on the
Swiss France recently. And this morning the club confirmed a brand new
partneship with Betway, which will result in the company's logo replacing
Alpari's on the clubs shirt with immediate effecte.
Additionally, the Boleyn Ground's West Stand will also be known as the
Betway Stand in any future club literature. Karren Brady, West Ham's part
time vice chair told whufc.com: " We are pleased to welcome Betway to the
Club as our new principal sponsor, in what is our biggest-ever commercial
deal. "Like us, Betway are an ambitious, forward-thinking company and the
size of the agreement reflects our status as one of the fastest growing
brands in world football. "Betway join us at one of the most exciting
periods in our history and we will be working closely with them as we
prepare to bid an emotional farewell to our home of more than 110 years
before moving into our stunning new Stadium in 2016."
Betway's Executive Director Bob Dutnall added: "West Ham United are a club
with a rich history and passionate supporters and we're thrilled to have
secured this sponsorship at a time when the team are performing so well.
"The Barclays Premier League is the world's most popular football
competition and the sport is synonymous with excitement and betting, making
it a perfect fit for our growing brand.
"We are looking forward to supporting the Hammers on the pitch and rewarding
their fans off it with innovative Betway offers and special markets."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on the defensive
KUMb.com
Filed: Friday, 6th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce is delighted to welcome Diafra Sakho back into his team - but
admits he is struggling to field a defence against Manchester United this
Sunday. The Hammers boss could be without several first team players when
West Ham host the Red Devils on Sunday afternoon, including Winston Reid,
James Collins, Guy Demel, Diego Poyet and Andy Carroll. Additionally, his
only other first team central defender - James Tomkins - is also struggling
for fitness following recent injury - and that has given Allardyce a major
selection headache ahead of this weekend's big game. "The injuries are
worrying," he said. "I've brought my list with me - Reid, Collins, Demel,
Henry, Carroll and Poyet are all doubtful and lie in our medical room at the
moment. "We are not sure how many if any of those will make Sunday's game.
Obviously, with a very busy week, very few risks will be taken. Unless they
are 100 percent fit, they won't be playing. "With such a big week coming -
three games in a week - there'll be very few risks taken unless they're 100%
fit. If we play them it may exacerbate the injuries, so we will go to battle
with what we've got." West Ham will be attempting to beat Man U for the
first time since goals from Carlton Cole and Jonathan Spector gave West Ham
a 4-0 Carling Cup win in the snow, back in November 2010. Since then the two
sides have met on eight occasions, with the Hammers drawing two and losing
six.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham battling long injury list ahead of Manchester United clash
Last Updated: 06/02/15 1:04pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has bemoaned a lengthy list of injuries ahead
of Sunday's clash with Manchester United. The Hammers welcome Louis van
Gaal's side to Upton Park with several key men unavailable - and Allardyce
is frustrated he was unable to bring in more personnel before the transfer
deadline. "(The injury list) is particularly worrying at the moment," said
Allardyce. "I've had to bring a list of the injuries with me. James Collins,
Winston Reid, Guy Demel, Diego Poyet, Doneil Henry and Andy Carroll lie in
our medical room at the moment. "We're not sure how many of those will make
it for Sunday. With such a big week coming, three games in a week, there'll
be very few risks taken, unless they're 100 per cent fit. If we play them it
may exacerbate the injuries so we will go to battle with what we've got. "It
is why we went all out for a defender in the window after the Liverpool
game. However it didn't work out, we were only in a position to get someone
in on a loan but we couldn't pull it off. "Everyone that wanted to come
wanted a permanent deal, which we couldn't do at that time, so that's the
position we're in. Someone will have to fill in at the back and maybe stay
there for a while."
When asked about the rumoured failed move for Tottenham striker Emmanuel
Adebayor, Alladyce added: "A lot of moves were blocked for various different
reasons, so I'm not that bothered. "From our point of view it left us a bit
frustrated, and especially Carlton Cole on the basis that he would've moved
had Adebayor joined, as it happened we couldn't afford to let him go. "It
was a frustrating day, originally it didn't look like we were going to be
active until the very end, but then we picked up five injuries and now we
are very short. We don't have a problem with (Tottenham), it is their
decision. If anything that was the only loan available, it just didn't work
out at the end."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham host Manchester United in part three of Super Sunday triple-header
Last Updated: 06/02/15 10:06pm
SSN
West Ham host Manchester United on Super Sunday looking to revive their
stuttering drive for a top-four finish. Just a point and a place separated
the two sides before the Christmas interval as the Hammers went five games
unbeaten in the league to strengthen their Champions League credentials. But
Sam Allardyce's side have faltered of late, picking up just five points from
their last six league outings and now sit in eighth position, seven points
adrift of Sunday's opponents. United, who have lost just one game in 16,
travel to east London having booked their place in the fifth round of the FA
Cup with a 3-0 win over Cambridge United on Tuesday. Louis van Gaal's side
have lost just one of their last 20 trips to the capital, a run the club
will be keen to extend as they look to pull away from the sides jostling for
European football.
West Ham are facing a defensive injury crisis ahead of the game, with
Allardyce likely to have just one fit centre-back as both Winston Reid and
James Collins are ruled out with hamstring injuries. Cheikhou Kouyate could
be called upon to provide defensive cover having recovered from an ankle
problem. Andy Carroll picked up an ankle injury in the defeat at Liverpool
and may not be risked whilst Diego Poyet and Doneil Henry are also missing
with unspecified knocks.
United will be missing midfielder Michael Carrick with a calf strain, but
that is their own injury worry, with both Radamel Falcao and Ashley Young
back in contention.
Opta stats
The Hammers have scored the most headed goals in the Premier League this
season (14).
Manchester United have won 11 and lost none of their last 12 Premier League
matches against West Ham.
Wayne Rooney has scored 10 goals in his last nine Premier League games
against West Ham.
Robin van Persie has scored in each of his last five Premier League games
against the Hammers, netting a total of six goals in that run.
Manchester United are unbeaten in their last six Premier league away games
(W3 D3).
Sam Allardyce's side have lost just one of their last 10 Premier League
games at the Boleyn Ground (W7 D2 L1).
Merson's prediction
Home win. I'm not convinced by Man United, I don't think they're playing
well enough, and sooner or later they'll lose again. They beat Leicester
last week, had three shots and scored three goals, but I just wouldn't be
shocked if West Ham won. Would you? It's a hard place to go. Even though the
Hammers were poor at Liverpool last week, I think they have got a really
good chance of winning this game.
Van Gaal is a good talker, that's why he's not getting a hard time, and to
be fair they're in the top four. That's what they were looking for this
season, a bit of stability - but this game is not a foregone conclusion.
PAUL PREDICTS: 2-1 (Sky Bet odds 11/1)
Betting
United are marginally odds-on at 10/11 to see off West Ham on Super Sunday,
with the Hammers up against odds of 14/5 to win and 13/5 to secure a draw.
Van Persie heads the first goalscorer market at 9/2, but is closely followed
by Falcao (5/1) and Rooney (6/1), while Carroll and Diafra Sahko are
considered the biggest threats from Allardyce's side at 7/1 apiece.
Jamie Redknapp is backing Carroll to break the deadlock in his Red Hot Tips
and is expecting a close encounter at Upton Park, going for a 1-1 draw at
11/2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham confirm record shirt sponsorship deal with Betway
Last Updated: 06/02/15 12:52pm
SSN
West Ham United have confirmed a new record shirt sponsorship deal with
online bookmakers Betway. Betway will take over from Alpari, who went into
liquidation last month, and they will have their logo on the club's shirts
starting on Sunday against Manchester United.
The previous deal was worth £3m but Sky sources understand the new contract
is worth significantly more. The club's official Twitter account posted: "We
are delighted to announce Betway as our new principal partner. Our new
shirts are ready for Sunday #COYI." Betway confirmed the deal would be a
'long-term partnership' with the East London club. Currency broker Alpari
closed in mid-January after turmoil in the currency markets and has been in
administration since.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
£20 MILLION RECORD DEAL FOR HAMMERS
By Sean Whetstone 6 Feb 2015 at 17:02
West Ham till I Die
West Ham's commercial department pulled off a master stroke by negotiating a
principal sponsor half way through the season for almost twice that of the
previous sponsor Alpari FX Trading who went into administration in mid
January.
Online betting company Betway has signed a three and a half year sponsorship
deal worth over £20m valuing each season at over £5.75m per season. This
dwarfs the former Alpari deal worth £9m over three years. It appears the
Hammers have actually profited from the sad demise of the foreign currency
trading company.
West Ham commercial director Felicity Croft who joined us Arsenal is thought
to have been instrumental in landing the deal.
The new logo will be worn on first team players shirts on Sunday against
Manchester United and the re-branding of the Boleyn ground will begin
including the renaming of the West stand to the Betway stand. The deal
includes the lucrative first two years at the Olympic Stadium.
While there has been some criticism from some fans about the white
background on the Betway logo for this season it is understood the logo will
be redesigned to fit with next year's Umbro shirt. The white patch is
thought to have been designed to cover up existing Adidas manufactured
shirts with the Alpari logo on them.
Karren Brady said: "We are pleased to welcome Betway to the Club as our new
principal sponsor, in what is our biggest-ever commercial deal. Like us,
Betway are an ambitious, forward-thinking company and the size of the
agreement reflects our status as one of the fastest growing brands in world
football. Betway join us at one of the most exciting periods in our history
and we will be working closely with them as we prepare to bid an emotional
farewell to our home of more than 110 years before moving into our stunning
new Stadium in 2016."
The Club say they will be making a further statement next week on how
supporters can update their 2014/15 replica shirts to include the Betway
logo. The official Club stores and the online store will also be stocking
the newly branded shirts.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
COLE - ALWAYS BELIEVE IN YOUR SOUL
By Iain Dale 6 Feb 2015 at 10:00
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Neil Clack
No doubt all this Sakho business will end up in the High Court, where a
combination of random has-been 1980s coaches like Peter Shreeves and Graham
Taylor, accompanied by Henry Winter of the Daily Telegraph, will convince
some geriatric judge with a rugby-background that Senegal would have won the
African Nations Cup hands down if Sakho had played in it. We'll have to pay
£30 million to Senegal in compensation, as well as the £20 million to
Bristol City who would have gone on to win the FA Cup had Sakho not come on
and scored against them.
Well, after sitting through last week's annual non-event at Anfield, things
have certainly been a lot more interesting off the pitch than on it over the
last seven days. It all began to look a bit ominous when the team was
announced at Liverpool. Many fans around me, in the Essex pub I frequent to
watch the away games live, asked the obvious question,"If we've got such a
cast-iron case, as Sam had claimed in the papers the day before, why isn't
Sakho on the team-sheet?"
Another thing I don't really get either is that, considering how many West
Ham fans all over the forums knew the FIFA rules, even before the match at
Bristol City, how come the club didn't?
Or did West Ham know the rules, but just decided to chance their luck?
'We're West Ham and we do what we want, so up-yours FIFA!'.
Now the Bristol City forums are baying for blood. And cash. "What about the
money from the replay at Upton Park that would have happened had Sakho not
come on and scored?",they rage. And if they'd won the replay, "what about
the money from the 5th round match at West Brom". The Bristol City board
probably feels obliged to react to fan sentiment and this could escalate,
ending up with Henry Winter, Bobby Gould and Ron Atkinson explaining to
Judge know-nothing about football how Bristol City would have gone on to win
back to back promotions to the Premier League if only Sakho had not come on.
The disappointment experienced by 13.5m Senegalese nationals will need to be
compensated too.
It does take an almost inconceivable level of institutional incompetence to
do this three times, and with a different spin on each. Omoyimni was cup
tied, Tevez was owned by a third party and Sakho was barred due to
international rules.
And what's this bit all about? From the Guardian, "The club, who omitted the
forward for Saturday's 2-0 Premier League defeat at Liverpool having been
made aware of the Fifa investigation, had been so unnerved by the
controversy that they had attempted to placate Senegal via an intermediary".
It's at times like this that we have to look on the lighter side of West
Ham, and the good news for all Carlton Cole fans like me is that he's still
here; his move to WBA having broken down at the last moment. For one
horrible hour or so on Monday night, even I really did start to consider
that an era may be coming to an end, but I should have known better – it was
just another one of those ruses from Carlton that he likes to tease us with
every now and then. Finally, as always, he stayed, this time due to
Tottenham Chairman David Levy putting a block on Adebayour's loan deal (Levy
can't seriously see us rival top 4 challengers, surely? – it looked more
like spitefulness over the Olympic Stadium if you ask me?).
Whatever, Carlton's here to stay. And we can now tick off the name of Mauro
Zarate on that long list of strikers that he's seen off in the last 9 years.
(see here for the definitive list – 4th paragraph down)
If Andy Carroll's previous injury history is anything to go, his reckless
Gazza-type lunge that only served to injure himself at Liverpool, will
probably keep him out for the rest of the season now, and with Sakho's
life-time ban from all football imminent, and Valencia's lack of interest
now that his head's been turned by Chelsea, it all leads to one thing –
Carlton rising once again to become our number 1 striker.
So once again, I urge you to get behind our cult-hero, the man who is
destined to wear the West Ham shirt forever and ever. Let's hear it sung
with gusto on Sunday, 'Cole – always believe in your soul'.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Man United boss Van Gaal putting a cork in traditional post-game tipple
makes West Ham's Allardyce whine
22:30, 6 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
Hammers manager was not invited for a drink and chat by opposite number at
Old Trafford in September but says HIS office door will be open on Sunday
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce claims managers such as Louis van Gaal are helping ruin one of
English football's great traditions. The West Ham boss fears the ritual of
managers sharing a private post-match drink and a chat will soon become a
thing of the past. Big Sam has not forgotten the lack of an invitation from
Van Gaal after Manchester United's 2-1 win over the Hammers in September. He
said at the time: "I was told it didn't happen any more, so I said 'Fair
enough' and left." But he has vowed to try to keep the tradition alive by
leaving his door open, despite being snubbed by Van Gaal. Allardyce, used to
sharing a glass of wine with former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, said: "I
did miss the red wine. My office door is always open, but the sad thing is
that lots of managers don't even bother any more, not just the foreign
managers, but the Brits as well. "It's another tradition gone out of the
window. I can understand it because there is so much media we have to do
after a game. It's a chance to talk, isn't it? It's not very long these
days, maybe five or 10 minutes, but it is a chance to chat that you don't
often get. "Managers don't get that much time, there is only our managers
association do at the end of the season where most of the managers turn up
and then a few regional meetings. "But I don't think somebody like Louis van
Gaal will turn up to one of those. He may do one day when he settles in. But
yes, it's a shame it's slipping away."
While there's little chance of a drink, Allardyce has a huge headache ahead
of United's visit because of injuries. Defenders Winston Reid, James
Collins, Guy Demel, Doneil Henry, midfielder Diego Poyet and striker Andy
Carroll were named as injury doubts by Allardyce who feared they may all
miss out. That could leave him with no option but to pick a makeshift
defence to face United's star-studded attack. Having failed to land a
defender on deadline day – Tottenham's Younes Kaboul and Everton's Sylvain
Distin were among those targeted – midfielders Cheikhou Kouyate or Alex Song
could be pressed into emergency centre-back duty. Allardyce said: "Someone
will now have to fit in at central defender and maybe stay there for a
while."
Carroll's ankle injury, meanwhile, could open the door for 10-goal top
scorer Diafra Sakho to return. He missed West Ham's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool
last Saturday due to the club vs country row between the Irons and Senegal.
The Hammers were fined £71,000 after playing Sakho, who scored the winner,
in the FA Cup victory against Bristol City after he was declared unfit for
Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Asked if Sakho will replace
Carroll if the Geordie is ruled out, Allardyce smiled and said: "You will
have to wait and see."
Even though his side are almost certain to be depleted, Allardyce is
nevertheless eyeing another big-name scalp. The Hammers manager added: "In
many ways, this is a bonus game, one where the expectations are not so
great. But we have done it twice this year at home, against Liverpool and
Man City, where nobody expected us to win that game, yet we won. "Can we do
another one at home against the big boys?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce admits West Ham face an injury crisis ahead of Manchester
United clash on Sunday
13:48, 6 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
Six of Allardyce's regular first team players are in line to miss the clash
at Upton Park after missing out on transfer targets on deadline day
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has a huge injury crisis on his hands ahead of West Ham's
clash with Manchester United. Allardyce revealed Winston Reid, James
Collins, Guy Demel, Andy Carroll, Doneil Henry and Diego Poyet could all
miss Sunday's Upton Park showdown. The Hammers boss said: "It's obviously
particularly worrying at the moment. I've got that many players injured I
brought my list in to read out. "Reid, Collins, Demel, Henry, Poyet and
Carroll lie in our medical room at the moment so we are not so sure how many
of those are going to make Sundays game. "Could they all be out?
Definitely." But with trips to Southampton in the league and West Brom in
the FA Cup to come next week after they host United Allardyce insists he
won't gamble on any player not 100 per cent fit. He said: "With such a big
week as well, three games in the week there will be very few risks taken on
players unless they are 100 per cent fit. "If I risk anyone on Sunday, that
may increase the length of the injury so we will go to battle with what we
have got, but players who are 100 per cent fit on Sunday, and hopefully some
of these lads will get fit next week and into the week after."
Allardyce's biggest headache could be fielding a defence against Louis Van
Gaal's men. And his concerns about the fitness of Reid, Collins, Demel and
Canadian January signing Henry explain why he was so desperate to try and
bring in a central defender on deadline day.
Tottenham's Younes Kaboul and Everton's Sylvain Distin were among the
defenders Allardyce's tried to sign before the window slammed shut on
Monday. He said: "That's why we went all out from the game finishing against
Liverpool to try and secure a central defender to fill that gap that was
going to be left with the injuries but unfortunately however hard we tried
in terms of a loan deal we could not pull it off. "Everybody who wanted to
come wanted a permanent deal and we weren't in a position to do a permanent
deal so unfortunately we didn't get anyone in. "That is particularly
worrying as someone will have to fill in as a central defender and stay
there perhaps and hopefully no other players pick up any more injuries at
this stage."
Striker Diafra Sakho is back in contention after being left out of the 2-0
defeat at Liverpool last week due to the club v country row between West Ham
and Senegal. Allardyce stayed tight-lipped on FIFA's decision to fine the
Hammers £71,000 for playing him in last month's FA Cup tie against Bristol
City, in which he scored the winner, just 18 days after he was ruled out of
the Africa Cup of Nations with a back injury. Asked if he would start
against Manchester United if Carroll was ruled out, Allardyce smiled: "You
have to wait and see."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Biggest deal in Hammers history
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Claret and Hugh can reveal that West Ham United have landed the biggest
financial sponsorship deal in it's 120 year history. Betway have been
announced as principle sponsors of West Ham this morning in a long term deal
lasting three and a half years. The sponsorship deal is worth just over £20m
over three and a half years making each season worth around £5.75m. This
dwarfs the previous deal with Alpari worth £9m deal over three years. It
understood that Chairman David Sullivan, along with Managing Director Angus
Kinear and Commercial Director Felicity Croft trashed out the record deal
with Betway. The Betway logo will be worn on Hammers shirts this Sunday
against Manchester United and the West stand will be renamed the Betway
stand as part of the deal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan future under review
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 6, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham look ready to allow Kevin Nolan to move on from the club in the
summer. The Irons captain hits his 33rd birthday in June and with a year
left on the five year deal he signed in 2011 the club are ready to allow him
a move if they receive a suitable offer.
Nolan's position in the team has been the subject of long term controversy
but at 33 the club believe this is the time to reward his loyalty by
allowing him the chance of making a lucrative move if they receive the right
offer.
Nolan arrived from Newcastle on a five year deal worth a reported £50,000 a
week which over five years would have grossed him £12 million. The transfer
fee involved was £4 million. However, a well placed Hammers source said: "We
are looking to the future and will be looking to sign young energetic
players. "Kevin has been a great player for the club but the summer will be
a critical time for various members of the squad – nothing is for ever!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Saturday, February 7
Friday, February 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th February 2015
View on the Visitors - Man Utd
WHUFC.com
Stretford End Season Ticket Holder Aidan Edwards gives us the lowdown on
Sunday's visitors
05.02.2015
What have you made of Manchester United's season so far?
It has been a pretty mixed season. We started poorly with a squad lacking in
confidence, taking just two points from the first three games against
Swansea, Sunderland and Burnley. Overall, it has been another transitional
season for United, with a new manager who has a particular way of playing.
There has been a big change in personnel since Louis van Gaal took over
eight months ago. As well as six high profile summer signings, van Gaal has
overseen the departures of nineteen players.
United have been hampered with injuries, which has led to a number of
players making the step up from the under 21s, including James Wilson, Tyler
Blackett and Paddy McNair. Additional positives are that United currently
find themselves in third place, having lost just one of the last sixteen
games. Whilst the football hasn't been as free flowing as we have enjoyed in
the past, the team is grinding out great results, playing with much more
confidence and belief.
Who in particular has been playing well for United?
David de Gea, obviously. He has made several crucial saves this season and
has single handedly won games for us. He is a big reason why we are where
they are in the league. At just 24 years old, it is frightening that he is
yet to reach his peak as a goalkeeper and so it is important with his
contract expiring in the summer of 2016 that we sign him on a long term
deal.
Daley Blind has also been quietly impressive and has settled quickly at
United. He is an intelligent footballer who builds up all the attacks whilst
offering protection to the defence, bringing confidence and calmness. Blind
is also versatile, demonstrating the ability to perform in a number of
positions which has been useful this season considering the number of
injuries we have suffered.
What have you made of West Ham more generally this season?
I've been very impressed with West Ham this season, they've done very well.
Particularly the resurgence of Stewart Downing. I think Sam Allardyce has
done a good job, especially in the transfer window, all his signings have
done well. Alex Song was a very shrewd bit of business and I hope they keep
hold of him.
Considering the pressure Allardyce was under last season, to have turned it
round so quickly is a great achievement. He deserves all the credit for
adopting a more positive, fluid approach and it's paid off, I think they
deserve to be where they are in the league.
What is your prediction for Sunday's score?
I'll go positive and say 2-1 Man United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DEADLINE DUD
By Bianca Westwood 5 Feb 2015 at 09:31
West ham till I Die
It wasn't the best deadline day was it? I wasn't expecting monumental things
but it ended up being somewhat of a nonevent. I'm just pleased we weren't
subjected to witnessing the prancing and profane fools and their sex toys
gurning behind my poor, frozen Sky colleagues. Enough was enough on that
score!
As far as West Ham's transfer activities go it was one big fat failure but
it was certainly not for the want of trying. It appears the chairmen and
their minions worked their socks off trying to garner some interest and get
those all-important signatures on the dotted line but as we all know January
is a bit of a bitch and you can't always get what you want. I'm not going to
lose too much sleep over Darren Fletcher or Bafetimbi Gomis if I'm honest.
What I explicitly didn't want was Emmanuel Adebayor and luckily I didn't get
what I didn't want…if that makes sense. The ex Arsenal & Tottenham striker
does talk a good game and definitely makes an impressive initial impact but
he has failed to deliver in recent seasons, he's another big target man that
we'd probably end up lumping the ball towards and furthermore did I mention
he talks a lot? And not in a good way. He courts far too much controversy
for my liking and West Ham have a superb dressing room at the moment. We
don't need anyone messing with that harmony thanks. Veto all you like Mr
Levy. You can keep him…and Kaboul. At least it meant that Winston didn't go
the other way. That would have ruffled a few claret and blue feathers. Too
many of our finest have left the club for lily white pastures. I say never
again! My step dad reminded me recently of the time as a (clearly quite
aggressive) little girl, I leaned over the wall above the tunnel at Upton
Park and shouted "JUDAS!" at Paul Allen as he left the field. He even looked
at me quite apologetically. I obviously wasn't impressed with treachery then
and nothing has changed since! Leave us for WHL at your peril!
Reid remaining with us was the biggest plus for me. In the land of the blind
the one-eyed man is king and we'd struggle hard without him with a fully fit
squad, let alone with a defensive injury list as long as your arm. He's a
terrific player and has been brilliant for us this season. He's really come
into his own and has developed into a solid, quality defender. It's a
temporary stay of execution I wager but I'd be confident that his departure
in the summer will give us a lot more time over the next few months to
identify a more adequate replacement.
I felt for Carlton Cole who almost got caught up in a Peter Odemwingie type
scenario. He's been an able and loyal servant for us over the years. Not
hugely prolific but like Bobby Zamora before him some of his goals were
absolutely instrumental in our limited success. It must be tough for him to
be bandied about as he has been lately. Released last season then
humiliatingly dragged back to Chadwell Heath in the no striker era, he
returned with no complaints and a positive attitude, used sparingly this
term (which he no doubt understands), then touted around to all-comers only
to have the plug pulled on a decent move to West Brom in the final hour.
Sucks to be him! I don't think Carlton will be quite as smiley and good
egg-ish as he was the last time round. Nor should he be. As Alan Curbishley
so succinctly put it, sometimes the 'moral situation' is forgotten. Will
Cole get a contract in the summer as beneficial as the one Pulis was
offering? I doubt it. This period of his working life is crucial. He's in
the twilight of his career and might struggle to get a Premier League deal
at all. Who owes what to whom here? Yes he's gotten as much as he's given at
West Ham, both financially and professionally so there's an argument to say
that we don't owe him anything. Yet it's a shame that he now has to see out
his time with us almost certainly on the bench and undoubtedly at a club
where he knows he's no longer wanted. He's a superb professional and will
probably conduct himself in the right way and with minimal fuss but it still
stinks. Am I wrong here? I know it may be 'just business'. I love this club
with every fibre of my being. I support our team, our manager and our board
to the hilt, and I'm the first one who would prioritise our interests, but a
modicum of decency towards one of our most devoted employees would have been
nice. Stay classy West Ham!
Now we face a tumultuous few weeks with some tough fixtures and some bare
bones at the back. At least the FIFA rap was relatively lenient. Expulsion
from the FA cup would have been a categorical disaster. After the Tevez
legal saga we didn't need that kind of negativity hanging over us again. I'm
sensing that the dip in league form will continue for the foreseeable so I'm
pinning my meagre hopes to the Challenge Cup mast. I still have the glint of
silverware in my eye! I'm certainly not as buoyant as I was a few weeks ago
but as we all know only too well, the life of a Hammers fan is defined by
polarities. We lurch from pleasure to pain, despair to euphoria, devastation
to success…all in the blink of an eye. We've just got to roll with it.
Come on you Irons!!
B x
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE BOLEYN GROUND
By Sean Whetstone 5 Feb 2015 at 16:00
West Ham till I Die
Guest post by Nigel Kahn
On Tuesday evening I attended a public consultation exhibition in regards to
the Boleyn Ground redevelopment. Held in the Church hall across the road
from the West Ham Supporters club in Castle Street we were shown various
plans outlining the submitted plans by architects on behalf of the
developers, Galliard group, present on the night were members of the
architectural team, developers and the company tasked with Marketing the
development, who were able to answer any questions that you may care to
answer.
Perhaps as a sure sign that I am finally coming to terms with the move was
in a way enlightening and informative. For all the pictures that you see the
best way to get a better understanding of what is being proposed was the
scale model that was in the centre of the Hall, showing in 3d the size of
the buildings and layout of the roads and seeing how it all sits within what
is currently sitting there.
The centre of attraction for West Ham fans is that through the middle of the
development will be a Piazza, not a word I ever thought I'd see in regards
Upton Park. The entrance to the Piazza will be roughly where the John Lyall
Gates are and will run all the way through to Castle Street. Sitting in the
exact spot of where the current pitch centre spot is will be a Statue that
will be called 'The Kick Off' It is likely to be a football or could be two
players actually kicking off. Also dotted along this central route will be
other statues of Iron legends with special dates in the clubs history marked
out among the paving.
They also plan to put lights in the floor that light up at evening the
original touchlines of the pitch, which from the Piazza may not look special
but if viewed from above could be a nice touch. Personally I would like to
have seen the pitch area being left completely clear of buildings, two
blocks are proposed one to the north and one to the south of the centre
circle each unit housing 44 apartments. So with the removal of 88 of the
flats or just 10% of the development, the pitch could have been kept as a
park, a place for kids to play football and possibly dream the dreams we all
did as kids of being on the pitch playing.
The plan is to build around 880 apartments, flats & houses, with 6%
allocated as shared ownership. Underground car parking will be available,
only for 350 cars though, but amazingly the plan is for over 1,200 bicycle
bays. Quite how they plan to restrict car ownership amongst the residents
remains to be seen but I suppose that is down to those that live on and
around the development. Castle street is being re-opened up all the way from
Green Street to Priory Road, as it used to be for many years until the
Boleyn ground was built up.
Shops will be part of the Development as well but no major chain will be
allowed to take a unit to try and protect Queens Road Market. The idea, as
explained to me, is that the shops should complement the market not detract
or take customers away.A nursery, teacher training building and a new
Library to replace the existing one further down the road are all things
considered, it looks impressive, even to me who believes that this
development should never have seen the light of day.
The problem with the plans is that they never live up to the original look,
and never has it seemed take into consideration the local residents who will
live on the edge. Most of the handful of people in the hall at the time I
was there were local residents, and those I heard were not impressed with
the view. Parking as I highlighted was one concern, especially the lack of
it, as from their point of view they will only find somewhere else to park
rather than not have a car. Considering the impact of match day traffic was
one of the many reasons for not expanding the Boleyn, it seems with the club
moving that may be an issue that locals may have to still face, except
rather than just 24 days of the year, now 365 days.
Two other Reasons for the non-expansion of the Boleyn ground, or rather the
East stand, were the Bus Garage and that any new stand would block the light
of the flats behind it. As we know the bus garage shut years ago so that
reason has gone, and as for the light problem, it is proposed that two
blocks of flats will be built along Priory Road in the space vacated by the
East Stand, these blocks will be eleven stories high, the flats behind are
only nine, the current East Stand is according to the developer's own plans
four to six. Make of that what you will but I think it does raise questions
of the way the club gave out information as to why they needed to move.
As someone who still believes the move is wrong, for the fans and the club,
seeing what it will become will take a lot of getting used to, looking at it
as a West Ham fan, the fact the site will still reflect a little of the
ground that was once there for 112 years was a positive, as someone who was
born and brought up in the area, this development does nothing for the local
community.
Shared ownership is not affordable housing, 95% of the development will be
privately owned, with the prices these flats will command, looking at other
local developments, they will be out of reach of the majority of young
people living in the area, and when rented out the rent rates locally are
crippling. As a comparison, in a Canning Town new development two bed
apartments are £1,500 a month. This of course is out of the clubs hands and
is more a social problem than a football problem, but it still leaves a bad
taste in the mouth of many. Outside the Hall, local action group the friends
of Queens market were leafleting, highlighted the lack of affordable housing
in the area and protesting against another piece of local land being taken
away and used for profit rather than the community the local council claims
it serves. They have a website for information and a petition which you can
sign, go to www.friendsofqueensmarket.org.uk for more information.
As the end of the Boleyn Ground gets nearer I'm sure more will come out into
the public domain in regards the development and that in turn may highlight
some of the information the club used to persuade fans that we had no choice
to move. Then and only then will we know the truth.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Diafra Sakho row may see Bristol City protest FIFA NOT kicking
them out of FA Cup
22:30, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
League One club "disappointed and considering its options" after Hammers are
only fined for playing Senegal striker during Africa Cup of Nations
The Mirror
West Ham face a fresh FA Cup battle with Bristol City after FIFA's decision
not to kick the Irons out of the competition. The League One club are
"considering" whether to protest after world football's governing body
contracted their own rules by only fining the Irons £71,000 for fielding
striker Diafra Sakho at Ashton Gate last month. Sakho pulled out of
Senegal's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations with a back injury but scored
the winner for West Ham 18 days later in their FA Cup Fourth Round tie to
knock City out. If FIFA had applied their rules, City would have been
reinstated and West Ham - set to play West Brom in the fifth round next
Saturday - dumped out.
A statement from the Robins said: "The club is disappointed with the penalty
handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its
options."
FIFA launched an investigation after Senegal angrily complained about
Sakho's FA Cup appearance. The FIFA rules state that a player cannot play
for his club if he is meant to be on international duty. Article 5 reads: "A
player who has been called up by his association for one of its
representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant
association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered
during the period for which he has been released or should have been
released."
Article 6.2 adds: "If a club refuses to release a player or neglects to do
so despite the provisions of this annexe, the Fifa Players' Status Committee
shall furthermore request the association to which the club belongs to
declare any match(es) in which the player took part to have been lost by the
club concerned. "Any match contested according to the cup system shall be
regarded as having been won by the opposing team, irrespective of the
score."
It was angry Senegal - furious that Sakho played for West Ham 48 hours after
they were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations - who complained to FIFA.
West Ham insisted Sakho had a back injury that prevented him from flying and
claim he was driven to Ashton Gate in a limousine for the FA Cup tie. The
east Londoners are not trying to draw a line under the affair. A Hammers'
statement said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will
now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on
Sunday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll has a VERY surprising taste in pets
19:30, 5 February 2015 By Richard Innes
Until we saw this video, we struggled to believe the big centre-forward
ACTUALLY had these dogs at home
The Mirror
On the football pitch, Andy Carroll is a beast of a man. The powerful West
Ham No9 doesn't just head a football better than any other living human
being. He's an intimidating weapon of a footballer, regularly used to bully
opposition defences.
Even off the pitch, he looks like a real man's man. 6ft 4ins tall, hairy,
bearded and a proud Geordie… you could imagine him working as miner,
bricklayer or something equally masculine.
So, what sort of dog do you think this old-fashioned "bloke" goes home to? A
big Alsatian? A Staff? Maybe a loveable Labrador?
Nope. Andy goes home to… well, we're not sure exactly what breed his dogs
are. Take a look at the video and see for yourself. One looks a bit like a
chihuahua, but let's just say they are the type of canines sometimes found
in the handbags of rich girls in California.
You might think Carroll would claim the dogs belong to his other half,
former TOWIE star Billi Mucklow. But no, Andy is so smitten with the tiny
creatures, they're all over his Instagram page - today, he even posted the
video above, of them trying to escape their pen.
Anyone else notice the dog's double bed in the background?
Well, in fairness to Andy, we guess they are pretty cute. But we would still
prefer to see him with some lions…
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will reignite their interest in QPR defender Steven Caulker if
Rangers get relegated
18:25, 5 February 2015 By James Nursey
The Hammers attempted to sign the former Cardiff centre-half on deadline
day, but were scuppered by Hoops chairman Tony Fernandes
The Mirror
West Ham will return for Steven Caulker if QPR go down. MirrorSport can
reveal the Hammers moved for Rangers' centre-back Caulker on deadline day to
bolster their defence. Loftus Road chairman Tony Fernandes snubbed their
interest despite initial talks. But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce and chairman
David Sullivan intend to keep Caulker on their radar as they will lose
Winston Reid this summer. Caulker, a 6ft 3in former Spurs stopper, went down
with Cardiff last season but still earned a summer move back to the Premier
League. And Caulker will want to stay in the top-flight again should
19th-placed QPR be relegated. West Ham also have an interest in Genk's
Senegalese centre-back Kara Mbodj, who is likely to be sold this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FIFA/Sakho outcome will suit FA
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Football Association will have breathed a collective sigh of relief
after Fifa hit the Hammers with just a small fine yesterday.
For most of those assessing the situation privately believe the Irons could
easily have been kicked out of the competition. Fifa regulations said as
much so the decision to fine the club just £71k was seen as an almighty let
off by most observers. And given that we had earned £90k from the win over
Bristol City, the club remains in profit from the competition. The FA are
highly unlikely to entertain appeals after being kept in touch with
developments at Fifa throughout yesterday. Any punishment involving our
expulsion would have thrown their competition into chaos and a source close
to the English ruling body said: "The fine suits everybody." West Ham's near
silence on the matter indeed speaks volumes – we had a bit of a lucky get
off.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
East stand could have been redeveloped
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
New planning documents submitted by the Galliard group last week reveal that
the Boleyn Ground East stand could have been redeveloped to make it a 40,000
seat stadium without moving home to the Olympic Stadium.
The Hammers were originally granted planning permission to redevelop the
East stand back in 1999 when planning permission as granted to redevelop the
West Stand. Planning was granted again in 2006 when new plans were submitted
which can be seen above. This new East stand would of taken the Boleyn
Ground capacity to 40,356. This permission expired after three years before
the present owners took charge of the club.
Arguments given during the first bid for the Olympic Stadium against
reviving the East Stand redevelopment were the close proximity of the Upton
Park Bus Garage and that any new East stand would block the light of the
flats behind it. Upton Park bus garage was shut down a few years ago after
the largest bus garage in London was built close to West Ham underground
station so that reason has gone.
As for the light problem, Galliard now propose that two blocks of high rise
flats will be built along Priory Road in the space vacated by the East
Stand, these blocks will be eleven stories high while the existing flats
behind are only nine stories, the current East Stand is according to the
developer is between 4-6 stories. It does raise the question whether the
redevelopment of the East Stand was more viable than we were led to believe
before our bid for the Olympic stadium.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammer joins St Mirren
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham youngster Kieran Sadlier has joined St Mirren until the end of the
season, following his release by the Hammers earlier this week.
The 20-year-old midfielder who is also a republic of Ireland Under-21
international has agreed a contract until the end of the season having
failed to make the breakthrough at West Ham's Academy. Speaking to the St
Mirren club website manager Gary Teale "Kieran has had a good development at
West Ham and also being involved with the Irish Under-21 team. He was very
keen to come up to Scotland when I spoke to him before the transfer window
closed and negotiated his release from West Ham to come up to St Mirren. He
showed great enthusiasm and ambition that he wanted to play first-team
football – hopefully he will be of great benefit to ourselves going
forward."
Sadlier took to Twitter to thank well-wishers following his exit from West
Ham saying "I'd like to say thanks to my team mates, the staff and all the
fans for the amazing 10 years I've spent at West Ham! End of an era! I can't
wait to get started with St Mirren up in Scotland! A new chapter in my
life!And thanks to both sets of fans for the messages"
Eighties Hammers Hero Frank McAvennie spend five years at St Mirren playing
135 matches and scoring 48 goals before joining West Ham in 1985.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Locals want Boleyn Ground to become a park
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Local resident group Friends of Queens Market have called on Newham Council
to ensure all the flats on being built on the Boleyn Ground are developed as
social housing units. And they have also called for the Boleyn Ground
football pitch to become a public park.
The stadium will be demolished in 2016 after 112 of use by West Ham when we
move to the Olympic Stadium. Property developers Galliard purchased the
site and have put in a planning application to Newham Council to build a
"village" of 838 homes.
They are proposing only 51 flats are 'shared ownership' but for the majority
of residents in Newham believe they will cost too much. Galliard provide
homes at the luxury end of the market. In their recent development in
Canning Town, the price of a 2 bedroom flat starting at £435,000 and a 2
bedroom apartment penthouse reaching £610,000.
If the 838 flats reach anything close to the £435,000 price tag of the
Canning town apartments this could raise over £350 million for the Galliard
group in property sales. The Friends claim The Boleyn Ground will be another
private development in Newham that local residents can't afford.
On page 40 of the planning application Galliard claims:"It would not be
viable to deliver any affordable housing as part of this scheme."
Following a competitive bidding process, West Ham United selected Galliard
Group as the purchaser for the site ahead of a number of other national and
international companies.
The Club was impressed with Galliard Group's links to the local community
and their commitment to honouring the history of the Hammers at the Boleyn
Ground as part of their proposed development.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons wait and see 'injury crisis'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Irons fans are set to discover whether the "injury crisis" involving five
players is as serious as they have been led to believe over the next couple
of weeks. Manager Sam Allardyce described the situation as a crisis
immediately after the Liverpool defeat in which James Collins and Winston
Reid picked up hamstring niggles. Carl Jenkinson and James Tomkins both
missed the game but are expected to return to the side against Manchester
United on Sunday. Chiek Kouyate is reportedly carrying a calf strain and
training ground sources claim Collins may be more likely than Reid to
recover for the game. Andy Carroll, meanwhile is expected to be out for a
fortnight with an ankle problem.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parkesy: "We need the deadly duo against United"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
Phil Parkes has urged manager Sam Allardyce to return the deadly duo –
Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia to the top of the Irons attack on Sunday. He
believes Manchester United is a match made for the pace and mobility of the
pair declaring: "Their defence could really struggle against those two."
United have been getting some results and it's always a tough game but Sak
and Valencia bring so much to the party and have more to unsettle United
than most. Speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh he said: "We've only beaten
Leicester, Hull and Bristol City in our last 11 games and this would be a
good game to kick start things again but I think it will need those two in
the team if we are to manage it. "I was at my old club QPR for the recent
visit of United and I thought their defence was absolutely awful – Diafra
and Enner could really move it about . I just hope that's the way Sam
Allardyce decides to play it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Stretford End Season Ticket Holder Aidan Edwards gives us the lowdown on
Sunday's visitors
05.02.2015
What have you made of Manchester United's season so far?
It has been a pretty mixed season. We started poorly with a squad lacking in
confidence, taking just two points from the first three games against
Swansea, Sunderland and Burnley. Overall, it has been another transitional
season for United, with a new manager who has a particular way of playing.
There has been a big change in personnel since Louis van Gaal took over
eight months ago. As well as six high profile summer signings, van Gaal has
overseen the departures of nineteen players.
United have been hampered with injuries, which has led to a number of
players making the step up from the under 21s, including James Wilson, Tyler
Blackett and Paddy McNair. Additional positives are that United currently
find themselves in third place, having lost just one of the last sixteen
games. Whilst the football hasn't been as free flowing as we have enjoyed in
the past, the team is grinding out great results, playing with much more
confidence and belief.
Who in particular has been playing well for United?
David de Gea, obviously. He has made several crucial saves this season and
has single handedly won games for us. He is a big reason why we are where
they are in the league. At just 24 years old, it is frightening that he is
yet to reach his peak as a goalkeeper and so it is important with his
contract expiring in the summer of 2016 that we sign him on a long term
deal.
Daley Blind has also been quietly impressive and has settled quickly at
United. He is an intelligent footballer who builds up all the attacks whilst
offering protection to the defence, bringing confidence and calmness. Blind
is also versatile, demonstrating the ability to perform in a number of
positions which has been useful this season considering the number of
injuries we have suffered.
What have you made of West Ham more generally this season?
I've been very impressed with West Ham this season, they've done very well.
Particularly the resurgence of Stewart Downing. I think Sam Allardyce has
done a good job, especially in the transfer window, all his signings have
done well. Alex Song was a very shrewd bit of business and I hope they keep
hold of him.
Considering the pressure Allardyce was under last season, to have turned it
round so quickly is a great achievement. He deserves all the credit for
adopting a more positive, fluid approach and it's paid off, I think they
deserve to be where they are in the league.
What is your prediction for Sunday's score?
I'll go positive and say 2-1 Man United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DEADLINE DUD
By Bianca Westwood 5 Feb 2015 at 09:31
West ham till I Die
It wasn't the best deadline day was it? I wasn't expecting monumental things
but it ended up being somewhat of a nonevent. I'm just pleased we weren't
subjected to witnessing the prancing and profane fools and their sex toys
gurning behind my poor, frozen Sky colleagues. Enough was enough on that
score!
As far as West Ham's transfer activities go it was one big fat failure but
it was certainly not for the want of trying. It appears the chairmen and
their minions worked their socks off trying to garner some interest and get
those all-important signatures on the dotted line but as we all know January
is a bit of a bitch and you can't always get what you want. I'm not going to
lose too much sleep over Darren Fletcher or Bafetimbi Gomis if I'm honest.
What I explicitly didn't want was Emmanuel Adebayor and luckily I didn't get
what I didn't want…if that makes sense. The ex Arsenal & Tottenham striker
does talk a good game and definitely makes an impressive initial impact but
he has failed to deliver in recent seasons, he's another big target man that
we'd probably end up lumping the ball towards and furthermore did I mention
he talks a lot? And not in a good way. He courts far too much controversy
for my liking and West Ham have a superb dressing room at the moment. We
don't need anyone messing with that harmony thanks. Veto all you like Mr
Levy. You can keep him…and Kaboul. At least it meant that Winston didn't go
the other way. That would have ruffled a few claret and blue feathers. Too
many of our finest have left the club for lily white pastures. I say never
again! My step dad reminded me recently of the time as a (clearly quite
aggressive) little girl, I leaned over the wall above the tunnel at Upton
Park and shouted "JUDAS!" at Paul Allen as he left the field. He even looked
at me quite apologetically. I obviously wasn't impressed with treachery then
and nothing has changed since! Leave us for WHL at your peril!
Reid remaining with us was the biggest plus for me. In the land of the blind
the one-eyed man is king and we'd struggle hard without him with a fully fit
squad, let alone with a defensive injury list as long as your arm. He's a
terrific player and has been brilliant for us this season. He's really come
into his own and has developed into a solid, quality defender. It's a
temporary stay of execution I wager but I'd be confident that his departure
in the summer will give us a lot more time over the next few months to
identify a more adequate replacement.
I felt for Carlton Cole who almost got caught up in a Peter Odemwingie type
scenario. He's been an able and loyal servant for us over the years. Not
hugely prolific but like Bobby Zamora before him some of his goals were
absolutely instrumental in our limited success. It must be tough for him to
be bandied about as he has been lately. Released last season then
humiliatingly dragged back to Chadwell Heath in the no striker era, he
returned with no complaints and a positive attitude, used sparingly this
term (which he no doubt understands), then touted around to all-comers only
to have the plug pulled on a decent move to West Brom in the final hour.
Sucks to be him! I don't think Carlton will be quite as smiley and good
egg-ish as he was the last time round. Nor should he be. As Alan Curbishley
so succinctly put it, sometimes the 'moral situation' is forgotten. Will
Cole get a contract in the summer as beneficial as the one Pulis was
offering? I doubt it. This period of his working life is crucial. He's in
the twilight of his career and might struggle to get a Premier League deal
at all. Who owes what to whom here? Yes he's gotten as much as he's given at
West Ham, both financially and professionally so there's an argument to say
that we don't owe him anything. Yet it's a shame that he now has to see out
his time with us almost certainly on the bench and undoubtedly at a club
where he knows he's no longer wanted. He's a superb professional and will
probably conduct himself in the right way and with minimal fuss but it still
stinks. Am I wrong here? I know it may be 'just business'. I love this club
with every fibre of my being. I support our team, our manager and our board
to the hilt, and I'm the first one who would prioritise our interests, but a
modicum of decency towards one of our most devoted employees would have been
nice. Stay classy West Ham!
Now we face a tumultuous few weeks with some tough fixtures and some bare
bones at the back. At least the FIFA rap was relatively lenient. Expulsion
from the FA cup would have been a categorical disaster. After the Tevez
legal saga we didn't need that kind of negativity hanging over us again. I'm
sensing that the dip in league form will continue for the foreseeable so I'm
pinning my meagre hopes to the Challenge Cup mast. I still have the glint of
silverware in my eye! I'm certainly not as buoyant as I was a few weeks ago
but as we all know only too well, the life of a Hammers fan is defined by
polarities. We lurch from pleasure to pain, despair to euphoria, devastation
to success…all in the blink of an eye. We've just got to roll with it.
Come on you Irons!!
B x
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE REDEVELOPMENT OF THE BOLEYN GROUND
By Sean Whetstone 5 Feb 2015 at 16:00
West Ham till I Die
Guest post by Nigel Kahn
On Tuesday evening I attended a public consultation exhibition in regards to
the Boleyn Ground redevelopment. Held in the Church hall across the road
from the West Ham Supporters club in Castle Street we were shown various
plans outlining the submitted plans by architects on behalf of the
developers, Galliard group, present on the night were members of the
architectural team, developers and the company tasked with Marketing the
development, who were able to answer any questions that you may care to
answer.
Perhaps as a sure sign that I am finally coming to terms with the move was
in a way enlightening and informative. For all the pictures that you see the
best way to get a better understanding of what is being proposed was the
scale model that was in the centre of the Hall, showing in 3d the size of
the buildings and layout of the roads and seeing how it all sits within what
is currently sitting there.
The centre of attraction for West Ham fans is that through the middle of the
development will be a Piazza, not a word I ever thought I'd see in regards
Upton Park. The entrance to the Piazza will be roughly where the John Lyall
Gates are and will run all the way through to Castle Street. Sitting in the
exact spot of where the current pitch centre spot is will be a Statue that
will be called 'The Kick Off' It is likely to be a football or could be two
players actually kicking off. Also dotted along this central route will be
other statues of Iron legends with special dates in the clubs history marked
out among the paving.
They also plan to put lights in the floor that light up at evening the
original touchlines of the pitch, which from the Piazza may not look special
but if viewed from above could be a nice touch. Personally I would like to
have seen the pitch area being left completely clear of buildings, two
blocks are proposed one to the north and one to the south of the centre
circle each unit housing 44 apartments. So with the removal of 88 of the
flats or just 10% of the development, the pitch could have been kept as a
park, a place for kids to play football and possibly dream the dreams we all
did as kids of being on the pitch playing.
The plan is to build around 880 apartments, flats & houses, with 6%
allocated as shared ownership. Underground car parking will be available,
only for 350 cars though, but amazingly the plan is for over 1,200 bicycle
bays. Quite how they plan to restrict car ownership amongst the residents
remains to be seen but I suppose that is down to those that live on and
around the development. Castle street is being re-opened up all the way from
Green Street to Priory Road, as it used to be for many years until the
Boleyn ground was built up.
Shops will be part of the Development as well but no major chain will be
allowed to take a unit to try and protect Queens Road Market. The idea, as
explained to me, is that the shops should complement the market not detract
or take customers away.A nursery, teacher training building and a new
Library to replace the existing one further down the road are all things
considered, it looks impressive, even to me who believes that this
development should never have seen the light of day.
The problem with the plans is that they never live up to the original look,
and never has it seemed take into consideration the local residents who will
live on the edge. Most of the handful of people in the hall at the time I
was there were local residents, and those I heard were not impressed with
the view. Parking as I highlighted was one concern, especially the lack of
it, as from their point of view they will only find somewhere else to park
rather than not have a car. Considering the impact of match day traffic was
one of the many reasons for not expanding the Boleyn, it seems with the club
moving that may be an issue that locals may have to still face, except
rather than just 24 days of the year, now 365 days.
Two other Reasons for the non-expansion of the Boleyn ground, or rather the
East stand, were the Bus Garage and that any new stand would block the light
of the flats behind it. As we know the bus garage shut years ago so that
reason has gone, and as for the light problem, it is proposed that two
blocks of flats will be built along Priory Road in the space vacated by the
East Stand, these blocks will be eleven stories high, the flats behind are
only nine, the current East Stand is according to the developer's own plans
four to six. Make of that what you will but I think it does raise questions
of the way the club gave out information as to why they needed to move.
As someone who still believes the move is wrong, for the fans and the club,
seeing what it will become will take a lot of getting used to, looking at it
as a West Ham fan, the fact the site will still reflect a little of the
ground that was once there for 112 years was a positive, as someone who was
born and brought up in the area, this development does nothing for the local
community.
Shared ownership is not affordable housing, 95% of the development will be
privately owned, with the prices these flats will command, looking at other
local developments, they will be out of reach of the majority of young
people living in the area, and when rented out the rent rates locally are
crippling. As a comparison, in a Canning Town new development two bed
apartments are £1,500 a month. This of course is out of the clubs hands and
is more a social problem than a football problem, but it still leaves a bad
taste in the mouth of many. Outside the Hall, local action group the friends
of Queens market were leafleting, highlighted the lack of affordable housing
in the area and protesting against another piece of local land being taken
away and used for profit rather than the community the local council claims
it serves. They have a website for information and a petition which you can
sign, go to www.friendsofqueensmarket.org.uk for more information.
As the end of the Boleyn Ground gets nearer I'm sure more will come out into
the public domain in regards the development and that in turn may highlight
some of the information the club used to persuade fans that we had no choice
to move. Then and only then will we know the truth.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Diafra Sakho row may see Bristol City protest FIFA NOT kicking
them out of FA Cup
22:30, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
League One club "disappointed and considering its options" after Hammers are
only fined for playing Senegal striker during Africa Cup of Nations
The Mirror
West Ham face a fresh FA Cup battle with Bristol City after FIFA's decision
not to kick the Irons out of the competition. The League One club are
"considering" whether to protest after world football's governing body
contracted their own rules by only fining the Irons £71,000 for fielding
striker Diafra Sakho at Ashton Gate last month. Sakho pulled out of
Senegal's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations with a back injury but scored
the winner for West Ham 18 days later in their FA Cup Fourth Round tie to
knock City out. If FIFA had applied their rules, City would have been
reinstated and West Ham - set to play West Brom in the fifth round next
Saturday - dumped out.
A statement from the Robins said: "The club is disappointed with the penalty
handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its
options."
FIFA launched an investigation after Senegal angrily complained about
Sakho's FA Cup appearance. The FIFA rules state that a player cannot play
for his club if he is meant to be on international duty. Article 5 reads: "A
player who has been called up by his association for one of its
representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant
association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered
during the period for which he has been released or should have been
released."
Article 6.2 adds: "If a club refuses to release a player or neglects to do
so despite the provisions of this annexe, the Fifa Players' Status Committee
shall furthermore request the association to which the club belongs to
declare any match(es) in which the player took part to have been lost by the
club concerned. "Any match contested according to the cup system shall be
regarded as having been won by the opposing team, irrespective of the
score."
It was angry Senegal - furious that Sakho played for West Ham 48 hours after
they were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations - who complained to FIFA.
West Ham insisted Sakho had a back injury that prevented him from flying and
claim he was driven to Ashton Gate in a limousine for the FA Cup tie. The
east Londoners are not trying to draw a line under the affair. A Hammers'
statement said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will
now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on
Sunday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll has a VERY surprising taste in pets
19:30, 5 February 2015 By Richard Innes
Until we saw this video, we struggled to believe the big centre-forward
ACTUALLY had these dogs at home
The Mirror
On the football pitch, Andy Carroll is a beast of a man. The powerful West
Ham No9 doesn't just head a football better than any other living human
being. He's an intimidating weapon of a footballer, regularly used to bully
opposition defences.
Even off the pitch, he looks like a real man's man. 6ft 4ins tall, hairy,
bearded and a proud Geordie… you could imagine him working as miner,
bricklayer or something equally masculine.
So, what sort of dog do you think this old-fashioned "bloke" goes home to? A
big Alsatian? A Staff? Maybe a loveable Labrador?
Nope. Andy goes home to… well, we're not sure exactly what breed his dogs
are. Take a look at the video and see for yourself. One looks a bit like a
chihuahua, but let's just say they are the type of canines sometimes found
in the handbags of rich girls in California.
You might think Carroll would claim the dogs belong to his other half,
former TOWIE star Billi Mucklow. But no, Andy is so smitten with the tiny
creatures, they're all over his Instagram page - today, he even posted the
video above, of them trying to escape their pen.
Anyone else notice the dog's double bed in the background?
Well, in fairness to Andy, we guess they are pretty cute. But we would still
prefer to see him with some lions…
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will reignite their interest in QPR defender Steven Caulker if
Rangers get relegated
18:25, 5 February 2015 By James Nursey
The Hammers attempted to sign the former Cardiff centre-half on deadline
day, but were scuppered by Hoops chairman Tony Fernandes
The Mirror
West Ham will return for Steven Caulker if QPR go down. MirrorSport can
reveal the Hammers moved for Rangers' centre-back Caulker on deadline day to
bolster their defence. Loftus Road chairman Tony Fernandes snubbed their
interest despite initial talks. But Hammers boss Sam Allardyce and chairman
David Sullivan intend to keep Caulker on their radar as they will lose
Winston Reid this summer. Caulker, a 6ft 3in former Spurs stopper, went down
with Cardiff last season but still earned a summer move back to the Premier
League. And Caulker will want to stay in the top-flight again should
19th-placed QPR be relegated. West Ham also have an interest in Genk's
Senegalese centre-back Kara Mbodj, who is likely to be sold this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
FIFA/Sakho outcome will suit FA
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Football Association will have breathed a collective sigh of relief
after Fifa hit the Hammers with just a small fine yesterday.
For most of those assessing the situation privately believe the Irons could
easily have been kicked out of the competition. Fifa regulations said as
much so the decision to fine the club just £71k was seen as an almighty let
off by most observers. And given that we had earned £90k from the win over
Bristol City, the club remains in profit from the competition. The FA are
highly unlikely to entertain appeals after being kept in touch with
developments at Fifa throughout yesterday. Any punishment involving our
expulsion would have thrown their competition into chaos and a source close
to the English ruling body said: "The fine suits everybody." West Ham's near
silence on the matter indeed speaks volumes – we had a bit of a lucky get
off.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
East stand could have been redeveloped
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
New planning documents submitted by the Galliard group last week reveal that
the Boleyn Ground East stand could have been redeveloped to make it a 40,000
seat stadium without moving home to the Olympic Stadium.
The Hammers were originally granted planning permission to redevelop the
East stand back in 1999 when planning permission as granted to redevelop the
West Stand. Planning was granted again in 2006 when new plans were submitted
which can be seen above. This new East stand would of taken the Boleyn
Ground capacity to 40,356. This permission expired after three years before
the present owners took charge of the club.
Arguments given during the first bid for the Olympic Stadium against
reviving the East Stand redevelopment were the close proximity of the Upton
Park Bus Garage and that any new East stand would block the light of the
flats behind it. Upton Park bus garage was shut down a few years ago after
the largest bus garage in London was built close to West Ham underground
station so that reason has gone.
As for the light problem, Galliard now propose that two blocks of high rise
flats will be built along Priory Road in the space vacated by the East
Stand, these blocks will be eleven stories high while the existing flats
behind are only nine stories, the current East Stand is according to the
developer is between 4-6 stories. It does raise the question whether the
redevelopment of the East Stand was more viable than we were led to believe
before our bid for the Olympic stadium.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammer joins St Mirren
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham youngster Kieran Sadlier has joined St Mirren until the end of the
season, following his release by the Hammers earlier this week.
The 20-year-old midfielder who is also a republic of Ireland Under-21
international has agreed a contract until the end of the season having
failed to make the breakthrough at West Ham's Academy. Speaking to the St
Mirren club website manager Gary Teale "Kieran has had a good development at
West Ham and also being involved with the Irish Under-21 team. He was very
keen to come up to Scotland when I spoke to him before the transfer window
closed and negotiated his release from West Ham to come up to St Mirren. He
showed great enthusiasm and ambition that he wanted to play first-team
football – hopefully he will be of great benefit to ourselves going
forward."
Sadlier took to Twitter to thank well-wishers following his exit from West
Ham saying "I'd like to say thanks to my team mates, the staff and all the
fans for the amazing 10 years I've spent at West Ham! End of an era! I can't
wait to get started with St Mirren up in Scotland! A new chapter in my
life!And thanks to both sets of fans for the messages"
Eighties Hammers Hero Frank McAvennie spend five years at St Mirren playing
135 matches and scoring 48 goals before joining West Ham in 1985.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Locals want Boleyn Ground to become a park
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Local resident group Friends of Queens Market have called on Newham Council
to ensure all the flats on being built on the Boleyn Ground are developed as
social housing units. And they have also called for the Boleyn Ground
football pitch to become a public park.
The stadium will be demolished in 2016 after 112 of use by West Ham when we
move to the Olympic Stadium. Property developers Galliard purchased the
site and have put in a planning application to Newham Council to build a
"village" of 838 homes.
They are proposing only 51 flats are 'shared ownership' but for the majority
of residents in Newham believe they will cost too much. Galliard provide
homes at the luxury end of the market. In their recent development in
Canning Town, the price of a 2 bedroom flat starting at £435,000 and a 2
bedroom apartment penthouse reaching £610,000.
If the 838 flats reach anything close to the £435,000 price tag of the
Canning town apartments this could raise over £350 million for the Galliard
group in property sales. The Friends claim The Boleyn Ground will be another
private development in Newham that local residents can't afford.
On page 40 of the planning application Galliard claims:"It would not be
viable to deliver any affordable housing as part of this scheme."
Following a competitive bidding process, West Ham United selected Galliard
Group as the purchaser for the site ahead of a number of other national and
international companies.
The Club was impressed with Galliard Group's links to the local community
and their commitment to honouring the history of the Hammers at the Boleyn
Ground as part of their proposed development.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons wait and see 'injury crisis'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Irons fans are set to discover whether the "injury crisis" involving five
players is as serious as they have been led to believe over the next couple
of weeks. Manager Sam Allardyce described the situation as a crisis
immediately after the Liverpool defeat in which James Collins and Winston
Reid picked up hamstring niggles. Carl Jenkinson and James Tomkins both
missed the game but are expected to return to the side against Manchester
United on Sunday. Chiek Kouyate is reportedly carrying a calf strain and
training ground sources claim Collins may be more likely than Reid to
recover for the game. Andy Carroll, meanwhile is expected to be out for a
fortnight with an ankle problem.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parkesy: "We need the deadly duo against United"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 5, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
Phil Parkes has urged manager Sam Allardyce to return the deadly duo –
Diafra Sakho and Enner Valencia to the top of the Irons attack on Sunday. He
believes Manchester United is a match made for the pace and mobility of the
pair declaring: "Their defence could really struggle against those two."
United have been getting some results and it's always a tough game but Sak
and Valencia bring so much to the party and have more to unsettle United
than most. Speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh he said: "We've only beaten
Leicester, Hull and Bristol City in our last 11 games and this would be a
good game to kick start things again but I think it will need those two in
the team if we are to manage it. "I was at my old club QPR for the recent
visit of United and I thought their defence was absolutely awful – Diafra
and Enner could really move it about . I just hope that's the way Sam
Allardyce decides to play it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Thursday, February 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th February 2015
Cresswell counts on home comforts
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell is looking forward to getting back to the Boleyn Ground on Sunday
04.02.2015
Aaron Cresswell hopes that West Ham United's excellent home form will stand them in good stead for Sunday's Barclays Premier League visit of Manchester United.Only Louis van Gaal's men and leaders Chelsea have won more home league games than the Hammers and so Cresswell is confident that United, like Liverpool and Manchester City before them, can come a cropper at the Boleyn Ground. Though circumstances conspired against Cresswell and his colleagues at Anfield last weekend, the 25-year-old insists there is no shortage of confidence in the camp ahead of Sunday's teatime kick-off. "We've got to look forward to Sunday's game and go into the game full of confidence," he confirmed. "We're still eighth in the league after 23 games and there's no reason why we can't stay there. We've just got to carry on with our job, get three points on Sunday and crack on. "Manchester United have world class players, as most teams do in the Premier League, but we're at home, so there's no reason why we can't get the three points. We've had some great wins at home this season against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool and so Sunday's game is one we're looking forward to."
Having ended the Liverpool defeat without a recognised centre-half on the pitch, it remains to be seen just who will line-up alongside Cresswell in the Hammers' back four. But the former Ipswich Town full-back believes West Ham have the personnel to cope with the absentees. He continued: "Injuries are just one of those things that happen in football and there's nothing you can do about it. The physios will obviously assess the players all this week and do the very best they can to try and get them ready for Sunday's game. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. "I'm sure whoever comes in there will do a job. We've got a big enough squad available here and whoever comes in will be up to the task."
As for Sunday's visitors, Cresswell is relishing the prospect of pitting his wits against some of the world's best, even if it promises to be another stern test. "They've been getting better with time," he added. "At the start of the season they had their ups and downs, like most teams do. But under van Gaal they're obviously doing well at the minute. "You're playing against world-class players, most probably the best players in the world. You want to challenge yourself, you want to see where you stand against the world's best. For me personally, it's one that I'm really looking forward to and I'm sure the rest of the boys are too."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vote for your Player of the Month
WHUFC.com
Who was your top Hammers performer in January? Have your say now
04.02.2015
Voting is now open to decide your West Ham United Player of the Month for January.
The Hammers only tasted defeat once in the month, and made progress through two rounds of the FA Cup to boot. Now it's time to pick the top performer.
January's nominated players are...
Adrian - Who could forget the Spanish stopper's heroics against Everton in the FA Cup, stepping up in the penalty shoot out to secure a dramatic 9-8 sudden death success. He also kept clean sheets against Hull City in the league and Bristol City in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Diafra Sakho - The Senegal striker only played two games in the month, but made his mark with goals in both of them. He notched on New Year's Day against West Bromwich Albion and returned to seal FA Cup progress with a header at Bristol City..
Andy Carroll - Another striker who enjoyed a fine month was Andy Carroll. The big No9 scored a fine individual goal against Swansea City, adding to his tally against Hull City, reacting first to knock home a rebound after keeper Allan McGregor spilled a Enner Valencia shot.
James Collins - The Welshman has enjoyed a good run in the team over the last month and capped a solid spell with the opening goal in the first running of the FA Cup tie at Everton at the start of January. Contributed to the clean sheet against Hull City
Enner Valencia - With Diafra Sakho suffering a back injury, Ecuador striker Valencia has been a regular in January, and he notched his first Boleyn Ground goal in the FA Cup replay against Everton. He also played provider, scoring two assists against Hull City - one for Carroll and the other for Morgan Amalfitano.
To cast your vote, click WHUFC.com and scroll to the bottom right-hand corner of the page.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jenko frustrated to miss out
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson was disappointed to miss Saturday's trip to Anfield
03.02.2015
Carl Jenkinson was a frustrated observer on Saturday as West Ham United suffered a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool. The 22-year-old defender was forced to sit out after suffering a calf injury, meaning he missed a game for just the second time since forcing his way into the starting XI in October. Like his teammates, he was disappointed that the Hammers could not keep Liverpool below them in the table, but has backed them to bounce back against Manchester United this weekend. He said: "Everyone wants to play at Anfield so it was especially frustrating to miss that one. It's a fantastic place to play football. I streamed it on the internet and it's never nice watching when you want to be out there. "We have a massive game again on Sunday. Man Utd are coming into a bit of form and they have some great players but we're a very strong side at home. "It should be a great game and one we're looking to come out on top of."
The Hammers may have been defeated at Anfield, but it was their first loss of 2015, so Jenkinson believes they have the ability to get back on track swiftly. He added: "We've only lost once this year, but playing in the Premier League you're going to lose games of football. Liverpool played quite well on the day and that can happen. "It's important that we bounce back quickly and that's got to start this weekend."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho: West Ham fined £71,000 by Fifa for rule breach
By Frank Keogh
BBC Sport
West Ham have been fined £71,000 by Fifa for breaching rules over striker Diafra Sakho but no action has been taken over their place in the FA Cup. Striker Sakho withdrew from Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations squad with a back injury but scored 18 days later in West Ham's Cup 1-0 win at Bristol City. Bristol City say they are disappointed by the penalty and are "considering their options". Fifa has reprimanded both West Ham and the 25-year-old forward. Football's governing body says a player cannot appear for his team when he should be on international duty. But the Hammers, who got £90,000 from the FA prize fund for winning their fourth-round tie, have escaped potential expulsion from the FA Cup and will travel to West Brom in round five on Saturday 14 February. West Ham will also be able to select Sakho, their top scorer this season, for Sunday's Premier League home match against Manchester United. Manager Sam Allardyce said he had left the forward out of last Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool after being advised to rest him until the dispute was resolved.
Fifa fined West Ham 100,000 Swiss francs (£71,000) after a disciplinary committee found the club and the player to have violated its regulations by playing in the game at Ashton Gate. Sakho came on as a substitute and headed in the 81st-minute winner two days before Senegal were knocked out of the Cup of Nations. The Hammers said he had not been fit enough to fly to Africa and was driven in a limousine to Bristol City.
A club statement after the Fifa decision said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday." Bristol City said in its own statement: "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the Fifa disciplinary committee and is considering its options." The club has not commented on newspaper reports it could seek compensation of up to £250,000 - a combination of lost prize money and gate receipts. Under its rules, Fifa could have requested the Football Association reverse the result of the Cup tie.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emmanuel has the blues over West Ham knock back
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor has confirmed that Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy blocked his transfer deadline day move to West Ham.
The 30-year-old striker was all set to move to the Boleyn on loan for the rest of the season until Levy pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute - much to Adebayor's disappointment. The Togo international had chosen to move to West Ham having been offered the choice of several interested parties - but Levy was unwilling to sanction the move due to the Irons being in contention for a European placing this season. "The club decided to send me out on loan, which I was pleased with," Adebayor told Sky Sports. "I was lucky enough to have the choice of five good clubs. "When I finally chose the one I wanted to go to, unluckily Mr Levy was against it because they had become a rival. So I decided I should stay at the club, which I'm very happy to do. "I was more than happy to play for West Ham. I wanted to stay in the Premier League and took the chance to stay in London so I had a choice of Queens Park Rangers or West Ham. "I decided to go to West Ham because of their position in the league. They are fighting well and doing everything [they can] to finish in the top four. I've played alongside a few of their players - like Alex Song - so I wanted to go there instead of QPR."
Levy's decision to cancel Adebayor's move also scuppered Carlton Cole's planned switch to West Bromwich Albion. According to reports, Cole reacted angrily to the news that he was being recalled to West Ham. That is perhaps no great surprise given that Albion had offered the striker - who leaves the Boleyn this summer - a two-and-a-half year contract.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song's sadness over no new arrivals
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Alex Song has admitted he was disappointed at West Ham's inability to bring in any new faces capable of challenging for a first team spot during the transfer window. The on-loan midfielder, who has settled into to life at the Boleyn well confessed that he was frustrated at the club's failure to land any of their key targets - or any of the eight players sought on deadline day. "We know we have good players and a good squad but we were looking to have more players come in," he told Sky Sports. "It didn't happen so we have to focus on the players we've got, keep going and play the way we have been." Song was also sad that the Hammers were unable to complete the signing of Emmanuel Adebayor, who the former Cameroon international knows personally from having played alongside him at Arsenal in the mid-noughties. "I played with him for five years so I know what he can do," added Song. "So when someone told me he had the potential to come to West Ham I was very happy, because I know this kind of player can help us contribute to doing very well in the league. "We need players like this. It didn't happen but now I want just to tell him good luck."
Adebayor's move to West Ham was halted by Tottenham Chairman Daniel Levy, who whilst agreeing to subsidise a move to Queens Park Rangers but not to West Ham, as he views the two clubs as rivals for European slot.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
City could claim seven-figure sum, predicts Leroy
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammer Leroy Rosenior believes Bristol City will hit West Ham with a compensation claim after FIFA ruled that West Ham breached regulations by fielding Diafra Sakho in their 4th round FA Cup tie. And Rosenior - who played for both clubs during a long and fruitful career - thinks that West Ham could be in for a major financial setback, now that FIFA have ruled against them. "You can understand Senegal's anger over the issue," Rosenior told the Bristol Post. "From the outside looking in, something certainly doesn't smell right and if the rule states that a player is unable to play for their club during the period they should have been on international duty, then I fancy West Ham could have a bit of a problem. "I do think that City have a great case for financial compensation because of how influential Sakho was on the game when coming off the bench to score the goal that ultimately separated the teams. "There is the financial windfall that would have come from both a replay and a potential fifth round tie to consider - and I wouldn't be surprised if City could make a claim of somewhere between £500,000 and £1,000,000."
Bristol City released a short statement a few moments ago in which they expressed their "disappointment" at West Ham's nominal fine.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bristol City to 'consider options ' in wake of FIFA fine
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Bristol City have released a statement criticising FIFA's decision to fine West Ham for fielding Diafra Sakho in their FA Cup tie at Ashton Gate last month. Responding to FIFA's earlier statement, in which they confirmed West Ham had been fined CHF100,000 for using Sakho as a second half substitute, The Robins admitted to being "disappointed" at the governing body's decision. "Bristol City FC notes FIFA's decision with regards to the Disciplinary Committee's case against West Ham United and their player Diafra Sakho," read the club's statement. "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options. The club will be making no further comment at this time. "
City, who were knocked out of the FA Cup courtesy of Sakho's late winner in West Ham's 1-0 win are likely to consider an appeal, although legal action against West Ham is also an option. West Ham were awarded £90,000 for progressing to the 5th round of the FA Cup, whilst the FIFA fine equates to just £71,000. City have received no compensation, despite West Ham being found guilty of breaking FIFA rules.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Summer move planned - if Sam stays
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are planning to complete the signing of Genk defensive midfielder Kara Mbodj in the summer, having failed to push the deal through ahead of Monday night's transfer deadline. The 25-year-old defender was one of Sam Allardyce's key targets on the final day of the window, but concerns over specific contractual terms and the inability to proceed with a full medical (due to time constraints) saw the deal fall through.
Despite that, West Ham plan to revisit their bid in the summer, with the two clubs having already agreed a fee worth in the region of £4.5million. The deal's completion also depends on whether Sam Allardyce, whose contract expires at the end of the season, will remain in charge thereafter.
Mbodj, a Senegal international, began his career in Norway with Tromso - who he represented for two years before moving to Belgium in a €1.4million switch (in December 2012). He featured alongside West Ham's Cheik Kouyate in this year's African Cup of Nations.
Now managed by Alex McLeish, who used to work for David Sullivan at Birmingham, Mbodj is the latest of a long line of Premier League-bound stars to come from Genk; others to make Premier League moves in recent years include Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne and Christian Benteke.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fined over Diafra Sakho's appearance against Bristol City
Last Updated: 04/02/15 6:58pm
SSN
West Ham have been fined £71,000 for fielding Diafra Sakho in the FA Cup win over Bristol City despite telling Senegal the striker was unfit. The club have also been reprimanded but they will be allowed to continue to play in this year's competition. Sakho, 25, had been due to join up with his national side at the Africa Cup of Nations but the Hammers informed the Senegalese FA that injury would prevent him from travelling to the tournament. On January 25, Sakho came off the substitutes' bench to score the only goal of the tie at Ashton Gate – prompting protest from the Senegalese authorities. West Ham issued a brief statement following FIFA's decision. "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday," it read.
A FIFA statement read: "FIFA can today confirm the decisions of its Disciplinary Committee in the case involving the English club West Ham United and the player Diafra Sakho. "Diafra Sakho was called up by the Senegalese Football Association on 18 December 2014 to play for Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations 2015 taking place in Equatorial Guinea between 17 January and 8 February 2015, as well as to attend the training camp of the said representative team from 5-16 January 2015 in Morocco. "The Senegalese FA was informed by West Ham United that Sakho was prevented from playing and travelling by plane due to injury and thus he did not join the Senegal team." "The Senegalese FA was informed by West Ham United that Sakho was prevented from playing and travelling by plane due to injury and thus he did not join the Senegal team. "On 25 January 2015, the player took part in an official match for his club West Ham United. Senegal were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations 2015 on 27 January 2015. "In view of the above and in accordance with art. 6 par. 1 of Annexe 1 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (hereinafter the Regulations), disciplinary proceedings were opened against the player and the club for a potential violation of Annexe 1 of the Regulations. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has found the club and the player to have violated art. 5 of Annexe 1 of the Regulations in relation to the match played by Sakho on 25 January 2015. The club has been fined CHF 100,000 in accordance with art. 10 c) and art. 15 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and issued with a reprimand, while the player has been sanctioned with a reprimand in accordance with art. 10 b) and art. 14 of the FDC. "The terms of the decisions were notified to the relevant parties today."
Both Sakho and West Ham have been cleared to play in the next round as scheduled, where Sam Allardyce's side face West Brom. But Bristol City issued a a brief statement of their own following FIFA's ruling, hinting that this may not be the end of the matter as far as they are concerned. "Bristol City FC notes FIFA's decision with regards to the Disciplinary Committee's case against West Ham United and their player Diafra Sakho," the statement read. "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options. "The club will be making no further comment at this time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carlton Cole has been a fine servant for West Ham and deserved better than his treatment on Deadline Day
13:24, 4 February 2015
OPINION BY JOHNCROSS
The striker was on the verge of a switch to West Brom, only for the Hammers to block the deal at the last minute
The Mirror
Alan Curbishley hit the nail on the head. Sometimes we forget that there is a "moral" issue with footballers just as there is for anyone in any walk of life. On transfer deadline day, West Ham blocked Carlton Cole, a loyal player with just four months left on his contract, from joining West Brom on a two-and-a-half-year contract worth £5m which would probably the last big deal of his career.
It was a curious story which ended with 31-year-old Cole screaming down the phone at West Ham boss Sam Allardyce for stopping him from going to West Brom. But former West Ham boss Curbishley, now one of the best and most sensible pundits in the media, was one of Sky's experts on deadline day and put the whole Cole situation into perfect context. Curbishley said: "Sometimes there's a moral situation as well. Carlton Cole's contract is running out this summer and it looks like West Brom are offering him a longer contract. "Sometimes there's a moral issue when you feel as a manager and as a club that you've got to do what's right for the player. But invariably you are looking if it might back fire on you. "He's done a lot for West Ham, left then came back and needs to be playing regularly. With the length of the contract, I think sometimes morally you need to do what's right for the player even if perhaps it's not right for the club."
Sadly, West Ham blocked the move in the final few hours as their own attempts to sign Emmanuel Adebayor fell flat and they decided against allowing 31-year-old Cole from moving to West Brom. The day ended with Cole, at the West Brom training ground having done a medical and agreed personal terms on a £500,000 transfer, shouting down the phone at Allardyce: "you're f***ing wrecking my career." At the end of the season, Cole might struggle to get a decent deal. A lot of people at West Brom heard the shouting, with Cole pleading with Allardyce to let him go for the sake of his family and his career. Cole, who has had the best part of ten years at West Ham in two spells at the club, has been such a good pro that it is hard to believe he will refuse to play or anything like that. But others would.
That's because the collapse of his move to West Brom is only half the story. The other half is that West Ham did agree to allow Cole to go to Queens Park Rangers. Cole did not want to go there. That left Harry Redknapp, still in charge at QPR, furious.
Cole didn't want to go to QPR because he wanted to go to West Brom where he felt Tony Pulis would play him every week, it was an two and a half year deal and it would give him and his family long term security. West Ham agreed a £500,000 fee for him to join West Brom. Then they blocked it anyway. Cole felt West Brom really wanted him - and that was the key. In the end, Cole was pleading with Allardyce to let him go. He looks like he will be back to being fourth choice at West Ham. The worst scenario now for Cole is that he does not play for the rest of the season. Sometimes in football, no matter how well paid the players are, surely they deserve a little respect and goodwill. And, as Alan Curbishley said, it's almost a moral obligation. There's no doubt about it, Carlton Cole was the big loser in this window. He was left feeling like a piece of meat and while deadline day seems fun, there are some really nasty side effects, too.
Cole is a good solid pro who deserves better.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Diafra Sakho row may see Bristol City protest FIFA NOT kicking them out of FA Cup
22:30, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
League One club "disappointed and considering its options" after Hammers are only fined for playing Senegal striker during Africa Cup of Nations
The Mirror
West Ham face a fresh FA Cup battle with Bristol City after FIFA's decision not to kick the Irons out of the competition. The League One club are "considering" whether to protest after world football's governing body contracted their own rules by only fining the Irons £71,000 for fielding striker Diafra Sakho at Ashton Gate last month. Sakho pulled out of Senegal's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations with a back injury but scored the winner for West Ham 18 days later in their FA Cup Fourth Round tie to knock City out. If FIFA had applied their rules, City would have been reinstated and West Ham - set to play West Brom in the fifth round next Saturday - dumped out.
A statement from the Robins said: "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options."
FIFA launched an investigation after Senegal angrily complained about Sakho's FA Cup appearance. The FIFA rules state that a player cannot play for his club if he is meant to be on international duty. Article 5 reads: "A player who has been called up by his association for one of its representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered during the period for which he has been released or should have been released."
Article 6.2 adds: "If a club refuses to release a player or neglects to do so despite the provisions of this annexe, the Fifa Players' Status Committee shall furthermore request the association to which the club belongs to declare any match(es) in which the player took part to have been lost by the club concerned. "Any match contested according to the cup system shall be regarded as having been won by the opposing team, irrespective of the score."
It was angry Senegal - furious that Sakho played for West Ham 48 hours after they were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations - who complained to FIFA. West Ham insisted Sakho had a back injury that prevented him from flying and claim he was driven to Ashton Gate in a limousine for the FA Cup tie. The east Londoners are not trying to draw a line under the affair. A Hammers' statement said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR to put Mauro Zarate on fitness regime after bid to send Argentine back to West Ham failed
18:51, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The Hoops were so unimpressed by Zarate's lack of fitness that they desperately tried to send him back to Upton Park in exchange for Matt Jarvis
The Mirror
Mauro Zarate will be put on a punishing fitness regime to get him in shape to join QPR's relegation fight. The west Londoners, unimpressed by his lack of fitness despite his desperation to play, tried to send the 27-year-old striker back to West Ham with winger Matt Jarvis instead going to Loftus Road. They were prevented from doing so, however, by Premier League rules which decree a player cannot rejoin a club he has left in the same window. Zarate, who joined QPR after complaining about his lack of action at Upton Park, stunned staff at Loftus Road with his lack of condition. The player featured just eight times for Sam Allardyce at West Ham and has so far played only 14 minutes out of the three games for which he has been available at QPR.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boleyn pub raises £5m in funds
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
West Ham have confirmed they have sold nearly 750 of 1,000 packages at the new Boleyn Bar based in the Olympic Stadium. Members will enjoy exclusive use of the bar and café, free half-time drinks and halfway line seats. They will enjoy access to every West Ham Premier League home fixture plus the first three cup games, priority for cup semi-finals and finals, a dedicated VIP entrance to the Stadium, and a complimentary matchday programme.
With 75% of the packages sold the Hammers have received £450,000 up front with a further £4.53m payable by monthly direct debt by members over the next three years.
Fans wanting to buy one of the remaining two hundred and fifty places are required to pay a joining fee of £600 with monthly direct debits of £168 beginning from June 2016. This price will remain fixed for the length of your membership making the £2016 per season on top on the £600 joining fee.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Academy cull continues
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The club have officially confirmed that West Ham academy players Kieran Sadlier and Ben Marlow have left the Club after their contracts were cancelled my mutual consent.
This brings the total number of Academy players officially released to six in the past week. The club previously confirmed Jamie Harney, Danny Whitehead, Blair Turgott and Matthias Fanimo have all left West Ham United after their contracts were cancelled my mutual consent. Blair Turgott signed for Coventry on transfer deadline day on a free transfer.
A host of other Academy players whose contract expire this summer are also thought to be under threat and their names could soon be added to this expanding list, They include Danny Potts, Seb Lletget, Paul Mccallum, Lewis Page, Taylor Tombides, Josh Cullen, Raphael Spiegel, Moses Makasi, Nathan Mavila, Amos Nasha and Sam Westley.
Terry Westley took over the Academy last Summer with Steve Potts announced as the Under 21 manager earlier this year . It is understood Terry has been tasked by the board with getting a return on the £4m plus investment made into the Academy every year.
The Hammers U21's remain bottom of the Premier League U21 league with eight points after losing eight of their 12 games this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer questions Jack's message
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
Former Hammer David James has questioned Jack Sullivan's message on Twitter on transfer deadline day saying he could have a negative impact on current West Ham players and morale. The Chairman of the Youth Supporters Club Jack Sullivan posted a message on twitter just before 11pm the January transfer window closed on Monday. saying "Sadly despite trying to do eight deals today everyone has collapsed in the last 2 hours and are now unlikely to do any business" The former Hammers keeper has suggested that young Sullivan should not have posted the message. James speaking on BT Sport on Tuesday night said "That's a lot of players to bring in, a lot of them were developmental players, or up and coming players, weren't they? You know when your club has failed to bring in eight players and you look around and think: 'Was it me who was going?' I don't think it's a good message to send out."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell is looking forward to getting back to the Boleyn Ground on Sunday
04.02.2015
Aaron Cresswell hopes that West Ham United's excellent home form will stand them in good stead for Sunday's Barclays Premier League visit of Manchester United.Only Louis van Gaal's men and leaders Chelsea have won more home league games than the Hammers and so Cresswell is confident that United, like Liverpool and Manchester City before them, can come a cropper at the Boleyn Ground. Though circumstances conspired against Cresswell and his colleagues at Anfield last weekend, the 25-year-old insists there is no shortage of confidence in the camp ahead of Sunday's teatime kick-off. "We've got to look forward to Sunday's game and go into the game full of confidence," he confirmed. "We're still eighth in the league after 23 games and there's no reason why we can't stay there. We've just got to carry on with our job, get three points on Sunday and crack on. "Manchester United have world class players, as most teams do in the Premier League, but we're at home, so there's no reason why we can't get the three points. We've had some great wins at home this season against the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool and so Sunday's game is one we're looking forward to."
Having ended the Liverpool defeat without a recognised centre-half on the pitch, it remains to be seen just who will line-up alongside Cresswell in the Hammers' back four. But the former Ipswich Town full-back believes West Ham have the personnel to cope with the absentees. He continued: "Injuries are just one of those things that happen in football and there's nothing you can do about it. The physios will obviously assess the players all this week and do the very best they can to try and get them ready for Sunday's game. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. "I'm sure whoever comes in there will do a job. We've got a big enough squad available here and whoever comes in will be up to the task."
As for Sunday's visitors, Cresswell is relishing the prospect of pitting his wits against some of the world's best, even if it promises to be another stern test. "They've been getting better with time," he added. "At the start of the season they had their ups and downs, like most teams do. But under van Gaal they're obviously doing well at the minute. "You're playing against world-class players, most probably the best players in the world. You want to challenge yourself, you want to see where you stand against the world's best. For me personally, it's one that I'm really looking forward to and I'm sure the rest of the boys are too."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vote for your Player of the Month
WHUFC.com
Who was your top Hammers performer in January? Have your say now
04.02.2015
Voting is now open to decide your West Ham United Player of the Month for January.
The Hammers only tasted defeat once in the month, and made progress through two rounds of the FA Cup to boot. Now it's time to pick the top performer.
January's nominated players are...
Adrian - Who could forget the Spanish stopper's heroics against Everton in the FA Cup, stepping up in the penalty shoot out to secure a dramatic 9-8 sudden death success. He also kept clean sheets against Hull City in the league and Bristol City in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
Diafra Sakho - The Senegal striker only played two games in the month, but made his mark with goals in both of them. He notched on New Year's Day against West Bromwich Albion and returned to seal FA Cup progress with a header at Bristol City..
Andy Carroll - Another striker who enjoyed a fine month was Andy Carroll. The big No9 scored a fine individual goal against Swansea City, adding to his tally against Hull City, reacting first to knock home a rebound after keeper Allan McGregor spilled a Enner Valencia shot.
James Collins - The Welshman has enjoyed a good run in the team over the last month and capped a solid spell with the opening goal in the first running of the FA Cup tie at Everton at the start of January. Contributed to the clean sheet against Hull City
Enner Valencia - With Diafra Sakho suffering a back injury, Ecuador striker Valencia has been a regular in January, and he notched his first Boleyn Ground goal in the FA Cup replay against Everton. He also played provider, scoring two assists against Hull City - one for Carroll and the other for Morgan Amalfitano.
To cast your vote, click WHUFC.com and scroll to the bottom right-hand corner of the page.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jenko frustrated to miss out
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson was disappointed to miss Saturday's trip to Anfield
03.02.2015
Carl Jenkinson was a frustrated observer on Saturday as West Ham United suffered a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool. The 22-year-old defender was forced to sit out after suffering a calf injury, meaning he missed a game for just the second time since forcing his way into the starting XI in October. Like his teammates, he was disappointed that the Hammers could not keep Liverpool below them in the table, but has backed them to bounce back against Manchester United this weekend. He said: "Everyone wants to play at Anfield so it was especially frustrating to miss that one. It's a fantastic place to play football. I streamed it on the internet and it's never nice watching when you want to be out there. "We have a massive game again on Sunday. Man Utd are coming into a bit of form and they have some great players but we're a very strong side at home. "It should be a great game and one we're looking to come out on top of."
The Hammers may have been defeated at Anfield, but it was their first loss of 2015, so Jenkinson believes they have the ability to get back on track swiftly. He added: "We've only lost once this year, but playing in the Premier League you're going to lose games of football. Liverpool played quite well on the day and that can happen. "It's important that we bounce back quickly and that's got to start this weekend."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho: West Ham fined £71,000 by Fifa for rule breach
By Frank Keogh
BBC Sport
West Ham have been fined £71,000 by Fifa for breaching rules over striker Diafra Sakho but no action has been taken over their place in the FA Cup. Striker Sakho withdrew from Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations squad with a back injury but scored 18 days later in West Ham's Cup 1-0 win at Bristol City. Bristol City say they are disappointed by the penalty and are "considering their options". Fifa has reprimanded both West Ham and the 25-year-old forward. Football's governing body says a player cannot appear for his team when he should be on international duty. But the Hammers, who got £90,000 from the FA prize fund for winning their fourth-round tie, have escaped potential expulsion from the FA Cup and will travel to West Brom in round five on Saturday 14 February. West Ham will also be able to select Sakho, their top scorer this season, for Sunday's Premier League home match against Manchester United. Manager Sam Allardyce said he had left the forward out of last Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Liverpool after being advised to rest him until the dispute was resolved.
Fifa fined West Ham 100,000 Swiss francs (£71,000) after a disciplinary committee found the club and the player to have violated its regulations by playing in the game at Ashton Gate. Sakho came on as a substitute and headed in the 81st-minute winner two days before Senegal were knocked out of the Cup of Nations. The Hammers said he had not been fit enough to fly to Africa and was driven in a limousine to Bristol City.
A club statement after the Fifa decision said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday." Bristol City said in its own statement: "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the Fifa disciplinary committee and is considering its options." The club has not commented on newspaper reports it could seek compensation of up to £250,000 - a combination of lost prize money and gate receipts. Under its rules, Fifa could have requested the Football Association reverse the result of the Cup tie.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Emmanuel has the blues over West Ham knock back
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Tottenham striker Emmanuel Adebayor has confirmed that Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy blocked his transfer deadline day move to West Ham.
The 30-year-old striker was all set to move to the Boleyn on loan for the rest of the season until Levy pulled the plug on the deal at the last minute - much to Adebayor's disappointment. The Togo international had chosen to move to West Ham having been offered the choice of several interested parties - but Levy was unwilling to sanction the move due to the Irons being in contention for a European placing this season. "The club decided to send me out on loan, which I was pleased with," Adebayor told Sky Sports. "I was lucky enough to have the choice of five good clubs. "When I finally chose the one I wanted to go to, unluckily Mr Levy was against it because they had become a rival. So I decided I should stay at the club, which I'm very happy to do. "I was more than happy to play for West Ham. I wanted to stay in the Premier League and took the chance to stay in London so I had a choice of Queens Park Rangers or West Ham. "I decided to go to West Ham because of their position in the league. They are fighting well and doing everything [they can] to finish in the top four. I've played alongside a few of their players - like Alex Song - so I wanted to go there instead of QPR."
Levy's decision to cancel Adebayor's move also scuppered Carlton Cole's planned switch to West Bromwich Albion. According to reports, Cole reacted angrily to the news that he was being recalled to West Ham. That is perhaps no great surprise given that Albion had offered the striker - who leaves the Boleyn this summer - a two-and-a-half year contract.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Song's sadness over no new arrivals
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Alex Song has admitted he was disappointed at West Ham's inability to bring in any new faces capable of challenging for a first team spot during the transfer window. The on-loan midfielder, who has settled into to life at the Boleyn well confessed that he was frustrated at the club's failure to land any of their key targets - or any of the eight players sought on deadline day. "We know we have good players and a good squad but we were looking to have more players come in," he told Sky Sports. "It didn't happen so we have to focus on the players we've got, keep going and play the way we have been." Song was also sad that the Hammers were unable to complete the signing of Emmanuel Adebayor, who the former Cameroon international knows personally from having played alongside him at Arsenal in the mid-noughties. "I played with him for five years so I know what he can do," added Song. "So when someone told me he had the potential to come to West Ham I was very happy, because I know this kind of player can help us contribute to doing very well in the league. "We need players like this. It didn't happen but now I want just to tell him good luck."
Adebayor's move to West Ham was halted by Tottenham Chairman Daniel Levy, who whilst agreeing to subsidise a move to Queens Park Rangers but not to West Ham, as he views the two clubs as rivals for European slot.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
City could claim seven-figure sum, predicts Leroy
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammer Leroy Rosenior believes Bristol City will hit West Ham with a compensation claim after FIFA ruled that West Ham breached regulations by fielding Diafra Sakho in their 4th round FA Cup tie. And Rosenior - who played for both clubs during a long and fruitful career - thinks that West Ham could be in for a major financial setback, now that FIFA have ruled against them. "You can understand Senegal's anger over the issue," Rosenior told the Bristol Post. "From the outside looking in, something certainly doesn't smell right and if the rule states that a player is unable to play for their club during the period they should have been on international duty, then I fancy West Ham could have a bit of a problem. "I do think that City have a great case for financial compensation because of how influential Sakho was on the game when coming off the bench to score the goal that ultimately separated the teams. "There is the financial windfall that would have come from both a replay and a potential fifth round tie to consider - and I wouldn't be surprised if City could make a claim of somewhere between £500,000 and £1,000,000."
Bristol City released a short statement a few moments ago in which they expressed their "disappointment" at West Ham's nominal fine.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Bristol City to 'consider options ' in wake of FIFA fine
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Bristol City have released a statement criticising FIFA's decision to fine West Ham for fielding Diafra Sakho in their FA Cup tie at Ashton Gate last month. Responding to FIFA's earlier statement, in which they confirmed West Ham had been fined CHF100,000 for using Sakho as a second half substitute, The Robins admitted to being "disappointed" at the governing body's decision. "Bristol City FC notes FIFA's decision with regards to the Disciplinary Committee's case against West Ham United and their player Diafra Sakho," read the club's statement. "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options. The club will be making no further comment at this time. "
City, who were knocked out of the FA Cup courtesy of Sakho's late winner in West Ham's 1-0 win are likely to consider an appeal, although legal action against West Ham is also an option. West Ham were awarded £90,000 for progressing to the 5th round of the FA Cup, whilst the FIFA fine equates to just £71,000. City have received no compensation, despite West Ham being found guilty of breaking FIFA rules.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Summer move planned - if Sam stays
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are planning to complete the signing of Genk defensive midfielder Kara Mbodj in the summer, having failed to push the deal through ahead of Monday night's transfer deadline. The 25-year-old defender was one of Sam Allardyce's key targets on the final day of the window, but concerns over specific contractual terms and the inability to proceed with a full medical (due to time constraints) saw the deal fall through.
Despite that, West Ham plan to revisit their bid in the summer, with the two clubs having already agreed a fee worth in the region of £4.5million. The deal's completion also depends on whether Sam Allardyce, whose contract expires at the end of the season, will remain in charge thereafter.
Mbodj, a Senegal international, began his career in Norway with Tromso - who he represented for two years before moving to Belgium in a €1.4million switch (in December 2012). He featured alongside West Ham's Cheik Kouyate in this year's African Cup of Nations.
Now managed by Alex McLeish, who used to work for David Sullivan at Birmingham, Mbodj is the latest of a long line of Premier League-bound stars to come from Genk; others to make Premier League moves in recent years include Thibaut Courtois, Kevin De Bruyne and Christian Benteke.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fined over Diafra Sakho's appearance against Bristol City
Last Updated: 04/02/15 6:58pm
SSN
West Ham have been fined £71,000 for fielding Diafra Sakho in the FA Cup win over Bristol City despite telling Senegal the striker was unfit. The club have also been reprimanded but they will be allowed to continue to play in this year's competition. Sakho, 25, had been due to join up with his national side at the Africa Cup of Nations but the Hammers informed the Senegalese FA that injury would prevent him from travelling to the tournament. On January 25, Sakho came off the substitutes' bench to score the only goal of the tie at Ashton Gate – prompting protest from the Senegalese authorities. West Ham issued a brief statement following FIFA's decision. "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday," it read.
A FIFA statement read: "FIFA can today confirm the decisions of its Disciplinary Committee in the case involving the English club West Ham United and the player Diafra Sakho. "Diafra Sakho was called up by the Senegalese Football Association on 18 December 2014 to play for Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations 2015 taking place in Equatorial Guinea between 17 January and 8 February 2015, as well as to attend the training camp of the said representative team from 5-16 January 2015 in Morocco. "The Senegalese FA was informed by West Ham United that Sakho was prevented from playing and travelling by plane due to injury and thus he did not join the Senegal team." "The Senegalese FA was informed by West Ham United that Sakho was prevented from playing and travelling by plane due to injury and thus he did not join the Senegal team. "On 25 January 2015, the player took part in an official match for his club West Ham United. Senegal were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations 2015 on 27 January 2015. "In view of the above and in accordance with art. 6 par. 1 of Annexe 1 of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (hereinafter the Regulations), disciplinary proceedings were opened against the player and the club for a potential violation of Annexe 1 of the Regulations. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has found the club and the player to have violated art. 5 of Annexe 1 of the Regulations in relation to the match played by Sakho on 25 January 2015. The club has been fined CHF 100,000 in accordance with art. 10 c) and art. 15 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC) and issued with a reprimand, while the player has been sanctioned with a reprimand in accordance with art. 10 b) and art. 14 of the FDC. "The terms of the decisions were notified to the relevant parties today."
Both Sakho and West Ham have been cleared to play in the next round as scheduled, where Sam Allardyce's side face West Brom. But Bristol City issued a a brief statement of their own following FIFA's ruling, hinting that this may not be the end of the matter as far as they are concerned. "Bristol City FC notes FIFA's decision with regards to the Disciplinary Committee's case against West Ham United and their player Diafra Sakho," the statement read. "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options. "The club will be making no further comment at this time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carlton Cole has been a fine servant for West Ham and deserved better than his treatment on Deadline Day
13:24, 4 February 2015
OPINION BY JOHNCROSS
The striker was on the verge of a switch to West Brom, only for the Hammers to block the deal at the last minute
The Mirror
Alan Curbishley hit the nail on the head. Sometimes we forget that there is a "moral" issue with footballers just as there is for anyone in any walk of life. On transfer deadline day, West Ham blocked Carlton Cole, a loyal player with just four months left on his contract, from joining West Brom on a two-and-a-half-year contract worth £5m which would probably the last big deal of his career.
It was a curious story which ended with 31-year-old Cole screaming down the phone at West Ham boss Sam Allardyce for stopping him from going to West Brom. But former West Ham boss Curbishley, now one of the best and most sensible pundits in the media, was one of Sky's experts on deadline day and put the whole Cole situation into perfect context. Curbishley said: "Sometimes there's a moral situation as well. Carlton Cole's contract is running out this summer and it looks like West Brom are offering him a longer contract. "Sometimes there's a moral issue when you feel as a manager and as a club that you've got to do what's right for the player. But invariably you are looking if it might back fire on you. "He's done a lot for West Ham, left then came back and needs to be playing regularly. With the length of the contract, I think sometimes morally you need to do what's right for the player even if perhaps it's not right for the club."
Sadly, West Ham blocked the move in the final few hours as their own attempts to sign Emmanuel Adebayor fell flat and they decided against allowing 31-year-old Cole from moving to West Brom. The day ended with Cole, at the West Brom training ground having done a medical and agreed personal terms on a £500,000 transfer, shouting down the phone at Allardyce: "you're f***ing wrecking my career." At the end of the season, Cole might struggle to get a decent deal. A lot of people at West Brom heard the shouting, with Cole pleading with Allardyce to let him go for the sake of his family and his career. Cole, who has had the best part of ten years at West Ham in two spells at the club, has been such a good pro that it is hard to believe he will refuse to play or anything like that. But others would.
That's because the collapse of his move to West Brom is only half the story. The other half is that West Ham did agree to allow Cole to go to Queens Park Rangers. Cole did not want to go there. That left Harry Redknapp, still in charge at QPR, furious.
Cole didn't want to go to QPR because he wanted to go to West Brom where he felt Tony Pulis would play him every week, it was an two and a half year deal and it would give him and his family long term security. West Ham agreed a £500,000 fee for him to join West Brom. Then they blocked it anyway. Cole felt West Brom really wanted him - and that was the key. In the end, Cole was pleading with Allardyce to let him go. He looks like he will be back to being fourth choice at West Ham. The worst scenario now for Cole is that he does not play for the rest of the season. Sometimes in football, no matter how well paid the players are, surely they deserve a little respect and goodwill. And, as Alan Curbishley said, it's almost a moral obligation. There's no doubt about it, Carlton Cole was the big loser in this window. He was left feeling like a piece of meat and while deadline day seems fun, there are some really nasty side effects, too.
Cole is a good solid pro who deserves better.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Diafra Sakho row may see Bristol City protest FIFA NOT kicking them out of FA Cup
22:30, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
League One club "disappointed and considering its options" after Hammers are only fined for playing Senegal striker during Africa Cup of Nations
The Mirror
West Ham face a fresh FA Cup battle with Bristol City after FIFA's decision not to kick the Irons out of the competition. The League One club are "considering" whether to protest after world football's governing body contracted their own rules by only fining the Irons £71,000 for fielding striker Diafra Sakho at Ashton Gate last month. Sakho pulled out of Senegal's squad for the Africa Cup of Nations with a back injury but scored the winner for West Ham 18 days later in their FA Cup Fourth Round tie to knock City out. If FIFA had applied their rules, City would have been reinstated and West Ham - set to play West Brom in the fifth round next Saturday - dumped out.
A statement from the Robins said: "The club is disappointed with the penalty handed down by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee and is considering its options."
FIFA launched an investigation after Senegal angrily complained about Sakho's FA Cup appearance. The FIFA rules state that a player cannot play for his club if he is meant to be on international duty. Article 5 reads: "A player who has been called up by his association for one of its representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered during the period for which he has been released or should have been released."
Article 6.2 adds: "If a club refuses to release a player or neglects to do so despite the provisions of this annexe, the Fifa Players' Status Committee shall furthermore request the association to which the club belongs to declare any match(es) in which the player took part to have been lost by the club concerned. "Any match contested according to the cup system shall be regarded as having been won by the opposing team, irrespective of the score."
It was angry Senegal - furious that Sakho played for West Ham 48 hours after they were knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations - who complained to FIFA. West Ham insisted Sakho had a back injury that prevented him from flying and claim he was driven to Ashton Gate in a limousine for the FA Cup tie. The east Londoners are not trying to draw a line under the affair. A Hammers' statement said: "The club and the player have received the decision and will now be focusing their concentration on the game against Manchester United on Sunday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR to put Mauro Zarate on fitness regime after bid to send Argentine back to West Ham failed
18:51, 4 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The Hoops were so unimpressed by Zarate's lack of fitness that they desperately tried to send him back to Upton Park in exchange for Matt Jarvis
The Mirror
Mauro Zarate will be put on a punishing fitness regime to get him in shape to join QPR's relegation fight. The west Londoners, unimpressed by his lack of fitness despite his desperation to play, tried to send the 27-year-old striker back to West Ham with winger Matt Jarvis instead going to Loftus Road. They were prevented from doing so, however, by Premier League rules which decree a player cannot rejoin a club he has left in the same window. Zarate, who joined QPR after complaining about his lack of action at Upton Park, stunned staff at Loftus Road with his lack of condition. The player featured just eight times for Sam Allardyce at West Ham and has so far played only 14 minutes out of the three games for which he has been available at QPR.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boleyn pub raises £5m in funds
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
West Ham have confirmed they have sold nearly 750 of 1,000 packages at the new Boleyn Bar based in the Olympic Stadium. Members will enjoy exclusive use of the bar and café, free half-time drinks and halfway line seats. They will enjoy access to every West Ham Premier League home fixture plus the first three cup games, priority for cup semi-finals and finals, a dedicated VIP entrance to the Stadium, and a complimentary matchday programme.
With 75% of the packages sold the Hammers have received £450,000 up front with a further £4.53m payable by monthly direct debt by members over the next three years.
Fans wanting to buy one of the remaining two hundred and fifty places are required to pay a joining fee of £600 with monthly direct debits of £168 beginning from June 2016. This price will remain fixed for the length of your membership making the £2016 per season on top on the £600 joining fee.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Academy cull continues
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The club have officially confirmed that West Ham academy players Kieran Sadlier and Ben Marlow have left the Club after their contracts were cancelled my mutual consent.
This brings the total number of Academy players officially released to six in the past week. The club previously confirmed Jamie Harney, Danny Whitehead, Blair Turgott and Matthias Fanimo have all left West Ham United after their contracts were cancelled my mutual consent. Blair Turgott signed for Coventry on transfer deadline day on a free transfer.
A host of other Academy players whose contract expire this summer are also thought to be under threat and their names could soon be added to this expanding list, They include Danny Potts, Seb Lletget, Paul Mccallum, Lewis Page, Taylor Tombides, Josh Cullen, Raphael Spiegel, Moses Makasi, Nathan Mavila, Amos Nasha and Sam Westley.
Terry Westley took over the Academy last Summer with Steve Potts announced as the Under 21 manager earlier this year . It is understood Terry has been tasked by the board with getting a return on the £4m plus investment made into the Academy every year.
The Hammers U21's remain bottom of the Premier League U21 league with eight points after losing eight of their 12 games this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer questions Jack's message
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 4, 2015 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
Former Hammer David James has questioned Jack Sullivan's message on Twitter on transfer deadline day saying he could have a negative impact on current West Ham players and morale. The Chairman of the Youth Supporters Club Jack Sullivan posted a message on twitter just before 11pm the January transfer window closed on Monday. saying "Sadly despite trying to do eight deals today everyone has collapsed in the last 2 hours and are now unlikely to do any business" The former Hammers keeper has suggested that young Sullivan should not have posted the message. James speaking on BT Sport on Tuesday night said "That's a lot of players to bring in, a lot of them were developmental players, or up and coming players, weren't they? You know when your club has failed to bring in eight players and you look around and think: 'Was it me who was going?' I don't think it's a good message to send out."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
http://www.avast.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
