19/07/2007 09:25
New first team coach Glynn Snodin says the pre-season training trip to
Austria has played a vital part in helping him to settle into life at West
Ham United.
The former Charlton and Southampton coach was appointed by Alan Curbishley
last month and, having travelled out to Graz with his new colleagues for a
week of training, matches and team bonding, admits that things couldn't have
gone better. "It's great to be away, because it gives everyone a chance to
get to know each other that much more," he says. "We're with each other
virtually 24-7, which means you get to know the characters and personalities
of people.
"We're on the training field morning and evening, eating together three
times a day, and there have also been a couple of squad activities, so it's
a good chance to build relationships and develop the team spirit. "From my
point of view, I obviously know Curbs and Merv, and a few of the backroom
staff, from my time at Charlton, which has made things easier, but I'm still
getting to know the players, and they have been fantastic. "There's a lot of
banter with me being a Yorkshireman - the Cockneys have given me a typical
welcome! - but there are a few other northern lads back at the training
ground, so I'm not completely on my own!"
Having been in the small village of Bad Radkersberg - near the south east
Austrian border - for three days now, Hammers have been training hard around
their two friendly matches, despite conditions being far from ideal. "It's
been unbelievably hot," he says Glynn. "The lads are training and playing in
temperatures of 35 degrees, and when you are this close to them you realise
how much work they put in. "They have worked extremely hard, and the work
has been real quality. These are players at the very top of their profession
and it just a pleasure to work with them. "The main thing when you are
coaching at this level is to have that mutual respect between each other,
and for the players to believe in what you are telling them. So far, it has
been a joy to coach them, and I'm sure they will prove their quality in the
Premier League next season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United FC Official Statement - WHUFC
19/07/2007 11:08
WEST HAM UNITED CLUB STATEMENT
West Ham United totally rejects the latest outburst and threats issued in
the name of Kia Joorabchian in relation to the situation regarding Carlos
Tevez.
We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered. Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements with
the previous regime at West Ham United at a time in which he was attempting
to take over the Club. Those arrangements, since terminated by West Ham
United, led the Club into serious disciplinary difficulties for which the
Club has paid a heavy price. It is absolutely clear that the only contract
relating to Carlos Tevez recognised by West Ham United and the Premier
League is the player's four-year contract which runs until June 2010. All
other arrangements were terminated by West Ham on 27th April 2007 and no
legal challenge to that termination has occurred. West Ham United can also
confirm that all documentation regarding the Club and Carlos Tevez has
already been submitted to the Premier League and fully scrutinised by them.
We have ensured full disclosure. The Club has in recent weeks made every
effort to keep Carlos Tevez at West Ham United and indeed offered
significantly improved terms and conditions to the player, which were not
accepted. However, a transfer of a properly registered player cannot occur
without agreement between two clubs and the Premier League. Without such an
agreement we believe that it is in the interest of all parties to resolve
this issue as quickly as possible through the procedures laid down by FIFA.
Public threats and accusations are irrelevant, let FIFA decide and West Ham
United will accept that judgement whatever the outcome. The time has come to
settle this matter in a way which will allow everyone concerned to move on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tickets for Roma friendly on sale - WHUFC
19/07/2007 14:13
Tickets for our prestigious pre-season friendly match against Italian giants
AS Roma at Upton Park on Saturday 4th August are now on sale.
Match ticket prices have been reduced for all supporters, with Season Ticket
Holders (Adult/Senior/Young Adult) booking during their priority period
receiving a 40% discount and Academy Members (Adult/Senior/Young Adult)
booking during their priority period receiving a 20% discount from Standard
Tickets.
All Under 16s/Under 10s Season Ticket Holders and all Youth Academy Members
will be able to gain entry to the game at the reduced price of £1.00.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Government and FA to press Fifa - BBC
The British government and the Football Association will unite to press Fifa
to investigate the question of third party ownership of players. Carlos
Tevez's proposed transfer from West Ham to Manchester United has brought the
matter under the spotlight. BBC Sport has learned the Government fears the
integrity of the game could be damaged by the practice. A Whitehall source
said: "We don't want third-party ownership in British football, we want it
dealt with."
The Department of Media, Culture and Science has called for a probe at "the
highest international level." Fifa is to set up a dispute resolution chamber
in the coming weeks to determine whether Tevez is owned by West Ham, or his
advisor Kia Joorabchian. The Premier League has also insisted that any deal
to transfer the Argentine from West Ham to Manchester United is conducted
between the two clubs. Manchester United have already asked Fifa to
intervene in the protracted dispute between the Old Trafford club and West
Ham. West Ham refused Tevez permission to take a medical when he arrived in
Manchester to undergo one on Tuesday and the Hammers have asserted their
rights over the Argentine. The Hammers were fined a record £5m but
controversially avoided a points deduction when the Premier League found
them guilty of irregularities over his registration. Sheffield United, who
were relegated from the Premiership, have mounted a long but fruitless
campaign to be reinstated in the top flight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers hit back - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 19th July 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham United have hit back at Kia Joorabchian in the ensuing Carlos Tevez
row. In a club statement released this lunchtime United hit out at
Joorabchian and the MSI Group, accusing them of 'public mudslinging'
following comments made last night. Joorabchian had accused United of being
'wholly inconsistent with the real circumstances' and of making 'repeated
promises and assurances which they have not acted upon or performed' in a
statement released on behalf of the MSI Group, who claim ownership of
Tevez's financial rights, last night. "We wish to make clear that at all
times it has been our intention to find an amicable solution and Carlos
Tevez has, at no time, acted improperly in relation to his move to
Manchester United Football Club as he was given permission via his
representatives to talk to other clubs to reach an amicable agreement," the
statment added. "West Ham have consistently provided private assurances
while at the same time making contrary statements to the public at large.
"It is now time for these inconsistencies to be brought to an end. We see no
alternative but to bring the true circumstances to the attention if a higher
authority to aid a rapid conclusion to this issue."
But the Hammers slammed MSI's comments in today's statement, labelling
Joorabchian and MSI's continued public outbursts 'irrelevant'. "West Ham
United totally rejects the latest outburst and threats issued in the name of
Kia Joorabchian in relation to the situation regarding Carlos Tevez," said
the statement.
"We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered. "Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements
with the previous regime at West Ham United at a time in which he was
attempting to take over the Club. Those arrangements, since terminated by
West Ham United, led the Club into serious disciplinary difficulties for
which the Club has paid a heavy price. "It is absolutely clear that the only
contract relating to Carlos Tevez recognised by West Ham United and the
Premier League is the player's four-year contract which runs until June
2010. All other arrangements were terminated by West Ham on 27th April 2007
and no legal challenge to that termination has occurred.
West Ham United can also confirm that all documentation regarding the Club
and Carlos Tevez has already been submitted to the Premier League and fully
scrutinised by them. We have ensured full disclosure."
The statement also confirmed that the club had 'made every effort' to ensure
Tevez remained at the club with an improved deal tabled - an offer that was
subsequently rejected. The row is now set to fall under the jurisdiction of
FIFA, whom all involved parties have agreed should have the final say.
However the saga is unlikely to be resolved within the next few days, as
Manchester United - and possibly both West Ham United and the MSI Group too
- had hoped.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shorey flattered by Hammers - Sky
By Graeme Bailey - Created on 19 Jul 2007
England full-back Nicky Shorey admits he is flattered by reported interest
being shown in him by West Ham. The Hammers need to bolster their options at
left-back after letting Paul Konchesky join Fulham and the Reading man
appears to be high on Alan Curbishley's list of targets. Shorey is a
life-long West Ham fan and the club are now understood to be lining up a
£5million for the 26-year-old. "It's flattering to hear they might be
interested, we'll just have to see what happens," Shorey told the Daily
Mail. Shorey is currently in talks with Reading over a new deal, but he is
yet to be offered terms. "My agent has been dealing with my contract, but,
so far, I haven't received an offer," he revealed. "I don't know what's
going to happen, I want to see where Reading see me in their plans and also
where the club is going."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers reject Tevez claims - Sky
By Mark Buckingham - Created on 19 Jul 2007
West Ham United 'totally reject' Kia Joorabchian's accusations regarding the
Carlos Tevez affair. Tevez is aiming to secure a move to Manchester United
and his agent Joorabchian released a statement on Wednesday claiming The
Hammers had gone back on previous promises. The London club have now
responded to Joorabchian's comments and insist Tevez is under contract Upton
Park for a further three years. "West Ham United totally rejects the latest
outburst and threats issued in the name of Kia Joorabchian in relation to
the situation regarding Carlos Tevez," read a club statement.
"We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging, but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered. "Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements
with the previous regime at West Ham United at a time in which he was
attempting to take over the club. Those arrangements, since terminated by
West Ham United, led the club into serious disciplinary difficulties for
which the club has paid a heavy price. "It is absolutely clear that the only
contract relating to Carlos Tevez recognised by West Ham United and the
Premier League is the player's four-year contract which runs until June
2010. All other arrangements were terminated by West Ham on 27th April 2007
and no legal challenge to that termination has occurred."
Meanwhile, the club have also confirmed the intention to allow Fifa to
adjudicate on Tevez's proposed transfer to Old Trafford. The statement
continued: "The club has in recent weeks made every effort to keep Carlos
Tevez at West Ham United and indeed offered significantly improved terms and
conditions to the player, which were not accepted. "However, a transfer of a
properly registered player cannot occur without agreement between two clubs
and the Premier League. "Without such an agreement we believe that it is in
the interest of all parties to resolve this issue as quickly as possible
through the procedures laid down by Fifa. "Public threats and accusations
are irrelevant, let Fifa decide and West Ham United will accept that
judgement whatever the outcome. The time has come to settle this matter in a
way which will allow everyone concerned to move on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rooney eyes Tevez partnership - Sky
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 19 Jul 2007
Wayne Rooney is confident Carlos Tevez would be a fine partner for him
should the Argentinian sign for Manchester United. Sir Alex Ferguson wants
to add Tevez this summer, but is being frustrated by West Ham, who are
digging their heels in an attempt to hang onto the striker. Rooney is hoping
Tevez will eventually be a United player and expects the 23-year-old to be a
huge hit at Old Trafford. "He's a great player," Rooney told Sky Sports
News. "He did fantastic for West Ham last season in helping them to stay up.
"If he signs I'm sure he'll be a great player for us, with the attacking
options we've got already. "He'd be a good partner for me to play with and
if he signs it'll be great for the team."
Tevez would be the third attack-minded arrival at United, following the
signings of Nani and Anderson. Rooney is excited about the prospects for the
new season, but admits the pressure will be on to keep performing with the
increased competition for places. "I think with the signings of Nani and
Anderson, more attacking players, it will make it a bit more exciting for
us. "It'll be a bit more difficult to keep your place, you'll have to play
well every game so that'll be tough for all of us, the competition for
places."
Owen Hargreaves has also joined from Bayern Munich, and Rooney added:
"Obviously a few of the lads know him from playing with him with England.
"We know what he gives us, he's a good solid player."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Class - WHO
left-wing - Thu Jul 19 2007
I've been reading and watching the growing criticism of West Ham over the
last few weeks with an ever increasing annoyance. The media, especially the
more right-wing papers, have been continually slagging us off for buying
players at an inflated price on supposedly high wages, behaving as though we
are the first to commit such a cardinal footballing sin. Inflated wages and
price tags have been around ever since the inception of the Premier League.
The difference is that its always been the "Big" rich, clubs that have done
it, so therefore it's OK. When clubs like Wigan and Bolton have done wells
it's been on reasonably modest budgets and with the careful choosing of
players by the manager,that and building on a pretty solid base. The big
clubs have continued to monopolise the the really big signings on huge
weekly wage bills, but that's OK, because it's Man Utd, Chelsea or
Liverpool.
Now we have had the audacity to start buying several, multi million pound
players, we are killing football? Please!
We have been a club that has lived on a tradition of trying to play, good,
entertaining, flowing football for years, and everyone loved it. Everyone
was happy that we never won anything playing, "the West Ham way".
We were like the kid who always gave it his all. We had the the best boots,
the kit, but were basically never going to be good enough to get in the
first team. People would ruffle our collective hair and tell us to keep
trying, then saunter off with the proper players. Well, now thats changed.
We have the money to buy, pretty much the players we want. We have the money
to pay them the wages. We don't have to shop in the bargain basement
anymore. And, they don't like it.
And thats the point; we have moved the Status Quo. We're not a club that's
looked at as everyone's "second team", we're a club that can afford to be a
little nasty, and spiteful. No, we haven't quite reached the level of the
top four yet, but we can, and they know it, and they don't like it. They
don't like it that West Ham, in the next few years, can become a genuine
force in the Premiership. They want us kept in our place. "Bottom half or
middle, with the occasional good season. There you go West Ham, good lads"
Well, up yours!
Of course, the same as anyone that suddenly comes into money that they're
not used to, we're going to make mistakes, like the lottery winner not
knowing what fork to use in the Ritz, (look at the current farce! ) But
we're going to get used to it, and quickly. Magnuson knows football. His
backers have and understand money and the power it creates, that above all
else will be our defining strength. For the first time in our history, our
long term future is looking very good. Personally, I can't wait to start
elbowing our way in at the big boys table, and knocking a few wine glasses
over.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers in the hunt for Dyer - TeamTalk
West Ham's campaign to recruit football's most controversial characters
continues with reports of interest in Newcastle's Kieron Dyer. Having
already recruited Craig Bellamy this summer, the Hammers are interested in
one of his best mates according to the Evening Chronicle. A move would
reunite Dyer with Lee Bowyer two years after their on-field scrap while
playing for the same Newcastle team against Aston Villa. Dyer has been at
Newcastle for eight years but injury problems have restricted him to just
190 Premiership appearances. He still has two years remaining on his
contract but was said to be devastated after being booed off the pitch by
Newcastle fans in his last appearance in a black-and-white shirt. Dyer is on
phenomenal wages at United but West Ham would have little trouble matching
those terms.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DYER TO JOIN WEST HAM? - Football365
Posted 19/07/07 12:53
West Ham's campaign to recruit football's most controversial characters
continues with reports of interest in Kieron Dyer. Having already recruited
Craig Bellamy this summer, the Hammers are said by the Evening Chronicle to
be interested in one of his best mates. A move would reunite Dyer with Lee
Bowyer two years after their on-field scrap whole playing for the same
Newcastle team against Aston Villa. Dyer has been at Newcastle for eight
years but injury problems have restricted him to just 190 Premiership
appearances. He still has two years remaining on his contract but was said
to be devastated after being booed off the pitch by Newcastle fans in his
last appearance in a black-and-white shirt. Dyer is on phenomenal wages at
United but West Ham would have little trouble matching those terms.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham refute Joorabchian claims
'We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging'
Roberto Kusabbi and agencies
Thursday July 19, 2007
Guardian Unlimited
West Ham today hit back at Kia Joorabchian, refuting his assertion they had
made misleading statements about Tevez and reiterating their claim that they
owned the player outright. The club was reacting to Joorabchian's threat to
bring "the true circumstances" of Tevez's position to the attention of "a
higher authority" - presumably Fifa, who were called in yesterday by
Manchester United to arbitrate the transfer.
"We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered," read a statement posted on the West Ham
website. "Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements with the previous regime at
West Ham at a time in which he was attempting to take over the club.
"Those arrangements, since terminated by West Ham, led the club into serious
disciplinary difficulties for which the club has paid a heavy price. It is
absolutely clear that the only contract relating to Carlos Tevez recognised
by West Ham and the Premier League is the player's four-year contract which
runs until June 2010."
West Ham also insist that they tried their best to persuade Tevez to stay by
offering him a "significantly improved contract", which he rejected.
Under Premier League rules a transfer of a registered player cannot occur
without agreement between two clubs and the Premier League. West Ham insist
that they are happy to accept a Fifa decision and believe that: "The time
has come to settle this matter in a way which will allow everyone concerned
to move on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Egg Scrambles Kia Statement With Hard Boiled West Ham Response - West Ham
fans.org
Submitted by Neville Nixon on 19 July, 2007 - 10:43.
Well it had to happen didn't it? Eggert Magnusson is typical of many
vertically challenged people in that he doesn't like to be pushed around, he
likes it even less when the 'bullies' hide behind their lawyers, the
inevitability of West Ham's answer to Joorabchian, Manchester United and
their press allies was always going to be put up or shut up.
Fans that should really be following the potential signings of Nicky Shorey
or Roque Santa Cruz are instead still being inundated with 'Tevez Talk'.
There is also the extremely worrying injury to Jules Faubert to think about,
but Tevezgate will not go away, why should Hammers lay down and get shafted
just because old red face and his cheesy business accomplices want to walk
over a 'smaller' club? Ironically Fergie, when questioned about the
potential departure of Gabriel Heinze said that there was no way he would
allow the player to end up at Liverpool, and yet the Mancs manager expects
West Ham to just roll over and die when it comes to where Tevez goes!.
Here is the club statement in full.... . WEST HAM UNITED CLUB STATEMENT West
Ham United totally rejects the latest outburst and threats issued in the
name of Kia Joorabchian in relation to the situation regarding Carlos Tevez.
We will not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered. Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements with
the previous regime at West Ham United at a time in which he was attempting
to take over the Club. Those arrangements, since terminated by West Ham
United, led the Club into serious disciplinary difficulties for which the
Club has paid a heavy price. It is absolutely clear that the only contract
relating to Carlos Tevez recognised by West Ham United and the Premier
League is the player's four-year contract which runs until June 2010. All
other arrangements were terminated by West Ham on 27th April 2007 and no
legal challenge to that termination has occurred. West Ham United can also
confirm that all documentation regarding the Club and Carlos Tevez has
already been submitted to the Premier League and fully scrutinised by them.
We have ensured full disclosure. The Club has in recent weeks made every
effort to keep Carlos Tevez at West Ham United and indeed offered
significantly improved terms and conditions to the player, which were not
accepted. However, a transfer of a properly registered player cannot occur
without agreement between two clubs and the Premier League. Without such an
agreement we believe that it is in the interest of all parties to resolve
this issue as quickly as possible through the procedures laid down by FIFA.
Public threats and accusations are irrelevant, let FIFA decide and West Ham
United will accept that judgement whatever the outcome. The time has come to
settle this matter in a way which will allow everyone concerned to move on.
.
Good on you Eggy, it's what fans wanted to hear, get in there my son. - Ed
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers blast back at Joorabchian - Daily Mail
Last updated at 11:55am on 19th July 2007
West Ham have publicly rejected claims by Kia Joorabchian that they have
made "inconsistent" statements about the status of Carlos Tevez. The
player's agent accused the club of failing to act upon "repeated promises
and assurances" over the Argentina international's proposed move to
Manchester United.
Joorabchian is still believed to hold the player's economic rights but West
Ham and the Premier League are adamant that United must deal directly with
them and not Joorabchian to settle the matter. A statement posted on the
West Ham official website www,whufc.com read: "West Ham United totally
rejects the latest outburst and threats issued in the name of Kia
Joorabchian in relation to the situation regarding Carlos Tevez. "We will
not be drawn into this form of public mudslinging but these latest
statements cannot go unanswered. "Mr Joorabchian entered into agreements
with the previous regime at West Ham United at a time in which he was
attempting to take over the club. Those arrangements, since terminated by
West Ham United, led the club into serious disciplinary difficulties for
which the club has paid a heavy price. "It is absolutely clear that the only
contract relating to Carlos Tevez recognised by West Ham United and the
Premier League is the player's four-year contract which runs until June
2010. "All other arrangements were terminated by West Ham on April 27, 2007
and no legal challenge to that termination has occurred."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOREY WANTS A ROYAL SEAL - Daily Mail
Thursday July 19,2007
By Matt Law Have your say(0)
NICKY SHOREY wants to know whether Reading can match his England ambitions
as West Ham prepare to make a £5million bid for the defender. Shorey's
contract with the Royals runs out in 2009 and, following an impressive first
season in the Premiership after which he won his first England cap, the
26-year-old has been the subject of an enquiry from West Ham. Reading have
told Shorey they want to give him a new deal, but are yet to put a firm
offer to him. The club return from their tour of Korea at the end of this
week and the former Leyton Orient man is hoping to get some answers once he
is back in England.
"My agent has been dealing with my contract, but, so far, I haven't received
an offer," said Shorey from Reading's Korean base. "Things should become a
little clearer when we get back to England. "I don't know what's going to
happen. I want to see where Reading see me in their plans and also where the
club are going."
West Ham are willing to pay up to £5m for Shorey, who was born a stone's
throw from the Hammers' Chadwell Heath training ground. "I have a few family
connections with West Ham and it's flattering to hear they might be
interested in me. We'll just have to see what happens," he said. Apart from
protecting his Premiership future, Shorey also needs to think about his
international ambitions after making his England debut against Brazil at the
start of last month. Shorey lost his place in Steve McClaren's squad for the
Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia when Wayne Bridge was passed fit.
Chelsea have confirmed, however, that Bridge will miss the start of the new
season following a hip operation, catapulting Shorey back into the frame for
England's friendly against Germany and their two vital qualifying games
against Israel and Russia in September. "Obviously, it has gone through my
head that with Wayne being injured there may be an opportunity for me with
England," said Shorey. "I don't automatically think it will be me who steps
in, though, because there are a lot of good left-backs around at the moment.
"Maybe a few years ago it would have been easier but these days there is a
lot more competition. If I'm going to get back into the England squad, then
I'll need to start the season very well. "I suppose it does put a bit of
extra pressure on me but it will also give me a goal to aim for. "People
will be watching to see whether I was a one-season wonder or whether I can
maintain my performances. I need to prove I can be among the top left-backs
in the country on a consistent basis."
Talk of multi-million-pound transfers and England recalls is a world away
from Shorey's early days as a lower-league footballer with Leyton Orient.
But he insists he now feels totally at home mixing with such superstars as
David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney. "Things have changed
unbelievably for me, but I actually felt very comfortable in the dressing
room with people like Beckham and Rooney," said Shorey. "All of the players
and the staff made me feel very welcome and I wouldn't feel at all nervous
about being around them again. "It does feel a little bit odd talking about
clubs wanting to sign me and playing for England, but it is a sign of how
much my game has progressed. "Playing in the Premiership and for your
country is the ultimate for any footballer."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Neill ready for redemption - news.co.au
July 20, 2007 12:00am
STRUGGLING Socceroo Lucas Neill is set for a reprieve after midfielder Luke
Wilkshire was ruled out of Saturday night's quarter-final against Japan.
Tournament officials confirmed today Wilkshire would miss the match -
Football Federation Australia told the player had picked up a second group
stage yellow card in the 4-0 win over Thailand last Monday. It was a
caution which snuck under the guard of all - Wilkshire himself bemused by
picking up a card soon after Australia's third goal for an offence which
remains a mystery to all including the Dutch-based midfielder. Neill,
Australia's player of the World Cup, now has a chance for redemption after a
wretched Asian Cup. The West Ham defender missed the Thailand game through
suspension himself, earning the public wrath of coach Graham Arnold for his
needless late red card for dissent in the 3-1 loss to Iraq. He has also been
hopelessly out of sorts in his two Asian Cup appearances to date. But in a
re-match of one of his finest hours - the 3-1 World Cup win over Japan in
which he played superbly - Neill is set to slot into a back three alongside
Mark Milligan and Michael Beauchamp. Brett Emerton, who played that role
against Thailand, is likely to be moved to fill Wilkshire's wide right
midfield position against the Japanese. Socceroos star Harry Kewell, benched
against Thailand, and Australia's player of the tournament so far Tim
Cahill, are set to come into contention for starting roles, though they may
both be used for impact off the bench. Cahill scored twice against the
Japanese as a substitute at the World Cup. Australia closed their training
sessions in Hanoi today, but according to goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer have not
yet started practising for penalties. Extra-time will come into play if
scores are deadlocked at the end of 90 minutes, with a penalty shootout to
follow if no breakthrough after 30 minutes added time - a scenario the
Socceroos are familiar with following their 2005 World Cup qualifier heroics
against Uruguay. Schwarzer saved two Uruguay penalties in that match to earn
himself national hero status before John Aloisi sealed Australia's passage
to their first World Cup finals in 32 years. But Schwarzer, who was also a
penalty shootout hero in a 1993 World Cup qualifier against Canada, said he
preferred to not practise saving penalties in training. "We haven't been
practising yet here - obviously we only arrived two days ago," Schwarzer
said. "I'm not one that likes practising penalties anyway. "Records don't
mean much in that situation - every penalty shootout is different and I'm
happy for the game to end 1-0 in our favour and not have to worry about
penalty shootouts."
The Socceroos have also arrived in Vietnam in the midst of a heatwave in the
country's north - where Hanoi is situated. Vietnam's weather bureau reported
today the high temperatures - with maximums of up to 38 degrees in the Hanoi
area - are set to continue until match day at least.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbishley eyes more new faces - Clubcall
20070719 10:24
Alan Curbishley says he wants to sign at least two more new players before
West Ham start their new Premiership campaign. The Hammers have already made
four new signings this summer, with Curbishley apturing Craig Bellamy, Scott
Parker, Julian Faubert and Richard Wright. The manager has also manged to
move some of his squad players on this month, which means Curbishley now has
further funds to spend on more new faces. The former Charlton boss
admitted: "I think I've got a squad that is young, agressive, quick and
hopefully can play a bit. I'm pleased with the players we've brought in and
hopefully, we can bring a couple more in, because I want to do that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Premier League Rumour Mill: Hammers look to LuaLua -Daily Mail
By DANNY GRIFFITHS - More by this author »
West Ham are putting the Carlos Tevez affair to one side to concentrate on
beefing up their current strikeforce. Craig Bellamy has already been added
to the attack from Liverpool and Dean Ashton is finally back from the injury
which sidelined him for all of last season. But the Hammers have allowed
Marlon Harewood to join Aston Villa and may let Bobby Zamora join Reading or
Blackburn if they receive the right offer. Upton park officials have
identified a number of overseas targets and closer to home they are
considering a move for Portsmouth forward Lomana LuaLua but face competition
from Wigan. West Ham are also trying to shore up their defence by signing
Nicky Shorey from the Royals.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham accused by agent in Tevez move - Telegraph
By Giles Mole and agencies
Last Updated: 10:19am BST 19/07/2007
Kia Joorabchian, the agent of Manchester United target Carlos Tevez, has
accused West Ham of making inconsistent statements about the player's
future.
Joorabchian, who is trying to negotiate Tevez's move to Old Trafford, has
accused West Ham of failing to act upon "repeated promises and assurances"
with regard to the player's possible transfer. He has confirmed his
intention to bring "the true circumstances" to the attention of both Fifa
and the Football Association. World governing body Fifa have already been
called in to end the deadlock surrounding Tevez's proposed transfer. A
planned medical for the 24-year-old has been cancelled, with United
officials confirming that while Tevez did visit United's Carrington training
complex yesterday - meeting, amongst others, captain Gary Neville - he has
not undergone any physical examination, which would have been conducted away
from club premises anyway. United have attempted to distance themselves from
the argument surrounding Tevez's registration, although it is obvious they
believe Joorabchian, not West Ham, is the party who has control over the
Argentina star. Joorabchian also believes he owns the player's rights and a
statement released by lawyers representing the Iranian businessman and his
company MSI read: "Press statements both today [Wednesday] and over the last
few weeks are wholly inconsistent with the real circumstances and the
situation presented to us by West Ham concerning Carlos Tevez. "We as a
company have patiently kept away from the issues including West Ham in order
to give the club the opportunity to resolve the matter in a legal and
agreeable way acceptable to all parties. "West Ham have consistently
provided private assurances while at the same time making contrary
statements to the public at large. "We can no longer allow these
inconsistencies to continue unaddressed. "We wish to make clear that at all
times it has been our intention to find an amicable solution and Carlos
Tevez has, at no time, acted improperly in relation to his move to
Manchester United Football Club as he was given permission via his
representatives to talk to other clubs to reach an amicable agreement. "Over
the last six months West Ham have made repeated promises and assurances
which they have not acted upon or performed. It is now time for these
inconsistencies to be brought to an end. "We see no alternative but to bring
the true circumstances to the attention of a higher authority to aid a rapid
conclusion to this issue."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment