16/08/2007 19:48
West Ham United is extremely disappointed that Sheffield United has seen fit
to embark on this latest desperate action. Not only does Sheffield United's
claim lack legal merit, but it is also based on Sheffield United's incorrect
belief that West Ham United withheld an agreement from the Premier League
and the April Disciplinary Commission.
In fact, long before the disciplinary hearing, West Ham United made the
Premier League fully aware of the existence and status of the agreement in
question. This agreement was then included in the documentation produced for
the Disciplinary Commission who were therefore also aware of its existence
throughout the proceedings.
Sheffield United's latest assertions clearly demonstrate a fundamental
misunderstanding of the situation and any proceedings brought by them will
be vigorously defended by West Ham United.
In the meantime, West Ham United and its new owners will not permit these
repeated slurs to go unchallenged and are in discussions with their legal
advisers in relation to the action they might take.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham complete signing of Dyer - BBC
West Ham have signed England midfielder Kieron Dyer from Newcastle. The
deal, believed to be in the region of £6m, was revived and completed two
weeks after Hammers boss Alan Curbshley said it was "definitely off".
Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce claimed the original deal collapsed after the
Hammers refused to pay an escalated fee of £8m for Dyer. The 28-year-old
Dyer was keen to leave St James' Park to move south and be nearer to his
family. Dyer said: "I think it was well documented that I wanted to be
nearer to my family, but I also see West Ham as a club that is really going
places. "A lot of the players that have signed have a bit of a point to
prove as have the players who came so close to relegation last season so
everyone shares that hunger which can only be a good thing." Curbishley
added: "We're delighted to get the player in. "If you look at his history
over the last couple of years he missed a lot of games with his hamstring -
but once he got it sorted, he played 33 games and scored eight goals. "He
also played for England against Spain, Brazil and Andorra - so he is a
current England international, and we are delighted to have him on board."
The two clubs had initially agreed a fee of £6m for Dyer, but Newcastle
thought they had undervalued the player and increased their valuation.
"Common sense has prevailed, and Kieron is looking forward to joining us,"
added Curbishley. Dyer joined Newcastle for £6.5m from Ipswich in July 1999,
but his time on Tyneside was blighted by injury. He has also had his share
of disciplinary problems, on and off the field of play. The Ipswich-born
midfielder has won 32 England caps, and his home-town club will receive a
percentage of any profit Newcastle make on the sale.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers paired with Bristol - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 16th August 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham face a tricky away tie against Bristol Rovers in the second round
of the Carling Cup. Alan Curbishley's side were drawn away to the League One
outfit in tonight's draw; the match will take place in the week beginning
August 27th. The tie will be the first meeting between the sides since 1995
when the Hammers won a two-legged League Cup tie 4-0 on aggregate. John
Moncur scored the only goal of the first tie played away from home, with
goals from Ian Bishop, Trevor Morley and Julian Dicks securing a 3-0 home
win in the return leg. The Pirates - who knocked Championship side Crystal
Palace out in the first round after a penalty shootout - finished sixth in
last season's League Two before gaining promotion by beating Shrewsbury 3-1
in the play-off final, having beaten Lincoln in the semi-final.
* West Ham's ticket allocation at the 12,000 capacity Memorial Stadium is
likely to be around 1,500.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
And not before time ... - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 16th August 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham United have hit back at Sheffield United, calling their decision to
sue for damages 'desperate'. In a strongly worded statement, released via
whufc.com tonight, the club hit back at the Blades who announced their
decision to take legal action this morning. And in a move roundly applauded
by Hammers fans sickened by the constant lies and mistruths spread by
Sheffield United and their chairman Kevin McCabe, the Hammers announced that
they now intended to seek legal advice of their own. "West Ham United is
extremely disappointed that Sheffield United has seen fit to embark on this
latest desperate action," read the statement. "Not only does Sheffield
United's claim lack legal merit, but it is also based on Sheffield United's
incorrect belief that West Ham United withheld an agreement from the Premier
League and the April Disciplinary Commission. "Sheffield United's latest
assertions clearly demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the
situation and any proceedings brought by them will be vigorously defended by
West Ham United," the statement continued, before the Hammers issued their
sternest threat yet: "In the meantime, West Ham United and its new owners
will not permit these repeated slurs to go unchallenged and are in
discussions with their legal advisers in relation to the action they might
take."
Irons fans have urged the club to hit back at the Blades after the Yorkshire
club launched a series of legal challenges designed to reinstate them to the
Premiership. Blades chairman McCabe has repeatedly called Carlos Tevez's
transfer 'illegal' - something which he may live to regret given West Ham's
stance tonight.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer-mond geezer - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 16th August 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Kieron Dyer has expressed his delight at finally clinching a move to West
Ham. The Ipswich-born midfielder had previously expressed a wish to return
south in order to be closer to his young children - comments which left some
Hammers fans questioning his desire to play for the club. But 28-year-old
Dyer - who cost the Hammers around £7m - told today how he was happy to move
to East London as he was joining a club 'going places'.
Speaking to whufc.com this afternoon, he said: "I think it was well
documented that I wanted to be nearer to my family, but I also see West Ham
as a Club that is really going places. They have shown great ambition with
the players they have brought in. "A lot of the players that have signed
have a bit of a point to prove - as have the players who came so close to
relegation last season. Everyone shares that hunger - which can only be a
good thing. "A couple of weeks ago I thought it was the end of the move and
I was devastated. But thankfully the two clubs have come to an agreement and
I am finally a West Ham player."
Dyer is likely to be thrust straight into the side to face Birmingham on
Saturday afternoon, just 48 hours after his capture was confirmed. However
that is not a situation that phases him. "One of my strengths is my ability
to hit the ground running, so even though I have had a bit of a stop start
pre-season if the manager asks me to play at Birmingham on Saturday I would
be totally up for the challenge," he added. "I think the gaffer sees me as
quite a versatile player who can play through the centre. But if I am
required to step in to cover for any of the wide players that would be okay
because I am comfortable on the left or the right - and happy at full-back
as well."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer attracted by ambition - SSN
Midfielder confident Hammers are going places
By Lewis Rutledge Last updated: 17th August 2007
Kieron Dyer has revealed he is excited and relieved to finally become a West
Ham player. Dyer's transfer to Upton Park looked to have fallen through at
the start of the month when Newcastle changed their valuation of the player
at the last minute. The England midfielder had announced that he wanted to
leave Newcastle to be closer to his family, and he admits he was very
disappointed when the move did not go through straight away. But the two
clubs settled on a deal on Thursday and Dyer is now relishing the prospect
of playing for The Hammers. He has been impressed by Alan Curbishley's
summer signings and believes the club can be a real force in the Premier
League in the future. "I thought it was the end of the move and I was
devastated, but thankfully the clubs have come to an agreement and I am
finally a West Ham player," said Dyer in The Sun. "It was well documented I
wanted to be nearer to my family - but I also see West Ham as a club that is
really going places. "They have shown great ambition with the other players
they have brought in and I just love the hunger of the club to be
successful."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers blast Blades - SSN
By Peter O'Rourke Last updated: 16th August 2007
West Ham have described Sheffield United's intention to sue them for the
cost of relegation as "desperate". The Blades have started legal action in
order to gain compensation from West Ham after failing in their High Court
bid to force a new Premier League action over the Carlos Tevez affair. The
Bramall Lane outfit have estimated the cost of their relegation at between
£30million and £50million. West Ham were fined £5.5million by the Premier
League over the Tevez affair in April. Sheffield United believe they should
have been docked points for such a serious breach of rules but failed in
their attempts to have the original punishment changed or the hearing
reconvened. The Blades are suing over a breach of contract and claim to have
evidence which proves West Ham "misled" the original arbitration independent
panel by failing to disclose vital information relating to their arrangement
with Tevez's adviser Kia Joorabchian.
West Ham have responded to United's action and they are unhappy with the
Yorkshire club's stance. "We are extremely disappointed that Sheffield
United have seen fit to embark on this latest desperate action," read a West
Ham statement. "Not only does Sheffield United's claim lack legal merit, but
it is also based on their incorrect belief that West Ham withheld an
agreement from the Premier League and the April disciplinary commission. "In
fact, long before the disciplinary hearing, West Ham United made the Premier
League fully aware of the existence and status of the agreement in question.
"This agreement was then included in the documentation produced for the
disciplinary commission, who were therefore also aware of its existence
throughout the proceedings.
"Sheffield United's latest assertions clearly demonstrate a fundamental
misunderstanding of the situation, and any proceedings brought by them will
be vigorously defended by West Ham. "In the meantime, West Ham and the new
owners will not permit these repeated slurs to go unchallenged and are in
discussions with their legal advisers in relation to the action they might
take."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs not hopeful on Eidur - SSN
Hammers boss cool on Gudjohnsen and Barnes
By Lewis Rutledge Last updated: 16th August 2007
Alan Curbishley has played down the chances of Eidur Gudjohnsen and Giles
Barnes signing for West Ham. Curbishley continued his summer recruitment
drive on Thursday by finally concluding a deal with Newcastle for Kieron
Dyer. The Hammers have also been linked with Barcelona striker Gudjohnsen
and highly-rated Derby winger Barnes, but Curbishley is not planning to step
up his pursuit of either player. He said: "Eidur Gudjohnsen is not fit and
is battling away to get fit, so there is nothing in it at the moment. He's a
Barcelona player. "We did inquire about Giles Barnes. We made an offer and
it was rejected. "We are entitled to make bids for players, but he's injured
as well at the moment and Derby want to keep him. "But the transfer window
is still open, and we are still active. We're still short in one or two
areas."
Dyer's arrival will see him reunited with former Newcastle team-mates Craig
Bellamy, Scott Parker and Lee Bowyer, who he famously clashed with in April
2005. But Curbishley does not anticipate any problems between the two
players. "I spoke to both of them and have been assured that it was a
one-off, and they both speak to each other regularly," said the manager. "It
was just two players desperate to do well. They were getting well beaten,
and it just boiled over."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam: Nobby's staying - SSN
Magpies boss won't let winger leave
By Alex Dunn Last updated: 16th August 2007
Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce insists he has no intention of allowing
Nolberto Solano to leave St James' Park, amid widespread reports the
Peruvian wants to move to London. Solano's family currently reside in the
capital and he is known to be keen on quitting the North East in order to
join them. West Ham are believed to be strong suitors of the gifted wide man
but Allardyce is loath to sanction his departure, especially given that fact
he has only just sold Kieron Dyer to the same club. "Nobby has talked about
his family situation and that's obviously something we have to try and
resolve," said Allardyce. "But at the moment, unlike Kieron, where West Ham
have come in with a big offer, nobody has come in for Nobby. So he stays
with us and he really is not someone I would want to lose." Earlier on
Thursday, Dyer completed his move to West Ham and now the deal has been
done, Allardyce has been quick to pass on his best wishes. "The issue is now
over and from the club's point of view and Kieron's point of view it's a
satisfying result. "We've all got what we wanted and we move on and I wish
him all the best. I hope he has a successful career from now on and of
course he is closer now to his family."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbs hits back at Konchesky - SSN
By Peter O'Rourke Last updated: 16th August 2007
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has revealed he is considering legal action
against ex-Hammers star Paul Konchesky. Konchesky, who left Uppton Park for
Fulham earlier in the summer, launched a scathing attack on Curbishley in a
Sunday newspaper last weekend. Konchesky was dropped by Curbishley early in
his tenure at Upton Park and the 26-year-old was outspoken in his criticism
of Curbishley's management style, suggesting the squad do not get on with
the boss and that he was the main reason Carlos Tevez left and Darren Bent
snubbed a move to the Hammers. Curbishley was not surprised by Konchesky's
criticism and admitted he is considering his position over the attack. "It
was no surprise to me when I saw it - I don't think the boy has any class,"
said Curbishley. "It's a little bit bitter and twisted and perhaps that's as
far as I should go because I've had a good look at it and there are some
things I might want to look at again. "It's a situation of free speech - but
it was no surprise to me. I gave him his debut at Charlton when he was 16
and, contrary to some observers, we've never had a row or a bust-up, so I
don't quite know where we go. "But he's left the club and he should just get
on with his football. I've not lost too much sleep over it and took it with
a pinch of salt. "But I'm having a look at some of the things and (legal
action) is for me to think about. But I'm in a similar position to him and
so I'm not going to go down that route."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Legal expert quashes Blades chances - Soccernet
Sheffield United have been warned they are on a 'hiding to nothing' after
the club instigated legal proceedings against West Ham following their
relegation from the Barclays Premier League. The Blades, whose fate was
sealed by a defeat to Wigan on the final day of last season, are seeking
damages for the loss of between £30million and £50million. West Ham avoided
a potential points deduction for breaking Premier League rules over the
signings of Tevez and Javier Mascherano - and went on to escape relegation
with a run of seven wins from their last nine matches. United had appeals
against the verdict dismissed by both a Premier League arbitration panel and
a High Court judge. The Blades are now suing over a breach of contract and
claim to have evidence which proves West Ham 'misled' the original
independent panel by failing to disclose vital information relating to their
arrangement with Tevez's advisor Kia Joorabchian.
But sports litigation expert Peter Coyle told PA Multimedia he does not
believe Sheffield United have much of a case. 'I think they are on a hiding
to nothing,' said Coyle, a partner of the firm Coyle White Devine. 'Proving
West Ham have breached their duty of good faith is easy enough because they
have admitted to breaking the rules, but to prove that has been the main
cause of their (Sheffield United's) relegation is incredibly difficult to
do. 'Sheffield United didn't beat Wigan on the last game of the season. That
to me is a bigger reason for their relegation than Tevez, West Ham or
anything else. 'It is difficult to advise people to drop anything worth
£50million but legally I would be struggling to find a justification to say
to Sheffield United 'let's keep banging on'.' The Tevez saga has been
rumbling on since April, when West Ham escaped a points deduction and were
hit by a record £5.5million fine.
Sheffield United's action should be the final chapter but Coyle has warned
the Football Association to rewrite their constitution otherwise they will
face further incidents of clubs sueing each other for damages. 'I think this
will be the final furlong. The internal FA Arbitration process is full and
final and they can't appeal it,' Coyle explained. 'The reputation of the FA
Premier League has been tarnished pretty badly. This doesn't help. 'At some
stage the FA has to look hard at its rule book and start again and re-write
the constitution to make it fit better with the commercial animal we are now
dealing with. 'This is not about sport, this is about money and the rules
are deficient in dealing with the business animal it is meant to deal with.
I think we will see this again.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham resist Sheffield's £50m legal claim - Telegraph
By Jeremy Wilson
Last Updated: 2:13am BST 17/08/2007
West Ham last night threatened their own legal action over "repeated slurs"
after Sheffield United launched a claim against them for damages which they
claim could amount to £50 million. In another extraordinary day in the
Carlos Tevez saga, the law firm Denton Wilde Sapte initiated proceedings on
behalf of United against West Ham claiming "breaches of contract". West Ham
responded by describing United's action as "desperate" and lacking "legal
merit". They said that any proceedings brought against them would be
"vigorously defended".
It all means the cloud of Tevez could hang over Upton Park for another six
months, with Sheffield United's case expected to be heard by an independent
three-man arbitration panel which would be set up in accordance with
Football Association rules.
Previously Sheffield United took their initial complaint to the High Court
following the original independent disciplinary commission's decision to
fine West Ham rather than dock them points for breaking League rules over
third-party ownership and acting in good faith.
A central element in the case against West Ham is a document dated Dec 1,
2006, which, according to Sheffield United, relates to a third-party
agreement that was not considered by the original disciplinary commission.
"It seems that West Ham concealed the existence of this document in order to
shield their new owners, who have publicly maintained that they were
innocent of any involvement in a third-party agreement," said a Sheffield
United statement.
"As a result, the contents of the third-party agreement dated Dec 1, 2006,
were not taken into account by the Premier League or the disciplinary
commission that punished West Ham. The disciplinary commission did not
deduct points from West Ham for seven specific reasons, including that the
club's new owners had made full disclosure of all relevant documents and had
no involvement with the third-party contracts in the first place."
West Ham, who continued their summer spree yesterday with the £6 million
signing of Kieron Dyer from Newcastle, have challenged the authenticity of
the amended agreement, saying it was not signed in December by Tevez. They
also deny withholding it from the League. Last night, a statement said:
"West Ham made the Premier League fully aware of the existence and status of
the agreement in question. This agreement was included in the documentation
produced for the disciplinary commission who were also aware of its
existence throughout the proceedings. Sheffield United's latest assertions
demonstrate a fundamental misunderstanding of the situation.
"West Ham and the new owners will not permit these repeated slurs to go
unchallenged and are in discussions with their legal advisers in relation to
the action they might take."
It also emerged yesterday that Sheffield United chairman Kevin McCabe wrote
to the Premier League and all 20 clubs on Wednesday criticising officials
for failing to open a new investigation into West Ham's alleged conduct
after details of the Dec 1 contract were revealed. Informing the League that
they had been left with "no other choice" but to sue West Ham, McCabe argued
that the amended third-party agreement should have triggered a fresh probe
into whether the east London club had acted in bad faith.
A key player in the case could be Tevez's agent, Kia Joorabchian, who is
believed to have unseen documentation relating to the Argentine's transfer.
Sheffield United are likely to call him as a witness, although he is
reluctant to get involved.
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We Love Sheffield Wednesday - West Ham Till I Die
Apparently Sheffield Wednesday supporters were were singing "Bubbles" at
their game against Rotherham tonight. I wonder why!
PS They won 3-1.
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West Ham slam 'desperate' Blades - TeamTalk
West Ham have slammed Sheffield United's intention to sue them for the cost
of relegation as "desperate". The Blades recently failed in their High Court
bid to force a new Premier League action against West Ham over the Carlos
Tevez affair. However, they have now decided on a new course of action which
they hope will lead to the award of considerable damages. They have
estimated the cost of their relegation at between £30million and £50million.
The Blades are suing over a breach of contract and claim to have evidence
which proves West Ham "misled" the original independent panel by failing to
disclose vital information relating to their arrangement with Tevez's
adviser Kia Joorabchian. But the Hammers issued a statement which read: "We
are extremely disappointed that Sheffield United have seen fit to embark on
this latest desperate action. "Not only does Sheffield United's claim lack
legal merit, but it is also based on their incorrect belief that West Ham
withheld an agreement from the Premier League and the April disciplinary
commission. "In fact, long before the disciplinary hearing, West Ham United
made the Premier League fully aware of the existence and status of the
agreement in question. "This agreement was then included in the
documentation produced for the disciplinary commission, who were therefore
also aware of its existence throughout the proceedings.
"Sheffield United's latest assertions clearly demonstrate a fundamental
misunderstanding of the situation, and any proceedings brought by them will
be vigorously defended by West Ham. "In the meantime, West Ham and the new
owners will not permit these repeated slurs to go unchallenged and are in
discussions with their legal advisers in relation to the action they might
take."
Earlier the Blades had themselves issued a statement which read: "Sheffield
United announced that we are to issue proceedings against West Ham United in
connection with the 'Tevez Affair'. "Sheffield United will claim substantial
damages for breaches of contract by West Ham. "The move comes as the
transfer of Carlos Tevez from West Ham to Manchester United is completed and
the player makes his debut for his new club. "Sheffield United's basis for
the claim is that West Ham acted dishonestly in obtaining the registration
of Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, in that they failed to reveal that
those players were owned by a third party. "The Premier League would not
have registered those players with West Ham had they known the true
position. "The players, particularly Tevez, played a key role in West Ham's
season, giving West Ham an unfair advantage at the expense of the other
Premiership teams - including Sheffield United - all of which had played by
the rules. "Sheffield United are confident that sufficient remedies exist in
law to ensure the Tevez affair cannot simply be brushed under the carpet."
The Blades have put the cost of relegation at between £30million and
£50million. West Ham were fined £5.5million by the Premier League over the
Tevez affair in April. Sheffield United believe they should have been docked
points for such a serious breach of rules but failed in their attempts to
have the original punishment changed or the hearing reconvened.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbishley admits interest in duo - TeamTAlk
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has admitted making a bid for Derby's Giles
Barnes, but will not move for Eidur Gudjohnsen until he is fit again. The
Hammers finally welcomed Keiron Dyer to Upton Park on Thursday and
Curbishley immediately admitted his desire to add yet more new players to
his ranks. Dyer, 28, has agreed personal terms on a four-year deal with the
Hammers and becomes Curbishley's sixth summer signing - following Craig
Bellamy, Scott Parker, Julien Faubert, Freddie Ljungberg and Richard Wright.
Curbishley is on the look-out for further reinforcements but claims moves
for Barnes and Barcelona striker Gudjohnsen are currently on the
back-burner. "Eidur Gudjohnsen is not fit and is battling away to get fit,
so there is nothing in it at the moment," said Curbishley. "He's a Barcelona
player. "We did inquire about Giles Barnes; we made an offer, and it was
rejected. We are entitled to make bids for players. He's injured as well at
the moment, and Derby want to keep him. "But the transfer window is still
open, and we are still active. We're still short in one or two areas."
Meanwhile Curbishley admitted he was pleased to finally sign Dyer after a
protracted transfer and is backing him to be a hit at Upton Park if he can
stay fit.
The move also reunites Dyer with ex-Toon team-mate Lee Bowyer - with whom he
infamously exchanged punches on the pitch against Aston Villa back in 2005.
"We're trying to build a squad here; we are short in the middle, and Kieron
can play that position," added Curbishley. "We're delighted to get the
player. Newcastle changed it at the last minute before - when he was just
walking in the door - so that was disappointing. "But common sense has
prevailed; Kieron is looking forward to joining us, and Newcastle go down
their route. "Every player you sign has risks - and he is no different. I
hope he hits the ground running and shows everyone what a good player he
is."
As for the relationship between Bowyer and Dyer, Curbishley does not
anticipate any problems. "I spoke to both players and have been assured that
it was a one-off, and they both speak to each other regularly," said the
manager. "It was just two players desperate to do well; they were getting
well beaten, and it just boiled over. "Kieron's got to make up for a bit of
lost time, and I hope he does. We're delighted to have him on board." Dyer
could be fast-tracked into the side for Saturday's trip to Birmingham, with
Parker still sidelined.
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Curbs slams Konchesky - The Sun
By GARY PAYNE
August 17, 2007
ALAN CURBISHLEY has branded former West Ham full-back Paul Konchesky "bitter
and twisted". Konchesky, who was flogged to Fulham last month, claimed many
of his ex-team-mates are unhappy and do not like the Hammers boss. But Curbs
hit back: "I don't think the boy's got any class. I just think it is bitter
and twisted. "Perhaps that is as far as I should go. If I talk any more
about it, I'll be in the same position as him and I don't want to go down
that route.
"I have had a good look at it and there are some things I might want to look
at again." Konchesky, 26, also played for Curbs at Charlton before joining
Hammers in 2005. The Hammers boss added: "I gave him his debut when he was
16. "Contrary to other people's observations we have never had a row or a
bust-up. He has left the club and should just get on with his football."
Konchesky's dig at Curbishley followed chairman Eggert Magnusson's claims in
SunSport last week that West Ham had got rid of the "bad eggs" at the club.
When asked if he was considering legal action, Curbishley said: "That is
something for me to think about."
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Hammers hunger to relight Dyer - The Sun
By BEN KINSELLA
August 17, 2007
KIERON DYER has revealed his relief at finally completing a £7million move
to West Ham. The deal looked dead a fortnight ago after Newcastle owner Mike
Ashley suddenly demanded Hammers increase their £6m offer by £2m. But the
two clubs have met halfway and England star Dyer is set to make his debut at
Birmingham tomorrow. The midfielder, 28, said: "I thought it was the end of
the move and I was devastated. But thankfully the clubs have come to an
agreement and I am finally a West Ham player. "It was well documented I
wanted to be nearer to my family — but I also see West Ham as a club that is
really going places. "They have shown great ambition with the other players
they have brought in and I just love the hunger of the club to be
successful."
Dyer has been dogged by a succession of injuries in the past few years and
missed the first two months of last season with a hamstring problem. But
Hammers boss Alan Curbishley insisted: "He is not a risk injury wise. "If
you look at his injury history, once his hamstring was sorted out last year
he played 33 times, scored seven times and played for England. "He was
frustrated because his injury was not clearing up. But once it was sorted he
showed everyone what he could do." Curbishley also shrugged off any chance
of former Toon team-mates Dyer and Lee Bowyer falling out at Upton Park.
The pair famously scrapped on the pitch in 2005. But Curbs insisted: "I
spoke to both players about the incident and they assured me it was a
one-off. They speak regularly to each other so I don't think it's a
problem."
Sheffield United announced yesterday they will sue West Ham over the Carlos
Tevez affair. Blades want compensation for the cost of their relegation from
the Premier League — a figure they put at between £30m and £50m. Curbishley
added: "I thought it was done and dusted but it has come up again.
"Obviously it is a delicate situation and we will have to see what it
brings."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer aiming to prove a point after joining West Ham - The Independent
By Jason Burt
Published: 17 August 2007
West Ham United yesterday finally completed the £6m signing of Kieron Dyer
just two weeks after manager Alan Curbishley declared the deal "definitely
off".
The about-turn occurred after Newcastle United relented in their demands for
£8m for the 28-year-old midfielder – £2m more than was originally agreed –
after they felt aggrieved at West Ham's behaviour.
However, Newcastle, having decided that Dyer had no future at the club, did
not receive any other offers and have reverted to the original deal struck
with West Ham. "Common sense has prevailed, and Kieron is looking forward to
joining us," Curbishley said. The England international will go straight
into their squad for tomorrow's league meeting with Birmingham City.
Dyer wanted to move south for personal reasons and agreed terms and passed a
medical at Upton Park earlier this month. It is understood that in agreeing
a four-year deal West Ham have come close to matching the £80,000-a-week
wages he was earning at St James's Park.
"But I also see West Ham as a club that is really going places," he said
yesterday. "A lot of the players that have signed have a bit of a point to
prove as have the players who came so close to relegation last season so
everyone shares that hunger."
Curbishley added: "We are delighted to get the player in. If you look at his
history over the last couple of years he missed a lot of games with his
hamstring – but once he got it sorted, he played 33 games and scored eight
goals."
Dyer becomes the fourth former Newcastle player at West Ham – following the
arrival of Scott Parker, Craig Bellamy and Lee Bowyer with whom he had a
fight on the pitch during his side's defeat at home to Aston Villa in April
2005.
Dyer joined Newcastle for £6.5m from Ipswich Town – who will receive a
percentage of the fee paid by West Ham because of a sell-on clause – in July
1999, but his time on Tyneside was blighted by injury and disciplinary
problems.
Dyer's arrival is likely to end West Ham's interest in the Palermo
midfielder Mark Bresciano.
West Ham remain interested in Derby's Giles Barnes but are not prepared to
meet the Rams' valuation, while bids have been lodged for Barcelona's Eidur
Gudjohnsen, with an agreed fee of £6.8m, and Reading full-back Nicky Shorey.
Curbishley is hoping to sign a striker and left-back before the transfer
window closes.
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Sheffield United claim £30m from Hammers - The Independent
By Nick Harris
Published: 17 August 2007
Sheffield United's bitter wrangle with West Ham United over the Carlos Tevez
affair is destined for a third arbitration hearing after the Yorkshire club
took legal action against the Londoners yesterday, seeking "substantial
compensation" of up to £30m for being relegated.
West Ham avoided the drop last season largely thanks to the late-season
heroics of Tevez. This was after a first arbitration hearing had already
fined them £5.5m over irregularities in the signings of Tevez and Javier
Mascherano. A second hearing, at Sheffield United's request,
post-relegation, challenged the Premier League's enforcement of its own
rules, but failed to change the verdict.
United have now changed tack, and are gunning directly at West Ham, accusing
them of a "breach of utmost good faith". The mechanism they have chosen is
to serve notice of arbitration to West Ham under the Football Association's
Rule K.
United's basis for their latest claim is not just that West Ham acted
dishonestly in obtaining the registration of Tevez by failing to reveal he
was controlled by a third party. United will also cite as evidence for the
first time a document dated 1 December 2006, which purports to show that
West Ham's new regime, not just the old owners, had an illicit third-party
deal.
United will argue that neither of the previous hearings saw this document,
and so did not make a ruling based on the full facts when fining West Ham
rather than docking points.
West Ham have 14 days to respond to United's action. One solution could be
an out-of-court settlement, with West Ham paying Sheffield United
compensation, probably of a few million pounds or less. With no such
settlement, a hearing would go ahead, with each side nominating one of three
panellists, and the third picked by mutual agreement.
The panel will rehear all evidence and have the powers to award unlimited
compensation, if United win. The panel's findings would be binding, if it
came to that.
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West Ham vow to fight £50m compensation bid - The Times
Gary Jacob
West Ham United are prepared to mount a "vigorous defence" against an
unprecedented multimillion-pound compensation proceeding brought against
them by Sheffield United last night. The East London club, who survived
relegation from the Barclays Premier League on the final day of last season,
said in a statement that they are "extremely disappointed" about the stance
that Sheffield United have taken, but are convinced that the Yorkshire
club's claims have no merit.
Sheffield United are seeking compensation after estimating that relegation
cost them £50 million. Central to their argument is the claim of
inconsistencies in the sworn witness statements submitted by Eggert
Magnusson when the West Ham chairman was defending his club against a charge
of breaching Premier League rules in relation to the transfers of Carlos
Tevez and Javier Mascherano.
"West Ham United is extremely disappointed that Sheffield United has seen
fit to embark on this latest desperate action," the statement from Upton
Park read. "Not only does Sheffield United's claim lack legal merit, but it
is also based on Sheffield United's incorrect belief that West Ham United
withheld an agreement from the Premier League and the April Disciplinary
Commission.
"Sheffield United's latest assertions clearly demonstrate a fundamental
misunderstanding of the situation and any proceedings brought by them will
be vigorously defended. West Ham United and its new owners will not permit
these repeated slurs to go unchallenged and are in discussions with their
legal advisers in relation to the action they might take."
The dispute will be considered by a three-man panel, appointed by the FA,
which has the authority to award any penalty, including compensation.
Sheffield United have asked that Robert Englehart QC sits on the panel.
Fulham may also join the proceedings against West Ham, who have 14 days to
respond to the accusations.
Peter Coyle, an expert in sports litigation, who is a partner at Coyle White
Devine, the legal firm, said that Sheffield United do not have a case. "I
think they are on a hiding to nothing," he said. "Sheffield didn't beat
Wigan on the last day. That is a bigger reason for their relegation than
Tévez and West Ham."
Kevin McCabe, the Sheffield United chairman, wrote to the Premier League
chairmen to outline his argument that West Ham had committed further
offences that warranted investigation. Chief among them was that the East
London club's owners had signed a second agreement with the owners of Tévez.
West Ham are believed to have shown an unsigned version of the document to
the commission and claimed that they never entered into the agreement. "With
respect, that is nonsense," McCabe said in the letter. "By failing to
disclose the existence of the agreement, West Ham allowed the commission to
be misled into believing that they had come to the whole affair with 'clean
hands'."
Sheffield United will make several arguments, including that the
registration of Tévez was invalid because it was obtained through
dishonesty. Sheffield United may also argue that that the agreement to act
in good faith with other clubs was broken.
The Yorkshire club will also argue that West Ham did not behave in line with
the promises given to the Premier League after they were fined – namely that
the East London club owned Tévez. Sheffield United have queried why West Ham
then made an offer in June to sign Tévez for a fee rising to £40 million.
Sheffield United claim that they have documents to support the case and are
willing to subpoena Kia Joorabchian, who fronts the two companies that hold
Tévez's "economic rights", to provide additional paperwork.
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Fight club is reunited as Dyer finally seals West Ham move - The Times
George Caulkin
Kieron Dyer's transfer to West Ham United was finally completed yesterday,
bringing an end to a saga that managed to infuriate the player, his new club
and his previous employers. Dyer has signed a four-year contract at Upton
Park worth £80,000 a week in a move that will net Newcastle United about £7
million.
Ten days after West Ham broke off negotiations when Mike Ashley, Newcastle's
new owner, increased the asking price for Dyer from £6 million to £8
million, the deal was resurrected. In reality, there was little alternative;
Dyer wished to move closer to his Ipswich-based family, West Ham were the
only club who could afford him and Newcastle wanted to sell.
Alan Curbishley, the West Ham manager, expressed disquiet at Ashley's role,
although Newcastle remain unimpressed with the manner in which the London
club have conducted business. "Newcastle changed it at the last minute so
that was disappointing," Curbishley said. "But common sense has prevailed."
Dyer will be reunited with two former Newcastle teammates — Lee Bowyer, with
whom he once traded punches during a match against Aston Villa, and Scott
Parker. "A couple of weeks ago, I thought it was the end of the move and I
was devastated," Dyer said. "I think it was well documented that I wanted to
be nearer to my family, but I also see West Ham as a club that is really
going places."
Newcastle supporters will recall Dyer's unfulfilled potential and mishaps
off the field. "The chairman is satisfied with the deal and Kieron was
desperate to leave," Sam Allardyce, the Newcastle manager, said. "I think
we've all got what we wanted from it."
Curbishley said that the chances of either Eidur Gudjohnsen, of Barcelo-na,
or Giles Barnes, of Derby County, following Dyer now looked slim.
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Dyer delighted as West Ham move goes through
Newcastle accept new offer rising to £7m
Curbishley happy about reunion with Bowyer
David Ornstein
Friday August 17, 2007
The Guardian
Kieron Dyer last night completed his long-anticipated move from Newcastle to
West Ham after the two clubs struck a compromise that takes the midfielder
to Upton Park for a fee rising to £7m.
An initial deal collapsed on August 3 when Newcastle raised their asking
price from £6m to £8m at the 11th hour but with the close of the transfer
window looming, and Dyer desperate to end his eight-year stay on Tyneside,
the transfer was pushed through yesterday morning.
"A couple of weeks ago I thought it was the end of the move and I was
devastated," said Dyer, who wished to be closer to his family in the south.
"But thankfully the two clubs have come to an agreement."
In the original proposal West Ham were to pay £5m up front plus a further
£1m related to appearances and it is believed a similar deal is now in place
but with the base fee bumped up to £6m. Alan Curbishley, the West Ham
manager, proclaimed his side "delighted" to secure the 28-year-old but
Newcastle will feel they have pulled off a coup by selling an injury-prone
player who was earning around £60,000 a week and has scored only 23 Premier
League goals since moving to St James' Park from Ipswich in 1999.
"We've all got what we wanted, we move on and I wish him all the best," said
Sam Allardyce, Newcastle's manager. "I hope he has a successful career from
now on and of course he is closer now to his family."
The arrival of Dyer takes Curbishley's summer spending to over £30m and
reunites the England international with his former Newcastle team-mates
Scott Parker, Craig Bellamy and, most intriguingly, Lee Bowyer. During
Newcastle's 3-0 defeat at home to Aston Villa in April 2005, Dyer and Bowyer
were involved in one of English football's most notorious brawls.
"I've spoken to both players on that and I've been assured it was a one-off
and that they both speak regularly to each other anyway, so I don't think
there'll be a problem," said Curbishley. "It was an incident that happened
between two players that were desperate to do well, not lose the match and
their frustration boiled over."
Dyer, who has signed a four-year contract, appeared in three of Newcastle's
six pre-season games, a reserve match on Monday night and a specially
arranged friendly behind closed doors on Wednesday. He passed a medical at
West Ham 13 days earlier ago and is available for the Hammers' trip to
Birmingham City on Saturday.
Curbishley, meanwhile, revealed he is considering taking legal action
against the former West Ham defender Paul Konchesky. As the Charlton
Athletic manager Curbishley handed the 26-year-old his league debut in 1999
but, after being sold to Fulham this summer, Konchesky launched a blistering
attack on his former coach. He alleged that many of the West Ham players are
unhappy because of Curbishley and that the departure of Carlos Tevez and
failure to sign Darren Bent were a result of the way he treats players.
"I don't think the boy's got any class and I just think that it's a little
bit bitter and twisted," said Curbishley. "I've had a good look at it and
there are some things that perhaps I might want to look at again. That
[legal action] is something for me to consider and think about."
Curbishley said that no move for Eidur Gudjohnsen would be made while the
Barcelona forward is unfit and added that West Ham had a bid for Derby's
Giles Barnes rejected and will not pursue their interest while the
19-year-old is injured.
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Curbs: I may take action over 'bitter' Konchesky slur - Daily Mail
By IAN GIBB - More by this author »
Last updated at 08:05am on 17th August 2007
Alan Curbishley is threatening to sue Paul Konchesky over the full back's
claim that the West Ham manager has lost the respect of his players.
Curbishley, who last night completed the protracted £6million signing of
Kieron Dyer from Newcastle, is furious with allegations made by Konchesky
following the player's move from Upton Park to Fulham during the summer. The
West Ham boss launched a stinging counter-attack yesterday, raising the
prospect of legal action and branding Konchesky "bitter and twisted". The
England left back had been scathing about Curbishley, who gave him his debut
at Charlton at the age of 16 before managing him again at Upton Park.
Konchesky claimed in a newspaper that several West Ham players do not rate
Curbishley and suggested the manager was the reason why Carlos Tevez did not
stay and Darren Bent refused to sign, preferring to join Tottenham.
Curbishley said: "It was no surprise to me when I saw it - I don't think the
boy has any class. I've had a good look at it and there are some things in
there I might want to look at again. "I gave him his debut at 16, the
youngest-ever first team player at Charlton. And contrary to some people's
observations, we've never had a bust-up. "I don't quite know where we go
from now. He's left the club and he should just get on with his football.
I'm not losing too much sleep about it. I've taken his comments with a pinch
of salt."
On the possibility of legal action, Curbishley said: "I'm having a look at
some of the things and that's for me to think about. But if I talk any more
about it I'm in a similar position to him and I'm not going to go down that
route." Asked whether he thought players did not rate him, Curbishley said:
"I'll leave that open to opinion."
Sportsmail understands that Bent has contacted Curbishley to distance
himself from Konchesky's views. It is also believed that Tevez is grateful
to Curbishley for putting his career back on track with coaching help.
Dyer's signing finally went through yesterday for a fee which could rise to
£7m and he is available for tomorrow's trip to Birmingham. The 28-year-old,
who has a four-year deal, said: "A couple of weeks ago I thought the move
wouldn't happen. I was devastated but thankfully the clubs came to an
agreement."
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Curbs' deadline - The Mirror
Exclusive by John Cross and Neil Mcleman 17/08/2007
Chairman Eggert Magnusson has given Alan Curbishley six weeks to establish
West Ham as European contenders - or face the sack. The Hammers boss got a
final vote of confidence yesterday when he took his spending at the club to
£49m since January after agreeing a £7m deal for Kieron Dyer. But after a
horrible home defeat to Manchester City last weekend, Curbishley showed he
is feeling the pressure when he accused Paul Konchesky of being "bitter and
twisted" and having "no class" after the left-back's criticism of his former
boss. Curbishley led West Ham to safety last season after a slow start. A
last-day victory at Old Trafford sealed the great escape. But the West Ham
board were unhappy that Darren Bent chose to move to Tottenham from Charlton
- Curbishley's old club - in the summer for less money than West Ham were
offering. With Magnusson stating he wants Champions League football at Upton
Park within four years, the shambolic opening day showing was unacceptable
to the owners of the club. Konchesky, sold to Fulham for £2m last month,
claimed: "There were a lot of unhappy players at West Ham who didn't like
Alan Curbishley. A lot don't think he is any good." Curbishley hinted he
could take legal action in response.
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Bolton ready to cash in on Portsmouth, West Ham target Anelka
tribalfooball.com - August 16, 2007
Bolton Wanderers are ready to cash in on striker Nicolas Anelka. The Times
says the Trotters are believed to be willing to sell Anelka, but want a
swift resolution to the transfer. They value the striker at about £10
million after renewed interest from Portsmouth and West Ham United. Anelka
was top scorer with 12 goals last season after joining for £8 million from
Fenerbahce and had been linked with a return to Arsenal, with whom he won
the Double in 1998. He scored against Newcastle United in Bolton's first
game of the season on Saturday.
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West Ham to outbid Portsmouth for Bolton's Anelka
tribalfooball.com - August 16, 2007
West Ham United are ready to outbid Portsmouth for Bolton Wanderers striker
Nicolas Anelka. The Daily Mail says Portsmouth had opened talks with Bolton,
with Matt Taylor possibly going in the opposite direction. Yet West Ham
will use their financial clout to match the bid and offer more lucrative
terms of around £90,000 a week to the 28-year-old France forward.
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Wright unsettled at West Ham
tribalfooball.com - August 16, 2007
New West Ham goalkeeper Richard Wright won't consider a long-term bench role
at Upton Park. The 29-year-old, who joined on a free transfer from Everton
in the summer said: "When we met the first thing I said to him was 'If you
are looking for someone to sit on the bench, I'm not your man'. "I want to
be playing."
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