Monday, June 4

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - II 4th June 2007

Season Ticket information 2007-08 - WHUFC
04/06/2007 09:00

Existing West Ham United season ticket holders have until Friday 29 June to
renew for the forthcoming 2007-08 Premier League campaign.
Renewal literature has now been sent out to all existing season ticket
holders and in this literature our chairman, Eggert Magnusson, writes...

"Our Life President, Björgólfur Guðmundsson and I want to take this
opportunity to thank you for your unfailing support for West Ham United and
outline to you our plans for the club for the coming season in the Premier
League. "When I said we wanted the Club to be challenging for European
honours on a regular basis over the coming years, I meant it. "We can
achieve our aims by using the summer to improve the squad with the players
Alan has identified and tap into the talent coming through from our renowned
academy. "I believe we can look forward with optimism and with a sense of
building for the long-term. "Thank you again for your continued support, it
is valued by everyone at the club."

Season ticket prices for the 2007-08 Barclays Premier League campaign are as
follows:

Season Tickets Adult U-16 U-10 OAP/Young Adult
Band 1 £850 £255 £110 £425
Band 2 £780 £230 £110 £390
Band 3 £725 £215 £110 £360
Band 4 £595 £175 £110 £295
Restricted view £665 £205 £110 £330

With the continued discounts available to both under 16s and under 10s, we
are keen to show our commitment to making football as affordable as possible
for children and those bringing children. We are also pleased to announce
that we have introduced a new category called 'Young Adult' whereby all
supporters aged between 16 and 21 can now apply for a reduced price season
ticket. We hope this will make the transition from school to the workplace
or further education more affordable for both the supporter and the parent.
This price category will replace the old 'Student' category which will no
longer be available for either season tickets or memberships.

Season ticket renewals
The renewal date has been set at Friday 29th June. Details of when season
ticket holders can apply from will be announced shortly. As in previous
seasons, all existing season ticket holders have been sent a renewal pack
and we would hope this will have been received by now.

New applicants
To ensure you receive the season ticket information pack please contact the
ticket office on 0870 112 2700 and, once available, a pack will be forwarded
to you.

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The new Dicky Dirt: What wouldn't you trade for it? - WHUFC
04/06/2007 11:05

He's trodden the boards all over the country, made several Hollywood
blockbusters, but our most famous celebrity supporter's roots remain firmly
at Upton Park.
Ray Winstone may now be recognised all over the world, but nothing or nobody
gets in the way of him following his beloved Hammers! In fact, he'd trade
even an oscar nomination for the chance to pull on a Hammers shirt and
fulfil every fans dream of scoring the winning goal in a cup final. But this
is not just any shirt. In fact, when Ray was offered the chance to help with
the launch of the brand new Umbro home kit, he dropped everything and flew
in from LA to record a new radio commercial promoting the launch of the kit
on June 16th. Available exclusively through the club, you will soon be able
to pre-order through whufc.com to ensure you get your hands on one first.
Oh, and Ray reckons it's the Daddy!

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Ticket details for pre-season fixtures - WHUFC
04/06/2007 15:17

Ticket details for some of West Ham United's pre-season friendly matches
this summer have now been announced.

While the full pre-season schedule has yet to be finalised, we are able to
offer information on the following matches:

Sat 14th July v Dagenham & Redbridge (a)
Kick-off: 3.00pm
Ticket details yet to be confirmed, please contact the home team on 020 8592
7194 for further information.

Tue 24th July v Leyton Orient (a)
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Ticket details yet to be confirmed, please contact the home team on 0871 310
1883 for further information.

Wed 25th July v Milton Keynes Dons (a)
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Ticket details yet to be confirmed, please contact the home team on 01908
609000 for further information.

Sat 28th July v Southend United (a)
Kick-off: 3.00pm
Ticket details yet to be confirmed, please contact the home team on 08444
770077 for further information.

Tue 31st July v Norwich City (a)
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Norwich City have sent an allocation of seats for the fixture being played
at Carrow Road on Tuesday 31st July. These are priced at £12.00 for adults,
£7.00 for seniors and £3.00 for under-16s.

Tickets will go on General Sale on Saturday 2 July. No priority is required
and Coach Travel is not available.

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Brand new online megastore launches now! - WHUFC
04/06/2007 15:57

West Ham United is delighted to announce the launch of our brand new Online
Megastore!

The Official West Ham United Online Megastore - at www.megastore.whufc.com -
is the fast, easy, simple and secure way to purchase 100% official West Ham
merchandise from the comfort of your own home. Open 24 hours a day, seven
days a week, you will find the new Umbro Home Shirt which is exclusively
available to pre-order NOW, to ensure you get yours delivered direct to your
door when it is released on June 16. In addition to the new kit you will
also find everything from the new Umbro Training Range to cutting edge
fashion and accessories. With worldwide fully traceable delivery available
from £3.95, FREE delivery on all orders over £75 and a no hassle returns
policy there has never been an easier time to buy official West Ham
merchandise.

Simply click here to start shopping now!

http://www.megastore.whufc.com

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AJ not for sale, say Toffees - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Everton chief executive Keith Wyness has hit out at reports suggesting
striker Andrew Johnson could be on his way to the Boleyn Ground. Wyness,
speaking via Everton's website this morning said: "We have had no contact
from any club with regard to Andrew Johnson - nor would we welcome any.
"Whilst I feel certain there will be many Premiership clubs who will covet a
player of Andrew's skills and abilities, he is an Everton player and, as he
made perfectly clear on several occasions last season, he is very happy to
be an Everton player."

Wyness' comments contradict a string of reports suggesting that the
Bedford-born striker - who joined Everton a year ago in an £8.6m switch from
Crystal Palace - is unhappy in the North West and looking for a return to
London.

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Everton say Johnson not for sale - BBC

Everton have responded to speculation surrounding Andrew Johnson by
insisting the England striker is not for sale. West Ham are reported to be
preparing a £13m for Johnson, 26, who cost Everton £8.6m from Crystal
Palace. Chief executive Keith Wyness told Everton's website: "We've had no
contact from any club, nor would we welcome any. "While many Premiership
clubs covet Andrew, he's made it perfectly clear he's happy to be an Everton
player." Johnson scored 11 Premiership goals in his first season for the
Toffees, helping them to Uefa Cup qualification, although injuries
restricted him to 32 League appearances. He suffered a sprained ankle at
West Ham on 21 April, and underwent subsequent surgery which has ruled him
out of England Euro 2008 qualifier against Estonia. But Everton expect him
to be fit to take part in pre-season training.

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Royals reject Shorey rumours - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 4 Jun 2007

Reading have rejected reports linking Nicky Shorey with a move away from the
Madejski Stadium. Reports have suggested West Ham and Tottenham are keen on
signing the England new boy. Reading's director of football Nicky Hammond
has moved quickly to reject the speculation saying Shorey is going nowhere.
"It's paper talk and I won't comment on speculation," Hammond told the
Reading Evening Post. "I've said before that we have no intention of losing
any of our best players.
"I spoke to Nicky about his contract before the England call-up so
discussions with him have already started. "It's a busy time as he's also
getting married and he already has two years left on his present deal."

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Hammers to join Barton chase - Sky
By Peter ORourke - Created on 4 Jun 2007

Skysports.com understands West Ham are ready to rival Newcastle for Joey
Barton. Barton looks set to leave Manchester City after being suspended by
the club following his training ground bust-up with team-mate Ousmane Dabo.
Newcastle are believed to be in the driving seat for Barton as Sam Allardyce
looks to make the midfield firebrand his first signing at St James' Park.
However, West Ham are now hoping to scupper Newcastle's bid to sign Barton
by offering him the option of a move to Upton Park instead. Both clubs are
ready to activate the buy-out clause of £5.5million in Barton's City
contract to hold talks with the England international.
Barton's potential move to either club all depends on Scott Parker's
proposed move from Newcastle to West Ham. Barton's agent Willie McKay
admitted West Ham were monitoring the player's situation and that the
midfielder is waiting to see what offers come in for him. "I believe West
Ham are interested in Joey as well as Newcastle, but everything depends on
the possible transfer of Scott Parker," McKay told skysports.com "If the
clubs make an offer of £5.5million they can activate Joey's clause in his
contract. "We are now waiting on offers to come in before we take things
further."

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Ashton can't wait to return - Sky
By Andrew Scurr - Created on 4 Jun 2007

Dean Ashton is delighted he will not be making his long-awaited comeback
from injury in the Championship. The West Ham striker missed all of last
season after breaking his ankle while training in the build-up to Steve
McClaren's first game in charge of England, against Greece last August.
Ashton has since undergone intense rehabilitation, while his Hammers
team-mates battled for their Premiership status right down to the final day.
The England international will be raring to go come the start of next season
and is pleased Alan Curbishley's men will still be playing Premiership
football next season. He has now set his sights on a successful return for
West Ham in order to win back his place in McClaren's future England squads.
"I just want to get back for the love of playing football, the joy of going
out and kicking a ball. I'll be so grateful to get back to that," Ashton
told the Daily Mail. "I want to be part of a West Ham team that could be
really special. "It's brilliant for me that I will be playing Premiership
football again next season. I wouldn't have been looking to leave even if we
had gone down. Clubs don't sign injured players, do they? "I also hope to
try to get back into Steve McClaren's thinking. Hopefully, he still sees me
as part of his plans." Meanwhile, Ashton hopes he will get the chance to
play alongside Carlos Tevez, the man who inspired West Ham to survival. "I
hope he can stay. It would be a shame if he goes after just half a season
playing like that," he added.

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Everton: Johnson not for sale - Sky
By Lewis Rutledge - Created on 4 Jun 2007

Everton have insisted Andy Johnson will not be going anywhere this summer
and denied there has been any interest in the club's record signing.
Newspaper reports had suggested West Ham boss Alan Curbishley was lining up
a huge bid for Johnson. It was claimed Curbishley was ready to pay
£13million for the player and could be prepared to go even higher. However,
Everton have been quick to issue a statement warning off any potential
interest. Chief Executive Keith Wyness maintains he has not heard from
Curbishley or any other Premiership manager, and is adamant Johnson will
still be at Goodison Park next season. "We have had no contact from any club
with regard to Andrew Johnson - nor would we welcome any," Wyness told the
club's official website. "Whilst I feel certain there will be many
Premiership clubs who will covet a player of Andrew's skills and abilities,
he is an Everton player and, as he made perfectly clear on several occasions
last season, he is very happy to be an Everton player." David Moyes fought
off competition from a number of other clubs 12 months ago to bring Johnson
to Everton for £8.6million. Johnson enjoyed a fine season as he scored 12
goals to help Everton qualify for next season's Uefa Cup. He also broke back
into the England squad after being left out of Sven Goran Eriksson's World
Cup squad.

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Irons drop Bent bid and go for AJ - TeamTalk

West Ham are ready to end their interest in Charlton's Darren Bent and
instead make a £13million bid for Everton striker Andrew Johnson. Johnson
only moved to Goodison Park from Crystal Palace last summer, but the Hammers
will offer him £90,000-a-week in an attempt to lure him back to London,
according to reports. Everton are expected to knock back any offer for the
striker who scored 11 league goals last season, but West Ham are ready to go
as high as £18million to get their man. The Irons put an £18million bid on
the table for Addicks hitman Bent in January's transfer window, but had it
rejected so Hammers boss Alan Curbishley has decided to focus on Johnson
instead. Curbishley is expected to be a very busy man this summer as he
attempts to overhaul a squad which only survived in the Premiership on the
last day of the season. Scott Parker is expected to seal his move to Upton
Park shortly while Carlos Tevez, Nigel Reo-Coker, Paul Konchesky, Matthew
Etherington and Hayden Mullins are all ready to leave.

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Johnson not for sale an any price - Times Online and Agencies

Everton have hit back at reports that West Ham United are to make a
big-money bid for their star striker Andrew Johnson by insisting the player
is not for sale.
West Ham are interested in bringing the former Crystal Palace forward back
to London, and are said to be prepared to pay between £13 million and £18
million for the England man. But Keith Wyness, the Everton chief executive,
was adamant Johnson would remain at Goodison Park. "We have had no contact
from any club with regard to Andrew Johnson - nor would we welcome any,"
Wyness told the official Everton website. "Whilst I feel certain there will
be many Premiership clubs who will covet a player of Andrew's skills and
abilities, he is an Everton player and, as he made perfectly clear on
several occasions last season, he is very happy to be an Everton player."
The 26-year-old, who began his career at Birmingham before enhancing his
reputation by scoring 74 goals in 134 starts for Crystal Palace, scored 12
goals for the Merseyside club last season to help fire them to UEFA Cup
qualification. He joined Everton last summer in an £8.6million deal, and
although he missed the end of the season with an ankle injury he is expected
to be fit for the start of pre-season training.

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Royals tell Irons to forget about Nicky - TeamTalk

Reading director of football Nick Hammond has issued a hands-off warning to
West Ham over England full-back Nicky Shorey. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley
has been linked with a move for Shorey, who made his international debut in
Friday night's 1-1 draw with Brazil at Wembley. But Hammond played down the
reports and insisted he has already opened talks with the 26-year-old over
an extension to his current Reading contract. He told the Reading Evening
Post: "It's paper talk and I won't comment on speculation. I've said before
that we have no intention of losing any of our best players. "I spoke to
Nicky about his contract before the England call-up so discussions with him
have already started. "It's a busy time as he's also getting married and he
already has two years left on his present deal."

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Toon thrashing out Barton deal - TeamTalk

Newcastle are trying to push through their move for Manchester City
midfielder Joey Barton as discussions continue over the financial package.
The Magpies are understood to have offered more than half of the £5.5million
required to trigger his release from Eastlands up front with the balance to
come later this month.
However, with West Ham also on the 24-year-old's trail, City are holding out
for the full amount. Ironically, the Hammers' move for Newcastle skipper
Scott Parker could play a major role in his club's pursuit of Barton. The
26-year-old England international is understood to be in the capital to
undergo a medical after the two clubs agreed a fee which would represent a
profit on the £6.5million the Magpies paid Chelsea for his services two
summers ago. A successful conclusion to that deal would enable Sam Allardyce
to push home his interest in Barton, whose days at City were effectively
ended by his training ground bust-up with team-mate Ousmane Dabo.
The Huyton-born midfielder, who has also been a target for Middlesbrough, is
keen on a move to St James' Park, although the Hammers' interest has not
been dismissed out of hand and talks cannot begin until the financial issues
have been resolved. Having missed out on Reading's Steve Sidwell - who
seemed destined for Tyneside before Glenn Roeder's resignation but ended up
at Chelsea instead - Allardyce will be desperate to tie up the deal quickly
to land a man he placed high on his list of targets after arriving at St
James'. Barton's past is famously controversial, and although the midfielder
believes he has been demonised in certain quarters, the new Magpies boss's
track record for bringing the best out of his players is well documented.
Former Newcastle full-back Warren Barton is confident Allardyce could
harness his namesake and help him to fulfil his promise should he make the
move across the Pennines. He said: "I watched Joey a lot last season and I
have to say, he was one of the best players in that position during the
campaign. "If Newcastle can get him for that fee it would be a snip - he is
a quality player. "Big Sam has already helped straighten out players like
(Nicolas) Anelka and (El-Hadji) Diouf, so why can't he do the same with
Joey? "He can work with any player - he helped Gary Speed extend his
Premiership career to 37 and counting, and he knows how to deal with
different types of players."

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West Ham Unveil New Management - fgmag.com
04/06/2007

West Ham United Ladies have unveiled their new first team management team,
former U16 manager Tony Marshall takes the Hammers hot seat with former
Nottingham Forest coach, Alex Bonner, joining the club as his number two.
"This is the opportunity to take the Hammers forward," said Tony who has
managed every junior age group in the last six years with a superb success
level. "I have known Alex for years and used to play football with him in my
younger days, he has a wealth of experience which I shall be drawing on. He
was at Forest under Paul Hart, every manager needs a strong number two and
in Alex I certainly have a good man.
"We do have a fantastic youth policy at the club and there will be some
exciting times over the next few years as girls reach their sixteenth
birthdays and are able to play in senior football. We spent a lot of time
with the West Ham United Academy last season, where they know a thing or two
about bringing younger players through and the advice of people like Jimmy
Frith and Paul Heffer has been invaluable."
Following the recent pre-season trials Tony was impressed with some of the
players who attended: "I have told our existing first team squad that
everybody starts with a clean slate. Yes, some of the youngsters will be
pushing for places over the next few seasons but that is surely healthy for
the whole club. "I am hoping that the competition for places will help our
current squad raise their game. I am also looking forward to working with
our current senior squad, players like Julia Setford and Sam Pittuck who I
am looking to be role models right through our club, their experience will
be invaluable to Alex and myself. "I was also impressed with some of the
potential new signings we are looking at, it may take us a few seasons but I
firmly believe that we can take this club to the top level. We can only
achieve that goal by unity and in people like Steve Coombs, our reserve
manager, and coaches like Andi Woodley, and our younger coaches Angela
Murphy and Ray Woods, we now have a team all pulling together."
Tony has advised the girls to take any holidays during the month of June as
July is going to be a very busy time and has a very busy pre season training
schedule planned.

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Hammond: Shorey will stay - Football.co.uk
Monday Jun 04 2007 11:43

Reading's director of football Nick Hammond has poured scorn of reports
linking West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur with possible summer moves for
left-back Nicky Shorey. Hammond insists the new England cap is going
nowhere, with Shorey still having another two years left on his current
Royals deal. "It's paper talk and I won't comment on speculation," Hammond
told the Reading Evening Post. "I've said before that we have no intention
of losing any of our best players. "I spoke to Nicky about his contract
before the England call-up so discussions with him have already started.
"It's a busy time as he's also getting married and he already has two years
left on his present deal." Meanwhile, Hammond believes that Shorey's recent
international call will help establish the club as an option for more
top-class players.
He added: "I'm delighted for Nicky and this is thoroughly deserved as he's
an outstanding player. "It's also a reflection of the growing recognition
this club is getting. Players now know they can come to us and still go on
to be an England international. "That's certainly going to help this club
move forward and I'm delighted from that aspect."

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Everton anger at Hammers' move for Johnson - Daily Mail
Last updated at 10:32am on 4th June 2007

Everton have hit back at reports that West Ham are to make a big-money bid
for their star striker Andrew Johnson by insisting the player is not for
sale. The Hammers are reported to be interested in bringing the former
Crystal Palace forward back to London, and are said to be prepared to pay
between £13-18million for the England man. But Everton chief executive Keith
Wyness was adamant Johnson would remain at Goodison Park. Wyness told
evertonfc.com: "We have had no contact from any club with regard to Andrew
Johnson - nor would we welcome any. "Whilst I feel certain there will be
many Premiership clubs who will covet a player of Andrew's skills and
abilities, he is an Everton player and, as he made perfectly clear on
several occasions last season, he is very happy to be an Everton player."
The 26-year-old, who began his career at Birmingham before scoring goals
galore at Palace, scored 12 goals for the Toffees last season to help fire
them to UEFA Cup qualification. He joined Everton last summer in an
£8.6million deal, and although he missed the end of the season with an ankle
injury he is expected to be fit for the start of pre-season training.

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Everton: Johnson not for sale - thepost.ie
04/06/2007 - 9:51:36 AM

Everton have hit back at reports that West Ham are to make a big-money bid
for their star striker Andrew Johnson by insisting the player is not for
sale. The Hammers are reported to be interested in bringing the former
Crystal Palace forward back to London, and are said to be prepared to pay
between £13-18million for the England man. But Everton chief executive Keith
Wyness was adamant Johnson would remain at Goodison Park. Wyness told
evertonfc.com: "We have had no contact from any club with regard to Andrew
Johnson – nor would we welcome any. "Whilst I feel certain there will be
many Premiership clubs who will covet a player of Andrew's skills and
abilities, he is an Everton player and, as he made perfectly clear on
several occasions last season, he is very happy to be an Everton player."

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PARKER POISED TO COMPLETE HAMMERS SWITCH AS MAGPIES EYE BARTON -
Derbyshire.co.uk
Be the first reader to comment on this story
09:30 - 04 June 2007

Scott Parker is poised to join West Ham United today, with Newcastle likely
to replace him in their midfield with Joey Barton. It is understood that
26-year-old Magpies captain Parker has agreed terms with the Hammers, while
the clubs have agreed a fee for the player. And that is expected to pave the
way for Manchester City midfielder Barton to head further north and join the
St James' Park club. Current Hammers captain Nigel Reo-Coker handed in a
transfer request last week after his advisor claimed he had not been given
the right assurances over his future by the Barclays Premiership club. The
Hammers held discussions with the £7m-rated midfielder Parker on Thursday,
after fighting off late interest from London rivals Tottenham.

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Hammers to make double Everton raid - all3points.com
3rd June 2007
By Staff Writer

West Ham are set to make a double raid on Everton for Mikel Arteta and Andy
Johnson according to reports over the weekend. The Sunday Mirror claims West
Ham are about to embark on a £45 million spending spree and Johnson and
Arteta are a key part of their plans. In addition to the two from Everton
the paper claims that West Ham will also bring in Mark Viduka from
Middlesbrough and Manchester City's Joey Barton. With West Ham's Premiership
future seemingly no longer facing a legal challenge over the Carlos Teves
affair, new owner Eggart Magnusson is set to release the purse strings in an
attempt to build a side that will challenge for the UEFA cup places

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Defoe to make sensational Hammers return - all3points.com
3rd June 2007
By Staff Writer

Jermain Defoe will make a sensational return to West Hammer this summer.
Spurs are close to agreeing a £10 million deal with Charlton for Darren Bent
that will bring Defoe's time at the club to an end. West Ham, who were
reportedly interested in signing Bent as well, will turn their interests to
old boy Defoe despite the club's fans never forgiving him for walking out on
them on the dawn of their relegation from the Premiership in 2003. The News
of the World claims that Hammers boss Alan Curbishley believes the fans will
forgive Defoe, quoting a club insider as saying: "Alan is aware of the bad
blood towards Jermain but if they ask themselves will he improve the squad -
the answer is yes."

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Parker move hits problems - all3points.com
3rd June 2007
By Staff Writer

Scott Parker's move to West Ham is in threat after new Newcastle boss Sam
Allarydce refused to let him leave until the Magpies have secured the
services of Manchester City's Joey Barton.
Allarydce is reportedly concerned that he faces a challenge for Barton also
from West Ham and is playing hard ball over Parker to make sure he gets his
man. The terms of the deal that will finally see Parker move to the Hammers
have been agreed but City and Newcastle are currently in dispute over the
fee and payment terms for Barton. City want £5.5 million for Barton with
Newcastle currently not meeting that evaluation.

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£10 million striker confirms Spurs desire - all3points.com
3rd June 2007
By Staff Writer

Darren Bent has set his heart on a move to White Hart Lane according to
reports over the weekend despite West Ham offering him £60,000 a week. The
News of the World claims Bent is determined to join Spurs ignoring the
advances of West Ham because he wants to link up with Dimitar Berbatov. The
paper quotes Bent as saying: "West Ham have offered me incredible money but
I'm convinced Berbatov is staying at Spurs and I'd love to play alongside
him. "I believe we could form a great partnership."

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 4th June 2007

Collins and Gabbidon: Czech mates for Wales - WHUFC
03/06/2007 15:47

Danny Gabbidon and James Collins renewed their defensive partnership in
impressive fashion on Saturday as Wales earned a creditable point against
the Czech Republic in the latest round of Euro 2008 qualifying matches. The
Hammers duo played together in a competitive match for the first time since
January, and were back to their best as the highly-rated Czechs failed to
break the deadlock in a closely-fought 0-0 stalemate at the Millennium
Stadium. Gabbidon showed that he has fully recovered from the troublesome
groin injuries that ruled him out for most of the last campaign, while
Collins continued his superb end-of-season form with a number of timely
blocks and interceptions in front of goal. Elsewhere, two more heroes from
our successful relegation battle were also on international duty this
weekend. Lucas Neill captained Australia in a 2-1 friendly defeat against
Uruguay in Sydney, while Carlos Tevez was on target for Argentina as they
drew 1-1 with Switzerland in a warm-up match before the Copa America finals
this summer. Meanwhile, newly-appointed Northern Ireland coach Nigel
Worthington has opened the door for Hammers defender George McCartney to
make a return to international football in the near future. McCartney has
not played for his country since June 2005 following a fall-out with
previous coach Lawrie Sanchez, but could now be in line to add to his tally
of 19 full caps after Worthington offered a fresh start. "I don't know the
full scenario although I think George had his differences with Lawrie," said
the former Norwich City boss. "I know George was coming into the squad when
I was at the tail end of my international career, he's a very, very good
player and I don't think Northern Ireland is in a position to close the door
to too many Premiership players. "I will let George have a summer breather
but I will be speaking to him in the coming weeks. We'll have a chat to see
what his thoughts are and I think the biggest thing is the players want to
turn up and play for their country. "They will fly all over the world to
play for the team. Any player that wants to do that and show passion and
pride will be welcome in the squad. "I'll have a chat with George and I hope
he will want to play for his country again."

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Galey's review of the season: part one - WHUFC
02/06/2007 12:18

In a three-part special feature, former Upton Park favourite and regular
whufc.com columnist Tony Gale provides his own personal look back at the
unforgettable 2006-07 campaign, with part one reflecting on the eventful
first few months of the season…
Who'd have guessed what kind of a season we'd have in store after we won our
first game convincingly against Charlton at Upton Park back in August?
Everything looked rosy at that point in time and it seemed to be that the
only way was up. The Charlton game was followed by a decent point at
newly-promoted Watford and a good performance, despite the defeat, against
Liverpool at Anfield. Then, bang! The announcement that we were signing
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, plus the speculation of a takeover
hanging over the Club. I thought it was great news - two world class
players adding to an already decent squad. Unfortunately, in my personal
opinion, the Argentine boys were seen by a few of the players as a threat,
rather than two great signings. The manager, Alan Pardew, seemed to be a
little bit put off that they weren't actually his signings but were
additions that the previous board had made. If I was a manager I would have
probably felt the same, then on reflection felt that I was a lucky man to
have two great players on my plate. The two internationals were going to
have to take time to settle in to Premiership football and the English way
of life. This wasn't helped by a run of poor results, which everyone found
hard to explain. Looking at it from the outside, I thought that the existing
players who had done so well the previous season had started to take things
for granted and the second season in the top flight was becoming a real
slog. Dean Ashton's early season injury after being called up to the England
squad was a serious blow. I believe that Deano - had he been fit - would not
only have scored 20 goals in the Premiership but would have also been an
England regular. The youngsters in the squad were particularly affected and
their confidence was dipping alarmingly. Although we got the odd result here
and there, already early in the season the danger signs were showing…

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Blades confident of reinstatement - BBC

Sheffield United plc chairman Kevin McCabe is confident the club will be
reinstated to the Premiership. An arbitration panel on 18 June will hear the
Blades' claim against the Premier League's failure to dock West Ham points
over the Carlos Tevez saga. "I firmly believe we will win and the previous
decision will be overturned," McCabe told BBC Five Live Sport. "Officials
have said that if the arbitration overturns the previous decision then we
should be reinstated." The Blades are challenging a decision to fine West
Ham rather than dock them points and cancel striker Tevez's registration.
The Premier League had initially told Sheffield United, who were relegated
on the last day of the season, that they were wasting their time and money.
But McCabe claims officials have since told the club they will regain their
top-flight status if their claim is successful. Asked about what that would
mean to West Ham, who stayed up in 15th place while Sheffield United were
relegated on goal difference after finishing on the same number of points as
17th-placed Wigan, he said: "That's conjecture. That's not my issue, that is
one that has to rest firmly with the Premier League. "Our dispute is with
the Premier League."
The Blades chief said having an extra team in the Premiership was a
possibility. He added: "It seems a simple way of sorting things out but
again that is really for the board of the Premier League to decide and opine
upon." The issue has dragged on since March when the Hammers were charged by
the Premier League with breaching rules in relation to the signings of
Argentine duo Tevez and Javier Mascherano. Tevez and Mascherano, who has
since left for Liverpool, joined the club in August but their registration
with third party Media Sports Investment broke regulations. West Ham were
found guilty of acting improperly and withholding vital documentation over
the duo's ownership but they escaped a points deduction and Tevez was
allowed to continue playing. He was one of the major factors in the club's
late escape from the drop but the Blades have vowed to fight the Premier
League's decision. McCabe stated: "I think the Premier League accept they
wish the arbitration was not happening. "But in the knowledge it is
happening and it cannot be prevented, then if the decision is overturned we
should be reselected to the Premier League. "Since we really looked into the
whys and the wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong
decision was made. "There were circumstances behind the wrong decision but
we've looked at it and consulted with our lawyers and we're confident that
the arbitration will overturn it. "An injustice has been done - a club that
played within the rules has been relegated and a club that breached the
rules has been rewarded."
Actor and Sheffield United fan Sean Bean will lead a delegation to
Parliament on 13 June - five days before the arbitration looks at the
Blades' claim. McCabe has not ruled out taking the matter further if the
decision is not in their favour. He said: "The arbitration is critical to
our reinstatement to the Premier League. If there are other legal recourses
they may be looked into but we're all working hard towards 18 and 19 of
June."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hot gossip - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

West Ham United are lining up a move for Everton striker Andrew Johnson,
according to Monday's papers. The Mail carries a (tall?) story suggesting
that United are set to make a £13m bid for the forward, who is thought to be
looking to move back to London after failing to settle in the North West.
Elswhere Matthew Etherington - who has been told he can leave the club - is
said to be a target of newly-promoted Derby County, who are rumoured to be
willing to part with around £2m for the winger's services. Nigel Reo-Coker
continues to be linked with an £8m switch to Aston Villa; Glasgow Rangers
were also linked with the England under-21 captain yesterday - whilst
Manchester United wide-man Kieron Richardson was linked with a return to
East London over the weekend. Another possible departure could be Nigel
Quashie - signed just five months ago in a £2m switch from West Brom - who
is another Hammer said to be interesting Rangers boss Walter Smith. Finally
Eggert Magnusson is due to meet the representatives of Carlos Tevez this
week with view to extending the Argentinian's stay at West Ham. Despite
Magnusson's best efforts, the feeling inside the club remains that Tevez
will be playing elsewhere next season.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
I'd love to partner Tevez - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Dean Ashton has admitted that he would love to play alongside Carlos Tevez
for the Hammers next season. The 23-year-old striker missed the entire
2006/07 season through injury but is looking to once again make an impact
this coming term. And, he says, nothing would give him greater pleasure than
partnering the Argentinian striker. "I hope he can stay," Ashton told the
Mail. "He was fantastic, hungry, showed a great desire - and that is what
pulled us out in the end. "It would be a shame if he goes after just half a
season of playing like that." Meanwhile there was good news concerning
Ashton's long term injury. The former Norwich and Crewe striker revealed
that he was nearing full fitness once again with the help of former United
head physio John Green, who now works independently. And he admits that he
can't wait to get back to first team football after a miserable year. "I
just want to get back for the love of playing football," he said. "I want to
be part of a West Ham team that could be really special. "It's brilliant
for me that I will be playing Premiership football again next season. I've
had a season-long holiday, now I just want to get back to work, doing the
things I have missed, like shooting. You don't realise how much a striker
enjoys shooting, until he can't. "I want to come back quicker, stronger,
fitter. People have labelled me a bit slow, a bit big; I want to come back
and show that I'm strong, quick and fit. I want to be a better athlete."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker announcement tomorrow ( today ) - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Scott Parker will complete his transfer from Newcastle tomorrow after
agreeing personal terms with the Hammers. The 26-year-old midfielder is set
to undergo a medical tomorrow morning after which - assuming there are no
problems - his signing is set to be announced. Parker will cost the Hammers
in the region of £7m and becomes Alan Curbishley's first signing of what
promises to be a busy summer. One player that the Hammers appear to have
missed out on however is Joey Barton, who is set to sign for Newcastle as a
direct replacement for Parker later this week. Meanwhile Charlton striker
Darren Bent looks to have opted for Tottenham over the Hammers meaning that
Curbishley may now turn his attention to former Hammer Jermain Defoe, who
has struggled to hold down a first team spot at White Hart Lane. Defoe
incurred the wrath of United supporters when he requested a transfer less
than 24 hours after West Ham's relegation was confirmed back in May 2003.
However it appears that many fans have forgiven Defoe for his decision -
since blamed by the player himself on his agent - and would be ready to
welcome him back to the Boleyn Ground.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tevez on target - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Carlos Tevez continued his goalscoring ways by hitting the opening goal in
tonight's Switzerland v Argentina friendly. The United striker (technically,
at least) nodded home* Argentina's only goal in a 1-1 draw in Basle four
minutes into the second half. Tevez's header came via a cross from Lionel
Messi of Barcelona - just one of a number of clubs reportedly interested in
signing the 23-year-old striker next season. Argentina's lead was cancelled
out by Marco Streller for the Swiss, who also featured long-term Hammers
target Tranquillo Barnetta. Elsewhere James Collins and Danny Gabbidon were
in action for Wales against the Czech Republic in Cardiff this evening. The
European Championship Group D clash finished goalless - a result which,
barring a miracle, saw the end of Wales' chances of qualification for next
year's finals. American full-back Jon Spector is currently making his sixth
international appearance against China.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Whoopi calls it a day - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Former Hammer Rufus Brevett has announced his retirement from professional
football. The 37-year-old left-back - who spent two-and-a-half years with
the Hammers between 2003 and 2005 - hung up his boots this week after being
released by Conference outfit Oxford United. Jim Smith - recently appointed
as manager of the Us - told the Oxford Mail "Rufus has told me he is packing
in the game." Derby-born Brevett began his professional career with
Doncaster in 1988. Before becoming a Hammer he also played for QPR and
Fulham. Glenn Roeder signed the stocky full-back for £375,000 in the January
2003 transfer window, and it was with his help that United went so close to
avoiding relegation - although a tally of 42 points (a point more than the
Hammers gained last season) proved to be insufficent. Brevett - known
affectionately by Hammers fans as 'Whoopi', after the similarly-coiffured
Whoopi Goldberg - remained with the club in the Championship for the next
two seasons, although much of that time was spent on the sidelines. An
ankle injury kept him out of action for nearly a year before he was released
in the summer of 2005 after making just 29 first-team appearances.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
They wouldn't let it lie ... - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel

Sheffield United have vowed to continue their fight for 'justice' - despite
being stripped of their Premier League membership yesterday. The Blades saw
their Premiership share - one of which is given to every member club at the
beginning of each season - passed on to Derby County, who have replaced them
in the 07/08 line-up. Despite earlier threats suggesting that they would try
to hijack the meeting, it was attended by the 20 member clubs only. Despite
officially being a Football League club now, the Blades are clinging on to
the vain hope that an arbitration hearing on June 18th will reinstate them
in the Premier League. Lord Justice Sir Philip Otton will chair the panel
alongside David Pannick QC (chosen by Sheffield United), and leading
barrister Nicholas Randall (nominated by the Premier League). Although the
panel cannot overturn the decision to fine the Hammers £5.5m they could yet
rule that the judgement was flawed and award compensation to the Blades.
Their Chairman - Kevin McCabe - has all but run out of options, yet insists
that he will take the matter to the House of Lords AND the European
Parliament should the hearing return a favourable verdict. However the
Premier League have all but said that the enquiry is a waste of time, and
little more than a case of going through the motions. West Ham's Premier
League status will not be affected.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker closes on Hammers move - Sky
By Alex Livie - Created on 3 Jun 2007

Scott Parker has agreed personal terms with West Ham, according to Sky
Sports News. The midfielder was given permission to speak to The Hammers
after Newcastle accepted a bid believed to be in the region of £8.5million.
Hammers chief Alan Curbishley is a huge fan of Parker, having shaped his
career at Charlton, and it would appear as if the midfielder is keen to link
up with his former manager at Upton Park as he is reported to have agreed
personal terms. Sky Sports News have been informed all that stands between
Parker and a move to West Ham is a medical, which is expected to take place
on Monday. Newcastle are likely to act quickly to offset the loss of Parker,
as Manchester City winger Joey Barton is on the cusp of a transfer to St
James' Park.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blades hopeful for appeal - Sky
By Robin Hackett - Created on 3 Jun 2007

Sheffield United's hopes of staying in the top flight have been given a
boost after they were informed that they may not be relegated if they win
their arbitration hearing. The Blades remain adamant that West Ham should
have been docked points over the controversial signings of Carlos Tevez and
Javier Mascherano, and have managed to persuade the Pre ier League to set up
an arbitration panel. And Sheffield United plc chairman Kevin McCabe claims
he has been told that, if the panel decide in their favour, they will be
re-established as a Premiership side. "I firmly believe Sheffield United
will win and the previous decision will be overturned for reasons of an
irrational decision that was made by the first panel," he told BBC Radio
Five Live. "What the (Premier League) officials have said to myself and
other colleagues is that, if the arbitration overturns the previous
decision, Sheffield United should be reinstated to the Premier League."
And McCabe is ready to take things further should the club win the
arbitration but be denied the chance to return to the Premiership. "I can
say to the fans that I believe we will win the arbitration and then it rests
with the Premier League to decide thereafter. "People from the Premier
League have indicated we will be reinstated if we win. "Our view is that the
arbitration is critical for our reinstatement to the Premier League. If
there are other recourses, they may be looked into, but we are all working
hard towards the 18th and 19th June."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Premier League to create 'Tevez's Law' - Soccernet

Premier League clubs have reacted to the Carlos Tevez row by seeking to
clear up any confusion over third party influence in the purchase of players
at their annual general meeting. West Ham escaped with a £5.5million fine
instead of being docked points for signing third-party agreements in
contravention of league rules when an independent commission ruled on the
nature of the deals that took Tevez and Javier Mascherano - now with
Liverpool - to Upton Park. The third-party agreements were with Iranian-born
businessman Kia Joorabchian and the Hammers were ordered to end the
agreement by the commission. But the Hammers did not have to cancel Tevez's
registration and went on to escape relegation with the Argentinian playing a
key role.
The commission ruling provoked fury from the Hammers' relegation rivals
including Sheffield United, who were relegated on the final day of the
Premiership season. The Premier League have since agreed to set up an
arbitration tribunal to rule on the Blades' complaints over the registration
of Tevez. A Premier League statement on today's AGM said: 'It was decided,
for the sake of clarity, to adopt a rule making the disclosure of all
documents relating to the transfer of a player's registration and any other
relevant third party contracts or arrangements explicit.'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCabe confident on Tevez - Telegraph
By Jeremy Cross
Last Updated: 2:26am BST 04/06/2007

Kevin McCabe, the Sheffield United plc chairman, insists he is confident the
club will be successful in their campaign to be reinstated to the
Premiership. An arbitration panel will sit on June 18 in London to hear
United's claim against the Premier League's failure to dock West Ham points
over the Carlos Tevez saga. The Yorkshire club are challenging a decision to
fine West Ham rather than deduct them points and cancel the registration of
Tevez, the Argentine forward. The Premier League had initially told United,
who were relegated on the last day of the season, that they were wasting
their time and money. However, McCabe claims officials from the same
organisation have told him that his club will regain their top-flight status
should their claim be successful.
McCabe, who has enlisted the help of Hollywood actor and lifelong supporter
Sean Bean, said: "I firmly believe we will win and the previous decision
will be overturned. Officials have said that if the arbitration overturns
the previous decision then we should be reinstated. I think the Premier
League accept they wish the arbitration was not happening, but in the
knowledge it is happening and it cannot be prevented, then if the decision
is overturned we should be reselected. "Since we really looked into the whys
and the wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong
decision was made. "There were circumstances behind the wrong decision but
we've looked at it and consulted with our lawyers and we're confident that
the arbitration will overturn it. "An injustice has been done - a club that
played within the rules has been relegated and a club that breached the
rules has been rewarded. "The arbitration is critical to our reinstatement
to the Premier League. If there are other legal recourses they may be looked
into but we're all working hard towards 18 and 19 of June."
Nicolas Anelka claims he has no plans to leave Bolton, but admits he "could
not say no" to an offer from Manchester United. He said: "In England the
same four clubs are always on top [United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool].
So I want to play for those four big clubs, but I also want to work with
Bolton to become like one of those four big clubs and create a surprise."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker deal to pave way for Joey - TeamTalk

England midfielder Scott Parker is poised to join West Ham on Monday, with
Newcastle likely to replace him in their midfield with Joey Barton. It is
understood that 26-year-old Magpies captain Parker has agreed terms with the
Hammers, while the clubs have agreed a fee for the player. And that is
expected to pave the way for Manchester City midfielder Barton to head north
and join the St James' Park club. Current Hammers captain Nigel Reo-Coker
handed in a transfer request last week after his advisor claimed he had not
been given the right assurances over his future by the Premiership club. The
Hammers held discussions with midfielder Parker on Thursday, after fighting
off late interest from London rivals Tottenham. The £7million-rated former
Charlton and Chelsea player met West Ham officials and is now expected to
become Alan Curbishley's first signing of the summer. And Newcastle are
likely to immediately plug the gap in their midfield by landing
controversial 24-year-old Barton. The Magpies can get the player if they
meet the £5.5million figure stated in the England international's contract.
Barton missed the closing weeks of the season after being suspended by City
following a training ground incident involving team-mate Ousmane Dabo.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rams and Latics open door for Matt - TeamTalk

Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2million of his £10million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan. The Rams
chief is reeling from the news that star winger Giles Barnes has suffered a
broken foot - and also needs to rebuild his Pride Park squad after releasing
eight players this week. Etherington is Davies' number one target and would
jump at the chance of a move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out
of favour since Alan Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was
a firm fixture in former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in
Curbishley's plans following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from
Fulham. Etherington has also attracted the interest of Latics boss Chris
Hutchings, though, as he wants more competition for Kevin Kilbane on the
left wing and has been given a £20million warchest by Dave Whelan.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rangers making plans for Nigel - TeamTalk

Rangers are reportedly set to make a move for West Ham's Scotland
international midfielder Nigel Quashie. Quashie could find himself out of
favour at Upton Park next season as Alan Curbishley embarks on a summer
spending spree. Ibrox boss Walter Smith is a big fan of the combative
midfielder and could make a swoop after Wigan slapped a £2.5million price
tag on Wigan's Lee McCulloch, according to the Sunday Mail. It is claimed
the Hammers would let Quashie, who almost joined the 'Gers when Alex McLeish
was manager, leave for a fee of around £1.5million. The midfielder's
proposed loan move to Ibrox in January 2006 fell through due to speculation
over the future of McLeish, who left the club just four months later. At the
time, Quashie said: "There was constant talk of Alex leaving. If I went
there and he left a few weeks later, that would have put me in a difficult
position. "David Murray and Alex were brilliant with me but it was a complex
situation." Quashie was called up for Scotland by former boss Berti Vogts
despite winning England Under-21 honours and has played 14 times, with eight
of his caps coming during Smith's spell in charge of the national team. He
played for QPR, Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth, Southampton and West Brom
before his January move to West Ham.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blades confident of Prem return - TeamTalk

Kevin McCabe insists he has been informed by a high-level Premier League
official that Sheffield United could be restored to the top flight. Chairman
McCabe claims the relegated Blades could be reinstated if they win their
arbitration hearing in two weeks' time. He is refusing to give up the fight
over his conviction that West Ham should have been docked points over the
Carlos Tevez affair and expects an independent panel to find in his club's
favour. McCabe told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek: "I firmly believe
Sheffield United will win and the previous decision will be overturned for
reasons of an irrational decision that was made by the first panel. "What
the [Premier League] officials have said to myself and other colleagues is
that if the arbitration overturns the previous decision, that Sheffield
United should be reinstated to the Premier League." The Blades were
relegated from the top flight after a final day defeat at home to Wigan.
West Ham - who escaped with a £5.5million fine for their conduct in the
transfer and registration of Tevez and Javier Mascherano - survived. Despite
insisting they would not accept their fate, the Blades subsequently parted
company with long-time manager Neil Warnock and appointed former West Brom
boss Bryan Robson in his place. McCabe insists his confidence has never
wavered for a moment, adding: "Since we really looked into the whys and
wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong decision had
been made. "We have looked at it and obviously consulted with our lawyers
and QCs and we are really confident that arbitration will overturn it. I am
just happier that we are now only two weeks away from D-Day." But McCabe
also hinted the Blades would not let the matter rest if they were to win
their arbitration hearing only to find the Premier League blocked their way
back into the top flight. "I can say to the fans that I believe we will win
the arbitration and then it rests with the FA Premier League to decide
thereafter. People from the Premier League have indicated we will be
reinstated if we win.
"Our view is that the arbitration is critical for our reinstatement to the
Premier League. If there are other legal recourses they may be looked into,
but we are all working hard towards the 18th and 19th of June."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to offer £13m for Johnson and £90,000 a week - This Is London
03.06.07

West Ham will enter the summer spending frenzy with a £13million offer for
Andrew Johnson and the promise of £90,000-a-week wages. The deal, which
would more than double Johnson's earnings at Everton, would be worth £4.7m a
year. The England striker is aware of the interest and although West Ham
expect Everton to rebuff their opening bid, the London club are prepared to
go as high as £18m, which could prove too good to turn down. West Ham are
already set to complete a £7m deal for Newcastle midfielder Scott Parker,
who has agreed a £72,000-a-week contract. Now Hammers chief Alan Curbishley,
backed b y Icelandic billionaire Thor Bjorgolfsson, wants Johnson as the
club target Champions League football within the next three seasons.
Johnson, who scored 11 Premiership goals for Everton last season, would
become the highest paid player in Hammers history if their bid is
successful. Goodison Park manager David Moyes, who is planning for a UEFA
Cup campaign next season, is forced to work with a limited budget and is
struggling to raise the £6m required to buy Phil Jagielka from relegated
Sheffield United. Curbishley, resigned to losing Carlos Tevez, will make
Lucas Neill captain next season with skipper Nigel Reo-Coker set for Aston
Villa after his outburst last week. There is also no future at the club for
Paul Konchesky, Matt Etherington and Hayden Mullins. The Parker transfer,
which is subject to a medical, clears the way for Newcastle to tie up a
£5.5m move for Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton. In a tribute to St
James' Park boss Sam Allardyce, Barton said last night: "He's a good
manager, he showed that at Bolton. At Newcastle the sky's the limit. If the
club decide to do business it's up to me to speak to them."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ashton is next in line for the physio who fixed Owen - This Is London
03.06.07

Jumping, sprinting, stretching, pushing, recovering. A new, improved Dean
Ashton will soon appear at a football ground near you. Remember Ashton? The
FA Cup Final of 2006, 13 long months ago, was his last game. It's a whole
season since he was picked in the England team to play against Greece in
Steve McClaren's first international. New England coach, new centre forward
to lead the line. Then, the day before his debut, Ashton broke his left
ankle on the training ground. Last Friday, as England were preparing to face
Brazil, Ashton was completing his sixth day of intense training in a week.
There will be no summer holiday and while Saturdays are currently his day
off, he's not keen on the rest. "I've had a season-long holiday," he said.
"Now I just want to get back to work, doing the things I have missed, like
shooting. You don't realise how much a striker enjoys shooting, until he
can't."
Hired to restore him to the front line is freelance physio John Green, the
man responsible for the new-look Michael Owen and Kieron Dyer. Now Ashton is
his patient and they will work one-onone throughout the summer to give West
Ham back their centreforward. So Ashton's pre-season is under way now, in
early June, and he has great faith in his personal physio. "You only have to
look at how fantastic Michael looks, considering the injuries he has had. I
have massive confidence in John, too, and that he will get me back a better
player than before. "I want to come back quicker, stronger, fitter. People
have labelled me a bit slow, a bit big; I want to come back and show that
I'm strong, quick, fit and add that to my technical game and my footballing
brain. I want to be a better athlete."
Green, who was West Ham's physio for 15 years, added: "It's not just a case
of rehabilitating the ankle. Dean wants me to work with him holistically, he
wants me to make him quicker and stronger while maintaining his mobility. We
are also working on nutrition, as well as upper body strength. Things are
looking good." Some positive news, then, for West Ham after a season packed
with misfortunes. "I've been like the Invisible Man around this club,
ghosting in and then ghosting out again. I've read some books, watched some
games. I stopped coming to the matches because it was so very difficult,
feeling helpless," recalled Ashton. "There has been a hell of a lot going on
around here. Since I last played everything has changed — the board, the
manager, the players. The lads joke that there is so much going on, this
club is a bit like EastEnders."
Ashton, with a broad northern accent that echoes around the empty dining
room at Chadwell Heath training ground, is grateful for Green's company in
the lonely struggle to return to fitness.
"It's hard to cope when you are injured long-term," said Green. "You are
often left to yourself because the nature of a medical team within a
football club is that they are under pressure.
"I've been through relegation and promotion. I know it is easy to be
distracted. The board want a medical update, the manager wants to know if
his midfielder will be fit in time, a training injury may require instant
treatment. I've been affected by that and regretted the impact it has had on
a player's health and care. You can't help it, because the short-term
injuries are the priority. Can you get the player fit for Saturday? The
long-term injured suffer as a result of that. It happens at all clubs.
"That's where a nomadic physio works. He can come in and fight fires — and
then disappear. It worked for Newcastle, with Kieron and Michael, where I
was able to give them that one - on- one attention, to help them recover
fitness and hopefully to prevent future injuries. It's great to see them
both back, now it's time to concentrate on Dean."
Green describes his new patient as absolutely first class, very driven and
interested in what we are doing.' Ashton, who required a second operation to
clear scar tissue around the injured ankle, now has his goal in sight. "I
don't remember much about the tackle that injured me, I wouldn't place any
blame on Shaun Wright-Phillips. I was devastated, it was my dream to play
for my country and I was feeling the best I had ever felt. To go from that
to not being able to walk . . . "There is no secret to trying to cope with a
long-term injury. It's horrible, simple as that. Some days you feel fine,
other days it's the worst thing in the world. You have to keep away from the
thought of not playing."
Ashton could not watch the relegation scramble unfolding but hopes that he
can one day play alongside Carlos Tevez. "I hope he can stay. He was
fantastic, hungry, showed a great desire, that is what pulled us out in the
end. It would be a shame if he goes after just half a season of playing like
that. "Personally, I just want to get back for the love of playing football,
the joy of going out and kicking a ball. I'll be so grateful to get back to
that. I want to be part of a West Ham team that could be really special.
"It's brilliant for me that I will be playing Premiership football again
next season. I wouldn't have been looking to leave even if we had gone down;
clubs don't sign injured players, do they? "I also hope to try to get back
into Steve McClaren's thinking. Hopefully, he still sees me as part of his
plans."
Owen back, Ashton on his way as Dean and Green work in harmony. With
McClaren short on forwards and goals as he heads for Estonia tomorrow
morning, he will surely be pleased to learn about this latest story of
recovery.

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Sunday Paper Round-Up - KUMB Forums

Sunday Mirror

WEST HAM are embarking on a £45million spending spree to safeguard their
Premiership future. The Hammers aim to follow up the signing of Newcastle's
Scott Parker by targeting Everton duo Andy Johnson and Mikel Arteta. They
are also locked in a battle with the Magpies over Australian striker Mark
Viduka. Parker's move to Upton Park is yet to be finalised after the
Hammers' valuation fell short of Newcastle asking price of £7m. The deal is
expected to go through at the start of the week because, contrary to reports
there is no interest in Parker from T*tenham. Viduka, who is currently on
holiday in Melbourne, has been given the weekend to decide on a move to West
Ham or Newcastle. The latter are favourites to clinch his signature, despite
offering him less money than the Hammers to make a switch from their
North-East rivals Middlesbrough. West Ham are currently scouting a number of
European targets but have ruled out any plans to make a move for Manchester
City's troubled midfielder Joey Barton. But while the Hammers step up their
recruitment campaign they are having major problems off-loading nearly £40m
worth of players put up for sale by Alan Curbishley at the end of the
season. Offers deemed derisory by the club have been rejected while there
have been no inquiries for captain Nigel Reo-Coker.

NOTW

DARREN BENT is set to turn his back on West Ham's £60,000-a-week offer so he
can sign for deadly rivals Sp*rs. Charlton's England striker is confident he
can form a dream partnership with Dimitar Berbatov at White Hart Lane. Bent
admitted to a pal: "West Ham have offered me incredible money but I'm
convinced Berbatov is staying at Sp*rs and I'd love to play alongside him.
"I believe we could form a great partnership." Charlton want a staggering
£20million for Bent and Sp*rs have offered £10m — £1m more than West Ham.
And that could see Hammers boss Alan Curbishley make a shock raid for Sp*rs
striker Jermain Defoe — who handed in a transfer request at Upton Park 24
hours after their relegation in 2003. A club insider said: "Alan is aware of
the fans' bad blood towards Jermain but if they ask themselves will he
improve the squad — the answer is 'Yes'." "He is a top class striker who did
not play regularly for Sp*rs last season and is desperate for first-team
football. "The European Championships are coming up and Jermain will know he
needs to be banging in the goals to be given a proper chance with England."
Defoe is behind Berbatov and Robbie Keane-recently handed a new five-year
deal-in the White Hart Lane pecking order and will fall further behind with
the impending arrival of Bent.
And Upton Park chairman Eggert Magnusson is ready to splash out on a
top-class striker to partner Dean Ashton next season.

Mail on Sunday

Across the city, Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill looks set to start his
summer spending spree this week by signing West Ham skipper Nigel Reo-Coker
for £7m. Reo-Coker put in a transfer request at Upton Park eight days ago
and, as reported in last week's Mail on Sunday, Villa were always favourites
to land the 22-year-old midfielder. Villa have now opened talks with West
Ham. Villa are also in the chase for Charlton's England defender Luke Young,
although West Ham boss Alan Curbishley was Young's manager at The Valley and
is keen to reunite him with Scott Parker, who is arriving from Newcastle

The Independent

Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton admits he may be open to offers from
other clubs. The controversial 24-year-old missed the closing weeks of the
season after being suspended by City following a training ground incident
involving his team-mate Ousmane Dabo. Barton claims he has too much respect
for City fans to talk about joining specific clubs but has to think about
his future if the club decide to sell. Sam Allardyce, the Newcastle manager,
has been linked with a £5.5 million bid for the 24-year-old, especially if
Scott Parker completes a £7m switch to West Ham United. Barton said: "If the
club decided that they don't want to keep me and they want to accept an
offer then so be it, I've got to look after Joey Barton and my family as
well. "I'll listen to what people have got to say and if they've got a great
desire for me to play for their football club then that's all the attention
that you need." Barton thanked the City fans for their support but
reiterated his belief that the club have underachieved. Barton has been
involved in a number of high-profile incidents and accepts he has an image
problem, but is keen to alter perceptions.
Barton said: "It is disappointing people have a certain opinion, but I meet
countless people who will testify, 'You're not the person you're made out to
be'. At certain times I don't do myself any favours, but to make out I'm
some kind of yob, some kind of psychopath, is so far from the truth it's
unreal."

The Observer

Darren Bent will not be allowed to leave Charlton unless their valuation of
£15m is met. The striker's future is unclear as he has yet to hold
discussions with the club and will do so when he returns from holiday. 'He's
in the Caribbean at the moment and doesn't want to discuss anything until he
gets back,' an executive at the club told Observer Sport. 'There's actually
been no offers for him. But if we don't get the asking price he isn't going.
We turned down £15million in January. And that was from a club outside the
big four - Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. We had to turn
that down then because we still had a chance of avoiding relegation.'
Charlton have also decided against joining Fulham's support of Sheffield
United over the Carlos Tevez affair. The Yorkshire club want the punishment
of West Ham by the Premier League's independent commission to be reviewed.
Portsmouth are still interested in buying Middlesbrough striker Mark Viduka,
but only if they are unable to bring Yakubu, the Australian's team-mate,
back to Fratton Park. 'We are not the only club interested in Viduka,' said
a source at Portsmouth. 'Wages might be the problem, though. He wants
£60,000 a week. But as it's doubtful whether we can afford Yakubu, we would
have to consider Viduka's demands.' Middlesbrough paid Portsmouth £7.5m for
Yakubu two years ago.
Joey Barton has admitted that he is interested in talking to other clubs
about a move away from Manchester City. 'If the club have decided that they
don't want to keep me and they want to accept an offer then so be it,' said
the controversial midfielder. 'I'll listen to what people have to say and if
they've got a great desire for me to play for their football club than
that's all the attention that you need.' The 24-year-old renewed his
criticism of City's failure to progress. 'We have achieved nothing at Man
City and I think of the fan base there and the support structure within the
club - the club should be achieving.' Newcastle and West Ham are reportedly
interested in Barton, who is under police inquiry after a bust-up with
team-mate Ousmane Dabo.

Sunday People

Curbishley is locked in a race with Blackburn and Aston Villa for the new
Welsh captain's signature, but he is edging in front. The Hammers, backed by
their Icelandic millions, are paying big wages and Bellamy can bag a pay
rise at Upton Park - something that Rovers and Villa are reluctant to grant.
All three clubs have been jockeying for position since Bellamy became an
Anfield outcast but none of them are ready to pay the £12 million asking
price. However, if after private talks with the clubs involved, Bellamy
expresses a personal and professional preference, then it is possible he
will push for a move and try to get the fee reduced. Liverpool paid £6.3
million for the player a year ago and would like a profit, but they may
settle for £8 million - which is also within West Ham's budget.

CARLTON STRIKES IT UNLUCKY

CARLTON COLE got the full VIP treatment at the opening of London's newest -
and biggest - gambling den, the Casino At The Empire, on Wednesday. The West
Ham striker and a mate were given a comprehensive tour, and his pal told
their guide that Cole was looking for somewhere he'd be able "to get away
from the spotlight". He was duly informed that the casino would be perfect
as, "We've thrown out attractive blondes before for pestering our
customers". At which point the player's face dropped.

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Parker not so keen to leaveJun 4 2007
By Luke Edwards, The Journal

Scott Parker has attempted to get out of a £7m move to West Ham United as he
is reluctant to leave Newcastle United despite an increasingly difficult
relationship with some of the club's fans.
But United's captain feels he is being pushed towards the exit door as new
manager Sam Allardyce is desperate to sign controversial midfielder Joey
Barton to replace him. The Journal understands Parker has told Allardyce he
wants to stay on Tyneside as club captain and prove his critics wrong next
season. But that plea, while respected by Allardyce, has not persuaded
Newcastle's manager that West Ham's offer should be turned down and the
26-year-old is expected to complete a move back to London this week. "Scott
wants to stay at Newcastle but he doesn't feel as though the club want to
keep him," said a source close to the player. "He had a few problems with
some sections of the club's supporters recently but he was keen to come back
and prove them wrong next season rather than leave.

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Portsmouth, West Ham tracking Reading's Hunt
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt is attracting rival Premiership interest.
The People says the Irish winger, 25, has a year left on his deal but is
preparing for talks on an improved contract, with West Ham and Portsmouth
poised if agreement can't be reached.

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West Ham to offer Liverpool's Bellamy £70,000-a-week deal
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is ready to trump rivals with a mega
contract offer for Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy. The People says
Curbishley is ready to win the wages war for Craig Bellamy - and pay him a
staggering £70,000-a-week to quit Liverpool. Curbishley is locked in a race
with Blackburn and Aston Villa for the new Welsh captain's signature, but he
is edging in front. Liverpool paid £6.3 million for the player a year ago
and would like a profit, but they may settle for £8 million - which is also
within West Ham's budget.

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Birmingham, West Ham move for Colchester keeper Gerken
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce is eyeing Colchester goalkeeper Dean
Gerken. The 21-year-old has had another successful season, in which he also
caught the eye of West Ham manager Alan Curbishley.

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West Ham cut loose Kepa Blanco
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

West Ham United have decided against a permanent deal for Spanish striker
Kepa Blanco. He has returned to Sevilla after his loan with the Hammers
expired last week.

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West Ham to hand Parker £72,000-a-week deal
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

Newcastle United midfielder Scott Parker will join West Ham today on massive
wages. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley, backed by Icelandic billionaire Thor
Bjorgolfsson, has agreed a £7 million fee with Newcastle for Parker, who
will put pen to paper on a long-term £72,000-a-week contract.

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West Ham boss Curbishley pushes through clearout
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is ready to accelerate plans for a
clearout this summer. Nigel Reo-Coker is expected to join Aston Villa, while
Paul Konchesky, Matt Etherington and Hayden Mullins are also being shown the
door at Upton Park, says the Daily Mail.

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Rams Hope To Acquire Etherington 04/06/07 - Soccer365

Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2 million of his £10 million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan. The Rams
chief is reeling from the news that star winger Giles Barnes has suffered a
broken foot - and also needs to rebuild his Pride Park squad after releasing
eight players this week. Etherington is Davies' number one target and would
jump at the chance of a move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out
of favour since Alan Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was a
firm fixture in former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in
Curbishley's plans following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from
Fulham. Etherington has also attracted the interest of Latics boss Chris
Hutchings, though, as he wants more competition for Kevin Kilbane on the
left wing and has been given a £20million warchest by Dave Whelan.

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'Gers Turn Attention To Quashie 04/06/07 - Socce365

Rangers are reportedly set to make a move for West Ham midfielder Nigel
Quashie. The Scotland international could find himself out-of-favour at
Upton Park next season as Alan Curbishley embarks on a summer spending
spree. Ibrox boss Walter Smith is a big fan of the combative midfielder and
could make a swoop after Wigan slapped a £2.5million price tag on Wigan's
Lee McCulloch, according to the Sunday Mail. It is claimed the Hammers would
let Quashie, who almost joined the 'Gers when Alex McLeish was manager,
leave for a fee of around £1.5million.
The midfielder's proposed loan move to Ibrox in January 2006 fell through
due to speculation over the future of McLeish, who left the club just four
months later. At the time Quashie said: "There was constant talk of Alex
leaving. If I went there and he left a few weeks later that would have put
me in a difficult position. "David Murray and Alex were brilliant with me
but it was a complex situation." Quashie was called up for Scotland by
former boss Berti Vogts despite winning England Under-21 honours and has
played 14 times, with eight of his caps coming during Smith's spell in
charge of the national team. He played for QPR, Nottingham Forest,
Portsmouth, Southampton and West Brom before his January move to West Ham.

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Derby rival Wigan for West Ham's Etherington
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007

Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2million of his £10million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan.
Etherington is Davies' number one target and would jump at the chance of a
move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out of favour since Alan
Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was a firm fixture in
former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in Curbishley's plans
following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from Fulham.

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Bent seeks Spurs move - NetAddicks
By Trevor
Date: 3/6/2007

Striker Darren Bent is said to favour a move to Tottenham over West Ham
United according to reports in todays media. Spurs are prepared to pay
Charlton £10m for the forward but the Addicks insist that a figure closer to
£15m is more realistic. A close friend of Bent's has spoken out saying he
would love to pair up with Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov in what he
see's as a dream partnership. Darren has reportedly told a close friend:
"West Ham have offered me incredible money but I'm convinced that Berbatov
is staying at Spurs and I'd love to play alongside him, I belive we could
form a great Partnership." Charlton though are not happy at the fee Spurs
are prepared to pay for Bent and are said to be holding out for £15m.

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