Solano plays part in Peru point - WHUFC
Nolberto Solano featured against Brazil on Sunday but is suspended on
Wednesday
18.11.2007
Nolberto Solano was back in World Cup qualifying action for Peru on Sunday
as they earned a creditable 1-1 draw against a Brazil side boasting Kaka and
Ronaldinho.
The West Ham United midfielder played the entire 90 minutes in an advanced
position on the right-hand side, in support of Claudio Pizarro and Jefferson
Farfan. Despite his best efforts in front of a passionate home crowd in
Lima, Solano could not inspire his side to victory in the third game of
their qualifying campaign for the 2010 finals in South Africa.
AC Milan attacker Kaka broke the deadlock in stunning fashion just before
the interval. Solano showed up well after the break, firing in a decent
half-chance that just went over on 50 minutes, as chances on target were
generally few and far between. He then went into the book in the 66th minute
for a sliding challenge on Kaka - a caution that will rule him out of
Wednesday's qualifier in Ecuador.
Peru were rewarded for some sustained pressure five minutes later when Juan
Vargas struck a deflected equaliser. Juan hit the crossbar in the last
couple of seconds for Brazil but Peru held on to earn a precious qualifying
point. Because of his one-match ban, Solano, who came out of international
retirement in the hope of securing a first taste of the World Cup finals,
will be next in action with Sunday's visit of Tottenham Hotspur.
Peru began their qualifying campaign last month with a 0-0 home draw and 2-0
away defeat against Paraguay and Chile respectively. The South American zone
is decided over two years in a league format with all ten competing nations
playing each other on a home and away basis. The top four qualify for the
finals with the fifth-placed team going into a play-off with a side from the
North, Central American and Caribbean zone.
Elsewhere on Sunday, John Pantsil played at right-back for an experienced
Ghana side featuring the likes of Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah in a 2-0
home friendly victory against Togo. The friendly match was part of a
four-team mini-tournament being staged by Ghana as a warm-up for their
hosting duties in the African Cup of Nations in January. To read a round-up
of all the Saturday international action, click here.
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Team-mates wait on EURO fate - WHUFC
Only one of Freddie Ljungberg and George McCartney can play at EURO 2008
17.11.2007
Freddie Ljungberg and George McCartney both have to wait until Wednesday
night to find out which one will have the chance of going to the EURO 2008
finals at the other's expense.
On Saturday, Sweden's 3-0 defeat in Spain, with midfielder Ljungberg playing
the full 90 minutes as captain, and Northern Ireland's 2-1 home win against
Denmark, a result that left-back McCartney missed as he recovers from an
ankle injury, means both countries will learn their fate in midweek. Spain,
with 25 points, have made sure of one of the two qualification places from
Group F. They are two points ahead of Sweden and five in front of Northern
Ireland with one game to play.
In Wednesday's final qualifiers, Ljungberg's side will seal qualification if
they get just a point against Latvia in Solna. Northern Ireland, meanwhile,
need Sweden to lose and then must win at home against already-qualified
Spain in Belfast to secure the second qualifying position. Those two results
would see the nations finish level on 23 points but Northern Ireland, after
a 2-1 home win and a 1-1 draw away, have the better head to head record.
Other Hammers in international action on Saturday included Lucas Neill, with
the club captain playing centre-back as Australia secured a 1-0 friendly
triumph against Nigeria in a match played at Fulham's Craven Cottage. The
same result was enough to leave Jonathan Spector happy, with the versatile
defender coming on at right-back for the second 45 minutes of the United
States' 1-0 success against South Africa in Johannesburg.
James Collins and Danny Gabbidon both played for Wales in a 2-2 home draw
against the Republic of Ireland, although the result was academic as both
nations have been eliminated from the race for the EURO 2008 finals.
Christian Dailly, on loan at Southampton until Saturday, missed out entirely
as Scotland lost 2-1 at home to Italy to see their summer dream dashed at
the final hurdle. Elsewhere, Henri Camara opened the scoring and made
another in a lively display in Paris as Senegal were 3-2 winners against
Mali.
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Ljungberg looking for big week - WHUFC
Fit-again Freddie Ljungberg is hoping to celebrate with both club and
country
18.11.2007
Freddie Ljungberg is fighting fit and is targeting a double success in the
next week - first leading Sweden to EURO 2008 and then helping West Ham
United win the London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
The midfielder has been back in full training over the past fortnight,
making a return to the bench for last Saturday's 5-0 victory at Derby
County, and paid tribute to the efforts made to get him back in contention.
"I am happy to be back to full strength with my body," he said. "I feel
strong and have had lots of time to recover. The last week at West Ham felt
good, and I had great support from our rehab staff."
Ljungberg will hope to figure against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, not least
because as a former Arsenal player he would get the chance to put one over
old rivals while there is also the prospect of six games unbeaten for the
club. "I am looking forward to coming back, after the international games,
to West Ham," he added. "Our next game is a local derby against Spurs and
important to both clubs in a number of ways."
First up are his responsibilities as Sweden captain, a role he takes very
seriously. "I am always proud to represent Sweden. In recent years as
captain, this honour is even greater." The Scandinavian nation, who are
competing with Northern Ireland for qualification from Group F, only need a
point from Wednesday's visit of Latvia to make sure of their place in
Switzerland and Austria next summer - even after a 3-0 defeat in Spain on
Saturday.
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Collison proves a Welsh wonder - WHUFC
The rapid rise of 19-year-old reserve-team captain Jack Collison has
continued
17.11.2007
Jack Collison made a dream start to his Wales Under-21 career with a goal as
Brian Flynn's men won 4-0 against Bosnia-Herzegovina in their latest 2009
U19 European Championship qualifier.
The West Ham United midfielder has made startling progress since the summer,
beginning with regular first-team action during pre-season before stepping
up from the Academy to become reserve-team captain. The Football Association
of Wales then discovered Collison had a Welsh grandfather and contacted the
19-year-old last month to ask him to follow club-mates Craig Bellamy, James
Collins and Danny Gabbidon in representing the principality.
While his 90-minute run-out and late strike to round out the scoring in
Wrexham on Saturday night was more than Collison could have hoped for - he
has an even bigger challenge in store on Wednesday evening. France, always
strong at U21 level, head to Cardiff's Ninian Park, with Flynn's men
trailing Les Bluets and Romania by five points in qualifying Group 10. Wales
have two games in hand though and have plenty of hope of securing one of 14
places on offer in next year's play-offs for the 2009 finals in Sweden.
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Youths undone in London derby - WHUFC
The Academy side - featuring Junior Stanislas after international duty -
went down at home
17.11.2007
West Ham United Under-18s 1-4 Crystal Palace Under-18s
Two second-half penalties helped consign West Ham United to a disappointing
defeat on Saturday although there were positives to be taken.
Calum Crawley, on trial from Weymouth, had opened the scoring after just
seven minutes and the home side were able to hold on to the lead until the
hour mark, despite strong pressure from the visitors. However, a penalty
conceded by Tony Brookes turned the tide in Palace's favour and within 12
minutes they had scored twice more before a second spot-kick in added time
completed the scoring.
West Ham United started off brightly and broke the deadlock when left-back
Ashley Miller, who would be sent-off for his part in the late penalty, burst
down the wing and crossed for Crawley to head in from eight yards. Palace
were a threat though and went close with a couple of good efforts, one
flashing wide and one going over the crossbar.
The hosts at Little Heath did not really have another clear-cut opportunity
until the 36th minute when Miller again broke along the left - the move
coming to an end with a shot over the bar from England U19 international
Junior Stanislas, who had earned his first call by his country in
Wednesday's 1-0 friendly defeat in Germany. Palace will feel they could have
drawn level before the break but goalkeeper Marek Stech was equal to a
strong shot from the edge of the area.
The Eagles came out strongly in the second half, hitting the bar with a
header on 55 minutes before finally equalising on 60 minutes when Brookes
upended a visiting attacker in the area. Stech actually saved the spot-kick
but Palace reacted quicker to the rebound to restore parity. Miller was then
on hand five minutes later to clear off the line but soon afterwards Palace
were in front when a strong solo run finished with a fine shot that gave
Stech no chance.
Matt Fry spurned a good opportunity to bring West Ham United back into the
contest after another good break by Miller but it was Palace who were to
find the net again almost immediately. A ball to the back post led to a
header that gave Stech no chance to save. Oliver Lee, on as substitute for
the tiring Stanislas, headed wide as time ticked away but the points were on
their way to south London - a fact confirmed in the second minute of added
time when Miller handled on the line and Palace stepped up to convert from
the spot again.
Youth-team coach Paul Hilton said: "Palace were the better team on the day
and deserved the victory. Defensively we were under a fair bit of pressure
and coped quite well until they got the first penalty but in possession of
the ball we didn't create enough openings and were beaten by the better
team. The key is how they react, they have got to learn from it."
Regarding Stanislas, Hilton said the in-form 17-year-old midfielder had
"felt a little bit fatigued" following his midweek trip with England. "It is
something he will hopefully experience more and more," said Hilton. "It was
the first time he has been away with England and dealt with the experience
of travelling to Germany, flying back and then coming back to training. It
is still a learning curve for him as a player."
West Ham United: Stech, Brooks (O'Neill 78), Spence, Payne, Miller, Harvey
(N'Gala 67), Kearns, Crawley, Stanislas (Lee 58), Hunt, Fry.
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An Evening with Billy Bonds - WHUFC
A rare opportunity to spend time with the West Ham United legend
05.11.2007
West Ham United fans have the chance to spend time with a Boleyn Ground
legend when An Evening with Billy Bonds is held on Friday 30 November.
Organised by the Boys of 86, this is a unique opportunity for supporters to
sit and chat with the legendary defender and former manager, who will talk
at length about his time at the Boleyn Ground. The event will be hosted by
Tony Cottee and Tony Gale and will take place at the Prince Regent Hotel,
Manor Road, Chigwell, Essex. Several other former West Ham United players
will be in attendance.
The evening will include an auction of rare football memorabilia and raffle
as well as a chance to be photographed with the guest of an honour who will
also sign autographs. Tickets for An Evening with Billy Bonds cost £86 per
person, which includes a three-course meal and entertainment. These can be
purchased in tables of ten or on an individual basis. All individual tickets
will be allocated a table for the evening.
There is a limited supply of tickets and they will be sold on a first-come,
first-served basis. You can reserve your place by either emailing
theboysof86@yahoo.co.uk or by telephoning 0778 3704893 .
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Ferdinand hid 'fight' friend name - BBC
Footballer Anton Ferdinand did the "honourable thing" by not naming a friend
who may have been involved in a group fight, he told a court. The West Ham
player, 22, denies assault causing actual bodily harm and affray outside an
Essex nightclub in 2006. Police want to talk to an unidentified man in CCTV
images of the fight, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard. Mr Ferdinand had refused
to tell police his friend's name out of "loyalty" but offered to name the
man in court. Mr Ferdinand said on Friday: "At the time, I was doing the
honourable thing. At the time, I did not see the CCTV footage. I wanted to
keep my friend out of it."
Prosecuting, Alex Agbamu asked why he was taking this position even if he
might be "effectively standing in the way of the police investigation". Mr
Ferdinand said: "It is loyalty to a friend." The prosecution did not take up
Mr Ferdinand's offer to write the man's name down in court. Another man,
Edward Dawkins, 28, from Beckton, east London, also denies affray and
assault causing actual bodily harm to Emile Walker outside Faces nightclub
in Ilford in October 2006.
Mr Walker, 23, previously told the court that Mr Ferdinand struck him before
he was punched and kicked to the ground by up to 10 men. He fled with a
bruised jaw and a cut on his forehead. The trial continues.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Injury-hit Wanchope ends career - BBC
Former Derby and West Ham striker Paulo Wanchope has called time on his
12-year career because of persistent injuries. The Costa Rica striker has
played for nine clubs in seven countries, most recently Chicago Fire in US.
"I always gave 100%. Sadly, my last performances were far from good enough
and I have taken the decision to retire," said Wanchope, 31. "In the last
six months I had to make a great effort to recover after games and training
with my knee problems." Wanchope, who scored 45 goals in 75 international
appearances, began his career in Costa Rica with Herediano in 1994. Three
years later signed with Derby before moving on to West Ham and Manchester
City. He also had spells with Malaga, Al-Gharrafa, FC Tokyo, Rosario Central
and finally moved to Chicago.
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West Hamerica - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 18th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Confirmation of plans to launch a West Ham United team in the USA's United
Soccer League are expected to be announced soon. According to the Daily
Mail, club representatives - thought to include youth academy chief Tony
Carr - are in Florida this weekend rubber-stamping the groundbreaking move.
Whilst a number of English clubs have arrangements with American teams, just
one - Crystal Palace - currently have a team of their own in a US league.
According to the report, the US Hammers will play in the USL's top division,
League One, which runs alongside the more glamorous - and successful - MLS;
former England captain David Beckham being their most high-profile recent
capture. The standard of football in the USL's League one is thought to be
the equivalent of England's League Two (or Division Four to those of you
above 30). According to FIFA such an arrangement would be perfectly
acceptable as the rules state only that 'owners cannot have two clubs or
teams competing in the same competition'.
USL President Francisco Marcos told the Mail: "We're looking to West Ham for
setting a trend in terms of direct ownership. This would be very different
in terms of responsibilities and commitment, like the difference between
renting a flat and owning a house. "Umbro, West Ham's kit sponsors, own 98
per cent of the USL and I own the other two per cent, so they will have all
the help they need to get set up here."
In May of this year, it was announced that United had opened an academy in
the States in order to tap into the ever-increasing number of young players
emerging from the US. And last month, Eggert Magnusson hinted that the club
may one day play a league game in the US - in a similar fashion to the
recent American Football fixture between the Miami Dolphins and the New York
Giants held at Wembley. Despite several attempts to bring football to a
wider audience the American public have traditionally shunned the game in
favour of homegrown sports such as gridiron, baseball, ice hockey and
basketball.
Yet with the fresh stream of talent emerging from the country, good showings
in recent World Cups and news interest in US takeovers of English clubs
(Liverpool, Aston Villa and Man Utd) the game is beginning to attract
unprecedented interest from the other side of the Atlantic.
Several English clubs already have interests in the USA; Crystal Palace's
US-based team (Crystal Palace USA) finished last season in fifth place in
the USL's Second Division. Arsenal have close ties the the MLS's Colorado
Rapids; the Rapids announced a 'commercial alliance agreement' with the
Gunners in February of this year. The 'Arsenal Center of Excellence' will
send their best players to London each summer to train with the North
Londoners. Meanwhile Everton have a similar deal to Arsenal's with St
Petersburg Raiders, who are now formally known as Everton Florida.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Curbishley dismisses England talk - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 18th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Alan Curbishley has distanced himself from reports linking him with the
England manager's job. Current England head coach Steve McClaren was thought
to be on the verge of receiving his marching orders until Israel did him
(and the nation) an unlikely favour by beating Russia 2-1 last night - a
result that means England can now qualify for next summer's European
Championships by taking a point from Wednesday night's fixture against
Croatia. Despite the reprieve talk of McClaren's possible successor
continues, and once again Curbishley's name has bene mentioned. But Curbs
today ruled himself out of the running by pledging his future to West Ham
United, adding that he had 'no intention' of leaving. "I'm ruling myself out
entirely," he told The Observer. "This is where I want to be and this is
where I want to be successful, so I've got no intention of leaving the club.
"When I was at Charlton I had all sorts of clauses in the contract - and
that's why I was given permission to talk in the first place. "But I didn't
seek any of those sort of things in [my current] contract." Curbishley was
one of those interviewed for the vacant England post when Sven Goran
Eriksson was dismissed last summer. Another - Aston Villa's Martin O'Neill -
has refused to rule himself out of the race to succeed McClaren.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Quashie set for loan switch? - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 18th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Nigel Quashie is on the verge of a move to Glenn Roeder's Norwich City. The
midfielder - who is fit again following a six month absence through injury -
is thought to be one of two players Roeder, who recently succeeded Peter
Grant at Carrow Road, is looking to bring in on loan. Quashie signed for the
Hammers in January of this year but is now surplus to requirements following
the summer arrivals of Scott Parker, Kieron Dyer and Freddie Ljungberg.
Norwich are currently bottom of the Football League Championship. Roeder,
who took the managerial reigns last month, has so far seen his team take
just one point from his three games in charge. Quashie - who cost United
£1.5m when he signed from Championship side West Brom - has made just eight
first team appearances for the club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Paulo calls it a day - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 17th November 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Former Hammer Paulo Wanchope has announced his retirement from professional
football. A succession of knee injuries convinced the 31-year-old striker
that enough was enough and he confirmed yesterday that he had decided to
call time on a professional career that spanned 13 years. "I always gave 100
per cent to do things as well as possible," he said. "Sadly, my last
performances were far from good enough and I have taken the decision to
retire. It was a difficult decision to take, but it has to be taken. "The
truth is that in the last six months I had to make a great effort to recover
after games and training. I gave everything and we all know about my knee
problems. "Of course, I will continue my career related to football as I
have a great passion for this sport."
Wanchope was signed by Harry Redknapp in in the summer of 1999 in a £3.5m
switch from Derby County. He went on to make 47 first team appearances for
the Hammers, scoring 15 goals in the process. The 6'4" striker was sold a
year after signing for the Irons to Manchester City. He went on to play for
Malaga (Spain), Al-Gharrafa (Qutar), Rosario Central (Argentina) and FC
Tokyo (Japan) before ending his career with MLS outfit Chigaco Fire.
Delightfully inconsistent, Wanchope, on his day, could be unplayable - yet
on another he could easily miss a sitter from three yards. He will be most
fondly remembered by Hammers fans for scoring the final goal in the
memorable 3-1 Intertoto Cup win in Metz.
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West Ham go American - SSN
Hammers launch USA development
By Graeme Bailey Last updated: 18th November 2007
West Ham have signed a development deal with United Soccer Leagues, which
could see them enter a team in the American competition. The Hammers could
look to enter a team in their own right similar to the approach Ajax use in
South Africa, where Ajax Cape Town compete. "Fifa rules only state that
owners cannot have two clubs or teams competing in the same competition, so
there's no problem here," said Francisco Marcos president of the USL. "At
that point the option to play in the USL was inserted in the agreement.
"We're looking to West Ham for setting a trend in terms of direct ownership.
"This would be very different in terms of responsibilities and commitment,
like the difference between renting a flat and owning a house."
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley is hopeful the link will be of major benefit.
"As someone who progressed through the youth ranks at West Ham United, I am
delighted that the club is taking steps to expand the development of young
players and the opportunities available to them," he said. "I look forward
to the benefits that the West Ham United USA Academy will hopefully provide,
and will take a keen interest in the growth and progress of this exciting
project."
Championship side Crystal Palace already compete in USL Division Two as they
own Baltimore-based, and originally named, Crystal Palace USA.
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O'Neill and Curbs talk England - SSN
Villa and West Ham bosses discuss Steve McClaren's job
By Alex Dunn Last updated: 18th November 2007
Martin O'Neill is refusing to be drawn on speculation linking him with the
England job, while Alan Curbishley has already ruled himself out of the
running should Steve McClaren be sacked. Israel's defeat of Russia on
Saturday has put England in pole position to book their place at Euro 2008,
aware that they only need to avoid defeat to Croatia in midweek to ensure
progression. However, things appeared much bleaker prior to Russia's loss in
Tel Aviv, with McClaren thought to be working on borrowed time as England
contemplated a summer without international football. O'Neill has
persistently been linked with the England job in the past and was
interviewed prior to McClaren's appointment. Should England indeed qualify
for Austria and Switzerland then it seems highly unlikely The FA will sack a
manager they were criticised for appointing in the first place, with O'Neill
loath to be drawn on the inevitable speculation.
There is no point in speculating on speculation," he told the Daily Star
Sunday. "Let's take it one step at a time. That's the way to run with it.
"My own view, and I'm not just saying it for the sake of it, is that
England's recent performances have been excellent."
While O'Neill stopped short of ruling himself out of contention, West Ham
boss Curbishley has done just that - confirming there are no get-out clauses
in his contract with regards taking other jobs. "When I was at Charlton I
had all sorts of clauses in the contract - and that's why I was given
permission to talk in the first place," he told the Observer. "But I didn't
seek any of those sort of things in this contract. "I'm ruling myself out
entirely. This is where I want to be and this is where I want to be
successful, so I've got no intention of leaving the club."
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Cisse staying put - SSN
Former Liverpool ace won't leave
By Patrick Haond Last updated: 17th November 2007
Djibril Cisse insists he intends to stay at Marseille. The France
international has had a frustrating campaign thus far in France with just
two goals. Cisse signed for l'OM on a permanent deal after he impressed
hugely at the end of last season during his loan - which saw him claim eight
goals in just 16 starts.
Cisse has come under increasing criticism for his displays and in recent
times he has been linked with a move back to England with West Ham and Man
City said to be keen. However, the 26-year-old says he is staying at The
Stade Velodrome. "Did I think about leaving? If I say no, I am a liar,"
Cisse told L'Equipe.
"It has come to my mind, because it is too much now. "But I have calmed down
and talked with my family. I didn't come just for six months. "I want to
stay here, to prove I will succeed. I am in my native area, and I don't want
to leave that way. "I can understand the critics as the club paid a lot for
me and considering my past performances, they can expect much more. "Even
myself I expect much more and I am not satisfied with the situation. "I have
a lot of things to prove and I am someone with pride. Last year I scored 15
goals [his Liverpool and Marseille total] and this year I say I will score
20."
Cisse remains unhappy with the press and added: "I came to tell you, leave
me alone! "Everyday on radio stations and in the newspapers people only talk
about Cisse. On a personal level it really upsets me. "Please talk about
other players, for example Mamadou Niang, who plays great at the moment."
Cisse admits there are still come concerns of the leg he broke last year.
"It is true during the last game at Liverpool, I felt some pain in the
tibia," he admitted.
"During medical examinations the doctors saw the pin is slightly moving, so
he proposed to remove it in December. "I would need to miss two matches and
resume in January, but that is out of the question. "I prefer to do it early
next season. However those, pins don't prevent me from scoring, that is very
clear. It is just a difficult period for me."
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West Ham given green light to set up club in USA - Soccernet
West Ham have been promised 'all the help they need' in setting up their own
team in the United States. The Hammers were reportedly negotiating tonight
in order to enter a side into United Soccer League One, America's equivalent
of the Championship. Arsenal and Chelsea already have ties to US clubs but
West Ham would become the first British club to compete in a foreign league
in their own right. USL president Francisco Marcos told the Mail on Sunday:
'FIFA rules only state that owners cannot have two clubs or teams competing
in the same competition, so there's no problem here. We're looking to West
Ham for setting a trend in terms of direct ownership. 'This would be very
different in terms of responsibilities and commitment, like the difference
between renting a flat and owning a house. 'But Umbro, West Ham's kit
sponsors, also own 98% of the USL and I own the other 2%, so they will have
all the help they need to get set up here.'
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The injury situation starts to improve - West Ham Online
Match Reporter - Fri Nov 16 2007
George McCartney who limped out of the thrashing of Derby early with
ligament damage to his ankle will return to training next week and should be
fit for the visit of Tottenham Sunday week. Further good news is that
Freddie Ljungberg, Dean Ashton and Scott Parker are also on target to be fit
to face Spurs. Hayden Mullins is another who should be involved after his
foot injury. Sadly the game looks to be to early for Craig Bellamy who has
had further problems with his hernia, Mark Noble who is recovering from a
hernia operation and Anton Ferdinand who is recoving from a hamstring
injury. Lee Bowyer is back from his sucessful hernia operation in Germany
earlier this week and is walking around. He would of course have been
suspended for the Spurs game after picking up his 5th yellow card in the win
over Derby.
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West Ham look to USA - Telegraph
By Richard Clare and agencies
Last Updated: 11:27pm GMT 17/11/2007
West Ham have been promised help in setting up their own team in the United
States. The London club were reportedly negotiating tonight in order to
enter a side into United Soccer League One, America's equivalent of the
Championship. Arsenal and Chelsea already have ties to US clubs but West Ham
would become the first British club to compete in a foreign league in their
own right.
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Bowyer boost for Hammers - Daily Mail
Last updated at 17:16pm on 16th November 2007
Lee Bowyer should be back in action in three weeks after a successful hernia
operation. The midfielder has returned to light training after undergoing
surgery in Germany. Bowyer is suspended for the home match against Tottenham
on November 25 but expected to be available for the trip to Chelsea six days
later.
"Lee is already walking around which is a very good sign that things went
well," said West Ham head physiotherapist George Cooper. "He will begin
light running on Monday - building up to full speed throughout the week then
will begin full training the following Monday.
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Mascherano to sign £17m deal - lep.co.uk
Javier Mascherano is close to signing a five-year £17m deal with Liverpool.
The former West Ham star will put pen to paper on the massive deal once
Liverpool's American owners give the green light. The Argentinian has won
rave reviews alongside Steve Gerrard in Liverpool's midfield and was linked
with moves to Barcelona and River Plate. Mascherano, 23, last week insisted
he would leave Anfield unless a deal was finalised within a month.
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Hammers starlet dazzles on Wales debut - Daily Mail
Last updated at 11:13am on 18th November 2007
Wales Under-21s boss Brian Flynn hailed an outstanding performance from his
youngsters, who beat Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-0 at Wrexham last night in a UEFA
championship qualifier. The performance and result set-up the Wales
youngsters for their tough clash with France at Ninian Park, Cardiff on
Tuesday. The match was a triumph for 19-year-old West Ham youngster Jack
Collison on his debut. The Hammers reserves skipper rounded off an
influential display with a fine solo goal. Flynn said: "I'm really excited
about the players coming through, as I think we have a talented bunch who
will only get better as they progress.
"We gave a very good display at Wrexham, after working hard all week in
training and this performance has shown that with the quality of our display
and finishing. The boys are now really relishing Tuesday night's clash with
the French in Cardiff."
Three goals in the second-half at the Racecourse ground finished off Bosnia,
and the goal threat of Sam Vokes and Ched Evans was the key. Wales took the
lead on 29 minutes. A Joe Jacobson corner from the right was only partially
cleared and Mike Williams' follow up shot from outside the box that took a
wicked deflection off midfielder Shaun MacDonald before flashing home. Wales
scored a second on 54 minutes, when Vokes headed home from close range after
good work by Swansea City's Joe Allen on the right. The game was put beyond
the Bosnians on 72 minutes when a 50-yard run down the left by Vokes set up
Evans, with the Manchester City front man curling his shot home. The evening
was capped with a superb solo goal from Collison, when he danced through
three challenges inside the area before firing home.
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Hammers set to snap up £5 million English star !!! - footballblog
According to the Sunday Mirror, West Ham are closing in on the signing of
Derby County star Giles Barnes. The Hammers were close to signing the
19-year old in the summer but now that Derby are almost certain to go down
this season, Derby are looking to cash in on the attacking midfielder in
January before he loses value.
It is likely that West Ham will have to cough up about £5 million for
Barnes. Barnes had a terrific campaign last season, helping Derby gain
promotion to the Premier League, but this season due to injury he hasn't
played as many games as he or Derby would of liked. Barnes has made 65
appearances for the club scoring 9 goals in those games.
I think this would be a good signing for the Hammers because Barnes clearly
has a big future ahead of him. I think Derby are right to look at letting
Barnes leave because if they are to get relegated, which lets face it will
probably happen, his value is bound to decrease. Barnes is also said to be
keen on the move so I expect a deal to go through in january.
Posted by Cathal Breathnach at 11:05 AM
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Neill: let's get it right - news.com.au
November 19, 2007 12:00am
SOCCEROOS captain Lucas Neill has revealed the team's concern at the
coaching fiasco after leading his side to a 1-0 win over Nigeria. Dick
Advocaat was supposed to meet his players at the friendly match. "All we
want to do is get someone in who can stamp their own style on Australia now
so we know what is right and what is wrong," he said. "Once we know the
set-up and the style and structure then we can apply ourselves to the best
of our ability. "But, at the moment, everything is hanging in the air and
you don't know whether you are doing the right thing or the wrong thing."
Neill said it was better to wait until Football Australia found someone who
really wanted to take Australia into the next World Cup than throwing cash
"at someone who just wants money". "I'm not saying that's Dick Advocaat but
we keep going for the better managers in the world which is good -- you want
to play for the biggest and the best. "Until we land the right guy there's
no point getting someone in desperation." Neill said the politics of the
appointment would not dog his side and it would continue to play for pride.
"Twenty million others would rather be doing what (we) are doing. "We want
to be professional and show the world it wasn't a fluke in the world cup. We
are a good team and want to keep getting better." The goal hero of
yesterday's friendly, David Carney, said the players were trying to put the
absence of a full-time coach out of their minds. "Everyone knows each other
and we showed that today," he said. "The sooner it gets sorted the better,
really."
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So Far So Good For West Ham Injured - west ham fans.org
Submitted by Neville Nixon on 18 November, 2007 - 18:36.
Although the players are hardly flying off the treatment table, there at
last seems more light at the end of the tunnel for those on Hammers
hideously elongated injury list. The two week break has meant that some of
West Ham United's own contingent of 'crocked' international players have a
realistic chance of being eligible for next Sunday's live on Sky clash
against Tottenham. Sweden captain Freddie Ljungberg managed to get through
90 minutes unscathed against Spain, George McCartney is recovering well from
his ankle injury, Craig Bellamy is recovering from his groin injury and Dean
Ashton is fully fit, as is Mark Noble. Lee Bowyer is suspended and
recovering from his groin operation but Hayden Mullins is responding to
treatment and should be available for selection. Scott Parker, the forgotten
man in midfield, has finally recovered from his knee injury but will be so
far off the pace that a return straight into a London derby would probably
be rushing things a bit. Julien Faubert has started light work on his
training as he begins to re-habilitate following the freak snapping of his
achilles, the player has his sights set on a return to full training before
the New year. Much as the player would like, Kieron Dyer's options for
playing again this season do look extremely limited. Elsewhere Lucas Neill
played a full game for the Socceroos, although thankfully the fixture did
not see him leaving these shores for another hop around the world this time!
JJ Spector, Henri Camara, Nobby Solano and John Paintsil also featured for
their respective countries without picking up injuries. Anton Ferdinand's
current injury has left him the time he needs to sort out his legal plight,
his back line colleague James Collins was fit enough to play for Wales as
was Danny Gabbidon. Alan Curbishley will have a huge selection problem to
face, with so many players available there are bound to be those who will be
unhappy about not featuring in his plans, but then again, being at West Ham
they probably won't have to wait very long for an opportunity to play will
they? - Ed
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Hammers Hit Twelve - fgmag.com
18/11/2007
Sunday November 18th
FA TESCO PREMIER LEAGUE
SOUTHERN DIVISION
West Ham United 12-0 Reading Royals
West Ham took advantage of struggling Reading Royals, netting a dozen goals
without reply to go seventh in the table. Sam Pittuck and Katy Ling both
netted hat-tricks. the former first to find the net on 16 minutes. Tracey
Duxbury and Clare Rogers added one each, with Pittuck getting her second on
35 minutes, Ling and Natalie Grafton taking the lead to 6-0 at the interval.
Dani Hoy got number seven on the hour, Pittuck and Ling completing their
trebles before Duxbury netted her second and Charlotte Benson conceded an
own-goal.
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West Ham's Collison outstanding on Wales U21 debut
tribalfooball.com - November 18, 2007
West Ham youngster Jack Collison enjoyed an outstanding debut for Wales U21
in their 4-0 defeat of Bosnia-Herzegovina. The match was a triumph for
19-year-old Collison on his debut. The Hammers reserves skipper rounded off
an influential display with a fine solo goal. Coach Bryan Flynn said: "I'm
really excited about the players coming through, as I think we have a
talented bunch who will only get better as they progress. "We gave a very
good display at Wrexham, after working hard all week in training and this
performance has shown that with the quality of our display and finishing.
"The boys are now really relishing Tuesday night's clash with the French in
Cardiff."
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West Ham plan bid for Liverpool prospect Hobbs
tribalfooball.com - November 18, 2007
West Ham United are interested in Liverpool defender Jack Hobbs. The People
says Hammers spies watched the Anfield prospect in the reserves last week
and will swoop if Rafa Benitez keeps overlooking him. Hobbs has hardly
figured since signing from Lincoln and could slip further down the pecking
order if a new defender arrives in January.
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West Ham eyeing Juventus midfielder Tiago
tribalfooball.com - November 18, 2007
West Ham United are considering a New Year bid to bring Portugal's Tiago
back to England. Former Chelsea midfielder Tiago is out of favour at
Juventus.
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Ljungberg ready for West Ham comeback
tribalfooball.com - November 17, 2007
Freddie Ljungberg says he'll be fit for West Ham's next game against London
rivals Tottenham. "I am happy to be back to full strength with my body," he
told whufc.com. "I feel strong and have had lots of time to recover. The
last week at West Ham felt good, and I had great support from our rehab
staff. "I am looking forward to coming back, after the international games,
to West Ham. "Our next game is a local derby against Spurs and important to
both clubs in a number of ways."
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