Forward flair is on the agenda for West Ham United as Alan Curbishley hopes
to build on the success so far
25.02.2008
Alan Curbishley is looking for his team to add attacking guile to their
"fantastic" defensive strength to help West Ham United do even better in the
final 12 games of the season.
As was shown yet again in Saturday's 1-0 win at Fulham, the rearguard held
firm and provided the platform for victory that maintained the charge for
Europe. With Julien Faubert and match-winner Nolberto Solano getting vital
minutes and the likes of Bobby Zamora and Scott Parker getting closer to
first-team football, there is hope for even more forward momentum in future.
"We have got the potential," said the manager. "We have got a strong base at
the moment and I am hoping the attacking stuff will come through. It is not
for the want of trying - in training that is all we do." Curbishley added
that "no one is stopping them playing expansive football" and that was
illustrated by the names who have been giving their all to keep the club in
sight of the leading teams.
"We have got players like [Freddie] Ljungberg, [Luis] Boa Morte, [Mark]
Noble - you can't tell me they are defensive and we have [Carlton] Cole as
well. I have got two full-backs who like to get forward. It is just the way
it is at the moment. People take for granted what they have done so far. I
always hear lots of things about teams needing a goalscorer, which is fine,
but you have got to stop letting them in as well.
"We have managed to do that because our defensive record is fantastic. We
are just outside the top four for our defensive record. We need a little bit
more. We have got players that can give us that. Some of them are injured
and some of the players that are playing now can give us that. We will keep
working at it."
As has been demonstrated in recent weeks, Curbishley said all top-flight
sides were capable of giving anyone a game. "The opposition have got a bit
to do with it. No game in the Premier League is easy. You may think that
just by looking at the table but you find teams down the bottom give
everyone a game. There are no gimmies in the Premier League and you have to
go and earn the three points or whatever you are going to take. You have got
to give the opposition a little bit of credit."
Yet again Curbishley was able to cope with a changing squad with Lee Bowyer
and Matthew Etherington missing out on training in the week and Faubert also
having to tread carefully. The emphasis though was rightly on those who were
available and who, from Robert Green onwards, pulled together to get the
result at Craven Cottage. He said: "I can't praise them enough. We take it
for granted a little bit what they have done when you see other teams in a
lot of trouble.
"Week in, week out, they have dug in and done fantastically well. The back
five is the only constant. It is probably what has got us to where we are
that we look very strong defensively. When some teams do manage to break us
down, one of them pulls us out of it. You can't forget that Greeny had a
one-on-one with Jimmy Bullard and came and did it. It could have been a
totally different result if that had gone in."
With victory secured, Curbishley will focus his players this week on the
challenge of facing Chelsea, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur in the space of
eight days. "We know we have got a tough week coming up," he said. "We are
going to be put to the test but so far this season we have raised our game
against the big four so we will see what happens."
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Academy aces in pole position - WHUFC
Tony Carr could not hide his satisfaction after West Ham United Under-18s
moved top of the league
25.02.2008
Tony Carr was a happy man after his Under-18 side moved two points clear at
the top of Group A of the Premier Academy League at the weekend.
Goals from Tom Harvey and Freddie Sears helped West Ham United to win 2-0 at
Crystal Palace as previous league leaders Southampton were losing 3-0 at
Ipswich Town FC. The Hammers now have 42 points from 23 games, while
Southampton have 40 from the same number of fixtures. Arsenal in third place
are still most people's favourites for the title although they are six
points adrift of top spot with four games in hand.
Reflecting on Saturday's fifth victory in six unbeaten games and a third
clean sheet in a row on the road, Carr said: "We would like to finish the
season on a high and keep this run going to the end. Certainly defensively
we are looking quite strong. We are playing as a team unit at the moment.
There is a lot of togetherness in the squad. We are getting the results and
breeding confidence at the same time."
Once again, Sears found the net with his 21st of the season at U18 level
from just 17 matches. His 85th-minute goal was impressive for the way he
evaded the Palace defence before rounding the keeper to score and even more
remarkable because he had only just come on as a late replacement. Carr
said: "He is the guy you want in those positions because he can finish."
The 18-year-old striker was only on the bench because of his reserve-team
run-out last Wednesday and potential inclusion for Kevin Keen's second
string at Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night. "He has had a terrific season
and caught the eye," Carr added. "All the players at this level must keep
grounded and he is that sort of player. He is West Ham through and through
and just wants to do well for himself and the club."
Carr was pleased with his whole team, but also had special mention for Adam
Street in goal who played despite feeling unwell and also for Tony Brookes
who showed versatility to play at centre-back instead of his usual full-back
berth as cover for the rested Bondz N'Gala. Further forward, Josh Payne
showed he can perform in midfield as well as the back while the side coped
well with a formation that had Ben Hunt as the lone striker before Sears'
late arrival.
"It is about juggling the team a little bit and making sure we don't push
certain individuals and ask too much of them," said Carr. "We juggled the
team around and it is nice we still got the result. It was a good
opportunity." To further the positive news, Jack Jeffery got 20 minutes as
substitute in a 2-0 win for Conference high-fliers Cambridge United on
Saturday after starting his month's loan. Carr said such experience could
only help the young striker as it did N'Gala earlier in the campaign.
"Bondz going to Weymouth for a short period helped him to grow up and did
him the world of good. They are either going to sink or swim these young
lads. It is good they are exposed to the real world of men's football. The
game matters and it is really important at that level for these teams. The
boys have to grow up quickly. We always try and give them the opportunity
for them to go on loan.
"The circumstances have to be right and it depends what our needs are. We
can't let players go on loan and leave ourselves short. It depends where we
are at in terms of players but if we have the opportunity we always will."
Finally, Carr added that goalkeeper Marek Stech was coming along on his
recovery from an ankle injury although with the season drawing to a close he
may not figure again this campaign.
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Sears rampant for reserves - WHUFC
Freddie Sears scored twice for the reserves and made the other for Dean
Ashton in a fourth straight victory
25.02.2008
Tottenham Hotspur reserves 1-3 West Ham United reserves
Freddie Sears maintained his scoring streak to earn West Ham United a
hard-fought victory against a youthful Tottenham Hotspur side on Monday
night.
The 18-year-old forward, who this season now has three goals at this level
from six appearances along with 21 in 17 games for the Under-18s, struck on
the stroke of half-time to cancel out Troy Archibald-Henville's opener for
Tottenham. He wrapped up the win with a superb run and shot 17 minutes from
time. In between, he found time to set up Dean Ashton for a close-range
finish.
Sears had begun the contest on the right wing but moved into attack when
Bobby Zamora made way on half-time. It was an experienced side throughout
with Jimmy Walker in goal behind Jonathan Spector and John Pantsil. The
victory moves West Ham United three points clear of third-placed Reading in
the southern section of the Barclays Premier Reserve League and just two
points behind leaders Aston Villa - although both have two games in hand
after a 1-1 draw on the same evening.
At a chilly Brisbane Road, Tottenham were the brighter of the two sides in a
first half which was most noticeable for a number of challenges that
underlined how these derby matches are taken seriously at any level. Walker,
who had Ludek Miklosko as his replacement on the bench after the late
withdrawal of Adam Street, and David Button in the Spurs goal were largely
spectators in the opening stages as a number of moves broke down.
After a couple of fine tackles by young left-back Ashley Miller to stop the
visitors in their tracks, West Ham United's first real opportunity came in
the 17th minute. Pantsil picked out Ashton in a good central position. It
seemed the No9 would open the scoring but he was just unable to make a clean
connection and his glancing header flew wide.
Six minutes later, Zamora did well to fashion an opening but the ball would
not sit kindly and his effort looped over the bar. A minute later, Jack
Collison had the chance to head for goal from the middle of the penalty area
after fine work by Ashton but again Button watched it fly safely behind.
Tottenham picked up after that and looked the most likely with Danny Rose
and Simon Dawkins looking particularly menacing.
Spurs finally broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Troy
Archibald-Henville glanced in a Rose free-kick. Walker had no chance with
that but did well soon after the restart to save at point-blank range from
David Hutton. Tomkins then had to be alert to stop another potential
Tottenham attack and it seemed if any side was going to strike before
half-time it would be the hosts.
However, good play by Ashton on the right saw him pick out Kyel Reid on the
edge of the area. His shot was miscued into the path of Sears, who turned
quickly and flashed a shot beyond Button. It was almost the last action of
the half and proved pivotal as Keen's side were always in command after the
break. Zavon Hines came on to replace Zamora which in turn allowed Sears to
link up through the middle with Ashton.
Within ten minutes, both forwards had made space for a couple of good
efforts on goal and looked an effective partnership. With Tottenham making a
couple of changes on the hour, the contest was beginning to open up and a
second West Ham United goal seemed on the cards. It duly came in the 68th
minute as Hines slipped Sears away and he raced through to the byline. From
there, he looked up and picked out Ashton who had no trouble converting from
close range.
Sears was not finished. Five minutes later, he struck a sensational second
to put his side two goals clear. Ashton set him away with a neat pass and
the young forward did the rest, racing beyond three defenders before
confronting Button in the Spurs goal. Before the keeper could react, Sears
fired into the far corner and victory was assured.
Both teams had half-chances in the closing stages but West Ham United's
greater experience allowed them to close out the contest. Spurs, who had
impressed in the first half, were restricted to half-chances - most notably
through a Ryan Mason free-kick - while Reid, Ashton and Collison will all
feel they could have added to the visitors' tally.
Tottenham Hotspur: David Button, Cian Hughton, Joseph Martin, Jake
Livermore, Troy Archibald-Henville, Dorian Dervite, (Ryan Mason 76), Kyle
Fraser-Allen (Dean Parrett 60), Danny Rose, Jonathan Obika, Simon Dawkins,
David Hutton (Takura Mtandari 60)
Subs: Oscar Jansson, Daniel Hutchins
West Ham United: Jimmy Walker, John Pantsil, James Tomkins (Jordan Spence
70), Ashley Miller (Lorcan Fitzgerald 78), Jonathan Spector, Freddie Sears,
Tony Stokes, Jack Collison, Kyel Reid, Dean Ashton, Bobby Zamora (Zavon
Hines 46)
Subs: Ludek Miklosko, Junior Stanislas
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Reserves 3-1 Tottenham Hotspur FT - WHUFC
Freddie Sears scored twice and made the other for Dean Ashton as the
reserves fought back to win
25.02.2008
Barclays Premier Reserve League - South
Brisbane Road, Leyton Orient
Kick-off: 7pm
Referee: John Hopkins
Final score - 1-3
90min - Stokes flashes a shot wide from the edge of the area.
89min - No. Tottenham get the ball away and nearly get a break on goal
before the offside flag is raised.
89min - Sears wins a corner. Can he get his hat-trick?
87min - Ashton shows good vision to leave a crossfield ball for Collison to
run on to. The captain's shot is blocked well, though.
86min - Ashton tries an acrobatic finish from Reid's cross. He couldn't
quite connect but still forced Button to save. Spurs counter quickly and
Spence gives away a free-kick on the edge of the area. Mtandari was just
about to shoot before being brought down. The free-kick is wasted by Mason
and Walker watches it sail over.
83min - Hines tries one touch too many in a good position but is crowded
out. There could be more goals in this. Reid tries to bend a free-kick round
the wall but it never troubles the goal.
81min - West Ham United's greater experience has told in this second half
although Tottenham have competed well and will feel hard done-by to be
trailing by two goals.
78min - Lorcan Fitgzgerald is coming on for Miller. The young full-back can
be pleased with his contribution.
76min - Ryan Mason is coming on for Dervite.
75min - Good header by Spence clears the danger after a Parrett's dangerous
cross. Stokes then does well to get things going in attack. Sears wants his
hat-trick.
73min - GOAL! Sensational goal from Sears. Ashton's quick thinking set the
youngster away. With three defenders around him, he outpaced them all to
bear down on Button's goal. Without hesitation, the prolific striker slotted
into the corner of the net with ease.
70min - Tomkins is coming off to be replaced by Jordan Spence. Stokes gets a
chance to shoot from distance after good work by Collison and Ashton.
68min - Martin is booked for a late challenge on Hines that has left the
substitute in some discomfort.
68min - GOAL! Ashton tucks in from close range. Outstanding play from Hines
sets Sears away. He advances to the byline before slipping the ball across
goal for his strike partner to score.
65min - Pantsil is trying to get something going on the right. Tottenham are
able to stop him advancing and break quickly. That too comes to an abrupt
end and the visitors go again. The game is becoming stretched.
63min - Archibald-Henville is down for treatment after an aerial collision
with Ashton.
60min - Double change for Tottenham. Takura Mtandari is on for Hutton and
Dean Parrett is replacing Fraser-Allen.
58min - Dawkins wins a corner off Spector. Stokes clears with a strong
header. The ball comes back in but Tomkins gets it away before a Tottenham
handball is spotted.
57min - Now Spector is booked after a foul in a similar place at the other
end. Tottenham scored from this kind of position. This time though, Tomkins
gets Hutton's set-piece away.
56min - Quick feet from Sears forces a foul from Spurs captain
Archibald-Henville. He is booked for that and West Ham United get a
free-kick in a dangerous position. Tomkins takes and Ashton heads into
Button's hands.
54min - Miller nearly slips Sears in. Spurs are worried about the striker as
he looks likely to get in behind with every attack.
52min - Sears wins a free-kick after more bright play. He has looked very
lively this half. The set-piece comes to nothing and Spector commits a foul
as Spurs look to counter.
50min - Collison does well to help Miller out after a good Spurs attack. The
play switches to Reid on the right wing. He tricks his way into the area
before teeing up Sears. He misses his kick but the ball comes through to
Ashton, who shoots straight at Button.
49min - Great play by Sears. A quick counterattack from Ashton's clearing
header saw Reid set Sears away. The No7 then ran at the Spurs defence before
seeing his shot blocked. Seconds later, he picked out Ashton for a header.
48min - A few fouls but nothing much else has happened so far. Hines is the
latest penalised for a foul on Rose.
46min - A change for West Ham United, Zavon Hines is on for Zamora. It looks
like Sears will go through the middle alongside Ashton with Hines out wide.
HALF-TIME - 1-1
45min - GOAL! Freddie Sears does it again. Great play by Ashton on the right
saw him pick out Reid on the edge of the area. His shot was miscued but it
fell to Sears with his back to goal. He turned in an instant and then
flashed it past Button. One shot, one goal from the youngster.
44min - Half-time is fast approaching and Keen will hope for better in the
second half. The visitors have not really been able to test Button despite
some bright moments of build-up play. Zamora appears to have taken a knock
to his right leg but is able to continue.
41min - Reid rounds Hughton on the left before having a shot. His effort
does not trouble Button.
39min - Tomkins does well to stop another Tottenham counterattack. Ashton
then tries to get Zamora away quickly but the offside flag is raised.
37min - Reid tries to get something going on the left before feeding Miller.
His cross is off target though and the move breaks down.
36min - It was nearly two but for a smart stop from Walker from David
Hutton.
34min - GOAL! - Troy Archibald-Henville is able to head in from a fierce
Danny Rose free-kick from the right. Walker had no chance. The Spurs No5 was
well-placed in the centre of goal.
33min - Another corner for Tottenham after good work by Fraser-Allen. Rose
takes it from the right wing but Collison clears at the near post.
30min - Ashton tries to pick out Zamora on the back post after getting away
from the Spurs defence. Button comes and claims though with relative ease.
29min - Pantsil does well to get forward from the right. He tricks his way
past Martin before cutting in from the byline. His cross is low and firm but
the referee blows his whistle after his assistant spotted the ball had run
out of play.
28min - Superb again from Tomkins to read the danger. Not once but twice in
the space of ten seconds. He is having a good game as usual.
26min - Well played Tomkins. After a good West Ham United attacking move
broke down, Tottenham looked for the quick counterattack but the young
England Under-19 international was alive to it and intercepted.
25min - Reid slips the ball into Ashton. He lets fly from 25 yards but the
ball misses to the right of goal.
24min - Good work by Ashton pulling out to the left finishes with him
picking out Collison for a header in the centre of goal. The captain was
unable to connect well though and again Tottenham keeper David Button
watches it sail behind.
23min - Zamora's first sight of goal. Stokes' cross was played back in by
Reid and it found the fit-again forward. He was closed down by Hughton but
managed to lift it over his head but could not direct the resulting shot on
target.
22min - Sears gets a chance to break on the right but, just as he is about
to cross, the ball hits a divot and flies out of play.
20min - Spurs look for a long ball over the top to Dawkins but Walker comes
out to claim. David Hutton then goes forward on the left but his shot is
cleared by Miller. The young left-back is having a good game and a strong
tackle stops Fraser-Allen - although the hosts get a corner. Nothing comes
of it, with a foul on Spector.
18min - Now the referee is talking to Rose and Tony Stokes after another
stoppage.
17min - Reid does brilliantly to bring the ball out of defence on the left.
The play is switched to the right and Pantsil plays in a superb cross
towards Ashton. The No9 is just unable to get his head fully on the ball
though and it sails behind for a goal-kick.
16min - Spurs are fully committed for this contest. Miller is upended again
- this time by Fraser-Allen and he becomes the first player to be cautioned.
15min - We are under way again after Miller received treatment. He is under
pressure again, this time by Kyle Fraser-Allen but the No7's cross is
wayward.
13min - An outstanding challenge by Miller on Dervite denies Spurs a
shooting chance after good approach play. The youngster slid in superbly to
win the ball but appears to have taken a knock.
12min - Sears has not really seen the ball yet out on the right wing. The
18-year-old is in good form of late and was key to last weeks' 2-0 reserve
win against Fulham.
10min - Jake Livermore is penalised for a late challenge on Reid. The game
is a bit stop-start at the moment.
8min - Excellent build-up play from Tottenham before Collison tidies up and
John Pantsil nearly gets Ashton in behind the Spurs defence with a ball over
the top. Good defending by Dorian Dervite. Spurs then quickly counter and
the move finishes with Dawkins flashing a long-range effort wide.
7min - Ashton, Zamora and then Collison link up well to get something going
on the left. The move breaks down though with the ball running out of play
on the left wing.
5min - A good defensive header from Tomkins gets the ball back to Walker as
Rose looked to pick out Simon Dawkins. Up the other end, Miller is fouled
deep in the Spurs half.
4min - James Tomkins does well to bring the ball under control. He is fouled
in the process and West Ham United get the chance to attack. Already Reid is
looking lively.
3min - Danny Rose gets a chance to head at goal after a quick break down the
right from Cian Hughton. The No8 cannot keep his effort on target though and
Jimmy Walker watches it sail over.
2min - Ashton forces a throw-in deep in Tottenham territory. From it Kyel
Reid is able to win a corner. Some good early pressure from the visitors
although the corner comes to nothing.
1min - Spurs get us under way. Spector is playing at centre-back with Miller
at left-back.
KICK-OFF
6.55pm - Jack Collison is in the centre-circle and we will be under way
soon. Ashton is wearing No9 and Zamora has No10 for those interested.
6.49pm - We have a couple of changes to the West Ham United team. Ashley
Miller replaces Bondz N'Gala while Ludek Miklosko replaces substitute
goalkeeper Adam Street.
6.46pm - The reserves are third in the ten-team division. They are level on
22 points with Reading and four points adrift of leaders Aston Villa,
although both rivals have two games in hand. Reading and Villa meet tonight
at Villa Park.
6.41pm - Clive Allen is in charge of Tottenham's reserves and is out there
with his team as they fire in shots on goal.
6.37pm - On a clear but chilly evening in east London, both teams are
warming up on the pitch. Ashton was the first one out there though, going
through his pre-match routine a good five minutes before anyone else
arrived. Goalkeeping coach Ludek Miklosko is putting Jimmy Walker through
his paces while the rest of the squad limber up with the help of
conditioning coach Alex Dyer.
6.15pm - Welcome to the home of Leyton Orient for live text coverage of the
reserves' away game against Tottenham Hotspur. Kevin Keen's men are in good
form with three consecutive wins and look to have plenty of firepower this
evening. Dean Ashton partners Bobby Zamora in attack with Freddie Sears and
Kyel Reid set to support from the flanks. At the back, John Pantsil and
Jonathan Spector will give plenty of experience in the full-back positions.
Tottenham Hotspur: David Button, Cian Hughton, Joseph Martin, Jake
Livermore, Troy Archibald-Henville, Dorian Dervite, (Ryan Mason 76), Kyle
Fraser-Allen (Dean Parrett 60), Danny Rose, Jonathan Obika, Simon Dawkins,
David Hutton (Takura Mtandari 60)
Subs: Oscar Jansson, Daniel Hutchins,
West Ham United: Jimmy Walker, John Pantsil, James Tomkins (Jordan Spence
70), Ashley Miller (Lorcan Fitzgerald 78), Jonathan Spector, Freddie Sears,
Tony Stokes, Jack Collison, Kyel Reid, Dean Ashton, Bobby Zamora (Zavon
Hines 46)
Subs: Ludek Miklosko, Junior Stanislas,
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Nani state? - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 26th February 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have offered Brescia general manager Gianluca Nani the
vacant Technical Director position, according to reports. The Times reports
this morning that the relatively unknown Nani is set to take the job in the
summer. His primary role will be to seek foreign talent of a high enough
standard to succeed in the Premier League. The new set up will allow Alan
Curbishley - who is thought to have been involved in the interviewing
process - to concentrate on matters involving the first team, whilst Tony
Carr will remain in charge of youth development. A number of high-profile
footballing figures had been linked with the role in recent months including
former Brazilian international Leonardo and Italian legends Roberto Mancini
and Giovanni Trapattoni. Mancini rejected the role to join Fabio Capello's
England set-up whilst 68-year-old Trapattoni opted instead to become the new
Irish manager.
Nani was manager of Brescia when the club acheived their highest-ever league
position of seventh in Serie A back in 2004.
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Reserves earn their Spurs - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 25th February 2008
By: Staff Writer
An experienced West Ham United reserve side outclassed Tottenham at Orient's
Brisbane Road ground tonight. Goals from Dean Ashton and Fred Sears (2)
helped the Hammers to a 3-1 Premier Reserve League South win against a
rookie Spurs side featuring just one regular first team player. Although the
Hammers romped home in the end it was Tottenham that took a 34th minute lead
through Danny Rose. But teenage striker Sears - who scored for the under
18s on Saturday despite playing just 15 minutes - was on hand to equalise
for the Hammers in the final minute of the first half. West Ham took the
lead on 69 minutes through Dean Ashton, who had an easy finish after being
set up by strike partner Sears - possibly a sign of things to come. Four
minutes later the youngster sealed victory for the Hammers with a superb
individual effort, beating three players before firing home his second of
the night. Ashton, who was thrown into the side at late notice in order to
help him on his way back to full fitness lasted the full 90 minutes, whilst
Bobby Zamora was given just the first half - a possible indication that he
may be back in the first team reckoning for this weekend's clash with
Chelsea. Hammers fans present were also treated to the rare sight of
46-year-old Ludo Miklosko on the bench; the club's goalkeeping coach being a
last minute replacement for Adam Street. The win means West Ham are now just
two points behind league leaders Aston Villa, who came from behind to snatch
a draw against Reading at Villa Park tonight.
Premier Reserve League South
How they stand (top)
1. Aston Villa P12 Pts27 GD+23
2. West Ham Utd P14 Pts25 GD+14
3. Reading P12 Pts23 GD+16
Match Facts
West Ham United: Walker, Paintsil, Tomkins (Spence 70), Miller (Fitzgerald
78), Spector, Stokes, Collison, Reid, Sears, Ashton, Zamora (Hines 46)
Subs not used: Miklosko, Stanislas
Goals: Sears (44, 73), Ashton (69).
Tottenham: Button, Hughton, Martin, Livermore, Archibald-Henville, Dervite,
(Mason 76), Fraser-Allen (Parrett 60), Rose, Obika, Dawkins, Hutton
(Mtandari 60).
Subs not used: Jansson, Hutchins.
Goals: Rose (34).
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Don't take us for granted - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 25th February 2008
By: Staff Writer
Alan Curbishley has hit back after he was accused of being too negative by
sections of the travelling support at Fulham on Saturday. The United boss
was subjected to chants of 'too f*cking negative' and 'attack, attack,
attack' by West Ham supporters at Craven Cottage shortly before Nobby Solano
scored the winning goal. A clearly disappointed Curbishley, speaking in the
post match press conference refused to criticise the supporters directly but
insisted that the team should be given greater credit given the numerous
injury problems - and subsequent selection issues - witnessed this season.
"When you consider the problems this club has had this season and that every
week something different happens with the injuries they've done fantastic,
the players," he said. "They've got themselves to where they are with 12
games to go. We want to be expansive like everybody else but the players
that have been playing have dug in for West Ham all season. "I've asked
them to play out of position, give it their lot every week and they've done
fantastic so great credit goes to them. So perhaps they shouldn't be taken
for granted."
Despite the dissatisfaction registered by the fans on Saturday, Curbishley
insists that he does have a squad capable of achieving greater things,
whilst entertaining along the way. "We've got a strong base and I am hoping
the attacking stuff will come through," he added. "It is not for the want of
trying - in training that is all we do. It is just the way it is at the
moment. "I hear lots of things about teams needing a goalscorer, which is
fine, but you have got to stop letting them in as well. We have managed to
do that because our defensive record is fantastic. "We need a little bit
more. We have got players that can give us that. Some of them are injured
and some of the players that are playing now can give us that. We will keep
working at it."
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Curbishley: we were lucky - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 24th February 2008
By: Staff Writer
Alan Curbishley has confessed that his side were slightly fortunate to take
all three points against Fulham. The Hammers boss, talking after the game
admitted that the Hammers failed to create as much as he would have liked -
but insisted that he was happy with the overall performance. "We got a
little bit of luck near the end," he said. "We've been unlucky in recent
weeks - the penalty against Birmingham was a bit soft - and it balanced for
us today.
"The players have got to take fantastic credit for what they've done this
season. They've dug in every week. We've had tremendous problems, people
pulling out, people getting fit in the first team - like we had today.
"They've done fantastic, and I'm sure that everyone at West Ham - at least I
do - appreciate everything they've done."
In response to claims of negativaty - as expressed by the travelling fans
shortly before Nobby Solano's winning goal - he added: "We need to be a bit
more expansive. We need to create a few more chances, and take them. But for
the most part, I'm delighted with what they're doing."
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Super Freddie on target for West Ham reserves
By Guardian-series
Spurs 1 West Ham 3
(Barclays Premier Reserve League - South)
FREDDIE Sears scored twice and made the other for Dean Ashton as West Ham
reserves came from behind to see off a resilient Spurs reserve side tonight.
The prolific young striker (pictured) capped an all round display to set a
strong Hammers team - including Dean Ashton, Bobby Zamora, John Pantsil and
Jonathan Spector - on their way to a fourth successive victory. Spurs took
the lead in the 34th minute at Leyton Orient FC's Brisbane Road, when
defender Troy Archibald-Henville headed home from a Danny Rose free kick.
But Sears brought the scores level on the stroke of half time with a quick
turn and shot that found the net. Ashton, in the team to find some match
sharpness, put Hammers in front on 68 minutes, the forward turning in a
Sears cross from close range. And Sears wrapped it up five minutes later
with his second. The 18-year-old raced onto Ashton's neat through ball
before slotting neatly into the corner.
West Ham: Walker, Pantsil, Tomkins (Spence 70), Miller (Fitzgerald 78),
Spector, Sears, Stokes, Collison, Reid, Ashton, Zamora (Hines 46). Unused
subs: Miklosko, Stanislas.
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Spurs reserves lose out to rivals West Ham
By Guardian-series
Spurs 1 West Ham 3
(Barclays Premier Reserve League - South)
A FINE first half performance came to nothing for Tottenham reserves as they
were beaten by a strong West Ham reserves outfit at Brisbane Road tonight.
Spurs were looking to end a four-game losing streak and were on course when
skipper Troy Archibald-Henville headed in a Danny Rose free kick to give his
side a 34th minute lead. But the Hammers - who had experienced first team
strikers Dean Ashton and Bobby Zamora in their starting line up - fought
back and equalised when youngster Freddie Sears turned quickly on a loose
ball and fired home. The visitors upped the pressure in the second half and
took the lead on 69 minutes when Ashton turned in a Sears cross from close
range. And it was Sears who sealed a fourth successive victory for his side
late on with a cooly-taken effort. Next up for Spurs reserves is league
leaders Aston Villa next Monday.
Spurs: Button, Hughton, Archibald-Henville, Dervite (Mason 77), Martin,
Fraser-Allen (Parrett 62), Livermore, Rose, D Hutton (Mtandari 62), Obika,
Dawkins. Unused subs: Jansson, Hutchins.
10:11pm Monday 25th February 2008
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Ambitious West Ham United aim to join continental drift - The Times
Gary Jacob
There was a time when West Ham United would recruit players only from within
walking distance of Upton Park, but they will scour farther afield after
offering Gianluca Nani the position of technical director.
The Brescia general manager is likely to accept the new role, which will
begin in the summer. The Italian's duties would include finding players and
conducting transfers.
West Ham's shift to a continental structure is a bold break from tradition
for a club that became known as "The Academy" long before the word had its
meaning today. They nurtured Bobby Moore, Geoff Hurst and Martin Peters to
lead England to the 1966 World Cup triumph and more recently graduated the
likes of Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole and Jermain
Defoe. James Tompkins, the next talent on the conveyor belt, has been
earmarked as a player who could follow in Ferdinand's footsteps at the heart
of the England defence.
Tony Carr, the club's director of youth development, will continue looking
for young local players, leaving Nani to concentrate on discovering foreign
talent and experienced players for the first team.
Nani has a good depth of knowledge of players in South America, has been
seen scouting at reserve matches in many countries and is proud of
persuading Adam Vass, the Hungary midfield player, to leave Stoke City for
Brescia, the Serie B club. He also signed Marek Hamsik for about £300,000
from Slovan Bratislava and sold the midfield player to Napoli for a £3.5
million profit three years later.
Nani's reputation as a strong negotiator will be comforting to Björgólfur
Gudmundsson, West Ham's Icelandic owner. The Italian worked as a sporting
events organiser but took on his present role soon after he married Silvia
Corioni, the daughter of Luigi Corioni, the president of Brescia.
Nani's arrival at Brescia coincided with that of Roberto Baggio, whose
performances helped the team to seventh place in Serie A in 2001 – the best
placing in the club's history – but they were relegated after the retirement
of the former Italy forward in 2004.
Alan Curbishley, the West Ham manager, has been part of the interview
process, leading the club to believe that there will be no tension between
him and Nani. Damien Comolli and Frank Arnesen, the only other sporting
directors working in the Barclays Premier League, have crossed swords with
the managers at Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea respectively, while Nicky
Hammond is the Reading director of football. Comolli's fractious
relationship with Martin Jol has been linked to the dismissal of the
Dutchman at White Hart Lane in October.
Nani will also be expected to oversee the development of the proposed new
stadium next to West Ham Underground station and the move to a
better-equipped training facility. The club will be forced to leave their
present training ground in Chadwell Health, Essex, in about five years.
After Ron Greenwood created the West Ham United youth system, some of
England's finest players came from Upton Park
Bobby Moore (108 caps, 2 goals); Geoff Hurst (49, 24); Martin Peters (67,
20); Trevor Brooking (47, 5); Alvin Martin (17, 0); Tony Cottee (7, 0); Paul
Ince (53, 2); Rio Ferdinand (65, 2); Frank Lampard (60, 14); Joe Cole (48,
7); Michael Carrick (13, 0) Glen Johnson (5, 0).
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Spurs Reserves v West Ham Reserves, 25.02.08 - Spurs Odyessey
BARCLAYS PREMIER RESERVE LEAGUE (South)
MONDAY 25TH FEBRUARY, 2008
SPURS RESERVES 1 (1) WEST HAM RESERVES 3 (1)
(at Brisbane Road)
Spurs scorer:-
Rose, 34
West Ham scorers:-
Sears, 45, 74
Ashton, 69
Referee: - Mr. J. Hopkins
Attendance: - Est. 350
Teams:-
Spurs (4-4-2):- Button; Hughton, Archibald-Henville (Capt.), Dervite (sub
Mason, 76), Martin; Fraser-Allen (sub Parrett, 61), Livermore, Rose, Hutton
(sub Mtandari, 61); Dawkins, Obika
Subs not used: - Jansson; Hutchins
Booked: - Archibald-Henville, Martin,
West Ham (4-4-2):- Walker; Pantsil, Spector, Tomkins (sub Spence, 71),
Miller (sub Fitzgerald, 79); Sears, Collison (Capt.), Stokes, Reid; Ashton,
Zomora (sub Hines, 46)
Subs not used: - Miklosko; Stanislas
Booked: - Spector
If you go to watch Spurs Reserves these days, you do not go in anticipation
of a decent result. Tonight was a typical current example, as Clive Allen's
side fell to a fifth consecutive defeat, and remains at the wrong end of the
ten-team table. However, you do need to bear in mind that Spurs Reserves
these days rarely include anyone within a sniff of the first team. The
average age of the squad tonight was really low, including a genuine
schoolboy in the shape of substitute Dean Parrett, making his very first
competitive appearance at this level. Parrett came on as substitute for his
fellow Academy side player Kyle Fraser-Allen after 61 minutes, and with his
combative ball-winning style became one of the genuine attractions of the
night.
All of the above of course is a preamble to the fact that Spurs were beaten
3-1 by a West Ham side that started with five players who have played first
team football, including defenders Pantsil and Spector, and a multi-million
pound strike force in Dean Ashton and Bobby Zomora. Bobby Zomora was
replaced at half-time by Zavon Hines, who was one of the fleet-footed West
ham youngsters who caught the eye more than their more established stars.
Man of the match was Freddie Sears, who scored two and set up Ashton's goal
so that even the dyed blond haired striker couldn't miss, hard as he had
tried for much of the rest of the game. West Ham even had Ludek Miklosko on
the bench, replacing Adam Street at late notice. Presumably the Hammers
goalkeeping coach is still registered, or Spurs were feeling generous of
spirit, one day after winning their 17th major trophy yesterday.
Perhaps the Reserves had also been at the after match party yesterday. After
a bright start, during which Simon Dawkins starred with some great back to
the goal hold up play, as well as a useful turn of speed and several decent
shots, Spurs succumbed to their more experienced opponents, well supported
by near neighbours to Leyton Orient's ground, West Ham.
Spurs played David Button in goal, with Cian Hughton at right back, and Joe
Martin on the opposite side. Troy Archibald-Henville skippered the side from
centre-back partnered by Dorian Dervite, who is still fighting his own
personal battle to get back to full match fitness. 17 year old Danny Rose
was in central midfield beside Jake Livermore, and Fraser-Allen and David
Hutton were on the flanks. Jonathan Obika partnered Dawkins.
Spurs had the first chance of the game after two minutes, when Fraser-Allen
crossed from the right, and Rose headed over from the back post. Dervite won
an early contest against Ashton, showing good strength, taking the ball away
from the striker too. Dawkins was forging opportunities for himself and hit
a good shot just outside the post after 8 minutes. Five minutes later he was
almost in a shooting position, but chose to pass to Dervite who had advanced
forward. Dervite went down under Miller's challenge, but no penalty was
awarded, as Miller came out with the ball.
It had taken them a while to penetrate the Spurs defence, but eventually the
Hammers did have a good chance from which Ashton should have headed home
Pantsil's cross. Danny Rose was involved in a scuffle with Stokes, but the
referee chose to "have words" only. There followed a period where West ham
did get more and more possession and spent time in the Spurs half, without
creating enough direct chances. Spurs took a 34th minute lead through Danny
Rose's free kick, taken near the right touch line, which beat everybody in
the box to go directly into the net!
Dawkins won another battle about 35 yards out and exchanged passes with
Hutton, before having his shot blocked. The referee was generous with the
added time, and West ham scored an equaliser when Ashton got to the bye
line, cut the ball back where Reid mis-cued a shot. The ball fell
fortuitously to Sears who made no mistake with a low shot beneath Button's
right hand.
Zomora was replaced by Hines at half-time, and Hines moved to the right
flank, with Sears coming in to partner Ashton. Spurs started to struggle to
contain the West Ham attacks, which were made with pace and good incisive
passing through the middle. Ashton was the eventual recipient of one ball
that ran across the area from the right, and although he hit a shot on
target this one was easy for Button. Button did well after 63 minutes to
deprive Sears of a clever flicked goal, reaching high to grab the shot from
going over his head.
West Ham took the lead in the 69th minute when Sears collected a good ball
inside the right channel, took the ball to the bye line and made it easy for
Ashton to fire home from close range. It was one way traffic at this stage,
and Button had to save from Stokes. The visitors' lead was increased when
Ashton rose to meet a long ball, and flicked it quickly and accurately to
the advancing Sears who was already behind the Spurs defence, and with only
button to beat made no mistake, this time firing low to the left of the
young keeper.
Only now did Spurs start to defend stoutly, as Troy Archibald-Henville led
by example with some good winning tackles. It was all too late though, and
much as they tried, Spurs could not reduce the deficit. The Reserves face
another tough task next Monday night here at Brisbane Road, when they
entertain high-flying Aston Villa. On Saturday, at Spurs Lodge, many of
tonight's side will no doubt be involved in the return fixture against
second-placed Leicester City. Spurs beat Leicester 5-3 earlier in the
season, and are currently just two points behind the Foxes. Ray will be
watching the youngsters, while I travel to Birmingham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carr ready to send West Ham kids away on-loan
tribalfooball.com - February 25, 2008
West Ham United academy chief Tony Carr admits more of his U18 squad are
likely to be sent out on-loan after the success of defender Bondz N'Gala.
Carr told whufc.com: "Bondz going to Weymouth for a short period helped him
to grow up and did him the world of good. They are either going to sink or
swim these young lads. It is good they are exposed to the real world of
men's football. The game matters and it is really important at that level
for these teams. The boys have to grow up quickly. We always try and give
them the opportunity for them to go on loan.
"The circumstances have to be right and it depends what our needs are. We
can't let players go on loan and leave ourselves short. It depends where we
are at in terms of players but if we have the opportunity we always will."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham chief: Sears won't get big-headed
tribalfootball.com - February 25, 2008
West Ham United academy chief Tony Carr is confident whizkid Freddie Sears
won't let the hype go to his head. "He has had a terrific season and caught
the eye," Carr told whufc.com. "All the players at this level must keep
grounded and he is that sort of player. He is West Ham through and through
and just wants to do well for himself and the club."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blues eye £4m deal for West Ham striker - FansFC.com
08:27 February, 26, 2008
Bobby Zamora will become a summer target for Birmingham City if they stay in
the Premier League. The 27-year-old is back to full fitness after injury
problems that have restricted him to just a handful of games this season. He
is likely to feature in the first-team over the next few months but could be
allowed to move in the summer if Dean Ashton and Craig Bellamy are fit and
available to boss Alan Curbishley. Zamora was a prolific goalscorer at
Brighton before a move to Spurs in the summer of 2003. He joined West Ham
later on that season.
Story by Alex Wolstenholme
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fulham 0-1 West Ham: Matthew Upson wears Bobby Moore's shirt with pride -
The Mirror
By John Cross
25/02/2008
Matthew Upson underlined his international credentials to Fabio Capello on
the day England's greatest-ever captain was remembered by his two former
clubs. Legendary World Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore, who died of cancer
15 years ago yesterday aged only 51, was honoured with a minute's applause
from both sets of fans. And it was fitting that Upson rose to the occasion
with a performance worthy of Moore's famous No.6 shirt to enhance his
chances of keeping his place in Capello's line-up for next month's friendly
in France. Upson has gone from strength to strength this season and seems to
have grown in stature since Capello surprisingly picked him for his first
game in charge as England boss against Switzerland. AdvertisementCapello was
at Craven Cottage to cast an eye over Upson (below) and Hammers keeper
Robert Green, and cannot have failed to notice Mark Noble's outstanding
midfield performance. But it is Upson who is at the forefront of Capello's
mind. The ex-Arsenal defender has revived his career under Alan Curbishley
and said he felt "honoured" to be wearing Moore's No.6 shirt. "It's been a
great honour ever since the manager gave it to me; I was aware Bobby wore
that number when he was here," said Upson. "It's great to wear that shirt,
he's a legend and you could see from the round of applause he got that he
still means a lot to our fans. Bobby will never be forgotten. "The way he
conducted himself off the pitch and applied himself on it was fantastic. It
means a lot to be following in his footsteps."
Upson was one of the players who most impressed Capello in his first game in
charge, especially as the England manager likes to have a natural
right-footed and left-footed player on either side of central defence.
Left-footer Upson, who has introduced a sports psychologist into his
pre-match routine, is now confident that he will keep his place against
France in Paris next month. "One hundred per cent," said Upson boldly. "I've
worked really hard to get into the England side and it's a massive goal of
mine to play for my country as often as possible. I'm hungry to do that and
I'll do whatever it takes to stay in the side."
Hammers keeper Green also did well in front of Capello with a crucial
one-on-one save from Jimmy Bullard before Nobby Solano's controversial
87th-minute winner which went in off the Peruvian winger's elbow. It
certainly upset Fulham midfielder Leon Andreasen enough for him to talk
himself into a second booking and sending-off. But it did bring a dull game
to life in the dying stages. Fulham rarely looked dangerous and now look
doomed. And for all of West Ham's forward talent, boss Curbishley admits he
is frustrated that his team are not producing more entertaining
performances, although playing Carlton Cole as a lone striker is hardly an
attacking move. Curbishley said: "I want to see us be more expansive. We
have got a strong base at the moment and hopefully the attacking stuff will
come through, but it's not for the want of trying. We've got midfielders
like Ljungberg, Boa Morte and Noble out there and you can't tell me they're
defensive. I've got two full-backs who like to get forward. In training
getting forward is all we do."
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson was furious that Solano's winner was allowed to
stand but decided against confronting referee Howard Webb. "What's the point
in talking to him? Will he change the result, will he go back on his
decision, will he rescind the red card, and will he take away the goal?
"It's a pointless exercise."
Attendance: 25,280
Man Of The Match: Noble
TEAMS AND RATINGS
Fulham: Niemi 5, Stalteri 6, Hughes 7, Hangeland 5, Konchesky 7, Andreasen
6, Bullard 7, Murphy 6, Dempsey 6 (Johnson 76), McBride 5, Kamara 5.
West Ham: Green 7, Neill 6, Ferdinand 6, Upson 7, McCartney 6, Ljungberg 7
(Spector 90), Mullins 6, Faubert 5 (Solano 63, 6), Noble 8, Boa Morte 6,
Cole 7 (Ashton 80).
Referee: Howard Webb
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Zamora ready for Tottenham test - then it's Chelsea - Daily Mail
Last updated at 11:33am on 25th February 2008
Bobby Zamora has targeted a return to first-team action against Chelsea on
Saturday as West Ham look to step up their bid for a place in Europe next
season. Zamora, who last played for the senior team last August, has been
plagued by knee problems but is now almost ready to declare himself fit for
the climax of the Hammers' season. The striker was due to play a reserve
team match at his former club Tottenham today and provided he comes through
that with no ill-effects, is hoping to be named in manager Alan Curbishley's
squad for the clash with the Blues. Curbishley has favoured the one striker
system in recent matches and Carlton Cole was again preferred to Dean Ashton
in the 1-0 win over Fulham. The Cottagers lost to a late controversial goal
from West Ham substitute Nobby Solano and manager Roy Hodgson was adamant
the effort should have been ruled out by referee Howard Webb for a foul on
goalkeeper Antti Niemi. "I didn't speak to the referee afterwards because
what is the point? He won't change his decision," said Hodgson. "Players
make mistakes and so do referees. In my opinion he made one for the goal and
if he has seen it on TV, although he and his linesman will be trying to
justify the decision, in their heart of hearts they will be saying 'we were
very kind to West Ham.' "There is no depression about the place, though,
despite the situation. I thought the performance against West Ham was quite
buoyant. "We're not getting the points but I'm not seeing us outplayed by
many teams. If I am going to take any positives it would be that but if you
are going to say would I swap those things for bad performances and wins, of
course I would, who wouldn't?"
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Curbs: West Ham Fans find me Boring - Cmonyouirons
Posted by Joe J on February 25th, 2008
Alan Curbishley wants to deliver more entertainment to West Ham fans so they
are not relying of the likes of Nolberto Solano's messy winner that settled
their clash against Fulham. Solano's controversial strike was a scrappy goal
to settle a scrappy game at Craven Cottage, with the winger appearing to
catch goalkeeper Antti Niemi as he tried to reach Luis Boa Morte's pass
three minutes from full-time. Niemi received a cut to the shoulder but to
make matters worse, the ball appeared to go in off Solano's arm. Leon
Andreasen picked up his second booking protesting to referee Howard Webb.
The winner was the main talking point of a dreary game. Fulham's excuse is
battling relegation but West Ham are chasing European qualification and have
been accused of being too negative. "We need to get more players back fit".
"It's not for the want of trying," said Hammers boss Curbishley. "In
training it's all we do". "We've got players like Freddie Ljungberg, Luis
Boa Morte, Mark Noble - you can't tell me they are defensive. "Our defensive
record is fantastic, just outside the top four for that. We need a little
more. We have players that can give us that, some are injured and some of
the players we have now can give us that. So we'll keep working on it. "We
look at the Manchester City games when we played away from home and we
created six or seven chances. On numerous occasions we got four or five in
the box but we haven't fashioned that final pass or finish. "The Parkers,
Bellamys and Dyers and the others that have to get themselves fit - we have
the potential. We have a strong base at the moment and I'm hoping the
attacking stuff will come through."
Noble was Curbishley's most influential player at Craven Cottage, amidst the
mediocrity putting in a strong performance in front of England boss Fabio
Capello. The Football Association cover every game and I know he and Franco
Baldini have watched us regularly," Curbishley said. "Why not? We have a
healthy contingent of English players, especially when the Parkers and Dyers
get back. "I hope one or two of them have done themselves justice."
Robert Green did nothing wrong in goal either, saving a one-on-one chance
from Jimmy Bullard. Just in front of him was Matthew Upson, who started in
Capello's first match in charge. "I'm really hungry to play for my country
and do whatever it takes to stay in there," said the centre-back. "Your
domestic form is important for the manager when he's watching and also for
when you join up with the squad. "The pressure is on in sense of the
competition but that's healthy."
Upson was wearing the number six of Bobby Moore, who was honoured before the
game at Craven Cottage by his only two English clubs. "It's great to wear
the shirt of such a legend and I thought he got a great round of applause
and he'll never be forgotten at this club," Upson added. Victory edged West
Ham closer to the European places, while Fulham are in deep trouble at the
wrong end. At least they could welcome Brian McBride back for his first
start since a serious knee injury. "We need wins right now," said the
American striker. "I wanted to be part of this team and helping them. I have
that chance now and I have to do that. "I think you can see there's a lot of
belief. I think as soon as we start taking our chances then things will
change for us."
Boss Roy Hodgson also has Jari Litmanen back in training next week after he
complained of minor palpitations and was told by a cardiologist to rest.
Hodgson was upset by Solano's goal but did not go to referee Webb for an
explanation. "I will do my grieving in private," said the Fulham boss.
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Curbs praise for players - Setanta
by Alex Livie, 25 February 2008
Alan Curbishley has heaped praise on the players who have dug in to help
West Ham through their injury hell. The Hammers' season threatened to fall
off the rails in the autumn, as new recruits Craig Bellamy, Kieron Dyer,
Scott Parker and Julien Faubert picked up serious injuries. However, West
Ham are still on course for Europe and following the scrappy 1-0 win over
Fulham at the weekend, Curbishley opted to praise his players. He said:
"When you consider that Julien Faubert, Bellamy and Dyer have played 15
games between them - for £25 million worth of talent and add that to the
absence of James Collins and Danny Gabbidon, then the players that have been
out there week-in, week-out have done fantastically well. "The back five are
the only thing that's been constant. Robert Green has been a major part of
that but Matthew Upson has been an important part of that as well. "It's
probably what has got us where we are that we look very strong defensively.
Some teams do manage to break us down but one of them pulls us out of it."
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