This weekend's match against Villarreal will see West Ham United honour
Bobby Moore's lasting legacy
04.08.2008
West Ham United will retire the No6 shirt with this Saturday's inaugural
match for the Bobby Moore Cup against Spanish giants Villarreal at the
Boleyn Ground.
It is 50 years since the club legend made his debut in a 3-2 home win
against Manchester United on Monday 8 September 1958. As such, it was felt
the time was right to permanently honour his contribution and lasting
legacy. The decision was taken after close consultation with Bobby's widow
Stephanie Moore, current No6 Matthew Upson, the England defender who will
become the last player to wear the number, and the Premier League.
A billboard in the corner of the stadium will also feature a permanent No6
this season to remind of the significance of the half-century since a
17-year-old Moore broke into the first team. The rest is history. He went on
to captain the club to success in the 1964 FA Cup and the 1965 European Cup
Winners' Cup before finally leaving in 1974.
The 9 August match also marks a new three-year partnership agreement with
the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK, which was announced last month.
The club is proud to already have a long-standing association with the
charity, which works tirelessly to raise money for research into bowel
cancer.
It was founded by Stephanie Moore, in partnership with Cancer Research UK
(Registered Charity No. 1089464), after his tragic death from the disease
aged just 51 in 1993. To commemorate the new partnership, £1 from the sale
of every match ticket will go to the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK
to help tackle bowel cancer. In addition, West Ham United will match each £1
raised to double the total amount donated to the charity.
This initiative follows on from a number of events last season, including
the dedication of the home match against Newcastle United in his honour and
the end of season championship staged at the stadium. With the new
partnership, the Fund will have even stronger ties.
Stephanie Moore, of the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research, said: "The
legendary No6 shirt is synonymous with Bobby and his triumphant and
illustrious footballing career. It's retirement signifies deep respect,
affection and admiration for all that Bobby achieved and all that he
represented in this marvellous game of ours. Thank you, West Ham."
West Ham United CEO Scott Duxbury said: "When we were talking about ways to
mark 50 years since Bobby Moore's debut, there was only one true gesture
that would do him justice - retiring the No6 shirt he made his own. With the
launching of the Bobby Moore Cup and the partnership with the fund in his
name as well, he will be a part of this club for generations to come.
Whenever fans think of West Ham United, they will think of Bobby Moore."
West Ham United manager Alan Curbishley said: "It is a fitting tribute to
the greatest West Ham player ever and the decision to retire the Bobby Moore
No6 shirt shows the esteem to which Bobby is held at the club.
"I first met Bobby as a 14-year-old being invited into the club during the
summer holidays by Ron Greenwood to join in the pre-season training. I have
fond memories of Bobby Moore as a person because of those times. He was the
sort of person who had time for anybody. That was a great part of his
personality. As a 14-year-old I had numerous conversations during the six
weeks which helped me progress as a young player."
West Ham United defender Matthew Upson, who will wear the No15 shirt after
Saturday's game, said: "I think it's a fitting contribution by the club to
retire the No6 shirt in tribute to Bobby Moore. I am honoured to be the last
player to wear the No6. I will miss it, but I am glad that is being retired
in honour of such a fantastic player and a true club legend."
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Lastuvka to sign on loan - WHUFC
Alan Curbishley is set to have Czech goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka as part of his
options for the new season
04.08.2008
West Ham United have agreed to sign the 26-year-old Czech goalkeeper Jan
Lastuvka on a one-year loan from Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk.
The experienced performer completed his medical over the weekend before
finalising his switch. Lastuvka will join two compatriots - the highly-rated
18-year-old, and fellow shot-stopper Marek Stech, and goalkeeping coach
Ludek Miklosko, at the Boleyn Ground. A former Under-21 international,
Lastuvka spent four years at Miklosko's former club Banik Ostrava, including
winning the Czech title in the 2003/04 season, before moving to Ukrainian
football.
Lastuvka, who will wear the No24 shirt, will compete with Robert Green,
Jimmy Walker and Stech, who after agreeing a five-year contract recently is
set to be a regular in first-team pre-season action this summer. He
previously spent one season on loan from Shakhtar to Fulham, making eight
top-flight appearances in the 2006/07 campaign, before 25 Bundesliga games
on a similar temporary arrangement with VfL Bochum last season.
Alan Curbishley believed the new arrival would have a positive impact on the
squad, after recommendation by Miklosko. "Ludo is very keen," he said. "I
think he feels that we will have a group of goalkeepers that work ever so
hard in training and will be pushing and forcing each other to produce the
performances."
Miklosko said: "Jan will be a very good addition to the club. We needed an
experienced goalkeeper who, alongside Jimmy Walker, will be back-up for
Robert Green. I know of Jan from when he played for the Czech Republic
Under-21's and have known him for a few years now. He is an experienced
goalkeeper and it is great for us to have him here. We are looking forward
to working with him at West Ham and have him join what is a great group of
goalkeepers."
Meanwhile, West Ham United have also acquired the services of 17-year-old
Austrian midfielder Georg Grasser from Grazer AK, who will be a part of Tony
Carr's youth-team set-up for the new campaign. The club have also signed
this summer the highly-rated Swiss international Valon Behrami and Iceland
U21 defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson.
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Stech gets stuck in - WHUFC
The coming season promises to be a big one for Marek Stech as he looks to
catch Alan Curbishley's eye
04.08.2008
Marek Stech is looking to put the good advice he has received from
team-mates into action this season after gaining vital first-team experience
in the last week.
After getting 20 minutes in the 2-0 win at Peterborough United last Tuesday,
the 18-year-old goalkeeper got his chance to make his full debut, albeit in
a non-competitive fixture, against Southampton last week. He was a confident
performer and although Southampton struck twice in the 2-2 draw, the
upcoming keeper was not fazed. He underlined his growing stature by making
some good saves before and after the two goals.
"The first chance they had, I managed to get a hand to it and push it over
the bar," said Stech, who replaced the rested Robert Green. "They scored
twice but I was still able to get some saves in and I felt confident
throughout the match. The manager said I played well and I was happy to hear
that, because it was my debut for the first team and a big moment for me."
Stech, who signed a new five-year contract last month, revealed that Alan
Curbishley only told him he would be in the starting eleven just before
kick-off. "The manager told me I was playing and it was a nice surprise,"
said Stech. "Greeny had travelled as well, so I didn't expect to start. I
was very pleased to get the shout."
The Czech youth international keeper has also been included in the squad
alongside Green that travels to Ipswich for Monday's friendly at Portman
Road. There is a good relationship between the two and he also gets plenty
of support from the other senior players - especially his fellow
stop-stoppers and goalkeeping coach Ludeuk Miklosko.
Stech added: "In training, Greeny and Jimmy [Walker] talk to me about how I
can do this or that better. Ludo is also helping me and always talks to me
before and after a game. It is good to hear all of this and all I can do is
my best in training and then show the manager what I can do on the pitch."
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Hines shows his variety - WHUFC
Young striker Zavon Hines is ready to focus on his all-round game in order
to prove his ability
04.08.2008
Zavon Hines is having a purple patch in front of goal and is enjoying every
minute of his good form during pre-season.
Despite five goals in five games, the 19-year-old striker still has his feet
firmly on the ground and is simply looking to learn and improve in every
match he plays. Hines scored his third penalty of the pre-season, when he
put a West Ham United XI ahead in a 2-1 loss against Grays Athletic at the
weekend. He had rounded out the scoring the night before in the 2-2 draw at
Southampton with perhaps his best strike to date this summer.
That goal followed previous strikes against Hampton and Richmond Borough,
Thurrock and Billericay. For Hines, who has come through West Ham's
acclaimed youth academy, it is just where he wants to be but he knows there
is a way to go before putting pressure on the first-choice forwards. "I have
been waiting a long time to be at this point of my career. I have got
chances in these matches and have taken them," said the south London-born
forward.
"I want to keep scoring, but I am also aware that it's not just about
scoring goals, I have to make sure I am improving myself in every game. It's
about the whole performance." That said, it is his prowess in front of goal
that has given him extra confidence to offer more to the team.
That was underlined in the way he imposed himself at St Mary's after
entering the fray as a replacement for Carlton Cole. "Valon [Behrami]
crossed the ball and I heard Julien [Faubert] call for it behind me," said
Hines. "But I have been told to be more selfish when I am around the box, so
I just kept the ball and took a shot. I was so excited to see it go in.
"I am just looking forward to every game. The manager has told me I have
done well and we have also talked about things I don't do well yet, which is
good, because you learn from your mistakes. I am just trying to take it all
in and get better in each game that comes along."
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Lastuvka joins West Ham on loan - BBC
West Ham have signed Czech Republic keeper Jan Lastuvka on a season-long
loan deal from Shakhtar Donetsk, according to the Ukrainian club. Shakhtar's
website states that Lastuvka, 26, completed a medical at Upton Park over the
weekend. The former under-21 international spent the 2006/07 season on loan
at Fulham and played 12 games for the Cottagers. Lastuvka then returned to
Shakhtar but was loaned out again last season, which he spent with German
side VfL Bochum. He began his career with Czech side MFK Karvina and also
played for Banik Ostrava before joining Shakhtar in 2004. Lastuvka's
compatriot, and fellow goalkeeper, Marek Stech is also on West Ham's books
and another Czech, Ludek Miklosko, is the club's goalkeeping coach.
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One more for the Academy - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th August 2008
By: Staff Writer
The club have confirmed the capture of 17-year-old Austrian
defender/midfielder Georg Grasser. Austrian under-19 international Grasser
will play for Tony Carr's youth team next season and becomes the latest
foreign youngster to arrive at the club since Gianluca Nani's appointment
earlier this year. Formerly of GAK (Graz), Grasser was first linked with a
move to the Hammers back in March. His former club have received a nominal
fee (thought to be in the region of £100,000) but the deal also includes
clauses for first team appearances and international call-ups. Should
Grasser not prove a success at West Ham the deal allows him to return to his
former club at the end of his contract on a free transfer, according to
reports. The youngster was also said to be interesting Udinese of Italy but
opted to move to England instead.
* Grasser's former club GAK went into administration last season and will
play in Austria's Regionalliga (third division) next season after being hit
with a massive points deduction.
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Too little, too late? - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th August 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's decision to retire Bobby Moore's number six shirt fifteen
years after his death has been criticised by a number of supporters. The
club's decision to retire the shirt often worn by Moore was revealed at the
weekend, since when a number of supporters have questioned the timing and
reasons behind it. Twice before fans have urged the club to retire the
number six shirt, but on both occasions - first in 1993 following Moore's
death, then again seven years ago following a concerted effort - those pleas
were rejected by the club's previous administration.
However the club have now decided to act in order to mark 50 years since
Moore's first team debut. United CEO Scott Duxbury told whufc.com: "When we
were talking about ways to mark 50 years since Bobby Moore's debut, there
was only one true gesture that would do him justice - retiring the No6 shirt
he made his own. With the launching of the Bobby Moore Cup and the
partnership with the fund in his name as well, he will be a part of this
club for generations to come. Whenever fans think of West Ham United, they
will think of Bobby Moore."
West Ham United have been heavily criticised over the years for refusing to
work with Moore after he left the club in 1974. The World Cup winning hero,
who spent 16 years at the Boleyn at a first team player was forced to work
as a pundit for radio in his final years - something many supporters have
never forgiven the club for.
One supporter, talking on KUMB's forum this weekend said: "Why retire a
number? It's a stupid move as far as I'm concerned. I still don't like squad
numbers and this is just another American habit we don't neeed. "People
should be happy and proud to claim the number six shirt at West Ham. It is a
shame he just wasn't looked after by the club when he was alive."
Whilst another added: "If this were to be done it should have been done when
the great man died, not 15 years down the line. Because of that, this seems
like a bit of an hollow act. "We, and most of football, know and recognise
just how good Bobby Moore was. It doesn't need this to show that."
However some fans were supportive of the idea; one stating: "About time. He
was the most legendary player to wear the claret and blue and this is a
fitting tribute."
* Current number 6 Matthew Upson will wear the number 15 shirt this season.
Those supporters who have pruchased a replica shirt with Upson's name and
current number are advised to contact the club in order to arrange for a
replacement.
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Lastuvka deal confirmed - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th August 2008
By: Staff Writer
Shaktar Donetsk have confimred that goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka will play for
West Ham United next season. The 26-year-old goalkeeper successfully passed
a medical with United over the weekend after travelling into London last
Friday and will spend the 2008/09 season on loan with the Hammers.
United will have the opportunity to make the loan deal permanent at the end
of the season should Lastuvka impress enough. The Czech keeper, the third on
West Ham United's books alongside Marek Stech and goalkeeping coach Ludo
Miklosko (who was a substitute at Grays on Saturday) will not feature at
Ipswich tonight but should be in the squad to face Villarreal at the Boleyn
Ground on Saturday afternoon.
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Pre-season so far - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th August 2008
By: Thomas Rooney
The old clichés are that 'it's only a friendly' and that pre-season games
'mean very little'. Well, although I recognise they are not the be all and
end all, they do hold some more significance than some people give them
credit for in my opinion. It gives the manager the chance to find out more
about his new players, experiment with formations and start to get an idea
of what his best eleven is.
Of course, this experimental approach to friendlies could jeopardise the
result you achieve. That's why there has to be a balance. Football is a
results business and if your team can get into the winning habit before the
season begins, then that's ideal. Nobody wants to be going into a new season
with a few defeats under their belts; it doesn't do anything for confidence.
So, in my opinion, managers should be adopting tactics that will win them
the game. Not ones which will best accommodate seeing a few players try new
positions.
When it comes to pre-season I accept that fans' predictions can go from one
extreme to the other. Win a few games in pre-season and it's 'we can do it
this year', lose a few and it's 'we are useless – going down'. So, maybe
that is another incentive to do well in pre-season. It might just keep the
fans positive for a few games longer!
So, with all this in mind, how have West Ham got on so far in their
pre-season campaign? Well, they started off with a victory over non-league
side Hampton and Richmond. As good a start as any I suppose…then came the
two games in America. First up was a trip to Ohio to face Columbus Crew.
Just six minutes into the game, the Hammers were in front. Dean Ashton – who
it is great to see getting a pre-season under his belt – knocked the ball in
from just outside the penalty area. However, 'the Crew' were back on level
terms when Jason Garey got himself on the score sheet. West Ham weren't to
be denied their second win of pre-season though and an own goal from Brad
Evans plus a Kyel Reid strike, secured the victory.
Next up was a game against David Beckham's MLS AllStars. The negatives from
this one? West Ham lost 3-2. The positives? Dean Ashton netted twice to
continue his good form. I really hope he can stay fit for the majority of
next season, because if he does I would put all my football betting money on
him scoring at least 15 goals. Losing against a team containing players that
were voted into the team by fans isn't fantastic, but on this occasion I
think Ashton's goals outweigh the result in terms of significance ahead of
the coming season.
After returning home from America, the first real game of pre-season took
place. I say this because it was against a league side in England. That is
what is going to prepare you for the Premier League, not a couple of
exhibition matches in the American sunshine. Anyway, I am happy to report
that the game against Peterborough saw a strong West Ham side put in a good
performance. They looked like a decent outfit. Most importantly though,
Craig Bellamy – who only played nine times last season – scored the game's
two goals to give West Ham victory. He looked sharp and raring to go. He can
be a huge player for Alan Curbishley next season, of that I have no doubt.
Like Curbishley recently said, he will be like a 'new signing' if he does
stay fit. So, 2-0 to West Ham against League One new-boys Peterborough.
The most recent friendly saw West Ham go up a level in terms of opposition.
They travelled to St Marys to play Championship side Southampton. Bellamy
was again in the starting eleven as the Hammers drew 2-2 after coming from
behind. Dave McGoldrick scored twice for the home side to give them a two
goal cushion, but West Ham hit back through Calum Davenport and 19-year-old
striker Zavon Hines. A poor result really, but it did show the teams
battling qualities and that can only be a good thing.
Now there are just two pre-season games remaining before the big kick-off.
Games against Ipswich and Villarreal come before West Ham host Wigan on 16th
August in the Premier League. Overall, I think preparations are going well.
The biggest factor for me is that Craig Bellamy and Dean Ashton are playing
and scoring goals. They can form an excellent partnership, I'm certain of
that. They compliment each other well and will score plenty of goals if they
are given a run of games together.
Of course, there still are a few injury concerns, but I think the team is
taking shape. Mark Noble and Scott Parker are forming a strong central
midfield partnership and as I have already mentioned, the strike force is
also taking shape. Throw in the positive impact Valon Behrami has made and
it's been a good pre-season. It is hard to predict where West Ham will
finish at this stage, but I'm positive and I honestly believe that if the
team that has operated the majority of these warm up games stays fit, then
it will be a much better season than last time.
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Zamora blames Hammers' U-turn - SSN
New Fulham striker explains Upton Park exit
Last updated: 4th August 2008
New Fulham striker Bobby Zamora claims he was forced to leave West Ham
because the club performed a U-turn on a written contract offer. Zamora made
a surprise move from east to west London in July as Fulham boss Roy Hodgson
spent £4.8million to secure the forward's services. And the former Tottenham
and Brighton man has now blamed his Upton Park exit on the Hammers and has
accused the club of going back on a written promise of a new contract.
Robert Green recently criticised West Ham for failing to offer him a new
deal and Zamora believes that a number of squad members are unsettled by the
club's financial policy. "West Ham is my club and the team I always wanted
to play for, but football is a business now," Zamora said in the Daily
Mirror.
"I had it in writing that they would give me a contract but it didn't
happen. The club unfortunately changed their minds. "They accepted the bid
and that sort of says a lot and I was no longer needed. "It must be a little
unsettling for a few of the lads there and I know Rob Green has come out and
said something similar. "It was hard for me to leave as I am a West Ham fan
and love the club dearly because I had some brilliant years there. "I was
sad to leave but this is another chapter in my career and hopefully I will
get a chance to play a lot more football."
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Hammers land Lastuvka - SSN
Goalkeeper moves to Upton Park on season-long loan
By Vasek Kadlec Last updated: 4th August 2008
West Ham have completed the signing of Shakhtar Donetsk goalkeeper Jan
Lastuvka on a season-long loan. The Hammers also have the option to make the
deal for the 26-year-old permanent at the end of the campaign. Lastuvka will
now begin training with West Ham goalkeeping coach Ludek Miklosko, but he
does not expect to play a part in Monday's friendly at Ipswich. "On Monday I
have a light training with him (Ludek Miklosko)," Lastuvka told CTK. "The
team play a friendly match but I will not play in it. "I hope that I will
get into good shape overall and will be as helpful to the team as possible.
So far I have had only good feelings."
The one-time Czech Republic international also had offers from Sparta
Prague, Salzburg and Banik Ostrava during the summer. Lastuvka has already
had one spell in England with Fulham, although he was unable to secure
regular football ahead of Antti Niemi.
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Ljungberg happy with Hammers - SSN
Midfielder's agent rules out Olympiakos switch
By Kent Hedlundh Last updated: 4th August 2008
The agent of Freddie Ljungberg has rubbished reports linking the West Ham
midfielder with a move to Olympiakos. The 31-year-old has been linked with a
switch to Greece, while Roma have also been rumoured to have shown interest
over the summer. However, Ljungberg's agent, Claes Elefalk, insists the
former Sweden international is happy at Upton Park. "I can promise that we
haven't received any offer," Elefalk told Swedish media. "He is truly
enjoying himself in England. He is one of the best paid players in England
and I don't believe they (Olympiakos) have got the finances for it, either."
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Hammers to retire number six shirt in memory of Bobby - Guardian Series
2:19pm Monday 4th August 2008
WEST Ham United will retire the number six shirt with this Saturday's
inaugural match for the Bobby Moore Cup against Spanish giants Villarreal at
the Boleyn Ground. It is 50 years since the club legend made his debut in a
3-2 home win against Manchester United on Monday, September 8, 1958. As
such, it was felt the time was right to permanently honour his contribution
and lasting legacy. The decision was taken after close consultation with
Bobby's widow Stephanie Moore, current number six Matthew Upson - the
England defender who will become the last player to wear the number - and
the Premier League. A billboard in the corner of the stadium will also
feature a permanent number six this season to remind of the significance of
the half-century since a 17-year-old Moore broke into the first team. The
rest is history. He went on to captain the club to success in the 1964 FA
Cup and the 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup before finally leaving in 1974.
The August 9 match also marks a new three-year partnership agreement with
the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK, which was announced last month.
The club is proud to already have a long-standing association with the
charity, which works tirelessly to raise money for research into bowel
cancer. It was founded by Stephanie Moore, in partnership with Cancer
Research UK (Registered Charity No. 1089464), after his tragic death from
the disease aged just 51 in 1993. To commemorate the new partnership, £1
from the sale of every match ticket will go to the Bobby Moore Fund for
Cancer Research UK to help tackle bowel cancer.
In addition, West Ham United will match each £1 raised to double the total
amount donated to the charity. This initiative follows on from a number of
events last season, including the dedication of the home match against
Newcastle United in his honour and the end of season championship staged at
the stadium. With the new partnership, the Fund will have even stronger
ties.
Stephanie Moore, of the Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research, said: "The
legendary number six shirt is synonymous with Bobby and his triumphant and
illustrious footballing career. "It's retirement signifies deep respect,
affection and admiration for all that Bobby achieved and all that he
represented in this marvellous game of ours."
West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury said: "When we were talking about
ways to mark 50 years since Bobby Moore's debut, there was only one true
gesture that would do him justice – retiring the number six shirt he made
his own. "With the launching of the Bobby Moore Cup and the partnership with
the fund in his name as well, he will be a part of this club for generations
to come. "Whenever fans think of West Ham United, they will think of Bobby
Moore."
Boss Alan Curbishley added: "It is a fitting tribute to the greatest West
Ham player ever and the decision to retire the Bobby Moore number six shirt
shows the esteem to which Bobby is held at the club. "I first met Bobby as a
14-year-old being invited into the club during the summer holidays by Ron
Greenwood to join in the pre-season training. "I have fond memories of Bobby
Moore as a person because of those times. "He was the sort of person who had
time for anybody. That was a great part of his personality. "As a
14-year-old I had numerous conversations during the six weeks which helped
me progress as a young player."
Defender Upson - who will wear the number 15 shirt after Saturday's game -
said: "I think it's a fitting contribution by the club to retire the number
six shirt in tribute to Bobby Moore. "I am honoured to be the last player to
wear the number six. "I will miss it, but I am glad that is being retired in
honour of such a fantastic player and a true club legend."
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Fulham's Zamora just can't let go.... - BubblesInTheAir.com
Monday 04 Aug 2008 12:38:48 by Tony Watson
West Ham have yet again been the topic of discussion for Bobby Zamora. The
ex-Hammers striker has claimed the club said they were going to offer him a
new contract but then accepted an offer from Fulham for him. It is evident
Zamora left the Boleyn Ground with a heavy heart as he has not stopped
speaking about the club since he left. Whilst his comments towards his
feelings for the club were nice to hear for hammers fans one can't help
wonder what Fulham fans are thinking of his string of statements over the
past few weeks. For a player who cost around the £5 million mark surely
they'd expect him to be more focussed on his new club and the challenge
ahead at Craven Cottage instead of dwelling on his past at Upton Park.
Zamora told the Daily star "West Ham is my club and the team I always wanted
to play for, but football is a business now," "I had it in writing that they
would give me a contract but it didn't happen. The club unfortunately
changed their minds. "They accepted the bid and that sort of says a lot and
I was no longer needed. "It must be a little unsettling for a few of the
lads there and I know Rob Green has come out and said something similar. "It
was hard for me to leave as I am a West Ham fan and love the club dearly
because I had some brilliant years there. "I was sad to leave but this is
another chapter in my career and hopefully I will get a chance to play a lot
more football."
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West Ham complete Jan Lastuvka signing - Telegraph
West Ham have completed the signing of Shakhtar Donetsk goalkeeper Jan
Lastuvka on a season-long loan much to the delight of the club's goalkeeping
coach Ludek Miklosko.
By Matt Lawless
Last Updated: 12:06PM BST 04 Aug 2008
Miklosko, who was West Ham's number one between 1990 and 1998, believes his
Czech Republic compatriot will act as a reliable understudy for Robert Green
this season, following the departure of number two Richard Wright to
Ipswich. "He's a decent goalkeeper," said Miklosko, who is backing Lastuvka
to prove his doubters wrong after an unsuccessful loan spell with Fulham the
season before last. "At this moment, we need a number-two goalkeeper and Jan
knows he is coming as a number-two. "I know Jan very well and he had some
problems when he was at Fulham. He was on his own because, for some reason,
his family didn't come with him to England. "He couldn't concentrate on his
football properly, but they will come with him this time. I know him and I
trust him and he will be good for us. I'm looking forward to working with
him," he added. Lastuvka, 26, had his transfer confirmed by the Ukrainian
club this morning and is understood to have rejected a return to former club
Banik Ostrava, as well as turning down approaches from Sparta Prague and Red
Bull Salzburg in favour of a move to Upton Park. The goalkeeper has had
limited opportunities for Shakhtar due to restrictions on foreign players in
the Ukrainian league and has spent the past two seasons on loan, including
spells at Fulham and German side Bochum. Looking forward to the challenge,
Lastuvka said: "I hope that I will get into good shape overall and will be
as helpful to the team as possible. So far I have had only good feelings."
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Untried defenders set for Hammers clash - eveningstar.co.uk
04 August 2008 | 12:00
By ELVIN KING
IPSWICH Town could have 21-year-old and 18-year-old defenders making their
first team debuts when they begin their Coca-Cola Championship campaign on
Saturday. Both Pim Balkestein and Tommy Smith will be playing for a start
against Preston at the weekend when the Blues face Premier League West Ham
in a friendly at Portman Road tonight (kick-off 7.45pm). Signed from Dutch
club Heereveen in the summer, Balkestein has impressed manager Jim Magilton
in the troublesome left back role. The Dutch youngster, who made just one
first team appearance in Holland last season, has overcome a slight groin
strain and trained normally yesterday. Academy-produced Smith, who was
loaned to Stevenage last term, impressed against West Brom ten days ago, and
offers the height and physique that complements fellow central defender and
captain-elect Gareth McAuley. They will be playing for their places tonight
with Magilton saying: "Pim has impressed me at left back, and if he does not
turn out to be a success in the game it will our fault. "He has given me
food for thought for a left back role. Tommy has also impressed me
pre-season. "I was pleased with his display against West Brom and he will be
a better player for that game. "He is a challenger, and I will be watching
him closely tonight."
Town have produced some world class left-sided defenders over the years with
Kevin Beattie and Terry Butcher springing to mind, and Smith has the
attributes to follow suit. If McAuley leads Town out tonight he will be set
to take over from Jason De Vos as the new Ipswich skipper. Jonathan Walters
misses the game tonight because he is in the north west training under a
regime planned by Town's fitness staff while his wife awaits to give birth
to their second child. Walters is unlikely to face Preston unless he is able
to return to Portman Road soon. Otherwise, Town have everybody bar David
Norris available with a side similar to one that will face Preston set to
start - with ample substitutions after the break.
As indicated in Saturday's Evening Star, Magilton has been impressed with
Honduran trialist Emilio Izaguirre and the 22-year-old has stayed on after
originally planning to return at the weekend. But reports the left-sided
player has been offered a contract are wide of the mark. Magilton said:
"Emilio has done well in training and he featured yesterday. "I want to see
him in a match condition and will make a decision after we have fixed up a
game behind closed doors."
Izaguirre is ineligible to play tonight because he has no work permit and
does not come from within the EU. Town chief executive Derek Bowden is to
speak to Ben Thatcher today over the offer that has been made to the
ex-Charlton left-back. Thatcher has a 15-match ban hanging over his head
until August 23 - and nothing might happen until after then to nullify the
possibility of the player having to sit out a third of the season. Former
Town left back Jamie Clapham is training at Portman Road right now - but
there is little chance of a contract offer. "Jamie is a good lad and he
currently hasn't got a club," said Magilton. "I have no problem with him
spending a few days training with us."
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West Ham United complete move for Jan Lastuvka - Times Online and Agencies
West Ham United have signed Czech goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka on a season-long
loan from Shakhtar Donetsk, according to the Ukrainian club. Lastuvka, 26,
successfully completed a medical over the weekend and will provide back-up
to Hammers number one Robert Green. The former under-21 international spent
2006-07 on loan at Fulham where he played 12 games for the Cottagers. After
returning to Shakhtar when Lawrie Sanchez, the then Fulham manager, refused
to make his move permanent last summer, he enjoyed a successful year with
Bochum in Germany's Bundesliga.
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West Ham play down Kieron Dyer injury reports - Telegraph
West Ham have played down reports that Kieron Dyer has suffered a further
injury set-back, insisting the player has embarked on a six-week specialist
rehabilitation programme.
By Matt Lawless
Last Updated: 11:02AM BST 04 Aug 2008
Reports emanated at the weekend suggesting the England international would
be out for another four months after suffering a stress fracture on the same
leg he originally sustained a double-leg break last season. The horrific
injury occurred in a Carling Cup game at Bristol Rovers in what was only his
third outing for West Ham following his £6 million arrival from Newcastle.
Despite Dyer's initial hopes of a return in tonight's friendly against
former side Ipswich, West Ham have announced that the player is not yet
ready for match action and they have no desire to rush him back. The club's
official website confirmed new chief medical officer, Nikos Tzouroudis,
re-assessed Dyer's injury last week and decided the best course of action
would be to continue on a specialist rehabilitation programme over the next
six weeks before beginning a period of pre-season training. Dyer,
historically unfortunate with injuries during his career, has been a rare
and expensive commodity at Upton Park costing £2 million per appearance so
far. Two weeks ago, Dyer had earmarked a return to action against at Portman
Road this evening. The midfielder, who has won 33 international caps for
England, reported that he had renewed optimism for the new season after
partaking in a training session for the first time in 11 months following an
intense regime of rehabilitation. He said: "It's just so good to be involved
again. I had a few setbacks but have been able to put all that behind me
now. I've worked hard to get through it all. "Once the pre-season fixtures
came out, I noticed we were playing Ipswich. I thought that would be a good
game to pencil in for my return."
Manager Alan Curbishley still has a host of players unavailable to injury
but has been buoyed by the return of Craig Bellamy, Julien Faubert, Lee
Bowyer and Matty Etherington who spent most of last season on the treatment
table. Curbishley has reportedly captured the signing of Czech Republic
goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka from Shakhtar Donetsk on a season-long loan. The
former Fulham player, 26, will challenge Robert Green for the number one
jersey.
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Injury blow for Hammers star Dyer could mean Ljungberg stays at Upton Park -
Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 9:29 AM on 04th August 2008
Kieron Dyer looks certain to be out of action until November after suffering
a serious problem in his comeback. The West Ham midfielder, who broke a leg
in a Carling Cup tie against Bristol City almost a year ago, was originally
hoping to feature against his former club Ipswich in the friendly at Portman
Road.
However, Dyer had to scrap those plans after he felt pain around the site of
the original fracture during training last week and a CT scan revealed a
hairline crack. He will now follow a six-week rehabilitation plan and is
unlikely to be ready to return for at least three months. The problems may
affect the future of Freddie Ljungberg. The former Arsenal midfielder looked
certain to leave as part of the club's squad-trimming moves, but Dyer's
prolonged absence could now change things.
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West Ham agree loan deal for Shakhtar Donestsk goalkeeper Lastuvka
Czech looking forward to Upton Park switch
Staff and agencies guardian.co.uk, Monday August 4 2008
West Ham have signed the Czech goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka on a season-long loan
from Shakhtar Donetsk, according to the Ukrainian club.
The 26-year-old former Under-21 international successfully completed a
medical over the weekend and will provide back-up to current Hammers No1
Robert Green. "I'm glad it's turned out like this," Lastuvka told CTK. "I am
looking forward to playing for West Ham and I'll do my best to repay their
faith in me."
Lastuvka spent the 2006-07 campaign on loan at Fulham where he played 12
games for the Cottagers. After failing to impress the then-Fulham manager
Lawrie Sanchez, Lastuvka returned to Shakhtar where he was once again loaned
out, this time to Bochum in Germany's Bundesliga.
Lastuvka is relishing the opportunity of working with fellow countryman
Ludek Miklosko, who is the goalkeeper coach at Upton Park. "It's a big
plus," he added. "I think the co-operation with him can help me a lot in
improving my skills."
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West Ham retire Bobby Moore's No.6 shirt 50 years after his Hammers debut -
Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 10:44 AM on 04th August 2008
West Ham are to retire the No.6 shirt worn by Bobby Moore. England's World
Cup-winning captain made his West Ham debut almost 50 years ago, and two
shirts bearing that number will be handed over to Moore's widow Stephanie
during next Saturday's friendly against Villarreal at Upton Park. The shirts
will be auctioned, with the proceeds going to the Bobby Moore Fund for
Cancer Research UK. Moore died of bowel cancer aged 51.
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Man City To Swoop For Hammers Ashton As Santa Cruz Alternative? -
premiershiplatest.com
Submitted by Jake Briggs on Mon, 2008-08-04 11:37.
New Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is considering making an offer of
£15million for England International Dean Ashton at West Ham United if he
fails to land Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz from former club Blackburn
Rovers, according to reports. Hughes had been linked with a £12million move
for former charge Santa Cruz over the weekend, with Tottenham Hotspur,
Arsenal and Manchester United also linked to the South American. However,
Rovers manager Paul Ince is reluctant to let the former Bayern Munich
striker leave Ewood Park this summer. This has led Hughes to turn his
attention to 24-year-old Ashton, who he sees as the ideal target man for
City as he prepares for his first season in charge at the Eastlands Stadium.
Ashton had been linked with a move away from Upton Park this summer, with
reports that a pay squeeze was to be introduced at the East London club.
Hammers manager Alan Curbishley will not let Ashton leave without a fight
though as he sees the forward as a key part of what he is trying to build at
West Ham.
The former Norwich player has just recently signed a new long-term deal with
the Irons, but an offer of £15million from City could test both Curbishley's
and the board's resolve at Upton Park.
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Dyer news stuns Hammers - 4thgame.com
Monday 04 Aug 2008
Reports suggest West Ham United midfielder Kieron Dyer has suffered a
setback in his recovery from a broken leg that could keep him out of action
until November. The former Ipswich Town and Newcastle United star suffered
the injury almost one year ago in a Carling Cup tie against Bristol City.
KIERON DYER He had been hoping to make his comeback in the pre-season
friendly against Ipswich but felt some pain in training last week close to
where the original fracture occurred. Get bang up to date with all the
latest transfer rumours and tell us your own gossip right here... Dyer will
follow a six-week rehabilitation plan and is unlikely to be ready for a
first-team recall until November at the earliest. Meanwhile, Shakhtar
Donetsk have announced that the Hammers have signed Jan Lastuvka on a
season-long loan deal. The 26-year-old, who spent the 2006-07 campaign on
loan at Fulham, played 25 games during a season-long loan switch to Bochum
last term. The former Banik Ostrava shot-stopper Lastuvka made 12
appearances during his time at Craven Cottage.
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Ludo backs Czech mate Lastuvka to shine - Echo
11:02am Monday 4th August 2008
By Rob Pritchard »
LUDEK Miklosko believes goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka is the perfect man to fill
the role as West Ham United's number-two stopper this season. Lastuvka's
season-long loan move to the Hammers from Shakhtar Donetsk was confirmed by
the Ukrainian club on Monday morning. Like Miklosko, the 26-year-old hails
from the Czech Republic, and the former Irons hero believes his countryman
will prove a reliable back-up to Robert Green. "He's a decent goalkeeper. At
this moment, we need a number-two goalkeeper and Jan knows he is coming as a
number-two," Miklosko told the Echo. "He wanted to train with me and knows
that he will improve and that, then, he may have a better chance to go
somewhere else and be a number-one. "We'll see how he's doing, but it will
be good to have another experienced goalkeeper around and I'm looking
forward to working with him."
Lastuvka has found his opportunities at Shakhtar limited in recent years due
to the Ukrainian League's limitations on foreign players. As a result, he
has spent the past two seasons out on loan, first enduring a difficult spell
at Fulham, then heading to Bundesliga club Vfl Bochum last term. But
Miklosko is confident Lastuvka has overcome his difficulties and will prove
a shrewd acquisition. "I know Jan very well and he had some problems when he
was at Fulham. He was on his own because, for some reason, his family didn't
come with him to England," he added. "He couldn't concentrate on his
football properly, but they will come with him this time. I know him and I
trust him and he will be good for us."
Lastuvka turned down offers from Czech sides Banik Ostrava, where he made
his name, and Sparta Prague and Austrian outfit Red Bull Salzburg to return
to London. And the player himself is delighted to be heading for Upton Park.
"I hope that I will get into good shape overall and will be as helpful to
the team as possible. So far I have had only good feelings," he told Czech
newspaper CTK.
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West Ham Players are concerned! - Cmon Yu Irons
Its just come to our attention that a majority of the squad are unhappy with
the way the club is looking financially. Bobby Zamora, a player that
believed he would have his contract renewed and was let down at the last
moment then sold to Fulham, spoke out to the media about what could only be
changing room gossip. He admits that the players at West Ham are concerned
about the financial situation at Upton Park. Robert Green whom we all know
is unhappy at the moment not being offered a pay rise is obviously one of
the players, and other players are also concerned about their future. As a
fan and i also know of many other fans who are also concerned into why we
really are not doing much in the Summer transfer window, Buying Berhami is
fantastic, and getting Lastuvka on loan is great to, but we desperately
need a winger and maybe a big name striker. We also have to be ready for
what could be a massive payout to Sheff Utd in September which could be as
high as £40m. Being unsettled as a player will no doubt show on the field,
lets just hope somebody at West ham sorts this problem out and reassures the
boys their future is safe and bright.
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Hammers Czech out keeper Lastuvka - then sign him - Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 10:55 AM on 04th August 2008
West Ham have signed Czech goalkeeper Jan Lastuvka on a season-long loan
from Shakhtar Donetsk, according to the Ukrainian club. Lastuvka, 26,
successfully completed a medical over the weekend and will provide back-up
to Hammers number one Robert Green. The former under-21 international spent
2006-07 on loan at Fulham where he played 12 games for the Cottagers. After
returning to Shakhtar when new Fulham boss Lawrie Sanchez refused to make
his move permanent last summer, he enjoyed a successful year with Bochum in
Germany's Bundesliga.
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Hughes To Offer £15M For Ashton? - Goal.com
Manchester City are said to be preparing a late bid for West Ham star Dean
Ashton. According to reports over the weekend, City boss Mark Hughes has
now focused his intention on Aston as he looks to quickly build a side
capable of competing for a Champions League place this season. The England
international has been tipped for a switch this summer, amid rumours of a
pay-squeeze at Upton Park, and the speculation surrounding him has refused
to die even after he recently signed a new long-term deal with the east
London club. Ashton, 24, impressed for the Hammers last term, netting ten
strikes in the Premier League campaign. He had suffered an injury-disrupted
West Ham career up to then, but subsequently earned an England cap, coming
last June in Trinidad and Tobago. West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has made it
clear that he sees Ashton as a key-member of the side and has always been
adamant that he will not be sold, though a £15million bid that City are
reported to be preparing would surely give him and the club pause for
thought.
Derek Wanner, Goal.com
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HATCHET MAN: Just when will Kieron Dyer make his annual appearance for West
Ham? - Mail Online
Last updated at 10:02 AM on 04th August 2008
West Ham must be as proud as punch about the business acumen they showed in
signing Kieron Dyer. They paid £6million to Newcastle for a player who has
taken so many bad knocks that he could soon be mistaken for a crash test
dummy, and the deal looks worse than ever today. The midfielder is facing
another three month lay-off after spending most of his year-long West Ham
career trying to come back from breaking his right leg in two places. He was
on the verge of a return last week but is thought to have suffered a stress
fracture in the same leg and, as sad as it is for Dyer, the club are rightly
embarrassed about it. They tried to bury the news two-thirds of the way down
a story on their website about Dean Ashton maybe playing in a friendly.
Apparently, 'there is no desire to rush him back' from West Ham. Hatchet
Man suspects that if he adds to his three appearances at all it will feel
like a bonus.
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Zamora questions Hammers' policy - Setanta
by Robin Hackett, 04 August 2008
Fulham striker Bobby Zamora has claimed West Ham went back on a written
promise of a new contract and believes some of the squad is 'unsettled' by
the club's financial policy. Zamora, who joined Fulham last month, is a West
Ham supporter and admits he would have loved to have stayed at Upton Park,
but he believes the club is now putting business first. And, after
goalkeeper Robert Green recently spoke out against the club after being
denied a pay rise, Zamora feels some players are concerned about their
futures. "West Ham is my club and the team I always wanted to play for, but
football is a business now," he told the Daily Mirror. "I had it in writing
that they would give me a contract but it didn't happen. The club
unfortunately changed their minds. "They accepted the bid and that sort of
says a lot and I was no longer needed. "It must be a little unsettling for a
few of the lads there and I know Rob Green has come out and said something
similar. "It was hard for me to leave as I am a West Ham fan and love the
club dearly because I had some brilliant years there. "I was sad to leave
but this is another chapter in my career and hopefully I will get a chance
to play a lot more football here."
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Man City, West Ham battle for Liverpool's Benayoun
tribalfooball.com - August 04, 2008
Clubs are circling for Liverpool midfielder Yossi Benayoun. The Times says
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez may be forced to cash in on Benayoun as he seeks
to raise funds to sign Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry. Manchester City
have already bid £6 million for Benayoun and West Ham United, the Israeli's
former club, and AS Roma are also interested.
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I'll spend again, Curbishley tells Echo - Echo
9:20am Monday 4th August 2008
By Rob Pritchard »
ALAN Curbishley is planning to open his chequebook at least one more time
before the summer transfer window closes. The West Ham United manager has
made just one high-profile signing since the end of last season, bringing in
£5million Switzerland international Valon Behrami from Lazio. But with the
injury crisis that blighted the Irons' last campaign showing no signs of
abating, Curbishley has told the Echo he plans to delve back into the
transfer market, with a striker and left-back top of his list of targets.
"There's one or two other areas that I've got to start considering - we've
got about a month until the window closes," he revealed. "It's because of
injuries. We've got little niggles and as we get closer to the start of the
season and the window closing, I think you'll see a lot of clubs reacting to
different issues. "We'll be no different to that."
Up front, Curbishley has injury worries over Dean Ashton, Carlton Cole and
Craig Bellamy while George McCartney, the club's only senior left-back, is
struggling with hamstring trouble. Forward Kieron Dyer will be out for at
least another six weeks suffered another setback in his comeback from the
double leg fracture he sustained at Bristol Rovers a year ago. Meanwhile,
defenders James Collins (knee), Danny Gabbidon (stomach) and Jon Spector
(hip) will all miss the opening weeks of the new Premier League season.
Young centre back James Tomkins (leg) and winger Luis Boa Morte (blisters)
are also struggling, while Nigel Quashie (foot) has begun a new course of
specialist treatment to cure an injury he suffered in the 4-3 defeat to
Tottenham Hotspur 17 months ago today.
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