Jordan Spence has another international date this Tuesday and is loving life
at West Ham United
14.04.2008
Jordan Spence's rise through the ranks takes another step forward this week
as he looks set to captain England Under-18s against Austria on Tuesday
night.
The cultured centre-back is no stranger to Young Lions duty. He has
regularly worn the armband for his country at U16 and U17 level and already
figured for the U19s at the age of just 17. The Chigwell School old boy, who
is as comfortable talking off the pitch as he is performing on it, is
determined to succeed with both club and country while also understanding
there is still plenty of hard work to be done.
This season, skipper Spence played an integral role for Tony Carr's Under-18
side as they pushed the ever-strong Arsenal all the way in their league. He
has also shown good versatility at full-back with the reserves, before
settling down of late in his more usual role for Kevin Keen's second string
with James Tomkins' promotion to the senior set-up. That culminated earlier
this month in Spence finding himself up against proven international striker
Claudio Pizarro when the reserves travelled to west London to take on
Chelsea.
"It was a fantastic experience to play against some really top class
opponents who were not only good Premier League players but world class as
well," Spence said. "You have to conduct yourself the same regardless of who
you are playing against and then against someone like Pizarro you can really
see how you fare." It was to prove a testing encounter as Chelsea had
several first-teamers up against an inexperienced United side but the
lessons learned in the 3-0 defeat will hold Spence in good stead as will the
advice he gets from the likes of Anton Ferdinand.
Keen's team fared better on their last outing, a 2-1 home defeat of an
extremely youthful Derby County but for Spence the approach was the same.
"Even if you find yourself playing against not as well known opposition -
you still want to say you have come out on top and done the best you can. We
had a situation where we had quite a few young players in and I found myself
as one of the more senior players. We always need to have the same attitude
whoever we are playing. We need to be professional and just play the best we
can."
It has been a busy schedule of late, as shown by the trip to Hartlepool to
take on Austria in that U18 friendly on Tuesday night, but Spence would not
have it any other way. "For the last few months it has been two games a
week. I didn't play as many reserve games earlier on in the season as I am
now but we are managing it well and it is enjoyable. It is brilliant to do
well on both fronts with the youth team and the reserves."
Spence is used to success. Having led England to runners-up spot in the 2007
UEFA European U17 Championship, he followed that up last summer with a
fantastic run to the 2007 FIFA U17 World Cup quarter-finals in South Korea .
Along the way, Spence scored a dramatic last-gasp winner against Brazil -
the first time at any level England have ever beaten the South American
giants in a competitive encounter.
"With England, it is fingers crossed for Austria that it will all go well.
It is the same age group. It is a slightly more experimental squad because
it is not a competitive year [for the U18s]. Again we always look when we
join up to win and to come away with a positive result so we can look to the
Under-19s and possibly stake a claim to get in to that squad."
Spence particularly has one eye on establishing himself in the U19 squad
that will take part in a four-nation UEFA qualifying tournament in May in
Belarus - especially as Tomkins, Junior Stanislas and Freddie Sears are all
in the frame to be involved. "I will go with the U18s and certainly do my
best to make a good impression," Spence added. "We will see where it leads
me. That is their age group and I would expect all three of them to be
staking a very big claim to be involved and if I can throw my name in the
hat I will obviously be more than happy."
Spence is thrilled to see his colleagues breaking through, describing it as
"fantastic" and telling how everyone at the Academy "shares in their
success". He added: "The desire is there to make the first team and the fact
that the opportunity is there makes you even hungrier and gives you that
desire to push on. That is the ambition to play first-team football anywhere
and then to play first-team football at what is a huge and massive club with
a massive following. It would just be awesome but hopefully that is all to
come."
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Parker speaks on WHUTV - WHUFC
Scott Parker stressed the players need to rally around as he reflected on
the weekend setback at Bolton
14.04.2008
Scott Parker has spoken of the determination to "turn things around" after
the weekend disappointment at Bolton Wanderers.
Speaking to WHUTV, the England midfielder said there was a need to stick
together and look for a positive performance and result at home to Derby
County this weekend and for the three final games after that. He said:
"Results haven't been good, albeit at times the performances have been OK,"
he said. "The results haven't not been there and we are as eager to change
that as much as anyone.
"I can assure everyone who is involved in and around the club that we are
trying our hardest, trying our best to turn things around. It has just come
at a bad time for us. We are having a bit of a blip but we just need to
rally round and try and pick up a result for the next game." The loss at the
Reebok Stadium was fit-again Parker's sixth consecutive appearance and he
nearly got his second goal of the season with a fine shot late in the game -
but it was a case of so near yet so far.
[The lack of opportunities on Saturday] was the problem," he said. "They are
a big side and probably our main chances came from long distance. It was one
of those games where it was always about the second ball and at times we
were second best really." Reflecting on where things did not go to plan as a
whole, Parker gave an honest assessment of the match and had praise for the
rearguard display.
"It was a tough game ... we knew they were fighting for their lives and
especially in the first half we struggled to adapt to that. The second half,
they got a goal early on and we got back into the game but it was never
really enough. It was just a disappointing day. I just think they beat us up
a bit. First half they certainly did that, they put a lot of balls in the
air, they went from back to front really quickly and we struggled at times.
I thought the defenders did very well but at times we just didn't have
enough going forward."
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Doctoring the house - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 14th April 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's medical team is set to be given an overhaul, according to
reports. The team responsible for treatment and prevention of injuries have
come under heavy fire in recent months following a series of injuries that
have blighted the United squad all season. Tonight an unnamed spokesman told
the Evening Standard that the club's board have ordered changes as the
current season draws to a close. "That side of the club is already being
looked at," said the spokesman, before adding: "We have to make sure it
doesn't happen again." Meanwhile tomorrow's Times adds that the club have
ordered a team from London's Roehampton University to investigate the club's
medical facilities and rehabilitation programmes. West Ham's extensive
injury list has been in double figures for much of the season. Virtually a
week has gone by without another new name being added to the list. The
latest casualty - Anton Ferdinand - limped off after less than a minute into
Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Bolton with a hamstring injury. It is these
preventable strains that has so concerned the United board - and supporters.
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Anton: season over - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 14th April 2008
By: Staff Writer
Anton Ferdinand's season is almost certainly over after the injury sustained
at Bolton on Saturday was confirmed as a hamstring tear. The centre half
joins fellow central defenders Calum Davenport (neck), James Collins
(cruciate) and Danny Gabbidon (groin) on the long-term injured list after
pulling up in the first minute of Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Bolton. Alan
Curbishley confirmed the news in his post-match press conference, saying:
"Anton's injury was a bit of a blow for us so early in the game, but perhaps
synonomous with the season we've had so far. "We've been a bit patched up
for most of the season. But we've just got to get on with it, nothing's
going to change." James Tomkins will now battle with Jon Spector to play
alongside Matthew Upson - assuming he remains fit - at home against Derby
this weekend.
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On yer Jack - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 13th April 2008
By: Staff Writer
Alan Curbishley has explained his decision to substitute Jack Collinson just
50 minutes into his full first team debut on Saturday. Collison - who made
his debut in the 2-0 defeat at Arsenal earlier in the season - has started
as part of a three-man midfield at the Reebok Stadium. But after being
overrun by Bolton - and with the Hammers a goal behind - Alan Curbishley
opted to pull the youngster in favour of Carlton Cole just five minutes into
the second half.
"I do feel sorry for him," said Curbishley. "We came here to be as strong as
we can and I felt if we matched up in the middle of the park and brought
Jack in, it would give him a chance to express himself. "But we never got a
chance for 45 minutes. As soon as the goal went in I just felt I had to
change it. It was disappointing for him but he'll get over it. "I had a
decision to make. Did I put Tomkins on straight [away]? But I felt that with
Jack out there as well to start with it was a little bit difficult. I knew
that Freddie [Sears] might be coming on at some stage [too]."
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The goal changed it a little bit ... - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 12th April 2008
By: Staff Writer
Alan Curbishley states the obvious as he put a brave face on a third
consecutive Premier League defeat.
"You come here, you know what to expect. With him [Ferdinand] going off we
had to reshuffle and I think Bolton put a terrific effort in, in the first
half. I've probably not seen a team work so hard; they put us under an awful
lot of pressure.
You come to Bolton and know what to expect - everyone says the same thing
but it's so difficult to deal with especially when they're 'at it' like they
were first half. That was probably vintage Bolton, if you like - the way
they set about it. We couldn't cope.
We came here with a big strong side, hoping to get through that because we
knew it was coming. Unfortunately we couldn't - not for 46 minutes, anyway.
The goal they got was a typical Bolton goal. What you do want is lots of
protection. There's bodies going in there, lots of pressure being put on
people and the keeper - and they get their goal. But they deserved the
result.
I think the goal changed it a little bit - they sat back and wondered what
to do. They'd got themselves in front and it was so vital. We had a couple
of efforts and started playing a little bit better but the keeper made some
decent saves. They've got their points and they're still in there with a
chance of getting themseleves out of it.
They put lots of balls in there. Nolan gets himself around the keeper and
barges him, or touches him - there's a bit of confusion - and we've not
cleared it. I think if you look over the last cuple of seasons that's
probably a typical Bolton goal. We've not dealt with it; disappointing for
us.
It's been a difficult afternoon for us. We may have got ourselves out of it
- we had a couple of efforts and the keeper's done well - but overall
probably not deserved to much."
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Curbs In! - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 14th April 2008
By: Staff Writer
As the debate on Alan Curbishley's future rages, three KUMB.com members give
their reasons why he should remain in charge next season.
Curbs IN! - says Gazzaloz1
The jury is still out on Alan Curbishley after his first full season in
charge but he deserves another term.
Most people would have taken a mid-table finish in August after what we
endured last time round. But very few, if any, will accept the insipid
football that has been served up at Upton Park these last nine months.
I can't remember coming away disappointed from so many games in one season
since Roeder was here.
The problem for me is that Curbishley's purchases over the summer were all
made with the aim of building a counter-attacking side, one that can
withstand pressure and then hit teams on the break with pace. The early
performances at Reading and Birmingham were a perfcet example.
Bellamy, Faubert and Dyer were the speed machines brought in to thrive on
the ammunition provided by Parker and Mullins or Noble with Ashton as the
forward linchpin to hold the ball up for them. This pace and power was meant
to replace the creativity we lost when Tevez and Benayoun departed.
But injury has robbed him of his replacements, in fact most of his squad.
With the exception of Green and Wright I can't think of a senior member of
the squad who hasn't been injured at some point. The manager has been left
to construct a plan B on the hoof but with an ever-changing first eleven it
has been impossible to achieve any consistency.
For most of the season the defence has been reliable but further forward the
ingenuity is missing and we have been forced to watch an endless parade of
long balls delivered by Green or Ferdinand (or whoever else is guesting at
centre back) punting the ball hopefully up to whoever is guesting at centre
forward.
This has meant the ball has kept coming back because teams find it easy to
deal with us. They crowd out the forwards and defend the second ball. When
we do try and work the ball through midfield it is moved too slowly and they
are easily closed down. The ball has to go backwards and is then punted
forward and we give it away all over again.
It is easy to lay the blame at 'injury prone' purchases or the back room
staff but all of the signings passed medicals and if there is a problem
within the set-up we have to trust Nani to identify and correct it.
Hopefully Curbishley will have a fuller squad plus the benefit of Nani's
summer targets and a chance to pick his first eleven next term. He must be
judged on the success of that. He has earned the right for engineering the
greatest ever relegation escape trick in 2006/07.
Whatever anyone thinks about this season, no one can take that away from
him.
Curbs IN! - says The Old Mile End
April 2008 and our Premiership safety has been assured since February thanks
to the points tally achieved from six wins on the road. Considering that we
avoided relegation on the last day of the previous season and we have the
largest injury list of any Premier League club, we have done remarkably
well. Incredibly, we are discussing the tenure of the manager.
A debate has been raging for some time now on KUMB.com on this issue. Most
recently a valid question was asked: if not Curbs, then who? This, I feel,
is the key point to the debate. The reality is that there is no one hiding
out there in the long grass who would reasonably come to West Ham right now
and do better than Curbishley has.
Old favourites arise like Harry Redknapp. But does anyone seriously believe
he would give up an FA Cup final and Europe with Portsmouth to finish the
season at mid-table West Ham? This is relevant, because we are talking about
sacking the manager – right here, right now. Names are thrown in such as
Mourinho (contracted not to manage in the Premier League for some time),
Bilic, and a few other Europeans who most unlikely want to ply their trade
here at the expense of their reputation.
Bilic probably emerges as favourite – especially as he spent time here as a
player – a mercenary one at that. Tenure under Bilic is likely to be short
at the best. Success or failure, he'll be gone on both counts. Curbishley's
past however, suggests he's in it for the long term.
And what is wrong with that? The major complaints are threefold – the style
of play, the injury list and the ability to take us to 'the next level'. The
latter of this amuses me. We already are in front of the next level. After
the miracle escape of last season, surviving would be the next level up.
Followed by mid table safety (where we are now), next would be consistent
top ten finishing. Then challenging for Europe on a regular basis.
Personally I don't think any of that is beyond an experienced manager with
good financial backing of his board, knowledge of his club and the ability
of his players. Compare us with the two clubs promoted in 2005 and you will
find the relevance of these levels. We haven't done too badly - have we?
As to the other complaints – they seem to go hand in hand. This season's
style of play has been forced upon us due to the injury list. Despite this,
we have achieved a high degree of successful results – and yes, we have over
achieved. What is wrong with that? There have been several glimpses of a
fast counter attacking style largely developed away from home, utilising the
attributes of Bellamy. These were stifled by injury. The only other player
likely to replicate this style is Sears – a fantastic young prospect who
needs breaking-in in
the exact way he is doing it so far.
Are the injuries Curbishley's fault? A large proportion of posters seem to
think so. Certainly our training techniques, facilities and medical staff
need to be reviewed. We must adopt a professional approach in this regard
and seek an independent audit. The amount of soft tissue injury is certainly
a cause for concern. I would say that Curbs has been let down by some of the
backroom staff and needs to take the appropriate action as soon as he
legally can – if it is his domain to do so.
I have been supporting this club for 45 years. I have seen many highs and
lows. I sincerely believe that this is a time to show patience. The league
position this season has been paramount in the club's future. I am satisfied
with it. We are fortunate to have an experienced managerial partnership that
came from our own ilk.
They should be given time, like those before them, to re-establish the West
Ham brand. There are plenty of youngsters coming through; we could be on the
verge of another great era at West Ham. Ask yourself the question – how long
will I support this club? If you answer is for life – then surely Curbishley
deserves a couple of years of it.
Support: to keep from falling, to carry the weight of, to give strength, to
encourage, to endure, to tolerate, to bear out.
Do it. Give it.
Curbs IN! - says ClaretDave
Football is perhaps unique in having a single solution to dealing with
underperformance – sack the manager. Underperforming players get dropped, or
paid for doing nothing. It is very rare for a coach, physio, or any other
member of staff to be replaced. Yet the Premiership is littered with clubs
who, at the first sign of trouble, think that changing the man in the suit
is the only solution.
There are times when this policy is a success (for example, Moyes to
Everton) but usually, things get worse. This season, Derby have got worse
under Jewell, Fulham remained static under Hodgson; Toon, until the last
couple of weeks, been a laughing stock under Keegan; Wigan at best a mild
improvement under Bruce and for all the glory of the fizzy pop cup, the
Spurs remain a laughing stock under Ramos, destined for (at very best) tenth
place in the league – after spending the thick end of £50 million on the
squad.
This perhaps makes Curbishley's first part season at West Ham all the
remarkable. The problems with last year are well known – huge problems on
the pitch, even bigger problems off. However, for whatever reason, from
being ten points from safety (a situation far worse than, say, Fulham or
Bolton today) Curbs' side stayed up last season, winning at Old Trafford on
the final day. Luck played a part, individuals played a part. But a huge
slice of the credit must go to Curbishley.
This season's key problem has been injury – whatever criticism that can be
laid at the door of our medical staff, and indeed the often used argument of
signing 'injury prone players' – we have been terribly jinxed this season.
Not only did signings develop new strains (think Parker and Bellamy), others
missed most of the season due to freak occurrences (Dyer, Faubert) and
others picked up knocks at crucial times (most importantly Upson). At
present, there are fourteen players on the treatment table, including the
FIVE first choice central defenders.
Any team is going to struggle against such odds.
Injuries have not been the only problem. It is to Curbs' great credit that
more off-field upheaval, including the dismissal of Eggert Magnusson, the
lack of a brass farthing to spend in the January transfer window and the
laughable distraction of a pathetic Yorkshire-based outfit's threatened
litigation have been barely noticed this season.
However, in spite of all the above, West Ham have been in the top half of
the table for almost the entire season. We reached 40 points in record time
– a milestone that has been most supporters' target throughout their lives.
We have had some truly memorable wins this season.
It is of course not all good – at times the football has been scrappy, and
one or two players on their way out perhaps get the nod over a number of
extremely promising youngsters coming through. But all considered, Curbs has
done a great job this season, and deserves a chance to build on the
foundations next year: with the real England's number one in goal, a very
resilient defence with Tomkins and Gabbidon fighting for a place, a decent
run from a Faubert/Parker/Noble/Ljungberg midfield with Dyer in support and
(finally) a consistent run for the Ashton/Bellamy front pair, and regular
goals from the bench via Sears.
Still to be convinced? Would we have done better with, say, Jewell? Jol? How
well has Eriksson really done at Citeh? We could take a punt on an unknown
with no experience of the Premiership – but would we be better off?
Without the guarantee of a proven success in the Premiership (and only
Ferguson, Wenger and Redknapp can claim this title) Curbs is very much the
man for West Ham.
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Ferdinand to miss run-in - SSN
Hammer blow for defender
Last updated: 14th April 2008
West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand looks set to miss the rest of the season
through injury. Ferdinand was forced to limp off after just two minutes of
Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Bolton with a hamstring problem. The talented
defender is set to undergo scans on the injury to find out the full extent
of the strain. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley expects to be without Ferdinand
for the rest of the campaign. "It looks like Anton will be out for the rest
of the season," Curbishley told The Daily Mirror. His injury just sums up
the kind of problems we have been having. "It was a blow for us so early in
the game.
"But we just have to get on with it." Brighter news on the injury front for
Curbishley is the expected return to training for Freddie Ljungberg later
this month.
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West Ham seek support over Carlos Tevez affair - The Times
Controversy: The role Tevez played in helping West Ham to avoid relegation
from the Premier League last season is still very much under the microscope
Gary Jacob
West Ham United have sent an extraordinary letter to other Barclays Premier
League clubs canvassing support in their ongoing legal battle with Sheffield
United. They have asked effectively for clubs to admit that they were
unaware of the existence of a league rule that prevents a third party from
influencing the performance of a player.
West Ham would like the information as they prepare evidence to defend
separate claims from Sheffield United and Kia Joorabchian. The Yorkshire
club believe that they were relegated as a result of West Ham's admitted
breach of Premier League rules in the transfer of Carlos Tévez last season.
Sheffield United estimate that being relegated to the Coca-Cola Championship
cost them £30 million. The FA's arbitration proceedings into the case will
be heard in June.
Joorabchian, Tévez's representative, has begun a case in the High Court,
claiming that he is owed £7.1 million relating to the transfer of the
Argentina forward, who helped to rescue West Ham from relegation last
season.
It is understood that West Ham want the evidence to prove that they did not
act maliciously when they entered into a third-party agreement to sign Tévez
at the start of last season because many clubs were either not aware of the
rules or did not believe that they referred to this situation. One problem
with the argument could be that they pleaded guilty to entering into such an
agreement, thereby breaching rule U18, for which they were fined £2.5
million last year.
West Ham hope to attract support from clubs who fear that victory for
Sheffield United will open the floodgates for other compensation claims.
Peter Barnes, the West Ham secretary, sent an e-mail to his counterparts on
April 10 asking for assistance.
"Our legal team have asked me to see whether you would be prepared to assist
with a written witness statement which they can help you to prepare to aid
our case," Barnes wrote. "The question is: 'When you were involved in
transfers in Season 2006-7 did any of you other than referring to the
Sections K, L and M ever consult or have need to refer to Rule U18 or indeed
ever really know of its existence?' I confirm if you agree to assist it
would only involve a written statement and not an appearance at court."
The Tévez wrangle overshadowed the achievement of avoiding relegation last
season, but it has been injuries at Upton Park that have blighted the
present campaign. As many as a dozen players have been unavailable at times
this season, prompting West Ham to begin an investigation, led by Roehampton
University, into the medical set-up. They will consider the types of
injuries and why rehabilitations are taking longer than normal.
Fredrik Ljungberg is, however, close to a return after missing the past two
matches. The midfield player suffered an inflamed nerve, not a hamstring
injury as had been feared, in the 2-1 defeat away to Sunderland last month.
The Sweden player is expected to return to the squad for the match against
Derby County on Saturday.
"The injury was a little weird, especially since it was quite painful," he
said. "It was quite hard for the medical team to diagnose, but I've been
told it was an inflamed nerve. Luckily, the hamstring is not injured, which
is great.
"The extra work I put in this winter, in the gym, is the reason I am in good
shape. Despite being in some pain due to a nerve-root inflammation, the
hamstring itself is fine and there is no sign of a pull or strain."
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Hammers In Crock Probe - The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
WEST HAM have launched a major probe into their crippling injury problems.
Chairman Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson and boss Alan Curbishley have ordered the
inquiry as defender Anton Ferdinand joined their astonishing sicklist at
Bolton on Saturday. Every aspect of training and treatment will be
scrutinised in a bid to halt the crisis which has ravaged the squad.
Gudmundsson is growing fed-up of the catalogue of injuries and has demanded
a full report by the end of the campaign. A West Ham spokesman said: "Some
of the injuries have been unavoidable. But the board and manager want to
make sure the club does not have a repeat next season. Every avenue will be
explored." Craig Bellamy, Matt Upson, Scott Parker, Julian Faubert, Danny
Gabbidon, Freddie Ljungberg and now Ferdinand have all been hit by long-term
injuries.
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West Ham chairman Gudmundsson fed-up with injuries
tribalfooball.com - April 14, 2008
West Ham United chairman Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson is fed-up with the horror
injury list they've suffered this season. Gudmundsson and boss Alan
Curbishley have ordered the inquiry as defender Anton Ferdinand joined their
astonishing sicklist at Bolton on Saturday. Every aspect of training and
treatment will be scrutinised in a bid to halt the crisis which has ravaged
the squad. Gudmundsson is growing fed-up of the catalogue of injuries and
has demanded a full report by the end of the campaign. A West Ham spokesman
said: "Some of the injuries have been unavoidable. But the board and manager
want to make sure the club does not have a repeat next season. Every avenue
will be explored." Craig Bellamy, Matt Upson, Scott Parker, Julian Faubert,
Danny Gabbidon, Freddie Ljungberg and now Ferdinand have all been hit by
long-term injuries.
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Spence targets West Ham breakthrough
tribalfootball.com - April 14, 2008
England U18 captain Jordan Spence hopes he can be the next West Ham United
youngster to crack the first team. Spence, 17, told whufc.com: "The desire
is there to make the first team and the fact that the opportunity is there
makes you even hungrier and gives you that desire to push on. That is the
ambition to play first-team football anywhere and then to play first-team
football at what is a huge and massive club with a massive following. It
would just be awesome but hopefully that is all to come."
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West Ham ready to overhaul fitness staff
tribalfootball.com - April 14, 2008
West Ham are set to make major changes in the rehabilitation and treatment
of injured players following their horrendous casualty list this season.
Defender Anton Ferdinand was the latest in a long line of injuries, having
to leave the field against Bolton after just two minutes with a hamstring
injury which is likely to end his season. The West Ham board are known to be
concerned not only by the length of the injury list, which has been in
double figures for much of the season, but more significantly by the amount
of time it has taken players to recover. "That side of the club is already
being looked at and we have to make sure it doesn't happen again," said a
spokesman.
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Poor football, even poorer attitude - Echo News
By Rob Pritchard
SINCE its formation way back in 1895, West Ham United have forged a
reputation as a football club that plays the game in the right way. Under
such legends as Ron Greenwood, John Lyall and Harry Redknapp, The Academy
became synonymous with slick, passing, attack-minded football. Well, I am
sorry, but Alan Curbishley is rapidly consigning that century of tradition
to the dustbin in favour of dire, long-ball, defensive football of the very
lowest order. On Saturday, Curbishley's free-falling Hammers went to the
Reebok Stadium and did an extremely bad impression of their hosts. While
both sides lumped long balls, throw-ins, corners and free-kicks into their
opponents' penalty areas with rare abandon, it was only relegation-haunted
Bolton who looked interested in using such direct tactics to their
advantage. While home striker Kevin Davies shrugged off the pain of a
dislocated finger to put in a heroic, man-of-the-match display, the
ineffective Dean Ashton simply stood and watched as Gary Cahill and Andy
O'Brien headed clear every thoughtless punt launched into the Trotters'
half. It was the contrasting performances of the two lone-forwards that
summed up the difference in this match. This was, remember, a Wanderers team
that had not tasted victory since February 2; who had scored just seven
goals in their previous 12 matches and whose fans organised pre-match
protests against beleaguered manager Gary Megson. Despite their poor recent
record, however, Megson's strugglers were the better, more effective, more
confident team in almost all departments. For all Curbishley's insistence
that his side has not packed up early for their summer holidays, anyone at
the Reebok would have seen compelling evidence that that is exactly the
case. Bolton wanted to win at all costs. West Ham simply didn't care.
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"Bolton beat us up" - Parker - Echo News
By Rob Pritchard
SCOTT Parker has admitted that Bolton "beat up" his West Ham side before
securing a vital 1-0 win at the Reebok Stadium on Saturday. Kevin Davies, a
thorn in the Irons' defensive sides all afternoon, scored a 46th minute goal
to keep the Trotters in touch with fourth-from-bottom Birmingham City. The
goal came as a result of a mix-up caused by Matthew Taylor's corner - one of
dozens of high balls pumped into the Hammers penalty area. And midfielder
Parker admitted the East Enders had failed to deal with Wanderers'
relentless aerial bombardment. "It was obviously a tough game and
disappointing," said the England international. "We came and knew that they
were fighting for their lives and, especially in the first half, I think we
struggled to adapt to that. "In the second half they got a goal early on and
we got back into it but it was never really enough so it was just a
disappointing day. "They beat us up a bit really. "In the first half they
put a lot of balls in in the air and went from back to front really quickly
and we struggled at times. "I think the defenders did really well but at
times we didn't really have enough going forward and ran out of ideas. "They
are a big side and our main chances came from long distance. It was one of
those games where it was about the second balls and at times we were second
best."
Parker and his team-mates will attempt to secure just their second win in
nine Premier League matches when Derby County arrive at Upton Park on
Saturday. And the former Charlton Athletic, Chelsea and Newcastle United man
is adamant that Alan Curbishley's men can put things right this weekend.
"Obviously we are struggling at present. Results have not been good, albeit
at times the performances have been okay, but the results have not been
there and we are as eager as anyone to change that," added the 27-year-old.
"I can assure everyone involved in and around the club that we're trying our
hardest and our best to try and turn things around. "It's come at a bad time
for us. We're having a bit of a blip but we've got to just rally around and
pick up a result from the next game."
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Ferdinand to miss season climax - Setanta
by Ben Blackmore, 14 April 2008
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley has confirmed he expects to be without Anton
Ferdinand for the rest of the season. Ferdinand lasted all of two minutes
before he was forced out of Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Bolton with a hamstring
problem. The injury seemed to sum up The Hammers' season, which was shackled
before it had even started by a plethora of injuries to key players.
Curbishley does hope to have Freddie Ljungberg back by the end of April, but
he admits Ferdinand has probably played his last game of the 2007/08
campaign. It looks like Anton will be out for the rest of the season,"
Curbishley confirmed in The Daily Mirror. "His injury sums up the kind of
problems we have been having. "It was a blow for us so early in the game.
But we just have to get on with it."
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West Ham look to boost medical facilites as Anton Ferdinand becomes the
latest player in the treatment room - Daily Mail
Last updated at 11:42am on 14th April 2008
West Ham are set to make major changes in the rehabilitation and treatment
of injured players following their horrendous casualty list this season.
Defender Anton Ferdinand was the latest in a long line of injuries, having
to leave the field against Bolton after just two minutes with a hamstring
injury which is likely to end his season. Manager Alan Curbishley was
forced into an instant change and his side went on to lose 1-0 to Bolton,
meaning they have won just once in their last eight games. The West Ham
board are known to be concerned not only by the length of the injury list,
which has been in double figures for much of the season, but more
significantly by the amount of time it has taken players to recover. 'That
side of the club is already being looked at and we have to make sure it
doesn't happen again,' said a spokesman.
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Mullins defends defensive tactics - Echo News
By Rob Pritchard
HAYDEN Mullins has defended West Ham's safety-first tactics at Bolton,
despite the Irons failure to score against the relegation-threatened
Trotters.
Mullins was one of five men strung across the midfield by manager Alan
Curbishley in a bid to stifle a Wanderers wide who had scored just seven
times in their previous 12 matches. Despite that record, the Irons boss
chose to employ striker Bobby Zamora, who is left-footed, on the right wing
instead of up front alongside lone forward Dean Ashton. The formation failed
to trouble Bolton for long periods of the first half, with the Hammers only
coming close to breaching the home defence following the introduction of
Carlton Cole and Freddie Sears. But Mullins defender the tactic, pointing
out that it had helped the Hammers secure memorable home wins over
Manchester United and Liverpool and away victories at Blackburn Rovers and
Fulham. "We were trying to get the ball to Bobby (Zamora) and Luis (Boa
Morte) out wide and trying to work off Deano," said the midfielder. "We've
done it for most of the season, and it has worked well for us. It was no
different today, but they were really desperate for the win and three points
was massive for them. "We knew they would hit us with everything, and as I
said one lapse on the corner let us down."
West Ham will hope to end a run of six defeats and only one victory in their
last eight Premier League matches when already-relegated Derby County, who
the Irons thrashed 5-0 at Pride Park in November, visit Upton Park.
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Curbs backs Collison to "get over" difficult debut - Echo News
By Rob Pritchard
WEST Ham manager Alan Curbishley has backed teenage midfielder Jack Collison
to "get over" the disappointment of enduring a difficult full debut in
Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Bolton Wanderers. The Wales Under-21 international
was thrown into the Hammers midfield at the Reebok Stadium after Mark Noble,
Freddie Ljungberg and Nobby Solano were all ruled out through injury. But
Academy product Collison, 19, struggled to come to terms with the pace of
the game and was replaced by Curbishley just four minutes after Kevin Davies
had given the Trotters a 46th minute lead. Afterwards, Curbishley admitted
the Irons' failure to cope with Bolton's physical approach had stopped the
reserve team captain from exerting his influence on the game. "I feel sorry
for Jack Collison because we came here to be as strong as we could and I
felt that if we matched them up in the middle of the park, Jack would get
his chance to express himself but we never got a chance for the first 45
minutes," said the manager. "As soon as the goal went in we had to change
it.
"It's disappointing for him but he'll get over it."
Collison, who was born in Watford and joined the club from Conference
National outfit Cambridge United in 2005, made his first team debut as a
substitute in the 2-0 defeat at Arsenal on New Year's Day. His emergence
also saw the youngster make his Wales Under-21 debut last Autumn. He has
since scored twice in three appearances for the country of his grandfather's
birth. Collison is one of five Academy graduates to play for Curbishley's
side this season, alongside Noble, Anton Ferdinand, Freddie Sears and
Basildon-based James Tomkins.
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Curbs tips Jack to bounce back - TeamTalk
West Ham boss Alan Curbishley is confident youngster Jack Collison will
bounce back from a poor start to his senior career. A long injury list
persuaded Curbishley to give 19-year-old Collison his first Premier League
start. The midfielder was somewhat overwhelmed and lasted 50 minutes before
being substituted. Curbishley said: "I feel sorry for Jack. I felt if we
matched up in the middle of the park we could give Jack a chance to express
himself but as soon as the goal went in I felt I had to change it. "It is
disappointing for him but he'll get over it."
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Hammers keep tabs on promising youngster
By Guardian-series
ALAN Curbishley is reported to be weighing up a bid for one of the hottest
young talents outside of the Premier League, writes Alex Sexton. The West
Ham boss has been handed glowing reports about the form of Barnet youngster
Albert Adomah and is considering making a bid to bring the 20-year-old to
Upton Park. The attacking midfielder has notched up five goals in 18
appearances this season at Underhill and has produced performances of a
consistently high standard for the League Two side. The Hammers would face
fierce competition for his signature, with Tottenham, Manchester City,
Bolton and Sunderland all ready to make summer offers for the young star.
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West Ham youngsters cap fine season with five-star display
By Guardian-series
West Ham U18s 5
Birmingham City U18s 0
(FA Premier Academy League - Group A)
WEST Ham U18s signed off the season in style with a five-goal mauling of
Birmingham City. But they narrowly missed out on the title. Triallist Ahmed
Abdulla scored twice while schoolboy Connor Okus, Ashley Miller and Tom
Harvey were also on target. The result at Little Heath ensured the Academy
team - who have been without Freddie Sears, James Tomkins and Jack Collison
who have all been with the first team in recent weeks - finished the season
on a high. Tony Carr's side ended the season with 51 points from 28 games.
Arsenal were crowned Group A champions after a 1-0 win at Bristol City and
will now go on to play Group B winners Aston Villa in the play-offs.
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West Ham's Ferdinand out for season
tribalfootball.com - April 14, 2008
West Ham United defender Anton Ferdinand is set to miss the rest of the
season with a hamstring injury. The Hammers' medical team will assess the
problem today but manager Alan Curbishley will not take any risks so close
to the end of the campaign. Ferdinand's injury means the Hammers currently
have 14 players in the treatment room. Alan Curbishley said: "It looks like
Anton will be out for the rest of the season. His injury just sums up the
kind of problems we have been having. It was a blow for us so early in the
game. But we just have to get on with it."
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West Ham boss Curbishley feels for Collison
tribalfootball.com - April 14, 2008
West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is backing Jack Collison to emerge from
a "difficult" full debut against Bolton on Saturday. "I feel sorry for Jack
Collison because we came here to be as strong as we could and I felt that if
we matched them up in the middle of the park, Jack would get his chance to
express himself but we never got a chance for the first 45 minutes," said
the manager. "As soon as the goal went in we had to change it. It's
disappointing for him but he'll get over it."
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Liverpool to outbid West Ham for Behrami
tribalfootball.com - April 14, 2008
Liverpool are set to outbid West Ham United for Lazio midfielder Valon
Behrami. The Daily Star Sunday says Behrami looks set to snub West Ham and
join Liverpool from Lazio in the summer for £8million.
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