WHUFC.com
An apologetic Victor Obinna has dedicated his FA Cup hat-trick to West Ham
United supporters
30.01.2011
Victor Obinna has dedicated his FA Cup hat-trick to the West Ham United
supporters he admitted he let down by being sent-off in the Carling Cup
semi-final against Birmingham City. The Nigeria star netted his first treble
in English football in Saturday's 3-2 fourth-round win over Nottingham
Forest, helping the Hammers to set-up a last-16 meeting with Burnley at the
Boleyn Ground. While Obinna was delighted to collect a matchball signed by
his jubilant team-mates, he conceded that he had let both them and the
club's fans down by being red-carded in the first-leg for kicking Birmingham
winger Sebastian Larsson. "I was very stupid to get suspended that way. It
happens in football but I apologise to the fans about that. I was mad with
myself after the game because I left my team-mates with ten men and I had to
miss three games. "I didn't know I was missing three games until later, so I
apologise to the fans and take full responsibility for that and it is
definitely something that will never happen again."
One thing Obinna will hoping happens again and again is netting a hat-trick
like the one he scored against Forest on Sunday. The 23-year-old was
naturally pleased with his personal haul, but also happy to help the team
make it through to the fifth round after an indifferent first-half display
against the Championship promotion hopefuls. "It was a fantastic game. We
didn't play very well in the first half. I think the first half was poor but
we were able to be level at half-time, which was very important. "I think
the second half was better than the first. We created so many chances to be
able to have won 5-2. Freddie Piquionne had some chances and their
goalkeeper was good. The third goal was a clear penalty. "I thought we
deserved to win the game, but the first half was really poor. It was a
fantastic game for the fans. After the disappointment against Birmingham in
the Carling Cup, everybody was down but I think we just have to move on
because that is football. "Most of all, we have to take our winning
mentality into the Premier League, which is our priority this season."
The highlight of Obinna's treble was his second goal, even if the forward
admitted he had not exactly meant to beat Forest goalkeeper with a swerving,
dipping 30-yard strike from near the right touchline. "Well, so many people
have asked me about the same thing! As a striker, the most important thing
is to put the ball in the back of the net. I was a bit lucky for that goal.
"It was a mix. I wanted to cross and I wanted to shoot but in the end it
went in so I was very happy. "In England it is the first hat-trick I have
scored by I scored one in Italy. I scored one in Serie B for Chievo Verona
against - I can't remember who we played, but it was a fantastic hat-trick!
They were good goals! "This [ball] is really nice. Maybe my Mum will be able
to keep it!"
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Gabbs delight at Wales return
WHUFC.com
Danny Gabbidon has spoken of his happiness at coming out of international
retirement
31.01.2011
Danny Gabbidon said his improved fitness record is the major reason for
coming out of international retirement for new Wales manager Gary Speed.
West Ham United's 31-year-old defender has been a member of all but three of
the club's 24 Barclays Premier League squads this season - a far cry from
the previous three campaigns, when he totalled just 20 league appearances
due to a succession of injuries. Gabbidon's fitness issues led to the
Cwmbran-born player to retire from international football in October last
year. However, following a long injury-free stint and a persuasive phone
call or two from Speed, the popular Hammer has decided to pull on the
Dragons' shirt again. Gabbidon could earn his 44th senior cap in his
country's opening Nations Cup clash against new club-mate Robbie Keane's
Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Tuesday 8 February. "It's nice to be back
involved. This season has gone a lot better for me - I've managed to play a
lot of games and proved my fitness to myself and that's why I've made the
decision to come back. "It made it a lot easier to come back after I got so
many games under my belt and proved myself that I can still play at the
highest level. That's the main reason I've decided to come back. "When
someone like Gary Speed rings you up, who is a respected man and someone
I've played alongside for Wales and is a really good guy, it boosts your
confidence too."
Gabbidon could line up alongside former Hammers team-mate and close friend
James Collins at the heart of the Welsh defence against the Irish, while the
likes of Arsenal's Aaron Ramsey, Celtic midfielder Joe Ledley and Nottingham
Forest full-back Chris Gunter have also been included. Unfortunately for
Wales, Tottenham Hotspur's Gareth Bale and former Hammer Craig Bellamy have
both been left out through injury. "We've got some really exciting players
coming through - everyone can see that - and now hopefully we'll get the
management side of things together and it will give us that extra push that
I think we need. "We're not that far off being a good team. The players are
there and I think now we've got a really good manager in place, we can push
on and get some better results."
Looking past their Aviva Stadium date with Keane's Ireland, Wales host
England in a 2012 UEFA European Championship qualifier at the Millennium
Stadium in March, while the reverse fixture will take place at Wembley in
September. "It's a big game. We've got a lot of big games coming up with
this Nations Cup tournament and obviously the England game and other games
after that. "I am happy that I can contribute and be a part of it."
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McCallum a Hammer
WHUFC.com
Young prospect Paul McCallum has chosen West Ham United over a host of
competing clubs
31.01.2011
Paul McCallum is aiming to go all the way at West Ham United after his
deadline-day arrival at the Boleyn Ground for an undisclosed fee. The
striker, who turns 18 in July, has been a revelation at non-league Dulwich
Hamlet this season, not least in scoring six goals in his last three
matches. McCallum had attracted interest from a reported 14 clubs but had no
hesitation in choosing a switch to West Ham After putting pen to paper on
Monday evening following his medical, the Streatham-based teenager told West
Ham TV: "It feels unreal. I feel like I am dreaming. I am expecting to wake
up any minute. I am honoured to sign for West Ham and I feel great."
A pacy forward who is still growing at 6'3, McCallum is ready to knuckle
down and prove himself first in Tony Carr's youth set-up, where he has
already met his new team-mates. He is relishing the thought of learning from
the likes of Carlton Cole and Robbie Keane at Chadwell Heath. "The youth
team at West Ham have got a great history and that is one of the reason why
West Ham stood out more than the Chelseas and Arsenals. I know I made the
right decision to come here. There is definitely a path here. It is a great
set-up."
McCallum only started playing football competitively two years ago, citing
himself as a "late developer". He began playing men's football aged 15 with
his brothers and said that had helped him to cope with the demands at
Dulwich. He has also had to deal with the intense interest from several
scouts whenever he has played. His fine season saw him score eleven goals in
the FA Youth Cup as the Dulwich academy team made it to a third-round tie
against Newcastle United. It was in the south London side's first team that
he made a real impact, though, and prompted the Premier League's finest to
take notice. "A lot of clubs were interested. At one point I think it was 14
clubs. I have just kept my head down and carried on working hard and here I
am now. "I have been on trial so I know everyone and like the way training
is. I hope I can hit the ground running. The first team would be the dream.
Hopefully one day, with some luck, the coaches can see what I can do and I
get a chance."
A keen tennis and badminton fan, McCallum said he had already thought about
the possibility of one day playing for the club at the Olympic Stadium,
should the club relocate. "It would definitely be a dream to play for West
Ham at the Olympic Stadium," he added.
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Dyer joins Charlton
WHUFC.com
Reserve-team manager Alex Dyer has left West Ham United to become assistant
manager at Charlton Athletic
31.01.2011
Alex Dyer has paid tribute to West Ham United after leaving his role as
reserve-team manager to take up the post of assistant manager at Charlton
Athletic.
Dyer ended a seven-year association with the Hammers by starting work as No2
to close friend and former West Ham defender Chris Powell on Monday morning.
The 45-year-old spoke warmly of his former colleagues at the Boleyn Ground
and also wished the club all the best in their fight to remain in the
Barclays Premier League. On a personal level, the lifelong West Ham fan is
now looking to make his mark working alongside Powell at The Valley. "It
came out of the blue. When Chrissy Powell got the job he said to me 'Do you
feel like coming across?' and I said I'd love to. I had to sort out things
at the club, which we've done, and it's a good opportunity for me to step up
and work with a first team, which is a goal. "It's been a good learning
curve with the reserves and I'm hoping now that I can go on to the next
level and support Chris in his new job. "It's a great opportunity for me
personally. It was a wrench leaving West Ham because I love the place. I've
been here for seven years. I came here first as a conditioning coach with
the youth team but I always wanted to coach knowing that my background was
playing football. "Slowly, the doors opened up. Kevin Keen always said to me
that coaching was what I should be doing so when the opportunity to take the
reserve-team job, I take my hat off to the man because he is the one that
pushed me and told me to go and take my badges. "When the door opened up, I
grabbed it and I've had so much support from Kev - he's been great for me.
I've worked under some very good coaches like Kevin and Steve Clarke who
have helped me to set out my sessions. "Also, the people off the pitch have
been great, especially the kit man Pete Williams. From day one, he has been
great for me, looked after me, given me advice and put his arm around me
when we've been beaten in the reserves. He's kept me going and is one of
those people who I will miss most of all, along with the Doc [Ges
Steinbergs] because we've always been there. People have come and gone but
we are the ones who have been around and it's been great. "I also want to
thank my physio Tom Smith, James Gritt, Eamon Swift, Anita Taylor for doing
all the paperwork and also Shirley and Keith in the canteen."
Dyer has enjoyed some fantastic times at West Ham, initially joining the
club as a conditioning coach in the Academy before being promoted to
reserve-team manager in September 2008. Over the past two-and-a-half
seasons, Dyer has played his part in developing a host ofpromising young
players who have gone on to become first-team squad members including Jack
Collison, Zavon Hines, Freddie Sears, Junior Stanislas and Marek Stech.
"Getting back into the Premier League with West Ham was a great time. Even
though I wasn't directly involved, getting to the FA Cup final was also a
great time for the club I supported as a kid. "I was born in Forest Gate and
went to school there. I supported this club when I was a boy and it's my
team. My Mum still lives in Forest Gate and my family are here, so it's a
wrench to leave. "I have made the reserve-team role my own. We have a nice
spirit and the kids have been great. The young boys who have come through
have been brilliant. We have a good, tight unit and work hard for each other
and I'm going to miss them because they are good kids. "It's time for me to
go to the next level and see if I can grow, keep learning and wanting to be
the best coach out there.
"I hope that, with Chris Powell and the staff at Charlton, we can get
ourselves out of that division."
While he is naturally now focused on helping the Addicks gain promotion from
League One, Dyer is desperate for the Hammers to maintain their Barclays
Premier League status. "Obviously, speaking about West Ham, I really hope
they avoid relegation this year. The squad is good enough, the management
team is good enough to stay in this division. I wish Avram, Colesy - I've
known him since I was at Palace and he's been great for me - Paul Groves and
Wally Downes the best. They're a great backroom staff and they've got to
stick together and I'm sure they'll be OK. "I'm sure they can survive and
stay in the Premier League. "I wish Avram the best because he's been good to
me in the sense that when I told him about leaving he said he didn't want me
to go but didn't stand in my way. He's provided me with a smooth passage to
move on and I appreciate that. "I hope I haven't forgotten anyone because
I've enjoyed my time at this club and I hope that, one day, I can come back
in another capacity because I do love the place."
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Barnsley sign Jacob Mellis and Frank Nouble
BBC.co.uk
Barnsley have signed midfielder Jacob Mellis from Chelsea and striker Frank
Nouble from West Ham United, both on loan until the end of the season.
Mellis, 20, made his first-team debut against Zilina in the Champions League
last November, and made 15 appearances on loan at Southampton last season.
Nouble, 19, has made 14 appearances for the Hammers since his move to Upton
Park from Chelsea in July 2009. He has also been on loan at West Brom,
Swindon and Swansea. England Under-19 international Mellis, who joined the
Blues from Sheffield United in 2007, last week signed a deal to keep him at
Stamford Bridge until 2013. "He is a big talent and technically brilliant,"
Tykes boss Mark Robins told the club website. "He's not been seen on this
stage yet, but I have no worries about his attacking abilities."
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Ilunga on his way?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Herita Ilunga could be on his way back to France, according to reports this
morning. The out-of-favour Congolese full back, who has barely featured for
the Hammers this season could be set to move to AC Monaco later today,
French media is reporting. Former Toulouse left-back Ilunga joined West Ham
two years ago and enjoyed a throughly successful first season at the club.
However since signing a permanent deal with the Hammers, his form has fallen
away drastically. West Ham are also hoping to move on striker Benni McCarthy
today, who recently went on trial with Championship club Queens Park
Rangers. McCarthy, who is rated with the likes of Tit Camara and Marco
Boogers as one of West Ham United's worst ever signings has failed to score
a single goal since moving to West Ham a year ago this month.
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Hammers linked to Man Utd defender
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are, as usual, being linked to a string of players with the
transfer deadline just hours away. With the rumour mill in full flow this
morning, a string of links - some tenuous, some slightly less so - have
emerged this morning regarding the Hammers, who Avram Grant confirmed last
night remain in the hunt for at least one more player. Manchester United's
Wes Brown, who has made just 10 appearances for the title challengers this
season - one of which was the 4-0 defeat at the BG in the Carling Cup
quarter finals - is one player being linked with a move south. Tottenham
are also said to be interested in the 30-year-old defender, who can also
play at right back. Elsewhere it has been claimed that the Hammers are one
of three Premier League clubs - the others being Fulham and Bolton - who
have made enquiries at Manchester City this morning with view to taking
unnamed players on loan. Micah Richards and Shaun Wright-Phillips have both
been the subject of tentative enquiries in the past. Reading's Shane Long is
another who is said to have been subject of an enquiry from the Hammers,
although Reading director of football Nick Hammond has this morning ruled
out any incomings or outgoings at the Madejski.
Meanwhile Tal Ben Haim, who spent six months on loan with the Hammers last
year is thought to be on standby should no other deals go through. The only
likely outgoings today appear to be Herita Ilunga and Benni McCarthy, both
of whom are surplus to requirements under Avram Grant. Ilunga has been
linked with a return to Franco (Monaco) whilst McCarthy is likely to move to
a lower league Eglish team - assuming West Ham can find someone daft enough
to take him. However the winner of this window's most tenuous link award
must surely go to whoever decided to spread the rumour that West Ham are in
for Corinthians' 37-year-old former Brazilian international Roberto Carlos.
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Stupid
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Victor Obinna has admitted that his dismissal against Birmingham in the
first leg of the Carling Cup semi final was 'stupid'. The Nigerian attacker
dedicated his weekend hat-trick to the club's supporters by way of an
apology for the dismissal that left the Hammers with ten men and unable to
stamp their authority in the tie, which Birmingham went on to win 4-3 on
aggregate. "I was very stupid to get suspended that way. It happens in
football but I apologise to the fans about that," a remorseful Obinna told
whufc.com. "I was mad with myself after the game because I left my
team-mates with ten men and I had to miss three games. "I didn't know I was
missing three games until later, so I apologise to the fans and take full
responsibility for that and it is definitely something that will never
happen again."
However his hat-trick against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup at the weekend
went some way to softening that blow. "I thought we deserved to win the
game, but the first half was really poor," he admitted. "It was a fantastic
game for the fans. After the disappointment against Birmingham everybody was
down, but I think we just have to move on because that is football. "In
England it is the first hat-trick I have scored, but I scored one in Italy.
This [ball] is really nice. Maybe my Mum will be able to keep it!"
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Transfer deadline: final update
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
West Ham continue to be linked with a string of players as the winter
transfer deadline draws to a close. 23-year-old Leeds United winger Robert
Snodgrass was reportedly the target of a bid from the Hammers earlier this
afternoon. However West Ham's approach is said to have been rejected
instantly by the Championship club.
It was a similar story with Manchester City's Shaun Wright-Phillips. The
former England winger was the subject of enquiries from at least four
Premier League clubs today - one of which was said to have been West Ham -
but will remain at Eastlands due to the recent injury to Adam Johnson.
However one rumour that may have legs is the purported deal to bring
Valencia's Vicente to the Boleyn Ground. The 29-year-old wide man is thought
to be surplus to requirements at Mestalla and a loan move to the Premier
League may well suit all involved.
Another possible arrival is Portsmouth's Tal Ben Haim, who spent the first
half of the season on loan with the Hammers. Pompey are likely to allow the
Israeli international to leave on a free transfer in order to remove his
hefty salary from their wage bill. Any move is likely to be dependent on
other deals.
But one player definitely not on his way to Upton Park is Southampton
youngster Aaron Martin. The 21-year-old centre-half has recently broken into
the first team at St Mary's and has been watched by a number of Premier
League clubs in recent weeks. However an enquiry from West Ham earlier in
the day was swiftly rebuffed.
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Grant: one more to go
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Avram Grant has confirmed that he is hoping to make one more signing ahead
of the transfer deadline at 11pm tonight. The Hammers boss, speaking outside
the Boleyn Ground tonight revealed that he was still looking to expand his
squad - whilst dismissing rumours that Carlton Cole was a potential target
for Newcastle, who are on the verge of selling Andy Carroll to Liverpool for
£35million. It has already been a productive window for Grant, who has
managed to sign no less than five players to boost his squad's chances of
avoiding relegation. Wayne Bridge, Gary O'Neil, Demba Ba, Robbie Keane and
youngster Paul McCallum, whose arrival is yet to be confirmed by the club.
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Striker goes on loan
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
Frank Nouble has joined Barnsley on loan for the rest of the season. The
19-year-old striker, who has made four appearances for the Hammers this
season is on his way to join the Championship club, according to local media
in Yorkshire. Barnsley will be the fourth club Nouble has featured for on
loan since moving from Chelsea to West Ham. He has previously spent time
with West Brom, Swindon and Swansea. Nouble will be the second transfer
deadline day signing for the Tykes, who captured Jacob Mellis on loan from
Chelsea earlier in the day.
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The window closes
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
The January transfer window has come to a close - with West Ham yet to
confirm their final business. With five players already in - Wayne Bridge,
Gary O'Neil, Demba Ba, Robbie Keane and youngster Paul McCallum - the
Hammers were desperately seeking to make at least one more signing ahead of
tonight's 11pm deadline. Former Portsmouth star Papa Bouba Diop is thought
to have been one player that Avram Grant had been hoping to add to his
squad, but any planned move failed to materialise.
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Sullivan reflects on 'stressful' window
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 31st January 2011
By: Staff Writer
West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has referred to the January transfer
window as 'the most stressful time I can ever remember in football'.
Sullivan, speaking in tomorrow's Daily Mail, admitted that the past four
weeks had 'taken over my life' - and that he was 'glad' when the curtain
finally came down on the window at 11pm tonight. "Maybe it is the position
we are in, but this has been the most stressful time I can ever remember in
football," he said. "I knew I had to do something - and we have signed four
players. "This is a crazy time of year for doing business and only the needy
step into the market. You can sense Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson
sitting back and watching it all unfold with a sense of calm, in the
knowledge their squads are fully prepared for the months ahead. "The rest
of us have to get into the bear pit and fight for our lives. I was glad when
11pm arrived last night. Now we can get on with the football again."
Sullivan on the new boys
Wayne Bridge: "Wayne has made an impact and, I hope, will continue to make a
difference."
Demba Ba: "The deal took three weeks to structure and complete; he will be
an exciting capture."
Robbie Keane: "I hope it is a permanent deal. He is a very good signing and
the fans will really take to his style of play."
Paul McCullum: "It could prove to be the signing of the window, if he
fulfils his potential. He's one for the future, we'll see how he develops."
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Hammers see Martin bid snubbed
Saints spurn West Ham approach for young stopper
Last updated: 31st January 2011
SSN
Skysports.com understands West Ham have had a bid rejected by Southampton
for centre-back Aaron Martin. Premier League strugglers the Hammers have
already moved to strengthen their frontline in this month's transfer window,
bringing in strikers Demba Ba from German club Hoffenheim and Robbie Kean on
loan from Tottenham. And now manager Avram Grant has seemingly turned his
attention to the club's defence, reportedly making an offer for young
stopper Martin. However, League One side the Saints are thought to have
spurned the approach as they concentrate on their promotion push this term.
Martin, who spent time on loan at non-league side Salisbury City last year,
has made three League One appearances for the Saints this season, as well as
two cup outings.
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Grant eyes another signing
And Hammers boss not prepared to let Cole go
By Elliot Ball - follow me on Twitter @ballell Last updated: 31st January
2011
SSN
Avram Grant has revealed West Ham United could add another player to their
ranks before the transfer deadline and insists Carlton Cole will not leave.
The Hammers have already added Tottenham's Robbie Keane to their ranks in
the January transfer window and they have been tracking Southampton's Aaron
Martin. The Saints have so far rebuffed West Ham's overtures for the central
defender but Grant is still confident of adding another face at Upton Park.
When asked if he would be bringing anyone else in before Monday's 11pm
cut-off, the Israeli told Sky Sports News: "Maybe one, we will see. I am not
sure if it will happen, we will have to wait. "He is a good player. We are
dealing with it now and I don't think it is a good idea to speak about it
before it is done." Andy Carroll's projected move to Liverpool has sparked
suggestions West Ham's Cole could replace the striker at Newcastle United.
But Grant insists his England frontman is going nowhere, adding: "I haven't
heard about that. He is our player and he will stay with us."
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Grant confident of survival
Manager backs newcomers to keep Hammers afloat
Last updated: 31st January 2011
SSN
Avram Grant believes his January recruits can inspire West Ham to triumph in
their relegation battle and beat the drop. The Hammers manager has bolstered
his squad with the signings of Robbie Keane, Demba Ba, Gary O'Neil and Wayne
Bridge over the past month. Fresh faces were required after a dismal first
half to the season which has left West Ham languishing at the bottom of the
Premier League, two points adrift of safety. Grant is now hoping the extra
impetus which often comes from new players will pay off immediately in three
crucial games, against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road on Wednesday, against
Birmingham at home next Sunday and away to West Brom the following Saturday.
They are matches from which West Ham must gain a significant points return
if they are to cash in on the optimism of recent performances. "The squad is
not bad but because of the injuries we've had we needed more players for
competition and fresh legs," said Grant, whose side beat Nottingham Forest
3-2 at the weekend to progress to the fifth round of the FA Cup.
"We had injuries in the first half of the season. Things didn't go for us.
We were looking for players to make up the 18 on match day so it was very
difficult.
"The next game is very important to us. Against Blackpool the players will
give everything they have. It is important for both teams but for us it is
more important. "Then we take on Birmingham. Both are teams near to us in
the table so it is vital to pick up points. We will approach those games
with confidence, especially if we can sustain the football we have played in
recent games."
Obinna apology
Keane's enthusiasm could give the Hammers an immediate lift and Grant is
likely to throw him straight in against Blackpool. He could form an exciting
strikeforce alongside Frederic Piquionne and Victor Obinna, who scored a
hat-trick against Forest. And Obinna has dedicated his treble to the West
Ham supporters he admits he let down by getting sent off in the Carling Cup
semi-final against Birmingham. "I was very stupid," Obinna said. "It happens
in football but I apologise to the fans about that. "I was mad with myself
after the game because I left my team-mates with 10 men. "I take full
responsibility for that and it is definitely something that will never
happen again."
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Exclusive - Gold: 'Keane is the best Premier League striker available'
TalkSport
By Ian Cruise
Monday, January 31
David Gold believes West Ham have pulled off a real coup by signing Robbie
Keane on loan from Tottenham. The Hammers co-chairman believes the Irishman
is the best Premier League striker who was on the market in January and he's
delighted he's moved to Upton Park. Gold told talkSPORT: "I'm absolutely
thrilled. He's probably the best striker around that's available. "There are
lots of great strikers in the Premier League, but we're talking about
availability, so arguably he's the best of all who've been available in the
window."
With Keane joining new arrivals Gary O'Neil, Wayne Bridge and Demba Ba in
east London, and Thomas Hitzlsperger and Jack Collison set to return from
long-term injuries, the Hammers now look in better shape to mount an escape
from the threat of relegation. Gold added: "Right now we feel in a good
place compared to where we were at the beginning of the season. "We feel not
only have we added to the squad but players are coming back, and it's almost
as if in the second half of the season we'll have seven more players in the
squad than we did in the first half of the season."
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West Ham's Danny Gabbidon comes out of Wales retirement
Nations Cup
BBC.co.uk
Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin Date: Tuesday, 8 February 2011 Kick-off: 1945
GMT
Coverage: Listen live on BBC Radio Wales, live score updates on the BBC
Sport website
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
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West Ham United's Danny Gabbidon has come out of international retirement to
be included in new Wales boss Gary Speed's first squad. Speed has also
included Aaron Ramsey, who is on loan at Cardiff City from Arsenal, for the
8 February Nations Cup clash with the Republic of Ireland. Tottenham
Hotspur's Gareth Bale has a back injury and Cardiff's Craig Bellamy (knee)
was not considered. Coventry City's Freddie Eastwood also returns to the
Wales fold. There had also been speculation over a possible return from
retirement of Fulham midfielder Simon Davies, but that has not happened.
Speed said: "Simon said he was tempted but at the moment he wants to
concentrate on his Fulham career and I respect that totally. Obviously Simon
is a quality player but I totally respect his decision."
Wales take on the Republic of Ireland at the rebuilt Aviva Stadium and the
following night Northern Ireland take on Scotland at the same venue.
Bellamy has been suffering knee problems and as Cardiff face fellow
Championship promotion rivals Swansea City on Sunday, Speed feels it would
be unfair to ask him to play two days later. Speed said: "I am sure everyone
is aware of Craig's situation and it would be wrong of me to ask him to play
on Tuesday after playing on Sunday. "The last thing we want is players going
back to their clubs injured." Speed said of Ramsey: "I'm delighted he's
available. He is really relishing the challenge and the Ireland game might
come at the right time for him. "He is hopefully one of the cogs in the
wheel that will make us successful. He's one of those players who can change
a game."
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Wales squad:
J Brown (Blackburn), W Hennessey (Wolves), B Myhill (West Brom); D Collins
(Stoke), J Collins (Aston Villa), N Eardley (Blackpool), D Gabbidon (West
Ham), C Gunter (Nottingham Forest), C Morgan (Preston), S Ricketts (Bolton),
A Williams (Swansea); A Crofts (Norwich), D Edwards (Wolves), A King
(Leicester), J Ledley (Celtic), A Ramsey (Cardiff), D Vaughan (Blackpool); S
Church (Reading), R Earnshaw (Nottingham Forest), C Evans (Sheffield
United), F Eastwood (Coventry), S Morison (Millwall), H Robson-Kanu
(Reading).
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Ilunga linked with Monaco move
Hammers left-back could return to French league
By Patrick Haond Last updated: 31st January 2011
SSN
West Ham defender Herita Ilunga could join Ligue 1 side Monaco on Monday,
according to reports in France. French paper L'Equipe confirmed that
officials from the club were in talks with the Premier League side in a bid
to bring the 28-year-old to the Principality. The left-back joined the
Hammers on loan from Toulouse in 2008 before sealing a permanent switch to
Upton Park a year later. The Congo international has lost his starting place
under Avram Grant following the loan arrival of Wayne Bridge during January.
Monaco are currently struggling in the French top tier, sitting two points
from safety with just two wins in their last 10 games. A deadline day move
for Ilunga would see the player in line for a start against former club
Toulouse on 6th February.
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Bolton and West Ham fight it out for Swansea ace
TalkSport
By Alex Shaw
Monday, January 31
Bolton face a last minute scramble for Swansea star Darren Pratley - with
West Ham and Nottingham Forest making late moves for him. Pratley has scored
seven for the Swans this season and has played a pivotal role in their
promotion charge. Owen Coyle is eager to make additions to his Bolton squad
and has been working on a deal for Pratley for the past week or so. The
25-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season and Swansea are
ready to cash in on him rather than lose him on a free - and they've already
turned down a bid from promotion rivals Forest. But West Ham have also
registered their interest in the final hours of the window, leaving Coyle
with a fight on his hands to sign the in-demand midfielder.
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West Ham move in for Anderlecht midfield ace
By talkSPORT
Monday, January 31
West Ham are poised to make a move for Anderlecht midfielder Lucas Biglia.
The 25-year-old has also been attracting interest from Valencia, but reports
in Belgium suggest that West Ham are set to finalise a deal before the
transfer window closes. Hammers boss Avram Grant has already secured the
signings of Robbie Keane, Demba Ba, Gary O'Neil and Wayne Bridge, but is
determined to bring more players to the club. Biglia has been impressive for
Anderlecht this season and is being tipped to make a breakthrough into the
Argentina team. Grant is hoping a move can be finalised in the next few
hours and Biglia can make his debut against Blackpool on Wednesday night.
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West Ham turn down chance to sign ex-Arsenal ace
TalkSport
By Alex Shaw
Monday, January 31
West Ham have turned down the chance to sign former Arsenal midfield star
Edu. The Brazilian has been training with the club for the last week in the
hope of earning a permanent move to Upton Park. The 32-year-old played for
the Gunners for five years, including the 2003-04 season when the club won
the Premier League without losing a single game, before leaving in 2005 to
join Valencia. The central midfielder, with 15 caps for Brazil, has been a
free agent since leaving Corinthians but will not be added to Avram Grant's
squad.
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West Ham new boys can boost revival
The Sun
Published: Today
AVRAM GRANT insists his January transfer deals will see West Ham climb out
of the relegation drop zone. The Hammers boss has added Robbie Keane, Demba
Ba, Gary O'Neil and Wayne Bridge to a squad which was hit by injuries in the
first half of the season. Now he is hoping the enthusiasm which often comes
from new faces will pay off right away. Grant said: "The squad is not bad
but because of the injuries we've had we needed more players for competition
and fresh legs. "We had injuries in the first half of the season and things
didn't go for us. We were looking for players to make up the 18 on match day
so it was very difficult. "The next game is very important to us and against
Blackpool the players will give everything they have. It is important for
both teams but for us it is more important. "Then we take on Birmingham.
Both are teams near to us in the table so it is vital to pick up points. We
will approach those games with confidence, especially if we can sustain the
football we have played in recent games."
The prospect of 30-year-old Keane playing with Victor Obinna and Frederic
Piquionne, the Hammers' leading scorer in the league, gives Grant hope.
He said: "I'm really happy to have Keane. He can help us a lot and brings
plenty of quality.'' Meanwhile, Hammers are talking over a loan move for
young striker Frank Nouble to go to Barnsley until the end of the season.
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David Sullivan - It's like being eaten alive in the transfer window bearpit
By David Sullivan
Last updated at 11:10 PM on 31st January 2011
Daily Mail
Maybe it is the position we are in, but this has been the most stressful
time I can ever remember in football. Nobody wants to help, of course. Why
should they? Money is tight so it's a case of doing your homework and being
selective with your gambling. Yesterday, we signed 18-year-old striker Paul
McCullum from Dulwich Hamlet for a small fee. It could prove to be the
signing of the window, if he fulfils his potential.
A few other clubs wanted him, but we moved quickly; he's one for the future
and our club has a reputation for giving young players a chance. We'll see
how he develops. More immediately, It took us 10 days to complete the loan
signing of Robbie Keane with a view to the transfer becoming permanent, if
West Ham stay in the Barclays Premier League. In other words, I hope it is a
permanent deal. He is a very good signing and the fans will really take to
his style of play. The Demba Ba deal took three weeks to structure and
complete and he will also be an exciting capture.
The transfer window has taken over my life this month. I knew I had to do
something and we have signed four players. Wayne Bridge is another who has
made an impact and, I hope, will continue to make a difference. Every phone
call or email from an agent is offering another player and fees are high
again. Buys in the closing stages of the window are often desperation buys
and clubs overspend.
Look at Fernando Torres, Andy Carroll and Darren Bent; those deals are
driven by rich, foreign owners, whose wealth is not subjected to the same UK
tax demands we are. It's all about odds and timing and luck. I remember
signing Roger Johnson and Scott Dann for Birmingham and they came out of the
Championship to forge an excellent Premier League central defensive
partnership. It can happen.
This is a crazy time of year for doing business and only the needy step into
the market. You can sense Arsene Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson sitting back
and watching it all unfold with a sense of calm, in the knowledge their
squads are fully prepared for the months ahead.
The rest of us have to get into the bear pit and fight for our lives. I was
glad when 11pm arrived last night. Now we can get on with the football
again.
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That'll Edu nicely for Hammers
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today
WEST HAM may yet bring in post-window reinforcements in their battle against
relegation by signing former Arsenal midfielder Edu. He is on trial at Upton
Park and, as a free agent, there is no rush to sign him. Edu, 32, has quit
Brazilian club Corinthians and is looking for a move back to the Premier
League.
Hammers boss Avram Grant did make one small move into the transfer market
yesterday by signing hot non-league prospect, Paul McCallum, from Dulwich
Hamlet for £40,000. McCallum, 18, has scored six goals in his last three
games and underwent a medical yesterday. Happy Hammers co-owner David Gold
struck a bullish note at the close of the window as he reckons the East End
outfit, who go to Blackpool tomorrow, have triumphed over their relegation
rivals in the January sales. Gold is delighted with the bottom club's
capture of Spurs striker Robbie Keane, frontman Demba Ba, Wayne Bridge and
Gary O'Neil.
He said: "As a signing, how many points would you give Robbie Keane? "He has
to be a nine. Demba has to be a seven, eight or a nine. Then you say who did
Wolves bring in? "Who did West Brom bring in? Who did Wigan bring in?
They're our competitors. "Did they bring in two strikers? I don't think so.
If they did, are they of the quality that we have got? The bottom line is
we're in a much, much better place today than we've been all season."
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Edu told to prove himself before he can become a Hammer
Published 23:16 31/01/11 By Football Spy
The Mirror
Former Arsenal midfielder Edu must prove himself before joining West Ham.
Boss Avram Grant is undecided about the Brazilian star, 32, who is on trial
at the Hammers but can sign outside of the window.
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