WHUFC.com
Another capacity crowd will be in place for the next Barclays Premier League
home fixture
08.03.2011
A capacity crowd will see if the Hammers can make it four straight home wins
when Manchester United come calling on Saturday 2 April. The UEFA Champions
League contenders will head to the Boleyn Ground looking to strengthen their
hopes of recapturing the Barclays Premier League title, but Avram Grant's
men will have plenty of confidence after their recent run and the 4-0 defeat
of the Red Devils in the Carling Cup earlier this season. With all regular
tickets now sold yet again at Upton Park, fans wanting to be a part of it
can still take advantage of a limited number of hospitality places - but
these are expected to go quickly as well. Click here to find out more about
the superb range of packages and promotions. There are just four matches
left at Upton Park this season, with a superb mini-season ticket also
proving popular for fans wanting to be sure to see every kick of what will
be a thrilling run-in to the campaign. The Hammers have scored eleven goals
in their last three matches and, with a full squad plus the likes of Jack
Collison, Kieron Dyer and Robbie Keane all closing on a return, what are you
waiting for? Don't delay, get your tickets today for the final four.
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Spence shines again
WHUFC.com
The 20-year-old Jordan Spence is proving a hit already at Bristol City after
another winning performance
08.03.2011
Jordan Spence continued his impressive start to his month-long loan at
Bristol City by helping them to a second straight win in four days - this
time against promotion-chasing Portsmouth. The Hammers right-back played the
full 90 minutes in Tuesday's 2-1 triumph at Ashton Gate, as he had in
Saturday's 4-1 win away to Coventry City, and did well against a Pompey
strikeforce including David Nugent (pictured)and Dave Kitson. Spence is also
benefitting from playing in front of City's England goalkeeper David James.
The 20-year-old is relishing his second taste of Championship football after
eleven games at Scunthorpe United last season. He had established himself as
the Hammers reserve-team captain this campaign but knew a loan spell would
help his long-term hopes of adding to the one senior appearance he has for
West Ham. Spence, who can also play centre-half but prefers the full-back
position, said: "I've come here to play games and my aim, first and
foremost, is to do well for Bristol City. But it's also a chance to show the
people at West Ham what I can do and I'm looking upon the next couple of
months as a big opportunity for me personally. "If the team is doing well
and I'm playing regularly, then the rest will take care of itself."
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Sunderland 1-1 Reserves
WHUFC.com
Callum Driver's fine goal earns the Hammers a hard-earned point on a
blustery afternoon in Sunderland
08.03.2011
WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER RESERVE LEAGUE
THE ACADEMY OF LIGHT
TUESDAY 8 MARCH 2011
KICK-OFF: 2.30PM
Final score - Sunderland reserves 1-1 West Ham United reserves
94 mins - Vose wins a later corner, but it is headed clear. Abdulla kicks
the ball back into the penalty area but Craig's flick-on is easy for
goalkeeper Wilson. He clears and seconds later the final whistle is blown.
That was a hard-earned point, but it could have been all three had Nouble
been awarded a late, late penalty. Some good performances from the Hammers
in difficult, blustery conditions. New manager Lomas remains unbeaten. West
Ham return to action next Tuesday evening when Newcastle United are the
visitors to the Boleyn Ground. Before then, keep an eye on whufc.com and
West Ham TV for exclusive highlights and post-match reaction.
93 mins - I'd say that's a talking point! Abdulla curves a fine ball into
the Sunderland half that has defender Egan in two minds. Nouble gambles and
gets goal-side of his defender before going down. He wants a penalty, but
neither the referee or his assistant are moved.
92 mins - Nouble works hard to win the ball and feeds Modelski, who wins a
throw deep in Sunderland territory. The Hammers need to keep concentrating
here.
91 mins - We're into the first of four added minutes.
90 mins - West Ham will finish the game with ten men as Driver limps to the
sideline. The Hammers go 4-4-1 for the final few moments.
87 mins - A chance to deliver something into the Sunderland box as Bagnall
dives over Vose. Those two have had a right battle, despite Vose only being
on the pitch for a few moments. Driver needs the physio on again, but for a
third time I think he'll be OK to continue. The free-kick comes to nothing.
86 mins - Lletget releases Montano in behind left-back Adams. He sits the
No3 on his backside before crossing into the middle. Egan's header falls to
Lee, but he cannot quite fashion a shooting chance and the home side clear
their lines.
84 mins - Bagnall is booked for going through the back of Vose. To be fair
to the defender, it looked like he slipped.
82 mins - Vose is involved straight away as Lee leads an attack. Modelski
crosses towards Lletget, but Sunderland hold firm and clear their lines. The
pressure is released when Nouble is harshly penalised for an infringement.
80 mins - A third and final change from manager Lomas sees Edgar replaced by
Dominic Vose.
78 mins - The Hammers have some welcome pressure. First, Nouble's low shot
is blocked, then Edgar wins a corner off Bagnall. Edgar's initial delivery
holds up on the wind, but the ball is worked back to him and he beats his
marker before pulling the ball back. Craig gets his toe to the ball, but it
rolls harmlessly through to goalkeeper Wilson.
76 mins - Sunderland have another shooting chance courtesy of a free-kick
about 25 yards out. Colback curls a low shot around the wall and Larkins
shows fine handling to fall on the ball surrounded by home players.
75 mins - Edgar is booked as he slips and grabs the ball with his hand. That
was pretty blatant, to be honest.
73 mins - GOAL! Egan powers a header past Larkins from Knott's left-wing
corner. We're level again.
72 mins - Really brave goalkeeping from Larkins as Campbell gets some space
inside the penalty area and shoots left-footed, but the goalkeeper dives in
bravely with Modelski and the pair repel the effort. The ball squirms behind
for a corner and Modelski has some treatment.
70 mins - West Ham make a second change, replacing Moncur with Sebastian
Lletget.
69 mins - Campbell's touch is good and he makes space for a cross that loops
over Fletcher on the wind before Lee stabs the ball clear.
67 mins - I'm not sure he has touched the ball yet, but Craig is booked for
blocking the run of Fletcher about 30 yards from goal. Colback takes the
free-kick and Larkins holds on well.
65 mins - Lee does well against Knott and finds Edgar, who then slips over
and presents the ball to a Sunderland player. It's left-back Adams again,
but his cross eludes everybody.
63 mins - Campell is on for Nathan Wilson. He joins Fletcher up front.
62 mins - Paco Craig is also coming on for West Ham, as is No14 Billy Knott
for Sunderland. Campbell isn't quite ready yet. Eyjolfsson and Luscombe are
the two players replaced.
61 mins - Bruce is here because Fraizer Campbell is about to come on. The
forward will wear the No15 shirt. That means, I think, that the mystery No16
was Matthew Fletcher.
60 mins - That's better from Nouble on two occasions. First, he holds the
ball up well as West Ham attack, then he nicks in and wins it again after
Lee's pass for Modelski had been cut out. Good hustling from the big
forward.
57 mins - Nouble has his defender beaten down the left but decides to check.
He then runs at the defence again before losing control as he attempts a
step-over.
55 mins - All four West Ham subs are warming up to my right. I would think
manager Lomas might give a couple of his youngsters a run out as the game
wears on, but we shall see.
53 mins - Colback beats Lee to the ball in midfield before running at
Eyjolfsson and trying to place his shot inside the left-hand post. Larkins
dives, but the ball flies a yard or so wide.
52 mins - Driver will be OK to continue. Nouble does well on the edge of the
box to hold off two defenders and find the left-back, but his low cross is
blocked.
51 mins - Driver needs the physio on again. He's had quite an eventful game
so far! Dominic Vose and Paco Craig are sent out to warm-up as a precaution
by manager Lomas.
50 mins - The Hammers are playing into the wind in the second half. It's
really blowing in off the North Sea. Thank goodness the sun is out!
48 mins - Left-back Adams tries to emulate Driver by running at the Hammers
defence and shooting right-footed, but he drags his shot well wide of the
left-hand post.
46 mins - After a short half-time break, West Ham get the game back
underway...
Sunderland make a half-time change, with Welbeck being replaced by No16. On
the teamsheet, No16 is Fraizer Campbell, but this lad is not Fraizer
Campbell.
Half-time score - Sunderland reserves 0-1 West Ham United reserves
47 mins - A good strong half from the Hammers ends with another welcome
spell of possession. Driver's goal was a real highlight of what has been a
very decent performance so far. The seagulls are making plenty of noise, so
I presume they are also impressed by what they have seen so far!
45 mins - We're going to have at least two added minutes.
44 mins - The visitors keep up the pressure and Edgar collects before
curling in a delicious ball that is inches too strong for Lee. The
midfielder applauds his team-mate's efforts. That was so close to a second
goal.
43 mins - The Hammers break and Edgar gets to the by-line and wins a corner.
Montano to take. His left-footed delivery catches on the wind and swings in
past the head of Nouble. The ball hits a defender and goes behind again.
Edgar delivers but McNaughton's header is cleared.
42 mins - Nathan Wilson almost negates all West Ham's good work by letting
fly from all of 30 yards. Larkins watches the ball closely and pats the ball
down before holding on. Good goalkeeping in the conditions.
41 mins - McNaughton does well to hold off Welbeck. The centre-backs have
grown in stature as the game has gone on and looked increasingly solid.
39 mins - Having gone ahead, Lomas encourages his players to maintain their
shape and concentration. The manager also switches Edgar and Montano, with
the former coming over to the left wing.
37 mins - GOAL! A hopeful Eyjolfsson clearance initially flies over Driver
and Nouble gets a flick on. The left-back gambles and controls the loose
ball before driving into the penalty area, dropping his shoulder to lose one
defender and slotting a confident right-foot finish past Wilson from about
12 yards. A cracking finish!
36 mins - Luscombe's left-footed corner is headed over at the near post by
Welbeck. The striker was closely marked by Eyjolfsson there. Moments later,
the Icelander does well again, forcing goalkeeper Wilson to hack the ball
out for a throw as he tries to pick out the run of Nouble.
35 mins - You can see that Edgar wants to get more involved in the game as
he has drifted infield on a number of occasions in recent minutes.
Sunderland have the ball though, and Luscombe crosses to the far post where
Noble wins a corner.
33 mins - Sloppy play from Edgar, who gives the ball to Noble. The striker
sizes up his options before shooting. Eyjolfsson makes a lunging block and
the ball spins behind. The corner comes in and Montano clears at the near
post.
33 mins - Good patient possession from West Ham as they probe for an
opening. The ball is worked finally to McNaughton, who drives into space and
reaches the halfway line before trying to play in Montano, but the left
winger is offside. That must have been close.
30 mins - Abdulla gives the ball away inside the Sunderland half and
suddenly the hosts have two-on-two. Welbeck finds the rampaging left-back
Adams, who crosses into the centre where McNaughton hacks the ball clear
with his right foot.
28 mins - That's a lovely touch from Montano to control Larkins' swirling
clearance. The ball is worked well from Moncur through Abdulla, Lee and
Edgar to Modelski wide on the other flank, but his cross is too strong for
Nouble. Wilson collects the bouncing ball.
27 mins -It's been a very even game so far. Modelski finds Edgar and the
winger tries to pick out Moncur's run into the box, but the goalkeeper is
again out and dives on the ball before the No10 can get his foot to it.
25 mins - A long clearance catches on the wind and Nouble runs and tries to
latch on to the ball, but goalkeeper Ben Wilson is out quickly to clear the
danger.
23 mins - There is not a huge amount happening in terms of goalmouth action.
Lee just went on a driving run through the Sunderland midfield, but the move
petered out. Luscombe runs at Modelski but his cross flies well behind
Larkins' goal.
18 mins - Midfielder Nathan Wilson shoots from about 25 yards but there is
no power in his shot. Larkins watches the ball closely as it bounces safely
into his arms. Sunderland are probably edging this at the moment but they're
not creating much as West Ham are working hard to close down their space at
every opportunity.
14 mins - Big penalty shout as Colback releases Welbeck inside the penalty
area. The striker tests Larkins with a strong shot that the goalkeeper can
only parry to the edge of the area. Colback wins the loose ball before going
down under a challenge from Driver. Referee Mr England waves his arms and
gives nothing. The home bench don't like the decision. There was contact.
12 mins - Left-back Adams gets forward well for the home side before hacking
in a left-footed cross that hits Modelski and goes behind. The corner is
caught on the wind and flies outside the penalty area. McNaughton is able to
clear.
11 mins - Eyjolfsson does well again before Abdulla and Moncur combine to
release Nouble down the left. He runs at his marker and cuts inside before
the ball is switched wide right for Edgar. He crosses but Nouble is offside
before he heads wide of the near post.
9 mins - Modelski halts Noble's run and Eyjolfsson brings the ball away.
Noble brings the Iceland Under-21 defender down from behind and a bit of
handbags ensues. The referee blows his whistle a couple of times before it
calms down. Noble is given a talking to, but no cards are shown.
8 mins - The game re-starts with Nouble firing the ball back to the
Sunderland goalkeeper. Good sportsmanship there. Driver is back on a short
time later.
7 mins - Midfielder Lynch goes in hard and wins the ball from Driver, but
the left-back is hurt in the tackle. He needs the physio on for what looks
like a left ankle problem. After a short while he is back on his feet and
should be OK to continue.
5 mins - This is going to be a good test for Eyjolfsson and McNaughton
today, as he is up against Welbeck. The on-loan Manchester United man has
six goals in 20 Barclays Premier League appearances so far this season.
4 mins - West Ham are employing a 4-4-1-1 formation. Nouble is up front on
his own with Moncur in the hole. Abdulla and Lee are sitting deeper, with
Edgar and Montano on the wings. It's working well so far.
2 mins - Right-back Bagnall fouls Montano on halfway. Abdulla lifts a
free-kick over the Sunderland defence and Nouble brushes aside Egan before
lifting a cross over goalkeeper Wilson. Unfortunately, nobody was following
in and Sunderland smuggle the ball clear.
1 min - A long ball out from the back aimed for Welbeck catches on the
strong wind and flies about 50 yards away from the pitch. With these gusts,
we could be in for some lengthy stoppages.
2.29pm - We're underway, with Sunderland kicking from left to right as I
look at it.
2.27pm - Referee Darren England calls the two captains together for the coin
toss. Frank Nouble is wearing the armband for the Hammers, while Sunderland
are skippered by Jack Colback. The two teams swap ends and Sunderland will
kick-off.
2.25pm - Steve Lomas is determined that his players are organised and
committed this afternoon. He spent a period with his back four during the
pre-match warm-up discussing the need to retain shape and keep each other
aware of what is going on around them.
2.20pm - It's a lovely sunny day here in the North East of England. A breeze
is blowing across the Academy of Light training complex ahead of what should
be a keenly-contested match. To my right, the North Sea is visible just a
couple of miles or so away. Sunderland's players are going through a few
last-minute warm-ups, while West Ham have returned to their changing room
for some last-minute preparation.
Good afternoon and welcome to the Academy of Light for today's Barclays
Premier Reserve League meeting with Sunderland. Steve Lomas will be eager to
make it two wins from two after recording a 3-2 home victory over Arsenal in
his first game in charge last Tuesday evening. However, the new reserve-team
boss has a much younger, less-experienced squad at his disposal this time
around, with only Anthony Edgar and Frank Nouble (pictured) - back from a
loan spell at Championship side Barnsley - having first-team action under
their belts. With the first-team squad in Portugal for a warm-weather
training camp, the Hammers will be captained by Nouble, while fellow young
professionals Olly Lee, Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson, Ahmed Abdulla, Cristian
Montano and Callum McNaughton will be keen to make their mark.
Scholars Jake Larkins, Filip Modelski, Callum Driver and George Moncur have
also been handed starts as West Ham continue their quest to close in on the
Southern Division's leading two sides, Arsenal and Aston Villa. Victory
would take West Ham level on points with second-placed Villa, albeit with an
inferior goal difference.
Sunderland go into today's game top of Northern B Division, but have won
five and lost six of their 14 league matches. Black Cats' boss Stephen
Clemence has also named a largely youthful side, but first-team striker
Danny Welbeck is included, while midfielder Jack Colback has also been
involved for Steve Bruce's side this season. Forward Fraizer Campbell is on
the substitutes' bench as he continues his comeback from a cruciate knee
ligament injury that has kept him on the sidelines since August 2010.
Sunderland reserves: B.Wilson, Bagnall, Adams, N.Wilson, Egan, Laing, Lynch,
Colback, Noble, Welbeck, Luscombe
Subs: Watson, King, Knott, Fletcher, Campbell
West Ham United reserves: Larkins, Modelski, McNaughton, Eyjolfsson, Driver,
Lee, Moncur, Abdulla, Edgar, Montano, Nouble
Subs: Wootton, Craig, Vose, Lletget, McCallum
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Hitting the right spots
WHUFC.com
Thomas Hitzlsperger is catching the eye with his outstanding midfield play
for West Ham United
08.03.2011
Thomas Hitzlsperger is relishing his role as a central figure in West Ham
United's recent renaissance. The Hammers' No11 has hit the ground running
since returning from six months out with a thigh injury, playing a starring
role in storming Barclays Premier League wins over Liverpool and Stoke City
and a 5-1 FA Cup sponsored by EON fifth-round victory over Barnsley.
Hitzlsperger's powerful left-foot shot is the stuff of legend, and the
German's two storming strikes against the Reds and the Clarets have shown
just what West Ham fans have been missing. The player himself is just
delighted to be fit and playing his part. "I'm enjoying being back playing
again. That's three games and three wins, so what more could I ask for?" he
asked West Ham TV.
"I've scored again on Saturday and it's a pure joy being out there. The fans
are behind us and there is a very good atmosphere. We're in a difficult
phase at the moment, but we seem to be handling the pressure very well. "The
business is not finished yet, though. There is a long way to go and we're
looking forward to it."
Aside from his eye-catching goals, Hitzlsperger has also settled in
seemlessly to a three-man midfield that also contains Hammer of the Year
Scott Parker and the in-form Mark Noble. The trio have played together just
three times this season, but look like they have been in the same lineup for
years, such is the evident understanding between them on the field. The
movement and passing are fluent, while the three midfielders interchange
positions with an apparent ease that makes it difficult for their opponents
to cope. "I think there is a very good understanding, even though we haven't
played many games with each other. All three of us in midfield like to have
many touches of the ball and to change our positions and be creative."
That recipe for success is working just fine so far, and Hitzlsperger and
his team-mates will hope it continues from now until the end of the season.
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An audience with Alvin
WHUFC.com
The captain of the great 85/86 side, Alvin Martin is to host a special
afternoon event next month
08.03.2011
Club great Alvin Martin is hosting a special Sportsman's Lunch at the Boleyn
Ground on Friday 15 April. The networking event, in association with Higgins
Construction, is designed specifically for the construction industry. It
will be hosted by the former West Ham United and England defender, and will
see him recall many of his favourite memories as a Hammers favourite. The
'audience with Alvin' will get under way from 12.30pm. Tables of ten can be
booked for £1,250 plus VAT, while a limited number of individual spaces are
available at £125 plus VAT per person. The afternoon will include:
Drinks reception in the prestigious 66 Club bar
Three-course lunch and wine in the 66 Club suite
Quiz, games and raffle
Winning table presentation
For more information or to make a booking, please contact the corporate
sales team on 0871 221 2700.
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A message from Stoke
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th March 2011
By: Staff Writer
A Stoke supporter has written to KUMB.com in order to condemn the violence
that marred West Ham's 3-0 win over the Potters at the weekend. Rather than
pass comment or analyse, we'll simply post it here for you to digest:
"Firstly I would like to say well done for the three points on Saturday. The
main reason for the mail is an apology of some sorts, although I fear it
might fall on some deaf ears.
The 'idiots' who attach themselves to our away days have, no doubt, knocked
back any chance of West Ham being a good away day in the future. This
Saturday - as well as last season - I enjoyed a good day out in the Queens
with no troubles and chipped in with Hammers on the friendly banter chat,
pro's/cons of 4-4-2, hatred of Chelsea etc.
Sadly though it will, I think, be my last trip. I'm a middle-aged fan but
the idiots/young ones/whatever polite name you would like to call them just
don't have a clue and this will, I'm sure, mean any future trips won't be
worth the hassle.
If they want to fight, great! Leave it to them to fight 'idiots' of similar
mentality and as far away from London as possible. Even the 'etiquette' (and
I use the term loosely) of not hitting scarfs/kids/etc seems not to count
now. I am not a hooligan, and never have been but it's not exactly uncommon
knowledge, is it?
No doubt that Sunday's FA Cup match will be a more hostile affair, which in
turn would make the next trip to Upton Park hostile too. I'm sure that every
decent Stoke City fan (...and there are some!) will wash their hands of
these morons who have once again set our club's image back a few years.
Please don't tar us all with the same brush.
I hope you all have a safe trip up to Staffordshire on Sunday - and that
football is what the day is remembered for."
- J
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Rip it up and start again
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th March 2011
By: Staff Writer
Chadwell Heath is undergoing renovation this week following a series of
complaints regarding the playing surfaces. West Ham United's training ground
has come under heavy criticism of late with both Avram Grant and a number of
his players raising questions over the quality of the pitches, which are
understood to have worsened as a result of the heavy rain and frosts over
the past few weeks. With Grant and the first team squad currently in
Portugal for a few days of 'warm weather training' the ground staff are
working overtime to ensure the pitches at Chadwell are of a suitable
standard for when the party returns later this week. Scott Parker is just
one of the players whose recent injury was said to have been caused by the
state of the training pitches. The Irons' vice-captain was reported to have
slipped on the surface prior to the recent Liverpool game where he damaged a
shoulder.
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All present and correct
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 8th March 2011
By: Staff Writer
Avram Grant will have virtually a fully fit squad to choose from when his
West Ham side travel to Stoke this weekend. Of the current first team squad,
only Junior Stanislas is expected to report for duty injured as the Irons
prepare for Sunday's FA Cup quarter final tie. New signing Robbie Keane and
youngster Jack Collison are amongst those expected to be considered for
selection, with the pair having overcome their respective injuries. Whilst
Keane has only been out of action for a month, 22-year-old Collison's
comeback will mark the end of some 12 months on the sidelines. The last
meeting between the two sides at the Brittania Stadium ended in a 1-1 draw
last September when Kenwyn Jones saved a point for the home side with a
second half equaliser that cancelled out Scott Parker's 32nd minute opener.
But the two meetings since - both at the Boleyn - have ended in resounding
victories for West Ham, giving Avram Grant's side a psychological advantage
as the head into the clubs' fourth meeting of the season.
Stoke v West Ham: 2010/11 season
18 September: Stoke City 1-1 West Ham Utd (Jones; Parker) Premier League
27 October: West Ham Utd 3-1 Stoke City (Parker, Da Costa, Obinna; Jones)
Carling Cup
5 March: West Ham Utd 3-0 Stoke City (Ba, Da Costa, Hitzlsperger)
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Upson - Clean sheets are key
Defender returns to fitness for relegation battle
Last updated: 8th March 2011
SSN
Matthew Upson believes a full-strength defensive backline will boost West
Ham's survival chances this term. The Hammers have hit top form in recent
weeks, winning three games on the bounce to lift them clear of the drop
zone. Avram Grant's men have also done the business in front of goal scoring
11 times in the three games, mostly recently winning 3-0 against Stoke. One
of many West Ham players returning to full fitness, England international
Upson was able to hand his club a huge boost by shaking off a niggling
Achilles problem.
Defence
The game at Upton Park also saw the Hammer's first clean sheet since New
Year's Day, an achievement Upson wants to replicate during in the run-in.
"It is great to get the clean sheet. The win is the most important but clean
sheets are vital," he said. "From now until the end of the season, the more
of them we have, the better chance we give ourselves."
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Hitz enjoying his football
West Ham midfielder is enjoying the moment
Last updated: 8th March 2011
SSN
Thomas Hitzlsperger has revealed his joy at being at the heart of the recent
West Ham revival. The German midfielder had been sidelined for most of the
season with a thigh injury but his return to the team has coincided with a
return to winning ways. He was eye catching in the wins over Liverpool,
Burnley and Stoke, particularly in the last two games, where he scored with
his trademark left-footed thunderbolts.
Enjoying
And, after so long out with injury, he is clearly out to make up for lost
time, telling the club's official website: "I'm enjoying playing my football
again. That's three games and three wins, so what more could I ask for?
"I've scored again on Saturday and it's pure joy being out there. The fans
are behind us and there is a very good atmosphere. "We're in a difficult
phase at the moment, but we seem to be handling the pressure very well. "The
business is not finished yet, though. There is a long way to go and we are
looking forward to it."
Despite just playing only a few games, many fans are starting to get excited
about the midfield triumvirate Hitzlsperger is forming with Mark Noble and
Scott Parker. "I think there is a very good understanding, even though we
haven't played that many games with each other," he added. "All three of us
like to have many touches of the ball and to change our positions and be
creative."
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Der Hammer loves the Hammers
The Sun
Published: 08 Mar 2011
THOMAS HITZLSPERGER admits he is loving life at West Ham. The Germany star
has played three games since making his long-awaited comeback from injury.
He scored on his Hammers debut against Burnley and in the 3-0 win over Stoke
on Saturday. Hitzlsperger said: "I'm enjoying being back playing again.
"That's three games and three wins, so what more could I ask for? "I've
scored again on Saturday and it's a pure joy being out there. "The fans are
behind us and there is a very good atmosphere."
Hitzlsperger has warned his team-mates not to get carried away with their
recent success. He added: "We're in a difficult phase at the moment but we
seem to be handling the pressure very well. "The business is not finished
yet, though. There is a long way to go and we're looking forward to it."
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Der Hammer urges caution despite Hammers revival
Published 13:09 08/03/11 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror
West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has urged his team-mates not to rest
on their laurels following their recent renaissance. The Germany
international joined the Hammers from Lazio in the summer but did not make
his debut until February due to a longstanding thigh injury. Hitzlsperger's
first appearance came in the 5-1 FA Cup fifth-round demolition of Burnley,
before helping West Ham to consecutive Barclays Premier League victories
over Liverpool and Stoke. The 28-year-old has netted twice in his first
three matches and has become a key part of Avram Grant's side, whose recent
form has propelled them out of the relegation zone. While Hitzlsperger
admits he is delighted to be playing again, West Ham still linger
dangerously close to the precipice and he knows there are plenty of hurdles
still to overcome. "I'm enjoying being back playing again," he told West Ham
TV. "That's three games and three wins, so what more could I ask for? "I've
scored again on Saturday and it's a pure joy being out there. The fans are
behind us and there is a very good atmosphere. "We're in a difficult phase
at the moment, but we seem to be handling the pressure very well. "The
business is not finished yet, though. There is a long way to go and we're
looking forward to it."
Much of West Ham's change in fortunes has been due to the midfield
triumvirate of Hitzlsperger, Scott Parker and Mark Noble. Speaking on their
understanding, he added: "I think there is a very good understanding, even
though we haven't played many games with each other. "All three of us in
midfield like to have many touches of the ball and to change our positions
and be creative."
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Tony Cottee Column: West Ham results improved after board Committed to
keeping Grant
Tony Cottee, East London Advertiser Columnist
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
1:12 PM
STABILITY is so important in football and it does not surprise me that since
the owners publically backed Avram Grant, results have improved
considerably. The rumour before the Arsenal game was terrible for the club
and since that 3-0 defeat and we found out Martin O'Neil would not replace
Grant, West Ham have lost only once and taken 11 points from a possible 18.
It's mid-table form and it shows what stability can do. The manager is the
most important person at any football club and when rumour and uncertainty
over his position comes to light it affects the players. Footballers are a
funny breed and when you hear rumours your manager is about to be sacked, or
you yourself have an uncertain future at the club, it has can only have a
negative effect. Letting everybody know Grant is in charge for the remainder
of the season and then keeping themselves out of the limelight has proved to
be a wise decision by the owners. They have also backed the boss with
signings and so far all seem to be paying off, with Demba Ba proving an
immediate hit. He has scored four goals in five games and it must have been
quite a moment for him to score against Stoke on Saturday, the team he
failed to join after failing a medical. Some clubs have stringent medicals,
but in West Ham's situation it looked like a gamble worth taking and so far
it has certainly worked.
Footballers in their mid-20s are bound to have a medical history. They have
been playing football since they were kids and are bound to have picked up
injuries along the way. Ba certainly looked fit on Saturday and the team
played as well on Saturday as they did against Liverpool the week before. It
seems we have changed tact and are trying to outscore teams and at the
moment is working. We have also kept two clean sheets and back to back wins
have led to have led to huge optimism, so much so Carlton Cole believes the
Hammers could finish in the top 10. I know where he's coming from. Everton
are 10th and are only five points above us, so it's not a ridiculous
statement and it shows how close the league is that with two wins, West Ham
go from rock bottom to 17th. However with Spurs and Manchester United on the
horizon, now is not the time to get carried away and survival is the only
thing the Hammers should be aiming for. Mid-table can wait until next
season.
Tony Cottee was talking to Matt Diner
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Hitzlsperger warns West Ham of challenge ahead
8 Mar 2011
Evening Standard
West Ham midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has urged his team-mates not to rest
on their laurels following their recent renaissance. The Germany
international joined the Hammers from Lazio in the summer but did not make
his debut until February due to a longstanding thigh injury. Hitzlsperger's
first appearance came in the 5-1 FA Cup fifth-round demolition of Burnley,
before helping West Ham to consecutive Barclays Premier League victories
over Liverpool and Stoke. The 28-year-old has netted twice in his first
three matches and has become a key part of Avram Grant's side, whose recent
form has propelled them out of the relegation zone.
While Hitzlsperger admits he is delighted to be playing again, West Ham
still linger dangerously close to the precipice and he knows there are
plenty of hurdles still to overcome. "I'm enjoying being back playing
again," he told West Ham TV. "That's three games and three wins, so what
more could I ask for? "I've scored again on Saturday and it's a pure joy
being out there. The fans are behind us and there is a very good atmosphere.
"We're in a difficult phase at the moment, but we seem to be handling the
pressure very well. "The business is not finished yet, though. There is a
long way to go and we're looking forward to it."
Much of West Ham's change in fortunes has been due to the midfield
triumvirate of Hitzlsperger, Scott Parker and Mark Noble. Speaking on their
understanding, he added: "I think there is a very good understanding, even
though we haven't played many games with each other. "All three of us in
midfield like to have many touches of the ball and to change our positions
and be creative."
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Sunderland Res 1 West Ham Res 1
Danny Welbeck and Fraizer Campbell both figured as John Egan's second-half
header secured a point for Sunderland's reserves.
Sunderland Res 1 West Ham United Res 1
Stu Vose
Additional reporting by Kate Smith
Safc.com
Sunderland's Danny Welbeck and Fraizer Campbell both had successful run-outs
as Sunderland's second string stretched their unbeaten record to six games.
Welbeck played the first half while fellow striker Campbell saw 28 minutes
of action off the bench in his first appearance since rupturing knee
ligaments against Manchester City last August. Both men looked sharp and
both could have found the back of the net - though the fact they came
through unscathed and with no ill effects is of far more importance. Keith
Bertschin's side had won five games in a row but this clash with the Hammers
was their most competitive for some time. The Londoners took the lead
through Callum Driver eight minutes before half time, but Sunderland
responded well after the break and eventually levelled when John Egan headed
in Billy Knott's corner. Bertschin's team had a somewhat different look as
Jack Colback and Welbeck came into the side, with Campbell starting on the
bench.
Welbeck had a chance early on, seeing a shot blocked by Callum McNaughton
following good work from Liam Bagnall and Craig Lynch. Welbeck tested the
West Ham keeper's reflexes soon afterwards as Jack Colback teed up the
striker, only for stopper Jake Larkins to block his effort. Ben Wilson was
called into action just after the 25-minute mark as Hammers forward Frank
Nouble made a nuisance of himself in the box. The visitors continued to
apply pressure as moments later Wilson was forced into blocking George
Moncur's strike and a goal attempt from Filip Modelski. At the other end
Ryan Noble went close to breaking the deadlock and Welbeck headed over the
bar, but West Ham were relentless as they continued attacking Wilson's goal
forcing the keeper into making a string of good saves. And the visitors took
the lead when Driver burst into the box to fire the ball past an exposed
Wilson, with the shot appearing to take a deflection on its way in.
Bertschin replaced Welbeck with Matthew Fletcher at the break and Colback
came close with a long-range blast before Campbell entered the fray on 62
minutes in place of Nathan Wilson. The livewire striker almost had an
immediate impact, being crowded out at close range by keeper Larkins and a
defender before seeing another shot blocked. But Sunderland's second-half
play deserved a goal and it came 17 minutes from time when Knott's
inswinging corner was met perfectly by defender Egan, who rose highest to
head into the corner of the goal. A high-tempo clash could have gone either
way at the end, but both sides were forced to settle for a hard-fought
point.
Sunderland: B Wilson, Bagnall, Adams, N Wilson (Campbell, 62), Egan, Laing,
Lynch, Colback (C), R Noble, Welbeck (Fletcher, 46), Luscombe (Knott, 62).
Subs Not Used: Watson, King.
West Ham: Larkins, Modelski, Driver, Lee, McNaughton, Eyjolfsson (Craig,
58), Edgar (Vose, 79), Abdulla, Nouble (C), Moncur (Lletget, 65), Montano.
Subs Not Used: Wootton, McCallum.
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talian side Napoli target West Ham rookie Stech in £2m summer move
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 11:02 PM on 8th March 2011
Daily Mail
West Ham's rookie goalkeeper Marek Stech is a £2m target for Serie A side
Napoli. The Czech, 21, has yet to make his Premier League debut but has
already caught the eye of the Italians.
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West Ham Captain Matthew Upson Intends to Make Top Player of Da Costa
By William Gish (Contributor) on March 8, 2011 - London
http://bleacherreport.com/
Scott Heavey/Getty Images
West Ham United defender Manuel Da Costa is young and dangerous. In the
Hammers' recent league win over Stoke City, 24-year-old Da Costa scored a
brilliant header from teammate Thomas Hitzlsperger's expertly placed free
kick. It was the Portuguese international's third goal in claret and blue.
Speaking with West Ham TV after the match, Hammers captain Matthew Upson
praised da Costa's goal, his ability and his potential. "Da Costa had a very
good game. He's good in the air, got a great leap on him, scored a very good
goal," Upson said.
West Ham acquired the Portuguese defender from Italian Side Fiorentina in
August of 2009. Da Costa made his debut for the Irons in a League Cup defeat
to Bolton on September 22, 2009. He scored his first goal for the side in a
3-3 tie to Hull City in November of the same year. Da Costa has been
featured intermittently in West Ham's line up during the 2010-11 season;
he's had seven league starts, one league appearance as a substitute and two
League Cup starts. Despite this occasional use, he has two goals thus far
for the season from his position in central defense. During his interview
with WHTV, Upson mentioned both the shortcomings and strengths of Da Costa.
"If you gotta criticize him in anyway, you'd say, like experience wise, with
his decision making, he could be a bit calmer," Upson said.
However, Upson went on to state, "When you want someone in a game to go and
attack a ball and get physical with someone, there's not many better.
Physically he's one of the best players I've seen. If he just gets that bit
of composure and calmness to him he could be a very good player."
The development of Da Costa may prove instrumental in Avram Grant's
long-term plan for West Ham. The team has taken to playing a 4-3-3 or 3-4-3
formation with a combination Demba Ba, Carlton Cole, Freddy Piquionne,
Victor Obinna and Robbie Keane up front, Parker, Hitzlsperger, Noble and
Gary O'Neil in the midfield, Upson and Tomkins on central defense and Wayne
Bridge and O'Neil on the wings, with Jacobsen adding to the defensive
structure when called for.
The addition of Da Costa to such a line up adds three important
factors—youth, physicality and attacking threat. Youth, well, that's
self-explanatory. All teams need young, developing talent to one day become
the central figures of the squad as older, established players retire.
As for physicality, West Ham now has all the key components of an excellent
attacking game. Where the squad sometimes lacks is strong, physically
intimidating defense. While Upson and Tomkins play well game in and game
out, their supporting cast is only intermittently dependable. The
development of Da Costa will give the Hammers a hard man option, someone to
put out to play against physical, aggressive attackers like Drogba and
Rooney.
Since the addition of Hitzlsperger and Keane, Grant has radically changed
the formation of the squad, which now plays very aggressive, attacking
football. Da Costa gives Grant an additional attacking option, a defender
who can be used on set pieces to increase the Hammers' scoring potential.
As an experienced EPL hand and captain of West Ham, Upson sees his own
contributions to developing the Portuguese international into a top talent
as integral.
When asked what his role in Da Costa's development is, the England
international replied, "To speak to him, to try to control him in that way,
because he brings a lot of positives to the team. It's just a case of
putting that together in a controlled manner."
Upson went on to reveal a top secret form of communication he uses with Da
Costa, he speaks no English and understands little: eye contact and sign
language. Ninja style!
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