WHUFC.com
All the early team news and background for Saturday's return to npower
Championship action
13.01.2012
PORTSMOUTH v WEST HAM UNITED
npower CHAMPIONSHIP
SATURDAY 14 JANUARY 2012
KICK-OFF: 3PM
FULL AUDIO AND TEXT COMMENTARY - WEST HAM TV
Introduction
• West Ham United return to league action at Portsmouth this Saturday
sitting joint-top of the npower Championship with Southampton. Both teams
have 47 points from 25 games, but the Saints, who go to Nottingham Forest on
Saturday, have a plus 19 goal difference compared to the Hammers' 17.
• Portsmouth, with Michael Appleton in charge after the departure of Steve
Cotterill, are in 17th place with 31 points from their 24 games to date.
• Big Sam's men will go to Fratton Park having amassed more points (24) on
the road than any other npower Championship club this term. West Ham have
won seven times (Doncaster Rovers, Watford, Nottingham Forest, Brighton &
Hove Albion, Hull City, Coventry City and Middlesbrough) and drawn three
(Millwall, Crystal Palace and Birmingham City) of their 13 away matches in
the division this season.
• The Hammers are seeking a first away victory in five attempts including
the 1-0 FA Cup third-round loss at Sheffield Wednesday last Sunday. Sam
Allardyce's side have also lost at Reading (3-0), drawn at Birmingham City
(1-1) and been beaten at Derby County (2-1) since winning 2-0 at
Middlesbrough on 29 November.
• West Ham are looking for their second win double of the season, having
beaten Coventry City at home and away. The previous Portsmouth meeting this
season came on Saturday 10 September at the Boleyn Ground. With Matt Taylor,
Henri Lansbury, Mark Noble and Carlton Cole on target in a seven-goal
thriller that ended 4-3 to the Hammers. To add to the drama, substitute
Freddie Piquionne was sent off in added time against his old club.
The teams were:
West Ham United: Green, O'Brien, Reid, Tomkins, McCartney, Noble, Nolan,
Lansbury, Faubert (Bentley 63), Cole (Piquionne 85), Taylor
Subs not used: Boffin, Faye, Baldock
Goals: Taylor 9, Lansbury 53, Noble 72 pen, Cole 76
Portsmouth: Ashdown, Pearce, Halford, Ben Haim, Mokoena, Lawrence, Mullins,
Norris, Varney, Huseklepp (Ward 78), Benjani (Futacs 83)
Subs not used: Henderson, Rocha, Kanu
Goals: Varney 8, Norris 60, Halford 90 pen
• There are several connections between the clubs with Tal Ben Haim, Hayden
Mullins, Papa Bouba Diop, Gary O'Neil, Frederic Piquionne and Matt Taylor
all having played for both. Hammers development coach Ian Hendon also
appeared for Pompey during his playing days.
Team news
West Ham United
• West Ham United are likely to name a much-changed side to the one which
lost at Sheffield Wednesday last Sunday.
• Robert Green, James Tomkins, Julien Faubert, Papa Bouba Diop, Mark Noble,
Kevin Nolan and Carlton Cole could all return after being rested at
Hillsborough.
• Abdoulaye Faye has returned to full training, having not played since 10
December at Reading. He limped out of the pre-match warm-up against Barnsley
a week later with a calf injury.
• Teenaged duo Dan Potts and Rob Hall may miss out after being involved in
the FA Youth Cup victory against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday night.
• Herita Ilunga has returned from his loan spell at Doncaster Rovers.
• Marek Stech (shoulder), Matt Taylor (calf), and Guy Demel (thigh) are the
only injury absentees.
• Pablo Barrera and Jordan Spence are on season-long loans at Real Zaragoza
and Bristol City respectively.
• Ahmed Abdulla, Eoin Wearen and Cristian Montano, (Dagenham & Redbridge),
Peter Kurucz (Rochdale), George Moncur (AFC Wimbledon) and Callum Driver
(Burton Albion) are out on temporary loans at present - although Montano is
due back at the Boleyn after Saturday's game at home to Hereford United.
Portsmouth
• Veteran striker Nwankwo Kanu could miss out with a back injury that kept
him out of the Chelsea cup game last Sunday. It means Adam Webster, a
17-year-old striker, could retain his place in the squad.
• Former Portugal defender Ricardo Rocha is struggling with a knock, while
winger Luke Varney is battling to be fit following a medial knee ligament
problem.
Last time out
Sunday 8 January 2012
FA Cup with Budweiser third round
Chelsea 4-0 Portsmouth
Portsmouth: Henderson, Ward, Rocha (Williams 70), Pearce, Halford, Mokoena,
Lawrence, Mullins (Huseklepp 67), Norris, Futacs, Kitson
Subs: Ashdown, Ben Haim, Hreidarsson, Webster, Benjani
Sunday 8 January 2012
FA Cup with Budweiser third round
Sheffield Wednesday 1-0 West Ham United
West Ham United: Boffin, O'Brien, Reid, McCartney, Potts, O'Neil (Montenegro
78), Lansbury, Collison, Sears (Hall 72), Carew (Nouble 65), Baldock
Subs not used: Green, Tomkins, Diop, R Lee
Previous meetings
• The teams' last meeting at Fratton Park was a goalless draw on Tuesday 26
January 2010 - the first match under the club's new owners David Sullivan
and David Gold:
West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Tomkins (Da Costa 81), Upson, Spector,
Diamanti (Stanislas 87), Kovac, Behrami, Noble, Collison, Nouble (Cole 73)
Subs not used: Stech, Daprela, Jimenez, Sears
Portsmouth: Begovic, Finnan, Kaboul, Wilson, Hreidarsson, Basinas, Mokoena,
Mullins (Vanden Borre 64), Boateng, Utaka, Piquionne (Webber 73)
Subs not used: Ashdown, Ben Haim, Hughes, Ritchie
• The London side are unbeaten in five games against the team from the south
coast.
• This will be the 35th meeting between the two clubs in the Premier League,
Football League or knockout competitions. West Ham United have 14 wins, with
six draws. Including Southern League and War League fixtures, the clubs have
met 79 times, with West Ham winning 36 times and Pompey 29.
Us and Them
• West Ham United's biggest-ever win at Portsmouth was the 4-1 Premier
League victory achieved at Fratton Park on 26 December 2008. Craig Bellamy
scored twice, while Jack Collison and Carlton Cole were also on target.
• The biggest crowd to witness a Portsmouth versus West Ham United fixture
was the 47,614 who turned out for Pompey's 2-0 FA Cup fifth-round success at
Fratton Park on 11 February 1939. Portsmouth would go on to win the cup that
season.
• West Ham United edged Portsmouth out for promotion to the Premier League
at the end of the 1992/93 season. The Hammers finished second in Division
One, beating third-place Pompey to promotion by scoring one goal more than
the south coast side.
• Portsmouth were mathematically relegated from the Premier League on 10
April 2010 following West Ham United's 1-0 home win over Sunderland.
Brazilian Ilan got the all-important goal.
• John Hamilton and John Blackwood (1904), Sidney Smith (April 1905), Harry
Stapley (December 1905), H.Eastwood (1908), R.Beale (1914) and Jim Harris
(1930) all made their West Ham United debuts against Portsmouth.
• Former West Ham United managers Harry Redknapp and Avram Grant both
enjoyed spells in charge at Portsmouth, with Redknapp twice taking the reins
at Fratton Park. Redknapp led the club to promotion to the Premier League in
2002/03 and FA Cup glory in 2008, before Grant led Portsmouth to FA Cup
final defeat to Chelsea and relegation from the Premier League in 2010.
• John Carew and Erik Huseklepp have partnered one another in attack for
Norway on a number of occasions in recent seasons.
• Aaron Mokoena played under Sam Allardyce at Blackburn Rovers during the
2008/09 season.
Head to head
(Last six meetings, Premier League unless stated)
10 September 2011 West Ham United 4-3 Portsmouth
26 January 2010 - Portsmouth 0-0 West Ham United
26 December 2009 - West Ham United 2-0 Portsmouth
26 December 2008 - Portsmouth 1-4 West Ham United
15 November 2008 - West Ham United 0-0 Portsmouth
8 April 2008 - West Ham United 0-1 Portsmouth
Overall record v Portsmouth (all competitions): W 14, D 6, L 14
Ten-year records
West Ham United
2010/11 Premier League 20th (33 points)
2009/10 Premier League 17th (35 points)
2008/09 Premier League 9th (51 points)
2007/08 Premier League 10th (49 points)
2006/07 Premier League 15th (41 points)
2005/06 Premier League 9th (55 points)
2004/05 Championship 6th (73 points - promoted to Premier League via
play-offs)
2003/04 Championship 4th (74 points)
2002/03 Premier League 18th (42 points - relegated to Championship)
2001/02 Premier League 7th (53 points)
Portsmouth
2010/11 Championship 16th (58 points)
2009/10 Premier League 20th (19 points - relegated to Championship)
2008/09 Premier League 14th (41 points)
2007/08 Premier League 8th (57 points)
2006/07 Premier League 9th (54 points)
2005/06 Premier League 17th (38 points)
2004/05 Premier League 16th (39 points)
2003/04 Premier League 13th (45 points)
2002/03 Championship 1st (98 points - promoted to Premier League)
2001/02 Championship 17th (53 points)
Referee
• Saturday's referee will be Kevin Friend.
• A member of the Select Group of Premier League officials, Friend took
charge of the Hammers' 1-0 win at Brighton & Hove Albion on Monday 24
October.
• Friend started refereeing at the age of 13.
• He began officiating in the Leicestershire Senior League and Midland
Football Alliance before being promoted to the National List of Assistant
Referees in 2000 and the National List of Referees in 2003.
• He was promoted to the Select Group ahead of the 2009/10 season and took
charge of his first Premier League fixture on 20 September 2009, with
Wolverhampton Wanderers beating Fulham 2-1.
• Before this season, the official had refereed West Ham United just once
previously in a competitive fixture - the goalless Premier League draw with
Blackpool at the Boleyn Ground on 13 November 2010. Friend was also in
charge for the SBOBET Cup victory over Spanish side Deportivo La Coruna on 7
August 2010.
• Saturday's assistant referees will be Darren Blunden and Ian Cooper, with
Iain Williamson acting as fourth official.
Old boys
• Papa Bouba Diop made 72 first-team appearances for Portsmouth between
August 2007 and May 2010, winning the FA Cup in 2008 and finishing as
runner-up in the same competition in 2010.
• Matt Taylor spent six seasons at Portsmouth between 2002 and 2008, winning
the Division One title in 2003, making 203 first-team appearances and
scoring 29 goals.
• Gary O'Neil joined Portsmouth at the age of 13, going on to make 192
appearances and score 17 goals for the club before joining Middlesbrough for
£5m in August 2007.
• Frederic Piquionne scored eleven goals in 45 appearances on loan at
Portsmouth from French club Olympique Lyonnais during the 2009/10 season.
The France striker helped Pompey to reach the FA Cup final, where they lost
to Chelsea.
• Hayden Mullins joined West Ham United from Crystal Palace for a bargain
£600,000 in October 2003, going on to make 213 first-team appearances,
scoring seven goals before moving to Portsmouth in January 2009. He started
the 2010 FA Cup final defeat by Chelsea.
• Tal Ben Haim made 12 appearances in all competitions during a loan spell
at West Ham United between July 2010 and January 2011.
• Former West Ham United managers Harry Redknapp and Avram Grant both
enjoyed spells in charge at Portsmouth, with Redknapp twice taking the reins
at Fratton Park. Redknapp led the club to promotion to the Premier League in
2002/03 and FA Cup glory in 2008, before Grant led Portsmouth to FA Cup
final defeat to Chelsea and relegation from the Premier League in 2010.
• Other players to have played for both teams include: Greg Campbell, Lee
Chapman, Jermain Defoe, Bill Ford, Hayden Foxe, Shaka Hislop, Billy James,
Glen Johnson, Bill Joyce, Alex McDonald, Nicky Morgan, Sebastien Schemmel,
Peter Shearing, Teddy Sheringham, Roy Smith, Stephen Smith, Pavel Srnicek,
Alan Stephenson, Ron Tindall, Svetoslav Todorov, Charlie Whitchurch.
Up next
• West Ham United welcome Nottingham Forest to the Boleyn Ground for a 3pm
kick-off on 21 January with Portsmouth travelling west to Cardiff City on
the same day
General information
• The Hammers have sold their entire allocation of 3,187 standard tickets.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers sign John
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has boosted his defensive options with the signing of George
John from FC Dallas
13.01.2012
Highly-regarded American defender George John has become West Ham United's
first new recruit of the transfer window. The imposing 24-year-old has
signed on an initial two-month loan until 5 March from Major League Soccer
side FC Dallas, with a view to a permanent signing. John, who had been
tracked by several European clubs, will wear No25. Speaking to West Ham TV,
John said: "I am happy to be here, excited by the opportunity and
enthusiastic about playing under the manager and getting better. "I feel
good and hopefully I can get into some training and get up to the pace."
Although new to the English game, he said he was well aware of the Hammers'
standing. "I know West Ham is traditionally a very strong club, one of the
strongest clubs in England. I am looking forward to playing with the team
and hopefully helping them in their promotion aims. They are in a good
position in the Championship."
The defender said it might take him a little time to get up to speed as,
although he has been training, he has not played a competitive match since
26 October. "We will see how it goes. Maybe it will take two or three weeks
to give me some time to develop and get back in the swing of things.
Hopefully it will be a bit faster but who knows. Hopefully I can impress and
get some game time with the first team. I am really looking forward to it.
"I have been to the training ground and met the manager. I am excited about
being coached by him and developing my game. I want to learn a lot and
understand about English football and just adapt my game."
The Washington-born centre-back has yet to be capped by the United States
and is also eligible to play for Greece through his parents. He has trained
with both national teams. After a successful collegiate career with the
Washington Huskies, John has risen to prominence over the last three MLS
seasons, making 95 appearances in all competitions for Dallas since being
recruited in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. He becomes the fifth American to sign
for the club after John Harkes, Ian Feuer and Jonathan Spector, with
compatriot Sebastian Lletget, an American Under-23 international, in the
club's development squad. Dan Potts has also been capped in a friendly by
the US at U20 level, qualifying through his dad Steve, the former Hammers
defender who was born in Hartford, Connecticut. whufc.com will be the place
to be for all the official transfer news first and fastest this window, with
the club expecting further activity before the deadline on 31 January. You
can also keep up to date with the latest from the Boleyn Ground
@whufc_official via Twitter.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam welcomes George
WHUFC.com
The manager has given his verdict on his first recruit of the January
transfer window
13.01.2012
Sam Allardyce has welcomed George John to West Ham United and is looking
forward to seeing his new defender in action sooner rather than later. The
24-year-old became the Hammers first new recruit of the transfer window on
Thursday and has joined on an initial two-month loan with a view to a
permanent transfer from FC Dallas. Big Sam has long been keeping tabs on
John's progress in Major League Soccer and was delighted to get his man
ahead of significant interest from leading clubs at home and abroad. "George
is going to challenge our central defensive trio of Abdoulaye Faye, James
Tomkins and Winston Reid in terms of his ability, his determination and his
dream," the manager told West Ham TV. "His dream has been to play in this
country, and it very nearly materialised last summer with the chance to play
in the Premier League. "For whatever reason that didn't quite happen. We
have got a loan period now where we can have a good look at him. If he shows
the potential we know he has, we can turn it into a more permanent deal.
"Finding a good central defender at 24 is not an easy task and we have
worked very hard to get to this stage and hopefully it will be very
successful for both of us."
Big Sam confirmed that John has only just started full training with his new
team-mates but that the centre-back was fully focused on quickly forcing his
way into contention. He pointed to the swift impact of other MLS loanees in
this country when asked about the chances John making his claret and blue
bow soon. "He has been keeping himself extremely fit," the manager added.
"We have all seen the impact Landon Donovan made on Everton when he came on
loan. Hopefully we can get George settled in pretty quickly and he can show
the form and potential we have seen while he has played in MLS."
The United States has long had a hold on the manager's attention, not least
after his own playing spell in Tampa, Florida in the 80s. He added: "There
is a huge amount of talent in MLS. Look what Clint Dempsey has done for
Fulham over the last few years, he has been one of the outstanding players
in the Premier League.
"Stuart Holden is another who has made a big impact at Bolton. Unfortunately
they haven't had him for most of this season because of injury and look at
the impact that has had on them. They have really missed him. "Lots of
players have come over and even more are coming because the standards over
there is getting better. When they get here they are determined to do well
because of the dream to play in England. We are the golden country in terms
of football."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan exclusive on West Ham TV
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan spoke to West Ham TV after watching the Under-18s impress in the
FA Youth Cup
13.01.2012
Kevin Nolan joined a host of first-team players to cheer on West Ham
United's Under-18s as they safely booked their passage through to the FA
Youth Cup fifth round. The skipper, along with Academy graduates Mark Noble,
Freddie Sears, James Tomkins and Jack Collison, took time out of their
preparations for Saturday's trip to Portsmouth to support the youngsters as
they ran out 4-1 winners against Brighton and Hove Albion on Wednesday
evening. While the Hammers captain was impressed by what he saw on the night
from Tony Carr's side, his focus quickly swtiched back to first-team affairs
and getting three points at Fratton Park.
"The mood's been great this week," Nolan told West Ham TV. "We're
disappointed about going out of the FA Cup last weekend but the league is
our bread and butter and it's about us making sure we get promoted and we've
got to get back. All of the lads have been really fresh and are looking good
and being upbeat and looking forward to trying to get the right result on
Saturday."
Nolan was particularly impressed with the way Rob Hall and Dan Potts
seamlessly stepped back in to youth-team action, after featuring for the
first team on Sunday at Sheffield Wednesday. "The boys were brilliant and
had a very good start. When you've got Rob Hall and Pottsy, who dropped down
from the weekend, you come here hoping that they are professional and do it
the right way. They were both magnificent as well as the rest of the team.
"It always difficult when you play at Hillsborough in front of thousands and
thousands of people and then you come to the Boleyn where there aren't so
many. It was a good test of their mentality and temperament and both of them
responded fantastically well. Nick Haycock and Tony Carr have been brilliant
and I thought the lads were fantastic and thoroughly deserved their win."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moncur eyes Dons debut
WHUFC.com
George Moncur could make his npower Football League debut for AFC Wimbledon
on Saturday
13.01.2012
George Moncur is excited. After an encouraging first half of the 2011/12
season that saw the first-year professional join the West Ham United squad
on their pre-season tour to Switzerland and twice be named as a substitute
by manager Sam Allardyce, the midfielder has joined AFC Wimbledon on loan.
Blessed with superb technique, an expansive range of passing and the ability
to shoot from distance with either foot, Moncur has added a physical side
this season that has taken his game to a new level. The 18-year-old linked
up with the npower League Two club earlier this week and is set to make his
Football League debut in Saturday's fixture at Port Vale. "I think it will
be a great experience," he told the official website. "Hopefully I can show
everyone what I can do in league football and keep doing what I've been
doing this season and keep pushing on. "I think I have developed a bit
physically this year and got stronger, which has helped me to improve my
game. When the matches get tough, I am in the middle of the park and need to
be able to battle as well as let my football do the talking. It has helped
me a lot. "I just love playing football and I always give my all. I believe
in myself and my ability and just want to show what I can do at AFC
Wimbledon."
Moncur will link up with a familiar face at Kingsmeadow in the shape of
former Hammers defender Callum McNaughton, who joined the Dons on a
permanent basis following a successful loan spell earlier this month. The
midfielder is hoping his old team-mate will help him to learn the ropes of
playing in League Two. "I don't know what I am expecting, to be honest. It
is going to be a more physical battle but hopefully I can get the ball down
and play like I do when I'm playing for the development squad and get myself
a couple of goals. "The manager Terry Brown told me that they are looking to
play football and they are looking for me to make things happen. Callum is
there already and I also remember a couple of other players from when I was
playing schoolboy football."
While he may be out of immediate sight for the next month, Moncur is
determined not to be out of Big Sam's thoughts for too long. "The Gaffer
said that there would not be many places up for grabs at West Ham for the
time being, but that my time will come and I should go out on loan and play
some games and see what happens. "Rob Hall did the same thing earlier this
season and he came back and played for the first team. Hopefully I can do
the same thing as him." Moncur could be one of ?? loanees in action this
weekend. In the Championship, Jordan Spence's Bristol City travel to
Brighton and Hove Albion. In League One, Peter Kurucz's Rochdale host
Stevenage. In League Two, Cristian Montano, Ahmed Abdulla and Eoin Wearen
will all hope to feature as Dagenham and Redbridge welcome Hereford United,
while Callum Driver's Burton Albion head for Plymouth Argyle.
Further afield. Sebastian Lletget is on international duty at a United
States U23 training camp in Carson, California, while Pablo Barrera's Real
Zaragoza host Getafe in Spain's Primera Division on Saturday evening.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Portsmouth v West Ham
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 11:32 GMT, Friday, 13 January 2012
Npower Championship
Venue: Fratton Park Date: Saturday 14 January Kick-off: 1500 GMT Coverage:
Watch highlights on The Football League Show; listen on BBC Radio 5 live and
BBC local radio; text commentary on the BBC Sport website
TEAM NEWS
Portsmouth have injury doubts over Ricardo Rocha (calf), Hayden Mullins
(calf) and Luke Varney (knee). Striker Varney will have a late fitness test
and will not be risked if there are any doubts over his recovery.
West Ham's only injury worries are defender Guy Demel (thigh) and midfielder
Matt Taylor (calf). Having rested goalkeeper Rob Green, James Tomkins and
Kevin Nolan for the FA Cup, manager Sam Allardyce could recall the trio for
the clash.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
• This is the 35th competitive meeting between these clubs, and there
is nothing between them, having both won 14 of the previous 34.
• West Ham won the reverse fixture 4-3 in September, and are in line
to complete the double over Portsmouth for the fourth time and first since
the 1992/93 second tier season.
• The Hammers need to score once to total 50 competitive goals against
Portsmouth, and Pompey need three goals to do the same to West Ham.
Portsmouth
• Mid-table Portsmouth, who are eight points below the play-offs and
seven points above the relegation zone, are seeking a fourth win in seven
league games, and their second back-to-back victories of this Championship
campaign.
• Three points would also provide Pompey with their 600th win in
second level league football.
• Michael Appleton, the second youngest manager in the Championship,
has witnessed three wins, three draws and three defeats in the nine league
and cup games since he took over at Fratton Park.
West Ham United
• West Ham need a better result that Southampton, and a two-goal swing
to go top of the Championship table for the first time this season.
• But the Hammers, humbled by Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup, have
only registered two wins in six league outings.
• Sam Allardyce, the oldest manager in the Championship, is in charge
of the club with the most "away" points in the division (24), and the
strongest away defence, with just 11 goals conceded in 13 games.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United sign FC Dallas defender George John
BBC.co.uk
Page last updated at 16:30 GMT, Friday, 13 January 2012
West Ham United have signed FC Dallas defender George John on loan, with the
option to make it a permanent transfer when it expires on 5 March. The
24-year-old, who has made 95 appearances for the MLS side, has trained with
the United States and Greece and is eligible for both. He told the Hammers
website: "Maybe it will take two or three weeks to give me some time to
develop and get back into the swing of things. "Hopefully it will be a bit
faster." He looked set to join Blackburn last summer but the deal never went
through. West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said: "Finding a good central
defender at 24 is not an easy task and we have worked very hard to get to
this stage. Hopefully it will be successful for both of us." Dallas head
coach Schellas Hyndman told his club's website: "This is an opportunity for
George to raise his play to another level. "He has the opportunity to spend
time with a club rich in tradition, playing in one of the top leagues as
they work to earn a promotion back to the Premiership. I have no doubt we
will see an even better centre-back at the end of this period."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Piquionne gone?
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th January 2012
By: Staff Writer
The Daily Mail is claiming that Wolverhampton Wanderers have signed West Ham
striker Freddie Piquionne on a free transfer. The once-capped French
international has endured a dreadful season in the Championship so far,
having managed to score just two goals in 20 appearances. With Hammers fans
having lost their patience with a player signed by Avram Grant in 2010, Sam
Allardyce recently followed suit when he dropped Piquionne having expressed
his dissatisfaction at the former Portsmouth striker's performances this
season. As reported here on KUMB.com yesterday interest had been shown in
the 33-year-old, who has been told that he is surplus to requirements,
earlier this week. Wolves - who were one of the teams that beat West Ham to
safety last season - are desperate to improve their firepower having sunk to
16th place in the Premier League, just one point above the drop zone. Just
why Wolves manager Mick McCarthy sees the inept Piquionne (who has never
scored more than once during a match for West Ham and has a strike rate of
one in six) as the answer to his prayers is anyone's guess.
Freddie Piquionne - WHUFC stats
2010/11: Pld 41; Gls 9; Yellow 2; Red 1.
2011/12: Pld 20; Gls 2; Red 1.
Total: Pld 61; Gls 11; Yellow 2; Red 2.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Third man arrested: Spurs deny involvement
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 14th January 2012
By: Staff Writer
A third man has been arrested in relation to the theft of private documents
belonging to West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady. According to a story
by Paul Kelso in the Telegraph, a former partner at PKF - the firm hired by
Tottenham Hotspur to investigate the Olympic Stadium bidding process - was
taken into custody on Wednesday and arrested on suspicion of fraud. Howard
Hill left PKF, an accountancy firm with 23 offices based across the UK that
employs more than 1,500 partners, in December last year - four months after
it was first revealed that West Ham United had called in Police to
investigate the theft of personal records. Hill, who was employed by PKF as
a senior corporate investigator, is understood to have been involved with
the case.
The Sunday Times opened a can of worms back in July of last year when they
ran a story accusing West Ham of corruption with regards to their Olympic
Stadium bid.
The Times' story claimed that United had 'paid secret cash' to an employee
of the Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC) - an employee was who later
revealed to be involved in a personal relationship with a member of West Ham
United's Olympic Stadium team. Sensing foul play, West Ham launched their
own investigation and within 48 hours released a statement confirming that
they were taking legal action against both the newspaper and Tottenham
Hotspur, who hired PKF. The OLPC called in Police a week later to
investigate claims that its chief executive had had his telephone records
stolen.
At the beginning of August, West Ham followed suit and confirmed they had
also called in Police "with regard to the serious matter of a private
investigator acting unlawfully, reportedly under instruction by Tottenham
Hotspur".
Following the October collapse of West Ham United's move to Stratford, when
the original decision to award the use of the Olympic Stadium post-2012
games was overturned, the Metropolitan Police arrested a 29-year-old man in
connection with their investigation in November. A second man, aged 39 from
Surrey, was arrested a week later "on suspicion of fraud offences". Spurs
responded to the latest arrest with a brief statement. "Tottenham Hotspur
did not instruct PKF to engage in any unlawful activity and PKF have
confirmed that they did not," they said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Porstmouth v West Ham United
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 13th January 2012
By: Preview Percy
Preview Percy is unwell. He's got a temperature higher than Alastair Cook's
batting average, he aches all over and he just wants to stay in bed. Did we
leave him alone? Did we heck. We poked him with a stick and this is what he
came up with. John Northcutt will be along to round things off later.....
Next we traipse down the A3 through the brand new shiny tunnel at Hindhead
to visit Portsmouth for a 3pm Saturday kick off. Going by train? Give
yourself a decent amount of time as engineering diversions will send you all
round the houses between Clapham Junction & Woking adding anything up to an
hour to the normal journey time,
Our hosts for the weekend currently occupy 17th spot. Although this is
nearer in position to the bottom than the top, in terms of points they are
virtually equidistant from both the relegation places (7 points clear) and
the play-off slots (8 points adrift).
Current form isn't too shabby – they've won three (2-0 at home to Watford,
1-0 away at Burnley and 2-1 at home to Coventry) drawn two (both 1-1 at
home, to Leicester and Southampton) and just lost the once (1-0 at
Millwall).
Since we met earlier in the season there's been a change at the helm (an
apposite metaphor given the city's maritime heritage). Steve Cotterill
legged it to Forest in October. His replacement is Michael Appleton whose
name I can guarantee met with the response "who?" from just about everyone
not connected with West Brom. He's a young boss – 36 I believe – which is a
consequence of his having to retire from playing at a ludicrously young age
following a knee injury. Serious though the injury was – cruciate knee
ligaments are not exactly what I'd call "fun" - all concerned were
optimistic that an operation would sort things out. Unfortunately the
surgeon involved bodged the job putting an end to the player's career. The
butcher responsible ended up having to shell out compensation both to West
Brom and to Appleton (or at least his insurance company did) but I'm sure
that won't have made that moment of realisation any less painful for him.
If that part of Appleton's life was a bit soap opera-ish what happened
shortly after his arrival at Fratton Park served as a constant reminder that
life at Pompey is a constant episode of the late and unlamented Sky football
soap "Dream Team". The current owner (sort of) is Vladimir Antonov, who
resigned as chairman at the end of November when the club's parent company
went into administration. This change took place after Antonov was arrested
at his London offices on the back of a warrant issued by the Lithuanian
authorities following investigations into asset stripping at a Lithuanian
bank. He's currently out on bail – though if I were a betting man I'd
suggest that it'll be a while before he sees his passport again.
The club are apparently close to naming new owners – an Italian by the name
of Joseph Cala has been talking himself up of late, though no-one at the
club will be drawn on specifics at the moment. After all that's occurred in
recent years you can hardly blame them. This won't see the end of their
problems – the parent company's administration means that a points deduction
could still be on the cards once the authorities have worked out what the
hell is going on.
Of course when considering legal matters one should remember that the court
case involving (Editor's note we removed the next ten pages of text on legal
grounds!).
In goal the first choice is Jamie Ashdown. He's seen higher profile 'keepers
come and go over the years – so much so that it took him until this year to
make his 100th league start for the club, though it's fair to say that he is
now firmly in possession of the no.1 shirt.
With five to his name,joint top scorer at the moment is the
unfortunately-named David Norris. I suppose that with the headlines that the
club have attracted in recent years it would not have been a surprise to
discover that the headline "Norris jailed for Lawrence murder" referred to
Portsmouth. Happily, Pompey skipper Liam Lawrence is still in the rudest of
health and, as far as I'm aware, has not been targeted by dyslexic racist
thugs - though I expect hewas bombarded with sympathy tweets from Spurs
fans.
We are likely to see something of Hayden Mullins, who spent six or so years
at the Boleyn before leaving for Pompey in 2009. Mullins was their player of
the year last term. He's one of those "unsung" players – nobody ever looked
at the team sheet and said "oh good Mullins is playing" but he rarely lets
anyone down.
Another ex-Hammer in the squad is defender Tal Ben-Haim. His position was a
bit complicated last year – we had him on loan then he went back to Pompey
who couldn't afford to have him back. It all got sorted out during last
summer's takeover (I think it was last summer's – I sort of lose track with
Pompey I'm afraid) and he's now a regular.
One we won't be seeing is defender Joe Mattock. He arrived in November on
loan as a going away present from boss Appleton's former employers West Brom
and was widely tipped to return to the South coast for the rest of the
season. However the Baggies have injury problems of their own and decided to
keep the player at home as cover.
Striking options include Dave Kitson – 3 goals in the league this season and
Luke Varney who is joint top scorer with Norris on 5. Varney's struggling
with a knee problem at present which may see a start for Benjiani, who
arrived from Man City in the close season. He's spent most of the season on
the bench – one goal this season tells its own story. Pompey were fined
£15,000 a few years back over "irregularities" relating to the player's
first spell at the club and subsequent departure to the Citizens. That this
transfer involved the likes of (name removed on legal grounds) and (name
removed on legal grounds) should come as no surprise.
What about us? Well for all the tears over our early departure from the Cup
is anyone really that gutted? Promotion has to be the priority and we'll see
a much changed starting XI as the likes of Green, Faubert, Tomkins, Papa,
Nolan, Cole all come into contention.
The only guaranteed absences are Matt Taylor – another few weeks maybe – and
Guy Demel (ditto) as Faye is apparently fit and available after his recent
injury travails.
After the cup this has a "back to school" feel about it and it'll go a long
way to establishing how the next few weeks go. Having said that I don't see
us going all out all guns blazing – the manager's tactics seemingly
depending on the match venue rather than the opponents. 4-5-1 then (or 4-3-3
if you got an Allardyce Abacus for Christmas.
At time of writing there have been no arrivals on the transfer front, though
smothered as I am with a cold I haven't been into the television lounge at
the rest home to have a look. In recent weeks we have actually had the
problem of failing to convert chances that the manager insisted we had
earlier in the season. If you fail to take chances you stand the chance of
letting a late one in which can cost you dearly. Coventry nearly pinched a
late point from a match that they could easily have finished 5-0 to us and
(albeit with us fielding a second string XI) Sheffield Wednesday went one
further in the cup. New goalscoring striker please (like there's millions
out there available!)
Prediction? I'll go for a 1-0 to us – and Forest to surprise Southampton!
Enjoy the game!
When Last We Met: 4-3 at the Boleyn – a result that flattered our opponents
slightly containing as it did a third goal from the spot following a dive
equally as good as anything contained in the Anfield coaching manual.
Referee: Kevin Friend Third time in charge of the Irons, the last time out
being the 1-0 away win at Brighton.
Danger Man: Dave Kitson Awkward forward who might be a pain at set pieces
and we've looked dodgy at those of late.
Daft fact of the week: The respected author Jonathan Meades once wrote a
book called "Pompey" in which the city was populated by "vile, corrupt,
flawed freaks". He later admitted that he had never visited the city, which
made the accuracy of the book all the more remarkable.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Transfer latest: Jan 13/14
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 13th January 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham continue to keep a number of irons in the fire as the transfer
window approaches the halfway stage.
George John was finally confirmed as the club's first signing of the
transfer window earlier today, 48 hours after his agent revealed that a deal
had been concluded. A player who Sam Allardyce has been keen on for some
time, John is here on loan until March with an option to make the deal
permanent. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, that is expected to happen.
West Ham, as widely reported elsewhere, have indeed ceased the chase for
Huddersfield striker Jordan Rhodes. The Terriers have maintained throughout
the process that they are unwilling to part with the Scottish international
and West Ham have reluctantly accepted the situation - for now. However
movement is still possible later in the month should Sam Allardyce not land
a striker in the meantime.
One possible alternative for Allardyce is Marvin Sordell at Watford. Whilst
we understand that reports of a £2million bid from West Ham are premature
the player is, unlike Rhodes, almost certainly available and of interest to
United. The Hornets are looking for a figure of around £5million for the
20-year-old.
One area in which the Hammers are sorely lacking is wide midfield and
unsurprisingly Big Sam has made a number of enquiries with regards to
solving that particular problem. One player who he remains keen on is free
agent Marvan Celik, a Swedish Under-21 international who spent a few days on
trial at Chadwell Heath last October. Celik has been strongly linked with
Glasgow Rangers, who have offered him a contract this week.
Still in the same area, another target on Allardyce's radar is Reading's
Jimmy Kebe - the player whose antics led to Jack Collison's first dismissal
of his career at the Majedski Stadium recently. Another mooted deal that has
been widely discussed, the French-born Malian international - who is out of
contract this summer - is also mulling over an improved three-year contract
offer from his current club.
One player definitely not coming to the Boleyn Ground as things stand is
Tottenham's Verdan Corluka. Stories linking him with a move to West Ham are
understood to have been wide of the mark, with Sam Allardyce never having
shown an interest in signing the out-of-favour Croatian international.
Another likely to miss the boat is Japanese international Ryoichi Maeda, who
has been training with West Ham at Chadwell Heath since Tuesday. Despite
reports to the contrary, the 30-year-old - who is currently contracted to
J-League outfit Jubilo Iwata - is said by the Evening Standard to have
failed to have impressed.
Maeda was previously invited to West Ham for a trial last year, but refused
on the advice of his agent who said the player was 'too good' to trial for a
club. Not so, it would seem. The five triallists who featured in Ian
Hendon's Development Squad's 3-0 win over Orient on Monday have also failed
to win a contract.
With regards to outward movement, news is thin on the ground although both
Freddy Piquionne and John Carew are understood to have been the subject of
enquiries from other clubs; no firm offers have been made at this time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce lands first signing
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 13th January 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have completed the signing of American defender George John. The
24-year-old was unveiled as United's first signing of the transfer window -
as revealed here on KUMB earlier in the week - but is not expected to go
staright into Sam Allardyce's first team plans. John, who signs on loan with
an option to make the deal permanent, explained to whufc.com: "Maybe it will
take two or three weeks to give me some time to develop and get back in the
swing of things. Hopefully I can impress and get some game time with the
first team. "I have been to the training ground and met the manager. I am
excited about being coached by him and developing my game. I want to learn a
lot and understand about English football and just adapt my game."
The FC Dallas central defender was called up to join the USA national squad
for the first time last month, but withdrew so that he may travel to Europe
to find a new club as his current contract expires in the summer. John spoke
with a number of clubs before agreeing to join West Ham - including Premier
League Blackburn Rovers, who agreed a seven-figure fee with FC Dallas before
talks broke down over personal terms.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Grant back in work
KUMB.com
Filed: Friday, 13th January 2012
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers manager Avram Grant is set to be confirmed as the new boss of
Serbian champions Partizan Belgrade. novosti.rs report this morning that the
Israeli - who had been out of work since being fired at West Ham following a
disastrous first season in charge - was named as replacement for the
outgoing Aleksandar Stanojevic at a board meeting this morning. The website
states that Belgrade offered the vacancy to Grant after being satisfied that
he can "achieve results that are planned and expected by the army of fans",
despite the 56-year-old having failed miserably at West Ham and in his
previous post at Portsmouth.
Grant was hired by David Gold and David Sullivan shortly after they had
fired Gianfranco Zola, who had kept West Ham in the Premier League the
previous season despite having been forced to work on a shoestring. West Ham
finished bottom of the Premier League in 2010/11 having gained just 33
points - some seven points adrift of safety.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam denies Davies interest
Bolton striker not on Allardyce's radar
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo. Last Updated:
January 13, 2012 2:51pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has rejected reports linking him with a move for
Bolton forward Kevin Davies. Reports earlier this week claimed Davies was a
transfer target for West Ham during this month's transfer window as
Allardyce looks to bolster his attacking options. Bolton chief Owen Coyle
has already moved to deny the rumours as he plans to keep the 34-year-old at
the Reebok Stadium. Allardyce is a big admirer of Davies having signed him
while he was in charge of Bolton, but he insists he has no plans to bring
the player to Upton Park. "There's nothing in that as far as I'm concerned,"
said Allardyce. "I haven't spoken to Owen Coyle. At the moment I don't know
anything about that scenario."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Portsmouth v West Ham preview
Last updated: 13th January 2012
SSN
Team news for Saturday afternoon's Championship clash between Portsmouth and
West Ham at Fratton Park. Portsmouth have injury doubts over Ricardo Rocha,
Hayden Mullins and Luke Varney. Defender Rocha limped out of Sunday's FA Cup
defeat at Chelsea after aggravating the calf injury which had kept him out
of the previous two matches and is unlikely to be involved. Mullins also
came off at Stamford Bridge with a calf problem but manager Michael Appleton
is hopeful the midfielder will be fit to face his former club. Striker
Varney this week had an injection in a bid to speed up his recovery from the
knee injury which has sidelined him for over a month but he will not be
risked if there are any doubts over his fitness. Pompey hope to re-sign
left-back Joe Mattock on loan from West Brom.
West Ham have the rare luxury of an almost fully-fit squad for the trip. The
Hammers were riddled with injuries and suspensions over Christmas and New
Year, but now only defender Guy Demel (thigh) and midfielder Matt Taylor
(calf) remain in the treatment room. Boss Sam Allardyce rested his key men
in the FA Cup defeat at Sheffield Wednesday last weekend so goalkeeper Rob
Green, defender James Tomkins, skipper Kevin Nolan, fellow midfielder Mark
Noble and striker Carlton Cole are all set to return to the starting
line-up. Youngsters Dan Potts and Robert Hall played in the Youth Cup win
over Brighton on Wednesday night but could still be involved. Winger Gary
O'Neil and striker Frederic Piquionne will hope to figure against their
former club.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons write off Rhodes chances
Last Updated: January 13, 2012 11:04am
SSN
West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce has written off his chances of landing
Huddersfield Town hot-shot Jordan Rhodes this month. The Hammers have had a
bid for the 27-goal striker, believed to be around £3million, rejected by
the League One promotion hopefuls and Allardyce is resigned to looking
elsewhere for more firepower. "That's something we have tried to do but it's
not a situation where it looks like Huddersfield want to lose their player,"
he said. "When a club of Huddersfield's status decide they don't want to
lose him because of their own position, and it's more important they keep
him for their promotion push, then it becomes very difficult for us to prize
the player away by the club giving us permission to speak to him. "At the
moment I would say yes, we have given up on that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Grant takes charge at Partizan
Defending Serbian champions sack Stanojevic and appoint Grant
Last Updated: January 13, 2012 1:25pm
SSN
Former Chelsea and Portsmouth manager Avram Grant has taken charge of
Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade. The club, which has won 23 national
championships appointed Grant after sacking Aleksandra Stanojevic following
a clash with the club management over personnel issues. The Israeli was last
in charge at West Ham before being fired following their relegation from the
Premier League last May. Grant led Chelsea to their only UEFA Champions
League final, against Manchester United in 2008. A game which they
eventually went on to lose in a dramatic penalty shoot-out on a rain-soaked
night in Moscow. He also led Portsmouth to the FA Cup final in 2010, in
which they were beaten by a Didier Drogba goal for Chelsea at Wembley. Grant
will take charge of the defending champions who are currently sitting a
comfortable 10 points clear in the league after 15 games and has been
offered substan ial bonuses if the club qualifies for next season's
Champions League.
A club statement said: "The board of directors is confident that Avram Grant
is at the top of his profession and can achieve the results that are
expected from our army of fans."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham confirm John deal
Hammers announce American signing
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
January 13, 2012 2:43pm
SSN
West Ham United have confirmed the signing of American defender George John.
The FC Dallas defender has signed a two-month loan deal with a view to it
then becoming permanent. The 24-year-old, who saw a move to Blackburn
collapse last August, has Greek heritage and is ready to make his debut for
The Hammers.
"I am happy to be here, excited by the opportunity and enthusiastic about
playing under the manager and getting better," John told West Ham's official
website.
"I feel good and hopefully I can get into some training and get up to the
pace. "I know West Ham is traditionally a very strong club, one of the
strongest clubs in England. I am looking forward to playing with the team
and hopefully helping them in their promotion aims. They are in a good
position in the Championship."
Manager Sam Allardyce added: "He's a good defender, of the right stature,
and the right ability and the right ambition who sees his future in this
country." Allardyce also confirmed he is considering signing Japanese
trialist Ryoichi Maeda. The 30-year-old Jubilo Iwata striker has been
training with The Hammers this week. "He's a player with a proven track
record, I have to decide if he can play a part in the team quickly," said
Allardyce.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Karren Brady's football diary
Published: Today
The Sun
SATURDAY, JAN 7
WOKE up this morning having learned two new things about my husband Paul.
The previous night I had attended the match between Paul's team Burton
Albion and Accrington Stanley — whose supporters unfurled a huge banner
which read: 'We're the club that refuses to die'. Not marketing genius, but
there you go. I sat behind the dugout and could hear every cough and
splutter. Firstly, I discovered Paul likes to swear a lot during games and,
secondly, he can whistle. Even after our many years of marriage, I never
realised he could do either so skilfully. Afterwards, a lady came up to me
in the directors' box and said "Your son is sooooo handsome." I was stunned,
as he's still only a schoolboy. I'd mis-heard. She actually said "Your Sam
is so handsome." As my assistant manager who was also at the game with me
pointed out, Sam Allardyce has been called many things by many people over
the years...
SUNDAY, JAN 8
SAM and the team lost at Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup. With a stack of
injuries and the main objective being promotion I could see why Sam made
lots of changes but, still, it was a shame. As for James Tomkins supposedly
putting in a transfer request which one paper reported — not on Sam's watch
he hasn't. James is an extremely polite, likeable young man and still has 2½
years left on his contract.
MONDAY, JAN 9
THIERRY HENRY and Paul Scholes have both come back to star for their clubs
in the FA Cup. Henry's winner against Leeds was a story you would only
expect in a Hollywood movie. Amazing. As for Scholes, he has been sorely
missed in the Manchester United engine room. Now, in the light of their
comebacks and our injuries, I'm thinking of making Alvin Martin and Billy
Bonds offers they can't refuse. Maybe even Sir Trevor B.
TUESDAY, JAN 10
MET an old colleague at a party this evening hosted by the Sunderland
vice-chairman David Miliband. When I was 18 years old and working in my
first job, this former colleague was the Australian chairman of the company.
He came up to me and in his brusque Antipodean way said: "Do you have any
Australian in you?" I replied "no." His eyes lit up and he responded: "Would
you like some?" Back then, I was very naive and didn't have a clue what he
meant, until many hours afterwards. Suffice to say, he went beetroot when I
reminded him of his chat-up line.
WEDNESDAY, JAN 11
ANOTHER comeback in London but this time in the dugout as Mark 'Sparky'
Hughes takes over at QPR. His record meant it was only a matter of time
before another top job came along. Hughes will also enjoy the luxury of
having a few pounds to spend at the ambitious West London club. They've had
a bad run of results lately but it still came as something of a surprise to
see Neil Warnock go, especially after delivering promotion last summer and
taking Rangers back to the Premier League after a gap of 15 years. Even
Hughes expressed sympathy with Warnock who can consider himself very
unfortunate.
THURSDAY, JAN 12
THE spirit of sacked Sky TV duo Andy Gray and Richards Keys appears to be
alive and kicking in East Anglia. After Ipswich lost at Birmingham, Paul
Jewell claimed they had not been given a stonewall penalty. "Everyone to a
man thought it was a penalty, but not a woman." Assistant referee Amy
Fearn's crime was not to award a spot-kick. But then neither did referee
Robert Lewis. And what has the fact that she is a woman got to do with it?
Amy defused the situation by simply saying Jewell's comments were water off
a duck's back. I look forward to her promotion to the Premier League.
FRIDAY, JAN 13
WOKE up on Friday the 13th not with a scare, but a sense of surprise. What
has Avram Grant got that makes club chairmen keep giving him jobs? Our
former manager, who took us down last season and Portsmouth the year before,
has just landed the job at Partizan Belgrade — one of the biggest clubs in
eastern Europe.
All I can say is that Avram must have one hell of an agent.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce turns to Sordell to lend weight to West Ham title bid
Watford striker could make the short move across London to bolster the
Hammers' attack
News.ladbrokes.com
Fancied for promotion before a ball was kicked this season, West Ham have
managed to achieve a level of consistency that has seen them rise to a
position as joint-league leaders. Boss Sam Allardyce is now intent on adding
more firepower to his team to ensure they make it past the finish line and
achieve their goal of promotion.
A move for Huddersfield striker Jordan Rhodes has been mooted repeatedly,
but his five-goal haul in last Friday's televised league game appears to
have pushed his price tag beyond the Londoners' reach, with scouts from
eight Premier League clubs also reportedly tracking his progress. Instead,
'Big Sam' now looks set to turn his attentions to Watford's highly-rated
England under-21 international forward Marvin Sordell. The pacy striker has
impressed in a struggling Hornets side, and would appear to be the perfect
contrast to play alongside a bigger man in the form of Carlton Cole or
Frederic Piquionne.
If reports are to be believed, the Hammers are lining up a £2m bid for the
20-year-old, who has hit ten goals already this term, though Watford boss
Sean Dyche is reluctant to let him go. Another option could be QPR technical
forward Jamie Mackie, of whom Allardyce is also a fan. Mark Hughes hasn't
had much time to run the rule over his newly-inherited Rs squad as of yet,
but could be tempted to allow the sale of Mackie in order to pave the way
for some of his own signings to come in, after admitting his squad is far
too big as it stands. One player that looks very likely to complete a move
to Upton Park though, is Ryoichi Maeda. The Japan international is flying to
London in order to train with the Hammers, and Allardyce will tie up a deal
for the striker should he sufficiently impress.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Piquionne joins Wolves in a bid to help them avoid the drop
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 1:06 AM on 14th January 2012
The Daily Mail
Wolves signed striker Frederic Piquionne, 33, on a free transfer from West
Ham. The one-time France international was available of a cut-price fee.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tottenham Hotspur private investigator arrested in Olympic Stadium row swoop
By Paul Kelso, Chief Sports Reporter10:26PM GMT 13 Jan 2012
Daily Telegraph
A private investigator retained by Tottenham Hotspur who obtained West Ham
vice-chairman Karren Brady's telephone records at the height of the Olympic
Stadium bidding process has been arrested on suspicion of fraud offences.
Howard Hill, a former partner at accountancy firm PKF, was arrested on
Wednesday in Cheshire and taken into custody. Police searched a residential
address and removed documents. PKF and Hill, a senior corporate
investigator, were engaged by Tottenham to carry out unspecified
investigations at the culmination of the bidding process for the stadium,
which was won by West Ham. Hill resigned from the company in December.
West Ham called in the police after an exposé appeared in the Sunday Times
revealing that a director of the Olympic Park Legacy Company had undertaken
paid consultancy work for the club. The story referred to information
gleaned from private telephone records, and in a civil action brought by
West Ham last November PKF admitted that it did have copies of Brady's
records. The court heard that PKF admitted Hill and two colleagues had
passed the telephone records to the Sunday Times.
In a statement the Metropolitan Police said: "On 11 January 2012 a man, 57,
was arrested at an address in Cheshire on suspicion of fraud offences and
was taken into custody at a Cheshire police station. He was later bailed to
return in Feb. 2012 pending further inquiries. As part of their inquiries
detectives conducted a search of the residential property."
On Friday night PKF said in a statement: "Howard Hill resigned from the firm
on Dec 15 and we have not had any communication with him since." Two other
men were arrested in connection with the case last November, a 29 year-old
from Sussex and a 39 year-old from Surrey. Both were bailed until
mid-February. In court PKF and Hill denied being "engaged in any unlawful
activity" to obtain the phone records or employing any third parties to do
so. Lawyers for Tottenham told the court that the club had not received a
copy of Brady's phone records, and in a statement denied any involvement in
illegal activity. "Tottenham Hotspur did not instruct PKF to engage in any
unlawful activity and PKF have confirmed that they did not," it said in a
statement.
Baroness Ford, the chairman of the OPLC, has also alleged that her board
were put under surveillance by Tottenham, a claim denied by the club, which
described it as "appalling".
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Posts
