03/06/2007 15:47
Danny Gabbidon and James Collins renewed their defensive partnership in
impressive fashion on Saturday as Wales earned a creditable point against
the Czech Republic in the latest round of Euro 2008 qualifying matches. The
Hammers duo played together in a competitive match for the first time since
January, and were back to their best as the highly-rated Czechs failed to
break the deadlock in a closely-fought 0-0 stalemate at the Millennium
Stadium. Gabbidon showed that he has fully recovered from the troublesome
groin injuries that ruled him out for most of the last campaign, while
Collins continued his superb end-of-season form with a number of timely
blocks and interceptions in front of goal. Elsewhere, two more heroes from
our successful relegation battle were also on international duty this
weekend. Lucas Neill captained Australia in a 2-1 friendly defeat against
Uruguay in Sydney, while Carlos Tevez was on target for Argentina as they
drew 1-1 with Switzerland in a warm-up match before the Copa America finals
this summer. Meanwhile, newly-appointed Northern Ireland coach Nigel
Worthington has opened the door for Hammers defender George McCartney to
make a return to international football in the near future. McCartney has
not played for his country since June 2005 following a fall-out with
previous coach Lawrie Sanchez, but could now be in line to add to his tally
of 19 full caps after Worthington offered a fresh start. "I don't know the
full scenario although I think George had his differences with Lawrie," said
the former Norwich City boss. "I know George was coming into the squad when
I was at the tail end of my international career, he's a very, very good
player and I don't think Northern Ireland is in a position to close the door
to too many Premiership players. "I will let George have a summer breather
but I will be speaking to him in the coming weeks. We'll have a chat to see
what his thoughts are and I think the biggest thing is the players want to
turn up and play for their country. "They will fly all over the world to
play for the team. Any player that wants to do that and show passion and
pride will be welcome in the squad. "I'll have a chat with George and I hope
he will want to play for his country again."
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Galey's review of the season: part one - WHUFC
02/06/2007 12:18
In a three-part special feature, former Upton Park favourite and regular
whufc.com columnist Tony Gale provides his own personal look back at the
unforgettable 2006-07 campaign, with part one reflecting on the eventful
first few months of the season…
Who'd have guessed what kind of a season we'd have in store after we won our
first game convincingly against Charlton at Upton Park back in August?
Everything looked rosy at that point in time and it seemed to be that the
only way was up. The Charlton game was followed by a decent point at
newly-promoted Watford and a good performance, despite the defeat, against
Liverpool at Anfield. Then, bang! The announcement that we were signing
Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano, plus the speculation of a takeover
hanging over the Club. I thought it was great news - two world class
players adding to an already decent squad. Unfortunately, in my personal
opinion, the Argentine boys were seen by a few of the players as a threat,
rather than two great signings. The manager, Alan Pardew, seemed to be a
little bit put off that they weren't actually his signings but were
additions that the previous board had made. If I was a manager I would have
probably felt the same, then on reflection felt that I was a lucky man to
have two great players on my plate. The two internationals were going to
have to take time to settle in to Premiership football and the English way
of life. This wasn't helped by a run of poor results, which everyone found
hard to explain. Looking at it from the outside, I thought that the existing
players who had done so well the previous season had started to take things
for granted and the second season in the top flight was becoming a real
slog. Dean Ashton's early season injury after being called up to the England
squad was a serious blow. I believe that Deano - had he been fit - would not
only have scored 20 goals in the Premiership but would have also been an
England regular. The youngsters in the squad were particularly affected and
their confidence was dipping alarmingly. Although we got the odd result here
and there, already early in the season the danger signs were showing…
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Blades confident of reinstatement - BBC
Sheffield United plc chairman Kevin McCabe is confident the club will be
reinstated to the Premiership. An arbitration panel on 18 June will hear the
Blades' claim against the Premier League's failure to dock West Ham points
over the Carlos Tevez saga. "I firmly believe we will win and the previous
decision will be overturned," McCabe told BBC Five Live Sport. "Officials
have said that if the arbitration overturns the previous decision then we
should be reinstated." The Blades are challenging a decision to fine West
Ham rather than dock them points and cancel striker Tevez's registration.
The Premier League had initially told Sheffield United, who were relegated
on the last day of the season, that they were wasting their time and money.
But McCabe claims officials have since told the club they will regain their
top-flight status if their claim is successful. Asked about what that would
mean to West Ham, who stayed up in 15th place while Sheffield United were
relegated on goal difference after finishing on the same number of points as
17th-placed Wigan, he said: "That's conjecture. That's not my issue, that is
one that has to rest firmly with the Premier League. "Our dispute is with
the Premier League."
The Blades chief said having an extra team in the Premiership was a
possibility. He added: "It seems a simple way of sorting things out but
again that is really for the board of the Premier League to decide and opine
upon." The issue has dragged on since March when the Hammers were charged by
the Premier League with breaching rules in relation to the signings of
Argentine duo Tevez and Javier Mascherano. Tevez and Mascherano, who has
since left for Liverpool, joined the club in August but their registration
with third party Media Sports Investment broke regulations. West Ham were
found guilty of acting improperly and withholding vital documentation over
the duo's ownership but they escaped a points deduction and Tevez was
allowed to continue playing. He was one of the major factors in the club's
late escape from the drop but the Blades have vowed to fight the Premier
League's decision. McCabe stated: "I think the Premier League accept they
wish the arbitration was not happening. "But in the knowledge it is
happening and it cannot be prevented, then if the decision is overturned we
should be reselected to the Premier League. "Since we really looked into the
whys and the wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong
decision was made. "There were circumstances behind the wrong decision but
we've looked at it and consulted with our lawyers and we're confident that
the arbitration will overturn it. "An injustice has been done - a club that
played within the rules has been relegated and a club that breached the
rules has been rewarded."
Actor and Sheffield United fan Sean Bean will lead a delegation to
Parliament on 13 June - five days before the arbitration looks at the
Blades' claim. McCabe has not ruled out taking the matter further if the
decision is not in their favour. He said: "The arbitration is critical to
our reinstatement to the Premier League. If there are other legal recourses
they may be looked into but we're all working hard towards 18 and 19 of
June."
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Hot gossip - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 4th June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
West Ham United are lining up a move for Everton striker Andrew Johnson,
according to Monday's papers. The Mail carries a (tall?) story suggesting
that United are set to make a £13m bid for the forward, who is thought to be
looking to move back to London after failing to settle in the North West.
Elswhere Matthew Etherington - who has been told he can leave the club - is
said to be a target of newly-promoted Derby County, who are rumoured to be
willing to part with around £2m for the winger's services. Nigel Reo-Coker
continues to be linked with an £8m switch to Aston Villa; Glasgow Rangers
were also linked with the England under-21 captain yesterday - whilst
Manchester United wide-man Kieron Richardson was linked with a return to
East London over the weekend. Another possible departure could be Nigel
Quashie - signed just five months ago in a £2m switch from West Brom - who
is another Hammer said to be interesting Rangers boss Walter Smith. Finally
Eggert Magnusson is due to meet the representatives of Carlos Tevez this
week with view to extending the Argentinian's stay at West Ham. Despite
Magnusson's best efforts, the feeling inside the club remains that Tevez
will be playing elsewhere next season.
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I'd love to partner Tevez - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Dean Ashton has admitted that he would love to play alongside Carlos Tevez
for the Hammers next season. The 23-year-old striker missed the entire
2006/07 season through injury but is looking to once again make an impact
this coming term. And, he says, nothing would give him greater pleasure than
partnering the Argentinian striker. "I hope he can stay," Ashton told the
Mail. "He was fantastic, hungry, showed a great desire - and that is what
pulled us out in the end. "It would be a shame if he goes after just half a
season of playing like that." Meanwhile there was good news concerning
Ashton's long term injury. The former Norwich and Crewe striker revealed
that he was nearing full fitness once again with the help of former United
head physio John Green, who now works independently. And he admits that he
can't wait to get back to first team football after a miserable year. "I
just want to get back for the love of playing football," he said. "I want to
be part of a West Ham team that could be really special. "It's brilliant
for me that I will be playing Premiership football again next season. I've
had a season-long holiday, now I just want to get back to work, doing the
things I have missed, like shooting. You don't realise how much a striker
enjoys shooting, until he can't. "I want to come back quicker, stronger,
fitter. People have labelled me a bit slow, a bit big; I want to come back
and show that I'm strong, quick and fit. I want to be a better athlete."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker announcement tomorrow ( today ) - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Scott Parker will complete his transfer from Newcastle tomorrow after
agreeing personal terms with the Hammers. The 26-year-old midfielder is set
to undergo a medical tomorrow morning after which - assuming there are no
problems - his signing is set to be announced. Parker will cost the Hammers
in the region of £7m and becomes Alan Curbishley's first signing of what
promises to be a busy summer. One player that the Hammers appear to have
missed out on however is Joey Barton, who is set to sign for Newcastle as a
direct replacement for Parker later this week. Meanwhile Charlton striker
Darren Bent looks to have opted for Tottenham over the Hammers meaning that
Curbishley may now turn his attention to former Hammer Jermain Defoe, who
has struggled to hold down a first team spot at White Hart Lane. Defoe
incurred the wrath of United supporters when he requested a transfer less
than 24 hours after West Ham's relegation was confirmed back in May 2003.
However it appears that many fans have forgiven Defoe for his decision -
since blamed by the player himself on his agent - and would be ready to
welcome him back to the Boleyn Ground.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tevez on target - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 3rd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Carlos Tevez continued his goalscoring ways by hitting the opening goal in
tonight's Switzerland v Argentina friendly. The United striker (technically,
at least) nodded home* Argentina's only goal in a 1-1 draw in Basle four
minutes into the second half. Tevez's header came via a cross from Lionel
Messi of Barcelona - just one of a number of clubs reportedly interested in
signing the 23-year-old striker next season. Argentina's lead was cancelled
out by Marco Streller for the Swiss, who also featured long-term Hammers
target Tranquillo Barnetta. Elsewhere James Collins and Danny Gabbidon were
in action for Wales against the Czech Republic in Cardiff this evening. The
European Championship Group D clash finished goalless - a result which,
barring a miracle, saw the end of Wales' chances of qualification for next
year's finals. American full-back Jon Spector is currently making his sixth
international appearance against China.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Whoopi calls it a day - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Former Hammer Rufus Brevett has announced his retirement from professional
football. The 37-year-old left-back - who spent two-and-a-half years with
the Hammers between 2003 and 2005 - hung up his boots this week after being
released by Conference outfit Oxford United. Jim Smith - recently appointed
as manager of the Us - told the Oxford Mail "Rufus has told me he is packing
in the game." Derby-born Brevett began his professional career with
Doncaster in 1988. Before becoming a Hammer he also played for QPR and
Fulham. Glenn Roeder signed the stocky full-back for £375,000 in the January
2003 transfer window, and it was with his help that United went so close to
avoiding relegation - although a tally of 42 points (a point more than the
Hammers gained last season) proved to be insufficent. Brevett - known
affectionately by Hammers fans as 'Whoopi', after the similarly-coiffured
Whoopi Goldberg - remained with the club in the Championship for the next
two seasons, although much of that time was spent on the sidelines. An
ankle injury kept him out of action for nearly a year before he was released
in the summer of 2005 after making just 29 first-team appearances.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
They wouldn't let it lie ... - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 2nd June 2007
By: Matthew O'Greel
Sheffield United have vowed to continue their fight for 'justice' - despite
being stripped of their Premier League membership yesterday. The Blades saw
their Premiership share - one of which is given to every member club at the
beginning of each season - passed on to Derby County, who have replaced them
in the 07/08 line-up. Despite earlier threats suggesting that they would try
to hijack the meeting, it was attended by the 20 member clubs only. Despite
officially being a Football League club now, the Blades are clinging on to
the vain hope that an arbitration hearing on June 18th will reinstate them
in the Premier League. Lord Justice Sir Philip Otton will chair the panel
alongside David Pannick QC (chosen by Sheffield United), and leading
barrister Nicholas Randall (nominated by the Premier League). Although the
panel cannot overturn the decision to fine the Hammers £5.5m they could yet
rule that the judgement was flawed and award compensation to the Blades.
Their Chairman - Kevin McCabe - has all but run out of options, yet insists
that he will take the matter to the House of Lords AND the European
Parliament should the hearing return a favourable verdict. However the
Premier League have all but said that the enquiry is a waste of time, and
little more than a case of going through the motions. West Ham's Premier
League status will not be affected.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker closes on Hammers move - Sky
By Alex Livie - Created on 3 Jun 2007
Scott Parker has agreed personal terms with West Ham, according to Sky
Sports News. The midfielder was given permission to speak to The Hammers
after Newcastle accepted a bid believed to be in the region of £8.5million.
Hammers chief Alan Curbishley is a huge fan of Parker, having shaped his
career at Charlton, and it would appear as if the midfielder is keen to link
up with his former manager at Upton Park as he is reported to have agreed
personal terms. Sky Sports News have been informed all that stands between
Parker and a move to West Ham is a medical, which is expected to take place
on Monday. Newcastle are likely to act quickly to offset the loss of Parker,
as Manchester City winger Joey Barton is on the cusp of a transfer to St
James' Park.
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Blades hopeful for appeal - Sky
By Robin Hackett - Created on 3 Jun 2007
Sheffield United's hopes of staying in the top flight have been given a
boost after they were informed that they may not be relegated if they win
their arbitration hearing. The Blades remain adamant that West Ham should
have been docked points over the controversial signings of Carlos Tevez and
Javier Mascherano, and have managed to persuade the Pre ier League to set up
an arbitration panel. And Sheffield United plc chairman Kevin McCabe claims
he has been told that, if the panel decide in their favour, they will be
re-established as a Premiership side. "I firmly believe Sheffield United
will win and the previous decision will be overturned for reasons of an
irrational decision that was made by the first panel," he told BBC Radio
Five Live. "What the (Premier League) officials have said to myself and
other colleagues is that, if the arbitration overturns the previous
decision, Sheffield United should be reinstated to the Premier League."
And McCabe is ready to take things further should the club win the
arbitration but be denied the chance to return to the Premiership. "I can
say to the fans that I believe we will win the arbitration and then it rests
with the Premier League to decide thereafter. "People from the Premier
League have indicated we will be reinstated if we win. "Our view is that the
arbitration is critical for our reinstatement to the Premier League. If
there are other recourses, they may be looked into, but we are all working
hard towards the 18th and 19th June."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Premier League to create 'Tevez's Law' - Soccernet
Premier League clubs have reacted to the Carlos Tevez row by seeking to
clear up any confusion over third party influence in the purchase of players
at their annual general meeting. West Ham escaped with a £5.5million fine
instead of being docked points for signing third-party agreements in
contravention of league rules when an independent commission ruled on the
nature of the deals that took Tevez and Javier Mascherano - now with
Liverpool - to Upton Park. The third-party agreements were with Iranian-born
businessman Kia Joorabchian and the Hammers were ordered to end the
agreement by the commission. But the Hammers did not have to cancel Tevez's
registration and went on to escape relegation with the Argentinian playing a
key role.
The commission ruling provoked fury from the Hammers' relegation rivals
including Sheffield United, who were relegated on the final day of the
Premiership season. The Premier League have since agreed to set up an
arbitration tribunal to rule on the Blades' complaints over the registration
of Tevez. A Premier League statement on today's AGM said: 'It was decided,
for the sake of clarity, to adopt a rule making the disclosure of all
documents relating to the transfer of a player's registration and any other
relevant third party contracts or arrangements explicit.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCabe confident on Tevez - Telegraph
By Jeremy Cross
Last Updated: 2:26am BST 04/06/2007
Kevin McCabe, the Sheffield United plc chairman, insists he is confident the
club will be successful in their campaign to be reinstated to the
Premiership. An arbitration panel will sit on June 18 in London to hear
United's claim against the Premier League's failure to dock West Ham points
over the Carlos Tevez saga. The Yorkshire club are challenging a decision to
fine West Ham rather than deduct them points and cancel the registration of
Tevez, the Argentine forward. The Premier League had initially told United,
who were relegated on the last day of the season, that they were wasting
their time and money. However, McCabe claims officials from the same
organisation have told him that his club will regain their top-flight status
should their claim be successful.
McCabe, who has enlisted the help of Hollywood actor and lifelong supporter
Sean Bean, said: "I firmly believe we will win and the previous decision
will be overturned. Officials have said that if the arbitration overturns
the previous decision then we should be reinstated. I think the Premier
League accept they wish the arbitration was not happening, but in the
knowledge it is happening and it cannot be prevented, then if the decision
is overturned we should be reselected. "Since we really looked into the whys
and the wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong
decision was made. "There were circumstances behind the wrong decision but
we've looked at it and consulted with our lawyers and we're confident that
the arbitration will overturn it. "An injustice has been done - a club that
played within the rules has been relegated and a club that breached the
rules has been rewarded. "The arbitration is critical to our reinstatement
to the Premier League. If there are other legal recourses they may be looked
into but we're all working hard towards 18 and 19 of June."
Nicolas Anelka claims he has no plans to leave Bolton, but admits he "could
not say no" to an offer from Manchester United. He said: "In England the
same four clubs are always on top [United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool].
So I want to play for those four big clubs, but I also want to work with
Bolton to become like one of those four big clubs and create a surprise."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Parker deal to pave way for Joey - TeamTalk
England midfielder Scott Parker is poised to join West Ham on Monday, with
Newcastle likely to replace him in their midfield with Joey Barton. It is
understood that 26-year-old Magpies captain Parker has agreed terms with the
Hammers, while the clubs have agreed a fee for the player. And that is
expected to pave the way for Manchester City midfielder Barton to head north
and join the St James' Park club. Current Hammers captain Nigel Reo-Coker
handed in a transfer request last week after his advisor claimed he had not
been given the right assurances over his future by the Premiership club. The
Hammers held discussions with midfielder Parker on Thursday, after fighting
off late interest from London rivals Tottenham. The £7million-rated former
Charlton and Chelsea player met West Ham officials and is now expected to
become Alan Curbishley's first signing of the summer. And Newcastle are
likely to immediately plug the gap in their midfield by landing
controversial 24-year-old Barton. The Magpies can get the player if they
meet the £5.5million figure stated in the England international's contract.
Barton missed the closing weeks of the season after being suspended by City
following a training ground incident involving team-mate Ousmane Dabo.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rams and Latics open door for Matt - TeamTalk
Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2million of his £10million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan. The Rams
chief is reeling from the news that star winger Giles Barnes has suffered a
broken foot - and also needs to rebuild his Pride Park squad after releasing
eight players this week. Etherington is Davies' number one target and would
jump at the chance of a move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out
of favour since Alan Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was
a firm fixture in former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in
Curbishley's plans following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from
Fulham. Etherington has also attracted the interest of Latics boss Chris
Hutchings, though, as he wants more competition for Kevin Kilbane on the
left wing and has been given a £20million warchest by Dave Whelan.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Rangers making plans for Nigel - TeamTalk
Rangers are reportedly set to make a move for West Ham's Scotland
international midfielder Nigel Quashie. Quashie could find himself out of
favour at Upton Park next season as Alan Curbishley embarks on a summer
spending spree. Ibrox boss Walter Smith is a big fan of the combative
midfielder and could make a swoop after Wigan slapped a £2.5million price
tag on Wigan's Lee McCulloch, according to the Sunday Mail. It is claimed
the Hammers would let Quashie, who almost joined the 'Gers when Alex McLeish
was manager, leave for a fee of around £1.5million. The midfielder's
proposed loan move to Ibrox in January 2006 fell through due to speculation
over the future of McLeish, who left the club just four months later. At the
time, Quashie said: "There was constant talk of Alex leaving. If I went
there and he left a few weeks later, that would have put me in a difficult
position. "David Murray and Alex were brilliant with me but it was a complex
situation." Quashie was called up for Scotland by former boss Berti Vogts
despite winning England Under-21 honours and has played 14 times, with eight
of his caps coming during Smith's spell in charge of the national team. He
played for QPR, Nottingham Forest, Portsmouth, Southampton and West Brom
before his January move to West Ham.
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Blades confident of Prem return - TeamTalk
Kevin McCabe insists he has been informed by a high-level Premier League
official that Sheffield United could be restored to the top flight. Chairman
McCabe claims the relegated Blades could be reinstated if they win their
arbitration hearing in two weeks' time. He is refusing to give up the fight
over his conviction that West Ham should have been docked points over the
Carlos Tevez affair and expects an independent panel to find in his club's
favour. McCabe told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek: "I firmly believe
Sheffield United will win and the previous decision will be overturned for
reasons of an irrational decision that was made by the first panel. "What
the [Premier League] officials have said to myself and other colleagues is
that if the arbitration overturns the previous decision, that Sheffield
United should be reinstated to the Premier League." The Blades were
relegated from the top flight after a final day defeat at home to Wigan.
West Ham - who escaped with a £5.5million fine for their conduct in the
transfer and registration of Tevez and Javier Mascherano - survived. Despite
insisting they would not accept their fate, the Blades subsequently parted
company with long-time manager Neil Warnock and appointed former West Brom
boss Bryan Robson in his place. McCabe insists his confidence has never
wavered for a moment, adding: "Since we really looked into the whys and
wherefores of the Tevez affair it became apparent that a wrong decision had
been made. "We have looked at it and obviously consulted with our lawyers
and QCs and we are really confident that arbitration will overturn it. I am
just happier that we are now only two weeks away from D-Day." But McCabe
also hinted the Blades would not let the matter rest if they were to win
their arbitration hearing only to find the Premier League blocked their way
back into the top flight. "I can say to the fans that I believe we will win
the arbitration and then it rests with the FA Premier League to decide
thereafter. People from the Premier League have indicated we will be
reinstated if we win.
"Our view is that the arbitration is critical for our reinstatement to the
Premier League. If there are other legal recourses they may be looked into,
but we are all working hard towards the 18th and 19th of June."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set to offer £13m for Johnson and £90,000 a week - This Is London
03.06.07
West Ham will enter the summer spending frenzy with a £13million offer for
Andrew Johnson and the promise of £90,000-a-week wages. The deal, which
would more than double Johnson's earnings at Everton, would be worth £4.7m a
year. The England striker is aware of the interest and although West Ham
expect Everton to rebuff their opening bid, the London club are prepared to
go as high as £18m, which could prove too good to turn down. West Ham are
already set to complete a £7m deal for Newcastle midfielder Scott Parker,
who has agreed a £72,000-a-week contract. Now Hammers chief Alan Curbishley,
backed b y Icelandic billionaire Thor Bjorgolfsson, wants Johnson as the
club target Champions League football within the next three seasons.
Johnson, who scored 11 Premiership goals for Everton last season, would
become the highest paid player in Hammers history if their bid is
successful. Goodison Park manager David Moyes, who is planning for a UEFA
Cup campaign next season, is forced to work with a limited budget and is
struggling to raise the £6m required to buy Phil Jagielka from relegated
Sheffield United. Curbishley, resigned to losing Carlos Tevez, will make
Lucas Neill captain next season with skipper Nigel Reo-Coker set for Aston
Villa after his outburst last week. There is also no future at the club for
Paul Konchesky, Matt Etherington and Hayden Mullins. The Parker transfer,
which is subject to a medical, clears the way for Newcastle to tie up a
£5.5m move for Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton. In a tribute to St
James' Park boss Sam Allardyce, Barton said last night: "He's a good
manager, he showed that at Bolton. At Newcastle the sky's the limit. If the
club decide to do business it's up to me to speak to them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ashton is next in line for the physio who fixed Owen - This Is London
03.06.07
Jumping, sprinting, stretching, pushing, recovering. A new, improved Dean
Ashton will soon appear at a football ground near you. Remember Ashton? The
FA Cup Final of 2006, 13 long months ago, was his last game. It's a whole
season since he was picked in the England team to play against Greece in
Steve McClaren's first international. New England coach, new centre forward
to lead the line. Then, the day before his debut, Ashton broke his left
ankle on the training ground. Last Friday, as England were preparing to face
Brazil, Ashton was completing his sixth day of intense training in a week.
There will be no summer holiday and while Saturdays are currently his day
off, he's not keen on the rest. "I've had a season-long holiday," he said.
"Now I just want to get back to work, doing the things I have missed, like
shooting. You don't realise how much a striker enjoys shooting, until he
can't."
Hired to restore him to the front line is freelance physio John Green, the
man responsible for the new-look Michael Owen and Kieron Dyer. Now Ashton is
his patient and they will work one-onone throughout the summer to give West
Ham back their centreforward. So Ashton's pre-season is under way now, in
early June, and he has great faith in his personal physio. "You only have to
look at how fantastic Michael looks, considering the injuries he has had. I
have massive confidence in John, too, and that he will get me back a better
player than before. "I want to come back quicker, stronger, fitter. People
have labelled me a bit slow, a bit big; I want to come back and show that
I'm strong, quick, fit and add that to my technical game and my footballing
brain. I want to be a better athlete."
Green, who was West Ham's physio for 15 years, added: "It's not just a case
of rehabilitating the ankle. Dean wants me to work with him holistically, he
wants me to make him quicker and stronger while maintaining his mobility. We
are also working on nutrition, as well as upper body strength. Things are
looking good." Some positive news, then, for West Ham after a season packed
with misfortunes. "I've been like the Invisible Man around this club,
ghosting in and then ghosting out again. I've read some books, watched some
games. I stopped coming to the matches because it was so very difficult,
feeling helpless," recalled Ashton. "There has been a hell of a lot going on
around here. Since I last played everything has changed — the board, the
manager, the players. The lads joke that there is so much going on, this
club is a bit like EastEnders."
Ashton, with a broad northern accent that echoes around the empty dining
room at Chadwell Heath training ground, is grateful for Green's company in
the lonely struggle to return to fitness.
"It's hard to cope when you are injured long-term," said Green. "You are
often left to yourself because the nature of a medical team within a
football club is that they are under pressure.
"I've been through relegation and promotion. I know it is easy to be
distracted. The board want a medical update, the manager wants to know if
his midfielder will be fit in time, a training injury may require instant
treatment. I've been affected by that and regretted the impact it has had on
a player's health and care. You can't help it, because the short-term
injuries are the priority. Can you get the player fit for Saturday? The
long-term injured suffer as a result of that. It happens at all clubs.
"That's where a nomadic physio works. He can come in and fight fires — and
then disappear. It worked for Newcastle, with Kieron and Michael, where I
was able to give them that one - on- one attention, to help them recover
fitness and hopefully to prevent future injuries. It's great to see them
both back, now it's time to concentrate on Dean."
Green describes his new patient as absolutely first class, very driven and
interested in what we are doing.' Ashton, who required a second operation to
clear scar tissue around the injured ankle, now has his goal in sight. "I
don't remember much about the tackle that injured me, I wouldn't place any
blame on Shaun Wright-Phillips. I was devastated, it was my dream to play
for my country and I was feeling the best I had ever felt. To go from that
to not being able to walk . . . "There is no secret to trying to cope with a
long-term injury. It's horrible, simple as that. Some days you feel fine,
other days it's the worst thing in the world. You have to keep away from the
thought of not playing."
Ashton could not watch the relegation scramble unfolding but hopes that he
can one day play alongside Carlos Tevez. "I hope he can stay. He was
fantastic, hungry, showed a great desire, that is what pulled us out in the
end. It would be a shame if he goes after just half a season of playing like
that. "Personally, I just want to get back for the love of playing football,
the joy of going out and kicking a ball. I'll be so grateful to get back to
that. I want to be part of a West Ham team that could be really special.
"It's brilliant for me that I will be playing Premiership football again
next season. I wouldn't have been looking to leave even if we had gone down;
clubs don't sign injured players, do they? "I also hope to try to get back
into Steve McClaren's thinking. Hopefully, he still sees me as part of his
plans."
Owen back, Ashton on his way as Dean and Green work in harmony. With
McClaren short on forwards and goals as he heads for Estonia tomorrow
morning, he will surely be pleased to learn about this latest story of
recovery.
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Sunday Paper Round-Up - KUMB Forums
Sunday Mirror
WEST HAM are embarking on a £45million spending spree to safeguard their
Premiership future. The Hammers aim to follow up the signing of Newcastle's
Scott Parker by targeting Everton duo Andy Johnson and Mikel Arteta. They
are also locked in a battle with the Magpies over Australian striker Mark
Viduka. Parker's move to Upton Park is yet to be finalised after the
Hammers' valuation fell short of Newcastle asking price of £7m. The deal is
expected to go through at the start of the week because, contrary to reports
there is no interest in Parker from T*tenham. Viduka, who is currently on
holiday in Melbourne, has been given the weekend to decide on a move to West
Ham or Newcastle. The latter are favourites to clinch his signature, despite
offering him less money than the Hammers to make a switch from their
North-East rivals Middlesbrough. West Ham are currently scouting a number of
European targets but have ruled out any plans to make a move for Manchester
City's troubled midfielder Joey Barton. But while the Hammers step up their
recruitment campaign they are having major problems off-loading nearly £40m
worth of players put up for sale by Alan Curbishley at the end of the
season. Offers deemed derisory by the club have been rejected while there
have been no inquiries for captain Nigel Reo-Coker.
NOTW
DARREN BENT is set to turn his back on West Ham's £60,000-a-week offer so he
can sign for deadly rivals Sp*rs. Charlton's England striker is confident he
can form a dream partnership with Dimitar Berbatov at White Hart Lane. Bent
admitted to a pal: "West Ham have offered me incredible money but I'm
convinced Berbatov is staying at Sp*rs and I'd love to play alongside him.
"I believe we could form a great partnership." Charlton want a staggering
£20million for Bent and Sp*rs have offered £10m — £1m more than West Ham.
And that could see Hammers boss Alan Curbishley make a shock raid for Sp*rs
striker Jermain Defoe — who handed in a transfer request at Upton Park 24
hours after their relegation in 2003. A club insider said: "Alan is aware of
the fans' bad blood towards Jermain but if they ask themselves will he
improve the squad — the answer is 'Yes'." "He is a top class striker who did
not play regularly for Sp*rs last season and is desperate for first-team
football. "The European Championships are coming up and Jermain will know he
needs to be banging in the goals to be given a proper chance with England."
Defoe is behind Berbatov and Robbie Keane-recently handed a new five-year
deal-in the White Hart Lane pecking order and will fall further behind with
the impending arrival of Bent.
And Upton Park chairman Eggert Magnusson is ready to splash out on a
top-class striker to partner Dean Ashton next season.
Mail on Sunday
Across the city, Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill looks set to start his
summer spending spree this week by signing West Ham skipper Nigel Reo-Coker
for £7m. Reo-Coker put in a transfer request at Upton Park eight days ago
and, as reported in last week's Mail on Sunday, Villa were always favourites
to land the 22-year-old midfielder. Villa have now opened talks with West
Ham. Villa are also in the chase for Charlton's England defender Luke Young,
although West Ham boss Alan Curbishley was Young's manager at The Valley and
is keen to reunite him with Scott Parker, who is arriving from Newcastle
The Independent
Manchester City midfielder Joey Barton admits he may be open to offers from
other clubs. The controversial 24-year-old missed the closing weeks of the
season after being suspended by City following a training ground incident
involving his team-mate Ousmane Dabo. Barton claims he has too much respect
for City fans to talk about joining specific clubs but has to think about
his future if the club decide to sell. Sam Allardyce, the Newcastle manager,
has been linked with a £5.5 million bid for the 24-year-old, especially if
Scott Parker completes a £7m switch to West Ham United. Barton said: "If the
club decided that they don't want to keep me and they want to accept an
offer then so be it, I've got to look after Joey Barton and my family as
well. "I'll listen to what people have got to say and if they've got a great
desire for me to play for their football club then that's all the attention
that you need." Barton thanked the City fans for their support but
reiterated his belief that the club have underachieved. Barton has been
involved in a number of high-profile incidents and accepts he has an image
problem, but is keen to alter perceptions.
Barton said: "It is disappointing people have a certain opinion, but I meet
countless people who will testify, 'You're not the person you're made out to
be'. At certain times I don't do myself any favours, but to make out I'm
some kind of yob, some kind of psychopath, is so far from the truth it's
unreal."
The Observer
Darren Bent will not be allowed to leave Charlton unless their valuation of
£15m is met. The striker's future is unclear as he has yet to hold
discussions with the club and will do so when he returns from holiday. 'He's
in the Caribbean at the moment and doesn't want to discuss anything until he
gets back,' an executive at the club told Observer Sport. 'There's actually
been no offers for him. But if we don't get the asking price he isn't going.
We turned down £15million in January. And that was from a club outside the
big four - Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. We had to turn
that down then because we still had a chance of avoiding relegation.'
Charlton have also decided against joining Fulham's support of Sheffield
United over the Carlos Tevez affair. The Yorkshire club want the punishment
of West Ham by the Premier League's independent commission to be reviewed.
Portsmouth are still interested in buying Middlesbrough striker Mark Viduka,
but only if they are unable to bring Yakubu, the Australian's team-mate,
back to Fratton Park. 'We are not the only club interested in Viduka,' said
a source at Portsmouth. 'Wages might be the problem, though. He wants
£60,000 a week. But as it's doubtful whether we can afford Yakubu, we would
have to consider Viduka's demands.' Middlesbrough paid Portsmouth £7.5m for
Yakubu two years ago.
Joey Barton has admitted that he is interested in talking to other clubs
about a move away from Manchester City. 'If the club have decided that they
don't want to keep me and they want to accept an offer then so be it,' said
the controversial midfielder. 'I'll listen to what people have to say and if
they've got a great desire for me to play for their football club than
that's all the attention that you need.' The 24-year-old renewed his
criticism of City's failure to progress. 'We have achieved nothing at Man
City and I think of the fan base there and the support structure within the
club - the club should be achieving.' Newcastle and West Ham are reportedly
interested in Barton, who is under police inquiry after a bust-up with
team-mate Ousmane Dabo.
Sunday People
Curbishley is locked in a race with Blackburn and Aston Villa for the new
Welsh captain's signature, but he is edging in front. The Hammers, backed by
their Icelandic millions, are paying big wages and Bellamy can bag a pay
rise at Upton Park - something that Rovers and Villa are reluctant to grant.
All three clubs have been jockeying for position since Bellamy became an
Anfield outcast but none of them are ready to pay the £12 million asking
price. However, if after private talks with the clubs involved, Bellamy
expresses a personal and professional preference, then it is possible he
will push for a move and try to get the fee reduced. Liverpool paid £6.3
million for the player a year ago and would like a profit, but they may
settle for £8 million - which is also within West Ham's budget.
CARLTON STRIKES IT UNLUCKY
CARLTON COLE got the full VIP treatment at the opening of London's newest -
and biggest - gambling den, the Casino At The Empire, on Wednesday. The West
Ham striker and a mate were given a comprehensive tour, and his pal told
their guide that Cole was looking for somewhere he'd be able "to get away
from the spotlight". He was duly informed that the casino would be perfect
as, "We've thrown out attractive blondes before for pestering our
customers". At which point the player's face dropped.
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Parker not so keen to leaveJun 4 2007
By Luke Edwards, The Journal
Scott Parker has attempted to get out of a £7m move to West Ham United as he
is reluctant to leave Newcastle United despite an increasingly difficult
relationship with some of the club's fans.
But United's captain feels he is being pushed towards the exit door as new
manager Sam Allardyce is desperate to sign controversial midfielder Joey
Barton to replace him. The Journal understands Parker has told Allardyce he
wants to stay on Tyneside as club captain and prove his critics wrong next
season. But that plea, while respected by Allardyce, has not persuaded
Newcastle's manager that West Ham's offer should be turned down and the
26-year-old is expected to complete a move back to London this week. "Scott
wants to stay at Newcastle but he doesn't feel as though the club want to
keep him," said a source close to the player. "He had a few problems with
some sections of the club's supporters recently but he was keen to come back
and prove them wrong next season rather than leave.
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Portsmouth, West Ham tracking Reading's Hunt
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt is attracting rival Premiership interest.
The People says the Irish winger, 25, has a year left on his deal but is
preparing for talks on an improved contract, with West Ham and Portsmouth
poised if agreement can't be reached.
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West Ham to offer Liverpool's Bellamy £70,000-a-week deal
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is ready to trump rivals with a mega
contract offer for Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy. The People says
Curbishley is ready to win the wages war for Craig Bellamy - and pay him a
staggering £70,000-a-week to quit Liverpool. Curbishley is locked in a race
with Blackburn and Aston Villa for the new Welsh captain's signature, but he
is edging in front. Liverpool paid £6.3 million for the player a year ago
and would like a profit, but they may settle for £8 million - which is also
within West Ham's budget.
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Birmingham, West Ham move for Colchester keeper Gerken
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
Birmingham City boss Steve Bruce is eyeing Colchester goalkeeper Dean
Gerken. The 21-year-old has had another successful season, in which he also
caught the eye of West Ham manager Alan Curbishley.
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West Ham cut loose Kepa Blanco
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
West Ham United have decided against a permanent deal for Spanish striker
Kepa Blanco. He has returned to Sevilla after his loan with the Hammers
expired last week.
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West Ham to hand Parker £72,000-a-week deal
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
Newcastle United midfielder Scott Parker will join West Ham today on massive
wages. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley, backed by Icelandic billionaire Thor
Bjorgolfsson, has agreed a £7 million fee with Newcastle for Parker, who
will put pen to paper on a long-term £72,000-a-week contract.
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West Ham boss Curbishley pushes through clearout
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
West Ham United boss Alan Curbishley is ready to accelerate plans for a
clearout this summer. Nigel Reo-Coker is expected to join Aston Villa, while
Paul Konchesky, Matt Etherington and Hayden Mullins are also being shown the
door at Upton Park, says the Daily Mail.
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Rams Hope To Acquire Etherington 04/06/07 - Soccer365
Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2 million of his £10 million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan. The Rams
chief is reeling from the news that star winger Giles Barnes has suffered a
broken foot - and also needs to rebuild his Pride Park squad after releasing
eight players this week. Etherington is Davies' number one target and would
jump at the chance of a move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out
of favour since Alan Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was a
firm fixture in former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in
Curbishley's plans following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from
Fulham. Etherington has also attracted the interest of Latics boss Chris
Hutchings, though, as he wants more competition for Kevin Kilbane on the
left wing and has been given a £20million warchest by Dave Whelan.
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'Gers Turn Attention To Quashie 04/06/07 - Socce365
Rangers are reportedly set to make a move for West Ham midfielder Nigel
Quashie. The Scotland international could find himself out-of-favour at
Upton Park next season as Alan Curbishley embarks on a summer spending
spree. Ibrox boss Walter Smith is a big fan of the combative midfielder and
could make a swoop after Wigan slapped a £2.5million price tag on Wigan's
Lee McCulloch, according to the Sunday Mail. It is claimed the Hammers would
let Quashie, who almost joined the 'Gers when Alex McLeish was manager,
leave for a fee of around £1.5million.
The midfielder's proposed loan move to Ibrox in January 2006 fell through
due to speculation over the future of McLeish, who left the club just four
months later. At the time Quashie said: "There was constant talk of Alex
leaving. If I went there and he left a few weeks later that would have put
me in a difficult position. "David Murray and Alex were brilliant with me
but it was a complex situation." Quashie was called up for Scotland by
former boss Berti Vogts despite winning England Under-21 honours and has
played 14 times, with eight of his caps coming during Smith's spell in
charge of the national team. He played for QPR, Nottingham Forest,
Portsmouth, Southampton and West Brom before his January move to West Ham.
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Derby rival Wigan for West Ham's Etherington
tribalfooball.com - June 03, 2007
Derby boss Billy Davies wants to spend £2million of his £10million summer
budget on West Ham's Matt Etherington, who is also wanted by Wigan.
Etherington is Davies' number one target and would jump at the chance of a
move to the East Midlands after falling firmly out of favour since Alan
Curbishley arrived at Upton Park. The 25-year-old was a firm fixture in
former boss Alan Pardew's team but does not figure in Curbishley's plans
following last season's capture of Luis Boa Morte from Fulham.
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Bent seeks Spurs move - NetAddicks
By Trevor
Date: 3/6/2007
Striker Darren Bent is said to favour a move to Tottenham over West Ham
United according to reports in todays media. Spurs are prepared to pay
Charlton £10m for the forward but the Addicks insist that a figure closer to
£15m is more realistic. A close friend of Bent's has spoken out saying he
would love to pair up with Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov in what he
see's as a dream partnership. Darren has reportedly told a close friend:
"West Ham have offered me incredible money but I'm convinced that Berbatov
is staying at Spurs and I'd love to play alongside him, I belive we could
form a great Partnership." Charlton though are not happy at the fee Spurs
are prepared to pay for Bent and are said to be holding out for £15m.
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