Wishing everyone who reads this digest a brilliant Christmas and prosperous
New Year !
C'mon You Irons!!
Peter Robinson
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Portsmouth match preview
WHUFC.com
All of the early team news ahead of West Ham United's big Boxing Day fixture
on the south coast
24.12.2008
Barclays Premier League
Portsmouth v West Ham United
Friday 26 December
1pm
Referee: Steve Bennett
WHUTV - Full audio commentary
Introduction
* West Ham United head to Portsmouth on Boxing Day hoping to make if five
games undefeated away from home. The Hammers have conceded just two goals in
their last four games away from the Boleyn Ground, a fact made all more
impressive as two of those fixtures were at Anfield and Stamford Bridge.
* However, their task will not be easy as the London side have not beaten
the team from the south coast in seven attempts. In fact, the last time they
tasted victory over Friday's hosts was 1993.
* Gianfranco Zola's side go into the game on the back of the narrow 1-0
defeat by Aston Villa last Saturday. Due to the compact nature of the
Premier League table, though, despite there being seven places separating
the two teams, an away win would leave the sides just one point apart.
* James Milner's cross deflected off Lucas Neill to give the Midlanders the
win and deny the Hammers the point which would have moved them up to 14th in
the table. That freak goal means the team sit in 17th position with 19
points, but knowing a win could move them up to joint eleventh. Portsmouth
are tenth with 23 points and a victory for them could push them up to joint
seventh.
* Zola had more positive injury news ahead of the busy Christmas schedule as
he announced that Valon Behrami, Matthew Etherington, James Collins and
Scott Parker could all be in contention for the Boxing Day game - while
Kieron Dyer may return for the FA Cup tie with Barnsley on Saturday week.
* West Ham United manager Zola said: "It's down to us. We played against
Liverpool away and Chelsea away, games which weren't easy for us, and we did
well because of us. Against Portsmouth it depends on how we perform and if
we can continue to perform as we have done then we're likely to get a good
result."
* Portsmouth manager Tony Adams said: "It's about three points. Whether it's
West Ham or Arsenal you try to win the football game. You can't section it
off and say that's a win, that's a loss. It's try to take three points
against West Ham and then look at the next one."
* West Ham are next in action two days after the Portsmouth fixture on
Sunday 28 December when they play host to Stoke City. Pompey face the tricky
task of Adams' return to Arsenal the same day.
* Of the last six fixtures between the teams, Portsmouth have won four with
two draws, including the goalless game at the Boleyn Ground in last month.
The last West Ham United win was a 2-0 triumph at home in the old first
division in the 1992/93 season.
Last time out
Saturday 20 December
West Ham United 0-1 Aston Villa
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Davenport, Upson, Ilunga, Collison (Tristan
84), Noble, Parker (Mullins 46), Behrami (Bowyer 57), Bellamy, Cole
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Boa Morte, Faubert, Di Michele
Saturday 20 December
Bolton Wanderers 2-1 Portsmouth
Portsmouth: James, Pamarot, Campbell, Distin, Hreidarsson, Diop (Nugent 75),
Davis, Hughes (Diarra 63), Kranjcar, Defoe, Crouch
Subs not used: Ashdown, Little, Kanu, Armand Traore, Wilson
Goal: Crouch 20
Team news
* Behrami should be over the minor back problem he picked up in the game
against Aston Villa, while the same could be said for Scott Parker who was
taken off at half-time in that contest as a precaution - having suffered
with a slight muscle problem earlier in the week.
* Etherington has recovered from the virus that has kept him out of late and
Collins is back in contention after recovering from a calf injury but the
Welsh international faces stiff competition to get his place back after
Calum Davenport's recent fine form.
* Two more defenders in Jonathan Spector and Walter Lopez are also pushing
hard after recent success with the reserves.
* Dyer also edges ever nearer to full fitness and could be fit enough to
play a part against Barnsley in the FA Cup depending on his progress. Dean
Ashton is also progressing well and is back running, although there is still
no date set for his return.
* Craig Bellamy's one-match ban for five cautions, reached at Villa, will be
served against Stoke City on Sunday. Parker is also one yellow away from a
ban, having amassed four to date.
* Nigel Quashie, one of seven players out on loan, has extended his loan
spell with Birmingham City. The other five out on loan are Jimmy Walker
(Colchester United), Jordan Spence (Leyton Orient), James Tomkins (Derby
County), Josh Payne (Colchester United), Kyel Reid (Blackpool) and Junior
Stanislas (Southend United).
* Portsmouth have lost Lassana Diarra to Real Madrid, and have concerns over
Glen Johnson, Younes Kaboul and John Utaka - all with minor knocks, although
the first two did play in their last outing.
Background
* The teams last met at the Boleyn Ground on 15 November this year. The home
side nearly won the game when Craig Bellamy's free-kick clipped the top of
the crossbar before going over, although Robert Green had to make several
excellent saves in the second half to keep the scores level.
* The lineups were:
West Ham United: Green, Neill, Collins, Upson, Ilunga (Faubert 61), Behrami,
Parker (Mullins 75), Collison, Sears (Etherington 46), Cole, Bellamy
Subs not used: Lastuvka, Davenport, Bowyer, Di Michele
Portsmouth: James, Johnson, Kaboul, Distin, Pamarot, Diop, Davis, Diarra
(Armand Traore 19), Belhadj, Crouch (Kanu 75), Defoe
Subs not used: Ashdown, Hreidarsson, Nugent, Mvuemba, Hughes
* Portsmouth could name three former West Ham United players in their team.
David James, Glen Johnson and Jermain Defoe all played for the London side
in the 2003 season, when the club were relegated to the Championship.
Head to head (last six meetings, league unless stated)
15 November 2008 - West Ham United 0-0 Portsmouth
8 April 2008 - West Ham United 0-1 Portsmouth
27 October 2007 - Portsmouth 0-0 West Ham United
26 December 2006 - West Ham United 1-2 Portsmouth
14 October 2006 - Portsmouth 2-0 West Ham United
18 March 2006 - West Ham United 2-4 Portsmouth
Overall record v Portsmouth (all competitions): W 11, D 5, L 14
General information
For ticket information, click here . For details on getting to Fratton Park,
click here.
Weather: The forecast is for a bright, chilly day with temperatures not
expected to get above 5C.
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'It is a great experience'
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola has faith in his plan to help West Ham United become a force
in the Barclays Premier League
24.12.2008
Gianfranco Zola is fully focused on better fortunes for West Ham United
manager as 2008 draws to a close with two Christmas games in quick
succession.
Having seen his team go four games unbeaten on the road and more than match
the nation's top sides this month, Zola is rightly upbeat about the
prospects for the new year to come after his early days at the Boleyn Ground
helm. "As far I am concerned, it's been a great experience," he said at his
weekly pre-match press conference. "It's a strong challenge and it's pushing
me a lot.
"I'm focused on the next match. We know we've been unlucky. We didn't
deserve [to lose to Aston Villa last weekend] but that's football. So being
focused and ready for the next match is vital for us. On Wednesday we'll
start focusing on what to do to beat Portsmouth. We need to improve certain
things and we are going to be working on that."
Despite the recent frustrations of missed opportunities and dropped points,
he will not be deterred from his task. "I want to improve as a manager and
person. It's a big challenge. I've had so many problems to look after but I
like competing. No matter how it goes, I've accepted this job and I feel it
is making me better."
The manager spoke at length again about the long-term plan he signed up for
with CEO Scott Duxbury and technical director Gianluca Nani back in
September and his determination to see it succeed in the months and years to
come. "The project is to improve the team, it is as simple as that. Nothing
has changed … the club remains positive and wants to keep on with this."
In this regard, the manager knows that he may well look to improve the squad
in future but for now is preparing only with Friday and Sunday's "important
games" away to Portsmouth and at home with Stoke City respectively in mind.
"They are certainly two vital games for us because this the moment to change
things around. and they have come at the right time. They are in a short
period of time so it is down to our physical condition but we can do it.
"I have to try to make the best to help this team to progress. We might be
trying to look for other players to improve what we have got [but] I still
trust these players and think they can change it."
When asked to restate the intentions in the transfer window next month, Zola
said: "The club have been very good to me and always been straightforward
and I don't think they want to make this team weaker. Everyone wants to
progress in this project … I want to try and improve the team if I can."
The next few days will be a busy period at Chadwell Heath but the manager
said he will still find time for festive cheer. "I certainly will enjoy
Christmas even though it's a difficult time. Football is like this.
Sometimes you get bad moments but you have to remain focused and do the best
you can and I'm sure here everyone is doing the best that they can. I remain
positive that everything will be good."
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Hammers in hospital visit
WHUFC.com
The West Ham United first-team squad paid a visit to hospital to give
presents to sick children
24.12.2008
Christmas is a time for thinking about others and the West Ham United
players showed their commitment to the festive spirit when they took a trip
to a local hospital to visit children.
Led by manager Gianfranco Zola and captain Lucas Neill, the squad arrived
laden with gifts for the children on the Tropical Lagoon Ward at the Queen's
hospital in Romford. Their arrival sparked great excitement amongst the
patients, who all rushed to get their favourite star's autograph.
James Collins said the squad were just pleased to give something back. "It's
good coming down and seeing all of the kids and it's nice to be able to put
a smile on their faces at Christmas time," he said. "Any little thing we can
do to help is a bonus. It's no trouble for us to come down for one afternoon
especially when the kids are in all year round. All the boys have made a big
effort and made the kids really happy."
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Ticket office at Christmas
WHUFC.com
Supporters should take note of when the stadium ticket office is open for
business this holiday season
24.12.2008
The West Ham United ticket office can confirm the Christmas opening hours
for those fans not wanting to miss out on a festive feast of football.
There is still time to see if the team can end 2008 on a high at home
against Stoke City this Sunday 28 December while the magic of the FA Cup
will be upon us on Saturday 3 January when Barnsley arrive at the Boleyn
Ground. There are also reduced prices on offer for the cup contest. To make
online bookings, click here.
OPENING HOURS
Wednesday 24 December - CLOSED
Thursday 25 December - CLOSED
Friday 26 December - CLOSED
Saturday 27 December - 9am-1pm
Sunday 28 December - 9.30am-2pm (Closed after match)
Monday 29 December - 9am-5pm
Tuesday 30 December - 9am-5pm
Wednesday 31 December - 9am-1pm
Thursday 1 January 2009 - CLOSED
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Cole working hard
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole feels that the hard work he has been putting in at training
will soon pay off in matches
23.12.2008
Carlton Cole is a man on a mission as he begins preparation for the Boxing
Day trip to Portsmouth.
The 25-year-old striker was desperately unlucky not to hit the back of the
net in the weekend game with Aston Villa and manager Gianfranco Zola vowed
to spend 'every day' working with No12 until he is 'fed up'. Far from being
displeased, Cole believes the improvements to his game as a result of his
manager's coaching are already starting to show.
"If you look at my game, I wasn't even getting into positions to score," he
said. "But now I've analysed my game and I'm trying to improve my end
product. The Villa game one of those games where I should have scored at
least twice as I should have against Chelsea. I'm getting into the positions
but now it's about executing it."
Cole had several chances in the second period to open the scoring but each
time found Brad Friedel equal to his and his team-mates' efforts, much to
the striker's frustration. He said "Friedel did well and after the game he
said to me that he owed me one because I scored against him last year.
Hopefully next time I'll take my chances and it will come.
"I'm working hard everyday in training and all I need is for it to break for
me and go in the net. There were a few when there were ricochets or the
keeper made a save and it just dropped two yards away and it would be a tap
in, but that's the way it is going."
Friedel's fine showing made it two goalkeepers in a week that frustrated
Cole after Petr Cech denied the forward a last-minute winner at Stamford
Bridge with another wonder save. The former England Under-21 striker knows
his misfortune cannot last forever and he will be looking to prove it when
West Ham United play two games in two days, starting with the trip to
Fratton Park on Boxing Day. "I need a lucky goal, any kind of goal. I don't
care how it goes in. I'm in the box trying to fashion an opportunity and now
it's about scoring.
"It's good to have these games in quick succession and now we've got the
chance to get the right result in the next game and hopefully we can use
Saturday's game as a boost like we did when we did well against Chelsea."
United are unbeaten in four away from home but have found the going slightly
harder at the Boleyn Ground, a fact Cole puts down to opponents' tactics
when they visit east London. "We were better second half against Villa and
hopefully we can do that again next time.
"When teams come to Upton Park they sit back and try to hit us on the
counterattack. I think we have problems breaking teams down and we have to
try and work on fashioning chances. We had a few at the weekend which we
should have scored. We just need to keep plugging away and doing our best to
get the right results."
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Portsmouth v West Ham
PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Fratton Park Date: Friday, 26 December
Kick-off: 1300 GMT
Coverage: BBC Radio Solent 96.1FM and Hants DAB, updates on BBC Radio 5
Live, BBC Sport website & highlights on Match of the Day
BBC.co.uk
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Portsmouth will again be without Glenn Johnson. The England International
has suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee injury. Younes Kaboul
will return to the squad on Christmas Day and is set to feature after an
ankle problem. Midfielder Lassana Diarra has signed for Real Madrid.
West Ham Team News to follow.
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Portsmouth manager Tony Adams: "We have to cut out the silly defensive
mistakes and get back to keeping clean sheets and making ourselves hard to
beat. "I am not going to lie to anyone. To go 2-0 down in three minutes as
we did at Bolton on Saturday is unforgivable and we have been beating
ourselves with some of the goals we have conceded. "I would like nothing
more than two 1-0 wins from our two Christmas games."
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Zola - Key men not for sale
Hammers boss vows to keep star names
Last updated: 23rd December 2008
SSN
West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola insists he will not be forced to sell any of
his star players in the winter transfer window. The Hammers are struggling
just above the Premier League relegation zone and reinforcements appear to
be needed to lift the Upton Park club. Reports suggest that the Italian
manager will only be able to spend in January if he raises the funds by
parting company with one his key men. But the former Chelsea striker is
determined to retain the services of the likes of Craig Bellamy, Matthew
Upson, Valon Behrami, Robert Green, Dean Ashton and Scott Parker. Zola has
been given assurances by the club's board that players will not be sold
without his approval, and admits he would be distinctly unimpressed if the
situation changed. He said: "They are very good players and I'm not
surprised that big teams want them. "As far as I am concerned they are not
for sale and I don't want to sell my best players. I want to try to improve
the team if I can and that's the target for the January transfer window. "As
far as I'm concerned no, they won't be going. The club have told me I won't
be selling those players. "I would be very annoyed if we did. They have to
give me a very good reason if they do that. "The club have been very good to
me and I don't think they want to make this team weaker."
Zola refused to elaborate on how he would react if the club decided to sell
to bring in new players, and reiterated his faith in his employers. "We
can't really talk about what could be," he continued. "In football you never
know. "I won't be pleased because I want to improve the team. "I have faith.
The club remain positive and want to keep on with this project. "If we can't
make it with this team then we might make changes. Everyone wants to make
this project work. We want to strengthen the squad."
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Walker open to Us deal
Keeper enjoying chance to play first-team football
Last updated: 23rd December 2008
SSN
Experienced goalkeeper Jimmy Walker admits he is open to staying at
Colchester United permanently. Walker joined Colchester on loan from West
Ham United last month and his temporary deal expires in early January. He
has made four appearances for the Us and is enjoying the chance to play
regular first-team football with the League One club. The 35-year-old is
unsure of his long-term future, but will not rule out agreeing contract to
stay with Paul Lambert's side. "I don't know what the future holds for me
yet," Walker told the Gazette. "I spoke to the gaffer and we decided on a
month's loan to get some games because I haven't played as much as I'd have
liked. "It was the right decision for me and who knows, at the end of the
month we shall see what happens. "Colchester have two really good keepers in
Dean (Gerken) and Mark Cousins, who have impressed me a lot in training.
"The future looks good for them and hopefully I can be a part of that but
we'll see."
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Hammers monitor Mattock
Foxes starlet attracting interest
Last updated: 23rd December 2008
SSN
West Ham are keeping tabs on highly-rated Leicester City defender Joe
Mattock, skysports.com understands. Mattock is regarded as one the most
promising young players in England and he is the second youngest player to
represent England Under 21s. The left-back made his debut for Leicester at
the tender age of 16 and he has been earning rave reviews at the Walkers
Stadium. The 18-year-old is regaded as one of the best young talents outside
the Premier League and Leicester are widely believed to have fieled a number
of enquires from clubs for Mattock. West Ham have held a long-term interest
in Mattock and new Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is monitoring his progress.
The likes of Liverpool, Aston Villa, Everton and Sunderland have been
credited with an interest in Mattock, but West Ham are hoping to steal a
march on their rivals with doubts continuing to surround the future of
on-loan defender Herita Ilunga. Ilunga is on a season long-loan from
Toulouse, but the player has suggested he would be interested in a move to a
bigger club if an offer came along and Mattock is thought to be on Zola's
list of potential signings. Leicester are keen to keep hold of their prize
asset as they look to win promotion from League One, but they could face a
battle to ward off suitors when the transfer window reopens next month.
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Blues extend Quashie loan
Birmingham extend Hammers midfielder's loan by another month
By Richard Bailey Last updated: 23rd December 2008
SSN
Birmingham City have announced that on-loan West Ham midfielder Nigel
Quashie has extended his loan at the club. The midfielder has played ten
times for Alex McLeish's men this campaign after missing the majority of
last season with an ankle injury. The Scotland international will now stay
at St Andrew's until 17th January and McLeish believes that he has earned
the extra month. The former Rangers boss also insists that the 30-year-old
can improve and get even fitter during his extra time at the Championship
club. "We've extended the loan for another month," McLeish told the club's
official website. "We've got Nigel to a level of fitness where we've worked
hard with him and he has steadily improved, so I think he's worth another
month. "But I think he can bring more and we've got four of five games left
where he can perform for us before his time is up and then we can look at
things depending on how the form has gone. "We have to keep the incentive
there for Nigel and keep pushing him to get to an even better level than
he's at, because he's done well for us in recent weeks. "There's a little
bit of pressure on him but for me that's what good players thrive on and if
he responds to that and gives us a good return and the team get winning
again then I think there's scope for something else to be done." Meanwhile
19-year-old goalkeeper Artur Krysiak has returned to St Andrew's after a
brief spell on loan at fellow Championship side Swansea. The teenager made
just two starts for Roberto Martinez's side, both against the Blues'
promotion rivals and league leaders Wolves in October.
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West Ham must not sell Craig Bellamy and other stars warns Gianfranco Zola
By Mike Walters 24/12/2008
The Mirror
Gianfranco Zola has warned West Ham's bean-counters to keep their hands off
the club's crown jewels and that he will not tolerate them being sold over
his head.
Zola came out fighting last night with a categorical assurance that he will
not sanction any firesale of key players Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Scott
Parker, Valeron Behrami and Craig Bellamy in next month's transfer window.
And in his most transparent threat to take on the Hammers' beleaguered
Icelandic owners if any of the untouchables were shipped out to ease the
club's financial position, Zola admitted: "I would be very annoyed if they
did that." With only three wins in 15 games - and only four goals in the
last 12 - Zola's managerial baptism has turned into a nightmare. Last
weekend's unlucky home defeat by Aston Villa left the Hammers only one point
above the relegation zone, and Zola desperately needs a change of fortune in
the Christmas double-header with Portsmouth and Stoke. But with a possible
£50 million invoice on the way from Sheffield United over the Carlos Tevez
affair, and chairman Bjorgulfor Gudmundsson battling financial meltdown in
his native Iceland, 2009 promises only uncertainty at Upton Park. Aston
Villa and Manchester City are leading the chase for £10 million-rated
Bellamy, Juventus are lining up a £6.5 million move for Swiss midfielder
Behrami and Arsenal have been monitoring ex-Gooner Upson mature into an
England defender. But Zola insisted: "They are very good players and I'm not
surprised that big teams want them, but as far as I'm concerned they are not
for sale. "I'm not interested in selling my best players because I want to
try and improve the team if I can - that's our target for the January
window. "Have I been told I have to sell them? Absolutely not. The club have
told me they are not going to sell them, so of course I would be very
annoyed if they were sold, and they would have to give me a very good
reason. "But the club have been very good to me and I don't believe they are
interested in making the team weaker. Everyone wants to progress with this
project. "I don't want to talk about what may happen because in football you
never know what is around the corner. I will not be pleased (by player
sales) because I wnat to improve the team, but I have faith and the club
remains positive. "For me it's been a great experience - yes, it's been a
strong challenge and it's pushing me a lot. I've had a lot of problems to
look after, but I love competing. No matter how it goes, I've accepted this
job and I'm happy."
Zola's leading scorer Carlton Cole has managed just four goals in all
competitions this season, but Zola is anxious to take the pressure off his
strikers against Pompey on Boxing Day. Cole's finishing has been woeful of
late, but Zola insisted: "The pressure is on everybody, not just the
strikers. Obviously they feel like they want to do more, but they have to
carry on working and keep believing in themselves. "If they lose that
self-belief, then it becomes very difficult. But for now I am just focusing
on what we have here - if we can't get the team to progress over the next
couple of games, we might consider bringing in someone else."
Zola's cheery demeanour as a player with Chelsea has been steadily eroded by
the stark reality of management and the precarious nature of West Ham's
financial predicament. He admitted his mood was dark for 24 hours after
James Milner's freakish late winner for Villa last Saturday, but he added:
"It's already over. "I was very frustrated the day after we've been unlucky
and we didn't deserve that - but the boys had a couple of days off and now
we can start focusing on trying to beat Portsmouth. "We need to improve
certain things to make us sharper, but the most important thing is that it's
down to us. We did well away at Liverpool and Chelsea away, but we did it
because of us. "And I showed the boys our stats from the last game, and from
them you would never have known that Villa were 3rd and we were fourth from
bottom.".
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Redknapp sees Bellamy as answer to Spurs crisis
By Sam Wallace
Wednesday, 24 December 2008
A move to Spurs would be another hugely lucrative move for Bellamy who is
understood to have doubled his wages when he left Liverpool in 2007
Independent.co.uk Web
Harry Redknapp has turned his sights on Craig Bellamy to solve his club's
goalscoring crisis. West Ham have asked for £15m but Redknapp believes he
can get the Welsh striker at a lower price provided he can sell players to
fund the deal.
The Tottenham manager has a number of targets, including Glen Johnson,
Stewart Downing and free agent Stephen Appiah, but is particularly concerned
by the absence of a proven goalscorer. While Bellamy's recent record would
hardly fit that bill – he has scored twice for West Ham this season –
Redknapp regards him as the best option currently available.
It would mean another hugely lucrative move for Bellamy who is understood to
have doubled his wages when he left Liverpool in 2007 for £7.5m. West Ham
believe they would be able to maximise value for Bellamy, who has also
interested Aston Villa, and would be prepared to let him leave. Spurs, who
play Fulham on Friday, are just one point off the relegation zone. Redknapp
said he was hopeful of a return for Jermaine Jenas, although Jonathan
Woodgate's injury was more serious than first thought.
He added that the "crazy prices" he had been quoted in the transfer market
had deterred him so far. Redknapp said: "I've got one or two players but I
can't say we are near to getting anybody. I've discussed it with the
chairman but one or two players that we mentioned, people were talking crazy
prices for. If we can't get the players I think will improve the squad, then
I won't bring in anybody. I'm not going to load us up with players that
aren't better than we've got."
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Zola pins his hopes on West Ham not selling club's star players in January
By Simon Cass Last updated at 11:48 PM on 23rd December 2008
Daily Mail
Gianfranco Zola has warned West Ham's board not to go back on their promise
by selling his star players in the transfer window. With cash-strapped owner
Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson struggling to find a buyer to match his £250million
valuation of the club, the vultures are circling in the hope of picking up a
bargain in the January sales. Craig Bellamy is a target for Manchester City,
Matthew Upson has a host of admirers and Valon Behrami is wanted by
Juventus, while Scott Parker and Robert Green are also attracting interest.
Additionally, Alan Curbishley, the man Zola replaced, is claiming breach of
contract and constructive dismissal and believes he is entitled to £3million
for the two years he had left on his contract when he quit in September.
Curbishley left after claiming George McCartney was sold to Sunderland
without his consent. The ex-manager also contends he wanted to keep Anton
Ferdinand who, he alleges, had no desire to move to the Stadium of Light.
However, Zola insists he has no reason to distrust his employers when it
comes to player sales. But should they opt to sell some without his consent,
then West Ham's board are likely to be on the look-out for a new manager.
sked directly whether he has been told he must sell some of his best players
in January, Zola said: 'Absolutely not. As far as I'm concerned, the club
have told me I won't be selling those players. I would be very annoyed if we
did. 'The board have to give me a very good reason if they do that. The club
have been very good to me and I don't think they want to make the team
weaker. 'Everyone wants to make this project work. They're very good players
and I'm not surprised big teams want them. 'As far as I'm concerned they're
not for sale. I want to try to improve the team and that's the target for
the January transfer window. 'I might be trying to look for other players to
improve the situation, but I still trust these players and think they can
change it. 'Hopefully they can do this and I'll stick with them. We're just
focusing on what we have here. 'If we can't get the team to progress then we
might consider getting someone else but until then we've still got a couple
of games.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer closes in on Hammers comeback
This Is London
Struggling West Ham today received a timely boost with the news that Kieron
Dyer is almost ready to return. Dyer, who broke a leg 16 months ago and then
had to delay his return because of a stress fracture, is not quite ready to
be involved in West Ham's vital Christmas matches, away at Portsmouth on
Boxing Day and at home to Stoke next Sunday, but could be on the bench for
the FA Cup third round tie at home to Barnsley on 3 January. Manager
Gianfranco Zola meanwhile has reiterated his determination to hang on to his
best players despite increasing speculation that Craig Bellamy, Robert Green
and Matthew Upson could all go in January.
"As far as I am concerned we are not going to sell these players," he said.
"I would be very annoyed if that changes." Zola will have central defender
James Collins back available for Boxing Day after a calf muscle injury while
midfield player Valon Behrami, who was forced to leave the field against
Aston Villa, has recovered from a back problem.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Faubert & Boa Morte on Their Way?
West Ham Till I Die
So, Julien Faubert wants to go. Nigel Quashie is staying at Birmingham for
another month and possibly permanently. And Luis Boa Morte may be on his way
too.
Happy Christmas!
But it's not all good news. There are various reports that West Ham have put
a £12 million price tag on Bellamy, £10 million on Upson and that Chelsea
and Juventus are both interested in Valon Behrami.
And now, to get you all in the Christmas spirit, sing this to the tune of
Rupert the Bear!
There's a little bear like you've never seen before whose a lot of fun.
Hammers fans every where tried to love him more wishing he'd be number one.
There's a million stories to be told of the things that, he's done.
And he's going to share them all if you so come along.
Oh Julien, Julien Faubert every one sing his name.
Julien, Julien Faubert every one come and join, in all of his games
There is Nigel Quashie, little Boa Morte too and a whole lot more.
They are Julien's Friends and they are waiting here for you so unlock the
door
There's a magic land not far away from here and they call it, West Ham.
Where you'll meet a little Zola bear if you are good.
Oh, Julien, Julien Faubert etc
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola warns West Ham not to sell
By Daniella Matar, PA
Tuesday, 23 December 2008
Independent.co.uk Web
West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola would be "very annoyed" if the club renege
on their promise not to offload anyone in the January transfer window. With
West Ham just a point off the bottom three, changes appear to be needed at
Upton Park. Reports suggest Zola will have to sell if he wants to buy in
January, with speculation rife that Craig Bellamy could be on his way out in
order to raise much-needed cash. However, the Hammers boss insists he has
been told he can keep all his star players. "They are very good players and
I'm not surprised that big teams want them," said Zola. "As far as I am
concerned they are not for sale and I don't want to sell my best players. "I
want to try to improve the team if I can and that's the target for the
January transfer window."
Zola confirmed that the list of those who have had a 'not-for-sale' tag
firmly slapped on them includes Bellamy, Matthew Upson, Valon Behrami,
Robert Green, Dean Ashton and Scott Parker. He continued: "As far as I'm
concerned no, they won't be going. The club have told me I won't be selling
those players. "I would be very annoyed if we did. They have to give me a
very good reason if they do that. "The club have been very good to me and I
don't think they want to make this team weaker."
Zola refused to elaborate on how he would react if the club decided to sell
Bellamy to bring in new players, and reiterated his faith in his employers.
"We can't really talk about what could be," he continued. "In football you
never know. "I won't be pleased because I want to improve the team. "I have
faith. The club remain positive and want to keep on with this project. "If
we can't make it with this team then we might make changes. "Everyone wants
to make this project work. We want to strengthen the squad."
Before the transfer window opens again, West Ham face Portsmouth and Stoke
and Zola insists he is just focusing on those at the moment. With only one
win in their past 12 league games and having scored only five goals in those
matches, the Hammers boss admits the pressure is on. "This is part of the
game," added Zola. "The pressure is on everybody. "The pressure is on
Portsmouth, Chelsea, it's all over. You have to keep confident and keep
working. "My strikers obviously feel like they want to do more. They have to
carry on working and believe in themselves. "If they lose that self-belief
it makes it very difficult. "At the moment we are just focusing on what we
have here. If we can't get the team to progress then we might consider
getting someone else, until then we've still got a couple of games."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham set Bellamy asking price at £12m
Written by Eddie Griffin
Soccerlens
According to the Daily Mirror, West Ham are willing to sell in-demand
striker Craig Bellamy, but they're holding out for £12m for the Welsh
striker. Yesterday, I reported that Aston Villa were interested in making an
offer of £7m plus striker Marlon Harewood for Bellamy, Of the clubs that
have been linked with Bellamy, the £12m asking price would all but eliminate
Celtic from the race. Aston Villa might prefer to stick to the cash/player
swap for the sake of not overspending, but £12m is not out of their budget
in the least. That leaves Tottenham and Manchester City, both of whom are in
need of a striker, and are more than equipped to shell out the £12m without
a problem. The big question is though, whether or not they'd actually want
to. I know West Ham no doubt want to make a profit on a player they spent
£7.5m on in 2007, even though his goal totals might seem to warrant
otherwise. Is Bellamy worth £12m, or are the cash-strapped Hammers asking
for too much for him?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham want £22 million for Bellamy and Upson......
4SportSake.com
Tottenham, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Celtic are all interested , West
Ham have slapped big transfer fees on striker Craig Bellamy and defender
Matthew Upson. Bellamy's price has risen now from £6 million to £12 million
and Upson's valuation has been set at £10 million.
Tottenham, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Celtic have all made enquiries
about Bellamy, who could be one of the hottest tickets in the transfer
window - even at his inflated fee. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is keen if he
can sell one of his strikers, City are still in the hunt although Mark
Hughes's job is hanging by a thread, while Villa and Celtic are reluctant to
pay the full sum.
Bellamy's price has risen because there are so few genuinely experienced
Premier League strikers around. An insider at one of Bellamy's suitors
revealed: "The price was starting at around £8m but now it has gone higher
and higher - we could all do with Man City dropping out of the race."
Hughes's City and Redknapp's Spurs both want England defender Matthew Upson,
and will pay £8m, but the fee is £10m for the defender.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's End-Of-Term Report
Alex V - Tue Dec 23 2008
West Ham Online
It's been a strange few months. Curbishley left somewhat unexpectedly in
controversial circumstances, Zola and Clarke came in from leftfield, and
there's just no doubt that the club feels very different now. With so many
distractions off the field, with West Ham's financial situation the subject
of incessant rumours, our actual on-the-field performances seem to have
slipped under the radar somewhat. Let's not forget it's about football, not
finance - how do we rate Zola so far?
Since Zola took over there has been a huge amount of experimentation - it
makes it genuinely hard to assess our strengths relative to those around us.
I doubt any other club in this league has flitted between 4-4-2, 4-5-1,
4-3-3 and even 4-1-2-1-2 as much as Zola's West Ham. I think if we had to
find one reason for our current position in the league, it would be the huge
amount of experimentation and change under Zola. Is this a sign that Zola is
inconsistent in his selections, inexperienced or naive in his approach, that
he is asking too much of our players in terms of tactics, or that he is
forward-thinking, searching for a winning formula with the players that he
has available?
One thing you cannot fault him on is bravery. We turned up at Chelsea the
other week with a formation that West Ham have never played in a match to my
knowledge, and any standard logic suggests that you don't pick the best team
in Europe as your opposition when you're trying out a new tactic. We drew
the match and could have won it, and I felt it was a superb performance in
which we battled when we had to, but played some great football under
pressure as well.
My opinion is that West Ham looked pedestrian playing 4-4-2 under Curbishley
- many blamed the manager for this, but I think the truth is that we just
never had the sort of creativity from midfield to make the formation a
matchwinning proposition. When this squad of players play 4-4-2 they look
solid and difficult to beat, but never inspirational. So I welcome Zola's
change of approach - he is genuinely trying to find a different way to win,
and maybe it's an approach that will eventually bear fruits. On the other
hand, there has to come a time when experimentation has to stop, and perhaps
that time is fast approaching.
I think it's incredibly blinkered to just look at our recent form and judge
that we are necessarily destined for relegation, or even a struggle in the
league this season. Our form can look poor statistically on paper, but in
many ways our last 4 performances have been incredibly encouraging. It's an
incredibly tight league this year and we are a couple of wins from relative
safety, so there's absolutely no need to panic at all. At the same time no
club has the divine right to be guaranteed safety, and I don't think any
team outside the top 5 is breathing easily at this stage - 3 from 15 have to
be relegated. I don't think we'll be part of that 3, but who knows what
twists and turns are ahead of us.
I think if you look at our actual fixtures so far, there are only really a
few that you could really criticise. Take that capitulation against Everton
(who we outplayed for 80 mins) and the offday against Bolton out of the
list, and it looks like a near-reasonable set of results. If we had held out
against Everton we would find ourselves a point behind them in the table
now, and 2 points off 7th place. When you're one result away from that sort
of position in the table, there is simply not a lot to really worry about...
yet.
The big plus player-wise so far this season has been Jack Collison - it
seems incredible to think that he has been loitering on the fringes of the
team for a couple of years now, because he looks so naturally able within
it. He has a good physique and a decent engine, he is industrious and in a
similar mould to Noble. It's his close control and temperament under
pressure that have really impressed me - he just seems to be technically in
command of the ball, and in a Zola team committed to pass-and-move, he seems
a perfect fit. I like the way that he has been sparingly introduced into the
team by Zola, and I've little doubt that within the next 12 months he will
become a permanent fixture in the side, if he isn't already.
Valon Behrami is another huge plus. His work-rate is absolutely phenomenal,
and he has a bit of everything - he can run at players, has a real bite in
the tackle, doesn't mind getting physical, and can get up and down the pitch
all day. He's also been played in four different positions at the club
already without his form dipping. I think if he can be played in a regular
position, preferably central midfield, then we will see even more from him.
The only worry is that he seems to have virtually everything you could want
in a player, so he is one that I would worry about us keeping hold of - like
Diarra at Portsmouth, or Tevez when he was here, I just feel that eventually
the vultures will swoop, he is too good a player unfortunately.
Another big plus is the growing solidity of our back five. Injury problems
hampered our early-season, but I think the defence has a much more solid
look to it as the season has gone on. Green is Green, just a good asset all
round. Ilunga is a great find at left-back, at least the equal of McCartney.
Neill has been majestic in the last few games - absolutely the best form I
have seen from him at the club. Upson has been magnificent ever since he
joined West Ham, and I fear that he will be a player on every club's most
wanted list in January - who wouldn't want to buy a player of that quality?
It's great to see Collins back to the form he showed almost two years ago -
the gamble of selling Ferdinand may eventually pay off, with Collins given a
chance to claim a place, and Tomkins getting some positive reports on loan
at Derby. Injuries permitting, I love the look of our back five - we just
have to keep the damn thing together past January :).
Carlton Cole seems to be this season's current scapegoat, now that Faubert
has been dropped - the fanbase always seem to like to have one player on
whom to blame every ill. I pray that one day we just become a bit more
reasonable in our approach, and realise that it's just a bit stupid to pick
on one player. Leave that sort of thing in the playground, kids. Apparently
Cole's problem is goalscoring - he is only running neck and neck with Santa
Cruz and ahead of Heskey. Apparently he should be matching Anelka. He does
have 8 matches without a goal, but he'd have to go another 11 to match
Tevez's goalless record when he joined the club. Cole seems to me to be the
perfect case of a player who isn't anywhere near as bad as people say, but
having been affected by criticism his form dips to match the expectations of
the fans - he does seem tentative in front of goal just now, who wouldn't be
with thousands of fans screaming at you every time you make a slight
mistake. Keep at it, Carlton - I think you're a hugely talented forward with
many years at the top of the game ahead of you, hopefully with West Ham.
The truth is that goals have been a slight problem for the side just
recently, but of course it's not just Cole to blame - there's been a lack of
goals from everyone in the side recently. I'm sure Bellamy would concede
that his return has been poor, but there has been little or no support from
others in the team either. Having sorted out our defensive frailties to some
extent, there needs to be a focus on making and taking chances - that needs
to be remedied either on the training pitch or in the January transfer
market. Of course the cavalry charge may come from the sidelines - Dyer is
now free from injury, and of course Ashton is a huge bonus to come at some
point. If both of those were fit we would be higher up the table, and
there'd be no crisis whatsoever. And at some point they will be fit.
All in all it seems to have been a settling-in period for Zola and Clarke,
and a bit of different direction for the players to get used to - we have
mis-fired at times, and there's an incredible variety to the performances in
terms of quality. I think we'd be higher in the table under Curbishley, but
perhaps we wouldn't have learned as much, or have been in a position to
really progress as a team. I like Zola's approach - he is brave, willing to
experiment, and committed in the end to a style of football that I think
fits a certain sort of West Ham tradition. Di Canio would love playing in
Zola's West Ham - so would Berkovic, Brooking or any number of the really
talented players that I have loved to watch over the years. If Zola's plan
comes off, I get the feeling we will be one of the more entertaining, and
effective, sides in this league. That's something to really look forward to.
Happy Christmas everybody!
(NOTE: I'll be writing about the January transfer window before the new
year, so please save up your aggro for that topic rather than clogging up
this thread with rants about the chairman's pursestrings)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammer threatens to leave Upton Park
by Laurent Picard , 23 December 2008
Setanta
Julien Faubert has threatened to leave West Ham and return to France if
Gianfranco Zola does not play him more regularly. The Hammers' right
midfielder Faubert is very frustrated by his lack of action, as he sat on
the bench during the clashes with Chelsea and Aston Villa. The 25-year-old's
priority is to revive his international career and he understands that
moving back to his homeland would boost his chances. Faubert has hinted he
could be interested in moving from London during the January transfer
window, while West Ham need to raise some cash to sort their economic
crisis. Faubert told France-Football: "I must speak with the coach,
Gianfranco Zola, to see what he wants from me. I must confess how
disappointed I have been to remain on the bench for the game against Chelsea
that was shown everywhere in Europe and especially in France. "I should keep
my cool and not act under pressure. There's nothing concrete (with other
clubs). "Why not returning (to the French league)? I'm 25 and think about
France and the 2010 World Cup every day. I tasted it and I'm missing it. "I
really want to play for Les Bleus again. And I know that you have to play
and be good to make it. This could be with West Ham or elsewhere."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola And The Dutch Oven
Just Like My Dreams
"What occasions the greater part of the world's quarrels? Simply this: Two
minds meet and do not understand each other in time enough to prevent any
shock of surprise at the conduct of either party"
John Keats
Krzysztof Kieslowski once said that optimism is two lovers walking into the
sunset arm in arm. Or maybe into the sunrise- whatever appeals to you. With
one round of media interviews yesterday evening, Gianfranco Zola dropped the
first metaphoric fart in the marital bed and how the United board now reacts
will determine the future of this fumbling, tentative relationship.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Boxing Day fixture against
Portsmouth, Zola delivered a Christmas message to his West Ham paymasters
which emphasised he would be "very annoyed" if the club renege on their
promise not to offload anyone in the January transfer window. With West Ham
just a point off the bottom three, changes appear to be needed at Upton Park
and reports suggest Zola will have to sell if he wants to buy in January.
However, the Hammers boss insists he has received fresh assurances from the
Hammers board he can keep all his star players. "They are very good players
and I'm not surprised that big teams want them," said Zola. "As far as I am
concerned they are not for sale and I don't want to sell my best players. I
want to try to improve the team if I can and that's the target for the
January transfer window."
Zola confirmed that the list of those who have had a 'not-for-sale' tag
firmly slapped on them includes Craig Bellamy, Matthew Upson, Valon Behrami,
Robert Green, Dean Ashton and Scott Parker. He continued: "As far as I'm
concerned no, they won't be going. The club have told me I won't be selling
those players. I would be very annoyed if we did. They have to give me a
very good reason if they do that. The club have been very good to me and I
don't think they want to make this team weaker."
Zola is aware that the current board have form for selling players against a
manager's wishes, with the sales of George McCartney and Anton Ferdinand to
Sunderland in the summer cited by previous boss Alan Curbishley as the main
reason his role became untenable. But while his insistence that he would be
"very annoyed" if any of his super six were sold might not exactly sound
overtly aggressive, it would be unwise to believe Zola has not received
positive noises from the board to back such a stance, given it leaves him
with next to no wriggle-room in the event of sales.
Zola refused to elaborate on how he would react if the club went against his
wishes, and was keen to reiterate his faith in his employers. "We can't
really talk about what could be," he continued. "In football you never know.
I won't be pleased because I want to improve the team. I have faith. The
club remain positive and want to keep on with this project. If we can't make
it with this team then we might make changes. Everyone wants to make this
project work. We want to strengthen the squad."
Despite the frenzied activity of agents to place players away from the club
– Bellamy is thought keen to rejoin Mark Hughes at Manchester City – there
is believed to be some reticence from the board. They are aware of the
potential damage to the value of the company in, firstly, selling its best
assets and, secondly, further financial damage which would be caused by
relegation. So for all the gloomy talk of financial meltdown and the threat
of relegation, the club remains positive about their predicament, despite
being just a point above the drop zone.
Before the transfer window opens again, West Ham face Portsmouth and Stoke
and Zola insists he is just focusing on those at the moment. With only one
win in their past 12 league games and having scored only five goals in those
matches, the Hammers boss admits the pressure is on. "This is part of the
game," added Zola. "The pressure is on everybody. The pressure is on
Portsmouth, Chelsea, it's all over. You have to keep confident and keep
working. My strikers obviously feel like they want to do more. They have to
carry on working and believe in themselves. If they lose that self-belief it
makes it very difficult. At the moment we are just focusing on what we have
here. If we can't get the team to progress then we might consider getting
someone else, until then we've still got a couple of games. Hopefully they
can do this and I'll stick with them. We're just focusing on what we have
here."
Having witnessed his team go four games unbeaten on the road and more than
match the nation's top sides this month, Zola is rightly upbeat about the
prospects for the new year to come after his early days at the Boleyn Ground
helm. Speaking on the official site, Zola insisted: "As far I am concerned,
it's been a great experience. It's a strong challenge and it's pushing me a
lot. I'm focused on the next match. We know we've been unlucky. We didn't
deserve [to lose to Aston Villa last weekend] but that's football. So being
focused and ready for the next match is vital for us. On Wednesday we'll
start focusing on what to do to beat Portsmouth. We need to improve certain
things and we are going to be working on that. I want to improve as a
manager and person. It's a big challenge. I've had so many problems to look
after but I like competing. No matter how it goes, I've accepted this job
and I feel it is making me better."
The next few days will be a busy period at Chadwell Heath but the manager
said he will still find time for festive cheer. "I certainly will enjoy
Christmas even though it's a difficult time. Football is like this.
Sometimes you get bad moments but you have to remain focused and do the best
you can and I'm sure here everyone is doing the best that they can. I remain
positive that everything will be good."
In other news, Julien Faubert has threatened to leave West Ham and return to
France if Gianfranco Zola does not play him more regularly. The Hammers'
right midfielder Faubert has become frustrated by his lack of action, as he
sat on the bench during the clashes with Chelsea and Aston Villa. The
25-year-old's priority is to revive his international career and he
understands that moving back to his homeland would boost his chances.
Faubert has hinted he could be interested in moving from London during the
January transfer window, while West Ham need to raise some cash to sort
their economic crisis.
Faubert told France-Football: "I must speak with the coach, Gianfranco Zola,
to see what he wants from me. I must confess how disappointed I have been to
remain on the bench for the game against Chelsea that was shown everywhere
in Europe and especially in France. I should keep my cool and not act under
pressure. There's nothing concrete (with other clubs). Why not returning (to
the French league)? I'm 25 and think about France and the 2010 World Cup
every day. I tasted it and I'm missing it. I really want to play for Les
Bleus again. And I know that you have to play and be good to make it. This
could be with West Ham or elsewhere."
Experienced goalkeeper legend Jimmy Walker admits he is open to staying at
Colchester United permanently. Walker joined Colchester on loan from West
Ham United last month and his temporary deal expires in early January. He
has made four appearances for the Us and is enjoying the chance to play
regular first-team football with the League One club.
The 35-year-old is unsure of his long-term future, but will not rule out
agreeing contract to stay with Paul Lambert's side. "I don't know what the
future holds for me yet," Walker told the Gazette. "I spoke to the gaffer
and we decided on a month's loan to get some games because I haven't played
as much as I'd have liked. It was the right decision for me and who knows,
at the end of the month we shall see what happens. Colchester have two
really good keepers in Dean (Gerken) and Mark Cousins, who have impressed me
a lot in training. The future looks good for them and hopefully I can be a
part of that but we'll see."
Lastly, Dagenham boss John Still is refusing to rule out a loan swoop for
West Ham United's exciting midfielder Tony Stokes cometh the January
transfer window, but only if any of his starlets get picked off by bigger
clubs. Still has revealed that the promising youngster has been training
with the club, with a view to a possible loan move. Despite the 21-year-old
having only made one appearance for his parent club, 'Stokesy' has built up
some experience with successful loan spells with the likes of Stevenage
Borough, Rushden & Diamonds and League One outfit Brighton & Hove Albion.
Still told the Ilford Recorde: "Tony trained with us last week and I've
known him since he was a lad. He's got a good attitude so I will be speaking
to Tony and West Ham, but nothing can be done until January. There's no
urgency, I couldn't just bring him in anyway as I have no facility to do
that, but if there is movement in what we do, it's something I could look
at."
Posted by Trilby at 00:08
Labels: The Media
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Zola insists he can buy in January
24.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola insists he expects to make signings in
January. I have to try to make the best to help this team to progress. We
might be trying to look for other players to improve what we have got [but]
I still trust these players and think they can change it," he told
whufc.com. When asked to restate the intentions in the transfer window next
month, Zola said: "The club have been very good to me and always been
straightforward and I don't think they want to make this team weaker.
Everyone wants to progress in this project … I want to try and improve the
team if I can."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Zola has no regrets over West Ham job
24.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Gianfranco Zola has no regrets taking the job at West Ham United. The
manager told whufc.com: "I want to improve as a manager and person. It's a
big challenge. I've had so many problems to look after but I like competing.
No matter how it goes, I've accepted this job and I feel it is making me
better. "The project is to improve the team, it is as simple as that.
Nothing has changed … the club remains positive and wants to keep on with
this."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham youngster Noble on Arsenal radar
24.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is keeping tabs on West Ham United's financial
situation. If the Hammers are forced into selling their top players in
January, Wenger is expected to move for midfielder Mark Noble. The Daily
Mail says Wenger is eyeing Noble as a replacement for crocked skipper Cesc
Fabregas.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Zola confident keeping squad together
24.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola is confident he'll keep his squad
together beyond the January market. "We can't really talk about what could
be," he said. "In football you never know. "I won't be pleased because I
want to improve the team. "I have faith. The club remain positive and want
to keep on with this project.
If we can't make it with this team then we might make changes. "Everyone
wants to make this project work. We want to strengthen the squad."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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