Daily WHUFC News - 15th July 2010

Winning start for Grant
WHUFC.com
Avram Grant ran the rule over 24 different players as the Hammers won away
to Peterborough United
14.07.2010

Peterborough United 1-2 West Ham United

Carlton Cole and Anthony Edgar were on target as Avram Grant's West Ham
United got their pre-season campaign under way with a good work-out away to
Peterborough United. England striker Cole produced a neat finish to score
midway through the first half, although the goal owed much to debutant
Thomas Hitzlsperger. The Germany midfielder was at the heart of the play in
a starting eleven captained by Mark Noble and featuring Luis Boa Morte
before the manager shuffled his pack at the break. A younger side found it a
tougher task after the interval with Peterborough demonstrating their
superior fitness - they have already played three matches this summer.
Despite conceding an equaliser, Anthony Edgar was able to strike a superb
winning goal on 65 minutes after running at the Posh defence. There was the
welcome presence of Herita Ilunga, James Tomkins, Kieron Dyer and Benni
McCarthy all returning after finishing last season on the sidelines. Most
bizarre, though, was the sight of former world heavyweight champion Mike
Tyson taking to the London Road pitch at half-time.

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Manager delighted with display
WHUFC.com
Seeing his first summer signing settle in straight away was a major plus
point at Peterborough
15.07.2010

Avram Grant declared himself "very pleased" after his first taste of life as
West Ham United manager ended in a 2-1 victory at Peterborough United. The
friendly match was a welcome contest for the new manager and he was able to
assess 24 players - including scheduled half-hour run-outs for the fit-again
Herita Ilunga and Kieron Dyer. The duo could be like new signings for the
Hammers after missing out on the majority of last season but the one actual
new recruit to date this summer was to prove the main man. Grant was full of
praise for Thomas Hitzlsperger's contribution after the Germany midfielder
lit up London Road on Wednesday evening with some delightful passing and
strong box-to-box work - all capped off by a great assist for Carlton Cole's
opener.

"He is a good player," said the manager, who was also pleased with the likes
of match-winning Academy graduate Anthony Edgar. "I said when I started here
that we want good professional players that know how to play good football
that can help our young talented players. You saw this tonight. Thomas did
very well. "We want to see young players in the team. Alongside them though
we want good positive experienced players and Thomas is one of them. He is
our first signing and he is so professional and a good example for the
others."

Grant also acknowledged Cole's contribution in a lively first half that saw
him spearhead a three-man forward line with Luis Boa Morte and Junior
Stanislas. "Carlton was good. He scored a fantastic goal. He is important
for us and we are very pleased to see all the injured players come back and
play without any problems. "I am very pleased. We have trained for ten days
and this is just the first game. The players did their job. We had a lot of
young players from our Academy and, as it was the first game, we didn't want
anyone to play more than 45 minutes. It is always good to have a winning
start."

With the squad plus Scott Parker - who returned to Chadwell Heath this week
- heading off to Germany on Friday, the pre-season preparations will take
another step forward. FIFA World Cup quartet Robert Green, Matthew Upson,
Jonathan Spector and Valon Behrami will all join up next week along with
Alessandro Diamanti, who has been given a few days' paternity leave.

Grant said there could also be a couple of others in the mix as well for the
coming weeks. "We are trying to bring in a few more players that can improve
the team, improve the squad. Our target is to make signings this week but we
cannot talk about them until they are done. In football anything can happen
until the last moment."

He revealed that his only thought is to continually improve, and therefore
would not be drawn on defining an exact number of players that would be
arriving. "It is not a number. It is about players that can improve the
team. If it will be two it is two, if it is five then five. We want players
that can improve us and this is our target, not numbers. "

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New signings within 72 hours
WHUFC.com
Avram Grant is set to see his West Ham United squad boosted in the next few
days
14.07.2010

West Ham United are pleased to announce the club should be in a position to
announce a number of exciting new signings by the end of the week. The
latest transfer update comes as Thomas Hitzlsperger, the club's first major
summer acquisition, made his debut for the Hammers in Wednesday night's away
friendly at Peterborough United. The Germany star played the first 45
minutes and set up Carlton Cole for a well-taken goal in a polished
performance. The new recruits will add extra international strength to Avram
Grant's squad with just a month to go until the start of the new Barclays
Premier League season. The Hammers will head to Germany on Friday for an
eight-day training camp that includes matches against Bundesliga side VfL
Borussia Monchengladbach and Greek champions Panathinaikos. The travelling
party will be joined by England trio Robert Green, Matthew Upson and Scott
Parker. The new signings will all make their Boleyn bow in the SBOBET Cup in
aid of the Academy against RC Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday 7 August
before the action all gets under way seven days later.

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Pompey want Ben-Haim exit
West Ham and an unnamed Greek club are interested in defender
Last updated: 14th July 2010
SSN

Portsmouth administrator Andrew Andronikou is desperate to get Tal
Ben-Haim's crippling salary off the club's wage bill and has revealed the
defender could follow Avram Grant to West Ham. The Israel international has
declined the chance to activate a release clause in his contract which was
valid at the end of last season following Pompey's relegation from the
Premier League. West Ham had in any case still started initial discussions
with Ben-Haim, but the talks reportedly broke down over the 28-year-old's
rumoured wage demands of £38,000-a-week. The arrival of former Portsmouth
boss Grantat Upton Park has resurrected the negotiations and, having sold
Papa Bouba Diop to AEK Athens, Andronikou is eager to see Ben-Haim join the
Hammers or an unnamed Greek club. "Now we are speaking about Ben-Haim, and
hopefully we can tie that one up in the next day or two," Andronikou told
The News. "There are a couple of clubs we are talking to and we are looking
to do a deal similar to Diop. "I have to say, Ben-Haim is one of the
highest-earning players. Potentially higher even than David James. "He did
not want to exercise his relegation release clause. As a club, we cannot
exercise it for him. "In the meantime, it's been a Jimmy Bullard scenario.
We are struggling to find clubs who want to pay the same sort of wages.
"West Ham are interested and there is a Greek team. We are hoping to meet
both to try to get things going. "The problem has been West Ham are not
willing to pay the player what he has been earning here and there is a gap
between the two. "Hopefully, something can be sorted very, very soon."

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Mokoena admits PL interest
South Africa defender could leave Pompey
Last updated: 14th July 2010
SSN

Portsmouth defender Aaron Mokoena has claimed that he has received offers
from three Premier League clubs. The 29-year-old enjoyed success at a
personal level at the World Cup with South Africa,despite the hosts not
making it past the group stage of the tournament. Portsmouth's relegation
from the Premier League had led to speculation he could leave despite his
affection for the club. If the tough tackling defender was to leave, he
stated that there were plenty of suitors with Bolton and West Ham reportedly
interested, as well as attention from Qatar and Turkey. A move to West Ham
would see Mokoena link up with former Pompey boss Avram Grant after the pair
were instrumental in the club's run to the FA Cup final last season. "I have
to confess my heart is still there at Portsmouth and they are offering me a
new contract if I remain with the club," he told Sowetan . "I can confirm
that there are a number of offers from several big clubs - three in the
English Premiership, two in Qatar and one in Turkey. "There are a number of
things I am still assessing, though, and I will decide sometime next week."

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Hammers just a stepping stone
By VIC HOLLY
Published: Today

PABLO BARRERA risked angering West Ham fans by telling his new club: You're
just my stepping stone. The Mexican winger is still awaiting a work permit
so he can complete his £4million move from Pumas UNAM. But Barrera, 23, who
has agreed a two-year deal with the Hammers, is already eyeing a move to one
of Europe's top teams if he produces the goods for West Ham. He said: "To
perform for West Ham and then move to a bigger team in Europe are my goals.
"I want to show what I'm made of and then succeed in Europe."
Barrera, who impressed Hammers boss Avram Grant while on World Cup duty with
Mexico, is aware his new club beat the drop by the skin of their teeth last
term. But he said: "My agent told me they are signing players to get better.
"For me, it's just cool to play football in Europe because it's a dream I
have had since before the World Cup." Grant added: "The deal is almost done
and we'll be happy to see him." Meanwhile, Grant is keen on Portsmouth
defender Tal Ben Haim but cannot afford his £38,000-a-week wages. Ben Haim,
who is also interesting Panathinaikos, was left out of Pompey's US tour so
that he could talk to the Hammers about a free transfer. But ex-Fratton Park
boss Grant has been told there can be no reunion unless fellow Israeli Ben
Haim lowers his wage demands. Pompey adminstrator Andrew Andronikou said:
"The problem is West Ham are not willing to pay what the player has been
earning here. There is a gap between the two."

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West Ham and Sunderland eye former Birmingham striker
Published 16:29 14/07/10 By James Nursey
The Mirror

A clutch of Premier League clubs are chasing Christian Benitez according to
Barry McIntosh who reckons Birmingham City will miss the striker. Ecuador
hitman Benitez, 24, spent last season on loan at top-flight Brum after
McIntosh helped broker his move from Mexican club Santos Laguna. Benitez's
skilful style was a big hit with fans but the forward only scored four
goals. He has since returned to South America after City declined to pay a
pre-arranged £6.5million to make the move permanent. But both West Ham and
Sunderland are interested in acquiring Benitez on another loan this season.
And McIntosh, who also helped take Argentine Mauro Zarate to City in 2008,
insists the striker would be a decent signing for any Premier League club.
McIntosh said: "I take great pleasure and satisfaction in being able once
again to introduce a player of the calibre of Christian Benitez to the
English Premier League. "I feel any Premier League club including Arsenal,
should have no qualms in going for Benitez. "Christian has brought to the
table other attributes other than goal-scoring. "I have watched Birmingham a
lot and I was significant in bringing Zarate to St Andrews. "What both
players had was the ability to buy time on the field for Birmingham City.
"When they came on the pitch you could see the fright in the opposition.
"What both players bring to the table is not necessarily goals but their
unpredictability which worries opposition teams and defenders play deeper
and bring more people back to counteract the threat. "Birmingham's dip in
form in March coincided with Benitez's omission from the team and if he had
stayed in the team I am pretty sure Birmingham would have qualified for the
Europa League at least."

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Hammers post narrow win
Published 23:01 14/07/10 By Pa Sports
The Mirror

West Ham began their pre-season with a 2-1 victory over npower League One
side Peterborough at London Road. Teenage midfielder Anthony Edgar scored
the winner after Carlton Cole's opener, set up by new signing Thomas
Hitzlsperger, had been cancelled out by Dave Hibbert. The 19-year-old Edgar,
who is the cousin of England striker Jermain Defoe, took his 65th-minute
goal well after picking up the ball 30 yards out and bursting through the
Posh defence before picking his spot.

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Portsmouth administrator Andrew Andronikou reveals West Ham United move for
defender Tal Ben Haim has floundered over wage demands
Cash-strapped Pompey desperate to cut back on the Israeli defender's
salary...
By Eliot Rothwell
14 Jul 2010 14:42:00
Goal.com

Portsmouth administrator Andrew Andronikou is seeking a way to remove Tal
Ben-Haim's salary from the club's wage bill. It is reported that the
defender declined the chance to activate a release clause in his contract,
with reported talks between Ben-Haim and West Ham United breaking down due
to the Israeli defender's £38,000-a-week wage demands. Speaking to The News,
Andronikou said: "Now we are speaking about Ben-Haim, and hopefully we can
tie that one up in the next day or two, "I have to say, Ben-Haim is one of
the highest-earning players. Potentially higher even than David James. "He
did not want to exercise his relegation release clause. As a club, we cannot
exercise it for him. The Portsmouth administrator confirmed the interest
from West Ham and an unnamed Greek team, but cited the fact that the wage
demands of the defender were pricing clubs out of any protracted deal. "West
Ham are interested and there is a Greek team. We are hoping to meet both to
try to get things going," he added. "The problem has been West Ham are not
willing to pay the player what he has been earning here and there is a gap
between the two. "Hopefully, something can be sorted very, very soon."

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You're just a stepping stone! West Ham new boy Pablo Barrera already eyeing
move to 'bigger' club
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 1:38 AM on 15th July 2010
Daily Mail

Pablo Barrera has risked angering West Ham fans by telling his new club:
you're just a stepping stone. The Mexican winger has not even completed his
£4m switch to Upton Park from Pumas UNAM as he is waiting to see if his work
permit application is successful. But the 23-year-old, who has agreed a
two-year deal with the Hammers, is already eyeing a move to one of Europe's
top clubs if he produces the goods for West Ham. Barrera said: 'To perform
for West Ham and then move to a bigger team in European football are my
goals. 'I want to show what I'm made of and succeed in Europe for many
years.' The Mexico international, who earned his move during the World Cup,
is aware of West Ham's poor form last season when they narrowly escaped
relegation, but says his agent has been told new manager Avram Grant will be
signing quality players. 'My agent told me they are signing players to get
better," Barrera added.
'For me, it's just really cool to play football in Europe because it is a
dream I have had since before the World Cup.'

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West Ham owners dash to France to clinch £12m deal for hot prospect Loic
Rémy
West Ham owners David Gold and David Sullivan have travelled to the south of
France in an attempt to push through a £12 million deal for the Nice striker
Loic Rémy.
Telegraph.co.uk
By Rory Smith
Published: 7:00AM BST 15 Jul 2010

The London club have already had one offer, of around £11.5 million,
rejected, but remain confident of clinching a deal with the Ligue One side
for the France international. The 23 year-old joined Nice from Lyon for £5
million two years ago and has since blossomed into one of the most exciting
attacking players in France, scoring 15 goals last season. He has been
linked with Arsenal, AC Milan and Fiorentina but admitted this week that
"when a club like West Ham is involved, it is always interesting".
Rémy would be West Ham's third signing of the summer, after German
midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger and Mexican international winger Pablo
Barrera, who will complete a £4 million move providing he is granted a work
permit at a hearing today. Gold and Sullivan, though, are likely to instruct
West Ham's new manager, Avram Grant, to trim his squad considerably to cut
the club's debt, estimated at £110 million when the duo took over in
January.Sullivan has said he is prepared to listen to offers for any players
bar midfielder Scott Parker.

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West Ham ready to offload Diamanti and Kovac but are determined to keep
Parker - Exclusive
Published 23:00 14/07/10 By James Nursey
The Mirror

West Ham are in talks with Olympiakos about selling Alessandro Diamanti and
Radoslav Kovac but are determined to keep Scott Parker. The Hammers, who are
£90million in debt, are looking to revamp their squad under new boss Avram
Grant. They are close to landing several transfer targets including Mexican
winger Pablo Barrera. But West Ham also want to move on several stars to
generate funds for new signings. And both Italian midfielder Diamanti, 27,
and Czech ace Kovac, 30, can go which has prompted an official approach from
the Greek club for the pair. Upton Park insiders continue to insist midfield
talisman and captain Parker is not for sale though. Parker, 29, has been
heavily linked with a move to Aston Villa to replace Man City-bound James
Milner. But Hammers officials are adamant there has been no approach from
Villa for Parker and would not welcome one either.

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Cole To Lead Hammers Attack
Posted on: Wed 14 Jul 2010
Theposh.com

Striker Carlton Cole will lead the West Ham United attack this evening in
the first pre-season friendly at London Road of the summer (7.45pm).
The Hammers will be sending a strong squad for the fixture with summer
signing Thomas Hitzlsperger making his debut for Avram Grant's men. Kieran
Dyer will also feature after a strong showing in pre-season training, while
Frenchman Julien Faubert is also included. James Tomkins, Benni McCarthy,
Mark Noble and Junior Stanislas will be involved as the Hammers provide
difficult opposition for Gary Johnson's men. Johnson will be without the
services of midfielder Lee Frecklington (knee), winger Nathan Koranteng
(arm) and defender Gabriel Zakuani (groin). The game is not all-ticket, so
fans will be able to pay on the turnstiles.

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Mokoena linked with Prem duo
Wednesday 14th July 2010 9:38
TeamTalk

Portsmouth midfielder Aaron Mokoena claims he has received offers three
Premier League clubs, which reportedly include West Ham and Bolton. The man
known as 'Mbazo' captained the South African national team at the 2010 World
Cup and his performances in the yellow and green seem to have attracted
suitors from the Premier League, Turkey and Qatar. Mokoena told The Sowetan
that although he feels a strong affinity towards Pompey, he could be tempted
to leave Fratton Park - with the South African newspaper claiming the
Hammers and Trotters are eager to land his services "I have to confess my
heart is still there at Portsmouth and they are offering me a new contract
if I remain with the club," he said. "I can confirm that there are a number
of offers from several big clubs - three in the English Premiership, two in
Qatar and one in Turkey."
The 29-year-old utility man, who can play in defence and in midfield, claims
he is still evaluating his options and said he will make a decision in the
near future.
"There are a number of things I am still assessing, though and I will decide
sometime next week," he said. Should Mokoena complete a switch to Upton
Park, he would reunite with his countryman Benni McCarthy, with whom he
played with at Ajax and Blackburn while West Ham's new manager, Avram Grant,
was in charge of Pompey last season.

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West Ham offer biggest on table for ex-Chelsea winger Cole
14.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United have made the biggest contract offer to released Chelsea
winger Joe Cole. The Daily Mail says clubs have been staggered by the price
Cole appears to have put on his own head. According to sources, the best
offer Cole has so far - close to six figures a week - comes from the club
where he started, West Ham.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 14th July 2010

Peterborough United match preview
WHUFC.com
All the essential background and team news ahead of Wednesday's pre-season
friendly
13.07.2010

Pre-season friendly
Peterborough United v West Ham United
London Road
Wednesday 14 July 2010
Kick-off: 7.45pm
Referee: Kevin Wright

Introduction

• West Ham United travel to League One new boys Peterborough United for
their first pre-season fixture ahead of the 2010/11 Barclays Premier League
season. The match will mark new manager Avram Grant's first game in charge
of the Hammers.

• Wednesday's friendly could also see Germany midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger
make his first appearance in a West Ham shirt following his summer arrival
from S.S. Lazio.

• The two teams have met on a number of occasions in pre-season friendly
matches in recent seasons. Jermain Defoe and Frederic Kanoute scored in a
2-0 win at London Road in July 2001. Three years later, Teddy Sheringham
made his debut in a 1-1 draw at the same venue, while Craig Bellamy scored
twice in a 2-0 win at Peterborough in July 2008.

Last meeting

• West Ham United scored a 2-1 home Division Two victory over Peterborough
United in the club's most recent competitive meeting at the Boleyn Ground on
9 February 1993.

• Peter Butler and Steve Jones put West Ham 2-0 up within 13 minutes and,
although Marcus Ebdon halved the deficit nine minutes before half-time,
Billy Bonds' Hammers held on to pick up all three points. Butler scored his
first goal for the Hammers in front of a 12,537-strong crowd.

The teams that day were -

West Ham United: Miklosko, Breacker, Dicks, Potts, Gale (Holmes), M.Allen,
Robson, Butler, Keen, Morley, Jones
Goals: Butler 4, Jones 13

Peterborough United: Bennett, Luke, Spearing, Halsall, Bradshaw, Welsh
(Howarth), Sterling, McGlashan, Curtis (Iorfa), Adcock, Philliskirk
Goal: Ebdon 36

Last time out

Sunday 9 May 2010
Barclays Premier League
West Ham United 1-1 Manchester City
West Ham United: Green, Faubert, Da Costa, Upson, Daprela, Parker, Boa Morte
(Stanislas 64), Kovac, Diamanti (Spence 87), Ilan, Cole (Franco 64)
Subs: Kurucz, Gabbidon, Spector, McCarthy
Goal: Boa Morte 17

Sunday 2 May 2010
Coca-Cola Championship
Plymouth Argyle 1-2 Peterborough United
Peterborough United: Lewis, Morgan, Little, Bennett, Andrew, Lee, Rowe,
Simpson, Mackail-Smith, Dickinson (Wright 64), Koranteng
Subs: Griffiths, McKeown, Green, Mills, McCrae, Piergianni
Goals: Mackail-Smith 63, 69

Old boys

• There could be a familiar face on show on Wednesday evening in the shape
of Academy graduate Grant McCann. The midfielder joined the Posh from
Scunthorpe United earlier this summer. McCann made four substitute
appearances for the Hammers between May and October 2001.

• Academy of Football graduate and former West Ham United full-back Noel
Cantwell was Peterborough manager on two occasions, taking charge at London
Road between 1972 and 1977 and 1986 and 1988.

• Other famous faces to have played for both clubs are Bobby Barnes, Matthew
Etherington, Bill Green, Steven Laurie, Dave Llewellyn, Adam Newton and Alf
Tirrell.

Grant McCann

Previous meetings

Head to head (League unless stated)

9 February 1993 - West Ham United 2-1 Peterborough United
12 September 1992 - Peterborough United 1-3 West Ham United

Overall record v Peterborough United (all competitions) W 2 D 0 L 0

West Ham United

• West Ham United will be seeking to make a positive start under new manager
Avram Grant, having ended last season in a disappointing 17th place in the
Barclays Premier League table.

• The Hammers will travel to Peterborough United unbeaten in two competitive
meetings with the Posh. Both Division Two fixtures played during the 1992/93
season ended in wins for West Ham.

• West Ham will travel to Germany for a pre-season training camp this
weekend. The camp which will include matches against German Bundesliga side
VfL Borussia Monchengladbach in Ruhpolding on Saturday 17 July and just
across the border in Austria in Kitzbuhel against Greek champions
Panathinaikos on Friday 23 July.

• Aside from new manager Grant, assistant manager Paul Groves and goalkeeper
coach David Coles will also be in the West Ham dugout for the first time at
Peterborough, having both followed the Israeli to the Boleyn Ground from
Portsmouth.

• Young professionals Matt Fry, Olly Lee and Anthony Edgar have all signed
new contracts with the club and will hope to impress the new manager this
season. Defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson will also be eager to push on after
spending the second half of last season on loan at Belgian side KSV
Roeselare.

• A number of players have departed from West Ham since the end of the
2009/10 season. Josh Payne, Bondz N'Gala, Ilan, Guille Franco, Davide
Ferrari, Danny Kearns, Terry Dixon and Tony Brookes have all departed after
their respective contracts expired, while Mido's short-term loan from
Middlesbrough was not renewed.

• Grant's side will kick-off their Premier League campaign with a trip to
Aston Villa on Saturday 14 August.

Thomas Hitzlsperger

Peterborough United

• Like West Ham United, Gary Johnson's Peterborough United will be seeking a
positive start to their pre-season schedule after a disappointing 2009/10
campaign that saw the Posh relegated from the Coca-Cola Championship after a
stay of just one season.

• Peterborough began their pre-season preparations with a friendly meeting
with Portuguese First Division side SC Olhanense at the Jose Arcanjo stadium
in Olhao on Saturday. The match ended in a 2-0 victory for the hosts.

• West Ham Academy graduate Grant McCann, who appeared in Tony Carr's
Testimonial match at the Boleyn Ground in May, joined Peterborough from
Scunthorpe United on a free transfer earlier this summer.

• Peterborough have brought in a number of other new players during the
summer. Twenty-year-old defender Seth Nana Ofori-Twumasi has signed from
Chelsea on a three-year contract. Forward Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, 18, has
joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan. Mark Little has
also moved to London Road from Wolves on a free transfer, while James
Wesolowski has joined from Leicester City for an undisclosed fee and
defender Kelvin Langmead has arrived on a three-year contract from
Shrewsbury Town.

• A number of players have left London Road during the summer. Defender
Craig Morgan has joined Championship side Preston North End, while
Argentinean midfielder Sergio Torres has moved to Crawley Town. Forward
Shaun Batt has moved to Championship new boys Millwall for an undisclosed
fee, while teenage striker Kwesi Appiah has departed the club by mutual
consent. Striker Scott Rendell, meanwhile, has joined Wycombe Wanderers,
while full-back Danny Andrew has linked up with Cheltenham Town.

• Winger George Boyd, who spent part of last season on loan at Championship
play-off hopefuls Nottingham Forest, has signed a new three-year contract
with the club this month.

• Peterborough will begin their quest to gain promotion from League One with
a home fixture against Bristol Rovers on Saturday 7 August.

Team news

• West Ham United will be without their four representatives at the 2010
FIFA World Cup - England's Robert Green and Matthew Upson, Switzerland's
Valon Behrami and the United States' Jonathan Spector - as well as Scott
Parker, who returned to training this week after spending the early part of
his summer with England's provisional World Cup squad.

• Germany midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger could make his West Ham debut
following his summer arrival from Italian club S.S. Lazio.

• Herita Ilunga and Kieron Dyer have returned to full pre-season training
following back and calf problems respectively and could both be involved at
London Road.

• Jack Collison and Young Hammer of the Year Zavon Hines will be unavailable
as both continue their recovery from long-term knee injuries.

• Frank Nouble will also be absent after joining up with the England squad
ahead of the UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals in France later this
month.

Training

General information

• Tickets for Wednesday's fixture are available from Peterborough United.
Seating is priced at £22 Adults, £14 Over-65s and Students and £8 for
Under-16s. Standing tickets in the Noyes End terrace are priced at £17
Adults, £14 Over-65s and Students and £8 for Under-16s. To order your
tickets, visit www.theposhtickets.com or call 0844 847 1934.

• The weather forecast is for sunny intervals with a top temperature of
around 23C.

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Goalkeepers tipped to shine
WHUFC.com
Goalkeeper coach David Coles believes Peter Kurucz and Marek Stech have
great potential
13.07.2010

Peter Kurucz and Marek Stech will have the perfect opportunity to impress
new West Ham United manager Avram Grant during Wednesday's opening
pre-season friendly at Peterborough United. With Robert Green given an
extended break following England's FIFA 2010 World Cup campaign, youngsters
Kurucz and Stech are expected to be given 45 minutes each at London Road.
Goalkeeper coach David Coles has spent the past ten days working closely
with the pair and said both Under-21 internationals look like fine
prospects. "I think the club has a good stock of goalkeepers," he told
WHUTV. "I spoke to Ludo Miklosko over the weekend and said what a credit
they are to him because he has got some good athletes and some really good
up-and-coming young goalkeepers. It's my job to help them along the way and
nurture them through. "I've been impressed with Peter and certainly with
Marek. They're very dynamic and they've responded to what we've done. We've
had quite a hard pre-season and an eye-opener into what I do as a
goalkeeping coach. It's a little bit different to what they're used to, but
they've responded really well. "This is a good opportunity for them. They're
going to share the game tomorrow night and play 45 minutes each and, when we
go away, they'll have the game against Borussia Monchengladbach before
Robert joins us on 18 July, which I'm really looking forward to. "I had a
nice call from Robert when I joined the club which was much appreciated and
I'm looking forward to striking up a rapport with him and helping him back
to where he should be."
A keen student of the art of goalkeeping, Coles has overseen the development
of a host of promising young stoppers during spells at Southampton and
Portsmouth. There, he was credited with helping the likes of Paul Smith,
Jamie Ashdown and Asmir Begovic become Premier League players. At the same
time, Coles earned a superb reputation for his work with internationals Paul
Jones, Antti Niemi and David James. "Over the period of time of my career, I
have done quite well with young goalkeepers. I do like going in with the
Academy kids and certainly like working with the younger ones. It's about
passing on my knowledge and learning at the same time."
Such is Coles' interest in goalkeeping that he had a book on the subject
published in 2003, highlighting the importance of working on both the mental
and physical facets of the game. "The major thing that I work, even in
training, is the psychological factors. I think there's so much that can be
done in training to enhance the performance in the game. We do a lot of
imagery work and focusing and concentration work, as well as the technical,
tactical and physical side of the game. "We make a save or come and deal
with a cross or distribute the ball but the game is not over. There is still
organisation of the back four and your position in relation to where the
ball is, so staying in the game is becoming more poignant because of the
concentration factor. "In one split-second the ball can be back up your end
and you can be dealing with a cross and organising again."

*Academy goalkeeper Deniz Mehmet has pulled out of the Turkey Under-18 squad
for a friendly double-header in Estonia this week to concentrate on his
pre-season training. The decision was made with the full consent of the
Turkish Football Federation.

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Russian link dismissed
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 13th July 2010
By: Staff Writer

A story linking a Russian billionaire with a major investment into West Ham
United has been dismissed as pure speculation. Neil Ashton, writing in the
News of the World at the weekend claimed that Russian-American businessman
Leonid 'Len' Blavatnik was 'poised to make a £30million offer to buy into
West Ham' - adding that Blavatnik was being 'encouraged to make a bid for a
one-third share of the Hammers'. However KUMB.com have learned that neither
Blavatnik nor his representatives have made any contact with West Ham at
this stage, with the club's owners - who continue to seek additional
investors - understood to be of the opinion that there is no truth in the
story. Meanwhile another party who had previously expressed interest in
purchasing West Ham United FC revealed the reasons why he pulled out of the
running. Tony Fernandes, the Malaysian businessman and CEO of AirAsia
admitted that he withdrew from the January race to buy the club due to
Straumur's insistence that they retain 50% of the club. The 46-year-old
entrepreneur maintained in an interview with TalkSport that he was
interested in a complete buy-out only. David Sullivan and David Gold
purchased 50% of West Ham from the Icelandic owners, CB Holdings, in
mid-January. The pair recently purchased a further 10% of the club, giving
them a majority share.

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Sidwell to Ful in the blanksBy GRAHAM HILL
Published: Today
The Sun

ASTON VILLA midfielder Steve Sidwell will decide whether to join Fulham or
West Ham by the weekend. Managerless Fulham are leading the chase but the
former Chelsea player wants to see who gets the job at Craven Cottage. West
Ham are waiting in the wings and their boss Avram Grant managed Sidwell at
Stamford Bridge. Wigan have also shown an interest in the 27-year-old, who
is one of six players told they can leave Villa Park. Ex-England Under-21
skipper Nigel Reo-Coker is up for sale at £4million.

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Mexican may shun Celtic
Juarez would rather move to England or Spain
By Patricio Figueroa Last updated: 13th July 2010
SSN

Mexican star Efrain Juarez has not agreed a deal with Celtic as he is
hopeful of sealing a move to England or Spain. Scottish sources had
suggested that the full-back, who can also play in midfield, was on the
brink of sealing a move to Celtic. His agent Jorge Berlanga admits the
interest from Scotland, but suggested he was more inclined to wait for a
move to England or Spain. "I will be starting negotiations during this week
for Efrain to play in Europe," Berlanga confirmed.
"What I can say for the moment is that he has not accepted any offers to
play in Scotland because he prefers other leagues like the Spanish and
English. "I cannot say the names in Spain and England, but what I can say is
that he will not be continuing with Pumas."
The 22-year-old impressed at the World Cup finals and now he is hoping that
will result in a move. "The club and my agent are in talks," said Juarez,
who has also been linked with West Ham. "There are approaches, but I cannot
talk because it does not come to me but to my club and my agent. "If I
leave, then obviously this will be a dream come true."

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West Ham target Efrain Juarez wants to play in England or Spain after
turning down Celtic
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 4:58 PM on 13th July 2010
Daily Mail

Mexican star Efrain Juarez has snubbed a move to Celtic as he wants to play
in Europe. The full-back was reported to be on the brink of joining the
Scottish Premier League club but his agent Jorge Berlanga insists he wants
to play in England or Spain. Juarez, who plays for Mexican outfit UNAM
Pumas, has been linked with West Ham but Berlanga refused to confirm or deny
reports. 'I will be starting negotiations during this week for Efrain to
play in Europe,' Berlanga confirmed. 'What I can say for the moment is that
he has not accepted any offers to play in Scotland because he prefers other
leagues like the Spanish and English. 'I cannot say the names in Spain and
England, but what I can say is that he will not be continuing with Pumas.'
Juarez, 22, went further by revealing his agent was in talks with one club
but refused to say it was West Ham. He said: 'The club and my agent are in
talks. There are approaches, but I cannot talk because it does not come to
me but to my club and my agent. If I leave, then obviously this will be a
dream come true.'

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West Ham striker Nouble: Loans were good for me
14.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United striker Frank Nouble says he's a better player for his loan
spells away last season. Former Chelsea forward Nouble hopes to enjoy more
starts with West Ham under new manager Avram Grant this term. He told
whufc.com: "The loan experience last year was good. I went to West Brom
first, which was good, and then at Swindon we lost in the play-off final,
which was a bitter blow, but I think I'm better for those experiences now.
I've come back a bit stronger and am raring to go."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham and England - A Way Forward?
Billy Blagg - Fri Jul 9 2010

It p*sses other clubs supporters off enormously, of course, but West Ham
fans have always claimed more than a bit of credit for England's solitary
World Cup victory in 1966.

To be fair, even we realise it does appear a bit of nonsense at times, but
then us fans don't often get much opportunity to crow about anything any
more so I think its fair game to don a pair of rose-tinted ones every now
and then and pretend Bobby Charlton, Ball, Banks and the others were merely
bit players.

Now, everybody knows of course, that apart from providing the Captain and
the best defender that England has ever produced, the final's hat-trick hero
Geoff Hurst and the fourth goal-scorer Martin Peters also plied their trade
on the training ground at Chadwell Heath. Any statistical analysis would
reveal that. What isn't made clear from the history books though is how the
tactics employed by West Ham under Ron Greenwood at that time also helped in
the make-up of the World Cup winning side.

Moore's quick free-kick that led to England's second goal in the final,
Martin Peters' ability to ghost in from midfield to become an extra forward
and, more importantly, the long pass forward from defence that found Geoff
Hurst for England's fourth were all torn from the pages of West Ham's
coaching manual.

In fact, if you look at what happened at Wembley in '66, you'll see a trend
started just a few years earlier when Greenwood moved from North to East
London and started a revolution that culminated in West Ham's Cup Winners
Cup victory at Wembley in 1965.

Alf Ramsey's new ideas on overlapping full-backs and breaking midfield
players all had their association with Greenwood's. In fact, one of the
great fallacies about Ramsey's 'wingless wonders' is just that; Alf tried
several wingers in the group games leading up to the quarter-final against
Argentina and it was only the fear that the South Americans would dominate
his midfield that made Ramsey switch his tactics. Once England had claimed
victory with Hurst's solitary goal, it was easy for Ramsey to keep the same
line-up for the following matches. The rest, as they say…

Even many current West Ham fans don't realise it, but the Hammers were a
glamour outfit at that time and there would be few players at the '66 World
Cup who wouldn't be aware of the profile of one of England's foremost club
sides.

Now, it's true that by the time of the next World Cup, West Ham's heyday had
not only well and truly passed but some of Greenwood's passing football had
been outdone by a form of the game that was an anathema to the purist ideas
of the manager. It's also fair to say that the dreams of winning the English
league with a side playing joyous passing football had hit a brick wall and
would never recover. However, West Ham's association with producing young
players and developing them to play the 'right way' is something that never
lost its association with this unfashionable corner of London.

Tony Carr has been Director of Youth Development at West Ham since 1973 and
'The Academy' over which he presides has produced many fine players for West
Ham and England over the years. Most recently current England squad players
like Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Glen Johnson, Joe Cole
and even, to a certain extent, Jermaine Defoe have come under Carr's guiding
hands and, although the club never reaps the full benefit of their
investments – on the pitch at least – it is a fact that many players find
their way to Chadwell Heath because they know they will get their
opportunity in the first team if they are good enough.

It is a tradition long associated with a club that has produced some of the
best young players seen in England since '66 and, bearing in mind the
current state of the Premiership, English football and the national side
itself I think it's something that West Ham should be seriously looking at
exploiting further.

Like them or not, new owners Messrs Gold and Sullivan are talking the talk
on West Ham's virtues. There is no doubt they are steeped in the history of
the club, its association with the 1966 'Holy Trinity', the Academy and the
wealth of talent that has found its way out of Upton Park to the benefit of
some of the biggest sides in Europe. It would be a big step to back up that
talk with some action but, in many ways, what is there to lose?

Trevor Brooking has been bemoaning the lack of opportunities for young
players at clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea and I think it's something the
Hammers should be exploiting. Even the most dyed-in-the-wool claret and blue
supporter doesn't expect West Ham to be worrying the Champions League any
time soon and some of us aren't even particularly bothered about it, we just
want to see entertaining football with occasionally – just occasionally mind
we don't want to get too excited – the opportunity of a bit of cup success
somewhere.

So why don't we take the opportunity to shake up the current squad and also,
perhaps, give ourselves the opportunity to congratulate ourselves again some
time in the future when another England captain gets to emulate a feat last
seen 44 years ago? After all, it's not as if West Ham's recent transfer
policy has seen us rampaging through Europe – for the most part the only
areas of Europe that have been keen to see us are spots like Burnley, Hull,
Stoke and Wigan!

Here's my plan: West Ham should try and tempt some of the up and coming
players who look like they have what it takes to go all the way. I don't
suppose Arsenal will initially agree to sell Keiron Gibbs for example but
how long does the left-back intend to sit behind the long queue of French
defenders in front of him? I don't pretend to have in–depth knowledge of
every young prospect in the country and I'm sure players like Rodwell at
Everton and Wellbeck at Manchester United are probably happy enough where
they are and have decent prospects of breaking into the first team but its
clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea that West Ham should be targeting as well as
keeping an eye out at clubs like Norwich and Crystal Palace where, in my
opinion, they missed out on not going for young winger Victor Moses who
would have fitted in well at Upton Park.

Not a youth product by any means but Carlton Cole is another player who was
long touted as a prospect but who wasn't given opportunities at other clubs.
It could be argued, had it not been for injury, then Cole could have been
the option for the misfiring Heskey.

The argument against developing young talent is that no clubs want to risk a
player that may cost them a couple of league places and the associated
payments made by the Premier League. But I'd argue that doesn't apply at
West Ham where, provided we're not relegated, most are not bothered if we
finish tenth or thirteenth providing the football is good and we've got good
prospects to cheer.

It may sound revolutionary but I honestly think that West Ham fans would
welcome bringing through some exciting England prospects and give themselves
at least a shot at some future glory than pay £16m for a Mexican or
Brazilian import who may be traumatised by homesickness and end up being
sold on eight months later. In any case, how many fans want to provide a 12
month home to the next Pele and become a feeder club for Chelsea? I can
think of nothing worse.

The great thing about West Ham is that we don't have to do too much to start
this revolution. Everybody knows about the Academy and admires what it does
and players like Carrick and Defoe have long admitted they came to West Ham
because they knew their chances of breaking into the first team were better.
Interesting to note that even as I was writing this news broke that
highly-rated youngster Dan Gosling has quit Everton and is looking for a
move to Upton Park. His reason? He wants first-team football!

Nothing changes within The Academy itself, of course. We continue to develop
as we have but just make it a policy to supplement from elsewhere; just
asking at first, offering a good fee here or there and then keep coming back
as the young England prospects find themselves strangled out at their own
clubs by another French or Italian import who has found their way in front
of them on the team sheet. Chase every good English player who we think can
make the grade – we've done it successfully for the past three decades so
what's so different? – and try and resurrect the traditions of a club built
on doing things the right way.

My dream is somewhere down the line another Moore is unearthed in the back
streets of Barking but there's no reason why he can't be found in the
reserves or youth sides of some of the lumbering giants of our Champions
League sides and given an opportunity they're not going to get if they stay
where they are.

Of course, if they make it at West Ham then those same sides that ignored
them at first will be back in and common-sense says they will move on for a
fat fee and the promise of playing Barcelona every Wednesday fortnight. But
what have West Ham to lose? There's just a chance we may build up a good
young side of English players, sprinkled with a few imports that actually
win us something sometime, but if they don't it will still be good for
English football and, by definition, the West Ham name and tradition.

Obviously it would never be the same as '66 but I'd have been as pleased as
punch if a fit Rio Ferdinand had lifted the World Cup this summer flanked by
Cole, Lampard and Johnson. Time will probably show that this 'Golden
Generation' lacked the substance to go all the way but that doesn't mean we
shouldn't try and provide the next one.

We've had a few scrapped blueprints recently at Upton Park but I think this
is one that would work to everyone's benefit and it's surely better than
chasing the CL pipe-dream. It'll cheer Sir Trevor no end too!

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Sunderland and West Ham face Asamoah Gyan fight as Fenerbahce make £10m bid
for Rennes' World Cup star
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 2:21 PM on 13th July 2010
The Daily Mail

Fenerbahce have tried to blow Sunderland and West Ham United out of the
water by submitting a £10million bid for Rennes striker Asamoah Gyan. The
Ghana striker impressed at the World Cup and was on the 10-man short list
for the player of the tournament award eventually won by Uruguay's Diego
Forlan. Gyan, 24, is most keen to move to the Barclays Premier League and a
move for about £7m had been expected. However, Rennes are trying to cash in
on the interest and are understood to have responded to Fenerbahce's offer
by pushing the asking price to almost £17m.
The Hammers have already stalled their pursuit while they look at Nice
striker Loic Remy and Santos wonderkid Neymar, while the new price-tag is
likely to be beyond Sunderland. The Wearsiders have been linked with a
renewed move for Paraguay striker Nelson Valdez after it emerged that he had
a £4.2m release clause in his Borussia Dortmund contract. Valdez said: 'I
have received a lucrative offer from Holland, but there is also interest
from Russia, Portugal and England. My agent is weighing up the options.'

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nice striker Remy rejects Lyon for West Ham move
13.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

Nice striker Loic Remy wants a move to West Ham United. West Ham now look
likely to have won the race for Remy, with co-owner David Sullivan
reportedly in France thrashing out the final details. Remy is one of
France's hottest talents and the 23-year-old scored 15 goals in 33
appearances last season. The France international has also been linked with
a move back to Lyon, where he spent seven years in their youth team and
three in the senior side, but Remy now admits "that is no longer my main
aim".

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West Ham sweat on Barrera work permit
13.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United are sweating on a successful work permit application for
Pablo Barrera. Barrera will sign for West Ham later this week if his work
permit application is successful. The 23-year-old has agreed a £4million,
two-year deal to join the Hammers from Mexican club Pumas UNAM.

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West Ham signing Hitzlsperger: Wonderful to be back in England
13.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

Former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has again admitted how
happy he is with his move to West Ham United. Hitzlsperger spent five years
at Villa Park earlier in his career, and cannot wait to get back into
Premier League action. "I am just excited to be back. My time here in the
Premier League was great for me," said the 28-year-old German international,
who missed out on the World Cup finals. "I have been abroad for five years
now and coming back it is just wonderful. I have so many good memories."
Hitzlsperger added on whufc.com: "Playing for a big club like West Ham is
great for me and I just want to be successful. "I have come here, the club
had a difficult last season last year and we want to finish higher up the
table. "I am looking forward to it so much and I am just glad to be here."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Grant: McCarthy needs to help himself
13.07.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United boss Avram Grant says he is counting on Benni McCarthy for
the new season. Grant insists West Ham will do all they can to get McCarthy
into peak physical shape. He told whufc.com: "We have Benni McCarthy in our
squad. He is a good player. We are helping him but he needs to help himself
to be better. "So far from what I have seen in training, he is doing well. "

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 13th July 2010

Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
The pre-season friendlies start this week and there is no reason why the Hammers cannot aim high
12.07.2010

Avram Grant has spoken of his determination to lay the foundations for future success at West Ham United and to ensure the fans are proud of the players.
Reflecting on his appointment as the Hammers manager, Grant said he would love to guide the club into Europe - but in good time. He said such rewards would come naturally by aiming to improve year on year. "Our target will be to progress so it will always be better and you can do that for a long time. I don't believe in success for one year. We need to build something. "Even the facilities will help us to do better. We have a good Academy base. If we build a squad like I think we can, every year will be better. We won't say our target is seventh place or eighth place, if you do things right, of course you will progress."I am sure that West Ham will be a good club first to play for and second to watch. Of course there will be good days and not good days but I am sure that if we do things right, and we are starting to do it now, we can speak about very good things. "First we need to do it and then we can speak about it."
The managed confirmed that the club were busy with trying to strengthen the first-team squad but was naturally keeping his cards close to his chest. "We are in the middle of negotiations. We are looking to improve the areas we need to improve." Forward positions are perhaps a priority with Carlton Cole and Benni McCarthy supported by three young forwards in Zavon Hines, Freddie Sears and Frank Nouble - who will miss the tour of Germany next Friday because of England Under-19 duty. McCarthy, though, is getting closer to fitness after last season's injury problems. "We have Benni McCarthy in our squad. He is a good player. We are helping him but he needs to help himself to be better. So far from what I have seen in training, he is doing well. "
Grant was also confident the supporters can play their part in a big season. "The fans here are great. I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters. They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. We will do everything to give them that. "I was a supporter so I know what it is to be a supporter. What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way that the players show to the fans that they gave everything. I am sure if they see that the players give everything, then they will show a good spirit. They will support them even if we lose games."
He also paid tribute to the support he has had from the owners. "They are very passionate about the football. I only see positive things. They are ready to do everything for the club. The club is not in a good situation because they took a club with a lot of debt."
Returning to the issue of expectations for the season ahead, the manager reiterated the goal was to ensure the team had a solid campaign first and foremost before moving to other ambitions. "The owners said to me the first year target is not to fight against relegation and from this we can build for the future. It is also my target."

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Nouble's international goal
WHUFC.com
Frank Nouble has joined up with England ahead of the UEFA European U19 Championship
13.07.2010

Frank Nouble is planning to do his country proud when he represents England at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in France. The West Ham United forward will hope to lead the line when the Young Lions tackle Austria, Netherlands and the host nation in Group A, starting this weekend. Should Nouble help England to lift the trophy for a record-breaking tenth time, the powerful 18-year-old will emulate the achievement of first-year scholar Rob Hall, who was part of the UEFA European U17 Championship-winning squad in May. The Lewisham-born player is confident of success, with England to face one of Croatia, Spain, Italy or Portugal in the semi-finals providing they can negotiate the group stage. "I don't know much about Austria but we've got some videos of them to watch when we join up with the group," Nouble told WHUTV. "We've played France the last two years in age-group with England. We've always beaten them but they've always been a good team, so we can't take them lightly. We played Holland [in a friendly in Waalwijk] earlier this year and drew with them 1-1. "Every team which is going is a strong team so we've got to focus and hopefully go through the group stage and get to the semi-final. "The 17s did well and Rob did well too, so if we can emulate what they did that would be good."
England begin their challenge by facing Austria at the Stade du Haze in Flers on Sunday 18 July, before tacking Netherlands in Bayeux on Wednesday 21 July and completing their Group A commitments by meeting France in Saint-Lo on Saturday 24 July. The tournament will be screened live by British Eurosport.

Prior to joining up with England, Nouble enjoyed a week of pre-season training at Chadwell Heath. The double sessions allowed the teenager to join his West Ham squad-mates on the training pitch for the first time since he left for a loan spell at League One play-off runners-up Swindon Town in mid-March. "We have had a few double sessions. The body is feeling all right, it's just been a case of dealing with the [hot] weather really. Everyone has been enjoying training and hopefully pre-season will keep going that way. "I think everyone should have an open mind. The manager has already said in his press conference that everyone should be eager to go and I think everyone is showing that at the moment. Everyone is training with a smile on their face and is trying to make a point. "The loan experience last year was good. I went to West Brom first, which was good, and then at Swindon we lost in the play-off final, which was a bitter blow, but I think I'm better for those experiences now. I've come back a bit stronger and am raring to go."

While Nouble will miss the Hammers' pre-season tour to Germany, the striker is eager to catch the eye of new manager Avram Grant on his return. "As long as I'm in and around it like I did last year, then hopefully I'll get a few more starts and have an impact for the team, things will go all right. This year could be a good year for me. I'm just going to knuckle down and keep working with the staff that are in place now and hopefully I'll get an opportunity."

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Junior up for Posh date
WHUFC.com
After the hard work of the first days of pre-season, things move forward with Wednesday's friendly
12.07.2010

Junior Stanislas is raring to go for the trip to Peterborough United this Wednesday night after an intense few days of pre-season training. The 20-year-old winger has played for the Hammers at London Road before, getting eight minutes off the bench two summers ago in the 2-0 friendly win against the Posh on 29 July 2008. This time around, Stanislas is an established member of the first-team squad but also knows he has to prove himself to new manager Avram Grant.
"It is nice to look forward to a game and match situations. It will be good to play again," he told WHUTV. "Training has been difficult but they are easing us into it gradually. It has not been too bad. We were off for a while, six or seven weeks I think it was, so it is good to be back on the pitch and start training again.
"I just want to play and get as much experience as I can under my belt. I'd like to score a few more goals, set up a few more goals and do my bit for the team. The new manager has been watching us a lot in training and getting a feel for what we like."

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Hitz keen on new kit
WHUFC.com
There are just ten days to go until fans can get the away kit but you can pre-order now
12.07.2010

Thomas Hitzlsperger may be familiar with claret and blue already, but that did not stop him relishing the chance to try on his new West Ham United kit. The summer signing, who spent five years at Aston Villa earlier in his career, donned the club's new 2010/11 Macron away kit this week for a special launch photo-shoot and was full of praise. "It is exciting when you get to see the new kit although for me it is nothing new. It is claret and blue. I am used to it! "It is good for the fans to get to see it. We are only five weeks away from the start of the season. We are all excited and it is the next step towards the new season with the presentation of the new kit."
Der Hammer, as the Germany midfielder has been dubbed because of his powerful left foot, spent four-and-a-half seasons with VfB Stuttgart in his homeland ahead of a six-month stay with S.S. Lazio in Italy. He is delighted to be back in England and relishing the start of the new season. "I am just excited to be back. My time here in the Premier League was great for me. I have been abroad for five years now and coming back it is just wonderful. I have so many good memories. "Playing for a big club like West Ham is great for me and I just want to be successful. I have come here, the club had a difficult last season last year and we want to finish higher up the table. I am looking forward to it so much and I am just glad to be here."

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U18s off to the seaside
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's U18s will take part in the two-day Southend United Youth Tournament
12.07.2010

West Ham United Under-18s will kick-off their pre-season schedule by making the short trip down the A127 for the Southend United Youth Tournament this weekend. The four-team competition, which will take place at Roots Hall on Saturday 24 July and Sunday 25 July 2010, will also feature hosts Southend, Arsenal and Dutch champions FC Twente. Tony Carr's Hammers will contest the tournament's first match by taking on Arsenal at 11.30am on Saturday 24 July, with Southend taking on FC Twente at 3pm. The third-place play-off will kick-off at 11.30am on Sunday 25 July, with the final scheduled to get under way at 3.30pm.
The tournament will give West Ham supporters their first opportunity to watch the club's new intake of first-year scholars in action for the U18s. England U17 forward Robert Hall, who helped his country to UEFA European U17 Championship glory earlier this summer, could be one of the star attractions, while former England U16 midfielders Blair Turgott and Matthias Fanimo will also be out to impress. Arsenal's U18 side have a fantastic recent record, winning the FA Premier Academy League Group A championship last season before defeating Nottingham Forest 5-3 to retain the overall Premier Academy League title. Southend, who also have a good pedigree for producing young players, ended the 2009/10 campaign by finishing fifth in the Youth Alliance South East Division table.
Twente, meanwhile, finished seventh in the Dutch youth league last season. Tickets are priced at £15 for adults and £8 for concessions for both days and £10 for adults, £5 for concessions and £1 for children for a single day. Tickets for are on sale now from the Blues Box Office by calling 08444 77 00 77.

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Man jailed for stabbing footballer Calum Davenport
Page last updated at 16:01 GMT, Monday, 12 July 2010 17:01 UK
BBC.co.uk

Worrell Whitehurst threatened to end Calum Davenport's career A man has been jailed for six years for a knife attack on a Premier League footballer at his mother's home in Bedfordshire. Worrell Whitehurst, from Derby, stabbed former West Ham player Calum Davenport repeatedly in the legs in Bedford last August, Luton Crown Court heard. The 27-year-old had admitted causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Whitehurst also admitted a charge of unlawfully wounding Mr Davenport's mother, Kim Stupple. The court heard Whitehurst attacked the 27-year-old player on 22 August after Mr Davenport insulted him during an argument with his sister Cara Davenport, Whitehurst's girlfriend. Earlier this month Mr Davenport was cleared of head-butting his sister during the argument in which he allegedly called her a "form of cancer". It was claimed he had attacked his 28-year-old sister, who was pregnant at the time, after hearing that she was carrying her second child. Mr Davenport was acquitted of one charge of actual bodily harm at Luton Crown Court. On Monday Judge Michael Kay said the behaviour of both Mr Davenport and his father Curtis Davenport, who was also involved in the argument, was "deplorable".
Calum Davenport was stabbed about eight times in the legs He said: "Yet again, sadly, a footballer is involved in activity which shows that he does not begin to understand that his privileged life ought to be accompanied by some appreciation of the fact that he is a role model for young people and ought to behave appropriately."
When Whitehurst returned home and saw a mark on his girlfriend's face, he armed himself with a kitchen knife, saying: "I'm going to make sure he (Mr Davenport) doesn't play football again." Prosecutor Natalie Carter said Whitehurst attacked the footballer, injuring his mother in the process. She told the court Mr Davenport was stabbed about eight times in the legs. He lost half of the blood in his body and spent two days in intensive care, followed by a further month in hospital. The court heard he had recovered now and was back in training. Mr Davenport's contract with West Ham was terminated in March.

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Remy dreaming of England
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 12th July 2010
By: Staff Writer

French striker Loic Remy has admitted that the lure of playing in the Premier League would be too big to refuse. KUMB.com revealed yesterday how West Ham and Remy's current club, Nice, were close to agreeing a package that would take the once-capped international to east London. The 23-year-old striker is the subject of a €13.5million (approximately £11.5million) bid from West Ham, with only payment terms holding back a successful conclusion to negotiations. Speaking about the talks this morning, Remy told French daily L'Equipe: "I've always dreamed of playing in England. When a club like West Ham is in the running, it is always interesting. But nothing is done. "The clubs must reach an agreement and Nice [will receive] a lot of money. Without giving an ultimatum, I hope it will be resolved quickly."

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Remy keen on Hammers move
Nice ready to sell striker for the right price
By Patrick Haond Last updated: 12th July 2010
SSN

Loic Remy has confirmed he would be interested in joining West Ham United with Nice prepared to sell for the right price. Skysports.com revealed earlier this month that the Hammers had increased their bid for Remy to €13.5million (£11.1million) as new manager Avram Grant seeks to improve his squad. The France international striker has also been linked with Bordeaux and Lyon, although his asking price could prevent a move within Ligue 1. Remy is keen to have a swift resolution to his future and is excited by the prospect of moving to the Premier League with West Ham. "I like Bordeaux, there are perfect facilities to work there," Remy told L'Equipe. "Lyon? It is always attractive to go back to the club where you have been educated, but it is not my first objective. "West Ham will not play in any European competition this term, but Nice and Bordeaux won't play in any either. "I have always liked the Premier League and I have always dreamed of playing in England. "When a club like West Ham is tempted, it is always exciting. But nothing is done, the clubs have to find an agreement and Nice asks for a lot of money. "Without setting any ultimatums, I would like to know my future quite soon."
Nice coach Eric Roy has accepted Remy's likely departure over the summer providing the club's valuation is met. Roy said: "I absolutely rely on him, but we have resigned ourselves. "We had a verbal agreement, which was that he would spend two seasons at Nice having four years on his contract. "So now if an offer comes and matches what the club expects, indeed he will leave."

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Grant - Passion is key
Hammers boss wants players to show determination
By Razwan Mirza Last updated: 12th July 2010
SSN

West Ham manager Avram Grant has called on his squad to show the Upton Park faithful how much it means to wear the club shirt. The former Portsmouth boss wants the Hammers to follow the example of his previous club by showing the same 'passion as the fans'. Grant is preparing the squad ahead of the new Premier League season and is hoping to improve on last term's displays under Gianfranco Zola, who was dismissed by incoming co-owners David Sullivan and David Gold. The East London side recruited Grant in the summer and gave the former Chelsea boss their full backing after the Israeli guided Pompey to the FA Cup final despite their well reported off-field problems. Now, the new Hammers manager wants his players to show the same determination as relegated Pompey did. He said: "The fans here are great. "I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters. "They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. We will do everything to give them that. "What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way that the players show to the fans that they gave everything. "I am sure if they see that the players give everything, then they will show a good spirit, the fans will support them even if we lose games."

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Avram calls for passion
Published: 12 Jul 2010
The Sun

AVRAM GRANT wants his West Ham players to follow the example set by Portsmouth and show the Hammers faithful just how much it means to pull on the shirt. The former Pompey boss has been handed the task of resurrecting the fortunes of the east London club, who last season flirted with relegation and financial meltdown before the successful takeover by David Sullivan and David Gold. Now, the new Hammers manager wants his players to show the same determination his old side produced when they took to the pitch. Grant said: "The fans here are great. I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters. "They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. We will do everything to give them that. "What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way the players show to the fans that they gave everything. "I am sure if they see tthe players give everything, then they will show a good spirit, the fans will support them even if we lose games."
Grant has brought in former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger on a free transfer and is said to be keen on bringing ex-Pompey striker Frederic Piquionne to Upton Park. West Brom have dismissed 'unwelcome' bids for Scotland midfielder Graham Dorrans and reports suggest veteran Sol Campbell could be offered a short-term deal at Upton Park.

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Hammers make £12m Remy bid
By MARK IRWIN
Published: Today
The Sun

WEST HAM have made a club record £12million bid for Nice striker Loic Remy. Remy, who bagged 14 league goals last term, is keen to move to Upton Park and has snubbed Lyon and Bordeaux. He said: "I have always loved the Premier League and always dreamed of playing in England." Nice want £13m - with £8m of it up front. The Hammers are hoping to pay the fee over four years for the 23-year-old. West Brom are trying to hijack West Ham's move for Lyon hitman Frederic Piquionne.

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Grant calls for passion
Published 15:41 12/07/10 By Pa Sports
The Mirror

Avram Grant wants his West Ham players to follow the example set by Portsmouth last season and show the Upton Park faithful just how much it means to pull on the shirt. The Israeli has been handed the task of resurrecting the fortunes of the east London club, who last season flirted with relegation and financial meltdown before the successful takeover by David Sullivan and David Gold. "The fans here are great," declared Grant. "I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters. They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. We will do everything to give them that."
Grant - dismissed by Chelsea after leading them to within a penalty kick of winning the Champions League - saw his stock rise when guiding Pompey to the FA Cup final despite all the off-field problems of administration, a nine-point penalty and relegation from the Barclays Premier League. The Irons owners have given Grant their full backing, having not seen eye to eye with predecessor Gianfranco Zola. Now, the new Hammers boss wants his players to show the same determination Pompey produced when they took to the pitch. He added: "What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way that the players show to the fans that they gave everything. "I am sure if they see that the players give everything, then they will show a good spirit, the fans will support them even if we lose games."
Grant, 55, has brought in former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger on a free transfer, with a £10million deal for Nice striker Loic Remy reported to be close to completion. Remy told L'Equipe. "I have always dreamed of playing in England. When a club like West Ham is on the cards, it is always interesting, but nothing has been done. The clubs need to find an agreement and Nice are asking for a lot of money."

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Remy: I want West Ham move
Published 23:00 12/07/10 By Darren Lewis
The Mirror

Avram Grant is closing in on a £12million swoop got Nice striker Loic Remy after the marksman admitted he is up for the move. Mirror Sport revealed yesterday that the Hammers had gone in for the 23-year-old front man with French clubs Nice and Bordeaux also keen. But highly-rated Remy said last night: "West Ham will not play in any European competition this term, but Nice and Bordeaux won't play in any either. "I have always liked the Premier League and I have always dreamed of playing in England. "When a club like West Ham is tempted, it is always exciting. But nothing is done, the clubs have to find an agreement and Nice asks for a lot of money. "Without setting any ultimatums, I would like to know my future quite soon. Nice coach Eric Roy has also admitted his star striker will be off if the club get an offer they can't refuse. Roy said: "I absolutely rely on him, but we have resigned ourselves. "We had a verbal agreement, which was that he would spend two seasons at Nice having four years on his contract. "So now if an offer comes and matches what the club expects, indeed he will leave."

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World Cup star jets in to sign for West Ham
Published 23:00 12/07/10 By James Nursey
The Mirror

Mexican winger Pablo Barrera arrives in London today to complete a £4million switch from Pumas. Barrera, 23, is expected to sign a two-year contract at Upton Park, with the option of a third, subject to gaining a work permit. Barrera, who can play on either flank, said: "I'm starting to get very anxious about travelling to England so I can join my new team, know my team-mates, the stadium, the city - everything."

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Grant asks Hammers to be just like Fratton
13 July 2010
By Steve Wilson
Portsmouth.co.uk

Avram Grant has called on West Ham fans to recreate the passion of Pompey. The new Hammers boss, who quit the Fratton Park hot seat in May after the FA Cup final defeat, insists his new club's supporters should follow the lead of the Pompey fans. Grant built up an excellent rapport with Blues supporters after sticking by the club throughout the financial meltdown. He consistently called the Fratton faithful the finest fans in football. And the Israeli believes it is down to the players to show their spirit to the supporters, to build a similar bond at Upton Park. Grant said: 'What happened in Portsmouth needs to be at West Ham in the way that the players show to the fans that they gave everything. 'I am sure if they see that the players give everything, then they will show a good spirit, the fans will support them even if we lose games.' Grant faces a difficult challenge to improve West Ham this season after they flirted with relegation under Gianfranco Zola last term. But, he believes he has the right backing to turn things around. He said: 'The fans here are great. I was here before for games and the thing I liked was the supporters. 'They are very passionate about the club and they deserve to see a good team. 'We will do everything to give them that.'
Grant has been linked with several Pompey players since taking charge at West Ham, including Prince Boateng, Marc Wilson and David James, but was tight-lipped on whether he would be making a raid on his former club. Grant said: 'We are in the middle of negotiations. We are looking to improve the areas we need to improve.

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Hope for West Ham as Santos deny giving Barcelona priority on Neymar
July 13, 2010
IMScouting.com

Brazilian club Santos has denied granting priority to Barcelona to sign West Ham target Neymar . There had been reports that there was an agreement between the two clubs stipulating that Barcelona would be given first option on the 18-year-old sensation - an IMScouting Player-to-Watch last year – as well as for midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso , when the Catalan giants loaned 21-year-old forward Keirrison de Souza Carneiro to Santos for next season. However, Santos denied that any such agreement was made, giving hope to West Ham. Santos director of football Paulo Jamelli said in a statement that the "deal does not include the granting of priority in the purchase any current Santos player."
Santos have turned down a £12million offer from West Ham for Neymar , saying they would not even consider selling the forward for less that his £28.4m buy-out clause. But the wonder-kid's father has urged Santos to stop playing hard-ball and allow his son to move to West Ham, and the player himself is said to be keen on a transfer to the Hammers. Neymar, the new star of Brazilian football, scored 10 goals in 33 games for Santos last season, and has bagged three in five matches in the current campaign. Back in July 2009, IMScouting's network of scouts in Brazil highlighted Neymar 's ability with both feet, dribbling, first touch and finishing.

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West Ham United co-owner David Gold admits Scott Parker could be sold
Every player has his price...
By Adithya Ananth
12 Jul 2010 13:00:00
Goal.com

West Ham United co-owner David Gold has finally admitted that the club could consider selling midfielder Scott Parker. His partner, David Sullivan, has so far maintained that every player at the east London club except the former Newcastle United midfielder could be sold, reiterating that stance only recently. However, Gold has admitted that the club could consider selling their star if an irresistible offer were to be forthcoming. Aston Villa have been heavily linked with a move for the Hammers midfielder, as a potential replacement if James Milner should make a move to Manchester City. "f Manchester City pay £50 million for James Milner, Aston Villa then have that £50 million and as a commercial entity they are going to want to replace Milner," Gold said, according to The Birmingham Mail. "Scott Parker is probably one of the best players who was not at the World Cup and the price gets accelerated because Aston Villa have that money from Manchester City. "Scott Parker is not for sale, but what happens if someone offers £200m? It's a laughable scenario, but who would have thought after all those 'over my dead bodies' that [Cristiano] Ronaldo would leave Manchester United? "I believe Scott Parker is our talisman, I have got a picture of him in my office doing something similar to what John Terry did at the World Cup - diving at someone's feet to head the ball away. "Scott is Mr West Ham – we will see where that takes us."

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Remy eyeing West Ham move
ESPNsoccernet staff
July 12, 2010
ESPM

Nice striker Loic Remy is hopeful of completing a move to West Ham United in the coming weeks and claims he has always dreamed of playing in the Premier League. Remy, who has been hailed as the new Thierry Henry, has been linked with a host of clubs around Europe. However, West Ham now look likely to have won out, with co-owner David Sullivan reportedly in France thrashing out the final details. "I would like it to be sorted quickly," Remy told L'Equipe. "I've always loved the English league. I've always dreamed of playing in England. "When a club like West Ham is on the cards, it's always interesting. But nothing has been done, the clubs need to find an agreement and Nice are asking for a lot of money."
Reports suggest West Ham have agreed to pay the €13.5 million Nice are demanding for Remy but want to pay the sum in four annual instalments, whereas the Ligue 1 club are asking them to pay €9 million upfront and the rest next year. West Ham co-owner David Sullivan confirmed to Soccernet that he had met with the president of Nice but refused to comment on the transfer negotiations. However, a well placed source said: "There is still a lot of talking to do, this deal is a long, long way off."
Remy is one of France's hottest talents and the 23-year-old scored 15 goals in 33 appearances last season. The France international has also been linked with a move back to Lyon, where he spent seven years in their youth team and three in the senior side, but Remy now admits "that is no longer my main aim".

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Loic Remy eager to secure West Ham move to realise dream of playing in the Premier League
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 12:37 PM on 12th July 2010
Daily Mail

Nice striker Loic Remy is hopeful of completing a move to West Ham sooner rather than later, claiming he has always dreamed of playing in the Premier League. Remy has been linked with a host of clubs around France and abroad, with Arsenal at one point believed to be interested in the young striker. However, West Ham now look likely to have won out, with co-owner David Sullivan reportedly in France thrashing out the final details. 'I would like it to be sorted quickly,' Remy told L'Equipe. 'I've always loved the English league. I've always dreamed of playing in England. 'When a club like West Ham is on the cards, it's always interesting. But nothing has been done, the clubs need to find an agreement and Nice are asking for a lot of money.'Reports suggest West Ham have agreed to pay the £11.5million Nice are demanding for Remy but want to pay the sum in four annual instalments, whereas the Ligue 1 club are asking them to pay £7.5m upfront and the rest next year.
Remy is one of France's hottest talents and the 23-year-old scored 15 goals in 33 appearances last season. The France international has also been linked with a move back to Lyon, where he spent seven years in their youth team and three in the senior side, but Remy now admits 'that is no longer my main aim'.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 12th July 2010

Balance is key for Grant
WHUFC.com
The manager is keen to ensure a positive outlook while working hard in training
11.07.2010

Avram Grant has spoken of his determination to have a "good atmosphere and a good feeling" around the squad as they prepare for the new season. The feelgood factor has been high at Chadwell Heath since the return to training last week and the coming seven days will see things step up with Scott Parker back in from Monday, the first pre-season friendly away to Peterborough United on Wednesday and the departure for a training camp in Germany this Friday. Potential new arrivals over the coming weeks will also do much to help morale. That said, Grant said it was important to get the balance right between fun and focus. "I have passion but the job of the manager is to make decisions. When you are in the game you have to take a lot of decisions but more [important is] to know what [decisions] not to make. "I prefer myself to concentrate during the game, so if my face is serious I apologise. But, in the game it is not a joke. Out of the game, I like a good atmosphere and a good feeling. I like this also during training with the players - as long as they are 100 per cent committed to be professional and give everything to the team."
While Parker is back, two of Grant's other English internationals in Robert Green and Matthew Upson will not join up with the squad for a few more days as is also the case for fellow World Cup players Jonathan Spector and Valon Behrami. The manager is looking forward to working with such senior players and rejects the doom and gloom of some that followed the nation's early FIFA World Cup exit. "People have a very short memory. Three months ago, the English players were the best in the world. The qualification was great. Everything was great. Everybody was happy and it was good to be around the English players.
"It is individual. It is not English, it is not French. There are very good things in the English mentality but also things that need to improve. I think you need to improve first how they come to big games and big events. They are not showing their real potential. Everybody knows they can play better. "I have got faith in English players. Since I was 20 I have been coming here at least five times a year so I know the English mentality - sometimes better than [the English] because I am inside and also outside. You need to believe in these players, they are good players but sometimes even big players make mistakes. "You don't need to judge the players every game. They were not heroes when they were good in the qualification and they are not so bad now when they played not good in the World Cup. You need to give them a target how to improve and what to give and I am sure there is enough good players in England."

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Frank approach from Sir Trevor
WHUFC.com
Club legend Sir Trevor Brooking will be keeping a close eye on Frank Nouble's England U19s
11.07.2010

Sir Trevor Brooking has been talking about the chances of England tasting glory next week at the UEFA European Under-19 Championship - with Frank Nouble set to lead the line for the Young Lions. The FA's Director of Youth Development, Sir Trevor said the U19s faced a stern test with hosts France, the Netherlands and Austria proving strong group opponents in the eight-nation finals. Nouble will link up with England from Monday at a training camp in the Midlands before they head to Normandy, having played his part in qualification and buoyed by a strong start to pre-season.

Sir Trevor, the five-times Hammer of the Year, said the UEFA U19 Euro experience would serve the likes of Nouble well. "Everything in a tournament is different to life with a club in England. The levels of focus needed, the media scrutiny, the experience of different countries and climates all add to the mix. As does the concentration of matches, in which the opposition are the best young talent. "Beyond the individual level, what is more important is to develop a way of playing, a philosophy that supports our structure throughout the levels while taking pressure off individuals and placing the emphasis on the whole. "

Nouble's England will be based in Caen and will take on Austria, Netherlands and France in their group-stage fixtures on Sunday 18, Wednesday 21 and Saturday 24 July respectively. The semi-finals will be held on Tuesday 27 July, with the final due to be held on Friday 30 July. The other four nations involved in Group B are Spain Spain, Portugal, Italy and Croatia. The top six teams in the finals will also go forward to the FIFA U20 World Cup in Colombia next year as UEFA's representatives. Meanwhile, Sir Trevor reminded that despite the disappointment suffered by the senior squad at the FIFA World Cup, the U17s had already shown this summer that England are improving at youth level. Academy prospect Robert Hall was part of the squad that went to Liechtenstein and returned home with the trophy, while the club also have high hopes for U16 starlets Matthias Fanimo and Blair Turgott.

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Remy deal moves closer
Filed: Sunday, 11th July 2010
By: Staff Writer
KUMB.com

West Ham are close to agreeing a deal for Nice striker Loic Remy. According to French site L'Equipe, the two clubs have agreed a fee of €13.5million (around £11.5million) but are currently at odds with regards to payment terms. West Ham are said to want to spread the payments over the length of Remy's proposed contract (four years) whilst Nice are holding out for an immediate payment of €9million followed by a final payment of €4.5million a year from now. Despite United's prolonged interest in the highly-rated 23-year-old French international, Remy - who has been labelled 'the new Thierry Henry' by some sources - has insisted that he is happy to remain in France. "I am still a Nice player. If they decide to sell me, I will listen to offers and see what we can do," he said last week. "I am relaxed and if nothing happens, I will be happy to stay here."

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They won't let you forget, Rob
By GRAHAM HILL
Published: Today

SCOTT CARSON has warned West Ham keeper Robert Green he will not be allowed to forget his World Cup howler. Carson blundered when he let in Niko Kranjcar's shot in a 3-2 defeat to Croatia - a loss which cost England qualification to Euro 2008. And Green was left red-faced after he fumbled Clint Dempsey's tame shot into the net in the 1-1 draw with USA last month. West Brom stopper Carson said: "I'm sure he's forgotten about it already. "But it's going to be question after question now - he'll have to be prepared for that. "In my case, I forgot about it the next day. But it can keep going for a month or 12 months.
"It's happened to every single keeper but, in our case, it's highlighted more."

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Remy will cost Hammers a Nice amount
Published 23:00 11/07/10 By Alan Nixon
The Mirror

West Ham supremo David Sullivan is trying to thrash out a £12million deal for Nice forward Loic Remy. Sullivan flew to France to negotiate terms and is willing to pay for the prolific striker in four installments. But Nice, who claim Lyon and Bordeaux are also interested, want £8m up front and the rest a year later.
And finding that amount in one hit is a problem, with the Hammers ­reluctant to use all available funds on just one player.

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West Ham United will replace Scott Parker with Portsmouth's Marc Wilson - report
11 Jul 2010 17:45:00
Goal.com

West Ham United will make a move for Portsmouth midfielder Marc Wilson if the club reluctantly decide to sell Scott Parker, according to the Sunday Mirror.
Parker has been strongly linked with a move away from Upton Park, with Manchester City and Aston Villa rumoured to be weighing up bids for the 29-year-old.
The Hammers are not interested in selling their Player of the Season from last campaign but with the club rumoured to be over £100 million in debt, a big offer could be accepted. New manager Avram Grant is keen to sell players to generate funds and has been linked with moves for West Bromwich Albion striker Graham Dorrans and Sol Campbell. And if the club decide to sell Parker, Grant is eyeing a move for Wilson, who he managed at Portsmouth last season. The 22-year-old, who can play in midfield and defence, was impressive last season and may also be an attractive transfer target due to Portsmouth's financial troubles.

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West Ham owner hints that Aston Villa target Scott Parker could be sale after all
Jul 11 2010 by Mathew Kendrick, Sunday Mercury

ASTON Villa have been put on alert after West Ham admitted for the first time that midfield star Scott Parker has his price. But Hammers co-owner David Gold has warned that Parker would cost a significant chunk of the proceeds from James Milner's potential sale. Villa have earmarked Parker as a potential replacement for Milner if Manchester City edge nearer to their £30 million valuation. Parker was the only West Ham player not placed on the transfer list by David Sullivan at the end of last season. And the Hammers have maintained throughout the summer that their star man was not for sale despite Villa's hopes of a £10m deal. But Gold has grudgingly admitted for the first time that a silly-money offer could tempt the Upton Park club to sell their 29-year-old "talisman"
"If Manchester City pay £50 million for James Milner, Aston Villa then have that £50m and as a commercial entity they are going to want to replace Milner," said Gold. "Scott Parker is probably one of the best players who was not at the World Cup and the price gets accelerated because Aston Villa have that money from Manchester City. "Scott Parker is not for sale, but what happens if someone offers £200m? It's a laughable scenario, but who would have thought after all those 'over my dead bodies' that Ronaldo would leave Manchester United? "I believe Scott Parker is our talisman, I have got a picture of him in my office doing something similar to what John Terry did at the World Cup - diving at someone's feet to head the ball away. "Scott is Mr West Ham – we will see where that takes us."

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Russian billionaire poised to inject millions into West Ham United - report
11 Jul 2010 08:59:00
Goal.com

Russian billionaire Len Blavatik could become the latest foreign invester in the Premier League, after it was reported he was readying a £30 million offer to buy shares in West Ham United. According to the News of the World, Blavatik - the 93rd richest man in the world according to the Forbes Rich List - is eyeing up a 35 per cent stake in the Hammers. His fortune, which he built up in America with his multi-national firm Access Industries, is estimated to be worth around £5 billion. Blavatik has yet to make contact with current Hammers' owners David Sullivan and David Gold, but is currently considering his next move after being encouraged by his financial advisers to make an offer. More than 35 per cent of the club is held by Straumur, but they have a creditors' meeting on Thursday amid financial insecurity. Sullivan and Gold rescued the ailing club in January from the brink of administration, and have since been actively looking for investment in the east London club. Despite stating their preference to find a fellow West Ham fan to invest, the pair have made huge strides since taking over and would welcome Blavatik's investment. New manager Avram Grant will hope any deal can be agreed which would supply him with an injection of further transfer funds in an attempt to strengthen the squad. The former Portsmouth boss began life in the Upton Park hot-seat last week and has already been promised access to the club's coffers this summer. Despite poor performances at World Cup 2010, Grant remains defiant when asked about the future of England international's Robert Green and Matthew Upson "I have faith in English players. I've been coming here at least five times a year since I was 20 so know the English mentality," he said. "You need to believe in these players. They are good. In England they only analyse. They've short memories. Three months ago all these players were the world's best. Now they're bad. "There are enough good players in England that there is not a reason to think Germany are better."

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West Ham close in on Loic Remy after clinching £4m Pablo Barrera deal
By Ashley Gray
Last updated at 1:56 PM on 11th July 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham have agreed the signing of Mexico winger Pablo Barrera and tabled a new bid for Nice forward Loic Remy. Mexican side Pumas have confirmed that Barrera, 23, will sign a two-year contract at Upton Park - with the option of a third - subject to him gaining a work permit. The pacy winger, who can play on either flank, will undergo an intense English course and said: 'I am very happy to go there. I was told on Friday afternoon that my transfer to West Ham has been arranged. 'I'm starting to get very anxious about travelling to England so I can join my new team, know my team-mates, the stadium, the city - everything.' The Hammers intend to follow up signing - believed to be worth about £4million - with the capture of France international Remy. Liverpool have also been linked with a player who interests Arsenal and Lyon, but the Hammers are the only firm bidders for a player dubbed the new Thierry Henry. West Ham's latest bid is close to £11.5m, but the Barclays Premier League side want to pay less than £3.5m up front, with the rest spread over the next four years. Nice want £7.5m now with the rest in 12 months.

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Daily WHUFC News - 11th July 2010

McCarthy reflects on finals
WHUFC.com
Benni McCarthy has spoken about the impact the World Cup will have on South
Africa in future
10.07.2010

Sunday night will see the world tune in for the FIFA World Cup final between
the Netherlands and Spain and Benni McCarthy said the tournament has been
great for his country. South Africa have staged a hugely successful finals
and McCarthy, although disappointed that injury and subsequent fitness
issues cost him a place in his country's squad, said the 2010 event will
leave a lasting legacy. "For the country it has been really nice," he said.
"For the infrastructure, the country is in a better state. "A lot of people
had a completely different perception of South Africa and now they have some
really nice things to say about it and everyone wants to go there - it is
now a holiday destination."
However, McCarthy - who is determined to form a potent partnership with
Carlton Cole this season - is not so keen on the vuvezalas that have been
heard the length and breadth of South Africa wherever a match has been
played over the past month. "It is the worst thing. It is a topical South
African thing, but the reason I hate them is that when I am playing I can't
hear myself and I can't get my message across. It is the most annoying thing
and you could go deaf, so I hope they don't bring them into English
football. "That is South African football, this is the Premier League which
is the singing and the cheering your team on, that is what it is all about."
Meanwhile, manager Avram Grant has expressed his sympathy with England after
the match officials failed to spot Frank Lampard had scored a perfectly
legitimate goal in the 4-1 defeat by Germany. He believed video technology
was something that has to happen. "I would like to see it," he said.
"Everybody says this is a traditional game that hasn't changed, but a lot of
things have changed [over the years]. "The rules have changed - you cannot
pass the ball to the goalkeeper [and him handle it] - there are a lot of
things you cannot do that you could do before. I think we need to do it
because you have seen what has happened in this World Cup and it could
happen in the Premier League."

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Hammers chase Piquionne
Striker determined to re-unite with former boss at Upton Park
By Razwan Mirza Last updated: 10th July 2010
SSN

West Ham have reportedly joined the chase for want-away striker Frederic
Piquionne. The 31-year-old has returned to his parent club Lyon following a
successful loan spell at Portsmouth last season. Piquionne, who was managed
by Avram Grant at Fratton Park, seems determined to re-unite with his former
boss at Upton Park ahead of the new season. The former Rennes and Monaco
forward is reportedly upset at having to return to the Stade Gerland, where
he is now expected to force his way into the first team, and now the France
international has issued a come and get me plea to Premier League clubs. He
told L'Equipe: "I want to play so I need to leave. It will be England or
nothing else." Meanwhile, former Rangers and Newcastle defender Jean-Alain
Boumsong looks set to depart Lyon. The 30-year-old could be used as the
makeweight in the Ligue 1 side's attempts to sign striker Yoann Gourcuff
from rivals Bordeaux, while reports in France suggest that the defender
could be set for a move to Bundesliga outfit Hamburg. Boumsong admitted to
L'Equipe: "I would have preferred to stay, but obviously I am not top
priority in defence."

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Hammers want Pompey ace as Parker replacement
Published 23:00 10/07/10 By Paul Smith
The Mirror

West Ham will weigh up an approach for Portsmouth's Marc Wilson if they
reluctantly decide to sell Scott Parker. The Hammers are bracing themselves
for bids for Parker from Manchester City and Aston Villa. Co-owner David
Sullivan put the entire squad up for sale at the end of the season with the
exception of Parker, who he claimed was priceless. But the club have failed
to attract much interest from clubs looking to buy players who have become
surplus to requirements at Upton Park.

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I'M FOREVER BLOWING ROUBLES
Billionaire to pump £30m into West Ham
News Of The World
By Neil Ashton

RUSSIAN billionaire Len Blavatnik is poised to make a £30million offer to
buy into West Ham. Blavatnik - the 93rd richest man in the world according
to the Forbes Rich List - is eyeing a 35 per cent stake in the club. His
fortune, built up in America with his multi-national firm Access Industries,
is estimated to be worth around £5billion. Blavatnik has yet to make contact
with Hammers joint-owners David Sullivan and David Gold about his intentions
but is considering his next move. More than 35 per cent of the club is held
by Straumur but they have a creditors' meeting on Tuesday. The future of the
Icelandic investment bank is expected to be resolved within the next few
months and Blavatnik will continue to monitor developments. Sullivan and
Gold would prefer another West Ham fan to join the board and have yet to
discuss Blavatnik's potential investment. They have a four-year option to
buy Straumur's remaining stake in West Ham and Blavatnik could only buy them
with their agreement. Blavatnik, 53, lives in Kensington and is being
encouraged to make a bid for a one-third share of the Hammers by close pals
in the game. It is the first time he has considered buying a club but he has
links with English football. Blavatnik's company put together a rescue
package for Setanta when it was on the verge of collapse. But the Premier
League pulled the plug on the operation when Setanta defaulted on payments.
Now Blavatnik has an interest in West Ham but may want a much bigger stake
in the club. Sullivan and Gold rescued the Hammers from the brink of
administration when they bought the club in January. The pair are actively
looking for investment in West Ham. They have yet to begin talks with
interested parties but Blavatnik is waiting to make his move as Straumur's
future is resolved. Sullivan and Gold have made huge strides since buying
the debt-ridden club.
They axed boss Gianfranco Zola after narrowly escaping relegation, replacing
him with Avram Grant. The ex-Portsmouth chief began his new role last week
and will be given significant funds to spend this summer. And Grant has
backed his England flops to come out fighting for West Ham.
And Grant even believes that England have BETTER players than Germany, who
outclassed the Three Lions 4-1 in the second round. He said: "I have faith
in English players. I've been coming here at least five times a year since I
was 20 so know the English mentality. "You need to believe in these players.
They are good. "In England they only analyse. They've short memories. Three
months ago all these players were the world's best. Now they're bad. "There
are enough good players in England that there is not a reason to think
Germany are better."

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HAMMERS JOIN CAMPBELL SCRAMBLE
Grant enters the bidding for Sol
News Of The World
By Martin Hardy, 10/07/2010

WEST HAM have entered the race to sign former England defender Sol Campbell.
New Upton Park boss Avram Grant sees the powerful 35-year-old as the
defensive lynchpin to build his side around. Campbell has so far spoken to
Celtic and Sunderland about lucrative deals after leaving Arsenal for the
second time at the end of last season. Neil Lennon wants to take Campbell to
Parkhead and has already spoken to him whilst Steve Bruce has put together a
two-year deal to entice the centre half to the Stadium of Light. Campbell
has been offered a £45,000-a-week, one-year package to move to the North
East with a possibility of a second season if he makes enough appearances.
The move appeals to the player because he will next week marry Fiona Barratt
and the pair have bought a major property in the area. However Sunderland
bosses have still to hear from Campbell over their offer and that has opened
the door for Grant to make an approach to keep him in the capital. Campbell
spent nine years at White Hart Lane with Spurs and in total another six with
Arsenal in two spells. One last spell in London could appeal to a player who
was devastated he didn't make Fabio Capello's final 23 for the World Cup
finals in South Africa. And Grant has been given the kind of financial
backing that would easily incorporate Campbell's wage demands.

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Barrera set to make Hammers move
ESPNsoccernet staff
July 10, 2010
ESPN

Pablo Barrera will sign a four-year contract with West Ham © Getty
ImagesPumas president Victor Mahbub has confirmed they have reached an
agreement with West Ham over Pablo Barrera. West Ham were in competition
with Everton and Espanyol for Barrera, 23, but won the race after offering
£4 million for the Mexico winger. "We have just finished the negotiations
for the transfer of Pablo Barrera to West Ham," Mahbub told Mediotiempo. "We
and the player are satisfied with the arrangement that we have made with
West Ham. "Barrera will be signing a four-year contract and then in two or
three years he will be transferred to another team. We reached a
satisfactory agreement for both parties and I want to make it clear that
there was no agent involved in the negotiations."
Barrera said: "I was told on Friday afternoon that my transfer to West Ham
has been arranged. I'm starting to get very anxious about travelling to
England so I can join my new team, know my team-mates, the stadium, the city
- everything."

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Daily WHUFC News - II 10th July 2010

Pumas confirm West Ham deal
Barrera ready for move
By Patricio Figueroa Last updated: 10th July 2010
SSN

UNAM Pumas have confirmed that they have agreed a deal with West Ham United
for Pablo Barrera. Barrera's future has been the subject of speculation in
recent weeks following a string of impressive performances for his country
at the World Cup. Employed as an impact substitute in South Africa, Barrera
caught the eye with his lightning pace and helped Mexico reach the last 16.
His displays reportedly attracted the attention of several European clubs
including Espanyol, Celtic and West Ham's Premier League rivals Everton. But
it is the Hammers who have won the chase for the 23-year-old's signature,
snapping him up for an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of
£4million. The president of Pumas, Victor Mahbub, announced the transfer was
now completed and Barrera would travel to England this weekend. "We have
just finished the negotiations for transferring Pablo Barrera to West Ham.
We and the player are satisfied with the arrangement that we have done with
West Ham," Mahbub told Mediotiempo.
"Barrera will be signing a four-year contract, then in two or three years be
transferred to another team. "We got to a satisfactory agreement for both
parts and I want to make clear that there wasn't any agent involved in the
negotiations, everything was done from one club to the other and for
respecting both teams we have arranged the transfer."
Barrera himself stated he was looking forward to his move and said: "I have
been informed during the afternoon on Friday that my transfer to West Ham
has been arranged. "Now I am starting to get very anxious about travelling
to England so I can join my new team, know my team-mates, the stadium, the
city, everything."

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