Daily WHUFC News - 8th October 2010

Holmar close to finals
WHUFC.com
West Ham United could be represented at the 2011 UEFA U21 EURO by Holmar Orn
Eyjolfsson
07.10.2010

Defender Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson is on the brink of the 2011 UEFA European
Under-21 Championship finals after Iceland won 2-1 in the first leg of their
play-off with Scotland in Reykjavik on Friday night. Jamie Murphy put the
visitors in front on 19 minutes before Johann Gudmundsson equalised just
after the half-hour mark. Substitute Almarr Ormarsson fired in 12 minutes
from time to give Iceland a crucial lead going into Monday's return in
Edinburgh when a draw or victory would send them through to the summer
finals. The highly-rated Eyjolfsson, who was cautioned in the 25th minute
and is still only 20, is the son of Iceland coach Eyjolfur Sverrisson and
has been a mainstay of their qualification programme. Should they make it
through to the final tournament, it will be the first time the nation has
ever played in a major UEFA or FIFA finals.

Full play-off draw

England v Romania
Netherlands v Ukraine
Spain v Croatia
Switzerland v Sweden
Iceland v Scotland
Czech Republic v Greece
Italy v Belarus

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No rush for Upson deal
Hammers prepared to bide their time in contract talks
By Chris Burton Last updated: 7th October 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Gold is prepared to play a waiting game when it
comes to a new deal for Matthew Upson. The England international's current
contract is set to expire at the end of the season, meaning he could walk
away as a free agent next summer. Talks regarding an extension have dragged
on for some time, with Upson's future hanging in the balance. Hammers boss
Avram Grant revealed last month that a formal offer had been put to the
centre-half and the club were waiting to hear back. That remains the case at
present, with little progress made in a deal which could be vital to West
Ham's long-term plans.

No rush

They are reluctant to see a player of Upson's calibre leave for nothing,
but Gold insists there is no need to panic just yet. "I don't think there is
any rush for Matthew to sign his new deal," he said. "He is now into the
last year of his contract and doing it now or at the end of the season
doesn't really matter to either side. Matthew is always welcome to come to
me and talk about it. "The fact that we're bottom of the league makes it a
bit difficult but it's no rush for neither him nor us."

Gold has also ruled out the prospect of selling Upson in January should the
contract offer remain on the table by the time the transfer window re-opens.
Having worked hard to stabilise the club following a period of financial
upheaval, he insists that he and co-owner David Sullivan are determined to
rid West Ham of their selling club mentality.

Change

"Our stance is that we do not sell our best players," Gold continued.
"That's what we said when we joined the football club. "For the last 40
years West Ham have been famous for selling their best players. You only
have to look at the last England squad - a third of that squad has come
through West Ham - Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson... All these
players have come from West Ham. Imagine, if they were still here, what a
great side we would be. "We are trying desperately to reverse that policy.
Can we achieve it 100 per cent? Of course not, but what we can do is do our
most to change that philosophy.
"We don't want to sell our players. We want to build a team that is a force
to be reckoned with."

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Gold hails Hammers bid
West Ham's co-owner backing club's stadium switch
Last updated: 7th October 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Gold insists the club's bid to move into the Olympic
stadium after the 2012 Games is superior to Tottenham's. The Hammers
declared their interest in moving to Stratford in January while Spurs are
making an 11th-hour effort to land the venue. Gold believes his club's bid
is more beneficial for London as a whole as it will see the Upton Park area
of the city regenerated. "There are many reasons we have the edge,"
explained Gold. "Billions of pounds will be spent on regenerating Upton
Park. Spurs can't do that. "We are linking our bid with the community. We
are linking it with Newham Council. "You will see a fantastic Olympics in
our borough and Newham Council have been hugely involved. "We've linked up
to put together a bid that's sustainable, proper and should be adopted."

Success

Gold has also confirmed West Ham would not insist on the running track being
removed upon the conclusion of the games. The Hammers supremo is satisfied
fans' views would not be impaired in any way and that similar setups have
succeeded elsewhere. "With the running track, I was worried when we first
started negotiations, but there are a number of stadiums that have received
acclaim that have a running track," he continued. "Rome has one and
Rustenburg in South Africa does too and that was considered the best stadium
at the World Cup. The sight-lines of supporters will be as good as the
Emirates and it's not beyond the wit of man to make some changes, where we
can have temporary facilities on the running track, and they're removed for
the athletics season, no problem. "We are fully committed to honouring our
commitment to the legacy by retaining the athletics facilities."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Clemence keeps faith in Green
Coach backs shot-stopper to win back gloves
Last updated: 7th October 2010
SSN

England goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence insists there is 'no reason' why West
Ham keeper Rob Green cannot reclaim the No.1 spot. Green was dropped by
Three Lions boss Fabio Capello and replaced by David Jamesafter his gaffe in
England's World Cup opener against the United States allowed midfielder
Clint Dempsey to equalise. Capello's current first choice is Manchester City
man Joe Hart, who is expected to start Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier against
Montenegro at Wembley. However, 29-year-old Green has been named in the
England squad for the first time since South Africa, and Clemence has been
impressed with his recent form following a tough start to the Premier League
campaign.

Difficult

"Robert is obviously a good keeper otherwise he wouldn't have gone to the
World Cup in the first place," said Clemence. "I have seen the last two
games and he has played very well. "It was a difficult summer for him and a
difficult start to the season which you could understand because there was
an awful lot of pressure on him. "But he looks to be getting back to where
he was before the World Cup." Clemence added: "Only Robert can say how much
affect it had on him being dropped after the United States game. But he is a
strong character. "Only a strong character would have done what he did after
the game in facing up to all of the media. "A lot of people would have
skulked away and not wanted to speak to anyone but he was strong enough to
come out and say I've made a mistake and we get on with it. "Three or four
days later Fabio decided to go with David James but Robert is a strong lad
and he will come back from that. "Robert is one of those lads who will do
everything they can to be the best they can."

When asked if Green could be England's No.1 again, Clemence said: "He didn't
let England down in all the games he played going up to the World Cup.
"There is no reason why he can't be number one. "The problem he has got now
is that Joe Hart has come into the squad, Ben Foster is playing regularly
and playing well at Birmingham, and Scott Carson is also playing well for
West Brom. "All of a sudden, from not having a lot, we've got four keepers
who are going to be battling it out and Joe is the one at the moment who is
in possession. "Having been there myself, possession is nine tenths of the
law.
"But Rob is only 29. Good keepers play to nearly 40. Lots of things can
happen."

After speaking to Green at half-time following his first-half error against
the USA, Clemence was confident the shot-stopper could hold it together. He
said: "The first thing I do is look at the player in the dressing room at
half-time and see whether I think he is in control of everything. "What I
didn't want to do is walk across a dressing room of 23 players and make a
big fuss of him.

Disappointment

"He knows what he has done. I looked at him. I could see the disappointment
on his face but he wasn't in a mess. "I just had a quiet word with him when
he went to the loo on his own basically. I got the response I expected from
him and in the second half he did well. "He made a save at the end which
no-one ever speaks about. We could have lost the game 2-1." Clemence added:
"Was I surprised Capello dropped Green? It is Fabio's decision and we had to
win the next game and he felt it was the right thing to do. "There was so
much pressure on the boy that, god forbid, if he had made another mistake
his life would have been in tatters."

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We won't Hammer out a deal
The Sun
Published: 07 Oct 2010

WEST HAM co-owner David Gold insists there is no panic over Matthew Upson's
new contract. The Hammers and England defender can leave Upton Park on a
free transfer at the end of the season. But Gold is happy to wait before
sitting down for talks over extending Upson's stay. He said: "I don't think
there is any rush for Matthew to sign his new deal. "He is now into the last
year of his contract and doing it now or at the end of the season doesn't
really matter to either side. "Matthew is always welcome to come to me and
talk about it. "The fact that we're bottom of the league makes it a bit
difficult but it's no rush for neither him nor us."

Gold hinted that he would not cash in on the player even if the centre-back
wanted to leave for nothing. He added: "Our stance is that we do not sell
our best players. "That's what we said when we joined the football club.
"For the last 40 years West Ham have been famous for selling their best
players.
You only have to look at the last England squad — a third of that squad has
come through West Ham. "Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson... All
these players have come from West Ham. "Imagine, if they were still here,
what a great side we would be. "We are trying desperately to reverse that
policy. Can we achieve it 100 per cent? Of course not. "What we can do, is
do our most to change that philosophy. "We don't want to sell our players.
We want to build a team that is a force to be reckoned with."

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Gold has a pop at referees
The Sun
Published: Today

DAVID GOLD has launched an attack on the incompetence of top referees. West
Ham co-owner Gold rapped: "Twenty years ago no one knew who refs were but
now they have grown in stature to unbelievable levels. "We're now at the
stage where the ref has become the most important person on the pitch and
they are reluctant to give back that power. "We're talking huge egos here
yet officials are making incredible errors that are life-changing for clubs.
"That's why we need TV technology."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers in 'no rush' to re-sign Upson
Published 11:17 07/10/10 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

West Ham co-owner David Gold is not panicking about the prospect of losing
Matthew Upson on a free transfer and would be happy to wait until the end of
the season for the England defender to commit his future to the club. Last
month Hammers boss Avram Grant revealed the club had offered Upson an
extension to his current deal, which is due to expire at the end of the
season. Upson is unlikely to put pen to paper on his new deal until West
Ham's Barclays Premier League status looks more secure given that he will
need to be playing top-flight football to make England's Euro 2012 squad.
Losing Upson would be a big blow to the Londoners, who have built their
defence around the centre-half since he arrived from Birmingham in a
£6million deal in January 2007. But Gold insists he is not worried about his
star defender's future. "I don't think there is any rush for Matthew to sign
his new deal," said Gold. "He is now into the last year of his contract and
doing it now or at the end of the season doesn't really matter to either
side. "Matthew is always welcome to come to me and talk about it. "The fact
that we're bottom of the league makes it a bit difficult but it's no rush
for neither him nor us."
Despite clearing some of the debts inherited from their Icelandic
predecessors, Gold and fellow co-owner David Sullivan have still only been
able to offer Grant limited transfer funds since the Israeli's appointment.
Selling a prized asset such as Upson could raise the Upton Park club up to
£2million but Gold hinted that he would not cash in on the player even if he
indicated he wanted to leave at the end of the current campaign on a free.
"Our stance is that we do not sell our best players," Gold continued.
"That's what we said when we joined the football club. "For the last 40
years West Ham have been famous for selling their best players. You only
have to look at the last England squad - a third of that squad has come
through West Ham - Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Glen Johnson... All these
players have come from West Ham. Imagine, if they were still here, what a
great side we would be. "We are trying desperately to reverse that policy.
Can we achieve it 100%? Of course not, but what we can do is do our most to
change that philosophy. "We don't want to sell our players. We want to build
a team that is a force to be reckoned with."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham fans promised 'most stunning stadium in Britain'
Published 13:12 07/10/10 By MirrorFootball
The Mirror

West Ham fans will watch their football in the "most stunning" sports arena
in the country if the club beat Tottenham in the race to occupy the Olympic
Stadium, according to Hammers co-owner David Gold. Spurs' 11th-hour bid to
move into the stadium after the 2012 Games brings them into direct conflict
with their east London rivals, who declared an interest in moving to
Stratford in January. Tottenham insist that a move to Stratford is only a
back-up option if their planned Northumberland Development Project fails to
go through as planned. West Ham, who would only have to move three miles to
their new home if they are given the green light, insist their bid is far
superior to their north London rivals. "It will be the most stunning stadium
in the country," Gold insisted. "We'd have two million visitors a year
coming to it because it's the Olympic Stadium and because it's West Ham, and
we would be generating jobs.
"There are many reasons we have the edge. Billions of pounds will be spent
on regenerating Upton Park. Spurs can't do that. "We are linking our bid
with the community. We are linking it with Newham Council. "You will see a
fantastic Olympics in our borough and Newham Council have been hugely
involved.
"We've linked up to put together a bid that's sustainable, proper and should
be adopted."

The board that will decide the stadium's future, the Olympic Park Legacy
Company, have insisted that the running track which will surround the turf
at the Games must remain in place afterwards as part of the government's
commitment to have a new athletics venue in London. AEG, the entertainment
company who have partnered Spurs in their bid, said earlier this week that
they would not be willing to keep the running track. But Gold insists that
West Ham would keep it, potentially giving them the edge over their rivals.
"With the running track, I was worried when we first started negotiations,
but there are a number of stadiums that have received acclaim that have a
running track," said Gold. "Rome has one and Rustenburg in South Africa does
too and that was considered the best stadium at the World Cup. "The
sight-lines of supporters will be as good as The Emirates and it's not
beyond the wit of man to make some changes, where we can have temporary
facilities on the running track, and they're removed for the athletics
season, no problem. "We are fully committed to honouring our commitment to
the legacy by retaining the athletics facilities."

Gold admitted yesterday that he was baffled by Spurs' decision to launch a
bid to move into a stadium which is eight miles from White Hart Lane. David
Sullivan went further than Gold in his criticism of Tottenham's bid,
describing it as "a slap in the face for east London". Sullivan also claimed
Spurs would be so unwelcome in Stratford that a move there would cause
"civil unrest".

Gold defended Sullivan's comments by insisting that his business partner had
every right to air his opinion on a matter close to his heart. "David
Sullivan has been in football for 17 years and has earned the right to speak
his mind," said Gold. "He has invested a huge sum of money in saving West
Ham. That club was on the brink of administration and he has earned the
right to speak his mind, and I would not be one to criticise him."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Behrami blow: West Ham midfielder ruled out of crunch games by knee injury
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 12:42 AM on 8th October 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham midfielder Valon Behrami could be ruled out until the end of
October after suffering medial knee ligament damage. Behrami, 25, has only
made two appearances for the club this season, but will now face a spell on
the sidelines after picking up the injury during the 1-1 draw against Stoke
on September 18. The Swiss international looked certain to leave Upton Park
during the summer with Roma and Palermo leading the chase to sign him.
But the move never materialised and Behrami was determined to get his career
back on track in east London. He will now miss the forthcoming league games
against Wolves and Newcastle and faces a fight to win back his place in the
side.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham will make Olympic Stadium best sports arena in England, says David
Gold
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 4:04 PM on 7th October 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham fans will watch their football in the 'most stunning' sports arena
in the country if the club beat Tottenham in the race to occupy the Olympic
Stadium, according to Hammers co-owner David Gold. Spurs' 11th-hour bid to
move into the stadium after the 2012 Games brings them into direct conflict
with their east London rivals, who declared an interest in moving to
Stratford in January. Tottenham insist that a move to Stratford is only a
back-up option if their planned Northumberland Development Project fails to
go through as planned. Hammer time: Gold has promised the Olympic Stadium
will be the best in the country if West Ham are successful with their bid
for the London 2012 arena West Ham, who would only have to move three miles
to their new home if they are given the green light, insist their bid is far
superior to their north London rivals. 'It will be the most stunning stadium
in the country,' said Gold.
'We'd have two million visitors a year coming to it because it's the Olympic
Stadium and because it's West Ham, and we would be generating jobs.
'There are many reasons we have the edge. Billions of pounds will be spent
on regenerating Upton Park. Spurs can't do that. 'We are linking our bid
with the community. We are linking it with Newham Council.

You will see a fantastic Olympics in our borough and Newham Council have
been hugely involved. We've linked up to put together a bid that's
sustainable, proper and should be adopted.' The board that will decide the
stadium's future, the Olympic Park Legacy Company, have insisted that the
running track which will surround the turf at the Games must remain in place
afterwards as part of the government's commitment to have a new athletics
venue in London. AEG, the entertainment company who have partnered Spurs in
their bid, said earlier this week that they would not be willing to keep the
running track. But Gold insists that West Ham would keep it, potentially
giving them the edge over their rivals. 'With the running track, I was
worried when we first started negotiations, but there are a number of
stadiums that have received acclaim that have a running track,' said Gold.
'Rome has one and Rustenburg in South Africa does too and that was
considered the best stadium at the World Cup. 'The sight-lines of supporters
will be as good as The Emirates and it's not beyond the wit of man to make
some changes, where we can have temporary facilities on the running track,
and they're removed for the athletics season, no problem. 'We are fully
committed to honouring our commitment to the legacy by retaining the
athletics facilities.'

Gold admitted yesterday that he was baffled by Spurs' decision to launch a
bid to move into a stadium which is eight miles from White Hart Lane. David
Sullivan went further than Gold in his criticism of Tottenham's bid,
describing it as 'a slap in the face for east London'. Sullivan also claimed
Spurs would be so unwelcome in Stratford that a move there would cause
'civil unrest'. Gold defended Sullivan's comments by insisting that his
business partner had every right to air his opinion on a matter close to his
heart. 'David Sullivan has been in football for 17 years and has earned the
right to speak his mind,' said Gold.
'He has invested a huge sum of money in saving West Ham. That club was on
the brink of administration and he has earned the right to speak his mind,
and I would not be one to criticise him.'

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Daily WHUFC News - 7th October 2010

Lars leaves on a high
WHUFC.com
Lars Jacobsen's great start to his Hammers career is temporarily on hold
06.10.2010

Lars Jacobsen has headed off on UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying duty reflecting on
a solid start to his West Ham United career. He has been with Denmark this
week before they travel to Porto to take on Portugal on Friday night. They
then play host to Cyprus in Copenhagen next Tuesday before he returns to
Chadwell Heath ready to try and help his new club make it five games
unbeaten at Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday week. The defender has
played a key role in the new-found rearguard stability at the Boleyn Ground,
most recently shown in last Saturday's 1-1 draw with Fulham. It was a result
he said was fair on both sides. Jacobsen was impressive yet again as Avram
Grant's side battled back from a goal down to grab a share of the spoils.
The right-back praised the manager for his half-time tactical change, which
saw the team switch from a 4-4-2 to a 4-3-3 formation and Frederic Piquionne
nod in a 51st-minute equaliser. "You always look to win the games,
especially at home, so obviously we're not buzzing but sometimes you have to
be honest," he said. "Fulham did well, especially in the first half they
gave us a lot of problems, so sometimes you have to take the point and be
happy with that and look forward. "We certainly didn't play the way we
wanted to in the first half. We didn't pass it the way we wanted to. Fulham
caught us a couple of times and it was probably deserved that they scored a
goal. "The manager changed the tactics a little bit at half-time, so it
certainly helped us a lot. It was very good of him to do that and we scored
an early goal which was very important for us to get the crowd going and get
ourselves going in the game. "I think we had a shot at it - we could have
won it but we could have lost it as well. It was an open game in the second
half and I think it was a better half for us."

Jacobsen, a 31-year-old with nearly 40 caps, is experienced enough to know
that securing a draw when you do not play well is an important habit to get
into
With that Wolves game and then Newcastle United next on the fixture list -
with a Carling Cup fourth-round meeting with Stoke City in between - the
defender knows West Ham have a great chance to climb out of the relegation
zone. "We are always happy to take the positives. We have now won two and
drawn two and we can't allow ourselves to look at the table right now
because I don 't think it is the position we belong. I think we belong
further up the table and I'm sure we will collect the points that we need to
get up there. "Especially after the last four games, we can certainly take
the positives. After a game like that, perhaps we didn't play up to our best
level but we still got a point. That's very important for us to keep
collecting the points."

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Dyer delighted with victory
WHUFC.com
The reserve-team coach was rightly on a high after a fine win away to
Liverpool
06.10.2010

Alex Dyer has hailed each and every one of his eleven players and his
support staff after the reserves picked up a tremendous victory at
Liverpool. The Hammers made it three wins from three in the Barclays Premier
Reserve League - all with clean sheets - with the 1-0 success on Tuesday,
which Dyer described as the finest of the campaign to date. Only Benni
McCarthy and Freddie Sears in attack had any real first-team experience, but
Dyer's young side put on a professional display. "The boys worked their
socks off, every one of them was different class," Dyer said. "It was
everything I had hoped for and more. To the last man, they all worked hard
and worked for the team. "Liverpool created a few chances and so did we. We
defended well when we had to and got the goal we needed. I said before the
game that it was good for us to come to different places and get new
experiences. It was a long journey here on the coach but they all upped
their game and did what we asked of them."

Dyer has worked hard to instill a squad mentality in his reserves, and is
also determined to ensure his team goes out to win every match they play.
"They are putting into practice what we do in training. They have taken
things on board, and of course it looks good when it works. They have to
step up to this level and show what they can do."

While the coach had praise for his inexperienced back four - only the
impressive Jordan Spence has been in the first-team picture - and his young
midfield, he reserved special mention for goalscorer McCarthy. It was his
second strike in quick succession after he found the net in the 2-0 home win
against Wigan Athletic last week. "He has worked really hard. He wants to
get fitter and get back in the first team where he belongs. He has put in a
shift and set a good example. He is getting stronger and he and Freddie
Sears both looked sharp. "Whatever the level and however it comes, it is
another goal for him and it will make him feel better. He will score goals
in the first team all day long. It is all good news for the club. Even the
young players on the bench that never got on will have taken a lot from
this, they will see what is required and know they aren't too far away
themselves."

Dyer was delighted to continue the feelgood factor at the club, and stressed
the atmosphere around the camp was positive. All of this is a big team
effort," said Dyer, who praised all of the travelling staff including
first-team goalkeeping coach David Coles and kit man Pete Williams. "It is
all just a big team effort. It ain't about the boys and it ain't just about
me. We all do our little bit to make it come together. Nights like this are
a joy.

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Sanchez signs
WHUFC.com
Young centre-back Sergio Sanchez has been rewarded for his promising
progress in the Academy
05.10.2010

Sergio Sanchez has signed his first professional contract with West Ham
United. The young Spanish defender has been part of Tony Carr's youth
set-up since arriving from Barcelona two years ago. A centre-back, he can
also play at right-back or in a holding midfield role. After establishing
himself as an Under-18 regular, Sanchez has stepped up to Alex Dyer's
reserves this season - playing a part in Tuesday night's win at Liverpool.
Upon signing his first contract, the promising Sanchez said: "I am
absolutely happy to sign my first contract. What I am aiming for is trying
to push up to the reserve team, get some games in there and hopefully do
well. "Obviously if I can be a success here, I will be delighted."

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Sullivan issues riot warning
Hammers owner fears 'civil unrest' if Spurs relocate to Stratford
Last updated: 6th October 2010
SSN

West Ham owner David Sullivan says there will be riots in east London if
Tottenham relocate to the Olympic Park stadium after the Games. Spurs have
joined Premier League rivals West Ham in confirming an interest in moving to
the 60,000 capacity Stratford venue following the Olympics in 2012. However,
Sullivan fears the proposed relocation could spark tension between the
supporters of the two rival clubs. "It would be such a slap in the face to
east London," Sullivan told the Daily Mail. "If it happens, there will be
real problems that could easily lead to civil unrest. "I think there could
be riots, such is the ill feeling between West Ham and Spurs and I know the
police feel the same."

Partners

Sports and entertainment company AEG, who are partnering Spurs in their
official bid to the 2012 legacy company, have put their considerable weight
behind the relocation. AEG's backing suggests the Stratford move is looking
increasingly like Spurs' preferred option, rather than simply a Plan B to
the Northumberland Development Project at White Hart Lane. West Ham held
talks with AEG before they linked up with Spurs, and Sullivan admits he is
'flabbergasted' by the way in which their London rivals are conducting their
business. "I feel very let down by Tottenham," he added. "The way they do
business is not right. "They pinched Eidur Gudjohnsen off us after we
brought him from Barcelona for talks. He just disappeared from the hotel.
And the way they unsettled Scott Parker was appalling. "Now they want to
move into our borough of Newham. How would they like it if we suddenly set
up a new home in Haringey? I'm flabbergasted by the cheek of it."

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Gold baffled by Spurs bid
Hammers co-owner insists his side remain Olympic favourites
Last updated: 6th October 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Gold has been left baffled by Tottenham's rival bid
to move into the new Olympic Stadium. The North London club tabled a
surprise interest in taking up residence at the Stratford venue following
the 2012 Games, placing themselves in direct conflict with the Upton Park
outfit.
Gold and David Sullivan confirmed they were keen on relocating the Hammers
when they took control of the East End side in January and did not expect
further competition from their Premier League rivals. With Spurs having been
given the green light by Haringey council to stay closer to their current
White Hart Lane home with planning permission for a new stadium of their own
with the Northumberland Development Project, Gold does not see why they need
another alternative.

Difficult

Gold said: "I find it difficult to understand that the Spurs regime have
just got planning permission in Haringey council for their new stadium at
Tottenham. Why would they want another one? "I think the issues they have
over their other stadium are relatively small I think, so what I would say
is that our bid is a joint bid with Newham council and is the right bid, the
best bid, the preferred bid. "It brings more to the local community and I
think our bid will be successful."

Senior figures at West Ham are understood to be fuming at Spurs' bid, which
would see the North London outfit move eight miles to their new home. If
successful, West Ham would only have to move three miles and would remain in
the borough of Newham. Tottenham submitted their bid to move to the stadium
with the backing of sports and entertainment company AEG hours before the
deadline at the end of last month. They could arguably be the more
attractive option for the Olympic Park Legacy Company, who will decide the
stadium's future in December.

Hardcore

Harry Redknapp's team are currently playing UEFA Champions League football
while West Ham are at the foot of the Premier League table and are by no
means certain of being in the top flight when the 2012/2013 season begins.
But Gold remains confident that they would be able to fill the 60,000
capacity stadium if their bid is approved. "Our bid is that it will be for a
60,000-seater stadium which we will fill," he continued. "I believe there is
a hardcore of around 50,000 West Ham fans which will help us and we'll be
able to attract another 10,000 fans. "Young people and children will be able
to come to the new stadium at very cheap prices. "Families will be able to
come to matches that they haven't been able to afford before, so what our
bid brings is added opportunities and that's why we believe it will be the
preferred bid."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hearn - Orient face death knell
Brisbane Road chairman accuses Sullivan of hypocrisy
Last updated: 6th October 2010
SSN

Barry Hearn has claimed Leyton Orient would be left 'stone dead' if West Ham
are allowed to move into the Olympic Stadium. And the Brisbane Road chairman
has accused Hammers co-owner David Sullivan of hypocrisy over his anger at
Tottenham's interest in the Stratford venue. Sullivan had voiced his fear
there would be 'riots' if Spurs were granted permission to move from White
Hart Lane, a statement which cut little ice with Hearn. If either Premier
League club are given the green light to move after the 2012 Games, Hearn
fears that having a giant on their doorstep would spell the end for the
League One side, but he has doubts over Spurs' motivation.

Total hypocrisy

He told the London Evening Standard: "If he is worried about Tottenham then
he can only begin to have sleepless nights about the aggravation I'm going
to give him if he moves on my doorstep. "This is total hypocrisy on his
part. This is a case of Tesco moving next to the little sweet shop on the
corner as far as I'm concerned. "A club that has a 30-35,000 support base is
moving into an 80,000-seater stadium. It obviously means very cheap tickets
and it means a death knell for Leyton Orient, the Football League's second
oldest club. "I'm not upset about Tottenham because they have no chance of
getting it. We all know Tottenham are all using this to put pressure on
Haringey Council to make sure they get planning permission on their
redevelopment of White Hart Lane. That's a smokescreen. "I'm upset because
no-one is talking about the damage West Ham will do us because it would be
terminal. It would kill the club stone dead."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gabbidon - Tough to quit Wales
Defender explains international retirement
By Peter O'Rourke Last updated: 6th October 2010
SSN

Wales defender Danny Gabbidon has admitted it was a tough decision for him
to retire from international football. The West Ham player decided to quit
the international scene earlier this week after winning 43 caps for his
country. Gabbidon has endured a difficult last few years with a series of
injuries blighting his progress. The 31-year-old has worked his way back to
fitness and he has started five of West Ham's seven Premier League games
this season.
Gabbidon believes he has made the right decision to quit Wales in a bid to
prolong his club career.

Focus

"It was a really hard decision to quit playing for Wales, but I had to do
what I felt was right for me," Gabbidon told skysports.com. "I had thought a
lot about it, to be fair, and it was tough for me to make my decision. "I
sat down with my agent, Jamie Moralee, and discussed the situation and we
both felt at this stage of my career and after the problems I have had it
was best that I focus on staying fit for West Ham. "It has been a tough last
couple of seasons for me with the injuries and a lot of people don't know
what I have been through on and off the pitch. "I worked hard over the
summer on my fitness and I feel I am wiser about what I can and what I can't
do. "I am not sure my body could cope playing 40/45 games for West Ham and
then going away with Wales and playing two games in a week.

Important

"This is an important time in my career and I felt it was the right decision
to quit international football. "It was a decision for myself as I know my
body and I am happy with my decision. "I was proud to play for Wales for so
many years and win 43 caps and I wish them all the best in the future."

You can follow Danny Gabbidon on Twitter at @therealgabbidon.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers starlet turns pro
Spanish stopper signs contract with Upton Park side
Last updated: 6th October 2010
SSN

Spanish defender Sergio Sanchez has turned professional after signing a
contract with West Ham. The former Barcelona youngster has made the step up
from the club's Under 18 side to their reserve team this season. The
versatile defender can operate at right-back, centre-half and defensive
midfield. Sanchez is delighted to put pen-to-paper on his first professional
deal and is looking forward to continuing his progress at the club. "I am
absolutely happy to sign my first contract," he told the club's official
website. "What I am aiming for is trying to push up to the reserve team, get
some games in there and hopefully do well. "Obviously if I can be a success
here, I will be delighted."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Destroyed for Life
The Sun
By SHAUN CUSTIS
Published: Today

ROBERT GREEN would have been destroyed for life had he played for England
straight after his World Cup clanger against the USA and committed another
howler. That is the view of England goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence who
witnessed Green's South African pain at first hand. West Ham's stopper was
vilified after fumbling Clint Dempsey's soft equaliser for the States. He
was axed for the next match against Algeria and the remaining World Cup
games as David James took over. Green is back in the squad for next
Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro - the first time he has
figured in manager Fabio Capello's plans since the USA nightmare. And
Clemence fully understood why Green had to be removed from the firing line.
He said: "It was Fabio's decision. You felt it was the right thing to do.
"There was so much pressure on the boy that if, God forbid, he had made
another mistake then he would have been in tatters for the rest of his
life."

Green, 30, made a gesture towards the Press box after West Ham's 1-0 win
over Spurs last month, indicating how he felt about the criticism he
received.
But Clemence insists Green is a strong character and that he would never
have walked away from the Three Lions. England's goalkeeping guru added: "I
didn't think he would retire after the World Cup. He will welcome coming
back into this squad with open arms and see it as a challenge. "It's not
that long ago he had No 6 on his gloves and he ended up playing the World
Cup only two years later. "He's not old where goalkeepers are concerned.
"Good goalkeepers play until they're 40 so a lot can happen. "He's a strong
character and only a strong character would have done what he did after the
USA game. "A lot of players would have skulked away and not wanted to speak
to anybody. But he was strong enough to come out and say 'Right this is it.
I know I made a mistake and we get on with it'. "Obviously over the next
three or four days Fabio decided to go with David but Rob's a strong lad who
will come back from that. "He's one of those lads you get in football who do
everything they possibly can to be the best they can. There's no reason why
he couldn't be England's No 1 again.

"The problem he has now is Joe Hart has come in, Ben Foster is playing
regular football at Birmingham, while Scott Carson is also playing well for
West Brom - so there is a lot of competition. "Obviously Rob is a good
goalkeeper, otherwise he wouldn't have gone to the World Cup in the first
place. "It was a difficult summer for him. It was a difficult start to the
season which you can understand because there was an awful lot of pressure
on him. But during the last two games he has played very well and looks to
be getting back to where he was before the World Cup. "All of a sudden from
not having a lot we've got four keepers who are going to be battling it out.
"Joe is the one in possession and, having been there myself, possession is
nine-tenths of the law in England goalkeeping."

Hart did not play in the World Cup at all. But Clemence says the Manchester
City ace has made major improvements in a short space of time. He said:
"It's in Joe's decision making where I've seen the biggest difference from
the start of last season to where he is now. "There is still the occasional
blip - and one was not so long ago. But they will hopefully be fewer and
further apart because that's what the great ones do."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Please donate to my sisters Kenyan Cycle ride for Women v Cancer
http://www.justgiving.com/sandhy-cycles-kenya

Daily WHUFC News - 6th October 2010

Da Costa called by Portugal
WHUFC.com
Young defender Manuel da Costa has been called up for the U23 friendly
against Northern Ireland
05.10.2010

Manuel da Costa has been rewarded for his excellent form with West Ham
United with a call-up for the Portugal Under-23 national team. The
23-year-old will link up with his country this Saturday ahead of the
International Challenge Trophy against Northern Ireland on 12 October at the
Municipal Stadium in Cartaxo. Da Costa came into the Hammers side four
matches ago and has helped Avram Grant's men to remain unbeaten since -
forming a strong partnership with Matthew Upson. News of the talented
centre-back's form has had a positive impact in Portugal. His last
appearance came with a B-team game in April 2009 and this opportunity could
help him to impress new national-team coach Paulo Bento. The former Sporting
Clube de Portugal manager has just taken charge of the national team with
the aim of rescuing their UEFA Euro 2012 campaign after a slow start.
Although yet to win a senior cap, Da Costa was called up twice for the UEFA
Euro 2008 qualifying matches in October 2006 and March 2007.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reserves win at Reds
WHUFC.com
Freddie Sears and Jordan Spence caught the eye in a win at Liverpool secured
by Benni McCarthy
05.10.2010

Benni McCarthy scored the only goal and Freddie Sears shone as West Ham
United reserves maintained their outstanding start to the new Barclays
Premier Reserve League season. The South Africa striker converted from the
spot with ten minutes to go after a Reds' handball in the penalty area. It
was McCarthy's second goal in as many games but even more encouraging was
that it was his second successive 90 minutes in a week. He could figure
again in next Monday's friendly at Dagenham and Redbridge in aid of Lee
Goodwin. McCarthy had been a threat all night, but his partner Sears was the
most potent performer on view. The No10 was a non-stop runner at Prenton
Park - whether through the middle or pulling out to either flank - and had
the Reds rearguard worried all night.

Alex Dyer had headed north with a very young team, unlike the previous
victories this season. Stronger sides had already won 1-0 at Everton and 2-0
at home to Wigan Athletic, meaning the reserves have yet to concede a goal
in 270 minutes of play. It was not for the want of trying from Liverpool
tonight, though, with Ryan Babel leading the line. The Dutch international
forward was well marshalled by Jordan Spence and Sergio Sanchez, while
Dyer's midfield of Olly Lee, Eoin Wearen, George Moncur and Ahmed Abdulla
were tireless in the centre of the park. Liverpool also had players who
stood out - notably Nathan Eccleston and Spanish starlet Dani Pacheco in
attack. It was Pacheco who went closest for the home side at the home of
Tranmere Rovers, lashing in a volley midway through the second half that
clipped Ruud Boffin's crossbar. The Hammers' best moments from open play all
came through Sears although in truth Brad Jones, the Australian
international, like Boffin had a relatively quiet night.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Liverpool 0-1 Reserves
WHUFC.com
All the text updates from Prenton Park as the reserves made it three wins in
a row
05.10.2010

Barclays Premier Reserve League
Liverpool reserves v West Ham United reserves
Prenton Park
Kick-off: 7pm

Final score - 0-1

That's it. All over and it is three wins from three for Alex Dyer's side.
What a professional performance from his young side, although it was the
experienced Benni McCarthy who grabbed the winner with his late penalty.

94min - The referee is letting them play an extra minute. Irwin flashes a
header just wide. That was close.
93min - Fearless tackle by Spence on Spearing sees him clear the danger. The
Hammers captain is down clutching his left knee after a brave challenge.
92min - A minute to go...
91min - We are playing three minutes of added time. Flanagan and Abdulla
exchange words. This match means a lot to both sides.
90min - We are into added time and Boffin calms things with an assured take
from a lofted Liverpool ball forward. Hodgson has seen enough and is on his
way home.
89min - Can the Hammers hold on? They have not conceded a goal in their two
wins from two games this season and might make it three tonight.
86min - Spence does well again to snuff out any danger. The captain is
growing in stature this season.
84min - The Reds are desperate for a way back into this. Dyer will be
delighted with the way his men soaked up the pressure before getting the
goal.
82min - Irwin tries a long-ranger that flies high and wide. Liverpool are
frustrated.
81min - Eccleston counters quickly from the restart. His deep cross is
headed behind for a corner by the rightly cautious Brown. Amoo meets the
corner with his head but could not guide it on target.
79min - GOAL! - McCarthy scores! Benni took the ball with some purpose and
no one was arguing. He took a couple of strides and then lashed it down the
middle past the helpless Jones.
78min - Sears runs with four Reds defenders in pursuit. He supplies
McCarthy, who draws the challenge and wins a corner. Penalty!! Jack Robinson
handles. Sears will take this, surely?
77min - Neat turn and pass from Sears. He feeds McCarthy, who supplies
Moncur. The No8 shifts on to his left and shoots but Liverpool block.
76min - Well done Brown. He crowds out Amoo on the flank and forces him to
kick it behind for a goal-kick. The Hammers have been very organised.
75min - The game is a little bit scrappy now. Tired legs may mean a few more
substitutions. Dyer has a very young bench to choose from but they will
certainly be eager to impress, if given the chance.
73min - Brown clears the danger after a ricochet nearly lets Liverpool in.
Babel looks like he might get the full 90 minutes tonight in front of the
watching Hodgson. The Hammers have denied him so far.
72min - Eccleston gets a half-chance after Liverpool do well up the left
wing.
71min - McCarthy was unlucky there. Modelski crosses and just as the No9 was
about to head in for the opening goal, Stephen Darby rises to clear.
70min - Terrific play again sees five Hammers involved before a ball into
the home side's penalty area is cleared. Dyer's men may believe they can
snatch all three points here.
69min - The Reds cannot handle Sears. McCarthy flicks on and Coady is
nowhere as Sears nips in behind. The No10 is forced wide and he feeds it
back to McCarthy who shoots over the bar.
68min - Amoo's shot is deflected by Spence and Boffin struggles to gather it
at the second attempt. Liverpool had worked the opening well, with Babel
involved.
65min - When I say Sears is having a good game, that is something of an
understatement. He streams forward from his own half in a run that takes him
past two men and to the edge of the area. Coady fouls him and earns a yellow
card. From the free-kick, McCarthy smashes for goal but the ball hits John
Flanagan in the wall and is cleared.
64min - Well done skipper Spence. He stops Babel from getting to the ball
then dances his way past two before launching the ball away.
63min - Sam Cowler is warming up but Boffin may be OK to continue.
62min - Boffin is unhappy with his ankle. He is getting treatment now.
Goalkeeping coach David Coles has made the trip up north and will be anxious
over his young Belgian shot-stopper.
61min - Spearing tries his luck but again the Hammers block. After a
clearance upfield, the ball comes back and then Amoo has a go. Wild shot and
no danger for Boffin.
59min - Sears nips in after a defensive mix-up. He rounds Jones well but his
touch is then a tad too heavy and he is unable to knock the ball at the
goal. It runs out for a goal-kick. Sears is having a fine game.
58min - McCarthy should have scored. Lee fizzes it low across the box and
the South Africa striker does well to connect but cannot divert it
goalwards. The move came after a great run inside from Sears, who then
released Moncur.
57min - Pacheco clips the top of the crossbar with a lofted effort after
just beating Moncur to the ball. The Barcelona product, still only 19, is a
threat from a central position now behind Babel.
55min - Sears drops deep to retain possession. He feeds Modelski but his
cross is blocked. It is a bit hit and miss for the Hammers going forward at
the moment. A quick Liverpool counter is then ended by a superb Wearen track
back and tackle.
53min - Eccleston wins a corner off Sanchez. After a retaken flag-kick,
Moncur clears the danger.
52min - Amoo does well on Liverpool's right wing. He crosses low for
Eccleston, who turns Spence and then shoots low. Boffin watches it run wide
but it was a dangerous moment.
49min - The Hammers are doing well this half. Already Brown and Modelski
have got forward well up the flanks. Dyer has clearly told his men to
believe they can get something from this game with a bit of adventure.
47min - McCarthy and Sears have already shown up well in this second half,
with surges into the Reds penalty area.
46min - David Amoo is on for Liverpool with Thomas Ince making way. The
youngster has already played in the UEFA Europa League for the Reds this
season. No changes for the Hammers.

45min - There goes the half-time whistle. Dyer will be very pleased with his
men, particularly the lively Sears - who has had little to feed on but made
things happen whenever he has had the ball.
45min - Coady does well to block after McCarthy had beat him and managed to
cross. The South Africa striker is showing nimble feet this evening.
45min - We are playing two minutes of added time.
44min - Abdulla is going to the side after treatment. We may have a few
extra minutes because of the previous stoppage in play over the referee's
injury.
42min - McCarthy is enjoying this and twists and turns on the touchline
before playing in a cross. No one is there. Eccleston is then shown the
yellow card for a lunge on Abdulla.
41min - Jordan Brown gets forward for the first time from left-back.
McCarthy's delightful back-heel flick picks him out but the Reds regroup and
clear the danger.
40min - Patient passing play from the visitors ends with Wearen's long-range
ball forward. Dyer's men are certainly trying to find a way through but have
had less of the ball. Spence is then required to block Babel's shot after a
quick Liverpool break.
38min - A good block from Sanchez denies Irwin a shooting opportunity. Then
Abdulla does well to deny Ince. The Hammers are working over-time to stop
the home side moving forward.
36min - Dyer will be very pleased with how his young side have fared
tonight. They have dealt with the early Reds pressure and slowly worked
their way into the match.
34min - This is the Hammers' best spell with No10 Sears at the heart of
things. He is working hard all along the front line. McCarthy is finding his
range and goes close with a header from Abdulla's corner.
32min - Outstanding play from Sears. He was set free down the right by
Wearen's raking pass. He easily twists and turns his defender before
bursting up the byline into the box. Liverpool clear for a corner and then
Jones fumbles the set-piece. A quick Liverpool counter breaks down.
31min - Once again Pacheco is crowded out. The left winger is trying to
break through but finds a white shirt in the way every time.
30min - Modelski nicks the ball away from Eccleston as the Reds thought they
were about to launch another go on goal. The home side are a little bit
frustrated.
29min - Roy Hodgson is among those in the crowd. He will be watching Babel
closely, no doubt.
28min - Ince screws one wide with his left foot after Irwin picked him out
well.
26min - Both Babel and McCarthy are having to come deep in this game looking
for the ball. Both men would prefer to be 20 or 30 yards further forward but
this is a close contest with space at a premium.
25min - Pacheco is looking lively but the Hammers are standing firm at the
back. The visitors are on the back-foot more often than not at the moment.
24min - George Moncur is penalised for a foul in midfield. The referee tried
to play advantage but brought the play back after the attack broke down.
22min - Liverpool carve a way through and Eccleston should score but Sergio
Sanchez is able to clear the danger. From the corner, Irwin hits a
first-time volley but Boffin is down well.
20min - Modelski is cautioned after a tug back on Pacheco as he got the
better of the young right-back with some neat skill.
19min - McCarthy sets Sears away again on the left and the young forward
lashes in a near-post shot. It is easily saved by Jones, though.
17min - Wearen gives away another free-kick on the Liverpool left. Pacheco
takes again and once more finds Babel. Again the Dutchman cannot direct his
header on target. Jordan Spence then does well to clear the danger.
16min - Nathan Eccleston is at the heart of a lot of Liverpool's play up the
left. The Hammers are closing down well though and refuse to make it easy
for their hosts.
15min - We have had a hold up in play here as the referee has a knock. The
fourth official is going to run the line with one of the assistants stepping
into the middle.
11min - A lovely move forward involving Sears and McCarthy sees Filip
Modelski advance up the right. His ball into the centre is good but Abdulla
cannot control and the move breaks down.
10min - Irwin blazes over after a good build-up play by the Reds up their
right wing. A quick Hammers counter sees McCarthy win a flick-on but Sears
cannot connect.
9min - Daniel Pacheco fires in a free-kick after Eoin Wearen's foul. Babel
rises to meet it but the header is high and wide.
8min - As ever, Alex Dyer is proving vocal on the sidelines. He has really
got this young squad motivated this season.
7min - Brilliant play up the left wing from Freddie Sears sees him shift the
ball 40 yards before winning a corner off Conor Coady. Liverpool are able to
clear the resulting effort from Abdulla.
6min - The Hammers refuse to let the Reds settle and are quick into the
tackle. Babel and Jay Spearing feel the full force of some weighty
challenges.
5min - It is a cagey opening but Liverpool are perhaps the more adventurous
as you would expect on 'home' ground.
4min - The Hammers finally show and after a good passing move, Olly Lee
fires in a deflected shot from distance. Brad Jones - the Australian
international - is able to collect with ease.
3min - Ryan Babel - the star man on show for the Reds - shows good footwork
in midfield before being stopped unfairly by Abdulla. Free-kick to Liverpool
but the Reds use it just to keep possession.
2min - Thomas Ince has a good early chance after being fed by Steve Irwin.
Ruud Boffin is able to collect comfortably.
1min - Freddie Sears and Ahmed Abdulla get us uner way.

Benni McCarthy and Ryan Babel are the two stand-out names on view as West
Ham United reserves take on Liverpool reserves on Merseyside this evening.
whufc.com will have live text updates from the Prenton Park home of Tranmere
Rovers, with the Hammers aiming to make it three games unbeaten in the
Barclays Premier Reserve League. Alex Dyer's side have also yet to concede a
goal this season, although have a very young squad on view with five players
on the bench who are yet to figure for the second string. It promises to be
a tricky evening against John McMahon's Reds, who as well as Dutch
international forward Babel also boast Paul Ince's son Thomas in their
midfield.

Lineups

West Ham United: Boffin, Modelski, Brown, Wearen, Sanchez, Spence, Lee,
Moncur, McCarthy, Sears, Abdulla
Subs: Cowler, Craig, Lleget, Fanimo, Subuola

Liverpool: Jones, Flanagan, Robinson, Darby, Coady, Irwin, Spearing, Ince
(Amoo 46), Pacheco, Eccleston, Babel.
Subs: Hansen, Roberts, Bruna, Suso

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Green in, Gabbs out
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 4th October 2010
By: Staff Writer

Robert Green has been recalled to the England squad. West Ham United's
number one - who was humiliated by England manager Fabio Capello following
his mistake against the USA at the World Cup Finals in South Africa by being
dropped from the team and then the entire squad - is the Hammers' only
representative in the squad to face Montenegro next week.

Srtiker Carlton Cole - recalled for the last squad - has been dropped from
the 22 having been benched by Avram Grant in recent weeks following a poor
start to the campaign.

Meanwhile Scott Parker - who has carried his excellent form of last season
into the 2010/11 campaign - is yet again overlooked in favour of players
such as Tom Huddlestone, who Parker dominated during last week's 1-0 win
over Tottenham.

In other news, Danny Gabbidon has announced his retirement from
international football having made 43 appearances for his country. The
31-year-old Welsh defender, who had been named in Bryan Flynn's latest squad
called it an 'honour and a privilege' to have captained his country. He gave
no reason for the decision.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
That was the week that was
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 30th September 2010
By: Tim Keen

Six games, four points and nineteenth place. There has been considerable
discussion as to whether we as fans should be pleased with this return.

The points tally compares favourably with last season's equivalent fixtures,
but the league position looks coldly familiar; we are still amongst the
favourites to go down. So are we doing well or not? Are we about to storm up
the table or stay slumped in the relegation zone?

It has certainly been a good week for the Hammers. Four points from two
tough fixtures and an excellent away win at Sunderland in the League Cup
sandwiched in between. The added bonus of a home tie in the next round
should not be overlooked either, possibly another sign of our changing luck?
It could just be the week that turns our season. The performances have been
impressive. They have shown the right mixture of spirit, organisation mixed
with attacking enterprise that was missing last season. It has been a week
that has seen players other than Scott Parker step up and be counted and
make real contributions to the team. It no longer appears to be Scotty
against the world.

There have been some real causes for optimism. The deadline day signing of
Lars Jacobsen- met with such disapproval by many- appears to have been a
good signing. The full back has added solidity to the right back slot which
had previously been lacking. Whilst unspectacular, the Dane seems to have
the ability to perform confidently at this level; if we're honest it's just
good to have an actual right back at the club!

For the first time this season, we were also able to name an unchanged back
four, continuity at the back is imperative if we are to keep clean sheets.
Perhaps a more significant development on Saturday was the dropping of
Carlton Cole. Whether fans feel this was harsh on a man who has carried the
goal-scoring burden through some tough times or deserved- he has been
lacking goals and has looked out of form this season- it did at least
suggest that we have options. Cole may come straight back in to the starting
line up in a forward three, but it will have hopefully sent out a message to
the team that no player is 'undroppable' and everyone will have to perform
to stay in the team. We don't have a wealth of options in all positions, but
the message will still have hit home.

Avram Grant showed faith in Victor Obinna and Frederic Piquionne after their
excellent performance together at Sunderland and was rewarded. Obinna has
been a bit of a revelation. He is positive when he receives the ball and his
pace and eye for goal have really shone since he made his debut vs. Chelsea.
Piquionne performs exactly as Grant wants; he knew what he was getting when
he signed the 31-year-old from former club Portsmouth. He holds the ball up
well, makes intelligent runs for the team, but still has the skill to run at
defenders and he looks dangerous in front of goal.

It seemed a tad premature to release Guillermo Franco in the summer,
Piquionne though has similar attributes to the Mexican and has the mobility
to boot. There has also been a positive start to the season for Mark Noble.
He now seems to have a more defined role within the team and seems more
comfortable in that role. Like Jacobsen there is a no frills approach to
Noble's game and perhaps this is the year that he may push on after
stagnating somewhat, particularly during last year's struggle.

That struggle and the early season deficiencies should not be forgotten
though. There are suspect areas within the team. Matthew Upson has looked
shaky all season. Rob Green took the brunt of the criticism for the comedy
goal against Chelsea but it was Upson who panicked and looked the more at
fault. Upson has been removed from the England setup and it would be like a
new signing if he could start performing consistently again at this level.

The left back position is still a problem. Herita Illunga has not looked the
same player since he secured a permanent deal and we lack cover in this area
after the sale of Fabio Daprela. Tal Ben-Haim and Danny Gabbidon will do
their best and with their additional height may add some steal to the
backline, but as has been seen with Lars Jacobsen on the right, there really
is no substitute for a man who knows his position. Playing centre halves at
full back is not ideal and limits the attacking options on that flank.

Rob Green had a superb game on Saturday, but it was only a week ago he was
coming in for harsh criticism, even after the draw at Stoke. Green seems in
upbeat mood and eager to prove his critics wrong, his form this season
though has been questionable. Despite the saves versus Spurs, you get the
feeling his confidence is probably only one more high profile error away
from shattering.

It has been a great seven days. Our first points of the season, an excellent
victory in the League Cup and a home draw in the next round too. However,
just as we should not have got carried away with our disappointing start to
the season, 'Sack Grant' and 'We're going down' were extreme reactions to
performances which, Aston Villa aside, were not too bad, so we should not go
too far the other way and think that the club is out of the relegation woods
after our first league win.

There are real signs of progression and Grant is keen to highlight the
continuous development of the squad. The manager has remained calm during
his spell under pressure. While the press have been calling for his head, he
has pointed out that while results have been bad, the performances have been
improving. He seems in touch with reality as well, 'there is no deserve in
football' has been uttered on numerous occasions. He appears a man who does
not over celebrate the good times, or hit rock bottom when things are
against him.

The process (not the project) is far from complete though. There are bound
to be setbacks and disappointments this season, one good week does not make
a season. West Ham have always had the ability to pull a performance and
result such as Saturday's out of the hat and just as capable of
disappointing when the supposed smaller teams come to town. A victory over
S**rs could easily be followed by a real grind and a bad result against
Fulham. It's really important that we as fans don't forget that even if we
do struggle against Fulham or any of our opponents in the coming weeks, this
team does look capable of producing top performances which could not be said
last season.

We can't afford for the win over S**rs to be the only highlight of our
season. The campaign has a long way to run and it would not be West Ham
without a few ups and downs to fray the nerves and test the durability of
finger nails. While we all hope that this week is the beginning of an upturn
in results and performances and we must savour such a sweet victory, we as
fans need to be careful for it not to raise expectations beyond what is the
reality; that we are still a club in debt, we are still in the relegation
zone and there is work to be done. It sure is great to beat S**rs though.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Spurs bid is minus track
Tottenham would make Olympic Stadium more football-friendly
By Ben Collins Last updated: 5th October 2010
SSN

Tottenham's bid to move into the Olympic Stadium would not include an
athletics track remaining at the London venue. The sport and entertainment
company, AEG, which runs the 02 arena in Greenwich has joined forces with
Spurs in a surprise last-minute attempt to be tenant after the 2012 Games.
West Ham have long made it clear they wish to move into the venue in
Stratford, east London, and their bid is being backed by Newham Council.
But while they intend to keep the track, Tottenham and AEG wish to convert
the stadium into a more football-friendly venue.

Crime

"I think it is a crime if you sacrifice having a perfect football stadium
for convincing yourself you are going to do a track and field event every 10
years," said AEG president and chief executive Timothy Leiweke, who is
meeting Tottenham executives during a whistle-stop visit to London. "It
makes sense long term. The government and everyone needs to make a decision
to ensure that it is usable. "You make that stadium the best football
stadium in the country for Tottenham because if you do that then you are
going to make it the best stadium for the next 30 years."

London 2012 promised the International Olympic Committee (IOC) when it won
the right to host the Games that an athletics track, capable of staging
major events, would be part of the legacy of staging the Games. However, AEG
Europe chief executive David Campbell reckons the issue is not a deal
breaker.

Experience

He claims that the wording of the invite for expressions of interest in the
stadium by the Olympic Park Legacy Company (OPLC), which will decide the
venue's future, does not oblige bidders to retain a running track. "It is
about fan experience which is absolutely a part of what we do," said
Campbell.
"It is great for the fans and for the artists - be it in football or
basketball or concerts. If you get a Premier football team you cannot have a
running track around the stadium."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Olympic Stadium now first choice for Tottenham
Club may ditch plans to rebuild White Hart Lane
Running track would be removed from east London site
Owen Gibson
guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 5 October 2010 20.55 BST

The prospect of Tottenham Hotspur abandoning plans to rebuild White Hart
Lane and moving instead to the Olympic Stadium moved a significant step
closer yesterday when the club's corporate partners revealed plans to ditch
the running track after the 2012 Games and spoke openly about outflanking
West Ham's rival bid.

AEG, the US sports and entertainment company that turned the Millennium Dome
from national embarrassment to a huge success story as the O2 Arena, was
bullish about its chances of securing the stadium and claimed its
partnership with Spurs was the only one that could fulfil the Stratford
stadium's commercial potential.

The Olympic Stadium option has previously been talked of as a "back-up plan"
for Spurs but it is understood that the idea is now under serious
consideration as an alternative to rebuilding White Hart Lane.

Tim Leiweke, the president of AEG, said: "We've been pretty selective on the
projects we get involved in here and, when we do, we haven't had many
stumbles."

AEG Europe's chief executive, David Campbell, added that Tottenham's fan
base made it a more viable option than West Ham. "They have got 35,000
people on a paid-for waiting list. They can fill 60,000 seats. Can West Ham?
I don't know but I don't feel as confident as I do about Tottenham."

Spurs are increasingly pursuing a twin-track approach to enlarging their
stadium and boosting their revenues despite last week gaining planning
permission to rebuild White Hart Lane, amid fears that extra demands from
Transport for London, Haringey council and English Heritage will increase
the final bill. According to the latest estimates, additions to the final
cost of building a 56,250-seat stadium adjacent to the club's current home
have taken it to more than £400m. At the same time, Spurs have been forced
to reduce the number of residential units planned to be built to help fund
the scheme from 500 to 200.

AEG's proposal to remove the running track will reopen a bitter debate about
the Olympic Stadium's legacy. The London organising committee chairman, Lord
Coe, has been adamant that it must remain, given the legacy promises made to
the International Olympic Committee, and West Ham's joint bid with Newham
council proposes to retain it.

But AEG said yesterday that it has studied the terms of the Olympic Park
Legacy Company's criteria carefully and is convinced it would consider
proposals that do not include a running track.

"Seb [Coe] and I go back a long way," Leiweke told the Guardian. "We chose
to support the London bid and picked a fight with the mayor of New York in
doing so. Seb knows we're great for the legacy and invested in other sports
here. We will also continue to respect the reason they brought the Olympics
here in the first place. But to sacrifice the environment of the anchor
tenant for one event a year or every five years, we've got to take a step
back and ask whether we're not better off putting our resources in bringing
back other types of Olympic sport."

The argument over the future of the stadium goes back to shortly after the
bid was won in 2005. The previous Olympics minister Tessa Jowell resolved to
keep it as a 25,000 seat athletics venue, reduced from its 80,000 Games-time
capacity.

But the debate was re-opened when the wisdom of reducing the capacity was
questioned and the Olympic Park Legacy Company took on responsibility for
the post-Games use of the venues. It is estimated that it would cost at
least £150m to convert the Olympic Stadium, which is being built without
merchandising and hospitality facilities as part of the minimalist design.
There will also have to be comprehensive changes to the floodlights and
roof, which at present only covers a third of the stadium.

As last Thursday's deadline passed for expressions of interest in the
Olympic Stadium, Spurs were granted planning permission by the local
government to build a new stadium adjacent to White Hart Lane.

"We're not crazy. We wouldn't do things that we thought wouldn't be
worthwhile in the end," said Campbell. "We don't back losers so I don't
think we will be backing a loser." He said the proven track record of the O2
Arena would help convince the Olympic Park Legacy Company that it was the
right choice. "We went into a big white elephant and made it work for the
government and work for us," said Campbell. "We hope we can do the same
here. We can make it commercially viable."

Leiweke's enthusiasm is driven by his belief London is "the greatest city on
the face of the earth" and he predicted the Olympics would give the city a
20-year golden period when "the economy will thrive based on every business
in the world saying they want to be part of London".

West Ham still believe they are favourites to move into the stadium after
the 2012 Olympics and their owner David Sullivan claimed last night that
awarding the stadium to Tottenham could cause a violent reaction locally.
"It would be such a slap in the face to east London," he told the Daily
Mail. "If it happens, there will be real problems that could easily lead to
civil unrest. I think there could be riots, such is the ill feeling between
West Ham and Spurs and I know the police feel the same."

West Ham's plans, which retain the athletics track, and have a strong
community element, have been welcomed by Coe and UK Athletics. The OPLC is
scheduled to come up with a final shortlist by November before anointing a
preferred bidder in December and reaching a "settled position" next March.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Shilton: Green will be forever haunted
Wednesday 6th October 2010 6:56
TeamTalk

Peter Shilton has warned Robert Green he will be haunted by his World Cup
howler for his entire life - even if he redeems himself for England. Monday
saw Fabio Capello select Green for the first time this season as the Italian
named his squad for Tuesday's European Championship qualifier against
Montenegro.
The 30-year-old West Ham goalkeeper was axed in the wake of his blunder that
cost England victory in their World Cup opener against the United States.
"He was pretty consistent and then had that worst moment of his career and
it will live with him forever," Shilton said. "But at least he's back in the
squad and maybe he'll get an opportunity in future to repay that error and
let England fans forget it."

Shilton, who won a record 125 England caps during his glittering career
between the posts, believes Green deserves his recall and should never have
been dropped in the first place after the US game. "He couldn't do any more:
he went out, he apologised after the game, he stood up, he didn't hide,"
Shilton said.
"I thought he should maybe have played in the next match. "Wayne Rooney, for
example, never had a kick in that match and yet he started the next match.
"That's the nature of goalkeeping; I thought maybe Capello could've shown a
bit more loyalty to him. "But it was a World Cup and he didn't want to take
a chance. "Poor Robert must've gone through that situation thinking, 'I'm
never going to play for England again'. "So it's nice to see him get back in
the squad and it's also an opportunity for him to stay in. "And, who knows?
If he gets an opportunity, maybe he can redeem what happened."

Green's absence from the squad has seen Joe Hart establish himself as
England's undisputed number one but Shilton warned the Manchester City
keeper he can afford to make no more than one mistake in the next year if he
wants to remain so. He said: "He's going to make mistakes but he hasn't got
to make too many. "He's got to make one every year or one every 18 months,
not one every two or three games, which is what let down the previous
goalkeepers."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West ham have to wait two weeks for Wolves clash
8:49am Tuesday 5th October 2010
Guardian Series

IT is not nice being bottom of the table. And West Ham will have to wait a
little longer than usual to be able to do something about it. The
international break this weekend has probably come at the wrong time for the
Hammers. Despite their position propping up the rest, they are now unbeaten
in four games in all competitions. However, a point in the 1-1 draw with
Fulham at Upton Park on Saturday was not enough to keep them from slipping
back to last spot. Not that boss Avram Grant is too bothered. "The position
is not important at this stage of the season," he said. "One win can move
you forward five or six places. Of course, we don't want to be bottom, but
what is important is that we continue to improve." And Grant insisted: "We
are improving in many things."
Though the performance against Fulham was not the best of the season, it was
important West Ham got something from the game to keep their recent unbeaten
spell going. It means all five of their Premier League points to date have
come from the last three games. Clint Dempsey put the Cottagers in front,
but a goal early in the second half from the on-form Frederic Piquionne was
enough for a point, even if Fulham looked the likelier to grab a winner in
what was a very open game of football.
West Ham are not now in action until they travel to Wolverhampton Wanderers
on October 16. At least they know a win will definitely take them off the
bottom, as Wolves are the side that sit directly above them on goal
difference.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Please donate to my sisters Kenyan Cycle ride for Women v Cancer
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Daily WHUFC News - 5th October 2010

Reserves relish Reds test
WHUFC.com
An intriguing date at Liverpool on Tuesday night is a new but exciting
experience for Alex Dyer's side
05.10.2010

Alex Dyer's reserves will head to Liverpool this evening looking to make it
three wins from three in the Barclays Premier Reserve League. The Hammers
second string won 1-0 at Everton last month before following that up last
Tuesday with a 2-0 home success against Wigan Athletic. The quick return to
Merseyside to take on the Reds promises to be the toughest challenge yet -
especially as Dyer is unlikely to have as many senior players at his
disposal as he has had in the first two outings. The coach said his young
players - likely to be led again by Jordan Spence and feature Freddie Sears
in attack - were all eager to put their hard work on the training pitches
into action when they take to the field at Prenton Park, home of Tranmere
Rovers. Liverpool boast a strong youth set-up too, including Thomas Ince,
the 18-year-old midfielder son of former Hammer Paul. Dyer said: "I am
looking forward to getting back out there. The boys are doing well and they
can't wait to play. We are looking forward to going to a good club, a club
with tradition and hopefully we can go out and give a good account of
ourselves. "I hope we can repeat [the Everton result] but we had a strong
squad in that match. Tonight, the lads will be quite a lot younger but it is
a good opportunity for them to go out there and see what they can do."

The Barclays Premier Reserve League has been reshaped for the new season,
with the 16 competing teams now split into three divisions. West Ham are in
the Southern section alongside Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, West Bromwich
Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers, with the Hammers taking on each of their
division rivals home and away. Dyer's squad will also take on the ten teams
in the two other divisions - Northern A and Northern B - once each, making
for a 20-match season. Liverpool are currently top of Northern B, having
taken five points from their opening four matches.

The coach said the new format was "great" and was already making for a more
interesting programme. "It gives the lads a chance to travel up north and
for other clubs to see them as well. For them to play against new different
players and experience travelling is invaluable. "The bread and butter for a
footballer is to travel, sit on a coach for a long time, then play a game
and then get home at 3am in the morning. It is all a learning curve and will
help them develop for the future. "I am hoping again to go there and give a
good account of ourselves. I want to go to Liverpool and win the game. I am
not looking to sit back and go through the motions. Even if we have a
younger team, I still want to win the game, play attacking football and show
ourselves in the best light."

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Newcastle match just 15 pounds
WHUFC.com
The club has a special offer open to season ticket holders only for the next
home game
04.10.2010

Season tickets holders can take advantage of a superb ticket offer for the
Newcastle United home game on Saturday 23 October. As yet another 'Thank
you' for the terrific backing given this season, the club is offering season
ticket holders the chance to buy up to three additional tickets for friends
and family at the reduced rate of £15 each. This innovative offer is first
come, first served and is subject to availability - with a maximum of 3,000
tickets available on this basis. With last weekend's home game with Fulham
selling out, fans are urged to move fast or face disappointment. The team
has received passionate backing of late and with Newcastle set to bring
strong away support, another exciting afternoon is expected in east London.
The Premier League newcomers having started the season in solid fashion. The
north-east club promise to be tricky opposition, having achieved wins away
at Everton and Chelsea this campaign, and boast the likes of England hopeful
Andy Carroll in attack. The Hammers are unbeaten in the last two home
matches, having won 1-0 against UEFA Champions League side Tottenham Hotspur
and then drawn 1-1 with unbeaten Fulham last Saturday. Manager Avram Grant
could also have Thomas Hitzlsperger back in contention for his home league
debut as part of an increasingly strong squad. Youth Academy members can
also exclusively take advantage of the Kids for a Quid promotion on this
fixture, with child tickets available for just £1. That's not all, with the
club slashing all ticket prices for the Carling Cup last-16 tie against
Stoke City four days later. Season ticket holders have until Friday, 8
October, to make sure of their seat before they go on sale to members.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Green in England squad
WHUFC.com
England manager Fabio Capello has called Robert Green into his squad to face
Montenegro
04.10.2010

Robert Green has been rewarded for his tremendous early-season form with a
call-up to the England squad to face Montenegro at Wembley on Tuesday week.
The goalkeeper has caught the eye with his displays this season - most
notably in helping the Hammers secure a 1-0 victory against Tottenham
Hotspur last month. Green, 30, has eleven caps to his name but has not
figured so far in UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying. He played a key role in helping
the Three Lions to the 2010 FIFA World Cup and started the opening match
against the United States.

England squad

Ben Foster (Birmingham City), Robert Green (West Ham United), Joe Hart
(Manchester City)

Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool),
Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), John
Terry (Chelsea), Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa)

Gareth Barry (Manchester City), Joe Cole (Liverpool), Steven Gerrard
(Liverpool), Tom Huddlestone (Tottenham Hotspur), Adam Johnson (Manchester
City), Aaron Lennon (Tottenham Hotspur), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal), Shaun
Wright-Phillips (Manchester City), Ashley Young (Aston Villa)

Darren Bent (Sunderland), Peter Crouch (Tottenham Hotspur), Kevin Davies
(Bolton Wanderers), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

With 2012 UEFA European Championship and CAF Africa Cup of Nations
qualifiers, 2011 UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-offs and friendly
matches being contested all over the world, the Hammers' international
representatives will certainly be kept busy.

• PABLO BARRERA is in the Mexico squad for the international friendly
meeting with Venezuela in Mexico City on 12 October.

• VALON BEHRAMI may be ruled out of Switzerland's EURO 2012 Group G meetings
with Montengero in Podgorica on 8 October and Wales in Basel four days later
due to a knee injury.

• TAL BEN HAIM is almost certain to be involved as Israel host Croatia in
Ramat Gan on 9 October before travelling to Piraeus to take on Greece in
EURO 2012 Group F on 12 October.

• THOMAS HITZLSPERGER is unlikely to be fit enough to face either Turkey in
Berlin on 8 October, or Kazakhstan in Astana four days later as Germany
continue their EURO 2012 Group A campaign.

• LARS JACOBSEN should be involved when Denmark travel to Porto to take on
Portugal on 8 October and host Cyprus in Copenhagen on 12 October in EURO
2012 Group H.

• VICTOR OBINNA should be in the Nigeria squad that travels to Conakry to
take on Guinea in a 2012 CAF Africa Cup of Nations Group B qualifier on 8
October.

• HOLMAR ORN EYJOLFSSON will be with the Iceland squad for the EURO U21
play-off with Scotland. The first leg is in Iceland on 7 October and the
second in Scotland on 11 October.

• WINSTON REID is in the New Zealand squad to host Honduras in Auckland on 9
October and Paraguay in Wellington on 12 October. Both matches are part of
the ASB International Series of friendly matches.

• JONATHAN SPECTOR is in the United States squad for an international
friendly meeting with Poland in his home city of Chicago on 9 October and
Colombia in Chester, Pennsylvania on 12 October.

• MAREK STECH is in the Czech Republic squad for the EURO U21 play-off
against Greece. The first leg is in Czech Republic on 8 October and the
second leg in Greece on 12 October

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gabbidon ends Wales career
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender Danny Gabbidon has called time on his international days
with Wales
04.10.2010

Danny Gabbidon has announced his retirement from international football. The
31-year-old has been capped 43 times by his country but has decided to call
it quits in order to focus on his club career. He has been in great form for
West Ham United this season, making five appearances so far and impressing
at left-back. Gabbidon has been at the Boleyn Ground for five years and was
voted Hammer of the Year in 2006.

In a statement, Gabbidon said:

After nine fantastic years of playing international football for Wales
during which I had the honour and privilege of captaining my country, and
after long consideration, I have decided to retire from international duty.
On a personal note, I would like to thank the Football Association of Wales
for their support over the years and I would like to thank people of Wales
who supported me and my fellow team-mates at every game, home and away,
giving their all to the cause - true supporters!

I would also like to say a special thank you to my family, friends and
management team, who have stood by me throughout the many good times and
very few bad times.

It has been a wonderful journey.
Thank you all.
Daniel Gabbidon

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gabbidon ends Wales career
Hammers defender hangs up international boots
Last updated: 4th October 2010
SSN

West Ham defender Danny Gabbidon has called time on his international
career, the Football Association of Wales have announced. The 31-year-old,
who has not played for his country since last November due to injury, had
been named in Brian Flynn's squad for the impending Euro 2012 qualifying
matches against Bulgaria and Switzerland. However Gabbidon, who has won 43
caps for Wales, announced his international retirement through the FAW on
Monday afternoon. He said: "After nine fantastic years of playing
international football for Wales during which I had the honour and privilege
of captaining my country, and after long consideration, I have decided to
retire from international duty.

Support

"On a personal note, I would like to thank the Football Association of Wales
for their support over the years and I would like to thank people of Wales
who supported me and my fellow team-mates at every game, home and away,
giving their all to the cause - true supporters! "I would also like to say a
special thank you to my family, friends and management team, who have stood
by me throughout the many good times and very few bad times. "It has been a
wonderful journey."

Gabbidon, who made his first Wales appearance against the Czech Republic at
the Millennium Stadium back in 2002, is the second Welsh player to quit
international football this season following Fulham's Simon Davies. The
defender did not give a reason for his retirement but is in the final year
of his contract at Upton Park and spoke only last week of the importance of
the current season. He has been hampered by injuries in recent years but,
playing at left-back, has impressed so far this campaign under new Hammers
manager Avram Grant Gabbidon's absence for Friday's match against Bulgaria
in Cardiff and next Tuesday's visit to Switzerland strikes another blow for
caretaker boss Flynn, who is already without striker Robert Earnshaw and
captain Craig Bellamy.

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Noble - Grant has helped me
Hammers midfielder praises Israeli boss
Last updated: 4th October 2010
SSN

West Ham midfielder Mark Noble has praised manager Avram Grant despite their
stuttering start to the season. The Hammers currently sit rock-bottom of the
Premier League despite picking up a point against Fulham at the weekend. It
has been a tricky start for Grant at Upton Park after the Israeli coach took
the reins in the summer, but Noble, 23, says his manager has got the best
out of him. "I'm enjoying my football at the moment," he told the club's
official website. "I'm looking forward to every game and I just want to keep
improving. "I had a little spell when I lost a little bit of confidence and
wasn't playing to my best. "I was playing out of my position but now I feel
I'm playing in my best position and slowly getting better every game. "The
manager said 'go out and play' and that's obviously what I want to do. I'm
playing in the centre of midfield and that's where I want to play. "I'm
playing with Scotty (Parker) and we obviously understand each other and
we're keeping the ball well in games and controlling games when maybe two or
three weeks ago we were off the cuff."

Big call

Grant left Carlton Cole out of the starting line-up on Saturday in favour of
Frederic Piquionneand the French striker once more got on the scoresheet.
Noble added: "The manager knows the players here like to play football and
when you've got the likes of Freddie and Victor (Obinna) up front and Coley
to come on, we know we've got a threat now and teams will be scared of us.
"We played really well in games and lost, but we're gelling together and
looking forward to the games coming. "The manager is paid to make decisions
like this and it's paid off for him at the minute because Freddie is on fire
and scoring goals and that's what we need." Meanwhile, Noble also came out
in support of Robert Green, who has been under pressure since his World Cup
blunder for England. "Greeny is the same every week," he remarked. "During
the week he trains hard and is the same every day. "He's had a couple of
mistakes in the last few months but hopefully they're gone now and he can
crack on. We all know what a fantastic goalkeeper he is."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Grant expects to beat drop
Hammers boss confident of steering a route to safety
By Chris Burton Last updated: 3rd October 2010
SSN

Avram Grant is adamant that West Ham United will pull clear of trouble this
season and remain a top flight outfit. The Hammers prop up the Premier
League table at present, with just one win taken from their seven fixtures
to date. That solitary success, recorded against Tottenham last week,
momentarily lifted them off the bottom, but they returned to the foot of the
division over the weekend. Victories for Everton and Wigan, coupled with a
1-1 draw of their own against Fulham, saw the Hammers slip back down the
standings.There is, however, still plenty of time in which to claw their way
to safety and Grant is confident that his side will not be playing
Championship football next term. "We are not a team to be on the bottom of
the league," said the Israeli, who suffered relegation with Portsmouth last
season. "We are not heading for relegation. We play football to be in a
better place and we will do it."

Key to West Ham's survival plans will be their ability to get goals. They do
have a number of attack-minded players on their books and Grant has called
on one of those, loan signing Victor Obinna, to maintain his recent fine
form. "Obinna didn't play for a long time before he came to us and he was
good for us (against Fulham)," said Grant. "He can play in many positions.
He can play left or right and he can play better also. "He sometimes does
things on his own but I do think he is a team player as you saw with his two
assists in the last two games."

Grant has also been quick to praise summer signing Frederic Piquionne, with
the French striker having found the target three times in his last three
appearances. "Last year when I was at Portsmouth, he scored some important
goals for us," he added. "He has scored three in the last three. If he
continues like this then he will be good. "He is working hard. He is a team
player and you saw the difference in his movement (against Fulham)."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Danny Gabbidon announces retirement from Wales duty
West Ham defender had not played for country since last year
31-year-old won 43 caps for Wales
guardian.co.uk, Monday 4 October 2010 17.18 BST

The West Ham defender Danny Gabbidon has announced his retirement from
international football with Wales. Gabbidon has not played for his country
since last November due to injury, but had been named in Brian Flynn's squad
for the upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland. The
31-year-old, who won 43 caps, announced his decision through the Football
Association of Wales this afternoon. Gabbidon said: "After nine fantastic
years, during which I had the honour and privilege of captaining my country,
and after long consideration, I have decided to retire from international
duty.

"I would like to thank the Football Association of Wales for their support
over the years and I would like to thank the people of Wales who supported
me and my team-mates at every game, home and away, giving their all to the
cause – true supporters. It has been a wonderful journey."

Gabbidon is the second Welsh player to quit international football this
season, following Fulham's Simon Davies. No reason has been given but
Gabbidon is in the final year of his contract at West Ham and spoke only
last week of the importance of the current season. Gabbidon has been plagued
by injuries in recent years but, playing at left-back, has made an
encouraging start to the campaign under the new manager Avram Grant.

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