FK Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham United FT
WHFC.com
Sam Baldock is on target in Austria as the Hammers start their pre-season
schedule
07.07.2012
FK Austria Wien v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Franz Horr Stadium
Saturday 7 July 2012
Kick-off: 4pm
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Final score - FK Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham United
90 mins - The Fanatics are singing away to my right as we enter the final
moments. Some fans are making for the exits. It's been a good workout for
both teams. Obviously the result is not ideal, but at this stage it is about
building fitness levels and avoiding picking up injuries.
88 mins - Jack Collison and Joey O'Brien are not injured, for those
wondering why they are not playing. Both are being managed through the
opening part of pre-season. As fans will know, both have had long-term knee
injuries previously. The pair were involved in training in Bad Waltersdorf,
while also taking part in their own individual training programmes.
87 mins - Vaz Te wins a corner. O'Neil drills the ball head-height to the
near post where McCartney heads wide. Good-ish chance. The opportunity is
greeted with 'Ooohs' from the away fans behind the goal.
85 mins - Vaz Te wide right and crosses. Noble challenges but is beaten in
the air by a defender. Nolan collects but loses possession. OK, so we're
coming to the end of the first week of pre-season training and there are
plenty of positives. By 18 August, the Hammers will be ready to go.
83 mins - Kaja Rogulj (Say that after a night out!) and Sebastian Wimmer are
on for the final few minutes. West Ham have a free-kick and the ball is
worked to Vaz Te. He shoots low across the face of goal and wide.
81 mins - Superb tackle by Spence. Kienast had got in behind Potts and on to
a looping ball forward. The former England Under-21 man used his pace to
slide in and poke the ball back to Jaaskelainen. Wien finishing the game
strongly. They have two more substitutes ready to come on, too...
79 mins - A half-chance for the giant Kienast, but his glancing header from
a left-wing cross bounces well wide.
78 mins - The game might be nearly over, but West Ham will want to compete
until the final whistle. Spence conceded a corner, but the Hammers hold
firm. The sun has come out again here in Vienna.
75 mins - GOAL! Jun has time to come forward and just outside the D he hits
a rasping shot that flies past Jaaskelainen's right hand as the goalkeeper
dives to his right. Before the game restarts, Wien bring on Roman Kienast,
Srdan Spiridonovic, Lukas Rotpuller and Martin Harrer. They also took four
players off, just to make things fair.
74 mins - It's end-to-end at the moment and again Potts does well to block a
shot from Murg, but West Ham don't clear their lines properly...
73 mins - Noble's corner is won by Vaz Te, but his header flies over the
top.
71 mins - The second half has been livelier than the first, I would say. Vaz
Te goes down, but it's play on as McCartney crosses and Jun puts the ball
behind for a corner.
70 mins - Murg and Jun combine but Potts makes a superb sliding interception
to clear for a throw. If he hadn't reacted so quickly, Jun would have been
in on goal.
69 mins - It's drinks time again on the touchline. The PA announcer, who is
not the violet-clad lady from earlier on, thanks the 7,150 fans who have
made the trip to the stadium for attending.
67 mins - Fantastic save! Jaaskelainen dives to his right to keep out a
volley from Jun. The Czech was no more than ten yards from goal, but the
goalkeeper flung himself to push the ball around the post. Great stuff from
the flying Finn. The corner comes to nothing as Gorgon slips as he takes it.
Stoger clearly isn't impressed as he replaces Gorgon with Thomas Murg.
65 mins - A good spell of possession from West Ham. Noble and Lletget
combine well on the right before the American whips in the cross. Grunwald
the goalkeeper punches clear but Noble is there. He beats one man and
crosses, but the ball skims wide of the far post. Encouraging interplay and
good confidence from Lletget, who lost his man first with a neat
Cruyff-turn, then beat him to the byline to cross.
62 mins - There is a chap going around the stand handing out pints of water
to the fans. Good man. He is dressed like one of the ushers you might see
selling ice cream in the theatre or, if you're old enough, the cinema...
60 mins - Grunwald curls the free-kick over and Jaaskelainen watches the
ball into his hands.
59 mins - Florian Mader is on for Wien in place of Vrsic. The goalscorer
gets a handshake from bespectacled coach Stoger. Seconds later, Morrison is
booked for a challenge on Koch.
57 mins - Vaz Te has looked lively in training this week, winning a
finishing drill on Friday. He shoots from 25 yards, but the ball flies wide.
The No12 grimaces in frustration. We know what he can do from that sort of
range.
55 mins - Vrsic has a half-chance from Koch's cross, but his looping header
clears the crossbar comfortably. Jaaskelainen watches the ball drift safely
over the top.
52 mins - Koch is playing at left-back for Wien, while Jun and Alexander
Grunwald are in central midfield. Thankfully for the players, it has cooled
down a little bit weather-wise. The sun has gone behind a cloud for now.
51 mins - Ok, positions... Lletget at right-back, Spence and Potts in the
middle and McCartney at left-back. O'Neil, Noble, Nolan and Morrison across
the midfield. Vaz Te and Maynard up front. Oh, and Jaaskelainen is in goal.
49 mins - Close call again. McCartney gets forward and into the box. He
shoots right-footed and the ball curls a yard or two wide of the far post.
47 mins - West Ham have the ball in the net as Vaz Te beats one man and
finds O'Neil in space. The midfielder crosses and Vaz Te heads down for
Maynard to finish, but Nolan had been penalised for a foul. Shame. Wien have
brought on goalkeeper Pascal Grunwald, Alexander Grunwald, Koch and Jun, but
I don't know who has gone off just yet.
46 mins - The second half starts. Nolan is now captaining West Ham.
OK, here is the Hammers lineup for the second half: Jaaskelainen, Lletget,
Spence, Potts, McCartney, Morrison, Noble, Nolan, O'Neil, Maynard, Vaz Te
The hosts have made a lot of changes too, so I'll update their lineup when I
have it worked out!
Half-time score - FK Austria Wien 2-1 West Ham United
Click on the link below to renew your Season Ticket for the Barclays Premier
League. You have about an hour and seven minutes to ensure you keep your
seat for 2012/13!
46 mins - The half-time whistle is blown by the referee Harald Lechner. Wien
now have 13 substitutes warming up! Anyway, West Ham trail at the break
after a bright start. The home side have looked neat and tidy and could have
scored a goal more, perhaps. Again, it is important to point out that Wien's
season starts in two weeks. The Hammers don't play a competitive fixture
until 18 August.
45 mins - Into the final minute of the half and still the black-shirted
hosts lead. Maynard collects a pass from Spence, goes to ground and appeals
for a foul, but nothing is given.
41 mins - The Wien coach Peter Stoger is a cool-looking customer. He is
sporting some very natty glasses. His team are also looking good at present
as left-back Suttner races forward and crosses low. Linz slides but the ball
is just too strong. That was a bit of a let-off.
40 mins - There is a sort of murmur around the place at the moment. Wien are
controlling possession for the most part. This is a good workout for the
Hammers at the end of their first week back. Simkovic pulls the ball back
for Stankovic, but the latter's first-time shot slides off the outside of
his right boot and wide of the target.
38 mins - Taylor and Lletget have swapped flanks. Taylor now playing on the
right, and the young American on the left.
37 mins - Wien are playing with some confidence at the moment. Linz holds up
play before Simkovic plays in Vrsic. The latter tries to backheel into the
path of Linz, but only gets a slight contact under pressure from Reid. The
ball rolls through to Henderson.
35 mins - I can only guess that Wien are fielding a completely new team
after half-time. They currently have eleven substitutes warming-up!
33 mins - Baldock wins another corner. To clarify about Cole's departure. He
did appear to take a minor knock, but got up and walked off the pitch under
his own steam and didn't look in any serious discomfort. The corner is
cleared.
31 mins - West Ham come again and Tomkins wins another corner. It is high
again and Lindner punches out for a throw before the hosts clear their lines
properly.
30 mins - Diame swings the ball out to Taylor. He controls on his chest and
looks up before nearly catching out Lindner at the near post. The keeper
scrambles the ball behind for a corner. Tomkins wins it, but Wien
half-clear.
29 mins - Well, that wasn't in the script, but there is plenty of time to
go...
27 mins - GOAL! The home side lead and that's a good goal, to be fair.
Simkovic gets clear down the left again and has time to pick out the run of
Vrsic inside the penalty area. The Slovenian arrives and slots the left-foot
shot low into the bottom right-hand corner.
26 mins - Nicky Maynard replaces Cole. Meanwhile, Taylor's low cross has
been put behind for a Hammers corner. The No14 picks out Tomkins at the far
post, but the skipper heads high and wide under pressure from a defender.
24 mins - GOAL! Linz takes advantage of the absence of Cole to beat one
challenge on the edge of the Hammers box and prod a low shot past Henderson.
The goalkeeper could do nothing about that. Wien level things up.
23 mins - It is VERY hot. So, we're having a quick drinks break. Cole has
gone off briefly so West Ham are down to ten men.
22 mins - If you are still intending to renew or apply for a Season Ticket
for the coming season, you're time is running out! The deadline is 5pm today
UK time - that's a little more than 90 minutes from now! To do so, click
here.
20 mins - Good sliding challenge by Diame ends another Wien attack and
Lletget shows good composure to play a couple of one-twos before driving
into the midfield. Nice. The American has pedigree and will be eager to make
the most of his opportunity today.
18 mins - A first real chance for the home side as Vrsic gets down the right
and beats Potts. His cross is low to the feet of Linz, who turns and gets
his shot away. It is half-blocked and Henderson dives to his right to make
the catch as the ball spins slowly towards the net.
16 mins - It's fairly competitive for a pre-season game so far. The early
West Ham goal means Wien have to come out and play their way back into
things. They are certainly having more of the ball, but they're not
dominating West Ham by any means.
12 mins - Cole is penalised for a push inside the Wien box as he rises for a
header. The home side come forward again and it's Simkovic in space on the
left. He crosses, but Tomkins does well against Linz and the visitors clear
their lines for a throw which is dealt with easily.
10 mins - Simkovic feeds the ball from the left wing inside for Stankovic,
but his shot is charged down by Spence. The right-back keeps moving and
blocks a follow-up shot too. Good work.
9 mins - Diame and Morrison both get in challenges in quick succession. The
midfield pair have never played together before, but that sort of commitment
will impress both the coaching staff and fans alike. Indeed, Diame's fine
tackle earns him a cheer from the few hundred travelling Hammers supporters.
8 mins - Wien show for the first time as Suttner and Stankovic combine, but
the cross is headed away by Taylor at the far post.
6 mins - That's the perfect start for Neil McDonald's men! The sun is
shining and it's been bright so far from the visitors. The home fans behind
the goal to my right - the Fanatics - are singing their hearts out to try to
encourage their team back into the game.
4 mins - GOAL! BALDOCK! The ball is gifted to Cole by Simkovic and he runs
at Ortlechener before running past the centre-back and clipping a high cross
over the goalkeeper Lindner from the byline. Baldock is not favourite by any
means but he rises highest and somehow squeezes his header between Lindner
and the post. Boos from some of the home fans!
3 mins - The Hammers keep possession nicely before Cole flicks on Tomkins'
clip forward. Margreitter is there ahead of Baldock but his hurried
clearance falls back to West Ham. Cole finds Lletget, who wins a throw deep
near the corner flag. It comes to nothing, however.
2 mins - Spence at right-back, Tomkins and Reid in the middle and Potts at
left-back. Lletget wide right and Taylor wide left with Diame holding
alongside Morrison. Baldock and Cole up front in a 4-4-2 formation.
4pm - We're underway and the home side immediately threaten with a long ball
over the top for Vrsic to chase. Tomkins gets back and puts enough pressure
on and
the striker fluffs his shot. Henderson collects the bouncing ball. The
2012/13 season is up and running!
3.59pm - Here are the two teams. West Ham are wearing their away kit from
last season, but don't forget the new away kit is available to buy now and
the new home kit is available for pre-order from here.
3.57pm - OK, nearly time for kick-off but no sign of the teams just yet...
3.50pm - OK, the two teams have headed back into their dressing rooms after
their warm-ups. Apologies for the lack of updates but I have been
photographing the travelling Hammers fans over in the far corner of the
stadium. It is 33 degrees here in Austria - that is in excess of 90 degrees
if you prefer. The photos will appear on the official Facebook page here.
FK Austria Wien: Lindner, Margreitter, Vrsic, Simkovic, Linz, Ortlechner,
Stankovic, Gorgon, Holland, Dilaver, Suttner
3.25pm - Apologies for the missing information in the text below. We had
technical issues at the team hotel this morning - no internet! So, this was
written on the coach on the way to the stadium. All is well now, I hope! I
am told we will have the home side line-up confirmed in about five or ten
minutes...
3.10pm - We have the West Ham team! The starting XI is as follows, with
James Tomkins as captain. The Hammers will start the second half with a
different team, although some players will feature for the full 90 minutes.
West Ham United: Henderson, Spence, Tomkins, Reid, Potts, Taylor, Diame,
Morrison, Lletget, Cole, Baldock
3.05pm - The President of FK Austria Wien is being interviewed by the home
side's version of Jeremy Nicholas - a blonde lady in a violet outfit as
befits the PA announcer of The Violets! For an exclusive Facebook gallery
from today's game, click here.
Good afternoon and welcome to the Austrian capital Vienna for West Ham
United's opening pre-season fixture ahead of the 2012/13 Barclays Premier
League campaign.
Today's opponents are 23-times Austrian Bundesliga champions FK Austria
Wien, a club with an illustrious history and who finished third in the
top-flight last season.
The Hammers have been working hard for the past five days at their training
camp in the village of Bad Waltersdorf, 80 miles south of Vienna.
However, they will face a stern test this afternoon as Austria Wien have
been back in pre-season training themselves for a few weeks and will open
their Bundesliga campaign against Wolfsburger AC on 21 July. The test will
be made tougher still by the weather conditions - sunshine and temperatures
in excess of 80 degrees.
With manager Sam Allardyce back in England taking care of transfer business,
assistant boss Neil McDonald will take charge at the 10,850-capacity Franz
Horr Stadium.
McDonald will give most, if not all, members of the travelling party a run
out. However, some of the more senior players are expected to play just 45
minutes to ease them back into action after their summer break.
Today's fixture will give West Ham fans - both those living in central
Europe and those who have travelled out from England for the game - a first
glance at summer signings Jussi Jaaskelainen and Mohamed Diame, while
Stephen Henderson and George McCartney are set to feature for the first time
since making their loan moves permanent.
Austria Wien are one of Austria's traditional big three clubs - the other
two being cross-city rivals Rapid and SK Sturm Graz - and are considered to
be the country's most-successful side ever, with 23 league titles, 27
Austrian Cups and a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final appearance to their name.
Formed in 1911, Die Vielchen - The Violets - enjoyed fantastic success in
the 1960s and 1970s, winning eight league titles in eleven seasons between
1975 and 1986. In 1978, they reached the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup final, only
to be beaten 4-0 by Belgian side RSC Anderlecht, while in 1979 they got as
far as the European Cup semi-finals.
After starting the 1990s with three consecutive league titles and winning
two more in 2003 and 2006, Austria Wien have been overshadowed by the likes
of Sturm Graz and Red Bull Salzburg in recent years.
However, under coach and former Austria midfielder Peter Stoger, the club
has finished in the top three in each of the previous three seasons and the
signs are there that Austria Wien could soon be tasting success once more.
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Macca happy despite defeat
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald was satisfied with his players' efforts in their opening
pre-season fixture
08.07.2012
When it comes to the first match of pre-season, just as the old Olympic
Games saying goes, it is not about the winning but the taking part. That was
the view of assistant manager Neil McDonald following West Ham United's 3-1
defeat at FK Austria Wien on Saturday. Playing against a team that has been
back in training for three weeks, the Hammers started brightly and went
ahead through Sam Baldock's header before their opponents' greater fitness
levels saw them come back to claim victory. "The game went very much the way
I thought it would go," McDonald confirmed to West Ham TV. "We started off
well and scored a really good goal through Sam and then their passing and
moving took over. "We conceded two poor goals in the first half. The goal
they scored in the second half was a really good strike so probably, all in
all, we're pleased. "We said before the game that it was all about improving
our fitness and getting our endurance up and a lot of them played 45
minutes-plus so it finished off a good week, even though we got beaten 3-1."
West Ham rocketed out of the blocks at the Generali Arena, going ahead
inside four minutes when Carlton Cole burst past a defender and clipped a
cross to the far post for Baldock to bundle in. Unfortunately, Wien were
ahead by half-time as Roland Linz and Dare Srvic were allowed to finish from
inside the penalty area.
The result was then put beyond doubt with 15 minutes to go when Czech
substitute Tomas Jun lashed a well-placed drive past debutant Jussi
Jaaskelainen from 20 yards. "I think the goal was fantastic, wasn't it?
Carlton Cole has run down the line and put in a good cross to the back post
and Sam was in the right place at the right time. "The positives are that
we've had a good week's training and a stern test because they are three
weeks ahead of us - they start in two weeks' time so they were always going
to be a lot brighter and a lot fitter and fresher. "The lads have done what
they were asked to do, considering that was their first week."
Among those to give their all for the cause after just six days on the
training pitch were teenagers Sebastian Lletget, who played at right-back in
the second half, Ravel Morrison and Dan Potts, who featured at centre-back
during the closing 45 minutes. "They did very well. We asked them to play in
different positions as well because of the lack of numbers and they've done
OK. "We're happy with their performances and it was a great experience for
them coming away with the first team on pre-season, some of them for the
first time, and to play against a very strong and sharp team. "There are
plenty of positives from a very, very good week in Austria."
Two players to miss the game were Jack Collison and Joey O'Brien, who have
been on special individual training programmes due to the long-term knee
injuries they suffered earlier in their careers. Cole, meanwhile, was
brought off after 25 minutes as the medical staff continue to manage his own
well-documented knee issue.
McDonald said that, while all three could not play their full part in the
game, there was great value in them being present for the whole week in
Austria. "The majority of the senior staff are here so, even though they
were never going to play or be involved in the first game, it was important
for them to come with the lads and do all the training sessions. "They've
got through all that so they'll be ready to move on to the next stage when
we go back home."
The pre-season schedule will continue with a trip to non-league Boreham Wood
on Tuesday evening - with Meadow Park set to be a shade cooler than the
90-degree temperatures experienced in central Europe. "It's been lovely in
Austria - the weather has been perfect from when we arrived to when we flew
back home and that's the weather you want for pre-season. "It's hot to run
about in, of course, but I think the lads have acquitted themselves really
well considering we have only had one week of training."
The midweek fixture will see the return of Sam Allardyce to the dugout after
the manager missed the Austrian training camp to work on bringing in new
recruits back in London. McDonald confirmed that the Club would be working
hard to strengthen the squad ahead of the opening Barclays Premier League
fixture at home to Aston Villa on 18 August. "That was the reason Sam didn't
come. He's been very busy over the summer. He's been on the phone trying to
get deals done and I'm sure he'll be trying even harder in the next few
weeks to try and freshen the squad up because we need competition for every
place in the lineup."
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Baldock's big ambition
WHUFC.com
Sam Baldock is determined to make his mark for West Ham United in the
Premier League
08.07.2012
Sam Baldock has told West Ham TV he is determined to make his mark again for
West Ham United. The diminutive striker opened his account for 2012/13 by
scoring the Hammers' goal in their 3-1 pre-season defeat at FK Austria Wien
on Saturday with a typically-opportunist close-range finish. Having been
left out of the starting lineup for much of the second half of last season,
the No7 is itching to force his way back into manager Sam Allardyce's
thoughts and make an impact in the Barclays Premier League. "I don't see why
I can't take this opportunity to stake my claim," said Baldock. "Everyone
knows that during the second half of last year I was very frustrated. "I'm a
footballer who wants to play football at the end of the day. I've been
working hard and hopefully I'll be given a chance to show what I can do."
Focusing on his goal, Baldock revealed that he had been slightly fortunate
to score, but that there was no luck involved in him being in the right
place at the right time to meet Carlton Cole's far-post cross. Having worked
on movement in the opposition penalty area on the training pitch the
previous day, it was pleasing for the forward to see his hard work pay off.
"I wasn't particularly pleased with my performance but I don't think anyone
can say they played particularly well - it was more about getting a run out
and seeing if you can get that match-sharpness after six days of training.
"It was a good end to the trip in a nice stadium with a good atmosphere and
quite a few travelling fans, which was nice to see. "I saw Coley made a
great run and he got pretty much to the byline. I thought I'd lose my marker
by making a run to the back stick where he hung it up and to be honest it
just hit me! "It hit the defender and came off my shoulder but it's a goal
and strikers love goals, don't they."
*Speaking to West Ham TV, Baldock also discussed his week at the Club's
pre-season training camp in Bad Waltersdorf, competition for places and
thesuperb team spirit present in the squad.
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Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 7th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
An experimental West Ham XI were well beaten in the opening game of their
pre-season in Austria this afternoon. With Sam Allardyce back in the UK
taking care of business, assistant Neil McDonald oversaw a 3-1 defeat
against an almost full-strength Wien side at the Franz Horr Stadium in
Vienna. Featuring new signings Stephen Henderson and Momo Diami plus
youngsters Seb Lletget and Ravel Morrison, the Hammers took the lead with
just four minutes on the clock when Sam Baldock rose highest to nod home a
Carlton Cole cross. However the home side were back on level terms 20
minutes later when Roland Linz beat Henderson from the edge of the box. Wien
grabbed a second goal in the space of just three minutes shortly after to
take the lead when midfielder Dare Vrsic slotted home a Tomas Simkovic
centre. And the game was wrapped up 15 minutes from time as the former Czech
Republic international Tomas Jun beat sub goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen from
distance to give the home side a 3-1 win. Carlton Cole, who had a hand in
West Ham's goal was replaced with just 26 minutes on the clock by Nicky
Maynard after pulling up with a knock - however the damage is not though to
be serious.
Match Facts: Austria Wien 3-1 West Ham Utd
West Ham Utd: Henderson (Jaaskelainen 46), Spence, Tomkins (McCartney 46),
Reid (Noble 46), Potts, Taylor (O'Neil 46), Diame (Nolan 46), Morrison,
Lletget, Cole (Maynard 26), Baldock (Vaz Te 46).
Subs not used: None.
FK Austria Wien: Lindner; Dilaver, Margreitter (Rogulj 83), Ortlechner
(Rotpuller 76), Suttner (Wimmer 83); Gorgon (Murg 68), Vrsic (Mader 59),
Holland (Spiridonovic 76), Simkovic; Linz (Kienast 76), Stankovic.
Subs not used: None.
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Baldock to fight for place
Striker determined to force his way into Hammers side
Last Updated: July 8, 2012 10:20am
SSN
Sam Baldock is determined to prove that he is worthy of a regular role at
West Ham, as they ready themselves for a Premier League return. The
highly-rated striker linked up with the Hammers last summer after being
lured away from the MK Dons. He netted five times in his first nine games,
but saw first team opportunities dwindle as the season wore on. Baldock
played a bit-part role as the Hammers secured promotion back to the
top-flight through the play-offs, but is convinced that he can fight his way
back into contention in 2012/13. "I don't see why I can't take this
opportunity to stake my claim," said Baldock, who scored in a pre-season
friendly defeat to Austria Vienna on Saturday. "Everyone knows that during
the second half of last year I was very frustrated. "I'm a footballer who
wants to play football at the end of the day. I've been working hard and
hopefully I'll be given a chance to show what I can do."
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Hammers lose in Vienna
Baldock goal not enough for West Ham as new boys make debuts
Last Updated: July 7, 2012 6:06pm
SSN
West Ham kicked off their pre-season preparations with a 3-1 defeat by
Austria Vienna. A side featuring new signing Mohamed Diame was well beaten
in the Austrian capital despite Sam Baldock's fourth-minute opener. Baldock
got his head to a hanging Carlton Cole cross to force the ball home, but
that was as good as it got for the visitors sent out by Neil McDonald in Sam
Allardyce's absence. With Cole off the field for treatment Vienna levelled
midway through the first half, Roland Linz evading a challenge on the edge
of the box and beating Stephen Henderson. And three minutes later Tomas
Simkovic burst down the left and picked out Dare Vrsic, who finished well.
Recently re-signed George McCartney appeared for the second half along with
new boy Jussi Jaaskelainen, and the veteran goalkeeper made a couple of
decent stops before Tomas Jun netted a third for the home side.
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Hammers Sunk By Austrians
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
All seems to have gone a little quiet on the transfer front, although the
fact that Sam Allardyce wasn't at West Ham's first pre season friendly today
presumably indicates that some sort of transfer action is afoot. The Hammers
went down 3-1 to Austria Wien this afternoon, with Sam Baldock scoring with
a header after just four minutes. Not a lot should be read into this as the
Austrians are two weeks ahead of us in their pre season preparations.
Stephen Henderson and Mo Diame both made their debuts.
* Gianfranco Zola has been confirmed as Watford's new manager. He will link
up with Gianluca Nani and Scott Duxbury.
* West Ham's new signing Mo Diame has been named in Senegal's Olympic squad,
unlike Demba Ba.
* It is rumoured that ex Hammers youth team player Kieran Richardson will
sign this week for £3 million from Sunderland.
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Get Real! Real Madrid reject bid for Arsenal and West Ham target Joselu
The Mirror
Real Madrid have rejected a five million euros bid for reserve striker
Joselu from German side Hoffenheim according to AS. The 22-year-old scored
26 goals last season as Real Madrid Castilla were promoted to the Segunda
Division and has also caught the eye of sides in the English Premier League
with Arsenal and West Ham both reported to be interested. Real are believed
to want a fee in the region of 10million euros and will also ensure a
buy-back clause is inserted in any potential transfer. Meanwhile, another of
the promoted Castilla side, Dani Carvajal, has joined Bayer Leverkusen for
five million euros. The right-back has signed a five-year deal with the
German giants after deciding to leave Madrid to gain more first-team
experience. The Spanish champions do however also have a buy-back clause in
force on the 20-year-old for the next two seasons.
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West Ham's Diame included in Senegal soccer squad
Reuters.co.uk
Sat Jul 7, 2012 10:30pm BST
(Reuters) - West Ham United signing Mohamed Diame has been included in
Senegal's Olympic squad and will miss his club's final preparations for
their return to the English Premier League next month. Midfielder Diame,
signed from Wigan Athletic, is one of three over-age players in the 18-man
squad announced by the Senegal Football Federation on Saturday. The
Newcastle United pair of Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse were omitted after talks
between the federation and their club manager Alan Pardew, the Senegalese
news agency APS said. Included in the squad is teenage Everton striker
Magaye Gueye, who previously represented France at youth level but has
switched his nationality with FIFA approval. The Olympic tournament, which
starts on July 26, is played at under-23 level. Senegal are in Group A with
hosts Britain, Uruguay and the United Arab Emirates. (Reporting by Mark
Gleeson in Addis Ababa; Editing by Alison Wildey)
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Austria Vienna 3 West Ham 1: Hammers crash in pre-season opener
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 18:38, 7 July 2012 | UPDATED: 18:38, 7 July 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham were beaten in their first pre-season friendly fixture in Austria
on Saturday. Sam Baldock gave the Premier League newcomers a fourth minute
lead at the Franz Horr Stadium when he headed in Carlton Cole's cross.
However, Roland Linz and Dare Vrsic netted within the space of three minutes
midway through the first half and substitute Tomas Jun's goal 15 minutes
from time made sure of a home victory.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 8
Saturday, July 7
Daily WHUFC News - 7th July 2012
West Ham United in Austria - Friday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's pre-season training camp is coming to a close in Bad
Waltersdorf
06.07.2012
West Ham United's pre-season training camp in south east Austria may be
approaching it's conclusion, but that does not mean the hard work has
stopped. After breakfast, the Hammers were back on the training pitch in Bad
Waltersdorf on Friday morning and will finish the day with a session in the
gym in the late afternoon.
After the players had loosened up individually in the gym this morning, the
group headed on to the grass for a range of drills before joining first-team
coach Wally Downes for a competitive crossing and finishing session. With
the staff keeping score, the players went through a succession of drills
aimed at improving their crossing, movement in the penalty area, shooting
and heading. With Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson eager to impress
and keep their team-mates at bay, the scene was set for a battle in the
sunshine.
Like all professional sportsmen, the players were desperate to show what
they could do inside the penalty area. First, a pass-and-move drill saw all
the outfield players take turns at crossing and finishing before Downes
split them into smaller groups for two further exercises. Left-footers Matt
Taylor, George McCartney and Dan Potts delivered crosses from their usual
flank, while Mark Noble, Jordan Spence and James Tomkins swung balls in from
the right. Inside the penalty area, the attacking midfielders, forwards and
centre-backs took turns to get on the end of the crosses. After half-an-hour
of intense action, Ricardo Vaz Te came out on top with seven goals to his
name, edging out Noble, Winston Reid and youngster Sebastian Lletget. With
that, it was time for the players to stretch-off and head for the ice baths
before jumping on to their mountain bikes for the ride back up the hill to
the team hotel.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble loving it all
WHUFC.com
Newly-married Mark Noble is enjoying life on and off the football pitch
06.07.2012
Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy. West Ham United's No16 ended
last season by helping the Club to gain promotion to the Barclays Premier
League and being voted Hammer of the Year for the first time. Over the
summer, Noble also became a husband, marrying childhood sweetheart Carly in
a ceremony in central London. Speaking to West Ham TV at the Club's
pre-season training camp in Austria, the midfielder revealed that he is
happy, fit and cannot wait for the new season to get underway. "The weather
has been lovely and hot and you need to sweat in pre-season to get that
extra bit of weight off you that you put on in the summer!" said Noble. "The
lads have been training hard at lovely facilities. It's in the middle of
nowhere, but it's been enjoyable. "I think we have started really well. The
training has been hard but not stupidly so. The balls have been involved all
the time and it makes you work a bit harder with them. "It's been thoroughly
enjoyable. We have worked hard and also had some time off and played some
golf, so it's been enjoyable."
Another experience that was 'thoroughly enjoyable' for Noble was getting
married. "I got married a week after the Play-Off final. I went straight off
on my stag do to Dubai for a week then came back and got married. We had
great weather like we've had in Austria, so we got lucky. "I've thoroughly
enjoyed my summer. It was fantastic that we got promoted and I could really
enjoy myself. It was one of the best summer's I've had and I cannot wait to
get back into it now."
Noble is set to be involved in Saturday's opening pre-season match against
FK Austria Wien. To hear his exclusive thoughts ahead of that game, on West
Ham's Barclays Premier League challenge and watch his interview in full, log
in or subscribe to West Ham TV by clicking on the link below.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca pleased with pre-season start
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' positive approach to their pre-season
training camp
07.07.2012
Neil McDonald has hailed West Ham United's pre-season training camp in
Austria a success. The Hammers have been in the village of Bad Waltersdorf
since Monday, working hard on their fitness on the pitch and in both the gym
and swimming pool. West Ham will complete their stay in central Europe by
taking on 23-times Bundesliga champions FK Austria Wien in Vienna on
Saturday afternoon. With manager Sam Allardyce remaining in England to work
on prospective new arrivals, No2 McDonald has been in charge in Austria and
told whufc.com has been happy with the squad's start to the 2012/13
campaign.
Macca, it appears to have been a very productive week in perfect
surroundings in Austria?
NM - It's been great. We have had some good training sessions and they've
had plenty of the ball. They have worked on their fitness as well and done a
little bit of technical work, which is excellent. It's been fantastically
hot, but everybody has come through it reasonably well and we're all looking
forward to the game now just to finish the week off.
The players must have been pleased to see the ball so often during their
first few training sessions? It is all a far cry from when you were playing
in the 1980s!
NM - It is totally different from when I used to play, of course, but I
think the boys work even harder with the ball than they think they do.
That's the reason why we get them out and they enjoy it. It's great to see
them passing and moving and scoring a few goals as well, so it's been good
for them.
Have you been generally pleased with the level of fitness among the players?
NM - It's still very, very early. That is the first week done and we've
still got a lot to do. The boys have worked hard and we'll see if it pays
off in the game on Saturday.
Aside from the players, the staff have also worked extremely hard to ensure
the training camp has run smoothly. It is a huge logistical operation, isn't
it?
NM - That's part of our jobs, to make sure that when the players turn up
that everything is sorted for them. We did that all last year and it makes
it nice and comfortable and relaxed for the players. It gives them a chance
to concentrate on what they need to do and that is to play football and win
matches. That is what we have done in pre-season for them - we get out here
early it's not just a case of turning up and training. It is well
thought-out and I think the lads appreciate it.
The new signings appear to have integrated into the squad quickly. Would
that be fair?
NM - Yes. Mo [Diame] has slipped into things nice and easily. It's nice when
you sign a player who has Premier League experience before and he's been
fantastic. Jussi [Jaaskelainen] knows what the Premier League is all about
and he's been training with Hendo [Stephen Henderson], so there is good
competition for places in different positions. Whoever is going to get the
nod will deserve it.
Finally, we are taking on FK Austria Wien on Saturday. They have been in
pre-season training for a few weeks longer than us, so do you expect the
boys to have to work hard against such opposition?
NM - That's right. I think they are two or three weeks ahead of us so it'll
be hard work, but then it always is in the first game back. The majority of
the boys will play just the 45 minutes so hopefully it'll be the perfect end
to a perfect week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers heat up in Die Thermenregion
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have spent the week in Austria's thermal spa capital Bad
Waltersdorf
06.07.2012
West Ham United's players have a spring in their steps after spending a week
training in Austria's thermal spa capital of Bad Waltersdorf. The
picturesque village 75 miles south of Vienna has become synonymous with its
piping hot natural spring water, which attracts visitors from all over the
world to experience its healing properties. The Hammers were able to enjoy
the benefits of the spa during their free time, but the vast majority of the
week was given over to training in warm sunshine at the Thermenstadion
(Thermal Stadium) home of local club UC Bad Waltersdorf and the local
swimming pool. With outdoor sporting activities also high on the agenda, the
facilities used by assistant manager Neil McDonald and his squad were
outstanding and fit the pre-season bill perfectly - as they have done for
the likes of Arsenal, Middlesbrough, Borussia Dortmund, Werder Bremen,
Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Anzhi Makhachkala, Hertha Berlin and the Czech
Republic, New Zealand and Israel national teams in recent years.
Bad Waltersdorf tourism association chairman Gernot Deutsch told West Ham TV
how the region had literally struck gold while drilling for oil in the early
1970s.
"It is beautiful here and it is one of only two spa regions in Austria. We
have the Heiltherme public healing spa mainly used by elderly people and the
H2O spa which is a health spa aimed at kids and families. "Between these two
spas we have created a lot of hotels and a lot of sports facilities. The
biggest advantage is that everything is within walking distance, so you can
reach every part of the town easily."
With a population of around 2,000 people, Bad Waltersdorf is situated in the
south east of the Styria region, just a few miles from the borders with
Hungary and Slovenia. However, unlike most European tourist destinations,
the high season for holidaymakers is during the cooler months of the year,
when people warm up with a visit to the spa. "Bad Waltersdorf has around
2,000 inhabitants and we also have around 2,000 beds for our guests. It's a
small village and it's all about thermal water. "Before, it was a very poor
area - the poorest in Austria. People were waiting for some new industry to
come but it was just agriculture. "About 30 years ago, a big Austrian
company tried to drill for oil but all they found was hot water and the
region just blew up. It is great what happened. "Out of being a poor region
we are now one of the best tourism regions in Austria. We are very proud to
host people from all over the world - especially West Ham United. "The
summer time is the low season for us, so a few years ago we made a deal with
the local government to create the football stadium and now we have the
great possibility to host football clubs and it is a big advantage for us at
this time of the year."
Bad Waltersdorf may be small in terms of size, but the village certainly has
big-time sports facilities for the visiting clubs. Aside from the stadium
and two other training pitches, there are indoor and outdoor tennis courts,
a swimming pool and 18-hole golf course. "It is fantastic. We have
co-operation with International Football Camps Styria and they are doing a
great job. Across Styria they have created football camps and we have hosted
some of the best and biggest clubs in the world, as well as smaller clubs
from Austria. "We have perfect conditions for holding training camps and
this makes us very proud."
Now West Ham have visited Bad Waltersdorf, Deutsch issued a personal invite
to the Club's supporters to enjoy the same benefits by taking a holiday in
the area.
"It would be great for the fans to visit. Bad Waltersdorf is famous
throughout the world for welcoming the famous football clubs, but it also
should be known for being a health region and a great place to spend a
vacation. "It would be great if the fans come to see the spa and the
facilities and use the hot water because if they have better health, they
can support their team much better!"
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Dan ready to be the man
WHUFC.com
Dan Potts is keen to become a first-team regular for West Ham United as soon
as he can
06.07.2012
He might be just a few months past his 18th birthday, but Dan Potts has
ambitions on becoming a Barclays Premier League regular this season. The
teenager established himself as the Hammers' Under-18 captain, impressing
manager Sam Allardyce before being called into the first-team squad and
making his debut against Barnsley in December 2011. Then just 17, Potts made
four appearances in December and January, catching the eye of the coaching
staff and supporters alike with his poise, maturity and all-round ability.
Now, the left-back is setting himself the target of forcing his way into Big
Sam's plans on a weekly basis. "I've had my taste and that will stay with me
forever," he told whufc.com in an exclusive interview in Bad Waltersdorf.
"That was my dream and it'll stay with me forever. "I want to push for my
place and start. I don't want to be thought of as a squad player. I want to
be playing for West Ham United. I don't think it's a matter of age. I think
if you are good enough then you will play. "Obviously we were down in the
Championship last year and the Premier League is another step up in terms of
quality but that is where I want to play my football. "I am still developing
but I'm at the stage where, if I'm technically good enough, then I will
play. I'm going to keep working in the gym and during training sessions and
hopefully I'll get my chance."
The return of George McCartney on a permanent basis will give Potts plenty
of competition for the left-back berth, but the youngster has nothing but
praise for his positional rival. A Premier League player himself for the
majority of his career, Potts sees McCartney as a perfect person and player
to try and emulate. "George has had a great career and I'm glad he has
signed for us because he is a great role model for me. "I watched him play
last year and he was voted Players' Player of the Year and I thought he
fully deserved it. He's a very consistent player and has had a good career
and is an established left-back."
While he may have to wait for his Premier League opportunity, Potts is
relishing the opportunity to train alongside top-class players on a daily
basis. Out in Austria, he has been working as hard as anyone during the
pre-season training camp and now cannot wait for the matches to begin in the
shape of a meeting with FK Austria Wien on Saturday evening. "It's been a
great experience for me coming away with the boys. I've been used to
pre-season with the Academy and this is a big step up. It's a lot harder,
especially in temperatures like this. "I think everyone is in the same boat.
Everyone has had time off and has come back in and looked in good nick
during the sessions. Training has been a decent standard throughout and
we're all going to push on from here. "It's a big year for the Club and for
the whole squad in general and for me. Like every year, you want to come
back and prove yourself and start afresh. "The buzz is still there from
after we got promoted. Pre-season is hard work but you've got to do it
because it's part and parcel of being a footballer. "These players know what
it is all about because they are Premier League players and they want to
stay there."
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Boreham Wood set to face Premier League new boys West Ham United
Borehamwoodtimes.co.uk
2:40pm Friday 6th July 2012 in Sport
Boreham Wood will face Premier League opposition on Tuesday when they
entertain West Ham United. Wood are preparing themselves for a bumper
opening to their pre-season campaign at Meadow Park. Irons boss Sam
Allardyce rolls into town complete with his first team squad and a very
special piece of silverware.
This will be the Hammers' first match in England since their victory at
Wembley and they plan to parade their Championship play-off trophy for all
their fans to see.
Wood manager Ian Allinson said: "We're expecting a big crowd and a fine
family occasion. "We are grateful that Sam recognises the work that goes in
in grass roots football and this visit is to honour the signing of one of
our PASE products, Pelly Ruddock, by the Hammers last season. "To kick off
our pre-season against a newly-promoted Premier League side is a real
honour."
Allinson has been busy shaping his squad for the coming season, with talks
and negotiations running since the end of April. Wood finished a commendable
eighth in the Blue Square Bet South League last year which was just outside
the play-offs. It was a season plagued by injuries to key players and there
is a firm belief that a play-off place is not out of the question in the
coming campaign. Strikers Elliot Buchanan and Donovan Simmonds are two of
Allinson's recent additions, arriving from Newport County and Dover Athletic
respectively. They will line up against the likes of Ricardo Vaz Te, Carlton
Cole, Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan. New signings Jussi Jaaskelainen and
Mohamed Diame could also feature. Tickets for the game which starts at
7.30pm are on sale via the Boreham Wood FC website.
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Jussi to battle for vacant No.1 shirt at West Ham
London 24
Nathaniel John, West Ham Correspondent
Friday, July 6, 2012
9:00 AM
New West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen is delighted to be working with Sam
Allardyce again after joining the Hammers on a free transfer. The
37-year-old put pen to paper on a one-year deal with an option of an
additional year last month, but only officially joined the club on Sunday
when his deal with Bolton Wanderers expired. "I'm absolutely delighted to be
here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons,"
he said. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham
were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big
Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom
staff are. "They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here."
Following the departure of Rob Green to Queens Park Rangers, the West Ham
No.1 jersey is up for grabs, and Jaaskelainen is keen to stake his claim on
the shirt, under some stiff competition from fellow new arrival Stephen
Henderson. However, having battled with Adam Bogdan last season at Bolton
for the same prize, Jaaskelainen is determined to re-establish himself as
one of the best keepers in the Premier League. "At the start of pre-season,
all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and
get the No.1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the
years," he said. Having made the move down to the capital, Jaaskelainen is
looking forward to seeing what London life has to offer, but admits that his
job will always come first. "The main focus is playing for West Ham and to
work hard for this football club and if I get to see London then that's
good, but it's not my main focus," he added. "Pre-season is a little bit
different this time because I didn't play any games this year, so all
off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again.
"Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's pre-season training camp is coming to a close in Bad
Waltersdorf
06.07.2012
West Ham United's pre-season training camp in south east Austria may be
approaching it's conclusion, but that does not mean the hard work has
stopped. After breakfast, the Hammers were back on the training pitch in Bad
Waltersdorf on Friday morning and will finish the day with a session in the
gym in the late afternoon.
After the players had loosened up individually in the gym this morning, the
group headed on to the grass for a range of drills before joining first-team
coach Wally Downes for a competitive crossing and finishing session. With
the staff keeping score, the players went through a succession of drills
aimed at improving their crossing, movement in the penalty area, shooting
and heading. With Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson eager to impress
and keep their team-mates at bay, the scene was set for a battle in the
sunshine.
Like all professional sportsmen, the players were desperate to show what
they could do inside the penalty area. First, a pass-and-move drill saw all
the outfield players take turns at crossing and finishing before Downes
split them into smaller groups for two further exercises. Left-footers Matt
Taylor, George McCartney and Dan Potts delivered crosses from their usual
flank, while Mark Noble, Jordan Spence and James Tomkins swung balls in from
the right. Inside the penalty area, the attacking midfielders, forwards and
centre-backs took turns to get on the end of the crosses. After half-an-hour
of intense action, Ricardo Vaz Te came out on top with seven goals to his
name, edging out Noble, Winston Reid and youngster Sebastian Lletget. With
that, it was time for the players to stretch-off and head for the ice baths
before jumping on to their mountain bikes for the ride back up the hill to
the team hotel.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble loving it all
WHUFC.com
Newly-married Mark Noble is enjoying life on and off the football pitch
06.07.2012
Mark Noble has plenty of reasons to be happy. West Ham United's No16 ended
last season by helping the Club to gain promotion to the Barclays Premier
League and being voted Hammer of the Year for the first time. Over the
summer, Noble also became a husband, marrying childhood sweetheart Carly in
a ceremony in central London. Speaking to West Ham TV at the Club's
pre-season training camp in Austria, the midfielder revealed that he is
happy, fit and cannot wait for the new season to get underway. "The weather
has been lovely and hot and you need to sweat in pre-season to get that
extra bit of weight off you that you put on in the summer!" said Noble. "The
lads have been training hard at lovely facilities. It's in the middle of
nowhere, but it's been enjoyable. "I think we have started really well. The
training has been hard but not stupidly so. The balls have been involved all
the time and it makes you work a bit harder with them. "It's been thoroughly
enjoyable. We have worked hard and also had some time off and played some
golf, so it's been enjoyable."
Another experience that was 'thoroughly enjoyable' for Noble was getting
married. "I got married a week after the Play-Off final. I went straight off
on my stag do to Dubai for a week then came back and got married. We had
great weather like we've had in Austria, so we got lucky. "I've thoroughly
enjoyed my summer. It was fantastic that we got promoted and I could really
enjoy myself. It was one of the best summer's I've had and I cannot wait to
get back into it now."
Noble is set to be involved in Saturday's opening pre-season match against
FK Austria Wien. To hear his exclusive thoughts ahead of that game, on West
Ham's Barclays Premier League challenge and watch his interview in full, log
in or subscribe to West Ham TV by clicking on the link below.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca pleased with pre-season start
WHUFC.com
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' positive approach to their pre-season
training camp
07.07.2012
Neil McDonald has hailed West Ham United's pre-season training camp in
Austria a success. The Hammers have been in the village of Bad Waltersdorf
since Monday, working hard on their fitness on the pitch and in both the gym
and swimming pool. West Ham will complete their stay in central Europe by
taking on 23-times Bundesliga champions FK Austria Wien in Vienna on
Saturday afternoon. With manager Sam Allardyce remaining in England to work
on prospective new arrivals, No2 McDonald has been in charge in Austria and
told whufc.com has been happy with the squad's start to the 2012/13
campaign.
Macca, it appears to have been a very productive week in perfect
surroundings in Austria?
NM - It's been great. We have had some good training sessions and they've
had plenty of the ball. They have worked on their fitness as well and done a
little bit of technical work, which is excellent. It's been fantastically
hot, but everybody has come through it reasonably well and we're all looking
forward to the game now just to finish the week off.
The players must have been pleased to see the ball so often during their
first few training sessions? It is all a far cry from when you were playing
in the 1980s!
NM - It is totally different from when I used to play, of course, but I
think the boys work even harder with the ball than they think they do.
That's the reason why we get them out and they enjoy it. It's great to see
them passing and moving and scoring a few goals as well, so it's been good
for them.
Have you been generally pleased with the level of fitness among the players?
NM - It's still very, very early. That is the first week done and we've
still got a lot to do. The boys have worked hard and we'll see if it pays
off in the game on Saturday.
Aside from the players, the staff have also worked extremely hard to ensure
the training camp has run smoothly. It is a huge logistical operation, isn't
it?
NM - That's part of our jobs, to make sure that when the players turn up
that everything is sorted for them. We did that all last year and it makes
it nice and comfortable and relaxed for the players. It gives them a chance
to concentrate on what they need to do and that is to play football and win
matches. That is what we have done in pre-season for them - we get out here
early it's not just a case of turning up and training. It is well
thought-out and I think the lads appreciate it.
The new signings appear to have integrated into the squad quickly. Would
that be fair?
NM - Yes. Mo [Diame] has slipped into things nice and easily. It's nice when
you sign a player who has Premier League experience before and he's been
fantastic. Jussi [Jaaskelainen] knows what the Premier League is all about
and he's been training with Hendo [Stephen Henderson], so there is good
competition for places in different positions. Whoever is going to get the
nod will deserve it.
Finally, we are taking on FK Austria Wien on Saturday. They have been in
pre-season training for a few weeks longer than us, so do you expect the
boys to have to work hard against such opposition?
NM - That's right. I think they are two or three weeks ahead of us so it'll
be hard work, but then it always is in the first game back. The majority of
the boys will play just the 45 minutes so hopefully it'll be the perfect end
to a perfect week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers heat up in Die Thermenregion
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have spent the week in Austria's thermal spa capital Bad
Waltersdorf
06.07.2012
West Ham United's players have a spring in their steps after spending a week
training in Austria's thermal spa capital of Bad Waltersdorf. The
picturesque village 75 miles south of Vienna has become synonymous with its
piping hot natural spring water, which attracts visitors from all over the
world to experience its healing properties. The Hammers were able to enjoy
the benefits of the spa during their free time, but the vast majority of the
week was given over to training in warm sunshine at the Thermenstadion
(Thermal Stadium) home of local club UC Bad Waltersdorf and the local
swimming pool. With outdoor sporting activities also high on the agenda, the
facilities used by assistant manager Neil McDonald and his squad were
outstanding and fit the pre-season bill perfectly - as they have done for
the likes of Arsenal, Middlesbrough, Borussia Dortmund, Werder Bremen,
Sanfrecce Hiroshima, Anzhi Makhachkala, Hertha Berlin and the Czech
Republic, New Zealand and Israel national teams in recent years.
Bad Waltersdorf tourism association chairman Gernot Deutsch told West Ham TV
how the region had literally struck gold while drilling for oil in the early
1970s.
"It is beautiful here and it is one of only two spa regions in Austria. We
have the Heiltherme public healing spa mainly used by elderly people and the
H2O spa which is a health spa aimed at kids and families. "Between these two
spas we have created a lot of hotels and a lot of sports facilities. The
biggest advantage is that everything is within walking distance, so you can
reach every part of the town easily."
With a population of around 2,000 people, Bad Waltersdorf is situated in the
south east of the Styria region, just a few miles from the borders with
Hungary and Slovenia. However, unlike most European tourist destinations,
the high season for holidaymakers is during the cooler months of the year,
when people warm up with a visit to the spa. "Bad Waltersdorf has around
2,000 inhabitants and we also have around 2,000 beds for our guests. It's a
small village and it's all about thermal water. "Before, it was a very poor
area - the poorest in Austria. People were waiting for some new industry to
come but it was just agriculture. "About 30 years ago, a big Austrian
company tried to drill for oil but all they found was hot water and the
region just blew up. It is great what happened. "Out of being a poor region
we are now one of the best tourism regions in Austria. We are very proud to
host people from all over the world - especially West Ham United. "The
summer time is the low season for us, so a few years ago we made a deal with
the local government to create the football stadium and now we have the
great possibility to host football clubs and it is a big advantage for us at
this time of the year."
Bad Waltersdorf may be small in terms of size, but the village certainly has
big-time sports facilities for the visiting clubs. Aside from the stadium
and two other training pitches, there are indoor and outdoor tennis courts,
a swimming pool and 18-hole golf course. "It is fantastic. We have
co-operation with International Football Camps Styria and they are doing a
great job. Across Styria they have created football camps and we have hosted
some of the best and biggest clubs in the world, as well as smaller clubs
from Austria. "We have perfect conditions for holding training camps and
this makes us very proud."
Now West Ham have visited Bad Waltersdorf, Deutsch issued a personal invite
to the Club's supporters to enjoy the same benefits by taking a holiday in
the area.
"It would be great for the fans to visit. Bad Waltersdorf is famous
throughout the world for welcoming the famous football clubs, but it also
should be known for being a health region and a great place to spend a
vacation. "It would be great if the fans come to see the spa and the
facilities and use the hot water because if they have better health, they
can support their team much better!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dan ready to be the man
WHUFC.com
Dan Potts is keen to become a first-team regular for West Ham United as soon
as he can
06.07.2012
He might be just a few months past his 18th birthday, but Dan Potts has
ambitions on becoming a Barclays Premier League regular this season. The
teenager established himself as the Hammers' Under-18 captain, impressing
manager Sam Allardyce before being called into the first-team squad and
making his debut against Barnsley in December 2011. Then just 17, Potts made
four appearances in December and January, catching the eye of the coaching
staff and supporters alike with his poise, maturity and all-round ability.
Now, the left-back is setting himself the target of forcing his way into Big
Sam's plans on a weekly basis. "I've had my taste and that will stay with me
forever," he told whufc.com in an exclusive interview in Bad Waltersdorf.
"That was my dream and it'll stay with me forever. "I want to push for my
place and start. I don't want to be thought of as a squad player. I want to
be playing for West Ham United. I don't think it's a matter of age. I think
if you are good enough then you will play. "Obviously we were down in the
Championship last year and the Premier League is another step up in terms of
quality but that is where I want to play my football. "I am still developing
but I'm at the stage where, if I'm technically good enough, then I will
play. I'm going to keep working in the gym and during training sessions and
hopefully I'll get my chance."
The return of George McCartney on a permanent basis will give Potts plenty
of competition for the left-back berth, but the youngster has nothing but
praise for his positional rival. A Premier League player himself for the
majority of his career, Potts sees McCartney as a perfect person and player
to try and emulate. "George has had a great career and I'm glad he has
signed for us because he is a great role model for me. "I watched him play
last year and he was voted Players' Player of the Year and I thought he
fully deserved it. He's a very consistent player and has had a good career
and is an established left-back."
While he may have to wait for his Premier League opportunity, Potts is
relishing the opportunity to train alongside top-class players on a daily
basis. Out in Austria, he has been working as hard as anyone during the
pre-season training camp and now cannot wait for the matches to begin in the
shape of a meeting with FK Austria Wien on Saturday evening. "It's been a
great experience for me coming away with the boys. I've been used to
pre-season with the Academy and this is a big step up. It's a lot harder,
especially in temperatures like this. "I think everyone is in the same boat.
Everyone has had time off and has come back in and looked in good nick
during the sessions. Training has been a decent standard throughout and
we're all going to push on from here. "It's a big year for the Club and for
the whole squad in general and for me. Like every year, you want to come
back and prove yourself and start afresh. "The buzz is still there from
after we got promoted. Pre-season is hard work but you've got to do it
because it's part and parcel of being a footballer. "These players know what
it is all about because they are Premier League players and they want to
stay there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Boreham Wood set to face Premier League new boys West Ham United
Borehamwoodtimes.co.uk
2:40pm Friday 6th July 2012 in Sport
Boreham Wood will face Premier League opposition on Tuesday when they
entertain West Ham United. Wood are preparing themselves for a bumper
opening to their pre-season campaign at Meadow Park. Irons boss Sam
Allardyce rolls into town complete with his first team squad and a very
special piece of silverware.
This will be the Hammers' first match in England since their victory at
Wembley and they plan to parade their Championship play-off trophy for all
their fans to see.
Wood manager Ian Allinson said: "We're expecting a big crowd and a fine
family occasion. "We are grateful that Sam recognises the work that goes in
in grass roots football and this visit is to honour the signing of one of
our PASE products, Pelly Ruddock, by the Hammers last season. "To kick off
our pre-season against a newly-promoted Premier League side is a real
honour."
Allinson has been busy shaping his squad for the coming season, with talks
and negotiations running since the end of April. Wood finished a commendable
eighth in the Blue Square Bet South League last year which was just outside
the play-offs. It was a season plagued by injuries to key players and there
is a firm belief that a play-off place is not out of the question in the
coming campaign. Strikers Elliot Buchanan and Donovan Simmonds are two of
Allinson's recent additions, arriving from Newport County and Dover Athletic
respectively. They will line up against the likes of Ricardo Vaz Te, Carlton
Cole, Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan. New signings Jussi Jaaskelainen and
Mohamed Diame could also feature. Tickets for the game which starts at
7.30pm are on sale via the Boreham Wood FC website.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jussi to battle for vacant No.1 shirt at West Ham
London 24
Nathaniel John, West Ham Correspondent
Friday, July 6, 2012
9:00 AM
New West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen is delighted to be working with Sam
Allardyce again after joining the Hammers on a free transfer. The
37-year-old put pen to paper on a one-year deal with an option of an
additional year last month, but only officially joined the club on Sunday
when his deal with Bolton Wanderers expired. "I'm absolutely delighted to be
here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons,"
he said. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham
were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big
Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom
staff are. "They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here."
Following the departure of Rob Green to Queens Park Rangers, the West Ham
No.1 jersey is up for grabs, and Jaaskelainen is keen to stake his claim on
the shirt, under some stiff competition from fellow new arrival Stephen
Henderson. However, having battled with Adam Bogdan last season at Bolton
for the same prize, Jaaskelainen is determined to re-establish himself as
one of the best keepers in the Premier League. "At the start of pre-season,
all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and
get the No.1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the
years," he said. Having made the move down to the capital, Jaaskelainen is
looking forward to seeing what London life has to offer, but admits that his
job will always come first. "The main focus is playing for West Ham and to
work hard for this football club and if I get to see London then that's
good, but it's not my main focus," he added. "Pre-season is a little bit
different this time because I didn't play any games this year, so all
off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again.
"Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Friday, July 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th July 2012
Fixture changes confirmed
Nine of West Ham United's opening fixtures have been moved to a different
kick-off time or date
05.07.2012
Nine of West Ham United's opening Barclays Premier League fixtures have had
their kick-off time or date moved. The Hammers' first away game of the
season at Swansea City on 25 August has been moved to a 12.45pm kick off, as
have the home games with Fulham and Norwich City on 1 September and 15
September respectively.
The away match at Queens Park Rangers has been moved to Monday 1 October,
while the home game with Stoke City is also moved to a Monday on 19
November. Both games kick off at 8pm.
The two huge home games against Arsenal on Saturday 6 October and Manchester
City on Saturday 3 November will both now kick off at 5.30pm. The away games
with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United will now be played on Sunday 25
November at 4pm and Wednesday 28 November at 8pm respectively due to their
European fixtures.
Fans should also be aware that the away fixture with Newcastle United on
Saturday 10 November and the home game with Liverpool on Saturday 8 December
may be subject to change due to those two sides also being involved in
European competition that week. whufc.com will bring you further updates
once they are available.
Remember, a Season Ticket is the cheapest way to guarantee your seat for
every single home game at the Boleyn Ground this season. With prices
starting at just £600 for adults and £190 for Under-16s, can you afford to
miss out? Click here to get yours today.
Summary of amended fixtures covering the period to 30 November:
Date Fixture Time
Saturday 25 August Swansea City v West Ham United 12:45pm
Saturday 1 September West Ham United v Fulham 12:45pm
Saturday 15 September Norwich City v West Ham United 12:45pm
Monday 1 October QPR v West Ham United 8:00pm
Saturday 6 October West Ham United v Arsenal 5:30pm
Saturday 3 November West Ham United v Manchester City 5:30pm
Monday 19 November West Ham United v Stoke City 8:00pm
Sunday 25 November Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United 4:00pm
Wednesday 28 November Manchester United v West Ham United 8:
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United in Austria - Thursday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers were back in the swimming pool as the sun came up on Thursday
morning
05.07.2012
West Ham United began the fourth day of their pre-season training camp in
Austria with another early-morning trip to the pool. After Wednesday's water
polo tournament, it was time for some old-fashioned swimming, with each
player required to complete a number of lengths of the pool - which had
opened specially at 6.45am to receive the Hammers. As you might have
expected, some players were more natural in the water than others, with Mark
Noble catching the eye with his range of strokes and strong style. Others,
who shall remain nameless, were slightly slower completing their quota!
With the coaching staff encouraging them on, the group completed their
lengths before drying off and riding their mountain bikes back to the team
hotel for breakfast. There, the omelette chef was put to work again as he
has been every morning of the team's stay so far! The day continued with a
morning training session on the pitch, where the players worked exceedingly
hard during a 90-minute session in hot sunshine. An activation session and
warm-up was followed by some three-quarter pace running and recovery and
some more individual drills. In between, the players ensured they stayed
hydrated and maintained good circulation by drinking plenty of water,
covering their heads in wet towels and dipping their arms and heads in bowls
of iced water.
Assistant manager Neil McDonald and first-team coach Wally Downes then took
groups of players for keep-ball sessions before the squad came together for
a 20-minute game between the two penalty areas, with Jussi Jaaskelainen and
Stephen Henderson lining up in goal. Earlier, the two goalkeepers worked
with coach Martyn Margetson on a host of innovative handling and agility
drills. After a well-deserved afternoon break, the players will return for a
second football session in the evening. The final session is set to be
attended by a group of local schoolchildren. *Keep a close eye on whufc.com
and the Club's social media outlets for updates throughout the day and the
rest of the week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive: Montano rejects new deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Cristian Montano looks set to leave West Ham imminently after rejecting a
new contract offer. The 20-year-old forward is yet to feature for West Ham's
first team despite having been on the fringes for at least two seasons - and
he is now almost certainly unlikely to do so having rejected a new deal.
KUMB understands that Montano has rejected the offer in order to seek a move
abroad, having become disillusioned with life at West Ham with whom he
signed a new one-year deal last summer.
Speaking this time last year, the Columbian-born attacker's main ambition
was to break into Sam Allardyce's first team plans. "I'm very proud of this
contract and I'm happy with myself as well," he said at the time. "I have
got my second contract which is the most important thing. Hopefully I can
keep going from here and make the next step, which is to make my first-team
debut and hopefully become established. I want to prove myself. "I'm going
to keep working hard and hopefully show the new manager that I can play and
do well. We're all in the same boat - a new manager and new staff - so we've
all got to prove ourselves again."
However having failed to do so during the 2011/12 campaign, Montano's dream
of making that breakthrough appears to be over following this latest news.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Montano: don't call me greedy
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Cristian Montano has explained his decision to leave West Ham, whilst
insisting that money is not an issue. After KUMB.com exclusively revealed
earlier this afternoon that the 20-year-old striker had rejected United's
offer of a new one-year contract extention, he denied that his decision was
motivated by finacial terms. Speaking via his Twitter account this evening,
Montano - who failed to make a single first team appearance for the Hammers
- rejected suggestions that his main motivation for rejecting the club's
offer was financially related. "Why does everyone always think that money is
always the case in football?", he said. "I love the game [and it's] nothing
to do with me being greedy. "For all who want to know what is happening, I
was unable to agree a new contract with my boyhood club, West Ham. Totally
gutted."
Montano - who compared himself to Arsenal's Robin Van Persie after receiving
some abusive comments from Twitter users following KUMB's earlier revelation
- is hoping to move abroad having spent the last nine years with West Ham.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel raring to go
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Teenage midfielder Ravel Morrison says that he is finally ready to fulfil
his untapped potential. The 19-year-old England youth international had made
just one appearance for West Ham since signing in a cut-price deal from
Manchester United last January, when he replaced Jack Collison as an 81st
minute substitute in the 1-1 draw at Leeds back in March. Since moving to
London from the North West, Morrison - whose signing was sanctioned by
co-chairman David Sullivan - has been dogged by rumours of no-shows at
training and bust-ups with fellow players, whilst he was also fined by the
FA for comments made on a social network. Those issues followed a string of
problems at his former club which led to his eventual sale and one former
Reds player stating privately that, "we did a good job at Manchester United
just keeping him out of prison".
However it looks as if those problems might finally be a thing of the past
with Morrison appraently having realised that it is time to knuckle down if
he is to repay the faith shown in him by West Ham and enjoy a career as a
professional footballer. Having flown out to Austria with the rest of the
West Ham squad last weekend, Morrison is understood to have shown a marked
improvement in his attitude during the past few days. Speaking this morning,
he told followers of his Twitter account that he is both "focused and ready"
to force his way into Sam Allardyce's first team plans. "I am working very
hard this pre-season," he said, adding "I need to play this season."
Cited as being as talented as Paul Gascoigne by none other than Sir Trevor
Brooking, Morrison has played at international level for England's under
16s, under 17s and under 18s. Upon his arrival at the Boleyn Ground, Sam
Allardyce vowed to do his best to help the youngster turn his fortunes
around. "It's not unusual for me, taking the odd difficult one on but I like
high-class talent at a football club if you can find it," he said. "If it
comes with a little bit of trouble, then I think you can cope.
"If the lad's doing it on the field then you help him as best you can off
the field to make sure he becomes a well-rounded, decent human being and,
hopefully, a decent footballer. "By Alex Ferguson's own words, Ravel is one
of the best he's ever had at that age. When Sir Alex tells you something
like that then you know [he's a great prospect]."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Seven live games for Irons
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be featuring live on TV seven times in the first half of the
new 2012/13 Premier League season. United's matches against Swansea, Fulham,
Norwich, QPR and Stoke will all be broadcast live by Sky Sports between
August and November as Sam Allarcyde's side look forward to their first
season back in the top flight.
Additionally, ESPN will be broadcasting the matches against Arsenal and
reigning Champions Manchester City live.
Full details as follows:
Swansea (a): August 25th, 12.45pm.
Fulham (h): September 1st, 12.45pm
Norwich (a): September 15th, 12.45pm
QPR (a): October 1st, 8pm
Arsenal (h): October 6th, 5.30pm
Man City (h): November 3rd, 5.30pm
Stoke (h): November 19th, 8pm
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Somer-Stech
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Former West Ham goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a two-year contract with
Yeovil Town. The 22-year-old shot stopper was released by West Ham last week
but like fellow youngster Freddie Sears, who signed a three-year contract at
Colchester this week, Stech has wasted little time in finding himself a new
club. The 6'3" former youth international, who joined West Ham as a
16-year-old having been signed on the advice of Ludo Miklosko spent a month
on loan at Huish Park between October and November of last year, making five
appearances for the League One club. Only last summer Stech still harboured
high hopes of eventually becoming West Ham's number one.
Speaking in an interview with Czech website Pravo, recorded following West
Ham's relegation from the Premier League, he said:"I am full of optimism.
For me it's advantageous that we're not among the elite as I have a better
chance. "In the reserve games I've played well and pushed [Rob] Green in
training. He had an operation and problems plagued him after the treatment
of pain. It was almost my time, but I just didn't get a chance."
However his chances were to be limited even further during the campaign as
the result of a contractual issue that is thought to have prevented him from
being made available for selection. It was rumoured that after five first
team outings, Stech's former club Sparta would be due an additional payment
of £750,000 - something that West Ham were not prepared to pay.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Are We Signing Jamie Mackie?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The Evening Standard has today run a story that West Ham are considering a
£1m bid for QPR's 26 year old, Scottish forward, Jamie Mackie. According to
the report, Mackie scored a creditable 16 goals in the last campaign, but
has fell further down the Rangers pecking order with recent arrival of Andy
Johnson from Fulham. Southampton are also allegedly monitoring the player's
availability.
I am sure that Jamie Mackie is a good professional, and can do a decent job
for the club, but is he the type of high profile player that the fans are
expecting us to sign ahead of this new PL season? Of course, it could just
be a rehash of an old story from last summer, when it was reported that we
enquired about his availability ahead of last season's Championship
campaign. But some will see this as a further indication that the board have
not learnt the lessons of 2010-11 and are attempting to survive in the PL on
the cheap. We shall just have wait and see what transpires on this one.
Anyway, what do you think of the possible signing of Jamie Mackie? Is it the
media engaging in wild speculation, reheating stone cold stories, or does it
have a all too real sense of probability? As the philosopher Vico said 'the
basis of all truth is probability.' I wonder if he was a Hammers supporter.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Christian Montano to Leave West Ham!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
It has been announced that Christian Montano has rejected the offer of a
further one year contract with the club. The pacy and skillful Columbian
forward signed a one year contract extension last summer and his subsequent
public statements were full of confidence that he would make his debut in
the forthcoming season. Indeed, things looked very promising in the
pre-season, as Montano featured in a number of West Ham's matches, looking
sharp, skillful and effective on the ball.
Yet, that was as far as Montano's season went. He fell out of Sam
Allardyce's plans on the cusp of the new season and was then farmed out in a
perpetual succession of loans deals to lower league clubs. Even when Matt
Taylor was injured or suspended and West Ham were crying out for some extra
width, particularly on the left flank, Montano never got an opportunity to
show what he could do. And that was pretty tough on the youngster and
obviously led to him concluding that his chance was never going to come.
Some will argue that Sam Allardyce, and the coaches, had run the rule over
Montano, in pre-season, and judged that he was not ready for the first team.
Perhaps, but when you are in a situation when options are limited, why not
give youth a chance. Montano does not lack confidence (apparently he has
recently compared himself to Van Persie on his Twitter account) and it is
possible that he would have risen to the occasion and made a positive impact
against some decidedly average Championship outfits. Any teenager with the
nerve to take the ball off the great Di Canio's boot to score a goal has to
have something about him, surely?
Unfortunately, this is what happens when youth is not given its chance.
Frustration and negativity sets in and youngsters start looking around at
other options. Why did we not play him against Aldershot in the League Cup
or Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup? At least that would have given him a
chance, a platform to perform. If the youngster had done badly then it would
have reinforced the point that he was not ready and needed to keep working
at his game. Now it looks like we are to lose a promising forward and none
of us are any the wiser if he could have made a positive impact. Of course,
it could be that Allardyce and his coaches were right, but it is galling
that the issue was not tested in some pretty meaningless cup matches last
season.
Montano has said that the decision not to sign again was not about money, in
that case it must be about a lack of first team opportunity. So, we lose
Montano and at the same time we are trialing a 35 year old, who will
potentially take up a place in the squad and block the path of youngsters in
to the first team. The worry is that this not just a one-off, but a new Mode
of operation at the club. We may well survive the loss of Montano, but what
about if it is Hall, Voce, Turgott or Elliott Lee next time.
The famed 'West Ham Way' is not just about attractive, passing football, it
is also about developing and blooding our own young players. Or is that
deluded or something to be sacrificed on the alter of pragmatism and
results? I want to see the likes of Hall get more playing time this coming
season, and the use of the 7 man substitutes bench and cup matches to help
achieve it. Yes, I know youngsters need to prove themselves and there needs
to be a balance between youth and experience, but the truth is that
outstanding prospects like Robert Hall have the ability and are ready, all
they need is the opportunity. What did Napoleon say, 'talent is nothing
without opportunity.' Hall needs to be tested and challenged and that can
only come via first team football.
I have been largely supportive of Sam Allardyce, even during the disastrous
month of March, when far too many draws killed off our automatic promotion
aspirations. I am prepared to accept a tactical 'horses for courses'
approach, to grind out results against the top six teams, as long as we turn
on the style whenever we can. I like his keep it tight and counter-attack
approach away from home, it delivered both results and entertainment last
season. And I think that it will make us hard to beat on our travels this
season. But I draw a line in the sand at the club blocking the pathways to
the first team and letting the fruit of the Academy whither and die on the
vine. And I know that a lot of other Hammers fans feel exactly the same.
Sam Allardyce's job is to establish West Ham back in the PL and he is the
man to do it. He has my support, for whatever that is worth. But youth
progression needs to remain a key factor in his strategy, especially from
the bench and in the cup matches. Is that unreasonable? Personally I do not
think so, but no doubt others will disagree.
Hall, Potts, Moncur and Elliott Lee are some of the names that need to
figure next season. Will they? Hopefully, and especially if we get off to a
good start and at the very least manage to stay clear of the relegation
danger zone. While the two cup competitions offer obvious opportunities to
give them more valuable first team experience.
SJ.Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Nine of West Ham United's opening fixtures have been moved to a different
kick-off time or date
05.07.2012
Nine of West Ham United's opening Barclays Premier League fixtures have had
their kick-off time or date moved. The Hammers' first away game of the
season at Swansea City on 25 August has been moved to a 12.45pm kick off, as
have the home games with Fulham and Norwich City on 1 September and 15
September respectively.
The away match at Queens Park Rangers has been moved to Monday 1 October,
while the home game with Stoke City is also moved to a Monday on 19
November. Both games kick off at 8pm.
The two huge home games against Arsenal on Saturday 6 October and Manchester
City on Saturday 3 November will both now kick off at 5.30pm. The away games
with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United will now be played on Sunday 25
November at 4pm and Wednesday 28 November at 8pm respectively due to their
European fixtures.
Fans should also be aware that the away fixture with Newcastle United on
Saturday 10 November and the home game with Liverpool on Saturday 8 December
may be subject to change due to those two sides also being involved in
European competition that week. whufc.com will bring you further updates
once they are available.
Remember, a Season Ticket is the cheapest way to guarantee your seat for
every single home game at the Boleyn Ground this season. With prices
starting at just £600 for adults and £190 for Under-16s, can you afford to
miss out? Click here to get yours today.
Summary of amended fixtures covering the period to 30 November:
Date Fixture Time
Saturday 25 August Swansea City v West Ham United 12:45pm
Saturday 1 September West Ham United v Fulham 12:45pm
Saturday 15 September Norwich City v West Ham United 12:45pm
Monday 1 October QPR v West Ham United 8:00pm
Saturday 6 October West Ham United v Arsenal 5:30pm
Saturday 3 November West Ham United v Manchester City 5:30pm
Monday 19 November West Ham United v Stoke City 8:00pm
Sunday 25 November Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United 4:00pm
Wednesday 28 November Manchester United v West Ham United 8:
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United in Austria - Thursday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers were back in the swimming pool as the sun came up on Thursday
morning
05.07.2012
West Ham United began the fourth day of their pre-season training camp in
Austria with another early-morning trip to the pool. After Wednesday's water
polo tournament, it was time for some old-fashioned swimming, with each
player required to complete a number of lengths of the pool - which had
opened specially at 6.45am to receive the Hammers. As you might have
expected, some players were more natural in the water than others, with Mark
Noble catching the eye with his range of strokes and strong style. Others,
who shall remain nameless, were slightly slower completing their quota!
With the coaching staff encouraging them on, the group completed their
lengths before drying off and riding their mountain bikes back to the team
hotel for breakfast. There, the omelette chef was put to work again as he
has been every morning of the team's stay so far! The day continued with a
morning training session on the pitch, where the players worked exceedingly
hard during a 90-minute session in hot sunshine. An activation session and
warm-up was followed by some three-quarter pace running and recovery and
some more individual drills. In between, the players ensured they stayed
hydrated and maintained good circulation by drinking plenty of water,
covering their heads in wet towels and dipping their arms and heads in bowls
of iced water.
Assistant manager Neil McDonald and first-team coach Wally Downes then took
groups of players for keep-ball sessions before the squad came together for
a 20-minute game between the two penalty areas, with Jussi Jaaskelainen and
Stephen Henderson lining up in goal. Earlier, the two goalkeepers worked
with coach Martyn Margetson on a host of innovative handling and agility
drills. After a well-deserved afternoon break, the players will return for a
second football session in the evening. The final session is set to be
attended by a group of local schoolchildren. *Keep a close eye on whufc.com
and the Club's social media outlets for updates throughout the day and the
rest of the week.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Exclusive: Montano rejects new deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Cristian Montano looks set to leave West Ham imminently after rejecting a
new contract offer. The 20-year-old forward is yet to feature for West Ham's
first team despite having been on the fringes for at least two seasons - and
he is now almost certainly unlikely to do so having rejected a new deal.
KUMB understands that Montano has rejected the offer in order to seek a move
abroad, having become disillusioned with life at West Ham with whom he
signed a new one-year deal last summer.
Speaking this time last year, the Columbian-born attacker's main ambition
was to break into Sam Allardyce's first team plans. "I'm very proud of this
contract and I'm happy with myself as well," he said at the time. "I have
got my second contract which is the most important thing. Hopefully I can
keep going from here and make the next step, which is to make my first-team
debut and hopefully become established. I want to prove myself. "I'm going
to keep working hard and hopefully show the new manager that I can play and
do well. We're all in the same boat - a new manager and new staff - so we've
all got to prove ourselves again."
However having failed to do so during the 2011/12 campaign, Montano's dream
of making that breakthrough appears to be over following this latest news.
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Montano: don't call me greedy
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Cristian Montano has explained his decision to leave West Ham, whilst
insisting that money is not an issue. After KUMB.com exclusively revealed
earlier this afternoon that the 20-year-old striker had rejected United's
offer of a new one-year contract extention, he denied that his decision was
motivated by finacial terms. Speaking via his Twitter account this evening,
Montano - who failed to make a single first team appearance for the Hammers
- rejected suggestions that his main motivation for rejecting the club's
offer was financially related. "Why does everyone always think that money is
always the case in football?", he said. "I love the game [and it's] nothing
to do with me being greedy. "For all who want to know what is happening, I
was unable to agree a new contract with my boyhood club, West Ham. Totally
gutted."
Montano - who compared himself to Arsenal's Robin Van Persie after receiving
some abusive comments from Twitter users following KUMB's earlier revelation
- is hoping to move abroad having spent the last nine years with West Ham.
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Ravel raring to go
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Teenage midfielder Ravel Morrison says that he is finally ready to fulfil
his untapped potential. The 19-year-old England youth international had made
just one appearance for West Ham since signing in a cut-price deal from
Manchester United last January, when he replaced Jack Collison as an 81st
minute substitute in the 1-1 draw at Leeds back in March. Since moving to
London from the North West, Morrison - whose signing was sanctioned by
co-chairman David Sullivan - has been dogged by rumours of no-shows at
training and bust-ups with fellow players, whilst he was also fined by the
FA for comments made on a social network. Those issues followed a string of
problems at his former club which led to his eventual sale and one former
Reds player stating privately that, "we did a good job at Manchester United
just keeping him out of prison".
However it looks as if those problems might finally be a thing of the past
with Morrison appraently having realised that it is time to knuckle down if
he is to repay the faith shown in him by West Ham and enjoy a career as a
professional footballer. Having flown out to Austria with the rest of the
West Ham squad last weekend, Morrison is understood to have shown a marked
improvement in his attitude during the past few days. Speaking this morning,
he told followers of his Twitter account that he is both "focused and ready"
to force his way into Sam Allardyce's first team plans. "I am working very
hard this pre-season," he said, adding "I need to play this season."
Cited as being as talented as Paul Gascoigne by none other than Sir Trevor
Brooking, Morrison has played at international level for England's under
16s, under 17s and under 18s. Upon his arrival at the Boleyn Ground, Sam
Allardyce vowed to do his best to help the youngster turn his fortunes
around. "It's not unusual for me, taking the odd difficult one on but I like
high-class talent at a football club if you can find it," he said. "If it
comes with a little bit of trouble, then I think you can cope.
"If the lad's doing it on the field then you help him as best you can off
the field to make sure he becomes a well-rounded, decent human being and,
hopefully, a decent footballer. "By Alex Ferguson's own words, Ravel is one
of the best he's ever had at that age. When Sir Alex tells you something
like that then you know [he's a great prospect]."
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Seven live games for Irons
KUMb.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham will be featuring live on TV seven times in the first half of the
new 2012/13 Premier League season. United's matches against Swansea, Fulham,
Norwich, QPR and Stoke will all be broadcast live by Sky Sports between
August and November as Sam Allarcyde's side look forward to their first
season back in the top flight.
Additionally, ESPN will be broadcasting the matches against Arsenal and
reigning Champions Manchester City live.
Full details as follows:
Swansea (a): August 25th, 12.45pm.
Fulham (h): September 1st, 12.45pm
Norwich (a): September 15th, 12.45pm
QPR (a): October 1st, 8pm
Arsenal (h): October 6th, 5.30pm
Man City (h): November 3rd, 5.30pm
Stoke (h): November 19th, 8pm
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Somer-Stech
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 5th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Former West Ham goalkeeper Marek Stech has signed a two-year contract with
Yeovil Town. The 22-year-old shot stopper was released by West Ham last week
but like fellow youngster Freddie Sears, who signed a three-year contract at
Colchester this week, Stech has wasted little time in finding himself a new
club. The 6'3" former youth international, who joined West Ham as a
16-year-old having been signed on the advice of Ludo Miklosko spent a month
on loan at Huish Park between October and November of last year, making five
appearances for the League One club. Only last summer Stech still harboured
high hopes of eventually becoming West Ham's number one.
Speaking in an interview with Czech website Pravo, recorded following West
Ham's relegation from the Premier League, he said:"I am full of optimism.
For me it's advantageous that we're not among the elite as I have a better
chance. "In the reserve games I've played well and pushed [Rob] Green in
training. He had an operation and problems plagued him after the treatment
of pain. It was almost my time, but I just didn't get a chance."
However his chances were to be limited even further during the campaign as
the result of a contractual issue that is thought to have prevented him from
being made available for selection. It was rumoured that after five first
team outings, Stech's former club Sparta would be due an additional payment
of £750,000 - something that West Ham were not prepared to pay.
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Are We Signing Jamie Mackie?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The Evening Standard has today run a story that West Ham are considering a
£1m bid for QPR's 26 year old, Scottish forward, Jamie Mackie. According to
the report, Mackie scored a creditable 16 goals in the last campaign, but
has fell further down the Rangers pecking order with recent arrival of Andy
Johnson from Fulham. Southampton are also allegedly monitoring the player's
availability.
I am sure that Jamie Mackie is a good professional, and can do a decent job
for the club, but is he the type of high profile player that the fans are
expecting us to sign ahead of this new PL season? Of course, it could just
be a rehash of an old story from last summer, when it was reported that we
enquired about his availability ahead of last season's Championship
campaign. But some will see this as a further indication that the board have
not learnt the lessons of 2010-11 and are attempting to survive in the PL on
the cheap. We shall just have wait and see what transpires on this one.
Anyway, what do you think of the possible signing of Jamie Mackie? Is it the
media engaging in wild speculation, reheating stone cold stories, or does it
have a all too real sense of probability? As the philosopher Vico said 'the
basis of all truth is probability.' I wonder if he was a Hammers supporter.
SJ. Chandos.
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Christian Montano to Leave West Ham!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
It has been announced that Christian Montano has rejected the offer of a
further one year contract with the club. The pacy and skillful Columbian
forward signed a one year contract extension last summer and his subsequent
public statements were full of confidence that he would make his debut in
the forthcoming season. Indeed, things looked very promising in the
pre-season, as Montano featured in a number of West Ham's matches, looking
sharp, skillful and effective on the ball.
Yet, that was as far as Montano's season went. He fell out of Sam
Allardyce's plans on the cusp of the new season and was then farmed out in a
perpetual succession of loans deals to lower league clubs. Even when Matt
Taylor was injured or suspended and West Ham were crying out for some extra
width, particularly on the left flank, Montano never got an opportunity to
show what he could do. And that was pretty tough on the youngster and
obviously led to him concluding that his chance was never going to come.
Some will argue that Sam Allardyce, and the coaches, had run the rule over
Montano, in pre-season, and judged that he was not ready for the first team.
Perhaps, but when you are in a situation when options are limited, why not
give youth a chance. Montano does not lack confidence (apparently he has
recently compared himself to Van Persie on his Twitter account) and it is
possible that he would have risen to the occasion and made a positive impact
against some decidedly average Championship outfits. Any teenager with the
nerve to take the ball off the great Di Canio's boot to score a goal has to
have something about him, surely?
Unfortunately, this is what happens when youth is not given its chance.
Frustration and negativity sets in and youngsters start looking around at
other options. Why did we not play him against Aldershot in the League Cup
or Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup? At least that would have given him a
chance, a platform to perform. If the youngster had done badly then it would
have reinforced the point that he was not ready and needed to keep working
at his game. Now it looks like we are to lose a promising forward and none
of us are any the wiser if he could have made a positive impact. Of course,
it could be that Allardyce and his coaches were right, but it is galling
that the issue was not tested in some pretty meaningless cup matches last
season.
Montano has said that the decision not to sign again was not about money, in
that case it must be about a lack of first team opportunity. So, we lose
Montano and at the same time we are trialing a 35 year old, who will
potentially take up a place in the squad and block the path of youngsters in
to the first team. The worry is that this not just a one-off, but a new Mode
of operation at the club. We may well survive the loss of Montano, but what
about if it is Hall, Voce, Turgott or Elliott Lee next time.
The famed 'West Ham Way' is not just about attractive, passing football, it
is also about developing and blooding our own young players. Or is that
deluded or something to be sacrificed on the alter of pragmatism and
results? I want to see the likes of Hall get more playing time this coming
season, and the use of the 7 man substitutes bench and cup matches to help
achieve it. Yes, I know youngsters need to prove themselves and there needs
to be a balance between youth and experience, but the truth is that
outstanding prospects like Robert Hall have the ability and are ready, all
they need is the opportunity. What did Napoleon say, 'talent is nothing
without opportunity.' Hall needs to be tested and challenged and that can
only come via first team football.
I have been largely supportive of Sam Allardyce, even during the disastrous
month of March, when far too many draws killed off our automatic promotion
aspirations. I am prepared to accept a tactical 'horses for courses'
approach, to grind out results against the top six teams, as long as we turn
on the style whenever we can. I like his keep it tight and counter-attack
approach away from home, it delivered both results and entertainment last
season. And I think that it will make us hard to beat on our travels this
season. But I draw a line in the sand at the club blocking the pathways to
the first team and letting the fruit of the Academy whither and die on the
vine. And I know that a lot of other Hammers fans feel exactly the same.
Sam Allardyce's job is to establish West Ham back in the PL and he is the
man to do it. He has my support, for whatever that is worth. But youth
progression needs to remain a key factor in his strategy, especially from
the bench and in the cup matches. Is that unreasonable? Personally I do not
think so, but no doubt others will disagree.
Hall, Potts, Moncur and Elliott Lee are some of the names that need to
figure next season. Will they? Hopefully, and especially if we get off to a
good start and at the very least manage to stay clear of the relegation
danger zone. While the two cup competitions offer obvious opportunities to
give them more valuable first team experience.
SJ.Chandos.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, July 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th July 2012
Jack back in the groove
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison is looking to start the new season in the same way he finished the previous one
05.07.2012
While Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te dominated the headlines following the npower Championship Play-Off final win over Blackpool in May, Jack Collison was just as important to West Ham United's successful promotion quest. The midfielder forced his way into the starting XI on a regular basis as the 2011/12 season approached its conclusion, scoring a screamer at Leicester City before bagging both goals in the vital 2-0 Play-Off semi-final first leg win at Cardiff City. The No10 told whufc.com how happy he was to contribute to the Club's success and cannot wait to get back to playing in the Barclays Premier League next month. "It's raining at home, so it is nice to be able to come to Austria to train, although it has been boiling hot so far!" he said. "The good thing is that you really feel the heat when you're training, get a sweat on and you feel you are working hard. "The boys have been having two or three sessions a day and we're doing some good exercise. "The setting is perfect. It's nice and quiet so we can really get away from everything and concentrate on our football. The hotel is superb and we had a nice swimming pool to work in just down the road, too. "It was a bit of an up and down season for me last year. I was in and out of the team for a while trying to find my fitness and form after being out for such a long time [with a serious knee injury]. "It was great to finally get some games under my belt and I'll look to hit the ground running this season and hit the net even more often."
Collison was part of the winning team in the annual pre-season water polo competition on Wednesday - the second year in succession that he has won the tournament - and was many people's pick for Most Valuable Player. "That's two gold medals in two years and two MVPs, so it's great for me to win the competition and be the outstanding player two years on the bounce. "It's also good to do exercises like that and build team spirit. You can really feel the lads coming together."
While he and his team-mates enjoy training on the pitch and in the pool, the Wales international admitted they all cannot wait for the first Barclays Premier League fixture at home to Aston Villa on 18 AUgust. "When the fixtures came out everyone was buzzing to see who we would be playing. Our first game is Villa at home and a home game is just what we wanted. "We've now got six weeks to get everyone fit and fighting for places. We've got lots of quality in the squad and everyone wants to be in that starting XI. "We've got a close-knit group and it's great that everyone is smiling and pushing each other in training, Off the pitch, everyone is getting on too."
Finally, Collison had words of praise and encouragement for close pal James Tomkins, who has been included in the Team GB squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games. "It's obviously brilliant for Tonks and I think he deserves it for the way he played last season. He was outstanding and it's great that he's got this recognition.
"Hopefully he'll got to the tournament and do really well and come back ready to play well for us."
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West Ham United in Austria - Wednesday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers began the third day of their training camp with a water polo tournament
04.07.2012
There were no lie-ins for West Ham United's players and staff on Wednesday as the Hammers kicked-off the day with a water polo tournament. Alarm calls woke the squad at 6.30am before they grabbed their towels and rode the short distance to the local swimming pool for a 7am start. There, fitness coach Eamon Swift split the players and staff players into four teams for what quickly turned into a typically competitive competition. Among the staff members who joined the players in the pool was strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo, who is celebrating his birthday. With that, first-team coach and referee Wally Downes got the games underway.
Head of medicine Andy Rolls explained that exercising in the swimming pool had many benefits for the players. "Training in water reduces the stress on the muscles and the joints, while the resistance of the water helps to build up muscle strength," said Rolls. "So, the players are conditioning their bodies and having fun at the same time."
The activity in the pool quickly attracted the attention of youngsters from a school across the road, who evidently begin their day earlier than their English counterparts. While all the matches were competitive, it quickly became clear that having a good goalkeeper was vital to a team's success. With that in mind, Team Two put Stephen Henderson in goal and the 6'4 stopper kept a succession of tournament-clinching clean sheets. While Henderson was unbeatable, Jack Collison again proved his prowess as a water polo star by prompting play in an influential midfield role. Ahead of him, Kevin Nolan was on hand to convert chances from close-range, just as he does on the football pitch. Nolan's winning team was completed by Nicky Maynard, who scored one searing long-range goal, Ricardo Vaz Te and head of rehabilitation Stijn Vandenbroucke.
Team One proved to be second best on the day, winning through to the final courtesy of scoring seven goals in their opening three games. However, James Tomkins, Guy Demel, George McCartney, Sam Baldock, Gary O'Neil and Mark Noble came up just short in the final. Teams Three and Four played-off for third place, but the two sides could not find a winner in normal time and were forced to share the wooden spoon. After the water polo, Noble made his way to the top of a nearby water slide, only to find the water flow turned off and have to make his way down on foot! The short ride back to the hotel was followed by breakfast before the players began to prepare for their morning training session at 10am, where Noble did his best Henri Lansbury impression by donning the goalkeeper's gloves before the action began.
That session saw the players go through an activation session in the indoor gym and enjoy a warm-up jog before joining assistant manager Neil McDonald for a series of drills on the pitch. After that, it was time for more keep-ball sessions while goalkeeper Martyn Margetson worked with Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson. Having ridden back to the hotel for lunch, the players and staff posed for a photograph outside the team hotel before being given the afternoon for free time. The squad's golfers headed over the road to the local course, while some chose to walk into the nearby town or simply relax by the hotel pool. The day will finish with a team-building barbecue on the hotel verandah to complete another productive 24 hours in Austria.
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Skipper relishing top-flight challenge
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan cannot wait to start the new Barclays Premier League season with the Hammers
04.07.2012
It is just seven-and-a-half short weeks since Kevin Nolan was lifting the npower Championship Play-Off trophy at Wembley. However, while the euphoria and feelgood factor from that amazing day lives on within the Club, the captain knows West Ham United have to use that positive energy to consolidate their hard-earned position in the Barclays Premier League. In the first section of an exclusive two-part West Ham TV interview conducted at the team's Austrian training camp, 'Nobby' also revealed his pre-season loves and hates and explained just how the Hammers will compete on their return to the top-flight.
Welcome back Kevin! It's only a few weeks since you lifted that trophy at Wembley, but it's good to be back, isn't it?
KN - I wouldn't say it's good to be back! No, seriously, looking back over the summer and reminiscing about what happened was great. We got back to where we belong after a long, hard season with a lot of changes. The lads did fantastically well and I think it was what we deserved in the end.
What do you love and hate about pre-season training? It is 90 degrees here in Austria, but you've had to run around in it for hours and hours!
KN - I think the love of it is getting back to seeing all the lads, all the banter and being a kid again after being a Dad and a husband for five weeks. Footballers are like that. You have that camaraderie and you do miss your team-mates after a bit. I would have liked another week off in the sunshine sitting around the pool, I must admit, but it's a fantastic location and we can solely focus on what is going to be an intensive six or seven-week period to make sure we're ready for Aston Villa. This is what it's all about - nothing else but preparing ourselves right for that first game.
How do you keep that energy and positive feeling from gaining promotion and take it into the new Barclays Premier League season?
KN - The euphoria does mean something because we're back in the Premier League. It was nice getting those Nike balls back out today and being able to kick them about everywhere - and me shank them everywhere! It just shows that the hard work we put in during the last pre-season and last season got us our just reward. We just need to focus on consolidating ourselves in the Premier League and, bit by bit, making sure that we stay back where we feel that we and West Ham United belong. We don't think that is in the Championship or in the lower reaches of the Premier League, but we've got to prove that. I'm not saying it's going to happen overnight because it's going to be hard work. This year is going to be about consolidating and making sure we're there for the season after. I'm not getting ahead of myself - this is what it's all about and what we've got to look at. It's just so nice that we got our reward last year and I'm really looking forward to that first day back in the Premier League. Hopefully it'll be a good first day.
What does that word 'consolidation' mean in practice? Targeting the games you can win and those you feel you can gain an unexpected point or three?
KN - I think it's about sticking together. We can't get too upset about defeats and can't celebrate the victories too dramatically. It's all about staying on an even keel and staying focused all season and making sure you don't get too disappointed and become low, because that can transmit into three or four games. What we want is that, if we lose a game, we bounce right back and if we win a game we keep that run going and get undefeated. It doesn't matter who you are playing next, but about who you are playing now. Aston Villa are up first at home and we've got to make sure we win the game because they will be coming thinking 'West Ham have just been promoted' and wanting to win the game too. We've got to be ready and I'm sure we will be and will get off to the start we want.
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Lletget loving life
WHUFC.com
Sebastian Lletget is in positive mood after being called-up to the first-team squad for pre-season
04.07.2012
At times, it has been tough for West Ham United teenager Sebastian Lletget. Living thousands of miles from his hometown of San Jose, California, and suffering from a severe bout of glandular fever during his Academy scholarship threatened to derail his promising career. But the United States Under-23 international has stuck at it and, as he begins his third season as a professional, has been rewarded with a call-up to the first-team squad for their pre-season training camp in Austria. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder - considered by many to be among the most skilful players at the Club, told West Ham TV of his delight at being included and his high hopes for the season ahead. "I'm really pleased to have got the call-up and I think the boys have received me well," said the American. "Basically, I have nothing but good things to say and am really relishing it. "Training on Monday was good but it was so hot! The weather means it is going to be a tough week. It's very hot and humid and coming back from summer, we're not all going to be 100 per cent fit. It's going to be tough but it's going to be a lot of fun too."
Having been called upon regularly by his country in recent summers, Lletget was afford the luxury of a free close-season after the USA failed to qualify for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The player himself believes the rest will be of huge benefit as he seeks to establish himself in Sam Allardyce's squad on a regular basis. "Big time, I think the rest was important. I think this summer I have enjoyed being home but I've also worked hard on the things I need to work on from last season "I think I have improved and hopefully I can show the manager what I can do."
When Lletget - signed from West Ham United International Academy partner club Sporting Santa Clara - looks around at the Hammers squad, he will see that he has a real chance to make the next step and save the Club from having to sign another midfield player ahead of the Barclays Premier League campaign. "I am sure there are more signings to come but I just hope I can do my thing and realise the potential the manager sees in me."
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Striker Freddie Sears joins Colchester from West Ham
BBC.co.uk
Colchester have signed striker Freddie Sears from West Ham on a free transfer. The 22-year-old has agreed a three-year contract after an 11-match loan spell at the club last season, during which he scored twice. "It feels like I've been around longer than I have. I look back, and I've not had a full season under my belt," he told BBC Essex. "In a way, it's like taking a step back to go forward again. I'm looking forward to the challenge."
Manager John Ward told the club's website: "He is young enough to push on in his career, and we can get the benefit. We are delighted to have Freddie on board and I think that three years is a commitment from him to us and what we are trying to achieve here." Ward added: "It is perhaps down to me that he didn't get as many games as he would have liked in his initial spell, but it is a changed situation for him this time. "As soon as he was released from West Ham, Freddie wanted to come here and I was wanting him to come."
Sears is Colchester's second signing of the summer, following the arrival of former Brentford midfielder Marcus Bean. A former England youth and Under-21 international, Sears was a prolific scorer for West Ham's reserves and made his Premier League debut in 2008 at the age of 18. However, he was unable to establish a regular place in the side and prior to joining Colchester last season, he had already been out on loan at Crystal Palace, Coventry and Scunthorpe.
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Guti joins camp
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Former Real Madrid star Guti has joined the West Ham contingent at their training camp in Austria. The 35-year-old midfielder, who played more than 500 times for the Spanish giants during 15 years at the club landed in Austria earlier today before joining up with the rest of the camp at their training base close to Vienna.
KUMB revealed three weeks ago that Sam Allardyce was keen for his staff to run the rule over the former Spanish international midfielder, who is available on a free transfer having been a free agent since last November. West Ham flew out to the Austrian capital last weekend, where they will remain until Saturday. On the same day Sam Allardyce's team are scheduled to play Austria Wien in their first pre-season friendly, although it remains unknown at this stage whether Guti will feature.
Tickets for the match, which kicks-off at 4pm, go on sale at the stadium from 2pm on matchday. All tickets are priced at €10.
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Mack race is on
The Sun
Last Updated: 05th July 2012
QPR striker Jamie Mackie is at the centre of a tug of war between top-flight new-boys West Ham and Southampton. Both clubs are considering £1million bids for the Scot, 26, who has hit 16 goals in 56 league games for Rangers.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison is looking to start the new season in the same way he finished the previous one
05.07.2012
While Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te dominated the headlines following the npower Championship Play-Off final win over Blackpool in May, Jack Collison was just as important to West Ham United's successful promotion quest. The midfielder forced his way into the starting XI on a regular basis as the 2011/12 season approached its conclusion, scoring a screamer at Leicester City before bagging both goals in the vital 2-0 Play-Off semi-final first leg win at Cardiff City. The No10 told whufc.com how happy he was to contribute to the Club's success and cannot wait to get back to playing in the Barclays Premier League next month. "It's raining at home, so it is nice to be able to come to Austria to train, although it has been boiling hot so far!" he said. "The good thing is that you really feel the heat when you're training, get a sweat on and you feel you are working hard. "The boys have been having two or three sessions a day and we're doing some good exercise. "The setting is perfect. It's nice and quiet so we can really get away from everything and concentrate on our football. The hotel is superb and we had a nice swimming pool to work in just down the road, too. "It was a bit of an up and down season for me last year. I was in and out of the team for a while trying to find my fitness and form after being out for such a long time [with a serious knee injury]. "It was great to finally get some games under my belt and I'll look to hit the ground running this season and hit the net even more often."
Collison was part of the winning team in the annual pre-season water polo competition on Wednesday - the second year in succession that he has won the tournament - and was many people's pick for Most Valuable Player. "That's two gold medals in two years and two MVPs, so it's great for me to win the competition and be the outstanding player two years on the bounce. "It's also good to do exercises like that and build team spirit. You can really feel the lads coming together."
While he and his team-mates enjoy training on the pitch and in the pool, the Wales international admitted they all cannot wait for the first Barclays Premier League fixture at home to Aston Villa on 18 AUgust. "When the fixtures came out everyone was buzzing to see who we would be playing. Our first game is Villa at home and a home game is just what we wanted. "We've now got six weeks to get everyone fit and fighting for places. We've got lots of quality in the squad and everyone wants to be in that starting XI. "We've got a close-knit group and it's great that everyone is smiling and pushing each other in training, Off the pitch, everyone is getting on too."
Finally, Collison had words of praise and encouragement for close pal James Tomkins, who has been included in the Team GB squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games. "It's obviously brilliant for Tonks and I think he deserves it for the way he played last season. He was outstanding and it's great that he's got this recognition.
"Hopefully he'll got to the tournament and do really well and come back ready to play well for us."
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West Ham United in Austria - Wednesday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers began the third day of their training camp with a water polo tournament
04.07.2012
There were no lie-ins for West Ham United's players and staff on Wednesday as the Hammers kicked-off the day with a water polo tournament. Alarm calls woke the squad at 6.30am before they grabbed their towels and rode the short distance to the local swimming pool for a 7am start. There, fitness coach Eamon Swift split the players and staff players into four teams for what quickly turned into a typically competitive competition. Among the staff members who joined the players in the pool was strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo, who is celebrating his birthday. With that, first-team coach and referee Wally Downes got the games underway.
Head of medicine Andy Rolls explained that exercising in the swimming pool had many benefits for the players. "Training in water reduces the stress on the muscles and the joints, while the resistance of the water helps to build up muscle strength," said Rolls. "So, the players are conditioning their bodies and having fun at the same time."
The activity in the pool quickly attracted the attention of youngsters from a school across the road, who evidently begin their day earlier than their English counterparts. While all the matches were competitive, it quickly became clear that having a good goalkeeper was vital to a team's success. With that in mind, Team Two put Stephen Henderson in goal and the 6'4 stopper kept a succession of tournament-clinching clean sheets. While Henderson was unbeatable, Jack Collison again proved his prowess as a water polo star by prompting play in an influential midfield role. Ahead of him, Kevin Nolan was on hand to convert chances from close-range, just as he does on the football pitch. Nolan's winning team was completed by Nicky Maynard, who scored one searing long-range goal, Ricardo Vaz Te and head of rehabilitation Stijn Vandenbroucke.
Team One proved to be second best on the day, winning through to the final courtesy of scoring seven goals in their opening three games. However, James Tomkins, Guy Demel, George McCartney, Sam Baldock, Gary O'Neil and Mark Noble came up just short in the final. Teams Three and Four played-off for third place, but the two sides could not find a winner in normal time and were forced to share the wooden spoon. After the water polo, Noble made his way to the top of a nearby water slide, only to find the water flow turned off and have to make his way down on foot! The short ride back to the hotel was followed by breakfast before the players began to prepare for their morning training session at 10am, where Noble did his best Henri Lansbury impression by donning the goalkeeper's gloves before the action began.
That session saw the players go through an activation session in the indoor gym and enjoy a warm-up jog before joining assistant manager Neil McDonald for a series of drills on the pitch. After that, it was time for more keep-ball sessions while goalkeeper Martyn Margetson worked with Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson. Having ridden back to the hotel for lunch, the players and staff posed for a photograph outside the team hotel before being given the afternoon for free time. The squad's golfers headed over the road to the local course, while some chose to walk into the nearby town or simply relax by the hotel pool. The day will finish with a team-building barbecue on the hotel verandah to complete another productive 24 hours in Austria.
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Skipper relishing top-flight challenge
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan cannot wait to start the new Barclays Premier League season with the Hammers
04.07.2012
It is just seven-and-a-half short weeks since Kevin Nolan was lifting the npower Championship Play-Off trophy at Wembley. However, while the euphoria and feelgood factor from that amazing day lives on within the Club, the captain knows West Ham United have to use that positive energy to consolidate their hard-earned position in the Barclays Premier League. In the first section of an exclusive two-part West Ham TV interview conducted at the team's Austrian training camp, 'Nobby' also revealed his pre-season loves and hates and explained just how the Hammers will compete on their return to the top-flight.
Welcome back Kevin! It's only a few weeks since you lifted that trophy at Wembley, but it's good to be back, isn't it?
KN - I wouldn't say it's good to be back! No, seriously, looking back over the summer and reminiscing about what happened was great. We got back to where we belong after a long, hard season with a lot of changes. The lads did fantastically well and I think it was what we deserved in the end.
What do you love and hate about pre-season training? It is 90 degrees here in Austria, but you've had to run around in it for hours and hours!
KN - I think the love of it is getting back to seeing all the lads, all the banter and being a kid again after being a Dad and a husband for five weeks. Footballers are like that. You have that camaraderie and you do miss your team-mates after a bit. I would have liked another week off in the sunshine sitting around the pool, I must admit, but it's a fantastic location and we can solely focus on what is going to be an intensive six or seven-week period to make sure we're ready for Aston Villa. This is what it's all about - nothing else but preparing ourselves right for that first game.
How do you keep that energy and positive feeling from gaining promotion and take it into the new Barclays Premier League season?
KN - The euphoria does mean something because we're back in the Premier League. It was nice getting those Nike balls back out today and being able to kick them about everywhere - and me shank them everywhere! It just shows that the hard work we put in during the last pre-season and last season got us our just reward. We just need to focus on consolidating ourselves in the Premier League and, bit by bit, making sure that we stay back where we feel that we and West Ham United belong. We don't think that is in the Championship or in the lower reaches of the Premier League, but we've got to prove that. I'm not saying it's going to happen overnight because it's going to be hard work. This year is going to be about consolidating and making sure we're there for the season after. I'm not getting ahead of myself - this is what it's all about and what we've got to look at. It's just so nice that we got our reward last year and I'm really looking forward to that first day back in the Premier League. Hopefully it'll be a good first day.
What does that word 'consolidation' mean in practice? Targeting the games you can win and those you feel you can gain an unexpected point or three?
KN - I think it's about sticking together. We can't get too upset about defeats and can't celebrate the victories too dramatically. It's all about staying on an even keel and staying focused all season and making sure you don't get too disappointed and become low, because that can transmit into three or four games. What we want is that, if we lose a game, we bounce right back and if we win a game we keep that run going and get undefeated. It doesn't matter who you are playing next, but about who you are playing now. Aston Villa are up first at home and we've got to make sure we win the game because they will be coming thinking 'West Ham have just been promoted' and wanting to win the game too. We've got to be ready and I'm sure we will be and will get off to the start we want.
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Lletget loving life
WHUFC.com
Sebastian Lletget is in positive mood after being called-up to the first-team squad for pre-season
04.07.2012
At times, it has been tough for West Ham United teenager Sebastian Lletget. Living thousands of miles from his hometown of San Jose, California, and suffering from a severe bout of glandular fever during his Academy scholarship threatened to derail his promising career. But the United States Under-23 international has stuck at it and, as he begins his third season as a professional, has been rewarded with a call-up to the first-team squad for their pre-season training camp in Austria. The 19-year-old attacking midfielder - considered by many to be among the most skilful players at the Club, told West Ham TV of his delight at being included and his high hopes for the season ahead. "I'm really pleased to have got the call-up and I think the boys have received me well," said the American. "Basically, I have nothing but good things to say and am really relishing it. "Training on Monday was good but it was so hot! The weather means it is going to be a tough week. It's very hot and humid and coming back from summer, we're not all going to be 100 per cent fit. It's going to be tough but it's going to be a lot of fun too."
Having been called upon regularly by his country in recent summers, Lletget was afford the luxury of a free close-season after the USA failed to qualify for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The player himself believes the rest will be of huge benefit as he seeks to establish himself in Sam Allardyce's squad on a regular basis. "Big time, I think the rest was important. I think this summer I have enjoyed being home but I've also worked hard on the things I need to work on from last season "I think I have improved and hopefully I can show the manager what I can do."
When Lletget - signed from West Ham United International Academy partner club Sporting Santa Clara - looks around at the Hammers squad, he will see that he has a real chance to make the next step and save the Club from having to sign another midfield player ahead of the Barclays Premier League campaign. "I am sure there are more signings to come but I just hope I can do my thing and realise the potential the manager sees in me."
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Striker Freddie Sears joins Colchester from West Ham
BBC.co.uk
Colchester have signed striker Freddie Sears from West Ham on a free transfer. The 22-year-old has agreed a three-year contract after an 11-match loan spell at the club last season, during which he scored twice. "It feels like I've been around longer than I have. I look back, and I've not had a full season under my belt," he told BBC Essex. "In a way, it's like taking a step back to go forward again. I'm looking forward to the challenge."
Manager John Ward told the club's website: "He is young enough to push on in his career, and we can get the benefit. We are delighted to have Freddie on board and I think that three years is a commitment from him to us and what we are trying to achieve here." Ward added: "It is perhaps down to me that he didn't get as many games as he would have liked in his initial spell, but it is a changed situation for him this time. "As soon as he was released from West Ham, Freddie wanted to come here and I was wanting him to come."
Sears is Colchester's second signing of the summer, following the arrival of former Brentford midfielder Marcus Bean. A former England youth and Under-21 international, Sears was a prolific scorer for West Ham's reserves and made his Premier League debut in 2008 at the age of 18. However, he was unable to establish a regular place in the side and prior to joining Colchester last season, he had already been out on loan at Crystal Palace, Coventry and Scunthorpe.
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Guti joins camp
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 4th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Former Real Madrid star Guti has joined the West Ham contingent at their training camp in Austria. The 35-year-old midfielder, who played more than 500 times for the Spanish giants during 15 years at the club landed in Austria earlier today before joining up with the rest of the camp at their training base close to Vienna.
KUMB revealed three weeks ago that Sam Allardyce was keen for his staff to run the rule over the former Spanish international midfielder, who is available on a free transfer having been a free agent since last November. West Ham flew out to the Austrian capital last weekend, where they will remain until Saturday. On the same day Sam Allardyce's team are scheduled to play Austria Wien in their first pre-season friendly, although it remains unknown at this stage whether Guti will feature.
Tickets for the match, which kicks-off at 4pm, go on sale at the stadium from 2pm on matchday. All tickets are priced at €10.
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Mack race is on
The Sun
Last Updated: 05th July 2012
QPR striker Jamie Mackie is at the centre of a tug of war between top-flight new-boys West Ham and Southampton. Both clubs are considering £1million bids for the Scot, 26, who has hit 16 goals in 56 league games for Rangers.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 4
Daily WHUFC News - 4th July 2012
West Ham United in Austria - Tuesday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers got down to work in 90 degree heat at their Bad Waltersdorf training camp
03.07.2012
The action heated up as West Ham United continued their Austrian pre-season training camp in temperatures in excess of 90F (34C) on Tuesday. After breakfast, the Hammers hopped on mountain bikes to cycle to the nearby stadium, where they were put through their paces for more than two hours. A thorough warm-up that saw the players use medicine balls, the pitch surround and gym mats to loosen up their muscles was followed by a series of drills led by assistant manager Neil McDonald, first-team coach Wally Downes and fitness coach Eamon Swift.
Two small goals were then erected on the edge of each penalty area before the players ended their session with a 30-minute match - broken into ten-minute sections in the intense heat to allow the players to cool down with wet towels and crushed ice and take on essential fluids. Meanwhile, following the warm-up, goalkeeper coach Martyn Margetson continued to get to know new goalkeepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson by putting them through a succession of drills and exercises.
Finally, Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan pulled on boxing gloves for four two-minute 'rounds' with Swift and McDonald while the other players and staff roared on their encouragement. Having finished their physical work, the players cooled down in two inflatable ice baths at the pitch-side to aid circulation and muscle recovery following what had been a testing two hours.
Before riding back up the hill to the team hotel, the squad took time out to sign autographs and pose for photographs with youngsters from the Theresianum Academy in Vienna - including English-born Hammers fan Robin Morgan, who is pictured with Carlton Cole and spoke to West Ham TV - who are in the area for a summer football camp of their own.
After a deserved lunch, the players were given the afternoon to relax and recover before heading back to the stadium for an evening training session this evening.
With the skies now grey and thunder and lightning in the nearby hills, rain threatened but thankfully stayed away from the day's second session, allowing the players to split into small groups to work on specific muscles and body parts for 30 minutes.
Head of sports medicine Andy Rolls, head of rehabiliation Stijn Vandenbroucke, strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo and sports therapists Taka Yamamoto and Will Storey each worked with a group of between four and seven players. After a half-hour of intense work and exercise, it was time for bit of fun in the form of a game of cricket. Rain did not stop play as the players illustrated their all-round sporting prowess by bowling, batting and fielding with aplomb on the beautiful playing surface.
Highlights of the day's play were Sam Baldock and Wally Downes' outstanding batting, Mark Noble and Ravel Morrison's bowling and the fielding of Nicky Maynard, who pulled off a miraculous full-length diving catch to dismiss one batsman. The match also gave the likes of Ricardo Vaz Te the chance to play a sport he had never tried before.
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Joint-Chairman planning for long term
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is planning for a sensible future at West Ham United
03.07.2012
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has outlined his vision for a healthy financial future for West Ham United. The 2013/14 season will see the new Barclays Premier League broadcast rights deal come into force and the Joint-Chairman is determined to see the new income used in the best way possible to aid the long-term stability of West Ham United. Mr Sullivan has explained that the Board will be looking at ways to reward the Hammers' loyal supporters rather than passing on the extra income to other areas at the club.
Speaking to ESPN Soccernet, Mr Sullivan said: "I think next season a lot of clubs will look to not give all the new TV money to players and agents. On all previous occasions it has gone up it has ended up with them, however, I feel on this occasion it might not happen. West Ham United are determined long term to be a viable, self-financing club. "We'll pay good wages, but not be taken to the cleaners by agents and players at the expense of our supporters. The increase in TV money next year, will allow us to continue to freeze ticket and season ticket prices."
While the Board continue to work hard to bring the club's debt down, Mr Sullivan wants to make sure that the mistakes made in the past are not repeated. Part of that plan is the commitment to not pay disproportionate wages to players and agents. "I cannot see any collective decisions, but there are quite a few clubs, for example, Norwich, Swansea, WBA who seem to be taking a more sensible approach to things and West Ham will be in that camp," he said. "Overpaying virtually bankrupted this club and we are still burdened by £100 million of debt as a result of the excesses of the previous owners in giving too much to players. Many clubs are saddled with too much debt and the restrictions imposed by their bankers will ensure there is a tighter control over wages going forward."
Although it has not been widely publicised, the Joint-Chairman has also been generously supporting local charities from his own pocket during the summer. He said: "We are, as we have always been, more than a football club. We see our role in the community of East London and Essex as a vital part of the role of the club.
"West Ham United is rooted in London, working with and for the community. We are more than a football club."
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Barrera departs
WHUFC.com
Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican club Cruz Azul for an undisclosed fee
03.07.2012
West Ham United can confirm that midfielder Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican side Cruz Azul for an undisclosed fee. Barrera joined the Hammers in 2010 and went on to make 23 appearances in claret and blue. The Mexico international spent the 2011/12 season at Spanish outfit Real Zaragoza on a season-long loan deal.
West Ham United would like to thank Pablo for his efforts at the club and wish him well for his future career.
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Hall on as England draw opener
WHUFC.com
Rob Hall's was a substitute as England drew 1-1 with Croatia at the UEFA U19 Euro in Estonia
03.07.2012
Rob Hall was a 77th-minute substitute as England began their UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals campaign with a 1-1 draw with Croatia on Tuesday.
Hall, who is aiming to complete a remarkable double, came on for Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane as England tried to complete a comeback victory in the Estonian capital Tallinn. Earlier, Croatia had taken the lead before Chelsea's Nathaniel Chalobah - a close friend of the West Ham United forward - levelled midway through the second half.
Hall lifted the Under-17 version of the same trophy two seasons ago alongside many of his current team-mates and is confident the Young Lions can repeat their success in Estonia this summer. The Under-19s tackle Serbia on Friday in Rakvere before returning to Tallinn to take on France on Monday. The top two in the group will face one of Greece, Portugal, Spain or Estonia in the semi-finals of the eight-nation event. France beat Serbia 3-0 in Tuesday's other opening Group B match.
With England being given a bye until the final Elite Round of qualifiers, Hall was not involved, but he did prove his pedigree at Under-19 level by scoring the winner in a 1-0 international victory over Denmark in November. The Hammers man can also draw on the experience of being part of the Under-17 squad which beat Spain 2-1 to lift the European Championship trophy in Liechtenstein in May 2010, when he appeared in all five matches.
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London 2012: West Ham's James Tomkins honoured by GB call-up
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United defender James Tomkins says he is thrilled to have been called up to represent Great Britain in the Olympic football tournament. The 23-year-old was named in Stuart Pearce's final 18-man squad on Monday. Tomkins told BBC London 94.9: "It's great news. It's going to be a great honour and something I am really looking forward to. "It's hard to take in when you think about what the atmosphere will be like. It's exciting and I can't wait." He added: "I grew up with quite a lot of the lads and they are quite familiar to me. "Thanks to West Ham and the manager [Sam Allardyce] for giving me the chance to go away from pre-season and represent Great Britain.
James Tomkins factfile
Born 29 March 1989
Joined West Ham at the age of seven
Originally played as a striker before converting to centre-back
Made his Hammers debut in March 2008
Has represented England at six different age levels
Team GB will play Senegal, UAE and Uruguay in their group games as they compete in the competition for the first time since 1960. Pearce has selected Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs, Liverpool forward Craig Bellamy and Manchester City defender Micah Richards as his three over-age players. Tomkins, who was named in the PFA's Championship team of the year last season, is optimistic over Britain's chances in the tournament. "It's a hard one because we haven't seen many of the teams play or what to expect from them," the Basildon-born centre-back added. "You can see the quality in our team and I think we've got enough to go a long way. Hopefully we can work hard with Stuart Pearce on the training ground and get an understanding. "A medal is the ultimate goal but we'll see what happens."
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Adios amigo
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 3rd July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Winger Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican side Cruz Azul on a permanent basis. It was confirmed this evening (Tuesday) that the 25-year-old Mexican international has returned to South America in order to join the Primera Division club, with whom he has signed a three-year contract. After completing a medical earlier today, Barrera officially joined La Maquina Celeste for an undisclosed fee. Just two years ago West Ham paid £4million to bring the player to Europe from Azul's rivals Pumas, with whom he had spent the first five years of his pro career. Having failed to settle in England after making just 13 starts for West Ham in 2010/11, Barrera was sent on a season-long loan to Real Zaragoza - although he fared little better there, making just 12 starts for the Blanquillos. Having subsequently returned to England there appeared to be little prospect of him staying at West Ham, and he was given permission to speak with other clubs last week
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Pablo Barrera Departs, as We Allegedly Suffer a Holt 'Hammer Blow' !
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The footballing enigma that is Pablo Barrera has predictably parted company with West Ham to join Mexican club, Cruz Azu. Consisently effective at international level, Barrera has been equally ineffectual in European club football. Not only did he fail to impress at West Ham, but he did little better at Real Zarogosa, while on loan last season. Undoubtedly talented, it is to be regreted that Barrera was never able to replicate his international performances for the Hammers. But the reality is that the player has failed to adapt and it is probably the best for all concerned that he has now returned to Mexican football.
Some things never seem to change. And of these is the cliched headlines of the sports media. They obviously could not resist portraying Grant Holt's new three year deal at Norwich, and the end of West Ham attempts to sign him, as a 'Hammer Blow.' Most Hammers fans, with whom I have discussed the pursuit of Grant Holt, have been less than keen on the potential deal. While recognising the pragmatic argument that if he 'did the business' for one season the alleged c.£6m outlay would be well worth it, there is also the inherent danger that Holt might not repeat last season's goal scoring success. Now we West Ham fans will be able to see which way Holt's second PL season goes as casual observers, rather than concerned stakeholders! No doubt if he does deliver the goods once again, there will be a claret and blue chorus of 'if only,' but hopefully the signing, and subsequent goal scoring exploits, of an alternative striker will soften the so-called 'Hammer Blow.'
One can only hope that West Ham's transfer dealings are akin to an ice berg (3/4 below the surface) or the deceptive calm of a duck's paddling (all grace on top and frantic effort below). Otherwise, there is the possibility that West Ham are struggling to land their priority transfer targets. Yes, it's still early days, but there is no doubt that there will be a collective sigh of relief once a deal for a top target, like Elia, Yilmaz, Clyne or Zaha is signed, sealed and delivered. I sense an emerging nervousness about the apparent delay in anouncing one of these deals, allied to the increasing frequency with which we are linked to veterans like Guti, Seedorf and Stankovich. Personally, I am not opposed in principle to bringing in the experience of older players, of the 'vintage' variety, if they are of sufficient class and still have something left in the tank. However, I view a deal like that as a supplement and not a replacement for more ambitious signings.
And of course, the latest statement by the West Ham Board about not paying over the odds, will only contrive to reinforce any nascent concerns of supporters. Some will juxtapose that statement with the Stankovich and Guti rumours and conclude that one is a logical consequence of the other. That West Ham are losing out on their main targets and are now turning to the bargain basement in response. Hopefully, this is a case of putting 2 +2 together and = 5, with a 'big fish' ike Elia and/or Yilmaz being landed in the next week or so. Although, there is a natural concern that the Board may repeat their mistakes of the 2010-11 summer transfer window, one can only agree that the madness that brought the likes of Ljunberg and Dyer to the club, on massively inflated wages, cannot be repeated. That much is granted, but there is still a need to be competitive in the transfer market, so that we stand a chance of bringing extra quality in to the squad. It is a fine line, but one that the club must sucessfully tread in order to avoid a season of struggle, while also continuing to improve the club's finances and long-term stability.
Finally, I was pleasantly surprised by the new home kit. It has all the pre-requisites that I look for in a Hammers home kit, which are claret body and sky blue sleeves and white shorts. I am not that keen on the claret stockings with blue hoops, but I suppose they have to vary something significant in the design. I was half expecting some horrific experiment, like claret and blue strips being thrust upon us this time around. Thankfully we have been spared that. I am not conservative minded in many respects (probably just education and West Ham kits!) but I do, however, like West Ham to look like West Ham! And Macron, the current kit suppliers, have been very good in that respect.
Anyway, here's hoping that the good times - and some exciting signings - soon start to roll!
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Contract Granted
Holt signs three-yeal deal
The Sun
Published: 03rd July 2012
GRANT HOLT has performed a dramatic U-turn by signing a new three-year deal at Norwich. The former Shrewsbury hitman, 31, scored 15 goals to help keep the Canaries in the Premier League last season. He handed in a transfer request at the end of the campaign but it was rejected by the club, along with several bids from West Ham. And following talks with new boss Chris Hughton, who took charge after Paul Lambert left for Aston Villa, captain Holt has now decided to commit his future to the Canaries. Holt said: "I'm really pleased we've agreed things and that I've got a three-year deal which gives me and my family a bit of security. "I do appreciate where the club was coming from in terms of the process we've gone through to get to this point. "Now I'm just really keen to concentrate on getting back to work with the rest of the lads and concentrating on having a good pre-season and getting ready for the start of another season in the Premier League."
Norwich have been quick to tie up key men on new deals, with goalkeeper John Ruddy joining versatile Scotland defender Russell Martin and midfielder Andrew Surman in penning fresh terms. Hughton added: "I said when I first arrived that talking to Grant was a priority as what he has achieved for Norwich and what he brings to the squad is there for all to see. "It's great news that he has signed a new contract and I'm really looking forward to getting down to work with Grant and the rest of the players when we return to training next week."
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Any old Iron: West Ham target Serbian veteran Stankovic and Lukaku (report)
The Mirror
Inter Milan stalwart Dejan Stankovic is on the shopping list of West Ham, as Sam Allardyce looks to ready his squad for the top flight. The 33-year-old Serbia midfielder is in the final year of his contract with Inter after an astonishing period of success since joining the Serie A club in 2004. Stanky bagged five Serie A titles and a Champions League winner medal – but the chances of him adding to his medal haul with the Hammers are slim. And he'll probably struggle to get a work permit. No such problems anticipated for Allardyce as he seeks a loan deal for Stamford Bridge outcast striker Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian cost Chelsea an eye-watering £17m in August last year – and so far he's managed one start.
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West Ham United join race for Turkish Goal King Burak Yilmaz
2012-07-03 16:05:04
Turkish Football
West Ham are the latest club to be linked with making a move for highly sought-after Trabzonspor striker Burak Yilmaz. The Hammers are reported to have opened talks with the strikers agent Ali Egesel however, rumors that Yilmaz will arrive in London for a medical have not been confirmed. Lazio were leading the race to sign Yilmaz until negotiations broke down following the Seria A side's reluctance to pay his €5 million release clause upfront. The East London club also face competition from Fulham and Tottenham. Trabzonspor president Sadri Şener told reporters, "Tottenham and Fulham are also interested in Burak Yilmaz, we shall see what happens" he said.
West Ham were promoted to the Premiership last season and have been active in the transfer market investing in strengthening the squad for the league campaign.
Yilmaz has been in prolific form for Trabzonspor over the past two seasons. He guided the Black Sea club to pole position in the league last year scoring 19 times, only to lose out on winning the championship to Fenerbahce on goal difference. The 26-year-old Turkish international netted 35 times in 41 games this season and his modest €5 million release clause has attracted the attention of major clubs across Europe. Yilmaz broke the clubs all time scoring record in the league this season, scoring 51% of Trabzonspor's 65 goals. In an interview on TRT's football program, Stadyum earlier this year, Yilmaz stated that he would consider a move to Spain or England if the right offer was made. Liverpool, Sunderland, Atletico Madrid, Rubin Kazan, Ajax and Galatasaray have also been linked with the Turkish Goal King.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
The Hammers got down to work in 90 degree heat at their Bad Waltersdorf training camp
03.07.2012
The action heated up as West Ham United continued their Austrian pre-season training camp in temperatures in excess of 90F (34C) on Tuesday. After breakfast, the Hammers hopped on mountain bikes to cycle to the nearby stadium, where they were put through their paces for more than two hours. A thorough warm-up that saw the players use medicine balls, the pitch surround and gym mats to loosen up their muscles was followed by a series of drills led by assistant manager Neil McDonald, first-team coach Wally Downes and fitness coach Eamon Swift.
Two small goals were then erected on the edge of each penalty area before the players ended their session with a 30-minute match - broken into ten-minute sections in the intense heat to allow the players to cool down with wet towels and crushed ice and take on essential fluids. Meanwhile, following the warm-up, goalkeeper coach Martyn Margetson continued to get to know new goalkeepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson by putting them through a succession of drills and exercises.
Finally, Mark Noble and Kevin Nolan pulled on boxing gloves for four two-minute 'rounds' with Swift and McDonald while the other players and staff roared on their encouragement. Having finished their physical work, the players cooled down in two inflatable ice baths at the pitch-side to aid circulation and muscle recovery following what had been a testing two hours.
Before riding back up the hill to the team hotel, the squad took time out to sign autographs and pose for photographs with youngsters from the Theresianum Academy in Vienna - including English-born Hammers fan Robin Morgan, who is pictured with Carlton Cole and spoke to West Ham TV - who are in the area for a summer football camp of their own.
After a deserved lunch, the players were given the afternoon to relax and recover before heading back to the stadium for an evening training session this evening.
With the skies now grey and thunder and lightning in the nearby hills, rain threatened but thankfully stayed away from the day's second session, allowing the players to split into small groups to work on specific muscles and body parts for 30 minutes.
Head of sports medicine Andy Rolls, head of rehabiliation Stijn Vandenbroucke, strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo and sports therapists Taka Yamamoto and Will Storey each worked with a group of between four and seven players. After a half-hour of intense work and exercise, it was time for bit of fun in the form of a game of cricket. Rain did not stop play as the players illustrated their all-round sporting prowess by bowling, batting and fielding with aplomb on the beautiful playing surface.
Highlights of the day's play were Sam Baldock and Wally Downes' outstanding batting, Mark Noble and Ravel Morrison's bowling and the fielding of Nicky Maynard, who pulled off a miraculous full-length diving catch to dismiss one batsman. The match also gave the likes of Ricardo Vaz Te the chance to play a sport he had never tried before.
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Joint-Chairman planning for long term
WHUFC.com
Joint-Chairman David Sullivan is planning for a sensible future at West Ham United
03.07.2012
West Ham United Joint-Chairman David Sullivan has outlined his vision for a healthy financial future for West Ham United. The 2013/14 season will see the new Barclays Premier League broadcast rights deal come into force and the Joint-Chairman is determined to see the new income used in the best way possible to aid the long-term stability of West Ham United. Mr Sullivan has explained that the Board will be looking at ways to reward the Hammers' loyal supporters rather than passing on the extra income to other areas at the club.
Speaking to ESPN Soccernet, Mr Sullivan said: "I think next season a lot of clubs will look to not give all the new TV money to players and agents. On all previous occasions it has gone up it has ended up with them, however, I feel on this occasion it might not happen. West Ham United are determined long term to be a viable, self-financing club. "We'll pay good wages, but not be taken to the cleaners by agents and players at the expense of our supporters. The increase in TV money next year, will allow us to continue to freeze ticket and season ticket prices."
While the Board continue to work hard to bring the club's debt down, Mr Sullivan wants to make sure that the mistakes made in the past are not repeated. Part of that plan is the commitment to not pay disproportionate wages to players and agents. "I cannot see any collective decisions, but there are quite a few clubs, for example, Norwich, Swansea, WBA who seem to be taking a more sensible approach to things and West Ham will be in that camp," he said. "Overpaying virtually bankrupted this club and we are still burdened by £100 million of debt as a result of the excesses of the previous owners in giving too much to players. Many clubs are saddled with too much debt and the restrictions imposed by their bankers will ensure there is a tighter control over wages going forward."
Although it has not been widely publicised, the Joint-Chairman has also been generously supporting local charities from his own pocket during the summer. He said: "We are, as we have always been, more than a football club. We see our role in the community of East London and Essex as a vital part of the role of the club.
"West Ham United is rooted in London, working with and for the community. We are more than a football club."
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Barrera departs
WHUFC.com
Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican club Cruz Azul for an undisclosed fee
03.07.2012
West Ham United can confirm that midfielder Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican side Cruz Azul for an undisclosed fee. Barrera joined the Hammers in 2010 and went on to make 23 appearances in claret and blue. The Mexico international spent the 2011/12 season at Spanish outfit Real Zaragoza on a season-long loan deal.
West Ham United would like to thank Pablo for his efforts at the club and wish him well for his future career.
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Hall on as England draw opener
WHUFC.com
Rob Hall's was a substitute as England drew 1-1 with Croatia at the UEFA U19 Euro in Estonia
03.07.2012
Rob Hall was a 77th-minute substitute as England began their UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals campaign with a 1-1 draw with Croatia on Tuesday.
Hall, who is aiming to complete a remarkable double, came on for Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane as England tried to complete a comeback victory in the Estonian capital Tallinn. Earlier, Croatia had taken the lead before Chelsea's Nathaniel Chalobah - a close friend of the West Ham United forward - levelled midway through the second half.
Hall lifted the Under-17 version of the same trophy two seasons ago alongside many of his current team-mates and is confident the Young Lions can repeat their success in Estonia this summer. The Under-19s tackle Serbia on Friday in Rakvere before returning to Tallinn to take on France on Monday. The top two in the group will face one of Greece, Portugal, Spain or Estonia in the semi-finals of the eight-nation event. France beat Serbia 3-0 in Tuesday's other opening Group B match.
With England being given a bye until the final Elite Round of qualifiers, Hall was not involved, but he did prove his pedigree at Under-19 level by scoring the winner in a 1-0 international victory over Denmark in November. The Hammers man can also draw on the experience of being part of the Under-17 squad which beat Spain 2-1 to lift the European Championship trophy in Liechtenstein in May 2010, when he appeared in all five matches.
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London 2012: West Ham's James Tomkins honoured by GB call-up
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United defender James Tomkins says he is thrilled to have been called up to represent Great Britain in the Olympic football tournament. The 23-year-old was named in Stuart Pearce's final 18-man squad on Monday. Tomkins told BBC London 94.9: "It's great news. It's going to be a great honour and something I am really looking forward to. "It's hard to take in when you think about what the atmosphere will be like. It's exciting and I can't wait." He added: "I grew up with quite a lot of the lads and they are quite familiar to me. "Thanks to West Ham and the manager [Sam Allardyce] for giving me the chance to go away from pre-season and represent Great Britain.
James Tomkins factfile
Born 29 March 1989
Joined West Ham at the age of seven
Originally played as a striker before converting to centre-back
Made his Hammers debut in March 2008
Has represented England at six different age levels
Team GB will play Senegal, UAE and Uruguay in their group games as they compete in the competition for the first time since 1960. Pearce has selected Manchester United veteran Ryan Giggs, Liverpool forward Craig Bellamy and Manchester City defender Micah Richards as his three over-age players. Tomkins, who was named in the PFA's Championship team of the year last season, is optimistic over Britain's chances in the tournament. "It's a hard one because we haven't seen many of the teams play or what to expect from them," the Basildon-born centre-back added. "You can see the quality in our team and I think we've got enough to go a long way. Hopefully we can work hard with Stuart Pearce on the training ground and get an understanding. "A medal is the ultimate goal but we'll see what happens."
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Adios amigo
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 3rd July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Winger Pablo Barrera has joined Mexican side Cruz Azul on a permanent basis. It was confirmed this evening (Tuesday) that the 25-year-old Mexican international has returned to South America in order to join the Primera Division club, with whom he has signed a three-year contract. After completing a medical earlier today, Barrera officially joined La Maquina Celeste for an undisclosed fee. Just two years ago West Ham paid £4million to bring the player to Europe from Azul's rivals Pumas, with whom he had spent the first five years of his pro career. Having failed to settle in England after making just 13 starts for West Ham in 2010/11, Barrera was sent on a season-long loan to Real Zaragoza - although he fared little better there, making just 12 starts for the Blanquillos. Having subsequently returned to England there appeared to be little prospect of him staying at West Ham, and he was given permission to speak with other clubs last week
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Pablo Barrera Departs, as We Allegedly Suffer a Holt 'Hammer Blow' !
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
The footballing enigma that is Pablo Barrera has predictably parted company with West Ham to join Mexican club, Cruz Azu. Consisently effective at international level, Barrera has been equally ineffectual in European club football. Not only did he fail to impress at West Ham, but he did little better at Real Zarogosa, while on loan last season. Undoubtedly talented, it is to be regreted that Barrera was never able to replicate his international performances for the Hammers. But the reality is that the player has failed to adapt and it is probably the best for all concerned that he has now returned to Mexican football.
Some things never seem to change. And of these is the cliched headlines of the sports media. They obviously could not resist portraying Grant Holt's new three year deal at Norwich, and the end of West Ham attempts to sign him, as a 'Hammer Blow.' Most Hammers fans, with whom I have discussed the pursuit of Grant Holt, have been less than keen on the potential deal. While recognising the pragmatic argument that if he 'did the business' for one season the alleged c.£6m outlay would be well worth it, there is also the inherent danger that Holt might not repeat last season's goal scoring success. Now we West Ham fans will be able to see which way Holt's second PL season goes as casual observers, rather than concerned stakeholders! No doubt if he does deliver the goods once again, there will be a claret and blue chorus of 'if only,' but hopefully the signing, and subsequent goal scoring exploits, of an alternative striker will soften the so-called 'Hammer Blow.'
One can only hope that West Ham's transfer dealings are akin to an ice berg (3/4 below the surface) or the deceptive calm of a duck's paddling (all grace on top and frantic effort below). Otherwise, there is the possibility that West Ham are struggling to land their priority transfer targets. Yes, it's still early days, but there is no doubt that there will be a collective sigh of relief once a deal for a top target, like Elia, Yilmaz, Clyne or Zaha is signed, sealed and delivered. I sense an emerging nervousness about the apparent delay in anouncing one of these deals, allied to the increasing frequency with which we are linked to veterans like Guti, Seedorf and Stankovich. Personally, I am not opposed in principle to bringing in the experience of older players, of the 'vintage' variety, if they are of sufficient class and still have something left in the tank. However, I view a deal like that as a supplement and not a replacement for more ambitious signings.
And of course, the latest statement by the West Ham Board about not paying over the odds, will only contrive to reinforce any nascent concerns of supporters. Some will juxtapose that statement with the Stankovich and Guti rumours and conclude that one is a logical consequence of the other. That West Ham are losing out on their main targets and are now turning to the bargain basement in response. Hopefully, this is a case of putting 2 +2 together and = 5, with a 'big fish' ike Elia and/or Yilmaz being landed in the next week or so. Although, there is a natural concern that the Board may repeat their mistakes of the 2010-11 summer transfer window, one can only agree that the madness that brought the likes of Ljunberg and Dyer to the club, on massively inflated wages, cannot be repeated. That much is granted, but there is still a need to be competitive in the transfer market, so that we stand a chance of bringing extra quality in to the squad. It is a fine line, but one that the club must sucessfully tread in order to avoid a season of struggle, while also continuing to improve the club's finances and long-term stability.
Finally, I was pleasantly surprised by the new home kit. It has all the pre-requisites that I look for in a Hammers home kit, which are claret body and sky blue sleeves and white shorts. I am not that keen on the claret stockings with blue hoops, but I suppose they have to vary something significant in the design. I was half expecting some horrific experiment, like claret and blue strips being thrust upon us this time around. Thankfully we have been spared that. I am not conservative minded in many respects (probably just education and West Ham kits!) but I do, however, like West Ham to look like West Ham! And Macron, the current kit suppliers, have been very good in that respect.
Anyway, here's hoping that the good times - and some exciting signings - soon start to roll!
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Contract Granted
Holt signs three-yeal deal
The Sun
Published: 03rd July 2012
GRANT HOLT has performed a dramatic U-turn by signing a new three-year deal at Norwich. The former Shrewsbury hitman, 31, scored 15 goals to help keep the Canaries in the Premier League last season. He handed in a transfer request at the end of the campaign but it was rejected by the club, along with several bids from West Ham. And following talks with new boss Chris Hughton, who took charge after Paul Lambert left for Aston Villa, captain Holt has now decided to commit his future to the Canaries. Holt said: "I'm really pleased we've agreed things and that I've got a three-year deal which gives me and my family a bit of security. "I do appreciate where the club was coming from in terms of the process we've gone through to get to this point. "Now I'm just really keen to concentrate on getting back to work with the rest of the lads and concentrating on having a good pre-season and getting ready for the start of another season in the Premier League."
Norwich have been quick to tie up key men on new deals, with goalkeeper John Ruddy joining versatile Scotland defender Russell Martin and midfielder Andrew Surman in penning fresh terms. Hughton added: "I said when I first arrived that talking to Grant was a priority as what he has achieved for Norwich and what he brings to the squad is there for all to see. "It's great news that he has signed a new contract and I'm really looking forward to getting down to work with Grant and the rest of the players when we return to training next week."
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Any old Iron: West Ham target Serbian veteran Stankovic and Lukaku (report)
The Mirror
Inter Milan stalwart Dejan Stankovic is on the shopping list of West Ham, as Sam Allardyce looks to ready his squad for the top flight. The 33-year-old Serbia midfielder is in the final year of his contract with Inter after an astonishing period of success since joining the Serie A club in 2004. Stanky bagged five Serie A titles and a Champions League winner medal – but the chances of him adding to his medal haul with the Hammers are slim. And he'll probably struggle to get a work permit. No such problems anticipated for Allardyce as he seeks a loan deal for Stamford Bridge outcast striker Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian cost Chelsea an eye-watering £17m in August last year – and so far he's managed one start.
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West Ham United join race for Turkish Goal King Burak Yilmaz
2012-07-03 16:05:04
Turkish Football
West Ham are the latest club to be linked with making a move for highly sought-after Trabzonspor striker Burak Yilmaz. The Hammers are reported to have opened talks with the strikers agent Ali Egesel however, rumors that Yilmaz will arrive in London for a medical have not been confirmed. Lazio were leading the race to sign Yilmaz until negotiations broke down following the Seria A side's reluctance to pay his €5 million release clause upfront. The East London club also face competition from Fulham and Tottenham. Trabzonspor president Sadri Şener told reporters, "Tottenham and Fulham are also interested in Burak Yilmaz, we shall see what happens" he said.
West Ham were promoted to the Premiership last season and have been active in the transfer market investing in strengthening the squad for the league campaign.
Yilmaz has been in prolific form for Trabzonspor over the past two seasons. He guided the Black Sea club to pole position in the league last year scoring 19 times, only to lose out on winning the championship to Fenerbahce on goal difference. The 26-year-old Turkish international netted 35 times in 41 games this season and his modest €5 million release clause has attracted the attention of major clubs across Europe. Yilmaz broke the clubs all time scoring record in the league this season, scoring 51% of Trabzonspor's 65 goals. In an interview on TRT's football program, Stadyum earlier this year, Yilmaz stated that he would consider a move to Spain or England if the right offer was made. Liverpool, Sunderland, Atletico Madrid, Rubin Kazan, Ajax and Galatasaray have also been linked with the Turkish Goal King.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, July 3
Daily WHUFC News - 3rd July 2012
Tonks gets Team GB call
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins has been named in the Team GB squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games
02.07.2012
James Tomkins has been named in the Team GB football squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The West Ham United defender has been rewarded for his outstanding performances throughout the 2011/12 season by being picked in the final 18-man squad by head coach and former Hammer Stuart Pearce. Tomkins, who has been capped by England at every age-group level and has appeared at two UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals, will be West Ham's sole representative at the Olympics. The 23-year-old spoke of his pride and excitement at being named in the Team GB squad for London 2012. "I am just delighted to have been included and obviously it is a great honour to be selected for such an occasion as the Olympic Games," said the No5, who scored four goals in 47 npower Championship and Play-Off appearances as West Ham gained promotion to the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt. "A lot of the boys I have played with before with England so it will be good to spend some time with them again. "It will also be great to play alongside Craig Bellamy again. He's a great player and a proper character. Ryan Giggs is a legend of the game so it would be fantastic to play alongside him too. "Obviously I will miss some of the pre-season but I will be training every day and hopefully playing regularly. With an 18-man squad there should be chances for everyone to play. "It's the first time in more than 50 years that Team GB has taken part in the Olympics so it is something I and all the other players I am sure are looking forward to. "I am grateful to West Ham for giving me the opportunity to represent Great Britain at the Olympics and I'll do my very best to represent the Club."
Team GB have twice won the Gold medal, at the first-ever Olympic football tournament in London in 1908 and again in Stockholm in 1912. However, Team GB have not competed in the competition since 1960. This summer, Pearce's side will kick-off their bid for Gold when they face Senegal in Group A at Old Trafford on 26 July. Team GB will travel to Wembley to take on United Arab Emirates on 29 July before completing the group stage with a fixture with Uruguay at the Millennium Stadium on 1 August. Sixteen teams will compete in the Olympic football tournament, with the Gold medal match taking place at Wembley on 11 August. Assistant manager Neil McDonald said Tomkins had the Club's blessing to join up with Team GB following this week's training camp in Austria and will return to Chadwell Heath after their tournament is over. "James travelled to Austria with us and will join up with Team GB next week," confirmed McDonald. "It's fantastic news that he has been selected for Team GB and great for him being a local lad that he'll be taking part in an Olympics in his own back yard.
"It will be a great experience for him and training with them will mean he should be fully fit when he returns to us in August. He will be training and playing games so he'll return to us match-fit and ready to start the season with us. "He was great all last season and as long as he doesn't get himself injured, we'll be delighted to see him out there representing Team GB in the Olympic Games."
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Jussi happy to be a Hammer
WHUFC.com
Jussi Jaaskelainen has told West Ham TV of his delight at being reunited with Sam Allardyce
02.07.2012
Flying Finn Jussi Jaaskelainen jetted off to West Ham United's pre-season training camp in Austria on Monday morning as he began life as a Hammer. The experienced former Finland goalkeeper joined West Ham following his departure from Bolton Wanderers, where he enjoyed an outstanding 15-year career between the sticks. The 37-year-old, who worked under Sam Allardyce and Neil McDonald and played alongside Kevin Nolan, Matt Taylor and Joey O'Brien while with the Trotters, told West Ham TV he cannot wait to get his Hammers career underway. "I'm absolutely delighted to be here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons," said Jaaskelainen. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom staff are. They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here. "He brings certain routines and that makes it a lot easier."
Having battled for a starting place at Bolton with Adam Bogdan last season, Jaaskelainen is determined to win the No1 shirt here at West Ham and re-establish himself as one of the Barclays Premier League's best goalkeepers. "At the start of pre-season, all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and get that No1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the years," he added. After spending a decade and a half in the north west, Jaaskelainen is also looking forward to starting a new phase of his life living in London. However, the Finn was quick to point out that his job will come before any sightseeing! "The main focus is playing for West Ham and to work hard for this football club and if I get to see London then that's good, but it's not my main focus. "Pre-season is a little bit different this time because I didn't play any games this year [for Bolton], so all off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again. "Normally in the off-season you're tired from playing all season, but this year is a little different so I'm pleased that we've started a week earlier than the other teams. "We have seven or eight weeks before the season starts so we should be well ready when it does."
Having helped Bolton to gain promotion and establish themselves as a Barclays Premier League force during the previous decade, Jaaskelainen is hoping to repeat that trick with West Ham. "Obviously the aim is to stay up in our first season," he said. "It's all about staying in the Premier League and bringing in more money and improve the facilities at the football club. "Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
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West Ham United in Austria - Monday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers have arrived in Austria for a six-day pre-season training camp
02.07.2012
West Ham United have touched down in the Austrian capital Vienna ahead of a six-day training camp. Having returned to pre-season training at Chadwell Heath on Sunday, the Hammers will get down to serious work under warm and sunny skies. With manager Sam Allardyce remaining in London to take care of transfer business, assistant manager Neil McDonald will lead the squad in Austria, working alongside first-team coach Wally Downes and goalkeeper coach Martyn Margetson.
A 21-man squad made the two-and-a-half hour flight on Monday, including new signings Jussi Jaaskelainen, Stephen Henderson, George McCartney and Mohamed Diame and youngsters Ravel Morrison, Dan Potts and Sebastian Lletget. After arriving at Vienna Airport at just before 1pm local time, the squad collected their luggage before boarding a coach for the 90-minute drive to the team hotel. There, having driven over to Austria on Sunday, kit manager Peter Williams and strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo, had already set-up the kit and physio rooms ahead of the players' arrival.
With less than seven weeks until West Ham's opening Barclays Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on 18 August, McDonald and his backroom staff will now begin the task of preparing the squad for the Club's return to the top flight in earnest. After a late lunch at the team hotel, which has previously been used by the likes of Spanish champions Real Madrid, Italian giants Internazionale and Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, the squad enjoyed a short rest before heading to the training pitch for their first session of the week. Throughout the week, the players will take part in a variety of water-based and pitch-based conditioning sessions devised by fitness coach Eamon Swift in conjunction with McDonald and his coaching staff. The squad will also participate in other activities during their time in Austria, such as cycling, maximising the use of the beautiful surroundings and favourable weather conditions. The trip will climax on Saturday evening when West Ham take on 23-times Austrian Bundesliga champions FK Austria Wien at the Franz Horr Stadium. Tickets for the fixture, which kicks-off at 4pm, will go on sale at the stadium from Kassa 6, West Tribune, from 2pm on matchday. All tickets are priced at 10 Euro.
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Jaaskelainen - Sam a key factor
Hammers new boy ready to fight for No.1 spot
Last Updated: July 2, 2012 9:07am
SSN
Jussi Jaaskelainen has revealed that the chance to work under Sam Allardyce was one of the main reasons behind his switch to West Ham. The Hammers agreed a deal for the goalkeeper last month after he decided to bring a 15-year spell with Bolton to an end. Jaaskelainen was managed by Allardyce for much of his time at the Reebok Stadium and had no hesitation in accepting the opportunity to work with him again. "I'm absolutely delighted to be here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons," Jaaskelainen told West Ham's official website before jetting off with the rest of the squad on Monday morning for a pre-season training camp in Austria. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom staff are. They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here. "He brings certain routines and that makes it a lot easier."
Determined
Jaaskelainen was dislodged as Bolton's first-choice keeper by Adam Bogdan last season and he is ready to compete for a place at Upton Park. "At the start of pre-season, all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and get that No.1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the years," he added. "Pre-season is a little bit different this time because I didn't play any games this year [for Bolton], so all off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again. "Normally in the off-season you're tired from playing all season, but this year is a little different so I'm pleased that we've started a week earlier than the other teams. "We have seven or eight weeks before the season starts so we should be well ready when it does."
Jaaskelainen hopes to play at West Ham for at least a couple of years and is determined to cement their Premier League status after winning promotion last season.
"Obviously the aim is to stay up in our first season," he said. "It's all about staying in the Premier League and bringing in more money and improve the facilities at the football club. "Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
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A Few Morsels To Chew On...
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
A few developments today...
* James Tomkins has been selected for the GB Olympic football squad
* Serbian midfielder Dejan Stankovic is said to be subject of a £2.5 million bid from West Ham
* A renewed joint bid to Crystal Palace is apparently being made for Zaha and Clyne
* Yakubu has signed for a Chinese outfit.
* Former Newcastle & Juventus defender Jean Alain Boumsong is said to be West Ham free transfer target from Panathanaikos
* Sporting Gijon's Alberto Botia and Spurs' William Gallas are among the alternatives, according to the Daily Mail
* Abdou Kader Mangane, the Senegalese international is said to be taking a medical at Upton Park this week. Rennes are keen to offload the midfield hitman.
* Scott Duxbury, Gianfranco Zola and Gianluca Nani are reunited at, er, Watford.
* West Ham are now at their training camp in Austria.
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Naismith likes Toffees
The Sun
Last Updated: 03rd July 2012
STEVEN NAISMITH is ready to snub West Ham and Blackburn by signing for Everton. Striker Naismith, 25, is negotiating his way out of crisis club Rangers in order to make himself a free agent. The Hammers and Rovers are both keen but the Scot prefers a move to Goodison.
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West Ham want Stankovic
By Football Italia staff
Despite pledging his future to the club at the end of last season, Dejan Stankovic is the latest Inter man linked with an exit this summer. The Nerazzurri are undergoing a period of transition this summer as they look to freshen up the playing staff as well as reduce a still sizeable wage bill. Brazilian defender Lucio rescinded his contract on Friday, whilst goalkeeper Julio Cesar and forward Diego Forlan have also been linked with departures. Stankovic is the latest who is said to be heading for the door, as West Ham reportedly consider a move for the 33-year-old. Sky Sport Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio is suggesting that the newly-returned Premier League outfit, who were paired with Clarence Seedorf last week, are interested in the Serbian international. Inter are believed to be open to handing the midfielder over to the London side, but a stumbling block may come in the €2.5m salary that Stankovic is currently on. West Ham have also been linked to young forward Luc Castaignos, who is another assured of leaving San Siro this summer.
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FORMER WEST HAM BOSS ZOLA TO BE NAMED NEW WATFORD MANAGER
Jul 02, 2012 0
Watford owner Giampaolo Pozzo has confirmed former West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola will be appointed the new manager at Vicarage Road. Pozzo, who also owns Serie A club Udinese and Spanish side Granada, acquired Watford last month and the Italian is looking to make his mark on the Championship outfit. And that will start with the appointment of Zola as Pozzo revealed to the Italian press earlier today. "Zola is the man for Watford," he told Sky Italia. "Before Gianfranco arrives, we've had to finish off some details to avoid legal problems. "It's taken a little time, but with Zola we had a verbal agreement. He will be back in London tomorrow. There should be no problem and he should be our coach." Speaking with regards to Zola's contract Pozzo added: "Two years? I can't say. We've always been convinced about Zola, we've known him for a long time." Watford also announced that their offices will be closed as of 2.45pm (BST) this afternoon for a staff meeting, which will be the first time Pozzo addresses the club's staff since completing his take-over. Zola's only club managerial experience came with West Ham, between 2008 and 2010. Despite getting sacked by the club's owners for a 17th place league finish, the Italian endeared himself to West Ham fans for encouraging an attractive style of football.
Zola also had a stint as the coach of Italy's under-21 side alongside former Chelsea teammate Pierluigi Casiraghi.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins has been named in the Team GB squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games
02.07.2012
James Tomkins has been named in the Team GB football squad for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The West Ham United defender has been rewarded for his outstanding performances throughout the 2011/12 season by being picked in the final 18-man squad by head coach and former Hammer Stuart Pearce. Tomkins, who has been capped by England at every age-group level and has appeared at two UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals, will be West Ham's sole representative at the Olympics. The 23-year-old spoke of his pride and excitement at being named in the Team GB squad for London 2012. "I am just delighted to have been included and obviously it is a great honour to be selected for such an occasion as the Olympic Games," said the No5, who scored four goals in 47 npower Championship and Play-Off appearances as West Ham gained promotion to the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt. "A lot of the boys I have played with before with England so it will be good to spend some time with them again. "It will also be great to play alongside Craig Bellamy again. He's a great player and a proper character. Ryan Giggs is a legend of the game so it would be fantastic to play alongside him too. "Obviously I will miss some of the pre-season but I will be training every day and hopefully playing regularly. With an 18-man squad there should be chances for everyone to play. "It's the first time in more than 50 years that Team GB has taken part in the Olympics so it is something I and all the other players I am sure are looking forward to. "I am grateful to West Ham for giving me the opportunity to represent Great Britain at the Olympics and I'll do my very best to represent the Club."
Team GB have twice won the Gold medal, at the first-ever Olympic football tournament in London in 1908 and again in Stockholm in 1912. However, Team GB have not competed in the competition since 1960. This summer, Pearce's side will kick-off their bid for Gold when they face Senegal in Group A at Old Trafford on 26 July. Team GB will travel to Wembley to take on United Arab Emirates on 29 July before completing the group stage with a fixture with Uruguay at the Millennium Stadium on 1 August. Sixteen teams will compete in the Olympic football tournament, with the Gold medal match taking place at Wembley on 11 August. Assistant manager Neil McDonald said Tomkins had the Club's blessing to join up with Team GB following this week's training camp in Austria and will return to Chadwell Heath after their tournament is over. "James travelled to Austria with us and will join up with Team GB next week," confirmed McDonald. "It's fantastic news that he has been selected for Team GB and great for him being a local lad that he'll be taking part in an Olympics in his own back yard.
"It will be a great experience for him and training with them will mean he should be fully fit when he returns to us in August. He will be training and playing games so he'll return to us match-fit and ready to start the season with us. "He was great all last season and as long as he doesn't get himself injured, we'll be delighted to see him out there representing Team GB in the Olympic Games."
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Jussi happy to be a Hammer
WHUFC.com
Jussi Jaaskelainen has told West Ham TV of his delight at being reunited with Sam Allardyce
02.07.2012
Flying Finn Jussi Jaaskelainen jetted off to West Ham United's pre-season training camp in Austria on Monday morning as he began life as a Hammer. The experienced former Finland goalkeeper joined West Ham following his departure from Bolton Wanderers, where he enjoyed an outstanding 15-year career between the sticks. The 37-year-old, who worked under Sam Allardyce and Neil McDonald and played alongside Kevin Nolan, Matt Taylor and Joey O'Brien while with the Trotters, told West Ham TV he cannot wait to get his Hammers career underway. "I'm absolutely delighted to be here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons," said Jaaskelainen. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom staff are. They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here. "He brings certain routines and that makes it a lot easier."
Having battled for a starting place at Bolton with Adam Bogdan last season, Jaaskelainen is determined to win the No1 shirt here at West Ham and re-establish himself as one of the Barclays Premier League's best goalkeepers. "At the start of pre-season, all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and get that No1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the years," he added. After spending a decade and a half in the north west, Jaaskelainen is also looking forward to starting a new phase of his life living in London. However, the Finn was quick to point out that his job will come before any sightseeing! "The main focus is playing for West Ham and to work hard for this football club and if I get to see London then that's good, but it's not my main focus. "Pre-season is a little bit different this time because I didn't play any games this year [for Bolton], so all off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again. "Normally in the off-season you're tired from playing all season, but this year is a little different so I'm pleased that we've started a week earlier than the other teams. "We have seven or eight weeks before the season starts so we should be well ready when it does."
Having helped Bolton to gain promotion and establish themselves as a Barclays Premier League force during the previous decade, Jaaskelainen is hoping to repeat that trick with West Ham. "Obviously the aim is to stay up in our first season," he said. "It's all about staying in the Premier League and bringing in more money and improve the facilities at the football club. "Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
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West Ham United in Austria - Monday
WHUFC.com
The Hammers have arrived in Austria for a six-day pre-season training camp
02.07.2012
West Ham United have touched down in the Austrian capital Vienna ahead of a six-day training camp. Having returned to pre-season training at Chadwell Heath on Sunday, the Hammers will get down to serious work under warm and sunny skies. With manager Sam Allardyce remaining in London to take care of transfer business, assistant manager Neil McDonald will lead the squad in Austria, working alongside first-team coach Wally Downes and goalkeeper coach Martyn Margetson.
A 21-man squad made the two-and-a-half hour flight on Monday, including new signings Jussi Jaaskelainen, Stephen Henderson, George McCartney and Mohamed Diame and youngsters Ravel Morrison, Dan Potts and Sebastian Lletget. After arriving at Vienna Airport at just before 1pm local time, the squad collected their luggage before boarding a coach for the 90-minute drive to the team hotel. There, having driven over to Austria on Sunday, kit manager Peter Williams and strength and conditioning coach Mathew Monte-Colombo, had already set-up the kit and physio rooms ahead of the players' arrival.
With less than seven weeks until West Ham's opening Barclays Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on 18 August, McDonald and his backroom staff will now begin the task of preparing the squad for the Club's return to the top flight in earnest. After a late lunch at the team hotel, which has previously been used by the likes of Spanish champions Real Madrid, Italian giants Internazionale and Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala, the squad enjoyed a short rest before heading to the training pitch for their first session of the week. Throughout the week, the players will take part in a variety of water-based and pitch-based conditioning sessions devised by fitness coach Eamon Swift in conjunction with McDonald and his coaching staff. The squad will also participate in other activities during their time in Austria, such as cycling, maximising the use of the beautiful surroundings and favourable weather conditions. The trip will climax on Saturday evening when West Ham take on 23-times Austrian Bundesliga champions FK Austria Wien at the Franz Horr Stadium. Tickets for the fixture, which kicks-off at 4pm, will go on sale at the stadium from Kassa 6, West Tribune, from 2pm on matchday. All tickets are priced at 10 Euro.
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Jaaskelainen - Sam a key factor
Hammers new boy ready to fight for No.1 spot
Last Updated: July 2, 2012 9:07am
SSN
Jussi Jaaskelainen has revealed that the chance to work under Sam Allardyce was one of the main reasons behind his switch to West Ham. The Hammers agreed a deal for the goalkeeper last month after he decided to bring a 15-year spell with Bolton to an end. Jaaskelainen was managed by Allardyce for much of his time at the Reebok Stadium and had no hesitation in accepting the opportunity to work with him again. "I'm absolutely delighted to be here under Big Sam again, having worked with him before for a few seasons," Jaaskelainen told West Ham's official website before jetting off with the rest of the squad on Monday morning for a pre-season training camp in Austria. "It happened very quickly because when my agent said that West Ham were interested I told him to sort it straight away because I know how Big Sam works, how well he looks after the players and how good his backroom staff are. They were the factors behind why I wanted to come here. "He brings certain routines and that makes it a lot easier."
Determined
Jaaskelainen was dislodged as Bolton's first-choice keeper by Adam Bogdan last season and he is ready to compete for a place at Upton Park. "At the start of pre-season, all the goalkeepers are in the same place, but obviously I want to go and get that No.1 place and keep that consistent level I have done over the years," he added. "Pre-season is a little bit different this time because I didn't play any games this year [for Bolton], so all off-season I've been looking forward to coming back and training again. "Normally in the off-season you're tired from playing all season, but this year is a little different so I'm pleased that we've started a week earlier than the other teams. "We have seven or eight weeks before the season starts so we should be well ready when it does."
Jaaskelainen hopes to play at West Ham for at least a couple of years and is determined to cement their Premier League status after winning promotion last season.
"Obviously the aim is to stay up in our first season," he said. "It's all about staying in the Premier League and bringing in more money and improve the facilities at the football club. "Hopefully I can play here for the next two or three years."
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A Few Morsels To Chew On...
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
A few developments today...
* James Tomkins has been selected for the GB Olympic football squad
* Serbian midfielder Dejan Stankovic is said to be subject of a £2.5 million bid from West Ham
* A renewed joint bid to Crystal Palace is apparently being made for Zaha and Clyne
* Yakubu has signed for a Chinese outfit.
* Former Newcastle & Juventus defender Jean Alain Boumsong is said to be West Ham free transfer target from Panathanaikos
* Sporting Gijon's Alberto Botia and Spurs' William Gallas are among the alternatives, according to the Daily Mail
* Abdou Kader Mangane, the Senegalese international is said to be taking a medical at Upton Park this week. Rennes are keen to offload the midfield hitman.
* Scott Duxbury, Gianfranco Zola and Gianluca Nani are reunited at, er, Watford.
* West Ham are now at their training camp in Austria.
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Naismith likes Toffees
The Sun
Last Updated: 03rd July 2012
STEVEN NAISMITH is ready to snub West Ham and Blackburn by signing for Everton. Striker Naismith, 25, is negotiating his way out of crisis club Rangers in order to make himself a free agent. The Hammers and Rovers are both keen but the Scot prefers a move to Goodison.
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West Ham want Stankovic
By Football Italia staff
Despite pledging his future to the club at the end of last season, Dejan Stankovic is the latest Inter man linked with an exit this summer. The Nerazzurri are undergoing a period of transition this summer as they look to freshen up the playing staff as well as reduce a still sizeable wage bill. Brazilian defender Lucio rescinded his contract on Friday, whilst goalkeeper Julio Cesar and forward Diego Forlan have also been linked with departures. Stankovic is the latest who is said to be heading for the door, as West Ham reportedly consider a move for the 33-year-old. Sky Sport Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio is suggesting that the newly-returned Premier League outfit, who were paired with Clarence Seedorf last week, are interested in the Serbian international. Inter are believed to be open to handing the midfielder over to the London side, but a stumbling block may come in the €2.5m salary that Stankovic is currently on. West Ham have also been linked to young forward Luc Castaignos, who is another assured of leaving San Siro this summer.
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FORMER WEST HAM BOSS ZOLA TO BE NAMED NEW WATFORD MANAGER
Jul 02, 2012 0
Watford owner Giampaolo Pozzo has confirmed former West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola will be appointed the new manager at Vicarage Road. Pozzo, who also owns Serie A club Udinese and Spanish side Granada, acquired Watford last month and the Italian is looking to make his mark on the Championship outfit. And that will start with the appointment of Zola as Pozzo revealed to the Italian press earlier today. "Zola is the man for Watford," he told Sky Italia. "Before Gianfranco arrives, we've had to finish off some details to avoid legal problems. "It's taken a little time, but with Zola we had a verbal agreement. He will be back in London tomorrow. There should be no problem and he should be our coach." Speaking with regards to Zola's contract Pozzo added: "Two years? I can't say. We've always been convinced about Zola, we've known him for a long time." Watford also announced that their offices will be closed as of 2.45pm (BST) this afternoon for a staff meeting, which will be the first time Pozzo addresses the club's staff since completing his take-over. Zola's only club managerial experience came with West Ham, between 2008 and 2010. Despite getting sacked by the club's owners for a 17th place league finish, the Italian endeared himself to West Ham fans for encouraging an attractive style of football.
Zola also had a stint as the coach of Italy's under-21 side alongside former Chelsea teammate Pierluigi Casiraghi.
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