Boreham Wood 1-1 West Ham United FT
WHUFC.com
Sam Baldock scores again as the Hammers are held at Meadow Park
10.07.2012
Boreham Wood v West Ham United
Pre-season match
Meadow Park
Tuesday 10 July
Kick-off: 7.30pm
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Final score - Boreham Wood 1-1 West Ham United
92 mins - There is the chance, and Maynard misses it. Morrison works Russell
low to his left with a rasping drive. The goalkeeper cannot hold on and the
ball pops out to Maynard, but the No8 cannot hit the target and his
left-foot shot flies wide. The final whistle is blown as the goal kick is
pumped upfield. The PA announcer wishes West Ham luck in the Premier League
this season. Very nice of him. Well, result-wise it's not ideal, but it's
more gametime in the players' legs and they'll go forward to Southend United
on Saturday. See you there!
91 mins - Reid picks out Potts with a crossfield pass, but his cross is cut
out.
90 mins - Into the final minute. A Boreham Wood player is down and needs the
physio on. We are going to have just one extra minute, so it's going to need
something special, and fast!
88 mins - It's been a good workout for West Ham. They've been pushed hard by
Boreham Wood tonight and it's looking like they will be settling for a draw
unless they can conjure a winner late on.
86 mins - So close to a superb winner for the Hammers! Brilliant football
involving Turgott, Morrison and Potts before Taylor swings over an
inch-perfect cross for Nolan. The No4 usually buries them, but instead his
header bounces down off the underside of the crossbar, the inside of the
post and out! Chambers tries to convert the rebound, but his acrobatic
effort flies over.
84 mins - The ball drops to Effiong in the box and he swings his left foot
at it, but the shot goes out of the ground. Groans from the home fans, who
could see his eyes lighting up and a shock win for the hosts!
83 mins - The home coaching staff are sensing a bit of an upset here and are
barking out instructions to their players. Wearen has to make a strong
challenge on the edge of his own penalty area before a shot takes a
deflection and loops high into the air before being caught by Larkins.
82 mins - Reynolds is replaced by Sam Doolan.
81 mins - Into the final ten minutes. Can West Ham find a winner? Nolan
tries to pick out the run of Maynard, but Russell is out quickly to clear
into the stand.
79 mins - West Ham break and Maynard's shot is deflected wide, but the
corner is easily headed clear.
78 mins - Chambers defends well this time, blocking Hutton's cross behind.
The corner comes over and Nolan heads clear. The ball comes back in and
Larkins makes a fine and brave stop to block Reynolds' shot. The follow-up
effort is screwed wide.
76 mins - Of the West Ham players on show since the break, Chambers and
Turgott have combined well down the right. Nolan has put himself about, too.
75 mins - It's Hastings on for home skipper Mario Noto.
74 mins - Potts gets to the byline, but he was at full pelt and his
first-time cross is a bit deep. Nolan makes something of it with his head,
but the ball loops into the arms of the goalkeeper. Another Wood sub will be
on shortly...
73 mins - West Ham are back in charge, but they are not working Russell as
hard as they would like, I'm sure.
70 mins - Turgott is getting involved more and more, but his first two
crosses are too close to Russell before he is stopped trying to dribble
through the middle of the home defence. Check out an exclusive photo gallery
from tonight's game here.
65 mins - Action at both ends! First, Larkins is out smartly to defy Effiong
before the Hammers break and Russell makes a decent save with his feet to
deny Maynard. From the resulting corner, the cross is just in front of
Wearen at the far post.
61 mins - Scott-Morris and Close are on for Nunn and Riza.
59 mins - Boreham Wood are preparing substitutes Lee Close and Harvey
Scott-Morris.
58 mins - Better. Morrison, Potts and Nolan are all involved before O'Neil
finds Turgott, whose cross is blocked. Meanwhile, Vaz Te has a crowd around
him on the touchline as he signs autographs.
57 mins - While it is pre-season, West Ham will want to win this game for
their pride, more than anything. Captain Nolan is shouting out instructions
to his colleagues.
55 mins - O'Neil is penalised for an aerial challenge. Hutton swings the
free-kick in and West Ham scramble the ball away. The non-league side are on
the front foot.
54 mins - You can see the goal has given the Wood a confidence boost, as it
always seem to when a side score. The nature of the goal was the most
annoying aspect, as it was avoidable. Effiong did finish it well, though.
51 mins - GOAL! Effiong scores. Wearen's backpass is easily cut out by Riza
and he draws Reid before finding the unmarked Effiong, who confidently slams
the ball past Larkins and into the net.
50 mins - Morrison is seeing plenty of the ball already. He swings a pass
out right to Chambers, whose cross is won in the air by Nolan, but the
header loops wide.
48 mins - Wearen makes a sliding challenge on Effiong and West Ham break.
Morrison turns and makes 25 yards before trying to slide in Maynard, but the
striker is eased out by Garrard. Goal kick.
47 mins - This will be a real test for the Blue Square Bet South side
against a totally fresh Hammers XI. The fresh Wood player, Effiong, is HUGE!
He must be 6'4 tall at least.
46 mins - West Ham nearly double their lead straight away as Nolan gets in
behind. He prods the ball past the goalkeeper, but Maynard cannot get there
in time to finish and the hosts clear.
The hosts also make a change, with Buchanan being replaced by Inih Effiong.
So, after half-time we'll see the likes of Nolan, Maynard Taylor and O'Neil,
but it's a big evening for goalkeeper Jake Larkins, defender Leo Chambers
and Blair Turgott. Fitness coach Eamon Swift is out there putting the
Second-half XI through their warm-up...
Half-time score - Boreham Wood 0-1 West Ham United
46 mins - Into the one minute of added time... A promising West Ham attack
peters out after superb defensive play from Ruddock and the half-time
whistle is blown to warm applause from, among others, the local Mayor!
45 mins - Noble rolls the free-kick sideways to Vaz Te, but he is closed
down quickly and his shot lacks power.
44 mins - First-half positives are the goal from Baldock, the lively
wingplay from Fanimo - who has just won another free-kick - and assured
displays from a predominantly young back four. Ruddock has also caught the
eye at times on his big night.
43 mins - Half-time is nearly upon us and the hordes of West Ham
replacements are out warming up on the touchline. Boreham Wood are probing
again. Buchanan loses his marker with a neat bit of trickery, but his shot
takes a nick and rolls harmlessly through to Jaaskelainen.
41 mins - Vaz Te runs at Nunn again before finding Baldock. He elects to
shoot but his attempted curler is off-target. Goal kick.
40 mins - A slight break in play as Pelly Ruddock has the physio on. He's
soon back on, is the captain.
38 mins - Jaaskelainen in action again! This time, the No22 dives low to his
left to push aside a drive from left-back Mark Jones. The ball falls to a
West Ham player and the Hammers break. Fanimo beats one man before shooting
a couple of yards over the top.
36 mins - Shows how much I know! Montgomery lets fly from the corner of the
penalty area and Jaaskelainen makes a decent stop. West Ham break but Vaz Te
is run out of it by Nunn. The right-back has really stuck to his task
against the Wembley hero.
34 mins - The Hammers have taken the upper hand since the goal. They win
another free-kick, but Noble's delivery is too close to Russell, who catches
well down low.
32 mins - There he goes again, running on to Noble's short, low free-kick
and seeing his shot blocked behind. Noble's corner is headed clear. The No16
gets another go and Luke Garrard is there to head clear.
31 mins - Baldock never stops moving. If you watch him, he is constantly
running along the opposition back four looking for space and an area to spin
into to receive a through ball. Defender Reynolds decides the best way to
stop this is to trip him up. Free-kick to West Ham...
27 mins - GOAL! Baldock has his goal now! Vaz Te is sent clear down the
middle and looks favourite to shoot himself. Instead, he cuts inside on to
his right foot and slides the ball sideways for the unmarked Baldock. The
No7 shoots and his effort takes a slight deflection off a defender on its
way past Russell. Two in two for Baldock!
24 mins - Good battling work from Moncur to win the ball back in midfield.
He pokes it forward to Vaz Te, who dribbles before finding Baldock on the
edge of the box. The striker adjusts well to hit the shot first-time and it
beats Russell but cannons away off the left-hand post! So close to a second
pre-season goal in two games for Baldock. Ruddock tries to keep the attack
going but is crowded out.
22 mins - Another attack from the hosts and this time Kenzer Lee heads clear
from inside his own penalty area. The young Hammers just need to settle down
and be a little more careful in possession. You can hear the likes of Noble
encouraging them to do just that.
21 mins - And they arguably should be ahead. The corner finds centre-back
Callum Reynolds completely unmarked about 12 yards out. He rises, cranes his
neck and powers the header a yard over the top. Good chance to at least work
Jaaskelainen, that...
20 mins - Vaz Te has the physio on for a knock on the head, but it's nothing
serious and he's back on after some magic sponge treatment. Boreham Wood win
another corner. They've more than held their own so far.
17 mins - Vaz Te tries to run right-back Nunn, but the defender sticks to
his task well and nicks possession. Good battle, that. It was Fanimo again
with the through ball. Playing on the right, the left-footed England U18
winger looks a real threat.
14 mins - Fantastic chance for Ruddock on his big night. Fanimo curls over a
superb cross and the No15 is all alone in the middle of the penalty area. He
elects to volley instead of controlling and gets it a bit wrong. The Wood
clear. Shame for Ruddock.
12 mins - Hutton picks up a loose ball in midfield, brings it forward 20
yards and shoots, but Spence and Lee combine to make the block.
11 mins - The dugout is not quite big enough for the Hammers, who are lined
up along the touchline in front of me. Kevin Nolan is smiling as he signs
some autographs and poses for photos with fans. Fanimo crosses low, but the
ball is cleared at the near post.
9 mins - The sun is now shining. You couldn't make this weather up!
7 mins - Now the Wood have a corner as Riza's shot is deflected well wide.
The corner is fired in low by Montgomery but the shot is high and over the
crossbar and out of the stadium from midfielder Isaac.
6 mins - Oooh! McCartney gets forward down the left, draws a defender and
finds Vaz Te. He does a few step-overs before laying the ball back for
Moncur to strike first-time. It's curling slightly away from Russell, but
the keeper dives to his left to push the ball away. Good strike, good save.
The hosts clear.
5 mins - That's smart work from the goalkeeper. Spence is challenged by Riza
in the air and the ball drops down behind the defender, but Jaaskelainen is
out fast to dive on the wet turf and make the catch before the striker can
pounce on it.
3 mins - A first attack from Boreham Wood ends with an overhit through ball
that Jaaskelainen is out to collect low down. It's a first West Ham start
for the Finn after he appeared as a substitute at FK Austria Wien on
Saturday.
2 mins - Vaz Te wins a corner. Noble curls the ball over to the near post
where Vaz Te slides in and helps the ball on. Kenzer Lee attacks the ball at
the far post but his effort on the stretch is wide. Unlucky for the
youngster.
1 min - West Ham will want to get through the game with no injuries and Vaz
Te doesn't look happy as he is felled by right-back Nunn. Free-kick.
7.30pm - Boreham Wood get the game underway...
7.29pm - Pelly Ruddock has a big smile on his face as he shakes hands with
his ex-team-mates. It's a proud night for the teenager.
7.26pm - Assistant manager for the day Rob Burgess-Allen is in the Away
dugout with Neil McDonald, Big Sam and Martyn Margetson. Here come the two
teams...
7.23pm - The two West Ham teams have headed back inside, but a small number
of players have joined Joint Chairman David Gold in parading the Play-Off
trophy around the pitch. Dan Potts, Winston Reid, Matt Taylor and Nicky
Maynard are there with Mr Gold as the rain has, thankfully, relented.
7.15pm - The plan is for the Second half XI to parade the npower
Championship Play-Off trophy before kick-off. If that remains the plan, it
might get a bit wet!
7.05pm - It was sunny when we got here. It is now absolutely bucketing down,
as you can see from the pictures in our official Facebook site gallery here.
6.50pm - Pelly Ruddock, who joined West Ham from Boreham Wood midway through
last season, has the honour of captaining the Hammers tonight. Nice touch
from Big Sam. Kevin Nolan will skipper the side after half-time.
6.45pm - OK, we have the teams. West Ham United will again field two
different XIs in each half.
First half XI: Jaaskelainen, Driver, McCartney, Spence, K.Lee, Noble,
Moncur, Ruddock, Fanimo, Vaz Te, Baldock
Second half XI: Larkins, Chambers, Wearen, Reid, Potts, Morrison, O'Neil,
Turgott, Taylor, Nolan, Maynard
Subs: Baxter, Shaw, Powell
6.05pm - Many of the West Ham players have already arrived at Meadow Park.
The likes of Mark Noble, Ricardo Vaz Te and Jussi Jaaskelainen are here, as
are Sam Baldock, Jordan Spence and Nicky Maynard, who have been out for a
stroll on what looks to be an immaculate playing surface.
Good evening and welcome to Hertfordshire for West Ham United's second
pre-season fixture ahead of the 2012/13 Barclays Premier League campaign.
The Hammers will take on Blue Square Bet South side Boreham Wood tonight,
with a bumper crowd expected at Meadow Park for the Club's first pre-season
game on British soil.
On Saturday, West Ham completed their first week back in training by facing
Austrian Bundesliga side FK Austria Wien in Vienna, going down to a 3-1
defeat despite Sam Baldock's fourth-minute goal giving them the lead. In the
end, having been back in training themselves for three weeks, the hosts'
superior fitness shone through.
Tonight, manager Sam Allardyce will be back in the dugout after spending
last week working on bringing in new recruits. Just as Neil McDonald did in
Vienna, Big Sam is expected to experiment this evening while giving his
players more valuable game time in the run up to the big kick-off at home to
Aston Villa on 18 August.
Joining Big Sam and McDonald will be Rob Burgess-Allen, the lucky supporter
who successfully bid to become Assistant Manager for the Day at last
season's Awards Dinner. Burgess-Allen has been with the squad all day at
Chadwell Heath, travelled with the squad on the team coach and is in the
dressing room pre and post-match.
Among the players in West Ham's squad tonight is midfielder Pelly Ruddock.
The teenager joined the Hammers from Boreham Wood last winter after coming
through the non-league club's PASE (Programme for Academic and Sporting
Excellence) scheme.
Boreham Wood, for their part, finished eighth in the Blue Square Bet South
table last season. The most recognisable name in the hosts' squad is Omer
Riza, a midfielder who spent two-and-a-half years with West Ham between 1999
and 2002 but did not make a first-team appearance for the Club.
Formed in 1948, the Wood have spent the majority of their existence in the
Isthmian League, gaining promotion to Blue Square Bet South via the Isthmian
League Premier Division Play-Offs in 2010.
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Big Sam welcomes new assistant
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is preparing for his first game in charge this season with
some help from an unusual source
10.07.2012
Sam Allardyce is excited about taking charge of his first West Ham United
game this pre-season against Boreham Wood tonight as he welcomes a new
assistant manager to his coaching team. Rob Burgess-Allen won the right to
be Big Sam's right-hand man for the day during the auction at the Player
Awards back in May and arrived at Chadwell Heath early on Tuesday in a
chauffeur-driven Bentley to prepare for the game with the squad. Regular
assistant manager Neil McDonald will be on hand to offer some words of
wisdom to Rob, whose new boss thinks it will offer a good taste of what goes
on behind-the-scenes on a matchday. "Rob can get a bit of insight and be
close to the way we prepare and do things at this stage of the season, which
is a lot more relaxed than later on in the season when the games are coming
thick and fast," Allardyce said. "I'm looking for him to be a good
communicator and introduce himself to the lads. He should just enjoy himself
and enjoy the fact that he's helping the Academy by bidding for the prize
and I hope he get value from what he has done. We'll welcome him and
hopefully give him a good day to remember. "I'm looking forward to seeing
Rob arrive in his chauffeur-driven Bentley to see the look on Neil
McDonald's face to say 'Why do I never get treated like that?'"
The match has been arranged as part of the transfer of Development Squad
midfielder Pelly Ruddock from The Wood to West Ham in December. As such, it
is expected that Big Sam will start with a strong team at Meadow Park,
before introducing some younger players such Ruddock, Kenzer Lee, Leo
Chambers and Blair Turgott later on in the game. "It's going to be a good
day as we got one of their young players in and part of the deal was to play
a pre-season game. As early as this is, it's good for the first-team squad
to get in another 45 minutes. It helps Boreham Wood and it helps our lads in
their preparation."
With the Hammers' trip to Austria last week focusing on intensive training
work, Big Sam stayed in the UK to focus on securing more new faces for West
Ham's Barclays Premier League return. He was in regular contact with
McDonald and the coaching staff and was pleased with the progress the team
made while they were there. "Everyone seems to be moving along quite well.
There was a small incident with Guy Demel got caught in the eye but he
should be back in a couple of days.
"Right now, our main is to improve the quality of the squad and get some new
faces in as quickly as possible. That has been the most difficult task of
the summer."
West Ham United have been allocated 2,250 tickets for tonight's game, which
kicks-off at 7.30pm. Tickets are available on the gate from £16 for adults
and £10 concessions. Please see whufc.com's ticket news page for more
information.
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Boreham Wood 1 West Ham Utd 1
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Little Sam once again staked a claim for a place in Big Sam'a first team
plans for next season when he grabbed a second goal inside a week at Meadow
Park tonight.
The former MK Dons striker, who endured a frustrating second half of last
season after he was constantly overlooked followed up his goal against
Austria Wien on Saturday with another against the Conference South side
tonight. However Baldock's goal still wasn't enough to produce a win as West
Ham stuttered against the plucky non-leaguers, who were unlucky not to grab
a surprise win from the game. In the end the home side had to settle for a
draw despite looking more the more likely to grab a winner, after Inih
Effiong capitalised on a mistake by Eoin Wearen to score the home side's
goal just six minutes into the second half.
We'll have more details from Meadow Park for you shortly...
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen (Larkins 46), Driver (Chambers 46), McCartney
(Potts 46), Spence (Reid 46), K.Lee (Wearen 46), Noble (Taylor 46), Moncur
(O'Neil 46), Ruddock (Morrison 46), Fanimo (Turgott 46), Vaz Te (Nolan 46),
Baldock (Maynard 46).
Subs not used: Baxter, Shaw, Powell.
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CK-R on trial
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have taken former Sheffield United striker Colin Kazim-Richards on
trial. The Leytonstone-born forward, a former Arsenal youth team player has
joined the Hammers at Chadwell Heath this week in order that Sam Allarcye
may run the rule over him. Now 25, Kazim-Ricards has been playing abroad for
the last five years having moved from Sheffield United to Fenerbahce in
2007. Having spent three-and-a-half mostly successful years in Turkey he was
shipped off to French club Toulouse on loan in January 2010, having fallen
out with then-Fenerbahce boss Cristoph Daum following a much-publicised car
accident. After returning to Turkey, Kazim-Richards spent the first half of
the 2010/11 campaign back with Fenerbahce before they terminated his
contract - upon which, he moved to fellow Turkish club Galatasaray. However
after just half a season with Gala - during which he scored against his
former club - he moved to Greece in order to join Olympiakos on loan for the
second half of the 2011/12 campaign. Despite having the option to make the
dela pemanent this summer Kazim-Richards was not retained by the
Piraeus-based club and has since returned to Turkey, since when he has been
invited to West Ham for a trial. Whilst he is not expected to feature at
Boreham Wood tonight, Kazim-Richards could make an appearance for the
Hammers when they travel to Southend this weekend.
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Allardyce: my 'difficult' transfer window
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has admitted that his search for new players this summer has
been a frustrating experience. The West Ham boss, who takes his team for the
first time in pre-season this evening when they visit non-league Boreham
Wood told whufc.com that he had endured a 'difficult' time trying to make
additions to the squad that won a return to the top flight via the play-off
Final in May. Having been linked with a whole host of potential signings
since the beginning of June, Allardyce, who remained in the UK last week
whilst the first team squad travelled to Austria, has managed to bag four
players - not one of whom has commanded anything more than a nominal
transfer fee. Goalkeepers Stephen Henderson and Jussi Jaaskelainen, former
loanee George McCartney and ex-Wigan midfielder Momo Diame have all joined
the squad for next season, however Allardyce readily admits that his squad
still requires further improvement. "Right now, our main aim is to improve
the quality of the squad and get some new faces in as quickly as possible,"
he said. "That has been the most difficult task of the summer."
Looking ahead to tonight's game, which was arranged as part of the deal that
took young midfielder Pelly Ruddock from Boreham Wood to West Ham last
winter, Allardyce believes that the match will be a good exercise for his
players who only returned from their midsummer break ten days ago. "As early
as this is, it's good for the first-team squad to get in another 45
minutes," said Allardyce, who will be taking a full-strength squad to Meadow
Park tonight. "It helps Boreham Wood and it helps our lads in their
preparation. It's going to be a good day."
* Guy Demel, who travelled with the squad to Austria last week but didn't
feature against Austria Wien on Saturday missed out as the result of a minor
injury. "There was a small incident with Guy [who] got caught in the eye,
but he should be back in a couple of days," revealed Allardyce.
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Big Sam eyes more additions
Boss still working on 'improving quality' of Hammers squad
Last Updated: July 10, 2012 5:27pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce is keen to add more new faces to his West Ham squad 'as
quickly as possible' as they prepare for their return to the Premier League.
The Hammers have already brought in four fresh signings with the captures of
goalkeepers Jussi Jaaskelainen and Stephen Henderson, midfielder Mohamed
Diame and defender George McCartney. But manager Allardyce says he has not
finished bolstering his squad, with several out-of-contract players having
already left. He told the club's official website: "Right now, our main
(aim) is to improve the quality of the squad and get some new faces in as
quickly as possible. "That has been the most difficult task of the summer."
West Ham have been linked with a host of targets ahead of their return to
the top-flight following promotion last season, including Inter Milan
veteran Dejan Stankovic and Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku.
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Can You Imagine Andy Carroll in Claret & Blue?
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
The rumours have been circulating all evening, and tomorrow's Daily Mail has
the story that West Ham are trying to secure the services of England striker
Andy Carroll on a year long loan. Yes, you read that right. It will no doubt
be seen by some as the owners giving us all hope that a star player is about
to be signed, only for it to come to nowt, but according to Lee Clayton, a
football journalist and Hammers fan, they are deadly serious.
As it happens, I am quite a fan of Carroll. He has had a torrid time at
Liverpool. mainly because he was never played in the right position. His
record at Newcastle shows what he is capable of. OK, many of his goals were
in the Championship, but he scored 14 in 33 Premier League appearances for
Newcastle, which is a good record. Six in 42 for Liverpool is not so
impressive. But to balance that, he's scored 6 in 18 England games at all
levels and 2 in 7 full internationals.
After the season he had last year, his performances at Euro 2012 were highly
creditable and it was obvious to see that no defender relished playing
against him.
Do I think he would come to West Ham? In all honesty, no I don't. But
stranger things have happened. I suspect much might depend on what kind of
relationship he enjoyed with Sam Allardyce when he was at Newcastle.
Allardyce picked him 4 times but then packed him off on loan to Preston
where he only scored 1 goal in 11 games. And then of course, we should
remember that Kevin Nolan is his best mate.
* There are also rumours that a deal for a foreign striker has been agreed.
No idea who.
* Sam Baldock scored in the 1-1 draw at Borehamwood earlier - his second
goal in two games.
UPDATE: Here's an extract from the Mail piece...
West Ham are set to launch an ambitious bid for England striker Andy
Carroll. Sam Allardyce wants to make a marquee signing ahead of his club's
return to the Barclays Premier League and West Ham's owners are prepared to
break their budget for the Liverpool No 9. However, they face stiff
competition from Fulham, who are prepared to offer Clint Dempsey plus cash
as part of any deal, while there is also interest from Italy. West Ham are
proposing an initial loan with a view to buying Carroll for around
£15million. That would represent a huge loss for Liverpool, who signed the
forward for £35m in January 2011.
But Carroll, 23, is facing an uncertain future at Anfield after Liverpool
manager Brendan Rodgers refused to dismiss the idea he could leave on loan.
Significantly, Rodgers would not give any assurances about Carroll's future
when presented with the opportunity on Monday and a switch to Upton Park
could prove enticing. Allardyce's style of play would suit Carroll, while he
would also link up with close friend and former Newcastle captain Kevin
Nolan.
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Colin Kazim-Richards on Trial, as the Joselu Speculation Resurfaces!
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Kumb have reported that West Ham have taken former Sheffield United forward
Colin Kazim-Richards on trial. Kazim-Richards has been playing abroad for
the last five years, having moved from Sheffield United to Fenerbahce in
2007. Still only 25 years of age, the Leytonstone born forward has been
invited to the club's Chadwell Heath training base so that West Ham can
assess the player's fitness and form. Finally, the Joselu from Real Madrid
speculation has resurfaced. Allegedly, the club are prepared to go up to £6m
in order to capture the German born centre-forward. Originally, Real Madrid
wanted £7m, but it is reported that West Ham are trying to cut a deal with
the Spanish giants. I think it is a case of believing it when we see it
happen!
SJ. Chandos.
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Sam's a Carr dealer
The Sun
By PHIL THOMAS
Last Updated: 11th July 2012
ANDY CARROLL is a sensational transfer target for West Ham's Sam Allardyce.
But the £35million hitman insisted last night he aims to stay at Liverpool
to fight for his place. Boss Brendan Rodgers had revealed he is ready to
loan out the Anfield record buy. Italian giants AC Milan are keen, but
Hammers owner David Sullivan believes it would be the perfect opportunity to
reunite the Geordie hitman with ex-Newcastle manager Allardyce. Sullivan is
backing a season-long loan even though they may have to pay his
£80,000-a-week wages. However, the Hammers will hope they can strike a deal
similar to Manchester City's arrangement with Spurs over Emmanuel Adebayor
last season. Another key player in the deal will be West Ham skipper Kevin
Nolan, who is Carroll's best mate from their Newcastle days. But last night
a close friend of Carroll's revealed: "There is no chance of Andy leaving
Liverpool. He is staying put. "So AC Milan can forget it and he won't be
going back to Newcastle or joining West Ham either — on loan or otherwise."
Carroll, 23, has failed to make a big impact on Merseyside and scored only
four goals last season. Rodgers said on Monday: "A loan is something I would
have to look at. It can benefit the club in the long term." Roma have
confirmed Liverpool are interested in Italy striker Fabio Borini. The ace,
21, worked with Rodgers at Chelsea's Academy and Swansea. Roma director
Walter Sabatini said: "There is a real interest from Liverpool."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Clyne to fly from Eagles
The Sun
Published: 10th July 2012
CRYSTAL PALACE have admitted defeat in their bid to keep Nathaniel Clyne and
are ready to offload the wantaway defender. The right-back, 21, is out of
contract at Selhurst Park but the Eagles will still receive a compensation
fee due to his age. Manchester United, Newcastle and West Ham have all been
linked with the England Under-21 star. Palace chairman Steve Parish said:
"We need to do a deal with Clyne. "There is a bit of action in the
background and we know there is a lot of interest. "It is just about sorting
out who it is best to go to and who will put the right money on the table.
We're all working to get an outcome. "Clubs don't want to go down the
tribunal route. It is a game of cat and mouse on the fee — we've just got to
let that play out."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cockney Carroll! West Ham plotting shock one-year loan swoop for big Andy
The Mirror
Andy Carroll is ready to fight for his Anfield future...despite becoming a
sensational target for West Ham. The London club have joined the chase to
capture the England striker, and believe they have a trump card over AC
Milan, who have also expressed their admiration for the Liverpool forward.
Route one natural: Carroll could stick his head on it for Big Sam at West
Ham Carroll's best mate and mentor is Hammers midfielder Kevin Nolan, and
boss Sam Allardyce believes that relationship could tip the balance in his
favour. Senior figures at West Ham confirmed they are ready to approach
Liverpool with a proposal for a year-long loan deal for a player who played
under Allardyce at Newcastle. The stumbling block would be money, with West
Ham unlikely to be able to afford wages that are around the £80,000 a week
mark - a figure that would present few problems for Milan. New Reds manager
Brendan Rodgers has admitted he will assess whether Carroll can fit into his
plans over the coming pre-season weeks, and prove he can operate in the new
system that will be adopted at Anfield.
Rodgers revealed earlier this week he could be persuaded to let the centre
forward go out on loan, with Milan the most likely destination given their
ability to pay the full amount of the striker's wages. Yet Carroll himself
has responded to suggestions his future at Liverpool is again under
pressure, by insisting he is prepared to fight for the right to be there
once more. The striker spent much of last year battling against the
skepticism of then manager Kenny Dalglish, who - according to Manchester
City - tried to arrange a swap deal involving Carlos Tevez last winter. That
arrangement fell through, and Carroll responded with some fine end of the
season form to not only revive his Anfield fortunes, but also force himself
into the England squad to play a role at Euro 2012. An impressive goal
against Sweden seemed to have settled his Reds future, but apparently cut
little ice with Rodgers, who wants to move away from a 4-4-2 formation, and
introduce a free-flowing three man forward line, without a traditional
centre forward.
The Liverpool boss is close to pulling off a deal to bring exciting young
Italian forward Fabio Borini to Anfield, and is also interested in Chelsea
striker Daniel Sturridge. While that suggests there is little chance of
regular games for Carroll at Anfield, sources close to the player have
insisted he will not leave without a fight, and is ready to scrap for the
chance show his new manager what he can do. The player has spoken at length
with Rodgers already, and expressed his desire to stay, even though the
manager made clear his preference for a progression towards a different
style at Anfield. Milan have confirmed their interest and already
investigated the prospect of a loan deal, but there is no enthusiasm from
within the Carroll camp for a move to Italy, and that could offer West Ham
some hope, given the player's close relationship with Nolan. Liverpool would
be more comfortable with letting Carroll go to a foreign club, reducing the
prospect of him returning to haunt them in the Premier League. They already
have a relationship with AC after agreeing a year long loan deal for Alberto
Aquilani last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jaaskelainen makes bow for West Ham as Big Sam's side draw at Boreham Wood
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 02:54, 11 July 2012 | UPDATED: 02:55, 11 July 2012
Daily Mail
Jussi Jaaskelainen made his West Ham bow as Sam Allardyce's side were held
to a 1-1 draw in a pre-season friendly at Boreham Wood. Sam Baldock followed
up his goal in the 3-1 defeat to Austria Vienna with the opening strike
after 27 minutes, finishing off some fine work from the lively Ricardo Va
Te. Despite being in control for much for the game, the Hammers - who
fielded two different sides for each half - were pegged back after the break
with Inih Effiong punishing some lacklustre defending.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce wants to sign Liverpool's Andy Carroll for West Ham
• West Ham believed to want England striker on loan
• Permanent transfer for £15m could follow
Share 38
Staff and agencies
The Guardian, Wednesday 11 July 2012
Sam Allardyce is believed to be about to make a bid for Liverpool's England
striker Andy Carroll. West Ham are proposing an initial loan with a view to
buying the 23-year-old for around £15m who signed from Newcastle United for
£35m in January, 2011. West Ham, returning to the Premier League after their
relegation last year, may face opposition for Carroll from a number of other
clubs after reports emerged suggesting Liverpool had let it be known that
they were willing to listen to offers for the player.
Brendan Rodgers, the Liverpool manager, said on Monday that the possibility
of loaning Carroll is "something I would have to look at" although he did
indicate that he would give the forward time to see if he would fit into his
plans at Anfield.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Now Hammers want Liverpool's Carroll! Big Sam seeks loan deal for Kop misfit
By SIMON JONES and DOMINIC KING
PUBLISHED: 22:50, 10 July 2012 | UPDATED: 22:50, 10 July 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham are set to launch an ambitious bid for England striker Andy
Carroll. Sam Allardyce wants to make a marquee signing ahead of his club's
return to the Barclays Premier League and West Ham's owners are prepared to
break their budget for the Liverpool No 9. However, they face stiff
competition from Fulham, who are prepared to offer Clint Dempsey plus cash
as part of any deal, while there is also interest from Italy. West Ham are
proposing an initial loan with a view to buying Carroll for around
£15million. That would represent a huge loss for Liverpool, who signed the
forward for £35m in January 2011. But Carroll, 23, is facing an uncertain
future at Anfield after Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers refused to
dismiss the idea he could leave on loan. Fulham could yet hold a trump card
with Dempsey as Rodgers is a confirmed admirer of the USA forward, who is in
the final 12 months of his contract at Craven Cottage. The interest from
Italy in Carroll, who is on holiday, is not just from AC Milan but it is
debatable whether a move to Serie A would appeal to him. Carroll, who has
scored 11 goals in 59 appearances for Liverpool, has not given any
indication he wants to leave Merseyside but may struggle for regular starts
in Rodgers' new regime.
Significantly, Rodgers would not give any assurances about Carroll's future
when presented with the opportunity on Monday and a switch to Upton Park
could prove enticing. Allardyce's style of play would suit Carroll, while he
would also link up with close friend and former Newcastle captain Kevin
Nolan. Rodgers is expected to make Fabio Borini his first signing in a £10m
deal after Roma confirmed Liverpool's interest. The new Kop boss is just as
keen on tying down Luis Suarez, whose deal runs to June 2016. Liverpool want
to extend his contract and increase his £80,000-a-week pay to be in line
with the club's highest earners. When asked if the club were any closer to
announcing Suarez's new deal, Rodgers said: 'We hope so. He has really
bought into what we are trying to do. He was really excited about how we
played at Swansea last year.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
*********NOT STRICTLY WEST HAM RELATED ***************
Prem captains accused in betting scam
Saints legend Lundekvam reveals 'fraud'
The Sun
By DAN KING, Sport Uncovered
Last Updated: 11th July 2012
A SENSATIONAL betting scandal rocked the Premier League last night. Former
Southampton captain Claus Lundekvam has blown the lid on systematic fraud by
top-flight players. The stars made thousands of pounds by spot-fixing — just
like the three jailed Pakistan cricketers. Lundekvam, 39, insists other
Premier League skippers colluded with the betting scam. In a series of
startling interviews in his native Norway, Lundekvam claimed that he and
fellow Saints aces raked in thousands betting on their own games — for a
spell, doing it 'almost every week'. He alleged they used club staff to put
big stakes on incidents like the first throw-in or corner, that they
conspired with captains from opposing teams to ensure the bets came off and
that the problem was rife in a Premier League where players lived in a
'bubble'.
Lundekvam, who played for Saints from 1996 to 2008 and won 40 Norway caps,
said: "It's not something I'm proud of. "For a while we did this almost
every week. We made a fair bit of money. We could make deals with the
opposing captain about, for example, betting on the first throw, the first
corner, who started with the ball, a yellow card or a penalty. "Those were
the sorts of thing we had influence over."
But Lundekvam insisted he and his team-mates had never doctored the result
of a game. He added: "The results were never on the agenda. That is
something I would never have done. We were professional competitors. Even
though what we did, of course, was illegal, it was just a fun thing." The
English and global football authorities, not to mention the police and the
Premier League's millions of fans worldwide, are unlikely to take the same
view. Betting on penalties, in particular, would take the fixing into new
territory since the outcome of matches would clearly be affected if a goal
was scored. And Lundekvam, who fell into cocaine and alcohol abuse after
retiring in 2008, insists it was not just Saints players who were breaking
the law and FA rules. He declared: "I know it happened at other clubs as
well. "We footballers live in a bubble. It was part of the lifestyle and the
excitement. Whatever we could bet on, we bet on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
We made deals with opposing captains every single week
The Sun
By DAN KING, Sport Uncovered
Last Updated: 11th July 2012
WHEN Southampton legend Matt Le Tissier claimed he had taken part in a
failed betting coup, some in English football treated it as a bit of a joke.
Good old Le Tiss, they thought. A God on the pitch but he could not even
pull off a simple scam with a throw-in. But no one should be laughing any
more. Because the alleged incident in 1995 against Wimbledon was not a
one-off. It now appears spot-fixing was rife. Not only at Southampton, but
throughout the Premier League. And with the continuing expansion in legal
and illegal betting markets all over the world, the suspicion must be that
it is still going on. And that all the football folk who slammed cricket
corruption when the News of the World exposed the Pakistan cheats need to
take a long, hard look at their own game. Claus Lundekvam became a
Southampton hero having arrived at The Dell to play alongside Le Tissier a
year after the Wimbledon match. Now he may be remembered as the man who
exposed another of English football's dirty little secrets. And one of the
most shocking things about his account of spot-fixing is... how easy it all
was. The former Norway international said: "It's something I was involved in
for a number of years in England. "I bet on my own matches. There were often
several players who put money in the pot — several hundred pounds each,
sometimes a thousand each. "We would then give the money to one of the staff
who would put the money on for us, so we didn't have to do it ourselves and
so create suspicion. We would bet for example on the first throw-in. "We
would have an agreement with the opposing team that whoever had the kick-off
would pass the ball back to a defender who would then play it forward down
the channel where an opposing defender would kick the ball out for a
throw-in. "It's a pretty normal start to a game, no one would have suspected
and it was very easy for us to control the little things like that. "We
could make deals with the opposing captain in relating to betting on the
first throw, the first corner, who started with the ball, a yellow card, a
penalty. "For a while we did this almost every week." His claims of
conspiracy with players on other teams imply widespread corruption. And
Lundekvam is adamant that Southampton players were not the only ones
breaking FA rules and the law of the land by betting on matches in which
they were involved. He added: "I'm not proud of being part of this. "We were
far from alone in this but that doesn't help. I know it happened at other
clubs. It was accepted... in matches at the end of the 1990s. "The bookies
were open to betting on these kind of things and it was easy for us to
manipulate. "I do not think it was sporting or morally right for us to do
what we did. But we had a chance to do it then, and that's just how it was.
"Even though what we did was illegal, it was quite fun to be part of. "We
made a fair amount of money on this. I can't really remember how much. But
we made money on it even though the odds weren't always high. "Even when the
odds weren't high, they were safe bets." But were the players not earning
enough money as players in one of the richest leagues in the world?
Lundekvam, now 39, said: "Yes, absolutely. We footballers live in a bubble.
"We are betting all the time when we are together, whether it's card games
on the bus or something else. "It's part of our lifestyle, the adrenalin and
the excitement. Whatever we could bet on, we bet on it." Stories of players
like Steve Claridge losing hundreds of thousands on the horses and rows
between England stars over card schools have long been public knowledge. But
apart from Le Tissier's sort-of-confession, this is the first-time a Premier
League player has admitted doing exactly what Pakistan cricketers Salman
Butt, Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif were found guilty of. In recent years,
there has been greater concern about lower league matches being corrupted by
betting.
In 2009, the FA handed down bans to three Accrington Stanley players and one
from Bury who had bet on a League Two clash in 2008 between the two clubs. A
number of games in the old Football Conference — a competition now sponsored
by betting firm Blue Square — have also come under suspicion. And earlier
this month Kettering chairman George Rolls was banned from football for five
years after more than 3,000 breaches of betting regulations between 2007-10
— when he had been chairman at Cambridge United and Weymouth — and for
misconduct relating to the investigation. But the Premier League has
remained pretty much undisturbed by betting scandals since the 1990s. Former
Liverpool goalkeeper Bruce Grobelaar and ex-Wimbledon players John Fashanu
and Hans Segers were all cleared of allegations of match-fixing. No players
were implicated in the bizarre case of Far Eastern betting syndicates trying
to rig games by interfering with floodlights. Lundekvam's allegations raise
fresh doubts about the English game. Although the FA rules on betting were
less strict back in the late 1990s, he knew that what he and his fellow
stars were doing was in breach of those regulations and of the law. The
Premier League said last night that betting was an issue for the FA.
Rolls was charged under the Rule E8 of current FA regulations which make it
very clear that any 'participant' — from a board member to a player to a tea
lady — is forbidden from betting on any competition in which their club is
involved. They are also forbidden from passing on any information which they
know or suspect will be used for gambling.
An FA spokesman declined to comment on Lundekvam's claims but said:
"Participants are consistently reminded they cannot bet on any competition
in which they are involved. "The FA has strict policies on this and our
sanctions are wide-ranging. "All participants also have a duty to report any
such activity. "Football works closely with the gambling industry to monitor
all markets and activity and we have a unit focused on maintaining the
integrity of the sport."
Of course, there is a distinction between breaking rules on betting and
match-fixing. But the fans who pay big money to watch Premier League matches
and the hundreds of millions of armchair supporters who watch the game on TV
will now be less certain whether they can trust what they are seeing.
Lundekvam's allegations came as a result of a betting scandal unfolding in
Norway. He said it would be naive to think that such things did not go on in
Norwegian football.
The same could now be said of the English game.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 11
Tuesday, July 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th July 2012
Hall through to semi-final
WHUFC.com
Robert Hall had a hand in England's second goal as they beat France 2-1 on
Monday evening
09.07.2012
Robert Hall started for England Under-19s as they beat France 2-1 to
progress to the semi-finals of the European Champions in Estonia on Monday
night. The Young Lions were 2-1 up at half time courtesy of goals from John
Lundstram and Harry Kane In the Estonian capital Tallinn. Hall had a big
hand in England's second as his corner was punched out by the French
goalkeeper but only as far as Kane, who volleyed into the bottom corner from
12 yards. With Hall replaced in the 69th-minute, France continued to fight
hard but Noel Blake's squad stood firm and will now face Greece in the
semi-final on Thursday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mo up for Olympic challenge
WHUFC.com
Mohamed Diame is looking forward to representing Senegal at London 2012
09.07.2012
Mohamed Diame is gearing up for London 2012 after being named in Senegal's
Olympic squad. The West Ham United midfielder is one of three over-age
players named by the Senegal Football Federation for the Games, which will
see Senegal take on his new team-mate James Tomkins and Team GB in Group A.
With the likes of former Hammer Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse not includes,
Diame is one of only two English-based players in the squad alongside
Everton youngster Magaye Gueye. The 25-year-old summer capture from Wigan
Athletic told whufc.com of his joy at being involved in the world's biggest
sporting event. "I am very excited and happy to be representing my country
at the Olympics in London," he said. "I received a call from Senegal to say
I was in the squad and so we start our training now for that. "For me it is
a big thing, not only as a player but for my country - it is the first time
ever that Senegal will take a team to play in the Olympics and so it is very
special not only for the team, but for everyone in our country. "We know the
interest and support we will have from everyone back home will be very big,
so we want to make sure we do our best to represent our country very well.
"I am one of the over-age players and we have a mix of players in the squad.
I will try to help the younger players but also make sure I will do my best
on the pitch for my country. "I would like to thank the gaffer [Sam
Allardyce] and West Ham for allowing me to join up with my country to take
part in the Olympics - I will miss out on some pre-season training but I
will be working hard and training hard so I am ready when I return to West
Ham."
After spending last week training with West Ham in Austria and completing 90
minutes in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at FK Austria Wien, Diame travelled to
Senegal's pre-Olympic training camp in France on Monday. Senegal open their
Olympic campaign against Team GB at Old Trafford on 26 July, before moving
to face Uruguay at Wembley three days later. The first-time qualifiers
conclude their Group A campaign when taking on United Arab Emirates in
Coventry on 1 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Transfer Rumour #436 (Well, not really, but sure it feels like it!)
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Sports Mail are now reporting that West Ham are close to a £4.5m deal to
sign Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. Is there any truth to this one? Who
knows, especially considering the source.
Elsewhere, it has also been reported by some sources that, supposed West Ham
target, Elia is on the verge of a move from Juventus to Werder Bremen. So,
if it is correct, then that is another West Ham target missed! If he ever
was really a target, that is.
It has also been reported that we are one of three clubs chasing the
signature of Crystal Place starlet, Nathan Clyne. This has been confirmed by
Palace sources. And the South London club are now trying to get the best
compensation deal that they can for their very promising Academy product.
Lets hope we have more luck here, as Clyne definitely looks a good option at
right-back. It is alleged that Palace want £3m, but are likely to settle for
substantially less. We shall see.
Finally, Wolves winger, Matt Jarvis has apparently been targeted by QPR.
With the move for Elia seemingly no longer an option, perhaps we should
concentrate our efforts and available resources in an effort to try to
secure Jarvis. However, the strong rumour is that we are more likely to sign
Kieran Richardson for £2.5m from Sunderland FC.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newham Council confirms 'prudent' £40 million Olympic Stadium investment
London 24
Luke Jacobs
Monday, July 9, 2012
4:59 PM
Newham Council is to invest up to £40 million in Stratford's Olympic
Stadium, it was confirmed today. The authority, through subsidiary company
Newham Legacy Investments Ltd, has signed an agreement with the London
Legacy Development Corporation. They have set up E20 Stadium LLP to manage
the stadium after the Games. The agreement does not affect current bids made
by several parties, including West Ham United FC, to take over the 99-year
leasehold of the stadium.
Newham Council will have no say in who will use it post-Games. Chief
executive Kim Bromley Berry said the agreement was "prudent". It ensures
that residents will benefit from our investment," he said. "The deal
included guarantees that residents will be able to access events held at our
stadium, play sport be educated and get opportunities for employment at the
stadium. "It is because our involvement is going to benefit local residents
in the long-term that we are involved."
The council's previous £40 million joint bid with West Ham United FC for the
stadium collapsed last year after a complaint was made to the European
Commission.
The club has bid again this time around, along with Essex County Cricket
Club. Daniel Moylan, chairman of the LLDC, added: "This stadium partnership
with Newham Council will help to create a combination of local opportunities
in employment, education and sport." Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales, said: "We
are determined to help deliver the promises set out in the original Olympic
bid book to transform the lives of those living in London's East End. "The
Olympic Stadium deserves a fitting legacy that is good for Newham, London,
and the nation."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers set to beat Stoke and Reading in race to sign Maiga
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:46, 9 July 2012 | UPDATED: 22:46, 9 July 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham are close to a £4.5m deal for Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. They
also want Sporting Gijon defender Alberto Botia as well as Tottenham's
William Gallas and Porto's Abdoulaye Ba. Maiga also has offers from Stoke
and Reading. Meanwhile, Fulham and the Royals are keen on Crystal Palace's
Nathaniel Clyne.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Robert Hall had a hand in England's second goal as they beat France 2-1 on
Monday evening
09.07.2012
Robert Hall started for England Under-19s as they beat France 2-1 to
progress to the semi-finals of the European Champions in Estonia on Monday
night. The Young Lions were 2-1 up at half time courtesy of goals from John
Lundstram and Harry Kane In the Estonian capital Tallinn. Hall had a big
hand in England's second as his corner was punched out by the French
goalkeeper but only as far as Kane, who volleyed into the bottom corner from
12 yards. With Hall replaced in the 69th-minute, France continued to fight
hard but Noel Blake's squad stood firm and will now face Greece in the
semi-final on Thursday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mo up for Olympic challenge
WHUFC.com
Mohamed Diame is looking forward to representing Senegal at London 2012
09.07.2012
Mohamed Diame is gearing up for London 2012 after being named in Senegal's
Olympic squad. The West Ham United midfielder is one of three over-age
players named by the Senegal Football Federation for the Games, which will
see Senegal take on his new team-mate James Tomkins and Team GB in Group A.
With the likes of former Hammer Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse not includes,
Diame is one of only two English-based players in the squad alongside
Everton youngster Magaye Gueye. The 25-year-old summer capture from Wigan
Athletic told whufc.com of his joy at being involved in the world's biggest
sporting event. "I am very excited and happy to be representing my country
at the Olympics in London," he said. "I received a call from Senegal to say
I was in the squad and so we start our training now for that. "For me it is
a big thing, not only as a player but for my country - it is the first time
ever that Senegal will take a team to play in the Olympics and so it is very
special not only for the team, but for everyone in our country. "We know the
interest and support we will have from everyone back home will be very big,
so we want to make sure we do our best to represent our country very well.
"I am one of the over-age players and we have a mix of players in the squad.
I will try to help the younger players but also make sure I will do my best
on the pitch for my country. "I would like to thank the gaffer [Sam
Allardyce] and West Ham for allowing me to join up with my country to take
part in the Olympics - I will miss out on some pre-season training but I
will be working hard and training hard so I am ready when I return to West
Ham."
After spending last week training with West Ham in Austria and completing 90
minutes in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at FK Austria Wien, Diame travelled to
Senegal's pre-Olympic training camp in France on Monday. Senegal open their
Olympic campaign against Team GB at Old Trafford on 26 July, before moving
to face Uruguay at Wembley three days later. The first-time qualifiers
conclude their Group A campaign when taking on United Arab Emirates in
Coventry on 1 August.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers Transfer Rumour #436 (Well, not really, but sure it feels like it!)
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Sports Mail are now reporting that West Ham are close to a £4.5m deal to
sign Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. Is there any truth to this one? Who
knows, especially considering the source.
Elsewhere, it has also been reported by some sources that, supposed West Ham
target, Elia is on the verge of a move from Juventus to Werder Bremen. So,
if it is correct, then that is another West Ham target missed! If he ever
was really a target, that is.
It has also been reported that we are one of three clubs chasing the
signature of Crystal Place starlet, Nathan Clyne. This has been confirmed by
Palace sources. And the South London club are now trying to get the best
compensation deal that they can for their very promising Academy product.
Lets hope we have more luck here, as Clyne definitely looks a good option at
right-back. It is alleged that Palace want £3m, but are likely to settle for
substantially less. We shall see.
Finally, Wolves winger, Matt Jarvis has apparently been targeted by QPR.
With the move for Elia seemingly no longer an option, perhaps we should
concentrate our efforts and available resources in an effort to try to
secure Jarvis. However, the strong rumour is that we are more likely to sign
Kieran Richardson for £2.5m from Sunderland FC.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newham Council confirms 'prudent' £40 million Olympic Stadium investment
London 24
Luke Jacobs
Monday, July 9, 2012
4:59 PM
Newham Council is to invest up to £40 million in Stratford's Olympic
Stadium, it was confirmed today. The authority, through subsidiary company
Newham Legacy Investments Ltd, has signed an agreement with the London
Legacy Development Corporation. They have set up E20 Stadium LLP to manage
the stadium after the Games. The agreement does not affect current bids made
by several parties, including West Ham United FC, to take over the 99-year
leasehold of the stadium.
Newham Council will have no say in who will use it post-Games. Chief
executive Kim Bromley Berry said the agreement was "prudent". It ensures
that residents will benefit from our investment," he said. "The deal
included guarantees that residents will be able to access events held at our
stadium, play sport be educated and get opportunities for employment at the
stadium. "It is because our involvement is going to benefit local residents
in the long-term that we are involved."
The council's previous £40 million joint bid with West Ham United FC for the
stadium collapsed last year after a complaint was made to the European
Commission.
The club has bid again this time around, along with Essex County Cricket
Club. Daniel Moylan, chairman of the LLDC, added: "This stadium partnership
with Newham Council will help to create a combination of local opportunities
in employment, education and sport." Newham Mayor Sir Robin Wales, said: "We
are determined to help deliver the promises set out in the original Olympic
bid book to transform the lives of those living in London's East End. "The
Olympic Stadium deserves a fitting legacy that is good for Newham, London,
and the nation."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers set to beat Stoke and Reading in race to sign Maiga
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:46, 9 July 2012 | UPDATED: 22:46, 9 July 2012
Daily Mail
West Ham are close to a £4.5m deal for Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga. They
also want Sporting Gijon defender Alberto Botia as well as Tottenham's
William Gallas and Porto's Abdoulaye Ba. Maiga also has offers from Stoke
and Reading. Meanwhile, Fulham and the Royals are keen on Crystal Palace's
Nathaniel Clyne.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, July 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th July 2012
Strong squad promised for Tuesday
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 8th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be taking a near full-strength squad to Meadow Park on
Tuesday evening for the pre-season friendly against Boreham Wood. As part of
the deal that saw former midfielder Pelly Ruddock join West Ham on a
two-and-a-half year contract last December, Allardyce will be taking his
squad to face the Conference South side for their first pre-season fixture
on home soil. Players confirmed in West Ham's squad for the game, which
kicks off at Meadow Park at 7.30pm are as follows (subject to injury
status):
Stephen Henderson, Jussi Jaaskalainen; Jordan Spence, Joey O'Brien, Guy
Demel, Winston Reid, George McCartney, James Tomkins; Mark Noble, Ravel
Morrison, Gary O'Neil, Momo Diame, Kevin Nolan, Jack Collison, Matthew
Taylor; Ricardo Vaz Te, Sam Baldock, Nicky Maynard, Carlton Cole.
Tickets for the game can be purchased either from the BWFC ticket office on
020 8953 5097 or at the gate on the night. West Ham kicked off their
pre-season programme in Austria on Saturday afternoon against Austria Wien;
Sam Baldock scored the opening goal after just four minutes before the
Hammers eventually lost 3-1 in the Franz Horr Stadium.
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McDonald's happy still
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 8th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Assistant manager Neil McDonald believes that the first week of pre-season
has been a positive one - despite it ending in defeat against Austria Wien
yesterday.
Having spent the week at the Bad Waltersdorf training camp, McDonald - who
took charge of the squad in the absence of Sam Allardyce - oversaw West
Ham's 3-1 defeat against Austria Wien at the Franz Horr Stadium yesterday
afternoon. But despite the reversal, he felt that the week had been
productive with the squad already beginning to look sharper and fitter than
they did when returning from their post-season break. "The positives are
that we've had a good week's training and a stern test," he told whufc.tv.
"The lads have done what they were asked to do. We said before the game
[yesterday] that it was all about improving our fitness and getting our
endurance up. A lot of them played 45 minutes-plus so it finished off a good
week, even though we got beaten 3-1. "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."
"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."
Next up for the Hammers is a trip to Boreham Wood this Tuesday, where the
Hammers will be fielding a strong side against the non-leaguers. It is a
game that will also see the return of Sam Allardyce, who remained in the UK
last week in order to continue his hunt for new players. "That was the
reason Sam didn't come," added McDonald. "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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McDonald sees positives
Trio progressing well; Allardyce working on transfers
Last Updated: July 8, 2012 3:01pm
SSN
Neil McDonald believes there have been plenty of encouraging signs from the
first week of West Ham training in Austria, while Sam Allardyce stayed
behind to work on transfers. The Hammers lost 3-1 to Austria Vienna on
Saturday as they failed to build on the lead given to them by Sam Baldock's
header after four minutes.
Jack Collison and Joey O'Brien missed the game as they have been on special
individual training programmes due to the long-term knee injuries they
suffered earlier in their careers. Carlton Cole was also taken off after 25
minutes as the medical staff continue to manage his own well-documented knee
issue. While the trio could not play a full part in the game, assistant
manager McDonald believes it was still useful for them to be 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," he told the club's official website. "They've got through all
that so they'll be ready to move on to the next stage when we go back home."
Stern test
McDonald added: "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.
"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. "There are plenty of positives from a very, very good week in
Austria."
The Hammers return home to face Boreham Wood on Tuesday as they step up
their preparations for the new season, and Allardyce has been working hard
to try and strengthen his squad. McDonald explained: "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 line-up."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Celtic boss insists Liverpool, Newcastle, QPR, West Ham & Stoke target is
not for sale
London24
Sunday, July 8, 2012
10:43 PM
Celtic boss Neil Lennon has insisted that Liverpool, Stoke, Newcastle, QPR
and West Ham target Victor Wanyama will not be going anywhere. The
21-year-old midfielder revealed he was open to a move to the Premier League,
much to Lennon's disgust, "The rules are made clear before the lads go away.
At any time of the year players should not be talking about club business
when they are away with their international teams," he told the Sunday Mail.
"That goes for a few of the others and I am not just singling out Victor on
this but he knows the club policy. "It is difficult sometimes when they get
asked questions but they should just bat them off really. "Victor is due
back on July 11 and will meet us on tour in Germany. "It does not surprise
me that there is interest in Victor as he had an incredible season.
"We think he is a great player but I'm just not happy about the way things
have been dealt with. "As far as we are concerned Victor is not going
anywhere as he signed a long-term contract."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 8th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be taking a near full-strength squad to Meadow Park on
Tuesday evening for the pre-season friendly against Boreham Wood. As part of
the deal that saw former midfielder Pelly Ruddock join West Ham on a
two-and-a-half year contract last December, Allardyce will be taking his
squad to face the Conference South side for their first pre-season fixture
on home soil. Players confirmed in West Ham's squad for the game, which
kicks off at Meadow Park at 7.30pm are as follows (subject to injury
status):
Stephen Henderson, Jussi Jaaskalainen; Jordan Spence, Joey O'Brien, Guy
Demel, Winston Reid, George McCartney, James Tomkins; Mark Noble, Ravel
Morrison, Gary O'Neil, Momo Diame, Kevin Nolan, Jack Collison, Matthew
Taylor; Ricardo Vaz Te, Sam Baldock, Nicky Maynard, Carlton Cole.
Tickets for the game can be purchased either from the BWFC ticket office on
020 8953 5097 or at the gate on the night. West Ham kicked off their
pre-season programme in Austria on Saturday afternoon against Austria Wien;
Sam Baldock scored the opening goal after just four minutes before the
Hammers eventually lost 3-1 in the Franz Horr Stadium.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McDonald's happy still
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 8th July 2012
By: Staff Writer
Assistant manager Neil McDonald believes that the first week of pre-season
has been a positive one - despite it ending in defeat against Austria Wien
yesterday.
Having spent the week at the Bad Waltersdorf training camp, McDonald - who
took charge of the squad in the absence of Sam Allardyce - oversaw West
Ham's 3-1 defeat against Austria Wien at the Franz Horr Stadium yesterday
afternoon. But despite the reversal, he felt that the week had been
productive with the squad already beginning to look sharper and fitter than
they did when returning from their post-season break. "The positives are
that we've had a good week's training and a stern test," he told whufc.tv.
"The lads have done what they were asked to do. We said before the game
[yesterday] that it was all about improving our fitness and getting our
endurance up. A lot of them played 45 minutes-plus so it finished off a good
week, even though we got beaten 3-1. "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."
"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."
Next up for the Hammers is a trip to Boreham Wood this Tuesday, where the
Hammers will be fielding a strong side against the non-leaguers. It is a
game that will also see the return of Sam Allardyce, who remained in the UK
last week in order to continue his hunt for new players. "That was the
reason Sam didn't come," added McDonald. "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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McDonald sees positives
Trio progressing well; Allardyce working on transfers
Last Updated: July 8, 2012 3:01pm
SSN
Neil McDonald believes there have been plenty of encouraging signs from the
first week of West Ham training in Austria, while Sam Allardyce stayed
behind to work on transfers. The Hammers lost 3-1 to Austria Vienna on
Saturday as they failed to build on the lead given to them by Sam Baldock's
header after four minutes.
Jack Collison and Joey O'Brien missed the game as they have been on special
individual training programmes due to the long-term knee injuries they
suffered earlier in their careers. Carlton Cole was also taken off after 25
minutes as the medical staff continue to manage his own well-documented knee
issue. While the trio could not play a full part in the game, assistant
manager McDonald believes it was still useful for them to be 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," he told the club's official website. "They've got through all
that so they'll be ready to move on to the next stage when we go back home."
Stern test
McDonald added: "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.
"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. "There are plenty of positives from a very, very good week in
Austria."
The Hammers return home to face Boreham Wood on Tuesday as they step up
their preparations for the new season, and Allardyce has been working hard
to try and strengthen his squad. McDonald explained: "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 line-up."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Celtic boss insists Liverpool, Newcastle, QPR, West Ham & Stoke target is
not for sale
London24
Sunday, July 8, 2012
10:43 PM
Celtic boss Neil Lennon has insisted that Liverpool, Stoke, Newcastle, QPR
and West Ham target Victor Wanyama will not be going anywhere. The
21-year-old midfielder revealed he was open to a move to the Premier League,
much to Lennon's disgust, "The rules are made clear before the lads go away.
At any time of the year players should not be talking about club business
when they are away with their international teams," he told the Sunday Mail.
"That goes for a few of the others and I am not just singling out Victor on
this but he knows the club policy. "It is difficult sometimes when they get
asked questions but they should just bat them off really. "Victor is due
back on July 11 and will meet us on tour in Germany. "It does not surprise
me that there is interest in Victor as he had an incredible season.
"We think he is a great player but I'm just not happy about the way things
have been dealt with. "As far as we are concerned Victor is not going
anywhere as he signed a long-term contract."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, July 8
Daily WHUFC News - 8th July 2012
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
Facebook I Twitter I Preview
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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
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
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
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