Collins committed to defensive cause
WHUFC.com
James Collins was pleased to play his part in another shut-out against Norwich City
18.09.2012
James Collins believes West Ham United are beginning to state their intentions for this season after a solid point away from home at Norwich City on Saturday.
Another strong defensive display resulted in Collins and his team-mates picking up their third clean sheet in four Barclays Premier League games. The No19 put in his usual all-action display and was understandably pleased to notch up another clean sheet, both for his fellow defenders and the rest of the team. "The manager has said to us about the importance of keeping clean sheets, because it always gives you a chance of winning any game," Collins said. "We have been working on that and apart from the match at Swansea, we have been on target. "Against Norwich we had chances, so did they and people watching will probably wonder how it stayed 0-0. There were lots of opportunities for us both, but no one could stick the ball in the back of the net, so I suppose you could say a draw was a fair result. For us it was another clean sheet and a point to take home."
Collins and central defensive partner Winston Reid were impressive once again, with the latter named Man of the Match for his efforts. For Collins, though, the point was a chance to bounce back from the difficult afternoon at Swansea City three weeks earlier. "We were bitterly disappointed that day in Swansea, me personally as well. Individual mistakes cost us but since then we have been spot on and long may it continue. "It was a hard match against Norwich as there was a quick tempo throughout the game, but that is part of our plan - to put teams on the back foot as soon as we can and we did that again. Unfortunately, we couldn't get the goal we wanted but on another day we will."
Collins had words of praise for all of his team-mates but especially goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen, who played his part in making sure a point at least was going back to east London. "I felt as a team we gave a strong performance - we stood firm to them and the basis of our performances has been in trying to keep clean sheets.
"Jussi made some great saves. He is right up there with the best keepers I have played with, he talks well on the pitch and in the dressing room. He has played in the Premier League for longer than I can remember now. "His experience meant that for some of the shots, he already knew which way they were going to go and that is great for helping us boys in front of him."
The Wales international, who returned to West Ham from Aston Villa in the summer, was also confident that a decision to award Norwich a free-kick on the edge of the penalty area - instead of a spot kick - was correct, with his tackle on Andrew Surman falling just outside the box. "I was pretty confident it was outside the area but fair play to the referee, he made a great decision. We saw it again and the ref said before making a decision he looked at where the marks were on the pitch, from me sliding in to making the tackle. They were outside the box, so he made the right decision."
As a team that has just been promoted, Collins knows that it is important to get as many points as possible early on. It is an ambition that manager Sam Allardyce and his coaching staff have drilled into the players since the first day of pre-season. "During pre-season, we were talking about getting off to a good start, taking it on from last season when the boys got promoted at Wembley and finishing the season well. "We haven't come back up to this league just to stay up. If we can, we want to do more. I think we have shown that in our performances already that we have it in us to finish as high as we can."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Jussi Jaaskelainen
WHUFC.com
Jussi Jaaskelainen talks precious points, clean sheets and his reunion with Big Sam
17.09.2012
Jussi Jaaskelainen is no stranger to the Barclays Premier League, but the West Ham United goalkeeper has further staked his claim as top-flight great after an impressive start to the 2012/13 season. After ending 14 years with Bolton Wanderers, Jaaskelainen joined West Ham and has instantly established himself as Big Sam's No1, keeping three clean sheets in four league starts. Speaking after the 0-0 draw at Norwich City, the former Finland international was delighted to have added another one to his growing collection.
Jussi, that's another game, another clean sheet and another point on the board. You must be delighted with the start both you and the club have made?
JJ - "It has been a very good start to the season. You can see we are continuing to build together as a team and to have kept three clean sheets in four games is obviously a very good start. But to come away from home against a good side in Norwich with another clean sheet and another point is very pleasing."
You haven't been tested as much as you could have been this season, particularly against Fulham, but on Saturday you really proved your worth to the team with a number of impressive stops?
JJ - "Sometimes you have to be there to help out the team in certain situations and on Saturday I was able to do just that. The biggest disappointment for us was to not get a goal in the first half and that maybe in the second half our attacking play didn't have the same quality it could have."
You are 37-years-old now, so do you still get the same buzz when you hear the fans leaving the game saying 'Jasskelainen really helped our side earn a point today' and so on?
JJ - "To me it doesn't matter what people say, it is all about the involvement. I have a new challenge this season at a new club after being at the same one for 14 years playing week in week out. So now I hope to get into that same rhythm again and keep picking up clean sheets and points along the way."
West Ham United were without a first-choice goalkeeper when you arrived. Has that helped you settle, knowing that the club need you?
JJ - "For me it is always the same wherever you are. I try to work hard throughout the week to make sure I am ready for the game on Saturday. It helps that I have played in the Premier League before and I already know Sam (Allardyce) and his backroom staff. I really like the way they look after their players and hopefully I can repay them by keeping my performance levels at the same heights they have been so far this season. As a goalkeeper it is all about consistency."
Is being second-choice goalkeeper a difficult and frustrating position to be in, or is it more about remaining focused and taking your chance when called upon?
JJ - "Yes, but that is the way it is. Last season I was injured over the Christmas period so the manager had to put his trust in another goalkeeper, but that is what football is like. I was lucky enough to play for 14 years week in week out but I also had times in my career where I was on the bench. When this happened I made sure I kept working hard to ensure that when I got my chance I was ready and I took it."
Winston Reid narrowly beat you to the Man of the Match award on Saturday, which was a controversial decision wasn't it?!
JJ - "It doesn't matter! I would take a clean sheet over man of the match every week of the season.. Winston is a very good player and he has started the season well. The whole team is also defending well and we still have the likes of Tonks (James Tomkins) ready to come in and impress. We have very good strength in depth, I know Sam likes to bring in quality players and you can see the squad is very good, hopefully we will all stay fit and if we don't the players who don't start every game need to ensure they're ready to step in."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Fifty shades of grey: a homage to old Hammers
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 16th September 2012
By: Rich Hobday
The Fifty Shades Trilogy - Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed - has sold over 40 million copies worldwide, in 37 countries – mainly to undersexed, under-satisfied mums.
That is either 40 million wives with more exciting sex lives or 40 million disappointed wives, who realise their beer-bellied partners are no match for the Fifty Shades hero called Christian. It's created a new genre of literary works – branded 'Mummy Porn' – whetting a newly found appetite for sex, bondage and fetish amongst women of a certain age. Increasing sales at Mr Gold's Anne Summers empire in the process?
Maybe we should thank Fifty Shades for helping to pay Andy Carroll's wages. In the interests of research I borrowed a Fifty Shades book from one of said undersexed mums (not my wife) but excitement was minimal. I get more excited by West Ham United and our very own hero called Christian - Christian Dailly.
Of course, unlike Fifty Shades, we have more than one hero to worship. West Ham provides more excitement and passion than any of the 969 pages of the trilogy. There is, however, similarity between Fifty Shades and the Hammers - in the words of one literary critic: "Fifty Shades will excite you, obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever". No better way of describing West Ham United.
Like the trilogy's hero Christian Grey, West Ham hold a power over us – they excite, yet disappoint. They make us laugh, they make us cry. West Ham is simply our life. Whatever they do, however badly they treat us – we love them and we come back for more.
Like 40 million people, my brief encounter with Fifty Shades stirred something inside me. It fired my passion. A passion to create a new trilogy. To pay homage to West Ham heroes and villains - the cause of our pain, heartache and tears. The reason for our being.
Read a nostalgic review of our oldest players in "Fifty Shades of Grey", a salute to legendary centre midfielders in "Fifty Shades Parker" and a spit in the direction of those overpaid Hammers in "Fifty Shades Greed"...
"You'll never win anything with kids" - Alan Hansen, August 1995
"You need experience when the chips are down" John Lyall, August 1989
Every successful team needs a mix of youth and experience; young and old. But how old is too old? 35 is the age we consider moving from the blistering pace of league football to the sedentary stroll of the local vets league. The pitches set against a backdrop of rolling countryside. The teams against a backdrop of rolling subs, rolling stomachs, and rolling joints.
But many 'vets' have excelled for West Ham over the years, including in the Premier League – the best league in the world. They may have grey hair, but they have guile. They may lack pace but they play with grace. From Teddy Sheringham to Les Sealey we have had some vintage claret, who just got better with age. From front to back, West Ham's golden oldies have excelled – keepers, defenders, midfielders and strikers – leaving youngsters in their wake.
My top 10 'vets' defy age and have pushed their bodies to the brink, for the cause of West Ham United.
The day after West Ham's promotion in 1993, back pages were full of West Hams golden oldies – David Speedie and Clive Allen. Both scored. Both were old. Both were past their best. But they were mere babes at 33 and 32 respectively. They had nothing on perhaps the best veteran, Billy Bonds – the most capped Hammer, the original captain brave heart.
A career of 793 games, spanning 21 seasons, saw Bonzo play into his 42nd year. He was still marauding like a bearded pirate, covering every inch of grass, tackling, blocking and battling to the end. No-one was fitter, no-one more passionate and having retired once, he came back for another two seasons, such was his importance and dedication to the club.
He eventually hung up his boots in 1988, still leading the long distance runs in training, still with a fire in his belly – Bonzo was the mount Everest of old players – the top man, a number one, top of the heap. His desire, his hunger, his passion, puts to shame the little effort of many who've worn the beloved claret and blue, before and since. He is the benchmark to which all over 35's should aspire.
Goalkeepers are deemed to be mad. They are also angry. But they seem to improve with age. Even now, Brad Friedel, at 41, is holding down the number one spot at Tottenham, showing quick reactions and agility unbefitting someone of his age. We have seen our very own Les Sealey (39) Shaka Hislop (37) and Ludek Miklosko (35) keep goal with distinction – a mantle handed over to our most recent number one, Jussi Jaaskelainen, who at 37 still seems sharp.
Shaka, Ludo and Les have a special place in the hearts of Hammers. Although Sealey only played four times, his presence was formidable both on and off the pitch. His debut was up front against Arsenal, as a substitute where he snarled, moaned and kicked his way into our hearts. On or off the pitch Sealey spent all game scowling and kicking out in frustration. He wanted perfection. That passion is what West Ham is all about.
Les was a one off and sorely missed. Ludo is a legend. 315 games and the longest goal kick in the world ensured his place as a crowd favourite. How Big Sam would love his long kicks onto Carroll's head. Ludo's name still rings round Upton Park in honour…. his name is Ludek Miklosko; He comes from near Moscow...
At the back we have been blessed with Alvin Martin (37), Nigel Winterburn (37) and Stuart Pearce (39). Alvin is one of the all time greats at West Ham – a hero, legend, an icon. I grew up watching the Hammers of the 1980s, whose players have a special place in my heart. From the FA Cup winning team of 1980 to the Boys of '86, these are true West Ham legends - Brooking; Bonds; Lampard; Stewart – Martin; Gale; Cottee; McAvennie. Over 3700 West Ham games between them.
Alvin Martin, aged 37 was better than most of the centre backs since, collectively. For me he was simply the best. Pearce played with passion, commitment and anger rarely seen. His legs the size of tree trunks, his face red with rage. He famously played on with a broken leg, not letting that small knock keep him off the pitch. He scared players into playing better. You dare not say no to Stuart Pearce - perhaps the reason he was simultaneously, manager of England U21's, Caretaker of the full England team and GB Team manager. No-one dare say no.
If Pearce was the ultimate hard man, Winterburn I'm afraid was not. Undoubtedly a great full back, but a fighter ? No. His Arsenal spat with Paolo Di Canio was brilliant. Nigel tried to incite Paolo but shit himself as it looked like Di Canio would smash him in the face. You wouldn't want Nigel on your side in a fight, but you would want him on your side on the pitch. Winterburn still had what it took and showed at 37, in 82 games, he was still a class act for the Hammers.
In midfield we have seen the silky John Moncur aged 36, still running and tackling all over the pitch. No game went by without the Moncur turn. Nothing looks better – Mark Noble obviously thinks so. Moncs played for nine seasons, 176 games, 884 Moncur turns, and three sendings off. Latterly, the cheeky chap Moncs, turned to religion, but I'm sure he misses the terrace chants of "He's here he's there; He's every-f*cking-where..."
Up front we have witnessed international strikers playing into their early forties. Teddy Sheringham still had the best football brain on display as he became the oldest outfield player in Dec 2006, against Man City. A natural goal scorer and play maker, Teddy could link up midfield and attack like no other. In his one season in the Championship he scored 20 goals and created many more for Marlon Harewood and Bobby Zamora, in our promotion season.
His age didn't affect his never-existing pace – but his brain was the quickest around. He stood head and shoulders above the Championship plodders and journeyman, and was a joy to watch. He could guide the ball with head or chest into the path of our attacking midfielders. He obviously loved using the chest – a skill he fine tuned when dating Jordon. His touch and ability to cushion the ball continued in the FA Cup Final, when in May 2006, Sheringham became the third oldest player to appear in an a final, at 40 years and 41 days old. He remained a West Ham player until after his 41st birthday.
Teddy was the coolest at the club on the ball, and the coolest in the clubs. Flings with Nicola Smith (Mandy Smith's sister), and a string of Page 3 models, showed he never took his eye off the goal. He even bagged Miss GB, Daneille Lloyd, when he was on the judging panel. Anyone who can play Premiership football and bag Page 3 models in their 40s is simply a legend.
Ian Wright enjoyed a brief spell with West Ham and although past his best still added bite and speed up front. For me he is worth a place in my top 10 simply for getting sent off against Leeds, and smashing the shit out of the ref's dressing room.
Others who didn't make my top 10 "Shades of Grey" included Rob Lee, a real silver fox, Bernard Lama the talented but erratic 'keeper and Les Ferdinand, who made 14 appearances for us as we were relegated in 2003. Lee Chapman looked over 40 for much of his career, and had a lack of speed to match – but he was only 34 when he left West Ham, so can't be included. Maybe he needs to visit his wife's surgeon for some facial age reduction treatment.
I would also have loved to include Peter Shilton, who signed for West Ham aged 47 in 1996 – but he never made an appearance, despite being named as a substitute several times.
Between them, these top 10 ageing Hammers played over 2,100 times for West Ham, scoring 134 goals. Grey-haired heroes stand up – if you can – and take a bow.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The twelfth man
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 18th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce is still mulling over offering a contract to former Lyon defender John Mensah, according to reports. As previously reported here on KUMB.com, Mensah - who is a free agent having been released by the French club this summer - recently spent time on trial with the Hammers at Chadwell Heath. And although West Ham are yet to make the Ghanaian a concrete offer fresh reports suggest that the 29-year-old could yet become the manager's 12th signing of a busy summer.
Allardyce's summer spending spree began back in May when he signed goalkeeper Stephen Henderson from Portsmouth. That was followed by the arrival of Jussi Jaaskelainen and Momo Diame in June. July saw three more players added to the roster with George McCartney, Modibo Maiga and Raphael Spiegler arriving in London. And last month James Collins, Alou Diarra, record signing Matt Jarvis and Andy Carroll took Allardyce's quota of new faces to 11. Meanwhile is it also reported that free agents Mikael Silvestre and Anthony Vanden Borre, who have also spent time with West Ham recently, will not be offered contracts.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham linked with 'money laundering' row
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 18th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are at the centre of a new third-party row involving former loan striker Brian Montenegro. Last August the club announced that they had taken the teenage striker on a season-long loan from Uruguayan club Deportivo Maldonado. However it has now been revealed that the young striker, now 19, never actually played for the club. According to a report published by Bloomberg, West Ham were one of three European clubs duped within the last 18 months as a result of unauthorised player trading - a system designed to greatly reduce tax burdens on South American football clubs. According to lawyer Rodrigo Garcia, Montenegro is said to have been part of an elaborate scheme whereby Uruguayan clubs traded player's registrations which enables them to reduce the level of tax owed from 20 to five per cent.
Juventus, who paid Deportivo Maldonado €500,000 to take Marcelo Estigarribia on loan - and Porto, who signed Alex Sandro for €9.6million - have also been cited by the report, which insists that FIFA were aware of the situation but, according to one source, choose to "turn a deaf ear" to it.
The Argentinian tax agency claimed in a recent report that the arrangements, which involve "offshore companies" could be used for money laundering purposes. There is no suggestion that West Ham United are either involved with or aware of such practices. "Montenegro, who turned 18 in June, has joined the Hammers on a season-long loan from Uruguay-based Club Deportivo Maldonado," announced the club's website on 29th August 2011. However since leaving east London following the culmination of his year-long stay in the UK, the player has returned to Paraguayan club Tacuary - for whom he played between 2006 and 2011 - the club from whom Deportivo Maldonado obtained his registration.
The loan fee West Ham paid for Montenegro has never been disclosed. West Ham were fined £5.5million by the Premier League in April 2007 over the deal which saw Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano arrive in east London after the club were found guilty of faling to disclose the full documentation relating to the transfers. Two years later United reached an out-of-court settlement with Sheffield United after an independent tribunal chaired by Lord Griffiths found that Tevez's influence had cost the Blades their top flight status. The settlement cost West Ham in the region of £25million.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Still the Academy of Football?
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 15th September 2012
By: Robert Watson
West Ham has been deemed as the Academy of Football in past times when we produced brilliant youth players such as Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Jermaine Defoe, Glen Johnson, Rio and Anton Ferdinand, Joe Cole plus more. Most of these players have gone onto play for world-class teams (of course including West Ham). Just imagine if we still had these players now. But in recent years, the youth system hasn't produced that class of players.
First of all, let's look at the positives of the youth system. Tony Carr (MBE) has been at the forefront of our Academy since 1973 and I'd like to say what a marvellous job he's done spotting/finding probably the best youth players; he is up there with the best in the world as youth directors go. He was rightly awarded a testimonial in 2010 where many of his ex-youth players showed up for a game which also included Paolo Di Canio and then West Ham manager Gianfranco Zola ( hich I was lucky enough to watch).
West Ham have recently been granted Elite Player Performance Plan Category 1 which will definitely help improve our Academy.
Now onto the players we have produced who are regular first teamers at the club at present. The main two who spring to mind are Mark Noble and James Tomkins; both homegrown boys who have been with West Ham pretty much all of their careers. They always give their all for the team and are 100 per cent committed in everything they do; they bleed claret and blue. This can also be said of Watford-born Jack Collison, who is similar to Tomkins and Noble in having joined the Academy when he was also very young (16) albeit via Cambridge United.
All three are regulars in the first team squad now (injury permitting) and enjoyed a brilliant season in the Championship. Although Jack only came back for the last few games, he played a crucial part in our play-off semi final victory against Cardiff. Noble and Tomkins enjoyed one of their best seasons at the club whilst Noble has started off superbly in the 2012/13 campaign, especially against Fulham.
In my opinion that was one of his best ever performances for West Ham; he was simply unplayable. Tomkins has had to be happy with a place on the bench because of how well Winston Reid and James Collins have played, but when he has featured he's looked solid. When he came on against Fulham he defended very well against a difficult opponent in Dimitar Berbatov.
All three have been great players for us and I hope they stay at West Ham for the whole of their careers. Tomkins and Noble have represented England at Under 21 level and Collison is a Welsh international. The Board now need to give Noble a new long term contract as we really do not want to see him go!
Apart from those three players however there haven't really been any youth players who have succeeded in the first team for a prolonged period. There was a spell when the likes of Junior Stanislas and Zavon Hines enjoyed a run in for the first team under Zola but when Sam Allardyce came in were quickly sold to Burnley.
For me, that was the right decision as they didn't really shine. Hines scored one goal at Turf Moor and now is at Bradford City whilst Stanislas was just too lightweight and never really performed on the wing, his skills seemed to get him nowhere. I believe Allardyce made the right choice selling those two players.
The summer transfer window saw us release both Frank Nouble (bought from Chelsea) and Cristian Montano, both of whom I was fairly disappointed in seeing leave. I watched Nouble in a few development/reserve games and he was the stand-out player. He failed to many many first team appearances but when he got his one and only start in the Championship he grabbed a goal against Derby (away).
Meanwhile Montano had a few loan spells in which he impressed and he looked to be a good player, another with a bit of flair and pace down the wing. However I've got to trust Allardyce's judgement, and wish both of those players all the best in their careers.
Lastly, we sold Freddie Sears to Colchester. Sears is a West Ham fan through and through but he never really did cut it after scoring the winner against Blackburn on his debut back in 2008. Perhaps the pressure got to him but he never really lived up to the expectation. I never rated him; maybe it was because he was often played out wide instead of in his favoured central striking position. But whenever he ran at a player he never seemed to have a chance; his skill or pace just never seemed to work. I also wish Sears all the best in his career at Colchester and any future clubs.
Players need game time and most of these players didn't get it at West Ham. Maybe this is a factor why they were sold/released? I believe Stanislas said outright that the fact he didn't get any game time was the reason he moved, or is it just the fact the youth we're producing isn't good enough?
At the moment we seem to have some bright young players coming through including the likes of Jordan Spence, Danny Potts and Rob Hall - all three of whom have played for the first team. From what I've seen, they all look to be definite stars for us in the future!
But onto that burning question: are we still THE Academy of Football? I'd probably have to say no; the talent we've produced recently hasn't been up there with the talents we've produced in the past not equal to the likes of Southampton who've produced Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain etc. But there's no doubt we're still producing half decent players - even if they're not quite the same quality as those we have in the past.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jussi - I'll repay Big Sam
Veteran keeper delighted with newly-promoted West Ham's start
Last Updated: September 18, 2012 2:15pm
SSN
West Ham goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen admits he wants to repay Sam Allardyce for giving him the chance to play regular Premier League football again. Jaaskelainen, 37, agreed to join the newly-promoted Hammers when his contract at relegated Bolton Wanderers expired during the summer. The ex-Finland international made over 500 appearances for the Trotters after arriving from VPS Vassa in 1997. But he found himself relegated to the bench last season after losing his place to Adam Bogdan in the New Year. And Allardyce, who bossed Jaaskelainen at the Reebok Stadium, quickly moved to sign the experienced keeper to replace England international Robert Green as his No.1. Jaaskelainen has been magnificent as the Hammers have kept three clean sheets in their opening four Premier League matches - and he has no intention of letting his standards slip.
Consistency
"I try to work hard throughout the week to make sure I am ready for the game on Saturday," he told West Ham's official website. "It helps that I have played in the Premier League before and I already know Sam (Allardyce) and his backroom staff. "I really like the way they look after their players and hopefully I can repay them by keeping my performance levels at the same heights they have been so far this season. "As a goalkeeper it is all about consistency." On West Ham's start, he added: "You can see we are continuing to build together as a team and to have kept three clean sheets in four games is obviously a very good start."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Let's Pay Tribute To Our Defenders
West Ham Till I Die
I doubt many of us would have put much money on three clean sheets in our first four games. But that's what has happened, and we ought to pay tribute to the players who have achieved such a great defensive start. OK, we had the blip against Swansea, but two of the three goals conceded there were errors which just wouldn't normally happen. I think Winston Reid's form has been a revelation. When you think of how he performed in his first season with us, you'd think he was a different player. And in some ways he is. He's a young player who has matured and has learned from his mistakes. James Collins was simply awesome against Villa and has the potential to be one of our players of the season. Guy Demel has looked more confident with every game he plays and Joey O'Brien has done well filling in at left back. But perhaps some praise is owed to Jussi Jaaskelainen too. I've said before that I don't think he was the goalkeeping signing we should have made, but three clean sheets tell their own story. That's not to say he has inspired total confidence - he hasn't. But apart from his howler at Swansea he hasn't really put a foot wrong.
I just hope I can write a similar post in four games' time!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham Were Interested in Dimitar Berbatov!
West Ham Till I Die
Sam Allardyce has recently confirmed that the club were, indeed, keen to sign Dimitar Berbatov in the summer transfer window. Apparently, although the player left Man Utd for a modest £5m fee, the player's personal terms were too rich for West Ham's blood. Whereas, Fulham were better able to utilise the sizeable fees from departing players to finance the deal and salary package.
Berbatov, although 32 years of age, is undeniably still a talented player. But would he have fitted in to Allardyce's plans at West Ham? Moreover, he may be renowned as a top class forward, but he is not noted for his industry and preparedness to roll his sleeves up and graft for the cause. So, have we lost out on an important player or one who would not necessarily have 'fitted in' or who may have gone missing in difficult matches when the going got tough?
Elsewhere, West Ham recently took three 'free agent' defenders on trial. Two of those have had unsuccessful at trial, but the third, John Mensah, is still with the club and awaiting a final decision. Personally, I have a feeling that we will sign Mensah on, at least, at short-term deal. This is extra defensive assurance, but will be prove to be a good deal for the club, given Mensah's recent less an impressive fitness record?
Finally, it would appear that West Ham's name has emerged, as an innocent party, in reports of an alleged tax avoidance practice, and possible money laundering scam, operating in South America. It would appear that South American clubs are trading the registration of players and loaning them on to European clubs to reduce their tax liabilities. West Ham and Porto have both been named as European clubs who innocently loaned players under these circumstances. And of course, in West Ham's case, the player in question was Brian Montenegro-Martinez, the teenage winger/striker who was with us on loan last season, did very well for the Development Squad and then pomptly disappeared in May, without barely a mention! BMM was apparently loaned to us by Deportivo Maldonado, but has apparently since returned to his Paraguayan club, Tacuary FC!
There is no suggestion whatsoever that West Ham were involved in the practice/scam or had any knowledge of it. So, it is not another Tevez third party interest situation. However, it does demonstrate once again how complicated player ownership can be in South America and how careful British clubs need to be when purchasing or loaning players from there.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Powell to use West Ham target or ex-Arsenal youngster at left back
London 24
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
5:56 PM
Charlton manager Chris Powell is confident his side can cope without injured defender Rhoys Wiggins. Left back Wiggins is expected to be out for around two months after suffering a fractured foot in the Addicks' 1-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on Friday. Powell moved 21-year-old right back and alleged West Ham target Chris Solly to left back against Palace, with summer signing Lawrie Wilson slotting in on the right. Powell says he could also call on former Arsenal youngster Cedric Evina to fill in for Wiggins. "Sadly, Rhoys is going to miss six to eight weeks, and that's a shame because he was a key player for us last year," Powell told Charlton's official website. "We know that we have to get on without him and hopefully he will come back fighting fit. "I moved Chris Solly across to left back on Friday - he will play in any position that I ask him to and won't bat an eyelid, and will be absolutely first class because that's the sort of player he is. "That gave a chance to Lawrie Wilson, who I felt grew into the game against Palace, and of course I've got young [Cedric] Evina who has been around and played a few games last season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham couldn't afford pricey Dimitar Berbatov, admits Big Sam
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has revealed the club tried to sign Dimitar Berbatov from Manchester United last month but could not match Fulham's offer for the veteran striker.
Metro.co.uk
The 32-year-old was desperate for regular match time after falling down the pecking order at Old Trafford and sealed his return to London on transfer deadline day.
A move to Serie A side Fiorentina was initially on the cards but the Bulgarian bailed on them at the last minute to pen a two-year-deal with Fulham. Former club Tottenham made a last ditch enquiry into his services and Allardyce has now confirmed West Ham were also interested, but money proved to be a stumbling block.
'We couldn't afford him. The problem was the transfer fee and the size of the salary was out of our domain this season in terms of our budget,' Allardyce revealed.
'Fulham created their own transfer funds. They knew Clint Dempsey was moving on, and one or two others, and that gave them the opportunity to go big.'
The move prompted West Ham to eventually opt for a loan deal for Liverpool's Andy Carroll, who could be set for an early return from injury this weekend.
Berbatov opened his Fulham account at the weekend with a brace against West Brom.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Guy Demel showing his international quality for West Ham
Here Is The City
by Dan Coombs
@hitcdancoombs
West Ham signed Guy Demel last August, and after an injury-hit first season, supporters are finally seeing his true worth. Guy Demel is a player who is highly regarded, or at least he was prior to his move to West Ham. The Hammer surprised everybody by snapping him up last August, a player who many Premier League clubs would have been glad to sign, nevermind one in the Championship. Sam Allardyce is renowned for his pull in the transfer market, and the acquistion of Demel was proof that he still had it, even in English football's second tier. He was included in our 'best deals of deadline day', and finally it looks like he is showing his quality.
For the Ivory Coast international had a bad start at West Ham, in fact it wasn't really much of a start at all, with injury preventing him from making a first team start until November, and then he was ruled out between December and April. He made 10 appearances in total, seven in the league, and three in the play-offs, including a start in the play-off final win over Blackpool at Wembley. His end of season performances were enough to persuade Sam Allardyce he was worth pursuing with, and after a full pre-season, he has come back in full health. He has been a real bonus for the Hammers this campaign, playing a key role at right-back in the Hammers keeping three clean sheets in four games. Demel also played in the play-off semi-final against Cardiff where his side kept clean sheets in both matches, before winning the final 2-1. Which means in his last seven appearances, the club have conceded in just two. It is a fine record, which is down not just to him, but the full defensive unit. What's more is that this season the tough tackler has only given away two fouls in his four matches. It should be no surprise to see Demel proving his worth, he is a player who has played at the very highest level, in the World Cup in 2010 where he infamously clashed with Cristiano Ronaldo. The 31-year-old has also featured in the Champions league for Hamburg, where he played for a decade, previously with Borussia Dortmund. One word of warning to the Hammers is that Demel signed on a two year deal, meaning it will expire next summer. West Ham do have an option to extend it by a further year, and based on his showings and fitness so far this season they would be wise to do so.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Wednesday, September 19
Tuesday, September 18
Daily WHUFC News - 18th September 2012
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is hoping his defence can keep up the good work when
Sunderland visit on Saturday
16.09.2012
Sam Allardyce made a strong case for the defence after West Ham United's
fourth clean sheet in five games this season helped them to a goalless
Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City on Saturday. A combination of
bravery, organisation and discipline from the Hammers repelled the home
side's repeated assaults at goal, leaving Big Sam to look ahead at the
club's upcoming fixtures with renewed optimism. Sunderland are the next to
see if they can become the first visiting team to register a Boleyn Ground
away goal this season when they arrive in east London on Saturday. "We're
satisfied with the point away from home and it's another clean sheet - the
basis and the structure to build any successful side on," Allardyce said.
"We're going to eventually start scoring goals as we didn't quite find the
clinical edge that we had against Fulham. "Being defensively strong is
critical because every time you don't concede a goal you know you've got a
point at least. You know for a fact that if you tot up 38 points in a season
now, it's likely that you'll be safe as nobody has gone down in the last
eight years with that amount."
The post-match interviewers were quick to quiz Allardyce on whether
Saturday's match had been the best performance yet from his new man between
the sticks, Jussi Jaaskelainen. Big Sam was quick to concur and explained
how pleased he was that the Finland international is feeling the benefits of
working with goalkeeping coach Martyn 'Marge' Margetson. "Yes I think it was
his best performance as that's the busiest he's been. Even though we lost
3-0 against Swansea City he wasn't very busy. The big man is there to do a
job and he did the job superbly for us. There were probably no world-class
saves in there but the ones he did make were very good. "I've got a great
goalkeeping coach here called Martyn Margetson, who is also the goalkeeping
coach for Wales. I know Jussi's strength was the coaching that Fred Barber
used to give him when I was with him at Bolton and I knew that when he got
with Marge, he would put him into a good frame of mind and re-kindle all of
the old experience that he's got. "When you're in the mid-30s today you can
still be a very good goalkeeper if you want to be. When you look at someone
like Brad Friedel, it shows that being in your mid-to-late-thirties isn't a
problem any more. It's about using that experience and having that
dedication to keeping your body right to play in goal, which Jussi does."
Jaaskelainen may not be the only one to enjoy the benefits of West Ham's
current watertight defence though, as the manager feels that assured
defending can also benefit the work his strikeforce do further up the pitch.
Carlton Cole caused the Canaries' defence problems for the first 57 minutes
on Saturday before being replaced by Modibo Maiga, who added his touch and
guile to several promising attacks. "The good thing is that the front
players know that one goal is going to win us the game as defensively we're
so good. That is critical to the success of the side. The confidence
throughout the team grows and the strikers know that if you miss one it's
not going to bother us too much if we can continue to defend like we do.
They know if they get the next one then it could win us the game. It's been
critical for the points total that we've gathered already and hopefully
we'll continue for a long period of time. "We are a team that has just come
up and we will have our periods when the opposition will come and be on top
of their form. We won't worry too much about that if we keep our mind on the
job and of course it promotes good attacking football. Our lads win the ball
back and we can keep probing as an attacking side to break down the
opposition."
With Andy Carroll still recovering from his hamstring injury, Cole and Maiga
both looked keen to impress with some tireless running on a very warm
September afternoon in East Anglia. That kind of attitude is exactly what is
needed as the competition for places hots-up according to Big Sam. "Carlton
Cole knows all about the Premier League. He's got stiff competition as he's
seen a centre forward come in from Liverpool that they paid a lot of money
for. He can either think that he's going to shrivel up or roll up his
sleeves and fight. When you've got competition it's got to bring the best
out you. I know he'll roll his sleeves up as he did against Norwich and
that's what we want to see. "In terms of Andy's recovery, I don't think
there's much chance for Sunderland. We would try and hope if we can get him
back before the next international break. I think it's a long-shot at the
moment but we'll try."
Friday was the first time Allardyce was able to get his whole squad together
after international commitments saw his side scatter all over the globe. But
after a summer of hard work identifying and securing a host of new talent
for his squad, the manager was able to finally reflect on a job well done.
"We've got a group of players that are getting to know each other day by
day. There are a lot of new faces that have come to the club again. I know
all about our boys from last season and I hope the new faces will make us
better and stronger as we go on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hendon pleased with Baggies point
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon was content with Sunday's 1-1 Development Squad draw at West
Bromwich Albion
17.09.2012
Ian Hendon was content after watching his side earn a 1-1 Barclays Under-21
Premier League draw with West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns. Yassine El
Ghanassy opened the scoring for the home side after five minutes but the
Development Squad were only behind for three minutes as Rob Hall levelled
from a free-kick at The Hawthorns. After losing 2-0 to Bolton Wanderers in
their previous fixture, Hendon was happy to see his side bounce back against
an experienced Baggies line-up.
"Overall I am pleased with a point because we played a very good team
containing a few first-team players and we competed every step of the way,"
he confirmed.
"We worked hard defensively before the game because we have been conceding
from a lot of set-pieces and I think you could tell. We stood firm and
looked strong when defending free-kicks and corners."
Hendon continued by paying tribute to his side's work ethic and attitude,
after they displayed a different side to their game than in previous
encounters.
"You saw a very different side to our game on Sunday," explained Hendon. "We
didn't have the majority of possession like we have had in previous games,
but we worked hard, stuck at it and ground out a result. "We, like most
weeks, had a very young team out there, so to see them come through and get
a result - particularly after going a goal down after five minutes - was
very pleasing."
Hall made his Barclays Premier League debut in the 3-0 home win over Fulham
recently and showed his sublime ability by equalising with a direct
free-kick.
"We equalised soon after we went behind. Rob scored a great free-kick and
showed again why he is in and around the first team. He is a very good
player.
"Seb Lletget also had a very good game in the centre of midfield. We didn't
have much of the ball, particularly in the second half, and he worked
tirelessly to break
down the play."
Next on the agenda for the Development Squad is a tricky looking encounter
against unbeaten Group A leaders Arsenal at Rush Green on Friday evening.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hall on song
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Rob Hall's early strike was enough to earn Ian Hendon's Development Squad a
point from their weekend trip to West Bromwich Albion. Hall, who in one of
several youngsters on the verge of the first team squad struck on eight
minutes to cancel out Yassine El Ghanassy's fifth minute opener for the home
side. And recent signing Raphael Spiegel was also on form, making what have
been described as "a number of first-class saves" to ensure United grabbed a
share of the spoils. The on-loan El Ghanassy put the Baggies ahead with a
well-taken strike into the bottom left hand corner after running
unchallenged from inside his own half. But Hall notched the equaliser with
an equally stunning effort as his 25-yard free kick found the back of the
net. The young Hammers have now taken seven points from their opening four
fixtures in Group 1 of the Barclays Under-21 Premier League leaving them in
third spot behind leaders Arsenal - who have a 100 per cent record so far
and a game in hand - and Reading, also on seven points.
West Ham Utd: Spiegel; Driver (c), Moncur, Chambers, Fanimo; Spence,
Turgott, Lletget, Hall; McCallum, Lee (Ruddock 76).
Subs not used: Hunt, Rosique, Wearen, Powell.
West Bromwich Albion: L Daniels; Hurst, D Daniels, Tamas, Gayle; Thorne (c),
Mantom; Sawyers (Allan 68), El Ghanassy (Nabi 82), Rosenberg (Roofe 76);
Berahino.
Subs not used: Lewis, O'Neil.
Referee: S.Garrett
Also in action over the weekend against West Bromwich Albion were Nick
Haycock's under 18's, who grabbed their second win of the campaign with a
comprehensive 4-0 victory on Saturday. Goals from Kieran Sadlier (2), Nathan
Mavila and substitute Taylor Miles gave the young Hammers three more
Barclays U18 Premier League Group 1 points, taking their tally to seven from
four games - the same as both the development squad and first team. "It
could have been more than four-nil," manager Haycock told whufc.com. "It was
a good all-round display from the boys. We have raised the bar with this
performance and set our standards for the season ahead." West Ham rise to
third in the Group 1 table behind leaders Bolton (10 points) and Reading (8
points).
West Ham Utd: Larkins, Siafa (Girdlestone 65), Shaw, Onnariase, Nasha,
Cullen, Bywater, T.Tombides (Homans 70), Mavila, Sadlier (Miles 75),
Boakye-Yiadom.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks set for Irish role?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Julian Dicks is hoping to return to management with League of Ireland
Premier League club Shamrock Rovers. The Hoops, the Republic's most
successful club of all time are based in Dublin and play at the Tallaght
Stadium which has a capacity of just over 6,000. Over the weekend former
West Ham and Liverpool star Dicks - who was last in management in 2011 at
Grays Athletic - become the latest manager linked with replacing Stephen
Kenny, who was fired last week following the derby defeat against Bohemians.
And last night Dicks, speaking to KUMB.com, confirmed that he had applied
for the post. "It's true that I've put my name in to the hat," he said.
However he conceded that he faced stiff opposition from the likes of current
Hibs manager Pat Fenlon - the fans' choice to succeed Kenny - and Brian
Laws, the former Burnley manager who is also considered to be a front-runner
for the vacancy. Since ending his playing career, Dicks has held two jobs in
management - firstly at Eastern Counties League Premier Division club
Wivenhoe Town in 2009 and then at Grays Athletic, whom he managed between
September 2009 and May 2011.
In December of last year he was offered the opportunity to take over at Blue
Square Bet South outfit Dorchester Town but failed to agree personal terms.
Since then, the 44-year-old former left back has been working primarily as a
freelance coach and radio pundit - as well as penning a column here on
KUMB.com - but still harbours hopes of returning to full time management.
Shamrock Rovers chairman, Jonathan Roche, announcing the departure of Kenny
last week said: "We have not taken this decision lightly and we are
extremely disappointed with the turn of events. However, the club feels that
this is the right decision at this time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
You'll win nothing with digs
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has hit out at the BBC's Alan Hansen after the TV pundit
criticised West Ham United's co-chairman for interacting with supporters.
According to Gold, Hansen made a number of disparaging comments about the
76-year-old following an item he recorded for the BBC back in October 2010.
Speaking via his Twitter account over the weekend, Gold accused the former
Liverpool and Scotland defender of insulting him, whilst referring to him as
a "pompous fool". "I can't remember exactly [what he said]; I think he said
a good chair is a chairman that doesn't sign autographs or intereacts with
fans," Gold told followers of his Twitter feed. "He also implied that a good
chairman shouldn't have a football opinion. Alan Hansen is a pompous fool
and owes me an apology. "It's interesting that after my feature on Match of
the Day, the BBC sent my a copy of the show - but cut out the insulting
comments by Alan Hansen."
Gold, who was at Carrow Road on Saturday to watch West Ham earn their first
away point of the new season also told supporters that the World Cup
winners' statue - which was erected at the junction of Green Street and
Barking Road nine years ago - would be unlikely to make the move to
Stratford should United move there, as planned, in two years' time. "I would
be in favour of leaving the statues where they are and putting up replicas
at the new stadium," he said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce believes West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen's confidence is
back
Last Updated: September 17, 2012 10:49am
SSN
Sam Allardyce believes Jussi Jaaskelainen's confidence has been rekindled
since moving to West Ham United and has praised the goalkeeper's impact.
Jaaskelainen joined the Hammers in the summer to replace Robert Green and
had previously spent over seven years playing under Allardyce at Bolton
Wanderers. The 37-year-old lost his place at Bolton in the second half of
last season, but Allardyce feels the Finn is back to his best after an
impressive display in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Norwich City. "The big man is
there to do a job and he has done the job superbly well for us," said the
West Ham boss. "I know that Jussi's strength was the coaching that Fred
Barber used to give him at Bolton, which he lost. "I knew that when he got
here with Martyn Margetson, that Marge would sort him out, put him back into
a right good frame of mind and rekindle all the old experience he used to
have. "Perhaps he had lost faith in himself a little bit and lost faith
because he wasn't playing, but Marge has rekindled his confidence and put
him in the right frame of mind."
Allardyce continued: "When you have got the experience that he has got and
are in your mid-30s, today you are still a very good goalkeeper if you want
to be.
"If you look at Brad Friedel, he is 41 now, so we know that being in your
mid to late 30s is not a problem anymore. "It is using that experience and
having the dedication to keep your body right, which Jussi does."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sport Football News Alan Hansen
By Mike Walters Comments 17 Sep 2012 22:31
The Mirror
'Hansen's a pompous fool': West Ham chief in Twitter blast at MOTD pundit
West Ham co-owner David Gold has branded Match Of The Day pundit Alan Hansen
a "pompous fool" in an amazing Twitter attack. Gold has not forgiven Hansen
for a throwaway remark he made about football club chairmen two years ago.
The Hammers' joint chairman had granted the BBC access all areas - including
to his palatial Surrey home and the directors' box at Upton Park - for a
behind-the-scenes feature on Match Of The Day 2. But, in the subsequent
studio discussion, hosted by presenter Colin Murray, Hansen was allegedly
dismissive of chairmen who sign autographs and pose for photographs with
fans. Gold was understood to be livid that his matchday hospitality should
be compromised by an obtuse comment.
And, buoyed by the Hammers' encouraging start on their return to the Premier
League mainstream (seven points and three clean sheets from four games),
Gold went on the warpath - and not because their goalless draw at Norwich
was the last game shown on MOTD on Saturday. Responding to a follower's
unconnected observation about Hansen, Gold posted: "I can't remember
exactly, I think he said a good chairman doesn't sign autographs or interact
with fans. He also implied that a good chairman shouldn't have a football
opinion. Alan Hansen is a pompous fool and owes me an apology. "It's
interesting that after my feature on MOTD, the BBC sent me a copy of the
show but cut out the insulting comments by AH. "The date of the interview
staring (sic) Alan Hansen was 3rd October 2010. Would love to get
unexpurgated copy."
Gold is not thought to have any problems with the BBC as a corporation or
Match Of The Day itself. His long-running beef is with Hansen, a
Double-winning Liverpool captain in 1986 and regarded as the doyen of
football pundits. When it was revealed in the summer that Hansen was paid
£40,000 a show, and was staying with Match Of The Day after agreeing to a
£500,000 wage decrease, Gold tweeted: "I see one of the worst and most
pompous pundits on BBC has taken a big pay cut. I'm stunned he gets paid at
all."
Gold and his long-time business associate David Sullivan bought a 62 per
cent majority stake in West Ham in January 2010, pumping around £100 million
into the club to save the Hammers from collapse. Their decision to axe
manager Gianfranco Zola and replace him with Avram Grant backfired, but Sam
Allardyce won promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt.
* WEST HAM manager Sam Allardyce has turned down the chance to sign free
agents Mikael Silvestre, John Mensah and Anthony Vanden Borre. The trio
joined the Hammers on trial last week, but Allardyce was not impressed and
has put a block on any permanent deals. Ex-Manchester United and Arsenal
defender Silvestre is without a club after leaving Werder Bremen, former
Portsmouth midfielder Vanden Borre was last at Belgian club Genk and
centre-back Mensah, once of Sunderland, left Lyon in July.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce challenges 'reluctant' Carroll to prove worth to Liverpool during
West Ham spell
Goal.com
18 Sep 2012 00:50:00
By Andrew Kennedy
Sam Allardyce has admitted that Andy Carroll was reluctant to leave
Liverpool and join West Ham on loan in the summer transfer window, but has
challenged the striker to prove his quality at Upton Park. The 23-year-old
endured a difficult year-and-a-half spell at Anfield following his £35
million switch from Newcastle, and after the arrival of new Reds boss
Brendan Rodgers, was made surplus to requirements at the club. West Ham's
early attempts to land Carroll were unsuccessful, with the England
international reported to prefer a return to Sports Direct Arena, however,
the Hammers eventually landed their man on the penultimate day of the
transfer window on a season-long loan deal. And Allardyce believes he can
show his worth to Liverpool during his time in east London, while also
helping to secure the club's Premier League survival. "Andy wasn't really
keen to leave Liverpool, which you can understand, because he was a big
transfer from Newcastle and wanted to show what he could do there. Wanted to
show Brendan what he could do," Allardyce said. "We tried in the early
stages of pre-season, but it just wasn't to be at the time. I think our
pursuit of Andy wasn't going to be successful until almost the death in
terms of the end of the transfer window. "But I think in the end he saw he
wasn't going to get those opportunities at Liverpool. First-team football
was what he wanted and what we could offer him, and ahead of a lot of other
Premier League clubs we were able to seal a deal thanks to the quick work of
[co-chairman] David Sullivan. "Andy's matured a lot since I worked with him
as a 19-year-old at Newcastle. He's been through the mill a bit, some
[critcism] deserved and some harsh. But now it' s all about his football,
he's totally focused on it and he wants to be playing football, and playing
first-team football. "And for us to get him on loan is a major coup for a
football club like us who are trying to establish ourselves back in the
Premier League."
Carroll's West Ham debut may have been cut short by injury, with a hamstring
problem ruling him out for up to six weeks, but the former Bolton boss
hailed his performance in the 3-0 win over Fulham as "one of the best" he
had seen since joining the club. "The lift that Andy gave everybody and the
reception he got from the West Ham fans lifted everybody. "For me it's
probably one of the best performance I've seen since I've joined West Ham.
"We overran them in the first half and the quality of our goals said
everything really and we missed even more chances to make it more than
three."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus, West Ham Get Players as Uruguay's 'Ghost' Deals Mount
By Alex Duff - Sep 17, 2012 11:01 PM GMT
Bloomberg.com
Juventus (JUVE), AS Roma (ASR) and Porto agreed to pay a combined 11.1
million euros ($14.6 million) to hire players from Club Deportivo Maldonado,
a Uruguayan soccer team for which they never appeared, according to
stock-market filings. England's West Ham took a striker on loan. South
American teams and investors in the players' transfer rights move the
athletes' registrations through Uruguayan clubs to reduce tax on the trades
to as little as 5 percent from 20 percent, said Rodrigo Garcia, a lawyer at
Laffer Abogados in Madrid who has advised teams on such deals. Argentina's
tax authority said last month that the arrangements were irregular, and
Brazil's sports minister Aldo Rebelo said soccer ruling body FIFA should
outlaw the "ghost" club deals. At least $70 million of transfer fees went
through nine Uruguayan clubs in the same way since 2000, according to
Bloomberg News calculations. Uruguay's soccer federation declined to comment
yesterday. "This has been going on for years without anybody paying much
attention," Garcia said by telephone. "FIFA doesn't look on it favorably but
turns a deaf ear." The trades would only break FIFA rules if investors or
other third parties interfered in player movement, Garcia said.
'Tax Avoidance'
FIFA, which didn't immediately respond to a request for comment for this
story, is seeking to improve regulation of the $3 billion transfer market.
In 2010, the soccer authority made it compulsory to disclose bank details of
where transfer money goes via an Internet-based system. Mark Goddard, who
oversees the system, said at the time that soccer is "the last area of the
commercial world where large amounts of money can be moved without oversight
or regulation."
Deportivo Maldonado is a second-division team in Uruguay, where even the top
sides are traditionally weaker than Brazilian and Argentine counterparts in
continental competition. Trades through Uruguayan clubs amount to "damaging"
tax avoidance, with the transfer fees sometimes directed to offshore
companies, the Argentina tax agency said in an Aug. 24 statement. The
arrangement could be used to launder money, Brazil's Rebelo said in an Aug.
30 interview.
In February, FIFA began investigating after Mario Bursztyn, president of
Club Atletico Rentistas, said transfer fees involving Brazilian players
including "Hulk," whose real name is Givanildo Vieira de Souza, were
redirected through the Uruguayan team to a bank account in the name of Sao
Paulo-based player agent Juan Figer. The players concerned never appeared in
games for Rentistas. Bursztyn said in a Feb. 8 interview that Rentistas
received a monthly retainer fee under the arrangement.
Porto Signing
Figer follows all the rules of his profession, his spokesman Jose Aparecida
Miguel said in an e-mail at the time. Miguel didn't immediately return a
call and e-mail seeking comment for this story. In the Deportivo Maldonado
trades, Brazil's Alex Sandro joined Portuguese champion Porto (FCP) for 9.6
million euros. Marcelo Estigarribia went to current Italian champion
Juventus on loan last season for 500,000 euros and Paraguay teammate Ivan
Piris moved to Roma on loan for 700,000 euros this season. West Ham took
Brian Montenegro, another Paraguayan, on loan from Maldonado last season
without disclosing if a fee changed hands.
Porto spokesman Rui Cerqueira didn't return a call and e- mail seeking
comment on the arrangement. Juventus's Claudio Albanese declined to comment
about its hiring of Estigarribia, who is now on loan at Sampdoria. West Ham
said it had no comment, and Roma officials didn't immediately provide a
comment. Roma paid 300,000 euros for an option to sign Piris permanently for
4 million euros after this season, according to an Aug. 1 team statement.
Maldonado official Jorge Lopez said he was unable to discuss the trades.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nigel has a plan! Reo-Coker on verge of signing for Championship strugglers
Charlton
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 17 September 2012 | UPDATED: 22:30, 17 September 2012
Daily Mail
Nigel Reo-Coker is on the verge of joining Championship strugglers Charlton
on a free transfer. The 28-year-old former West Ham and Aston Villa
midfielder, who left Bolton at the end of last season, has been looking for
a club all summer and Chris Powell is prepared to take him on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce is hoping his defence can keep up the good work when
Sunderland visit on Saturday
16.09.2012
Sam Allardyce made a strong case for the defence after West Ham United's
fourth clean sheet in five games this season helped them to a goalless
Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City on Saturday. A combination of
bravery, organisation and discipline from the Hammers repelled the home
side's repeated assaults at goal, leaving Big Sam to look ahead at the
club's upcoming fixtures with renewed optimism. Sunderland are the next to
see if they can become the first visiting team to register a Boleyn Ground
away goal this season when they arrive in east London on Saturday. "We're
satisfied with the point away from home and it's another clean sheet - the
basis and the structure to build any successful side on," Allardyce said.
"We're going to eventually start scoring goals as we didn't quite find the
clinical edge that we had against Fulham. "Being defensively strong is
critical because every time you don't concede a goal you know you've got a
point at least. You know for a fact that if you tot up 38 points in a season
now, it's likely that you'll be safe as nobody has gone down in the last
eight years with that amount."
The post-match interviewers were quick to quiz Allardyce on whether
Saturday's match had been the best performance yet from his new man between
the sticks, Jussi Jaaskelainen. Big Sam was quick to concur and explained
how pleased he was that the Finland international is feeling the benefits of
working with goalkeeping coach Martyn 'Marge' Margetson. "Yes I think it was
his best performance as that's the busiest he's been. Even though we lost
3-0 against Swansea City he wasn't very busy. The big man is there to do a
job and he did the job superbly for us. There were probably no world-class
saves in there but the ones he did make were very good. "I've got a great
goalkeeping coach here called Martyn Margetson, who is also the goalkeeping
coach for Wales. I know Jussi's strength was the coaching that Fred Barber
used to give him when I was with him at Bolton and I knew that when he got
with Marge, he would put him into a good frame of mind and re-kindle all of
the old experience that he's got. "When you're in the mid-30s today you can
still be a very good goalkeeper if you want to be. When you look at someone
like Brad Friedel, it shows that being in your mid-to-late-thirties isn't a
problem any more. It's about using that experience and having that
dedication to keeping your body right to play in goal, which Jussi does."
Jaaskelainen may not be the only one to enjoy the benefits of West Ham's
current watertight defence though, as the manager feels that assured
defending can also benefit the work his strikeforce do further up the pitch.
Carlton Cole caused the Canaries' defence problems for the first 57 minutes
on Saturday before being replaced by Modibo Maiga, who added his touch and
guile to several promising attacks. "The good thing is that the front
players know that one goal is going to win us the game as defensively we're
so good. That is critical to the success of the side. The confidence
throughout the team grows and the strikers know that if you miss one it's
not going to bother us too much if we can continue to defend like we do.
They know if they get the next one then it could win us the game. It's been
critical for the points total that we've gathered already and hopefully
we'll continue for a long period of time. "We are a team that has just come
up and we will have our periods when the opposition will come and be on top
of their form. We won't worry too much about that if we keep our mind on the
job and of course it promotes good attacking football. Our lads win the ball
back and we can keep probing as an attacking side to break down the
opposition."
With Andy Carroll still recovering from his hamstring injury, Cole and Maiga
both looked keen to impress with some tireless running on a very warm
September afternoon in East Anglia. That kind of attitude is exactly what is
needed as the competition for places hots-up according to Big Sam. "Carlton
Cole knows all about the Premier League. He's got stiff competition as he's
seen a centre forward come in from Liverpool that they paid a lot of money
for. He can either think that he's going to shrivel up or roll up his
sleeves and fight. When you've got competition it's got to bring the best
out you. I know he'll roll his sleeves up as he did against Norwich and
that's what we want to see. "In terms of Andy's recovery, I don't think
there's much chance for Sunderland. We would try and hope if we can get him
back before the next international break. I think it's a long-shot at the
moment but we'll try."
Friday was the first time Allardyce was able to get his whole squad together
after international commitments saw his side scatter all over the globe. But
after a summer of hard work identifying and securing a host of new talent
for his squad, the manager was able to finally reflect on a job well done.
"We've got a group of players that are getting to know each other day by
day. There are a lot of new faces that have come to the club again. I know
all about our boys from last season and I hope the new faces will make us
better and stronger as we go on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hendon pleased with Baggies point
WHUFC.com
Ian Hendon was content with Sunday's 1-1 Development Squad draw at West
Bromwich Albion
17.09.2012
Ian Hendon was content after watching his side earn a 1-1 Barclays Under-21
Premier League draw with West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns. Yassine El
Ghanassy opened the scoring for the home side after five minutes but the
Development Squad were only behind for three minutes as Rob Hall levelled
from a free-kick at The Hawthorns. After losing 2-0 to Bolton Wanderers in
their previous fixture, Hendon was happy to see his side bounce back against
an experienced Baggies line-up.
"Overall I am pleased with a point because we played a very good team
containing a few first-team players and we competed every step of the way,"
he confirmed.
"We worked hard defensively before the game because we have been conceding
from a lot of set-pieces and I think you could tell. We stood firm and
looked strong when defending free-kicks and corners."
Hendon continued by paying tribute to his side's work ethic and attitude,
after they displayed a different side to their game than in previous
encounters.
"You saw a very different side to our game on Sunday," explained Hendon. "We
didn't have the majority of possession like we have had in previous games,
but we worked hard, stuck at it and ground out a result. "We, like most
weeks, had a very young team out there, so to see them come through and get
a result - particularly after going a goal down after five minutes - was
very pleasing."
Hall made his Barclays Premier League debut in the 3-0 home win over Fulham
recently and showed his sublime ability by equalising with a direct
free-kick.
"We equalised soon after we went behind. Rob scored a great free-kick and
showed again why he is in and around the first team. He is a very good
player.
"Seb Lletget also had a very good game in the centre of midfield. We didn't
have much of the ball, particularly in the second half, and he worked
tirelessly to break
down the play."
Next on the agenda for the Development Squad is a tricky looking encounter
against unbeaten Group A leaders Arsenal at Rush Green on Friday evening.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hall on song
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Rob Hall's early strike was enough to earn Ian Hendon's Development Squad a
point from their weekend trip to West Bromwich Albion. Hall, who in one of
several youngsters on the verge of the first team squad struck on eight
minutes to cancel out Yassine El Ghanassy's fifth minute opener for the home
side. And recent signing Raphael Spiegel was also on form, making what have
been described as "a number of first-class saves" to ensure United grabbed a
share of the spoils. The on-loan El Ghanassy put the Baggies ahead with a
well-taken strike into the bottom left hand corner after running
unchallenged from inside his own half. But Hall notched the equaliser with
an equally stunning effort as his 25-yard free kick found the back of the
net. The young Hammers have now taken seven points from their opening four
fixtures in Group 1 of the Barclays Under-21 Premier League leaving them in
third spot behind leaders Arsenal - who have a 100 per cent record so far
and a game in hand - and Reading, also on seven points.
West Ham Utd: Spiegel; Driver (c), Moncur, Chambers, Fanimo; Spence,
Turgott, Lletget, Hall; McCallum, Lee (Ruddock 76).
Subs not used: Hunt, Rosique, Wearen, Powell.
West Bromwich Albion: L Daniels; Hurst, D Daniels, Tamas, Gayle; Thorne (c),
Mantom; Sawyers (Allan 68), El Ghanassy (Nabi 82), Rosenberg (Roofe 76);
Berahino.
Subs not used: Lewis, O'Neil.
Referee: S.Garrett
Also in action over the weekend against West Bromwich Albion were Nick
Haycock's under 18's, who grabbed their second win of the campaign with a
comprehensive 4-0 victory on Saturday. Goals from Kieran Sadlier (2), Nathan
Mavila and substitute Taylor Miles gave the young Hammers three more
Barclays U18 Premier League Group 1 points, taking their tally to seven from
four games - the same as both the development squad and first team. "It
could have been more than four-nil," manager Haycock told whufc.com. "It was
a good all-round display from the boys. We have raised the bar with this
performance and set our standards for the season ahead." West Ham rise to
third in the Group 1 table behind leaders Bolton (10 points) and Reading (8
points).
West Ham Utd: Larkins, Siafa (Girdlestone 65), Shaw, Onnariase, Nasha,
Cullen, Bywater, T.Tombides (Homans 70), Mavila, Sadlier (Miles 75),
Boakye-Yiadom.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dicks set for Irish role?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Julian Dicks is hoping to return to management with League of Ireland
Premier League club Shamrock Rovers. The Hoops, the Republic's most
successful club of all time are based in Dublin and play at the Tallaght
Stadium which has a capacity of just over 6,000. Over the weekend former
West Ham and Liverpool star Dicks - who was last in management in 2011 at
Grays Athletic - become the latest manager linked with replacing Stephen
Kenny, who was fired last week following the derby defeat against Bohemians.
And last night Dicks, speaking to KUMB.com, confirmed that he had applied
for the post. "It's true that I've put my name in to the hat," he said.
However he conceded that he faced stiff opposition from the likes of current
Hibs manager Pat Fenlon - the fans' choice to succeed Kenny - and Brian
Laws, the former Burnley manager who is also considered to be a front-runner
for the vacancy. Since ending his playing career, Dicks has held two jobs in
management - firstly at Eastern Counties League Premier Division club
Wivenhoe Town in 2009 and then at Grays Athletic, whom he managed between
September 2009 and May 2011.
In December of last year he was offered the opportunity to take over at Blue
Square Bet South outfit Dorchester Town but failed to agree personal terms.
Since then, the 44-year-old former left back has been working primarily as a
freelance coach and radio pundit - as well as penning a column here on
KUMB.com - but still harbours hopes of returning to full time management.
Shamrock Rovers chairman, Jonathan Roche, announcing the departure of Kenny
last week said: "We have not taken this decision lightly and we are
extremely disappointed with the turn of events. However, the club feels that
this is the right decision at this time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
You'll win nothing with digs
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has hit out at the BBC's Alan Hansen after the TV pundit
criticised West Ham United's co-chairman for interacting with supporters.
According to Gold, Hansen made a number of disparaging comments about the
76-year-old following an item he recorded for the BBC back in October 2010.
Speaking via his Twitter account over the weekend, Gold accused the former
Liverpool and Scotland defender of insulting him, whilst referring to him as
a "pompous fool". "I can't remember exactly [what he said]; I think he said
a good chair is a chairman that doesn't sign autographs or intereacts with
fans," Gold told followers of his Twitter feed. "He also implied that a good
chairman shouldn't have a football opinion. Alan Hansen is a pompous fool
and owes me an apology. "It's interesting that after my feature on Match of
the Day, the BBC sent my a copy of the show - but cut out the insulting
comments by Alan Hansen."
Gold, who was at Carrow Road on Saturday to watch West Ham earn their first
away point of the new season also told supporters that the World Cup
winners' statue - which was erected at the junction of Green Street and
Barking Road nine years ago - would be unlikely to make the move to
Stratford should United move there, as planned, in two years' time. "I would
be in favour of leaving the statues where they are and putting up replicas
at the new stadium," he said.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce believes West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen's confidence is
back
Last Updated: September 17, 2012 10:49am
SSN
Sam Allardyce believes Jussi Jaaskelainen's confidence has been rekindled
since moving to West Ham United and has praised the goalkeeper's impact.
Jaaskelainen joined the Hammers in the summer to replace Robert Green and
had previously spent over seven years playing under Allardyce at Bolton
Wanderers. The 37-year-old lost his place at Bolton in the second half of
last season, but Allardyce feels the Finn is back to his best after an
impressive display in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Norwich City. "The big man is
there to do a job and he has done the job superbly well for us," said the
West Ham boss. "I know that Jussi's strength was the coaching that Fred
Barber used to give him at Bolton, which he lost. "I knew that when he got
here with Martyn Margetson, that Marge would sort him out, put him back into
a right good frame of mind and rekindle all the old experience he used to
have. "Perhaps he had lost faith in himself a little bit and lost faith
because he wasn't playing, but Marge has rekindled his confidence and put
him in the right frame of mind."
Allardyce continued: "When you have got the experience that he has got and
are in your mid-30s, today you are still a very good goalkeeper if you want
to be.
"If you look at Brad Friedel, he is 41 now, so we know that being in your
mid to late 30s is not a problem anymore. "It is using that experience and
having the dedication to keep your body right, which Jussi does."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sport Football News Alan Hansen
By Mike Walters Comments 17 Sep 2012 22:31
The Mirror
'Hansen's a pompous fool': West Ham chief in Twitter blast at MOTD pundit
West Ham co-owner David Gold has branded Match Of The Day pundit Alan Hansen
a "pompous fool" in an amazing Twitter attack. Gold has not forgiven Hansen
for a throwaway remark he made about football club chairmen two years ago.
The Hammers' joint chairman had granted the BBC access all areas - including
to his palatial Surrey home and the directors' box at Upton Park - for a
behind-the-scenes feature on Match Of The Day 2. But, in the subsequent
studio discussion, hosted by presenter Colin Murray, Hansen was allegedly
dismissive of chairmen who sign autographs and pose for photographs with
fans. Gold was understood to be livid that his matchday hospitality should
be compromised by an obtuse comment.
And, buoyed by the Hammers' encouraging start on their return to the Premier
League mainstream (seven points and three clean sheets from four games),
Gold went on the warpath - and not because their goalless draw at Norwich
was the last game shown on MOTD on Saturday. Responding to a follower's
unconnected observation about Hansen, Gold posted: "I can't remember
exactly, I think he said a good chairman doesn't sign autographs or interact
with fans. He also implied that a good chairman shouldn't have a football
opinion. Alan Hansen is a pompous fool and owes me an apology. "It's
interesting that after my feature on MOTD, the BBC sent me a copy of the
show but cut out the insulting comments by AH. "The date of the interview
staring (sic) Alan Hansen was 3rd October 2010. Would love to get
unexpurgated copy."
Gold is not thought to have any problems with the BBC as a corporation or
Match Of The Day itself. His long-running beef is with Hansen, a
Double-winning Liverpool captain in 1986 and regarded as the doyen of
football pundits. When it was revealed in the summer that Hansen was paid
£40,000 a show, and was staying with Match Of The Day after agreeing to a
£500,000 wage decrease, Gold tweeted: "I see one of the worst and most
pompous pundits on BBC has taken a big pay cut. I'm stunned he gets paid at
all."
Gold and his long-time business associate David Sullivan bought a 62 per
cent majority stake in West Ham in January 2010, pumping around £100 million
into the club to save the Hammers from collapse. Their decision to axe
manager Gianfranco Zola and replace him with Avram Grant backfired, but Sam
Allardyce won promotion back to the top flight at the first attempt.
* WEST HAM manager Sam Allardyce has turned down the chance to sign free
agents Mikael Silvestre, John Mensah and Anthony Vanden Borre. The trio
joined the Hammers on trial last week, but Allardyce was not impressed and
has put a block on any permanent deals. Ex-Manchester United and Arsenal
defender Silvestre is without a club after leaving Werder Bremen, former
Portsmouth midfielder Vanden Borre was last at Belgian club Genk and
centre-back Mensah, once of Sunderland, left Lyon in July.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce challenges 'reluctant' Carroll to prove worth to Liverpool during
West Ham spell
Goal.com
18 Sep 2012 00:50:00
By Andrew Kennedy
Sam Allardyce has admitted that Andy Carroll was reluctant to leave
Liverpool and join West Ham on loan in the summer transfer window, but has
challenged the striker to prove his quality at Upton Park. The 23-year-old
endured a difficult year-and-a-half spell at Anfield following his £35
million switch from Newcastle, and after the arrival of new Reds boss
Brendan Rodgers, was made surplus to requirements at the club. West Ham's
early attempts to land Carroll were unsuccessful, with the England
international reported to prefer a return to Sports Direct Arena, however,
the Hammers eventually landed their man on the penultimate day of the
transfer window on a season-long loan deal. And Allardyce believes he can
show his worth to Liverpool during his time in east London, while also
helping to secure the club's Premier League survival. "Andy wasn't really
keen to leave Liverpool, which you can understand, because he was a big
transfer from Newcastle and wanted to show what he could do there. Wanted to
show Brendan what he could do," Allardyce said. "We tried in the early
stages of pre-season, but it just wasn't to be at the time. I think our
pursuit of Andy wasn't going to be successful until almost the death in
terms of the end of the transfer window. "But I think in the end he saw he
wasn't going to get those opportunities at Liverpool. First-team football
was what he wanted and what we could offer him, and ahead of a lot of other
Premier League clubs we were able to seal a deal thanks to the quick work of
[co-chairman] David Sullivan. "Andy's matured a lot since I worked with him
as a 19-year-old at Newcastle. He's been through the mill a bit, some
[critcism] deserved and some harsh. But now it' s all about his football,
he's totally focused on it and he wants to be playing football, and playing
first-team football. "And for us to get him on loan is a major coup for a
football club like us who are trying to establish ourselves back in the
Premier League."
Carroll's West Ham debut may have been cut short by injury, with a hamstring
problem ruling him out for up to six weeks, but the former Bolton boss
hailed his performance in the 3-0 win over Fulham as "one of the best" he
had seen since joining the club. "The lift that Andy gave everybody and the
reception he got from the West Ham fans lifted everybody. "For me it's
probably one of the best performance I've seen since I've joined West Ham.
"We overran them in the first half and the quality of our goals said
everything really and we missed even more chances to make it more than
three."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Juventus, West Ham Get Players as Uruguay's 'Ghost' Deals Mount
By Alex Duff - Sep 17, 2012 11:01 PM GMT
Bloomberg.com
Juventus (JUVE), AS Roma (ASR) and Porto agreed to pay a combined 11.1
million euros ($14.6 million) to hire players from Club Deportivo Maldonado,
a Uruguayan soccer team for which they never appeared, according to
stock-market filings. England's West Ham took a striker on loan. South
American teams and investors in the players' transfer rights move the
athletes' registrations through Uruguayan clubs to reduce tax on the trades
to as little as 5 percent from 20 percent, said Rodrigo Garcia, a lawyer at
Laffer Abogados in Madrid who has advised teams on such deals. Argentina's
tax authority said last month that the arrangements were irregular, and
Brazil's sports minister Aldo Rebelo said soccer ruling body FIFA should
outlaw the "ghost" club deals. At least $70 million of transfer fees went
through nine Uruguayan clubs in the same way since 2000, according to
Bloomberg News calculations. Uruguay's soccer federation declined to comment
yesterday. "This has been going on for years without anybody paying much
attention," Garcia said by telephone. "FIFA doesn't look on it favorably but
turns a deaf ear." The trades would only break FIFA rules if investors or
other third parties interfered in player movement, Garcia said.
'Tax Avoidance'
FIFA, which didn't immediately respond to a request for comment for this
story, is seeking to improve regulation of the $3 billion transfer market.
In 2010, the soccer authority made it compulsory to disclose bank details of
where transfer money goes via an Internet-based system. Mark Goddard, who
oversees the system, said at the time that soccer is "the last area of the
commercial world where large amounts of money can be moved without oversight
or regulation."
Deportivo Maldonado is a second-division team in Uruguay, where even the top
sides are traditionally weaker than Brazilian and Argentine counterparts in
continental competition. Trades through Uruguayan clubs amount to "damaging"
tax avoidance, with the transfer fees sometimes directed to offshore
companies, the Argentina tax agency said in an Aug. 24 statement. The
arrangement could be used to launder money, Brazil's Rebelo said in an Aug.
30 interview.
In February, FIFA began investigating after Mario Bursztyn, president of
Club Atletico Rentistas, said transfer fees involving Brazilian players
including "Hulk," whose real name is Givanildo Vieira de Souza, were
redirected through the Uruguayan team to a bank account in the name of Sao
Paulo-based player agent Juan Figer. The players concerned never appeared in
games for Rentistas. Bursztyn said in a Feb. 8 interview that Rentistas
received a monthly retainer fee under the arrangement.
Porto Signing
Figer follows all the rules of his profession, his spokesman Jose Aparecida
Miguel said in an e-mail at the time. Miguel didn't immediately return a
call and e-mail seeking comment for this story. In the Deportivo Maldonado
trades, Brazil's Alex Sandro joined Portuguese champion Porto (FCP) for 9.6
million euros. Marcelo Estigarribia went to current Italian champion
Juventus on loan last season for 500,000 euros and Paraguay teammate Ivan
Piris moved to Roma on loan for 700,000 euros this season. West Ham took
Brian Montenegro, another Paraguayan, on loan from Maldonado last season
without disclosing if a fee changed hands.
Porto spokesman Rui Cerqueira didn't return a call and e- mail seeking
comment on the arrangement. Juventus's Claudio Albanese declined to comment
about its hiring of Estigarribia, who is now on loan at Sampdoria. West Ham
said it had no comment, and Roma officials didn't immediately provide a
comment. Roma paid 300,000 euros for an option to sign Piris permanently for
4 million euros after this season, according to an Aug. 1 team statement.
Maldonado official Jorge Lopez said he was unable to discuss the trades.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nigel has a plan! Reo-Coker on verge of signing for Championship strugglers
Charlton
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 17 September 2012 | UPDATED: 22:30, 17 September 2012
Daily Mail
Nigel Reo-Coker is on the verge of joining Championship strugglers Charlton
on a free transfer. The 28-year-old former West Ham and Aston Villa
midfielder, who left Bolton at the end of last season, has been looking for
a club all summer and Chris Powell is prepared to take him on.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, September 17
Daily WHUFC News - 17th September 2012
Dev Squad earn West Brom draw
WHUFC.com
Rob Hall's equaliser saw the Development Squad draw 1-1 at West Bromwich
Albion
16.09.2012
West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Development Squad
The Development Squad earned an impressive 1-1 Barclays Under-21 Premier
League draw against an experienced West Bromwich Albion side at The
Hawthorns on Sunday afternoon. Despite the fact the Baggies had first-team
players Markus Rosenberg, Gabriel Tamas and Yassine El Ghanassy on show, the
Hammers matched their opponents and the game ended honours even, with both
goals coming in the opening ten minutes. The home side started brightly and
it was El Ghanassy who opened the scoring after just five minutes. Their
lead didn't last long, however, and Ian Hendon's side conjured the perfect
reaction, equalising just three minutes later through the ever-impressive
Rob Hall. Both sides made changes in the second half as they sought to find
a winning goal, but none was to be found as both sides had to settle for a
point. The Hammers have now picked up seven points from their opening four
fixtures, mirroring the records achieved by the first team and Under-18s.
Next up for the Development Squad is a home tie against Arsenal, who have a
100 per cent record in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League, at Rush Green
on Friday night - kick-off 7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s produce four-star display
WHUFC.com
West Ham United cruised to a 4-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory over
West Bromwich Albion
16.09.2012
West Ham United continued their encouraging start to the Barclays U18
Premier League season with a convincing 4-0 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Republic of Ireland age-group international Kieran Sadlier was on target
twice for the Hammers at Little Heath, while Nathan Mavila and Taylor Miles
completed the rout.
U18s coach Nick Haycock was naturally delighted with a victory that could
have easily been even more emphatic, despite the fact the team was missing
regular centre-forward Elliot Lee and England Under-18 defender Leo Chambers
due to their involvement in Sunday's Development Squad fixture.
"It was a deserved win," Haycock confirmed. "We had a young team out because
Elliot and Leo were unavailable, so we had four schoolboys involved on the
day. We always have faith in our youngsters and this result shows we are
doing things the right way.
"Manny Onnariase and Amos Nasha were superb at centre-back, Frazer Shaw was
outstanding at left-back, while Josh Cullen and Kieran Bywater controlled
the game in the middle of the park. Up front, Nathan, Kieran Sadlier and
Taylor Tombides supported Nana Boakye-Yiadom really well in what was a very
positive performance."
The opening goal was netted by Mavila following good interplay between
Tombides and Sadlier before Australia age-group international Tombides
combined with Cullen to cross for Sadlier to double the hosts' advantage
with a tap-in.
Shaw and Tombides linked-up well before Sadlier scored the third and the
icing on the cake was provided by substitute Miles, who created space for
himself before lashing in the fourth into the top corner.
"It could have been more than four-nil," said Haycock. "It was a good
all-round display from the boys. We have been doing a lot of work on variety
in our attacking play - playing in behind, playing up to the striker,
playing down the sides of the centre-backs - and that good attacking variety
paid off on Saturday.
"At the back we were very well organised and worked hard and our goalkeeper
Jake Larkins - an U19 who is allowed to play at this level - had very little
to do.
"We have raised the bar with this performance and set our standards for the
season ahead."
Like the first team, the U18s have now picked up seven points from their
opening four league matches. They travel to Arsenal for their next fixture
on Saturday 22 September.
West Ham United U18s: Larkins, Siafa (Girdlestone 65), Shaw, Onnariase,
Nasha, Cullen, Bywater, T.Tombides (Homans 70), Mavila, Sadlier (Miles 75),
Boakye-Yiadom
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid relishing lead role
WHUFC.com
Man of the match Winston Reid is loving life as an integral part of West Ham
United's starting XI
16.09.2012
Globetrotter Winston Reid is in arguably the finest form he has ever been in
a West Ham United shirt. Despite spending more than 24 hours in the air
travelling back from international duty with New Zealand last week, the
centre-back produced a man-of-the-match display in Saturday's goalless
Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City. The 24-year-old was
everywhere, winning headers, making vital interceptions and looking
comfortable in possession - traits that have been typical of the defender
signed from Danish side FC Midtjylland in the summer of 2010. After a tough
first campaign in English football that ended with West Ham being relegated,
Reid made himself indispensable last season as the Hammers won promotion and
has arguably reached even greater highs in helping his side to keep three
clean sheets in their opening four league matches. "I thought it was good to
come away with a clean sheet as Norwich is a tough place to come," the No2
told West Ham TV. "We had some chances to score but so did they so I thought
we deserved a point. "I think the whole defensive unit and the guys in front
of them have been working hard this season. I think we've done well. "I put
my own form down to hard work and to the rest of the guys as well. I think
if you work hard you get your rewards at the end. "My first season at the
club was a difficult season for me and for the whole club. Fortunately
enough, things have turned around."
When asked if he now felt like an integral member of Sam Allardyce's
starting XI, Reid was typically understated but did concede that he had the
confidence and belief that his name should be on the teamsheet every week.
"I think you have to feel like you're an important member of the team
otherwise you wouldn't have any confidence as a player. It's not about being
cocky or anything, but you have to believe in yourself like the rest of the
players do and think you should play week-in, week-out. When you get the
chance, it's just up to you to take it."
Reid's all-action performance was all the more impressive when you consider
that he had boarded six flights in the previous week-and-a-half, jetting to
Australia and then on to New Zealand and New Caledonia for two important
FIFA World Cup qualifiers. "I got back on Thursday night after three
stopovers, so it was about a 26 or 27-hour journey. I actually slept a lot
on the plane so it wasn't too bad, but I'm pretty knackered right now! "I
trained on Friday for a little bit so it was OK. I've got a couple of days
off so I'll enjoy that. "Saturday was a pretty tough game and the last 15
minutes were very tough so I was just trying to get through it, keep it
simple and help us to keep a clean sheet at the back."
Reid was assisted by an unbeatable display from goalkeeper Jussi
Jaaskelainen, who showed all of his ability and experience in keeping the
Canaries at bay at Carrow Road. "Jussi has been good for us. He communicates
very well and has obviously played in the Premier League for a number of
seasons so it's good for us to have someone like him behind us." Having
picked up their first away point of the season, the Auckland-born player is
now aiming to maintain the Hammers' 100 per cent home record when Sunderland
visit the Boleyn Ground next weekend. Aston Villa and Fulham have both left
east London empty-handed and Reid is confident that West Ham have more than
enough to defeat the Black Cats, despite the possible absence of England
international striker Andy Carroll. "Home form is always important in the
Premier League. Last year we didn't do too well but this season we've
started strongly at home and we want to keep that going. "We've got a lot of
firepower up there and were scoring goals before Andy came so I'm sure we'll
be fine."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce confirms Carroll 'recall' option
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 16th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has confirmed that Liverpool can recall Andy Carroll from his
loan spell at West Ham in January. Allardyce, speaking on satellite TV this
morning admitted that Carroll's loan contract does contain a clause allowing
the Merseysiders to take him back to Anfield in January should they so wish.
Speaking about the deal this morning, Big Sam said: "We couldn't agree on a
deal for Andy with Liverpool in the early stages, so it looked as if it
wasn't going to happen. Then, right at the very end, there was an
opportunity where he could leave and we struck that deal very quickly.
"There's an opportunity for Liverpool [to recall him] if they want to, but
whether they do or they don't will be in a matter of time. "If Andy's
playing for us on a regular basis by then and that's the case, he'll have
played a major part in keeping us in the league this year. In the end, the
deal was structured to get the player however you could get him, from my
point of view. "This player is that big, in my opinion, for us this season,
so you do whatever you can do to get the deal done."
Carroll - who missed yesterday's goalless draw at Norwich after sustaining a
hamstring injury on his debut against Fulham a fortnight ago was thought to
be looking at up to six weeks out. However there is thought to be a slim
chance that he could make his comeback as early as next weekend when West
Ham host Sunderland - who drew 1-1 with Carroll's parent club at the Stadium
of Light yesterday - even if Allardyce remained tight-lipped about his
chances of an early recovery. "The next international break comes on 6th
October 6," he said. "If he's fit before then we'll have done a magnificent
job. But I think it will be after that. "If the lads do the job they've
started to do then it won't be too desperate to rush him straight back.
We've got to be very careful that we don't rush it too much as the hamstring
might re-occur; that would be a disaster for us and for him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll in slow lane
By MIKE McGRATH
Published: 16th September 2012
The SUn
SAM ALLARDYCE is refusing to rush Andy Carroll back from injury — fearing
the striker will break down again. The on-loan Liverpool star is expected to
be sidelined for another month after suffering a hamstring problem on his
West Ham debut. Hammers boss Allardyce said: "The next window of
internationals is October 6 and if we get him fit before that we'll do a
magnificent job — but I don't think he will make that. "He didn't get a lot
of football at Liverpool and obviously has only had 68 minutes with us and
is recovering from his hamstring injury. "So we have to be very careful we
don't rush it too much and the injury reoccurs — that would be a disaster
for him and us." Liverpool can recall Carroll, 23, in January but Allardyce
added: "He wants to play football and as often as possible."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sport Football News West Ham United FC
By Mirror Football Comments 16 Sep 2012 22:30
Plenty of Juss left: Big Sam backs Jaaskelainen to keep on keeping on
The Mirror
Jussi Jaaskelainen was heading for the soccer scrapheap – now he is playing
a starring role in the Premier League. And it is all down to the belief of
his old boss Sam Allardyce and the hard work of West Ham and Wales
goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson. Allardyce , who managed Jaaskelainen at
Bolton, rescued him from reserve-team football this summer and handed him
over to Margetson. Together they have rebuilt Jaaskelainen's career and now
the 37-year-old Finland international is back to his best and repaying their
faith in him. Allardyce said: "I wasn't worried about signing him because I
knew that Martyn Margetson would sort him out.
"I knew Marge would quickly get him back into a great frame of mind and
rekindle all his old enthusiasm. "Perhaps Jussi had just lost faith in
himself a bit because he wasn't playing regularly. "But Marge has now
rekindled all his old confidence and got him back into the right frame of
mind. "When you have the sort of experience Jussi has, even though your are
in your late thirties, you can still be a very good keeper if you want to
be. "Just look at Brad Friedel of Spurs, who is 41 now. So Jussi being in
his late thirties isn't a problem for me. "It's all about using that
experience and having the dedication to look after your body and that's what
Jussi does."
The big man was a human brick wall at the back for the Hammers, beating away
everything Norwich could throw at him. Jaaskelainen could easily have been
playing for the Canaries but for a twist of fate 15 years ago. Norwich were
all set to sign him after an impressive trial before Bolton nipped in and
offered him more money!
Jaaskelainen saved superbly from defenders Russell Martin and Sebastien
Bassong and striker Simeon Jackson. But his most important block came from
substitute Harry Kane in stoppage time, to ensure West Ham kept their clean
sheet and a vital point. Hammers defender James Collins said: "The basis of
our whole game is keeping a clean sheet. Do that and you have always got a
chance of winning. "So we are delighted to have done that, although we are a
bit disappointed we didn't nick a goal. "Jussi made some great saves but he
has been doing that for years now – he was probably doing that before Harry
Kane was even born! "All the experience he has really helps the boys at the
back, he's a good talker and he's great in the dressing room as well."
Norwich boss Chris Hughton consoled Kane, 19, who was making his debut after
being signed on loan from Spurs. Hughton said: "Harry is just a young player
and he had a wonderful opportunity to score so he will probably be going
over it in his mind again and again. "But he has to do what goalkeepers do
when they make a mistake, just put it right behind him straight away. He
will certainly learn from it. "We are looking more solid defensively now but
definitely need more of a cutting edge in front of goal. "The options are
there for me to change things and experiment. But we need something that is
going to get us wins."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce won't rush West Ham striker Andy Carroll back from injury
Last Updated: September 17, 2012 9:19am
SSN
Sam Allardyce is determined not to rush Andy Carroll back from his hamstring
injury and believes it will be after the next international break when the
West Ham United striker is ready to return. Carroll joined the Hammers on a
season-long loan from Liverpool before the transfer window closed and
enjoyed an impressive debut in the 3-0 win over Fulham. However, the England
international was forced off in the second half after hurting his hamstring
and Hammers boss Allardyce is taking a cautious approach with Carroll's
recovery. "The next window of international break comes on October 6, so if
he's fit before then we'll have done a magnificent job, but I probably don't
think so," Allardyce told Goals on Sunday. "I think it will be after that.
"If the lads do the job they've started to do then it won't be too desperate
to rush him straight back. "He's not had a lot of pre-season because of the
European Championships and he didn't have a lot of football at Liverpool.
"We've got to be very careful that we don't rush it too much and the
hamstring might reoccur because that would be a disaster for us and for
him."
Meanwhile, Allardyce hopes the arrival of Carroll can help inspire Carlton
Cole, who had an early shot cleared off the line during West Ham's 0-0 draw
at Norwich on Saturday. "Carlton has got stiff competition because all of a
sudden he has seen a centre-forward that has come from Liverpool, who Kenny
[Dalglish] paid £35million for," said Allardyce. "It is one where you have
to look at it and say 'what am I going to do? Am I going to shrivel up and
die or am I going to roll up my sleeves and flight?' "In this league when
you have got competition it has got to bring the best out of you, it is a
simple as that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam says...
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce was on the Goals on Sunday sofa this week and
chatted to Ben Shephard and Chris Kamara about West Ham's season, summer
signings and several of the big talking points in the game right now. Here's
a few highlights from an entertaining show...
Last Updated: September 16, 2012 2:39pm
SSN
We couldn't agree in the early stages with Liverpool on a deal for Andy, so
it looked as if it wasn't going to happen - and then right at the very end
there was an opportunity where he could leave and we struck that deal very
quickly. There's an opportunity for Liverpool [to get him back in January]
if they want to, but whether they do or they don't will be in a matter of
time. If Andy's playing for us on a regular basis by then and that's the
case, he'll have played a major part in keeping us in the league this year.
In the end, the deal was structured to get the player however you could get
him, from my point of view. This player is that big, in my opinion, for us
this season, so you do whatever you can do to get the deal done.
Big Sam on... Andy Carroll's return to fitness
The next window of international break comes on October 6, so if he's fit
before then we'll have done a magnificent job, but I probably don't think
so. I think it will be after that. If the lads do the job they've started to
do then it won't be too desperate to rush him straight back. He's not had a
lot of pre-season because of the European Championships and he didn't have a
lot of football at Liverpool. We've got to be very careful that we don't
rush it too much and the hamstring might reoccur because that would be a
disaster for us and for him.
Big Sam on... failing to sign Dimitar Berbatov for West Ham
We couldn't afford him. The problem was the transfer fee and the size of the
salary was out of our domain this season in terms of our budget. Fulham
created their own transfer funds. They knew Clint Dempsey was moving on, and
one or two others, and that gave them the opportunity to go big. They were
interested in Andy Carroll as well, I believe, and we were glad to get Andy
on a loan basis but they obviously clinched Dimitar Berbatov. I think he was
on his way to Italy, but it shows you how popular the Barclays Premier
League is that he turned down a move to Fiorentina because he wanted to move
down to London and play for Fulham.
Big Sam on... the Anton Ferdinand / John Terry handshake row
We shouldn't have had it. Don't do it. We can rid of the handshake
altogether; that's not a problem for every player in this division that I
speak to - or every manager. It was introduced on the back of a World Cup
and it was introduced in the Premier League. Now no player would bother
whether we do it or whether we don't do it. In this particular instance, if
you knew there was going to be a problem then don't do it in the first
place. Just go out, do the warm-up and play the game.
Big Sam on... Fernando Torres' reaction to being substituted against QPR
It's petty and childish. For me, it shows a lack of character by the player.
Chelsea's a big football club and it's got a big squad that needs to be used
all the way through. He's not scoring as many goals as he used to, but he's
getting better. If the manager makes a decision you don't show your dissent
by walking down the tunnel; you sit on the bench and go and see your manager
on a Monday or Tuesday and discuss the reasons why you've been brought off.
For me, that's unprofessional.
Big Sam on... West Ham's 0-0 draw with Norwich
We started very well and created a few chances in the first few minutes.
When you're playing away from home you want to capitalise on that and we
didn't. Then Norwich came back into the game and both sides missed a few
chances. In the end we got a 0-0 and we were very satisfied with that. The
disappointing thing was probably our final-third play and in the second half
when we got in good positions we didn't find the right sort of quality to
create a really good chance.
Big Sam on... sticking to his style
Big Sam won't sacrifice style
The players know what my beliefs are and how to play football in the right
way to win games. That incorporates a variation of football to win a game
which is put in front of you week in and week out. Our adaptability and my
desire for the players to be adaptable to different ways to play - and not
just one way - is the reason why, I think, I've moved into the 20th year of
managing and most of it at the top level. My beliefs are strong and nobody
will damage those beliefs because they've been successful for me for a long
time.
Big Sam on... his ambitions for this season
The least is fourth from bottom and the best is 10th, depending on keeping
the players fit and players reproducing the ability we know they've got in
the Premier League. We've got a lot of experienced players who've played in
the Premier League and they've got to re-establish that quality they've
shown before in a West Ham shirt. If they reproduce that quality it will
hopefully give us a good season and we'll not just think about survival.
Big Sam on... failing to sign Samuel Eto'o for Bolton
He was at Mallorca and I had to try and convince the chairman at the time
that the eight million euros would have been the best eight million euros
he'd ever spent and this player would be worth 20 to 25 million in the
future. The thing was, we could have got him to come to England and at that
particular time he would have been a bit of a capture.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Rob Hall's equaliser saw the Development Squad draw 1-1 at West Bromwich
Albion
16.09.2012
West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Development Squad
The Development Squad earned an impressive 1-1 Barclays Under-21 Premier
League draw against an experienced West Bromwich Albion side at The
Hawthorns on Sunday afternoon. Despite the fact the Baggies had first-team
players Markus Rosenberg, Gabriel Tamas and Yassine El Ghanassy on show, the
Hammers matched their opponents and the game ended honours even, with both
goals coming in the opening ten minutes. The home side started brightly and
it was El Ghanassy who opened the scoring after just five minutes. Their
lead didn't last long, however, and Ian Hendon's side conjured the perfect
reaction, equalising just three minutes later through the ever-impressive
Rob Hall. Both sides made changes in the second half as they sought to find
a winning goal, but none was to be found as both sides had to settle for a
point. The Hammers have now picked up seven points from their opening four
fixtures, mirroring the records achieved by the first team and Under-18s.
Next up for the Development Squad is a home tie against Arsenal, who have a
100 per cent record in the Barclays Under-21 Premier League, at Rush Green
on Friday night - kick-off 7pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s produce four-star display
WHUFC.com
West Ham United cruised to a 4-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory over
West Bromwich Albion
16.09.2012
West Ham United continued their encouraging start to the Barclays U18
Premier League season with a convincing 4-0 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Republic of Ireland age-group international Kieran Sadlier was on target
twice for the Hammers at Little Heath, while Nathan Mavila and Taylor Miles
completed the rout.
U18s coach Nick Haycock was naturally delighted with a victory that could
have easily been even more emphatic, despite the fact the team was missing
regular centre-forward Elliot Lee and England Under-18 defender Leo Chambers
due to their involvement in Sunday's Development Squad fixture.
"It was a deserved win," Haycock confirmed. "We had a young team out because
Elliot and Leo were unavailable, so we had four schoolboys involved on the
day. We always have faith in our youngsters and this result shows we are
doing things the right way.
"Manny Onnariase and Amos Nasha were superb at centre-back, Frazer Shaw was
outstanding at left-back, while Josh Cullen and Kieran Bywater controlled
the game in the middle of the park. Up front, Nathan, Kieran Sadlier and
Taylor Tombides supported Nana Boakye-Yiadom really well in what was a very
positive performance."
The opening goal was netted by Mavila following good interplay between
Tombides and Sadlier before Australia age-group international Tombides
combined with Cullen to cross for Sadlier to double the hosts' advantage
with a tap-in.
Shaw and Tombides linked-up well before Sadlier scored the third and the
icing on the cake was provided by substitute Miles, who created space for
himself before lashing in the fourth into the top corner.
"It could have been more than four-nil," said Haycock. "It was a good
all-round display from the boys. We have been doing a lot of work on variety
in our attacking play - playing in behind, playing up to the striker,
playing down the sides of the centre-backs - and that good attacking variety
paid off on Saturday.
"At the back we were very well organised and worked hard and our goalkeeper
Jake Larkins - an U19 who is allowed to play at this level - had very little
to do.
"We have raised the bar with this performance and set our standards for the
season ahead."
Like the first team, the U18s have now picked up seven points from their
opening four league matches. They travel to Arsenal for their next fixture
on Saturday 22 September.
West Ham United U18s: Larkins, Siafa (Girdlestone 65), Shaw, Onnariase,
Nasha, Cullen, Bywater, T.Tombides (Homans 70), Mavila, Sadlier (Miles 75),
Boakye-Yiadom
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid relishing lead role
WHUFC.com
Man of the match Winston Reid is loving life as an integral part of West Ham
United's starting XI
16.09.2012
Globetrotter Winston Reid is in arguably the finest form he has ever been in
a West Ham United shirt. Despite spending more than 24 hours in the air
travelling back from international duty with New Zealand last week, the
centre-back produced a man-of-the-match display in Saturday's goalless
Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City. The 24-year-old was
everywhere, winning headers, making vital interceptions and looking
comfortable in possession - traits that have been typical of the defender
signed from Danish side FC Midtjylland in the summer of 2010. After a tough
first campaign in English football that ended with West Ham being relegated,
Reid made himself indispensable last season as the Hammers won promotion and
has arguably reached even greater highs in helping his side to keep three
clean sheets in their opening four league matches. "I thought it was good to
come away with a clean sheet as Norwich is a tough place to come," the No2
told West Ham TV. "We had some chances to score but so did they so I thought
we deserved a point. "I think the whole defensive unit and the guys in front
of them have been working hard this season. I think we've done well. "I put
my own form down to hard work and to the rest of the guys as well. I think
if you work hard you get your rewards at the end. "My first season at the
club was a difficult season for me and for the whole club. Fortunately
enough, things have turned around."
When asked if he now felt like an integral member of Sam Allardyce's
starting XI, Reid was typically understated but did concede that he had the
confidence and belief that his name should be on the teamsheet every week.
"I think you have to feel like you're an important member of the team
otherwise you wouldn't have any confidence as a player. It's not about being
cocky or anything, but you have to believe in yourself like the rest of the
players do and think you should play week-in, week-out. When you get the
chance, it's just up to you to take it."
Reid's all-action performance was all the more impressive when you consider
that he had boarded six flights in the previous week-and-a-half, jetting to
Australia and then on to New Zealand and New Caledonia for two important
FIFA World Cup qualifiers. "I got back on Thursday night after three
stopovers, so it was about a 26 or 27-hour journey. I actually slept a lot
on the plane so it wasn't too bad, but I'm pretty knackered right now! "I
trained on Friday for a little bit so it was OK. I've got a couple of days
off so I'll enjoy that. "Saturday was a pretty tough game and the last 15
minutes were very tough so I was just trying to get through it, keep it
simple and help us to keep a clean sheet at the back."
Reid was assisted by an unbeatable display from goalkeeper Jussi
Jaaskelainen, who showed all of his ability and experience in keeping the
Canaries at bay at Carrow Road. "Jussi has been good for us. He communicates
very well and has obviously played in the Premier League for a number of
seasons so it's good for us to have someone like him behind us." Having
picked up their first away point of the season, the Auckland-born player is
now aiming to maintain the Hammers' 100 per cent home record when Sunderland
visit the Boleyn Ground next weekend. Aston Villa and Fulham have both left
east London empty-handed and Reid is confident that West Ham have more than
enough to defeat the Black Cats, despite the possible absence of England
international striker Andy Carroll. "Home form is always important in the
Premier League. Last year we didn't do too well but this season we've
started strongly at home and we want to keep that going. "We've got a lot of
firepower up there and were scoring goals before Andy came so I'm sure we'll
be fine."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce confirms Carroll 'recall' option
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 16th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce has confirmed that Liverpool can recall Andy Carroll from his
loan spell at West Ham in January. Allardyce, speaking on satellite TV this
morning admitted that Carroll's loan contract does contain a clause allowing
the Merseysiders to take him back to Anfield in January should they so wish.
Speaking about the deal this morning, Big Sam said: "We couldn't agree on a
deal for Andy with Liverpool in the early stages, so it looked as if it
wasn't going to happen. Then, right at the very end, there was an
opportunity where he could leave and we struck that deal very quickly.
"There's an opportunity for Liverpool [to recall him] if they want to, but
whether they do or they don't will be in a matter of time. "If Andy's
playing for us on a regular basis by then and that's the case, he'll have
played a major part in keeping us in the league this year. In the end, the
deal was structured to get the player however you could get him, from my
point of view. "This player is that big, in my opinion, for us this season,
so you do whatever you can do to get the deal done."
Carroll - who missed yesterday's goalless draw at Norwich after sustaining a
hamstring injury on his debut against Fulham a fortnight ago was thought to
be looking at up to six weeks out. However there is thought to be a slim
chance that he could make his comeback as early as next weekend when West
Ham host Sunderland - who drew 1-1 with Carroll's parent club at the Stadium
of Light yesterday - even if Allardyce remained tight-lipped about his
chances of an early recovery. "The next international break comes on 6th
October 6," he said. "If he's fit before then we'll have done a magnificent
job. But I think it will be after that. "If the lads do the job they've
started to do then it won't be too desperate to rush him straight back.
We've got to be very careful that we don't rush it too much as the hamstring
might re-occur; that would be a disaster for us and for him."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll in slow lane
By MIKE McGRATH
Published: 16th September 2012
The SUn
SAM ALLARDYCE is refusing to rush Andy Carroll back from injury — fearing
the striker will break down again. The on-loan Liverpool star is expected to
be sidelined for another month after suffering a hamstring problem on his
West Ham debut. Hammers boss Allardyce said: "The next window of
internationals is October 6 and if we get him fit before that we'll do a
magnificent job — but I don't think he will make that. "He didn't get a lot
of football at Liverpool and obviously has only had 68 minutes with us and
is recovering from his hamstring injury. "So we have to be very careful we
don't rush it too much and the injury reoccurs — that would be a disaster
for him and us." Liverpool can recall Carroll, 23, in January but Allardyce
added: "He wants to play football and as often as possible."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sport Football News West Ham United FC
By Mirror Football Comments 16 Sep 2012 22:30
Plenty of Juss left: Big Sam backs Jaaskelainen to keep on keeping on
The Mirror
Jussi Jaaskelainen was heading for the soccer scrapheap – now he is playing
a starring role in the Premier League. And it is all down to the belief of
his old boss Sam Allardyce and the hard work of West Ham and Wales
goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson. Allardyce , who managed Jaaskelainen at
Bolton, rescued him from reserve-team football this summer and handed him
over to Margetson. Together they have rebuilt Jaaskelainen's career and now
the 37-year-old Finland international is back to his best and repaying their
faith in him. Allardyce said: "I wasn't worried about signing him because I
knew that Martyn Margetson would sort him out.
"I knew Marge would quickly get him back into a great frame of mind and
rekindle all his old enthusiasm. "Perhaps Jussi had just lost faith in
himself a bit because he wasn't playing regularly. "But Marge has now
rekindled all his old confidence and got him back into the right frame of
mind. "When you have the sort of experience Jussi has, even though your are
in your late thirties, you can still be a very good keeper if you want to
be. "Just look at Brad Friedel of Spurs, who is 41 now. So Jussi being in
his late thirties isn't a problem for me. "It's all about using that
experience and having the dedication to look after your body and that's what
Jussi does."
The big man was a human brick wall at the back for the Hammers, beating away
everything Norwich could throw at him. Jaaskelainen could easily have been
playing for the Canaries but for a twist of fate 15 years ago. Norwich were
all set to sign him after an impressive trial before Bolton nipped in and
offered him more money!
Jaaskelainen saved superbly from defenders Russell Martin and Sebastien
Bassong and striker Simeon Jackson. But his most important block came from
substitute Harry Kane in stoppage time, to ensure West Ham kept their clean
sheet and a vital point. Hammers defender James Collins said: "The basis of
our whole game is keeping a clean sheet. Do that and you have always got a
chance of winning. "So we are delighted to have done that, although we are a
bit disappointed we didn't nick a goal. "Jussi made some great saves but he
has been doing that for years now – he was probably doing that before Harry
Kane was even born! "All the experience he has really helps the boys at the
back, he's a good talker and he's great in the dressing room as well."
Norwich boss Chris Hughton consoled Kane, 19, who was making his debut after
being signed on loan from Spurs. Hughton said: "Harry is just a young player
and he had a wonderful opportunity to score so he will probably be going
over it in his mind again and again. "But he has to do what goalkeepers do
when they make a mistake, just put it right behind him straight away. He
will certainly learn from it. "We are looking more solid defensively now but
definitely need more of a cutting edge in front of goal. "The options are
there for me to change things and experiment. But we need something that is
going to get us wins."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce won't rush West Ham striker Andy Carroll back from injury
Last Updated: September 17, 2012 9:19am
SSN
Sam Allardyce is determined not to rush Andy Carroll back from his hamstring
injury and believes it will be after the next international break when the
West Ham United striker is ready to return. Carroll joined the Hammers on a
season-long loan from Liverpool before the transfer window closed and
enjoyed an impressive debut in the 3-0 win over Fulham. However, the England
international was forced off in the second half after hurting his hamstring
and Hammers boss Allardyce is taking a cautious approach with Carroll's
recovery. "The next window of international break comes on October 6, so if
he's fit before then we'll have done a magnificent job, but I probably don't
think so," Allardyce told Goals on Sunday. "I think it will be after that.
"If the lads do the job they've started to do then it won't be too desperate
to rush him straight back. "He's not had a lot of pre-season because of the
European Championships and he didn't have a lot of football at Liverpool.
"We've got to be very careful that we don't rush it too much and the
hamstring might reoccur because that would be a disaster for us and for
him."
Meanwhile, Allardyce hopes the arrival of Carroll can help inspire Carlton
Cole, who had an early shot cleared off the line during West Ham's 0-0 draw
at Norwich on Saturday. "Carlton has got stiff competition because all of a
sudden he has seen a centre-forward that has come from Liverpool, who Kenny
[Dalglish] paid £35million for," said Allardyce. "It is one where you have
to look at it and say 'what am I going to do? Am I going to shrivel up and
die or am I going to roll up my sleeves and flight?' "In this league when
you have got competition it has got to bring the best out of you, it is a
simple as that."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam says...
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce was on the Goals on Sunday sofa this week and
chatted to Ben Shephard and Chris Kamara about West Ham's season, summer
signings and several of the big talking points in the game right now. Here's
a few highlights from an entertaining show...
Last Updated: September 16, 2012 2:39pm
SSN
We couldn't agree in the early stages with Liverpool on a deal for Andy, so
it looked as if it wasn't going to happen - and then right at the very end
there was an opportunity where he could leave and we struck that deal very
quickly. There's an opportunity for Liverpool [to get him back in January]
if they want to, but whether they do or they don't will be in a matter of
time. If Andy's playing for us on a regular basis by then and that's the
case, he'll have played a major part in keeping us in the league this year.
In the end, the deal was structured to get the player however you could get
him, from my point of view. This player is that big, in my opinion, for us
this season, so you do whatever you can do to get the deal done.
Big Sam on... Andy Carroll's return to fitness
The next window of international break comes on October 6, so if he's fit
before then we'll have done a magnificent job, but I probably don't think
so. I think it will be after that. If the lads do the job they've started to
do then it won't be too desperate to rush him straight back. He's not had a
lot of pre-season because of the European Championships and he didn't have a
lot of football at Liverpool. We've got to be very careful that we don't
rush it too much and the hamstring might reoccur because that would be a
disaster for us and for him.
Big Sam on... failing to sign Dimitar Berbatov for West Ham
We couldn't afford him. The problem was the transfer fee and the size of the
salary was out of our domain this season in terms of our budget. Fulham
created their own transfer funds. They knew Clint Dempsey was moving on, and
one or two others, and that gave them the opportunity to go big. They were
interested in Andy Carroll as well, I believe, and we were glad to get Andy
on a loan basis but they obviously clinched Dimitar Berbatov. I think he was
on his way to Italy, but it shows you how popular the Barclays Premier
League is that he turned down a move to Fiorentina because he wanted to move
down to London and play for Fulham.
Big Sam on... the Anton Ferdinand / John Terry handshake row
We shouldn't have had it. Don't do it. We can rid of the handshake
altogether; that's not a problem for every player in this division that I
speak to - or every manager. It was introduced on the back of a World Cup
and it was introduced in the Premier League. Now no player would bother
whether we do it or whether we don't do it. In this particular instance, if
you knew there was going to be a problem then don't do it in the first
place. Just go out, do the warm-up and play the game.
Big Sam on... Fernando Torres' reaction to being substituted against QPR
It's petty and childish. For me, it shows a lack of character by the player.
Chelsea's a big football club and it's got a big squad that needs to be used
all the way through. He's not scoring as many goals as he used to, but he's
getting better. If the manager makes a decision you don't show your dissent
by walking down the tunnel; you sit on the bench and go and see your manager
on a Monday or Tuesday and discuss the reasons why you've been brought off.
For me, that's unprofessional.
Big Sam on... West Ham's 0-0 draw with Norwich
We started very well and created a few chances in the first few minutes.
When you're playing away from home you want to capitalise on that and we
didn't. Then Norwich came back into the game and both sides missed a few
chances. In the end we got a 0-0 and we were very satisfied with that. The
disappointing thing was probably our final-third play and in the second half
when we got in good positions we didn't find the right sort of quality to
create a really good chance.
Big Sam on... sticking to his style
Big Sam won't sacrifice style
The players know what my beliefs are and how to play football in the right
way to win games. That incorporates a variation of football to win a game
which is put in front of you week in and week out. Our adaptability and my
desire for the players to be adaptable to different ways to play - and not
just one way - is the reason why, I think, I've moved into the 20th year of
managing and most of it at the top level. My beliefs are strong and nobody
will damage those beliefs because they've been successful for me for a long
time.
Big Sam on... his ambitions for this season
The least is fourth from bottom and the best is 10th, depending on keeping
the players fit and players reproducing the ability we know they've got in
the Premier League. We've got a lot of experienced players who've played in
the Premier League and they've got to re-establish that quality they've
shown before in a West Ham shirt. If they reproduce that quality it will
hopefully give us a good season and we'll not just think about survival.
Big Sam on... failing to sign Samuel Eto'o for Bolton
He was at Mallorca and I had to try and convince the chairman at the time
that the eight million euros would have been the best eight million euros
he'd ever spent and this player would be worth 20 to 25 million in the
future. The thing was, we could have got him to come to England and at that
particular time he would have been a bit of a capture.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Sunday, September 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th September 2012
Big Sam content with 'hard-earned' point
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce accepted the draw and clean sheet West Ham United collected at
Norwich City on Saturday
15.09.2012
Sam Allardyce was left harbouring mixed emotions following West Ham United's
goalless Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City. Big Sam was happy to
see his side achieve a third clean sheet in four league matches - four in
five in all competitions - this season, but lamented the lack of a clinical
cross or finish in the final-third that denied his team victory. Speaking to
West Ham TV, the manager saw his team start well at Carrow Road, only for
Kevin Nolan, Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te all to be denied an opening
goal. Norwich came back strongly, with one goalmouth melee seeing Jussi
Jaaskelainen make two fine saves before the break.
Into the second half and the end-to-end nature of the game continued as
Jaaskelainen thwarted Simeon Jackson and Robert Snodgrass, while substitute
Matt Jarvis saw one shot deflected narrowly wide and a succession of crosses
come agonisingly close to producing an opening. "It was unbelievable that it
finished goalless for both sides, really," said Big Sam. "In the early
stages were the dominant side in terms of chances created and the
disappointing thing for us was not getting our noses in front at that
particular stage in the first ten or 15 minutes. "I didn't expect us to miss
those chances, to be honest, with the way we were finishing against Fulham.
The chances that fell to us on Saturday were easier than the ones we scored
against Fulham. "Norwich came back into the game and we needed some
desperate defending at times to keep our clean sheet and keep them out. We
then got back in the game again but couldn't get the final ball right to
create more chances until Matt Jarvis came on. "Matt had a chance on the
edge of the boxes and put two great crosses in that we could have done
better with. The only disappointing thing was the fact Ricardo Vaz Te, Matt
Taylor, Joey O'Brien and Guy Demel didn't produce the sort of ball in the
final-third to punish Norwich. "Particularly going into the last
half-an-hour when they had lost their rhythm and shape, we were playing on
the break and exposing the space they were leaving. We were getting to the
final-third with no challenge from the opposition but fluffing the final
ball, be it the cross or the shot. That was the only frustrating thing for
me in the second half."
With Jaaskelainen and man of the match Winston Reid outstanding, West Ham
kept a third clean sheet in four Premier League matches played. That record
has seen the Hammers collect seven points from 12 and lose just once - an
error-strewn defeat at Swansea City. Big Sam believes that defensive
resilience will aid West Ham's hopes of enjoying a productive first season
back in the top-flight, labelling clean sheets the 'platform' on which
victories and valuable draws will be achieved. "Looking at the overall game,
I think it was a well-earned point because it could have gone either way
when you look at the 90 minutes. So, in saying that, a point away from when
you're just starting back in the Barclays Premier League is more than
acceptable. We started with a clean sheet and ended up with it and you have
to build a platform to be a successful side. Resilience is very important in
this league and we showed some really good resilience and determined
defending and showed some quality football apart from the final pass, cross
or shot. "The platform to build any successful side on is to concede fewer
goals than anyone else and if you do that then one goal wins you three
points. Generally, if you know you have a solid defence then you will end up
winning games two or three-nil because you are so confident about your
defending that the opposition open themselves up to try to break you down
and you punish them even more. "It builds the confidence of everybody to
know we're a solid unit and we're not going to have to score two or three
goals every time we play to win a game."
Norwich had started the second half in the ascendancy, but the Hammers were
able to turn the tide following the introduction of Jarvis and Modibo Maiga
just before the hour-mark. Jarvis helped lift the pressure with his running,
dribbling ability and pace, while Maiga offered a willing figure to trouble
the Canaries' centre-backs.
With Yossi Benayoun also appearing late on, Alou Diarra, James Tomkins and
George McCartney also on the bench and Andy Carroll and Jack Collison close
to returning from injury, the manager believes the strength in depth in his
squad can only be of benefit going forward. "I couldn't include Gary O'Neil
on my bench today - that's how strong my squad has got. He was very
disappointed that he didn't get his place on a seven-man bench but that
shows the depth and the talent in the squad now. Gary will get his chance at
some stage, I am sure about that. "Andy Carroll and Jack Collison are also
back at the training ground getting treatment, so there are another two
players. We have a 22-man squad with talent. The talent came on today and
tried to help us go up to that next level and win when the talent that was
already on the field was a little bit tired. "That's a massive thing to be
having on your substitutes' bench because if you haven't got it, then you're
bringing on a fresher player but reducing the talent. I don't think we're
doing that. We have players who can come on and make a difference from the
bench."
Finally, one player who has excelled so far this season - as he did last
term - is defender Reid. Despite travelling halfway around the world
following his midweek international duty with New Zealand, the 24-year-old
showed no signs of weariness to produce a truly outstanding performance. Big
Sam hailed the Kiwi's display, pointing to the development he has made as a
player over the past 12 months. "I don't want Reidy to get too big for his
boots but I think his growth in our team has been superb. When we had that
bad run of draws last season it's because he wasn't there. He was missing
because he got concussion playing in a friendly for New Zealand. "He missed
all those games and we conceded in most of those games. Winston Reid came
back and we went on to win, particularly at home, our games going into the
Play-Offs because he was there. "He has now carried that form into the
Premier League and shown that his all-round defending is exceptionally good
and I'm really pleased for him. His learning curve in one year has been
massive and he's looking excellent."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCallum making up for lost time
WHUFC.com
Paul McCallum has put an frustrating season behind him by starting the
season in fine form
15.09.2012
Paul McCallum is looking to continue his superb start to the 2012/13 season
when the Development Squad head to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. The
19-year-old striker has bagged three goals in three Barclays Under-21
Premier League fixtures so far this term, helping to fire the Hammers to
comprehensive victories over Reading and Everton. For the former Dulwich
Hamlet forward, it has been a case of making up for lost time after he
missed the majority of last season after suffering a fractured tibia. With
his first professional contract expiring at the end of the present campaign,
McCallum has every incentive to maintain his form. "I'm happy about scoring
three goals in three games individually, but collectively I'm really happy
for the team because they've been brilliant as well," said McCallum. "We
made a couple of changes and lost to Bolton in our third game, but we've got
to move on to The Hawthorns on Sunday and hopefully we can get another win.
"Last year, I was injured for the majority of the season, so I've had
determination to get back into the squad and do well. It was very important
that I had a good year last year, but I couldn't because of my shin. It's
made me even more determined to prove this year that I am good enough to be
here. "Playing at big stadia like The Hawthorns is a great experience.
Whereas before I was playing in front of a few people, we're playing in
front of big crowds and it feels good."
McCallum is part of a group of players who work with Development Squad coach
Ian Hendon on a daily basis. The teenager believes that the understanding
and team spirit among the club's younger players has been key to their
encouraging start. "I think it's good that we've been put into a reserve
league because last year we didn't have a proper league and were playing
friendlies here and there. This year we have a proper team and everybody
knows their job and straight away it has felt right. "Having Rob Hall
playing behind me has also given me a lot of confidence as well because I
know he is always going to be there when I bring the ball down."
As he continues to work on his own game and hones his skills as a targetman,
McCallum said he is looking forward to working with England international
Andy Carroll on the training pitch. "Andy Carroll has the aerial game that I
am good at and I need to show the gaffer that I can do it as well as the
other players and get into the first-team squad. "When I signed, we were in
the Premier League so that gave me a big boost in confidence, but last year
my confidence went right down. I've got three goals in three games now and
my confidence is high and I want to keep on scoring."
Looking further forward, the striker was named on the substitutes' bench for
the Capital One Cup second-round win over Crewe Alexandra. He is hoping for
a repeat when the Hammers host Wigan Athletic in the third round on Tuesday
25 September. "Against Crewe I was disappointed that I didn't get on, but on
the other hand I was very happy that I was on the bench. Against Wigan,
hopefully if I can get a few goals against West Brom on Sunday, then who
knows?" Sunday's match will be at The Hawthorns, with kick-off at 2pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich 0 West Ham 0
By Jimmy Smallwood
BBC Sport
Norwich are still searching for their first win of the season after a
goalless draw with West Ham. The hosts had appeals for a first-half penalty
rejected, with the referee correctly adjudging Andrew Surman to have been
fouled just outside the area. West Ham crafted several openings too, with
Canaries keeper John Ruddy forced into a number of point-blank saves. There
were enough chances today for this to finish 2-2. Norwich loanee Harry Kane
had two really good chances after coming off the bench, but couldn't find
the breakthrough goal. It's all a bit frustrating for the Canaries, and West
Ham will be the happier of the two teams with the outcome. But neither side
could break the deadlock, leaving Norwich winless and West Ham frustrated on
their travels. The visitors were having to manage without loan signing Andy
Carroll, a hamstring strain ruling the forward out of the Carrow Road
contest. Carlton Cole deputised in attack for the Hammers, who started the
stronger in an open, fluid game. The Canaries' England international
goalkeeper Ruddy was forced into a series of impressive close-range saves,
denying Ricardo Vaz Te, Cole and Kevin Nolan in the space of eight
first-half minutes.
In response, Norwich surged forward with Surman - brought into the starting
XI to replace the injured Anthony Pilkington - curling a dangerous effort
just wide of Jussi Jaaskelainen's right-hand post. When Hammers centre-back
James Collins then dived in recklessly on the same player on the edge of the
box, there were vociferous penalty appeals. However, referee Chris Foy - who
had already turned down one Canaries claim when Robert Snodgrass fell under
the challenge of West Ham captain Nolan - was adamant the foul was outside
the area. He awarded a free-kick and cautioned Collins, Norwich failing to
profit from the dead ball. Norwich continued to have the better of the game
in the second half, Simeon Jackson cracking a fierce 25-yard drive at
Jaaskelainen that the Finn could only palm over the bar. The Canaries
restricted West Ham to a series of corners and long-range efforts, with
substitute Matt Jarvis blazing over from distance, and they could, and
possibly should, have snatched a win at the end. On-loan Tottenham teenager
Harry Kane advanced on the West Ham goal having been played through by
Snodgrass, only to shoot tamely. Moments later Kane beat Guy Demel and tried
to return the favour by cutting the ball back to Snodgrass, but the Scotland
international's effort was blocked. A header from Steve Morison straight at
Jaaskelainen was the last action of the fixture, as Norwich recorded their
first 0-0 draw in the league since January and only their second clean sheet
in 18 games.
Norwich manager Chris Hughton: "We will look at the positives as it's a
clean sheet against a strong powerful West Ham side who will trouble a lot
of teams this season. "But we had better chances and, as long as we can
continue to play with that tempo and attitude, it will come. I'm
disappointed as I felt we could have won.
"It's about quality and a little bit of fortune. We got into some very good
positions and that final decision or pass could have been a little better.
"If we weren't creating chances I would be worried. Harry Kane will learn a
lot from this experience. I think he will be a super player."
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce: "For a goalless draw it was particularly
exciting considering the amount of chances there were. In the end, neither
of us had the quality to put the ball in the net. "From our point of view it
is a well-earned point. "It is our first point away from home this season
and another clean sheet is very satisfying. That's three clean sheets from
four since our return to the Premier League and that is a basis to build
from."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich City 0 West Ham Utd 0
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 15th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham grabbed their first point on the road of the current campaign with
a third clean sheet from four Premier League outings this season.
A backs-to-the-wall second half performance was the backbone of today's
goalless draw at Carrow Road, in which Sam Allardyce's side were more than a
match for their opponents in the opening 45 minutes but distinctly second
best after the break.
And but for recent signing Jussi Jaaskelainen, who made several important
stops - none more so than deep into injury time when he denied substitute
Harry Kane - West Ham could have been returning to London empty handed.
Although they struggled to get into their rhythm in the second half, the
Hammers were full of enterprise and creativity before the break. Whilst
Norwich perhaps had the slight edge, West Ham could have scored at least
twice.
United's best chances came firstly on 13 minutes, when Ricardo Vaz Te forced
a good save out of John Ruddy after some good work on the right flank and
Carlton Cole's resulting header, from the loose ball, was cleared off the
line.
And just six minutes later Kevin Nolan, fed by left back Joey O'Brien who
had worked his way around three Norwich players saw his shot from just six
yards well saved by Ruddy.
There was also plenty of action at the other end - with the most notable
incident occurring just ahead of the half time whistle. A desperate lunge by
James Collins, as he challenged Andrew Surman on the edge of the box, looked
to be a penalty as the advancing Norwich player hit the ground inside the
area.
But as TV replays confirmed, referee Chris Foy called it absolutely right
when he awarded a free kick, with the point of contact being inches outside
the box.
That was the third time Norwich had asked for a spot kick following appeals
in the first and 17th minutes - the first for hand ball and the second for a
foul. As on the third occasion, Foy was correct to deny Norwich those
either.
With Ricardo Vaz Te firing blanks from the right wing, there was very little
suplpy for Carlton Cole or his replacement Modibo Maiga to work with after
the break - although Matt Jarvis, a 57th minute replacement for Matt Taylor
at least offered one or two glimpses as to why West Ham considered
£10.75million a worthy investment.
West Ham were restricted to a handful of half chances in the second half
with Momo Diame, Vaz Te and Jarvis and all having pop shots. Meanwhile
Norwich worked Jaaskelainen in the West Ham goal on several occasions and
none more notable than when he tipped Jackson's goalbound effort over the
bar just six minutes after the restart.
The flying Finn was also on hand to deny Kane in the final minute of added
on time when City threatened to snatch all three points as they countered a
West Ham free kick. Kane, released on the left attempted to slip the ball
under Jaaskelainen but the former Bolton man was alert enough to dny the
Tottenham loanee.
The point leaves West Ham with seven from a maximum twelve in their first
four games which is a fine return. Some will point to the fact that West Ham
are yet to face any of the division's top sides but as the old adage goes,
you can only beat what's in front of you.
With West Ham having done that on both occasions at the Boleyn, today's
useful point gives Sam Allardyce's side the perfect platform for when
Sunderland visit Upton Park next weekend.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calling it right
Officials got it spot on, says Sky Sports pundit
Last Updated: September 15, 2012 3:32pm
SSN
Dean Ashton paid tribute to referee Chris Foy for correctly turning down two
Norwich penalty appeals against West Ham. "The second one was inches away
from the line and he made a great call. He can feel pleased with himself
that he's had a good game." The home players twice called for a spot kick
during the first half of Saturday's clash, which ended goalless, firstly
when Robert Snodgrass went down under a challenge by Kevin Nolan and then
when Andrew Surman was tripped by James Collins. The referee waved away the
first penalty claim and awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area
following the second incident. And Sky Sports expert Ashton said Foy
deserves credit for getting the key calls correct. He told Football Special:
"We get the luxury of getting to see it time and time again and slowing it
right down - and he doesn't - but I think he got both penalty incidents
right. "James Collins will look back and think he shouldn't challenge as he
has behind Grant Holt, but when you slow it right down you can see that
Surman's foot was still just outside the box as he planted it. "The
referee's got to make a split-second decision and go with what he thinks is
right. I'm sure he'll want to take the plaudits. "Fans always think they
should have penalties when perhaps they shouldn't, but I think any honest
fan would look at that and say it was just outside. "It is millimetres, but
you could see a little bit of grass between his foot and the white line.
It's such a big call for the referee and I'm sure he'll look back and be
glad he got it right. "On first thoughts I felt the first incident was a
penalty, but looking back on it you could see that Kevin Nolan just pulled
out at the last minute and didn't make contact. "Good referees get
themselves in good positions and he made a great decision there as well."
Speed
Ashton, who played for both Norwich and West Ham during his career, feels
it's tough for referees to keep up with the pace of the modern game. And he
says the officials should receive praise when they get the big decisions
correct. He added: "We slate referees enough and I think we should praise
them when they get decisions right. "He got two big decisions in West Ham's
favour and he got them right. I think we should praise him for that because
it's very difficult being a referee with the speed of the game. "The second
one was inches away from the line and he made a great call. He can feel
pleased with himself that he's had a good game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam hails big decision
West Ham boss delighted with referee Chris Foy
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
September 15, 2012 5:43pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was pleased with referee Chris Foy for
getting right a 'make-or-break' decision. The game at Carrow Road finished
goalless and was always a tight affair but just before the break the home
side appealed for a penalty when James Collins fouled Andrew Surman on the
edge of the box and the home fans were insistent a spot-kick should have
been given. However, replays showed Foy correctly ruled the challenge was
just outside the area. Allardyce was thankful that Foy got it right, and
when asked if the referee deserved credit, he told Sky Sports: "No doubt
about that. Those decisions can make or break you. "Chris has made a correct
decision today and by the looks of it, where the player finished, he could
easily have thought that was in the box. "Luckily for us it was a major
decision the referee got right and I'm really pleased about that."
Happy
Allardyce was happy with a 'hard earned point' and his team's third clean
sheet in four Premier League games since their promotion but felt his side
could have taken something from the match. "I think we should have scored in
the first stage of the game, that is when we were at our best but the
chances came and went," he continued. "Then as I expected Norwich came back
into the game as they did and in the end, it is away from home and a hard
earned point and another clean sheet, three clean sheets in four games is an
excellent record to start back in the Barclays Premier League when you have
just been promoted. "It was an entertaining game, it was not as if both
teams sat back, we both went attacking and there were chances at both ends.
"Overall I am pleased as we picked up a point away from home, clean sheet
and we move on. "We enjoyed coming here and playing and we have got a result
and now move onto Sunderland where we look for three points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Canaries yet to take flight
West Ham take point from Carrow Road
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
September 15, 2012 3:57pm
SSN
Norwich City are still without a win in the Premier League after being held
to a goalless draw at home to West Ham United.
MATCH FACTS
Man of the Match : Robert Snodgrass - Comfortable on the ball, passed well
and always willing to get in the opposition box.
Moment of the Match : Late in the game young Norwich sub Harry Kane broke
free and could have won the game but needed more composure to put the ball
away
Attempt of the Match : A terrific passage of play saw Snodgrass have a low
parried before he and Holt had efforts blocked by a Wes ham defence who
threw their bodies in the way of everything
Save of the Match : Jussi Jaaskelainen made a superb tip-over save to deny
Simeon Jackson
Talking point : Norwich are still without a win this season, how worrying is
that?
On a day of few chances in Norfolk, the best actually came in the final
minutes when substitute Harry Kane was handed the chance for a dream debut.
But the on-loan Tottenham man fired straight at Jussi Jaaskelainen in the
West Ham goal who, like his counterpart John Ruddy, was almost a spectator
for most of the match - although he did make one excellent stop from Simeon
Jackson in the second half. Chris Hughton's men enjoyed the better of the
first half, and felt they should
have been awarded a penalty when James Collins upended Andrew Surman, but
referee Chris Foy correctly ruled the challenge was just outside the area.
West Ham also had their chances, with Carlton Cole's early chance blocked
and Ruddy saving from Kevin Nolan. Both sides, though, seemed to run out of
ideas as the match wore on - and it was Kane's chance which proved the best.
Early chance
There was an early opportunity for West Ham in the Norfolk sunshine when a
corner was only half-cleared and the ball flashed back across the Norwich
goal by Matt Taylor. At the other end, Surman, in for the injured Anthony
Pilkington, cut inside the West Ham box after a quick break down the left
and curled the ball just wide of the far post. Surman continued to press the
Irons back, with Guy Demel making a superb tackle to halt his charge into
the penalty area. However, on 13 minutes, it was West Ham who made the first
clear opening when Ricardo Vaz Te got away down the right and his cross was
headed goalwards by Cole, but Russell Martin knocked it off the line, with
Taylor lashing the loose rebound wide. Norwich felt they should have been
awarded a penalty when Robert Snodgrass weaved in from the right and was
blocked by Nolan as he cut back inside - but, in a sign of things to come,
referee Foy was having none of it. The Irons skipper then almost put his
side ahead when he got on the end of Joey O'Brien's cross after the
full-back's strong run down the Norwich left, but England keeper Ruddy made
a smart reaction save.
Norwich capitalised on some poor defending as Snodgrass dashed onto a loose
ball down the right, but his cutback towards Jackson in the six-yard box was
hacked behind by Collins. West Ham then produced a series of blocks and
saves by Jaaskelainen from the resulting corner to turn away successive
efforts from Snodgrass, Sebastien Bassong, Grant Holt and Surman. On 33
minutes, the home side went close again as Holt scuffed wide following a
knockdown from Snodgrass. Foy again incurred the wrath of the home crowd
four minutes before half-time.
Big decision
Surman was upended by Collins as he darted into the penalty box, but the
Merseyside official correctly ruled the clumsy challenge had taken place
just inches outside the line. Johnson crashed the free-kick into the wall,
before full-back Javier Garrido lashed the rebound wide. Norwich started the
second half brightly, with Jackson's 25-yard effort tipped over by
Jaaskelainen, who almost joined the Canaries before signing at Bolton.
Snodgrass was just off target with a low effort, and Johnson shot straight
at the keeper before West Ham made a double change on 57 minutes when Jarvis
and Modibo Maiga replaced Taylor and Cole. Norwich again tested Jaaskelainen
when Leon Barnett nodded a deep cross back into the six-yard box and
Bassong's looping header was picked out of the air. As the hour passed,
Canaries manager Hughton sent on Steve Morison for Jackson. The former
Millwall frontman tried his luck with a 20-yard effort after a smart
knockdown on his chest, but the shot looped over. England Under 21 forward
Kane replaced the ineffective Holt for the final 19 minutes. As the match
opened up again, Jarvis, signed from Wolves, saw his shot blocked after a
quick break into the Norwich half following a poor throw-in. Kane created
space for a shot on the edge of the area, but his effort was wide of the
mark. Then in stoppage time, the 19-year-old was played in on the overlap
after a quick break, but scuffed a tame effort straight at the keeper.
And there was still time for Kane to produce another chance, as he squared
the ball back for Snodgrass - but the Scot saw his goal-bound effort
deflected wide
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich 0 West Ham 0
The Sun
By PAUL JIGGINS
Published: 15th September 2012
IT'S a good job Grant Holt signed a new contract in the summer — because he
is not earning any goal bonuses at the moment. The Norwich striker, who
scored 17 goals last season, is still waiting to get off the mark this time
around. And yesterday he looked a shadow of the frontman who bulldozed and
bamboozled Premier League defences last term. His lacklustre display against
the Hammers showed that England boss Roy Hodgson was right to ignore the
clamour to include Holt in his squad for Euro 2012. It also suggested that
maybe the Canaries were a bit hasty in buckling to their captain's demands
for a fat, new three-year deal in the close season. Boss Chris Hughton
denied that Holt's sluggish start to the season has anything to do with the
player enjoying life in the comfort zone after safeguarding his future. But
how else do you explain his disappointing display? In a game of plenty of
chances, Holt managed to register just one shot on target. Worse still, he
seemed sorely off the pace. But Hughton, who only took over at Carrow Road
in the summer, insisted: "I can only speak as I find and he has been very
focused in games and in training. I have not seen any lack of hunger "I have
seen the same desire in him that he's always shown."
You have to respect Hughton for backing his captain, but his comments will
not fool anybody watching this clash — especially the home fans who booed
when Simeon Jackson was subbed instead of Holt in the 64th minute. Nobody
was surprised when Holt was taken off seven minutes later. Hughton added:
"I'm sure that if somebody of Grant's quality keeps getting into the right
positions and we keep creating chances for him it won't be long before he
scores. "He will work even harder to make it right." Norwich created
numerous scoring opportunities. The Holt of last season would have gobbled
at least one up. As it is, Hughton's men had to settle for their third draw
in four matches, which is fine if your opposition included top-six teams but
worrying given they featured games against Fulham, QPR and West Ham.
Especially as Norwich's next four are Newcastle, Liverpool, Chelsea and
Arsenal. That means if results go to form, the Canaries could still be on
three points by the time we reach mid-October. Now Hughton is a widely
respected and popular coach, but if things do not improve, his hopes of
making Christmas will be as bleak as a Bernard Matthews turkey. But he said:
"I'd be sitting here a lot more concerned if we were not creating chances.
We need more guile and quality along with a bit more good fortune." But for
some poor finishing and superb keeping by Jussi Jaaskelainen, his team would
have won. His best effort was a double stop to deny Holt and Russell Martin
in a frantic goalmouth scramble. Norwich had two penalty claims turned away
by referee Chris Hoy — both right calls.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce agreed and said: "Major decisions have got to
be right. "It's a clean sheet and a very valuable point away from home and
I'm satisfied with that."
Norwich: Ruddy, Russell Martin, Barnett, Bassong, Garrido, Snodgrass,
Howson, Johnson, Surman, Holt (Kane 71), Jackson (Morison 63). Subs not
used: Rudd, Turner, Hoolahan, Fox, Tierney.
West Ham: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid, Collins, O'Brien, Diame, Noble, Vaz Te
(Benayoun 86), Nolan, Taylor (Jarvis 57), Cole (Maiga 57). Subs not used:
Henderson, McCartney, Tomkins, Diarra. Booked: Collins.
Att: 26,806
Ref: Chris Foy (Merseyside).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ref was spot on with penalty call, admits Norwich boss Hughton
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 19:25, 15 September 2012 | UPDATED: 19:25, 15 September 2012
Daily Mail
Chris Hughton could not fault the efforts of his Norwich players despite the
frustration of a goalless draw against West Ham which left them still
without a Barclays Premier League win. The Canaries enjoyed the better of
the first half and felt they should have been awarded a penalty when James
Collins upended Andrew Surman, but referee Chris Foy correctly ruled the
challenge was just outside the area. Jussi Jaaskelainen denied Simeon
Jackson with a fine save just after the restart, but both sides ran out of
ideas. On-loan Tottenham youngster Harry Kane could have won it for the
hosts in stoppage time, only to scuff his shot straight at Jaaskelainen.
'There is a bit of frustration because we have had three games where we
cannot fault the performance or the chances we have created,' said Hughton,
who took over from Paul Lambert after he left for Aston Villa in the summer.
'We coped with West Ham very well, but when we have our opportunities, we
have to be showing a bit more quality and guile, perhaps also a bit of
fortune in that final third. 'I felt we did enough today and on the balance
of play had enough to win the game. 'There can be a disappointment we have
not got the goals to win the game, but no-one can question the endeavour of
the players.'
The Norwich manager accepts Hoy's decision was spot on, but that perhaps the
hosts were out of luck. He said: 'The one on the line was very close. In
another game, with another referee, then that is given. 'I think the referee
got his calls right.' Norwich captain Grant Holt failed to test the West Ham
defence, scuffing wide his best chance in the first half when the ball fell
to him in the penalty area. Hughton maintains the 31-year-old has lost none
of his hunger, having agreed a new deal after handing in a shock transfer
request at the end of the season which saw him become a summer target for
West Ham. 'I have seen the same desire in him that he has always shown
here,' said Hughton. 'The fact he has not scored will be a disappointment
for him, because he is a striker, and will work even harder to make it
right.
'What we want from every player is to be showing their best. 'Strikers want
to score and that is what Grant has done here over the past few seasons. 'I
am sure that will be the case again.' Hughton added: 'He has been very
focused on the games and in training, and I am quite sure with somebody of
Grant's qualities, if he keeps getting in the right positions and we can
keep creating chances, then it wont be long until he scores.' West Ham also
had their chances, especially early on when Carlton Cole's effort was
blocked and John Ruddy saved from Kevin Nolan. Substitute Matt Jarvis, a
£7million signing from Wolves, also saw a late effort deflected wide.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said: 'It could have been anybody's game with
the way it went and the chances created, which no-one took. 'In the end, we
got the clean sheet and a very valuable point away from home. 'We have to be
satisfied with that because our finishing was not as good as it should have
been, nor was our final ball. 'We defended well, so it was a good point and
clean sheets now in three games out of four is a great basis to build any
team on.' Allardyce praised Merseyside referee Foy for what could easily
have been a game-changing call. 'It is a good decision by Chris Foy,' he
said. 'I have looked at the replay and he has got it right by inches. He
could so easily have been persuaded to give the penalty by where the player
finished in the box. 'Major decisions have to be given correctly by the
referee, and in this case, it was.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce accepted the draw and clean sheet West Ham United collected at
Norwich City on Saturday
15.09.2012
Sam Allardyce was left harbouring mixed emotions following West Ham United's
goalless Barclays Premier League draw at Norwich City. Big Sam was happy to
see his side achieve a third clean sheet in four league matches - four in
five in all competitions - this season, but lamented the lack of a clinical
cross or finish in the final-third that denied his team victory. Speaking to
West Ham TV, the manager saw his team start well at Carrow Road, only for
Kevin Nolan, Carlton Cole and Ricardo Vaz Te all to be denied an opening
goal. Norwich came back strongly, with one goalmouth melee seeing Jussi
Jaaskelainen make two fine saves before the break.
Into the second half and the end-to-end nature of the game continued as
Jaaskelainen thwarted Simeon Jackson and Robert Snodgrass, while substitute
Matt Jarvis saw one shot deflected narrowly wide and a succession of crosses
come agonisingly close to producing an opening. "It was unbelievable that it
finished goalless for both sides, really," said Big Sam. "In the early
stages were the dominant side in terms of chances created and the
disappointing thing for us was not getting our noses in front at that
particular stage in the first ten or 15 minutes. "I didn't expect us to miss
those chances, to be honest, with the way we were finishing against Fulham.
The chances that fell to us on Saturday were easier than the ones we scored
against Fulham. "Norwich came back into the game and we needed some
desperate defending at times to keep our clean sheet and keep them out. We
then got back in the game again but couldn't get the final ball right to
create more chances until Matt Jarvis came on. "Matt had a chance on the
edge of the boxes and put two great crosses in that we could have done
better with. The only disappointing thing was the fact Ricardo Vaz Te, Matt
Taylor, Joey O'Brien and Guy Demel didn't produce the sort of ball in the
final-third to punish Norwich. "Particularly going into the last
half-an-hour when they had lost their rhythm and shape, we were playing on
the break and exposing the space they were leaving. We were getting to the
final-third with no challenge from the opposition but fluffing the final
ball, be it the cross or the shot. That was the only frustrating thing for
me in the second half."
With Jaaskelainen and man of the match Winston Reid outstanding, West Ham
kept a third clean sheet in four Premier League matches played. That record
has seen the Hammers collect seven points from 12 and lose just once - an
error-strewn defeat at Swansea City. Big Sam believes that defensive
resilience will aid West Ham's hopes of enjoying a productive first season
back in the top-flight, labelling clean sheets the 'platform' on which
victories and valuable draws will be achieved. "Looking at the overall game,
I think it was a well-earned point because it could have gone either way
when you look at the 90 minutes. So, in saying that, a point away from when
you're just starting back in the Barclays Premier League is more than
acceptable. We started with a clean sheet and ended up with it and you have
to build a platform to be a successful side. Resilience is very important in
this league and we showed some really good resilience and determined
defending and showed some quality football apart from the final pass, cross
or shot. "The platform to build any successful side on is to concede fewer
goals than anyone else and if you do that then one goal wins you three
points. Generally, if you know you have a solid defence then you will end up
winning games two or three-nil because you are so confident about your
defending that the opposition open themselves up to try to break you down
and you punish them even more. "It builds the confidence of everybody to
know we're a solid unit and we're not going to have to score two or three
goals every time we play to win a game."
Norwich had started the second half in the ascendancy, but the Hammers were
able to turn the tide following the introduction of Jarvis and Modibo Maiga
just before the hour-mark. Jarvis helped lift the pressure with his running,
dribbling ability and pace, while Maiga offered a willing figure to trouble
the Canaries' centre-backs.
With Yossi Benayoun also appearing late on, Alou Diarra, James Tomkins and
George McCartney also on the bench and Andy Carroll and Jack Collison close
to returning from injury, the manager believes the strength in depth in his
squad can only be of benefit going forward. "I couldn't include Gary O'Neil
on my bench today - that's how strong my squad has got. He was very
disappointed that he didn't get his place on a seven-man bench but that
shows the depth and the talent in the squad now. Gary will get his chance at
some stage, I am sure about that. "Andy Carroll and Jack Collison are also
back at the training ground getting treatment, so there are another two
players. We have a 22-man squad with talent. The talent came on today and
tried to help us go up to that next level and win when the talent that was
already on the field was a little bit tired. "That's a massive thing to be
having on your substitutes' bench because if you haven't got it, then you're
bringing on a fresher player but reducing the talent. I don't think we're
doing that. We have players who can come on and make a difference from the
bench."
Finally, one player who has excelled so far this season - as he did last
term - is defender Reid. Despite travelling halfway around the world
following his midweek international duty with New Zealand, the 24-year-old
showed no signs of weariness to produce a truly outstanding performance. Big
Sam hailed the Kiwi's display, pointing to the development he has made as a
player over the past 12 months. "I don't want Reidy to get too big for his
boots but I think his growth in our team has been superb. When we had that
bad run of draws last season it's because he wasn't there. He was missing
because he got concussion playing in a friendly for New Zealand. "He missed
all those games and we conceded in most of those games. Winston Reid came
back and we went on to win, particularly at home, our games going into the
Play-Offs because he was there. "He has now carried that form into the
Premier League and shown that his all-round defending is exceptionally good
and I'm really pleased for him. His learning curve in one year has been
massive and he's looking excellent."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCallum making up for lost time
WHUFC.com
Paul McCallum has put an frustrating season behind him by starting the
season in fine form
15.09.2012
Paul McCallum is looking to continue his superb start to the 2012/13 season
when the Development Squad head to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. The
19-year-old striker has bagged three goals in three Barclays Under-21
Premier League fixtures so far this term, helping to fire the Hammers to
comprehensive victories over Reading and Everton. For the former Dulwich
Hamlet forward, it has been a case of making up for lost time after he
missed the majority of last season after suffering a fractured tibia. With
his first professional contract expiring at the end of the present campaign,
McCallum has every incentive to maintain his form. "I'm happy about scoring
three goals in three games individually, but collectively I'm really happy
for the team because they've been brilliant as well," said McCallum. "We
made a couple of changes and lost to Bolton in our third game, but we've got
to move on to The Hawthorns on Sunday and hopefully we can get another win.
"Last year, I was injured for the majority of the season, so I've had
determination to get back into the squad and do well. It was very important
that I had a good year last year, but I couldn't because of my shin. It's
made me even more determined to prove this year that I am good enough to be
here. "Playing at big stadia like The Hawthorns is a great experience.
Whereas before I was playing in front of a few people, we're playing in
front of big crowds and it feels good."
McCallum is part of a group of players who work with Development Squad coach
Ian Hendon on a daily basis. The teenager believes that the understanding
and team spirit among the club's younger players has been key to their
encouraging start. "I think it's good that we've been put into a reserve
league because last year we didn't have a proper league and were playing
friendlies here and there. This year we have a proper team and everybody
knows their job and straight away it has felt right. "Having Rob Hall
playing behind me has also given me a lot of confidence as well because I
know he is always going to be there when I bring the ball down."
As he continues to work on his own game and hones his skills as a targetman,
McCallum said he is looking forward to working with England international
Andy Carroll on the training pitch. "Andy Carroll has the aerial game that I
am good at and I need to show the gaffer that I can do it as well as the
other players and get into the first-team squad. "When I signed, we were in
the Premier League so that gave me a big boost in confidence, but last year
my confidence went right down. I've got three goals in three games now and
my confidence is high and I want to keep on scoring."
Looking further forward, the striker was named on the substitutes' bench for
the Capital One Cup second-round win over Crewe Alexandra. He is hoping for
a repeat when the Hammers host Wigan Athletic in the third round on Tuesday
25 September. "Against Crewe I was disappointed that I didn't get on, but on
the other hand I was very happy that I was on the bench. Against Wigan,
hopefully if I can get a few goals against West Brom on Sunday, then who
knows?" Sunday's match will be at The Hawthorns, with kick-off at 2pm.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich 0 West Ham 0
By Jimmy Smallwood
BBC Sport
Norwich are still searching for their first win of the season after a
goalless draw with West Ham. The hosts had appeals for a first-half penalty
rejected, with the referee correctly adjudging Andrew Surman to have been
fouled just outside the area. West Ham crafted several openings too, with
Canaries keeper John Ruddy forced into a number of point-blank saves. There
were enough chances today for this to finish 2-2. Norwich loanee Harry Kane
had two really good chances after coming off the bench, but couldn't find
the breakthrough goal. It's all a bit frustrating for the Canaries, and West
Ham will be the happier of the two teams with the outcome. But neither side
could break the deadlock, leaving Norwich winless and West Ham frustrated on
their travels. The visitors were having to manage without loan signing Andy
Carroll, a hamstring strain ruling the forward out of the Carrow Road
contest. Carlton Cole deputised in attack for the Hammers, who started the
stronger in an open, fluid game. The Canaries' England international
goalkeeper Ruddy was forced into a series of impressive close-range saves,
denying Ricardo Vaz Te, Cole and Kevin Nolan in the space of eight
first-half minutes.
In response, Norwich surged forward with Surman - brought into the starting
XI to replace the injured Anthony Pilkington - curling a dangerous effort
just wide of Jussi Jaaskelainen's right-hand post. When Hammers centre-back
James Collins then dived in recklessly on the same player on the edge of the
box, there were vociferous penalty appeals. However, referee Chris Foy - who
had already turned down one Canaries claim when Robert Snodgrass fell under
the challenge of West Ham captain Nolan - was adamant the foul was outside
the area. He awarded a free-kick and cautioned Collins, Norwich failing to
profit from the dead ball. Norwich continued to have the better of the game
in the second half, Simeon Jackson cracking a fierce 25-yard drive at
Jaaskelainen that the Finn could only palm over the bar. The Canaries
restricted West Ham to a series of corners and long-range efforts, with
substitute Matt Jarvis blazing over from distance, and they could, and
possibly should, have snatched a win at the end. On-loan Tottenham teenager
Harry Kane advanced on the West Ham goal having been played through by
Snodgrass, only to shoot tamely. Moments later Kane beat Guy Demel and tried
to return the favour by cutting the ball back to Snodgrass, but the Scotland
international's effort was blocked. A header from Steve Morison straight at
Jaaskelainen was the last action of the fixture, as Norwich recorded their
first 0-0 draw in the league since January and only their second clean sheet
in 18 games.
Norwich manager Chris Hughton: "We will look at the positives as it's a
clean sheet against a strong powerful West Ham side who will trouble a lot
of teams this season. "But we had better chances and, as long as we can
continue to play with that tempo and attitude, it will come. I'm
disappointed as I felt we could have won.
"It's about quality and a little bit of fortune. We got into some very good
positions and that final decision or pass could have been a little better.
"If we weren't creating chances I would be worried. Harry Kane will learn a
lot from this experience. I think he will be a super player."
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce: "For a goalless draw it was particularly
exciting considering the amount of chances there were. In the end, neither
of us had the quality to put the ball in the net. "From our point of view it
is a well-earned point. "It is our first point away from home this season
and another clean sheet is very satisfying. That's three clean sheets from
four since our return to the Premier League and that is a basis to build
from."
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich City 0 West Ham Utd 0
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 15th September 2012
By: Staff Writer
West Ham grabbed their first point on the road of the current campaign with
a third clean sheet from four Premier League outings this season.
A backs-to-the-wall second half performance was the backbone of today's
goalless draw at Carrow Road, in which Sam Allardyce's side were more than a
match for their opponents in the opening 45 minutes but distinctly second
best after the break.
And but for recent signing Jussi Jaaskelainen, who made several important
stops - none more so than deep into injury time when he denied substitute
Harry Kane - West Ham could have been returning to London empty handed.
Although they struggled to get into their rhythm in the second half, the
Hammers were full of enterprise and creativity before the break. Whilst
Norwich perhaps had the slight edge, West Ham could have scored at least
twice.
United's best chances came firstly on 13 minutes, when Ricardo Vaz Te forced
a good save out of John Ruddy after some good work on the right flank and
Carlton Cole's resulting header, from the loose ball, was cleared off the
line.
And just six minutes later Kevin Nolan, fed by left back Joey O'Brien who
had worked his way around three Norwich players saw his shot from just six
yards well saved by Ruddy.
There was also plenty of action at the other end - with the most notable
incident occurring just ahead of the half time whistle. A desperate lunge by
James Collins, as he challenged Andrew Surman on the edge of the box, looked
to be a penalty as the advancing Norwich player hit the ground inside the
area.
But as TV replays confirmed, referee Chris Foy called it absolutely right
when he awarded a free kick, with the point of contact being inches outside
the box.
That was the third time Norwich had asked for a spot kick following appeals
in the first and 17th minutes - the first for hand ball and the second for a
foul. As on the third occasion, Foy was correct to deny Norwich those
either.
With Ricardo Vaz Te firing blanks from the right wing, there was very little
suplpy for Carlton Cole or his replacement Modibo Maiga to work with after
the break - although Matt Jarvis, a 57th minute replacement for Matt Taylor
at least offered one or two glimpses as to why West Ham considered
£10.75million a worthy investment.
West Ham were restricted to a handful of half chances in the second half
with Momo Diame, Vaz Te and Jarvis and all having pop shots. Meanwhile
Norwich worked Jaaskelainen in the West Ham goal on several occasions and
none more notable than when he tipped Jackson's goalbound effort over the
bar just six minutes after the restart.
The flying Finn was also on hand to deny Kane in the final minute of added
on time when City threatened to snatch all three points as they countered a
West Ham free kick. Kane, released on the left attempted to slip the ball
under Jaaskelainen but the former Bolton man was alert enough to dny the
Tottenham loanee.
The point leaves West Ham with seven from a maximum twelve in their first
four games which is a fine return. Some will point to the fact that West Ham
are yet to face any of the division's top sides but as the old adage goes,
you can only beat what's in front of you.
With West Ham having done that on both occasions at the Boleyn, today's
useful point gives Sam Allardyce's side the perfect platform for when
Sunderland visit Upton Park next weekend.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Calling it right
Officials got it spot on, says Sky Sports pundit
Last Updated: September 15, 2012 3:32pm
SSN
Dean Ashton paid tribute to referee Chris Foy for correctly turning down two
Norwich penalty appeals against West Ham. "The second one was inches away
from the line and he made a great call. He can feel pleased with himself
that he's had a good game." The home players twice called for a spot kick
during the first half of Saturday's clash, which ended goalless, firstly
when Robert Snodgrass went down under a challenge by Kevin Nolan and then
when Andrew Surman was tripped by James Collins. The referee waved away the
first penalty claim and awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area
following the second incident. And Sky Sports expert Ashton said Foy
deserves credit for getting the key calls correct. He told Football Special:
"We get the luxury of getting to see it time and time again and slowing it
right down - and he doesn't - but I think he got both penalty incidents
right. "James Collins will look back and think he shouldn't challenge as he
has behind Grant Holt, but when you slow it right down you can see that
Surman's foot was still just outside the box as he planted it. "The
referee's got to make a split-second decision and go with what he thinks is
right. I'm sure he'll want to take the plaudits. "Fans always think they
should have penalties when perhaps they shouldn't, but I think any honest
fan would look at that and say it was just outside. "It is millimetres, but
you could see a little bit of grass between his foot and the white line.
It's such a big call for the referee and I'm sure he'll look back and be
glad he got it right. "On first thoughts I felt the first incident was a
penalty, but looking back on it you could see that Kevin Nolan just pulled
out at the last minute and didn't make contact. "Good referees get
themselves in good positions and he made a great decision there as well."
Speed
Ashton, who played for both Norwich and West Ham during his career, feels
it's tough for referees to keep up with the pace of the modern game. And he
says the officials should receive praise when they get the big decisions
correct. He added: "We slate referees enough and I think we should praise
them when they get decisions right. "He got two big decisions in West Ham's
favour and he got them right. I think we should praise him for that because
it's very difficult being a referee with the speed of the game. "The second
one was inches away from the line and he made a great call. He can feel
pleased with himself that he's had a good game."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam hails big decision
West Ham boss delighted with referee Chris Foy
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
September 15, 2012 5:43pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce was pleased with referee Chris Foy for
getting right a 'make-or-break' decision. The game at Carrow Road finished
goalless and was always a tight affair but just before the break the home
side appealed for a penalty when James Collins fouled Andrew Surman on the
edge of the box and the home fans were insistent a spot-kick should have
been given. However, replays showed Foy correctly ruled the challenge was
just outside the area. Allardyce was thankful that Foy got it right, and
when asked if the referee deserved credit, he told Sky Sports: "No doubt
about that. Those decisions can make or break you. "Chris has made a correct
decision today and by the looks of it, where the player finished, he could
easily have thought that was in the box. "Luckily for us it was a major
decision the referee got right and I'm really pleased about that."
Happy
Allardyce was happy with a 'hard earned point' and his team's third clean
sheet in four Premier League games since their promotion but felt his side
could have taken something from the match. "I think we should have scored in
the first stage of the game, that is when we were at our best but the
chances came and went," he continued. "Then as I expected Norwich came back
into the game as they did and in the end, it is away from home and a hard
earned point and another clean sheet, three clean sheets in four games is an
excellent record to start back in the Barclays Premier League when you have
just been promoted. "It was an entertaining game, it was not as if both
teams sat back, we both went attacking and there were chances at both ends.
"Overall I am pleased as we picked up a point away from home, clean sheet
and we move on. "We enjoyed coming here and playing and we have got a result
and now move onto Sunderland where we look for three points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Canaries yet to take flight
West Ham take point from Carrow Road
By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: @skygraemebailey. Last Updated:
September 15, 2012 3:57pm
SSN
Norwich City are still without a win in the Premier League after being held
to a goalless draw at home to West Ham United.
MATCH FACTS
Man of the Match : Robert Snodgrass - Comfortable on the ball, passed well
and always willing to get in the opposition box.
Moment of the Match : Late in the game young Norwich sub Harry Kane broke
free and could have won the game but needed more composure to put the ball
away
Attempt of the Match : A terrific passage of play saw Snodgrass have a low
parried before he and Holt had efforts blocked by a Wes ham defence who
threw their bodies in the way of everything
Save of the Match : Jussi Jaaskelainen made a superb tip-over save to deny
Simeon Jackson
Talking point : Norwich are still without a win this season, how worrying is
that?
On a day of few chances in Norfolk, the best actually came in the final
minutes when substitute Harry Kane was handed the chance for a dream debut.
But the on-loan Tottenham man fired straight at Jussi Jaaskelainen in the
West Ham goal who, like his counterpart John Ruddy, was almost a spectator
for most of the match - although he did make one excellent stop from Simeon
Jackson in the second half. Chris Hughton's men enjoyed the better of the
first half, and felt they should
have been awarded a penalty when James Collins upended Andrew Surman, but
referee Chris Foy correctly ruled the challenge was just outside the area.
West Ham also had their chances, with Carlton Cole's early chance blocked
and Ruddy saving from Kevin Nolan. Both sides, though, seemed to run out of
ideas as the match wore on - and it was Kane's chance which proved the best.
Early chance
There was an early opportunity for West Ham in the Norfolk sunshine when a
corner was only half-cleared and the ball flashed back across the Norwich
goal by Matt Taylor. At the other end, Surman, in for the injured Anthony
Pilkington, cut inside the West Ham box after a quick break down the left
and curled the ball just wide of the far post. Surman continued to press the
Irons back, with Guy Demel making a superb tackle to halt his charge into
the penalty area. However, on 13 minutes, it was West Ham who made the first
clear opening when Ricardo Vaz Te got away down the right and his cross was
headed goalwards by Cole, but Russell Martin knocked it off the line, with
Taylor lashing the loose rebound wide. Norwich felt they should have been
awarded a penalty when Robert Snodgrass weaved in from the right and was
blocked by Nolan as he cut back inside - but, in a sign of things to come,
referee Foy was having none of it. The Irons skipper then almost put his
side ahead when he got on the end of Joey O'Brien's cross after the
full-back's strong run down the Norwich left, but England keeper Ruddy made
a smart reaction save.
Norwich capitalised on some poor defending as Snodgrass dashed onto a loose
ball down the right, but his cutback towards Jackson in the six-yard box was
hacked behind by Collins. West Ham then produced a series of blocks and
saves by Jaaskelainen from the resulting corner to turn away successive
efforts from Snodgrass, Sebastien Bassong, Grant Holt and Surman. On 33
minutes, the home side went close again as Holt scuffed wide following a
knockdown from Snodgrass. Foy again incurred the wrath of the home crowd
four minutes before half-time.
Big decision
Surman was upended by Collins as he darted into the penalty box, but the
Merseyside official correctly ruled the clumsy challenge had taken place
just inches outside the line. Johnson crashed the free-kick into the wall,
before full-back Javier Garrido lashed the rebound wide. Norwich started the
second half brightly, with Jackson's 25-yard effort tipped over by
Jaaskelainen, who almost joined the Canaries before signing at Bolton.
Snodgrass was just off target with a low effort, and Johnson shot straight
at the keeper before West Ham made a double change on 57 minutes when Jarvis
and Modibo Maiga replaced Taylor and Cole. Norwich again tested Jaaskelainen
when Leon Barnett nodded a deep cross back into the six-yard box and
Bassong's looping header was picked out of the air. As the hour passed,
Canaries manager Hughton sent on Steve Morison for Jackson. The former
Millwall frontman tried his luck with a 20-yard effort after a smart
knockdown on his chest, but the shot looped over. England Under 21 forward
Kane replaced the ineffective Holt for the final 19 minutes. As the match
opened up again, Jarvis, signed from Wolves, saw his shot blocked after a
quick break into the Norwich half following a poor throw-in. Kane created
space for a shot on the edge of the area, but his effort was wide of the
mark. Then in stoppage time, the 19-year-old was played in on the overlap
after a quick break, but scuffed a tame effort straight at the keeper.
And there was still time for Kane to produce another chance, as he squared
the ball back for Snodgrass - but the Scot saw his goal-bound effort
deflected wide
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Norwich 0 West Ham 0
The Sun
By PAUL JIGGINS
Published: 15th September 2012
IT'S a good job Grant Holt signed a new contract in the summer — because he
is not earning any goal bonuses at the moment. The Norwich striker, who
scored 17 goals last season, is still waiting to get off the mark this time
around. And yesterday he looked a shadow of the frontman who bulldozed and
bamboozled Premier League defences last term. His lacklustre display against
the Hammers showed that England boss Roy Hodgson was right to ignore the
clamour to include Holt in his squad for Euro 2012. It also suggested that
maybe the Canaries were a bit hasty in buckling to their captain's demands
for a fat, new three-year deal in the close season. Boss Chris Hughton
denied that Holt's sluggish start to the season has anything to do with the
player enjoying life in the comfort zone after safeguarding his future. But
how else do you explain his disappointing display? In a game of plenty of
chances, Holt managed to register just one shot on target. Worse still, he
seemed sorely off the pace. But Hughton, who only took over at Carrow Road
in the summer, insisted: "I can only speak as I find and he has been very
focused in games and in training. I have not seen any lack of hunger "I have
seen the same desire in him that he's always shown."
You have to respect Hughton for backing his captain, but his comments will
not fool anybody watching this clash — especially the home fans who booed
when Simeon Jackson was subbed instead of Holt in the 64th minute. Nobody
was surprised when Holt was taken off seven minutes later. Hughton added:
"I'm sure that if somebody of Grant's quality keeps getting into the right
positions and we keep creating chances for him it won't be long before he
scores. "He will work even harder to make it right." Norwich created
numerous scoring opportunities. The Holt of last season would have gobbled
at least one up. As it is, Hughton's men had to settle for their third draw
in four matches, which is fine if your opposition included top-six teams but
worrying given they featured games against Fulham, QPR and West Ham.
Especially as Norwich's next four are Newcastle, Liverpool, Chelsea and
Arsenal. That means if results go to form, the Canaries could still be on
three points by the time we reach mid-October. Now Hughton is a widely
respected and popular coach, but if things do not improve, his hopes of
making Christmas will be as bleak as a Bernard Matthews turkey. But he said:
"I'd be sitting here a lot more concerned if we were not creating chances.
We need more guile and quality along with a bit more good fortune." But for
some poor finishing and superb keeping by Jussi Jaaskelainen, his team would
have won. His best effort was a double stop to deny Holt and Russell Martin
in a frantic goalmouth scramble. Norwich had two penalty claims turned away
by referee Chris Hoy — both right calls.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce agreed and said: "Major decisions have got to
be right. "It's a clean sheet and a very valuable point away from home and
I'm satisfied with that."
Norwich: Ruddy, Russell Martin, Barnett, Bassong, Garrido, Snodgrass,
Howson, Johnson, Surman, Holt (Kane 71), Jackson (Morison 63). Subs not
used: Rudd, Turner, Hoolahan, Fox, Tierney.
West Ham: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid, Collins, O'Brien, Diame, Noble, Vaz Te
(Benayoun 86), Nolan, Taylor (Jarvis 57), Cole (Maiga 57). Subs not used:
Henderson, McCartney, Tomkins, Diarra. Booked: Collins.
Att: 26,806
Ref: Chris Foy (Merseyside).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ref was spot on with penalty call, admits Norwich boss Hughton
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 19:25, 15 September 2012 | UPDATED: 19:25, 15 September 2012
Daily Mail
Chris Hughton could not fault the efforts of his Norwich players despite the
frustration of a goalless draw against West Ham which left them still
without a Barclays Premier League win. The Canaries enjoyed the better of
the first half and felt they should have been awarded a penalty when James
Collins upended Andrew Surman, but referee Chris Foy correctly ruled the
challenge was just outside the area. Jussi Jaaskelainen denied Simeon
Jackson with a fine save just after the restart, but both sides ran out of
ideas. On-loan Tottenham youngster Harry Kane could have won it for the
hosts in stoppage time, only to scuff his shot straight at Jaaskelainen.
'There is a bit of frustration because we have had three games where we
cannot fault the performance or the chances we have created,' said Hughton,
who took over from Paul Lambert after he left for Aston Villa in the summer.
'We coped with West Ham very well, but when we have our opportunities, we
have to be showing a bit more quality and guile, perhaps also a bit of
fortune in that final third. 'I felt we did enough today and on the balance
of play had enough to win the game. 'There can be a disappointment we have
not got the goals to win the game, but no-one can question the endeavour of
the players.'
The Norwich manager accepts Hoy's decision was spot on, but that perhaps the
hosts were out of luck. He said: 'The one on the line was very close. In
another game, with another referee, then that is given. 'I think the referee
got his calls right.' Norwich captain Grant Holt failed to test the West Ham
defence, scuffing wide his best chance in the first half when the ball fell
to him in the penalty area. Hughton maintains the 31-year-old has lost none
of his hunger, having agreed a new deal after handing in a shock transfer
request at the end of the season which saw him become a summer target for
West Ham. 'I have seen the same desire in him that he has always shown
here,' said Hughton. 'The fact he has not scored will be a disappointment
for him, because he is a striker, and will work even harder to make it
right.
'What we want from every player is to be showing their best. 'Strikers want
to score and that is what Grant has done here over the past few seasons. 'I
am sure that will be the case again.' Hughton added: 'He has been very
focused on the games and in training, and I am quite sure with somebody of
Grant's qualities, if he keeps getting in the right positions and we can
keep creating chances, then it wont be long until he scores.' West Ham also
had their chances, especially early on when Carlton Cole's effort was
blocked and John Ruddy saved from Kevin Nolan. Substitute Matt Jarvis, a
£7million signing from Wolves, also saw a late effort deflected wide.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce said: 'It could have been anybody's game with
the way it went and the chances created, which no-one took. 'In the end, we
got the clean sheet and a very valuable point away from home. 'We have to be
satisfied with that because our finishing was not as good as it should have
been, nor was our final ball. 'We defended well, so it was a good point and
clean sheets now in three games out of four is a great basis to build any
team on.' Allardyce praised Merseyside referee Foy for what could easily
have been a game-changing call. 'It is a good decision by Chris Foy,' he
said. 'I have looked at the replay and he has got it right by inches. He
could so easily have been persuaded to give the penalty by where the player
finished in the box. 'Major decisions have to be given correctly by the
referee, and in this case, it was.'
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
