Academy stars target Olympic dream
WHUFC.com
West Ham United youngsters Elliot Lee and Blair Turgott would love to step
out at the Olympic Stadium
03.04.2013
West Ham United youngsters Blair Turgott and Elliot Lee were given a glimpse
of the future when they were present for the announcement that the club had
been given the right to make the Olympic Stadium their home. The pair, who
are regulars for the Development Squad, aim to continue in the fine
tradition of young footballers coming through the ranks for the Hammers.
Turgott recently signed a new two-year deal with the club, while Lee has
notched eleven goals for the Under-18 and Under-21 sides this season, and
they would both love to be involved when the Hammers make the move in three
years time. With Lee having debuted for the first team at Old Trafford, and
Turgott experiencing Wembley during his loan spell at Bradford City for the
Capital One Cup final, they have already tasted the big stage. 18-year-old
striker Lee said: "For me and Blair being young players coming through,
hopefully one day we can look forward to playing there. It can only benefit
the club and everyone involved with it. "I was honoured to make my debut at
Old Trafford and to play somewhere like this in 2016 would be brilliant as
well."
Turgott added: "It was nice to see the press conference and hear the
announcement that we're going to get the Olympic Stadium. It's obviously
great for the club and great for its future. "It's going to be in the top
five biggest football stadiums in the UK, the stature of the club fits it.
Playing there week in, week out, being the home team, would give you a lift.
"It was rocking during the Olympics and it'll be rocking when we go there."
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Vice-Chairman on Life Stories
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady will be appearing on Piers Morgan
Life Stories on Friday evening
03.04.2013
West Ham United Vice-Chairman Karren Brady will be making a special
appearance on hit TV show Piers Morgan Life Stories this Friday evening. Ms
Brady takes to the hot seat as she talks openly to Mr Morgan about the
experiences that have helped shape her life and career so far and how she
became Vice-Chairman of east London's most famous club back in 2010. She
goes on to speak about some of the toughest battles she has faced, both in
the Boardroom and at home trying to juggle motherhood and a highly
successful career. The Vice-Chairman also discusses how she is leading the
campaign to tackle sexism in the workplace and how pure grit and
determination helped guide her during the tough negotiations for the Olympic
Stadium, win CEO of the Year in 2012 and become the youngest Managing
Director in the Football League aged just 23. Piers Morgan Life Stories:
Karren Brady is on ITV1 at 9pm on Friday night or on the ITV Player after
the show here
https://www.itv.com/itvplayer/piers-morgan-s-life-stories/series-5/episode-1
2-karren-brady
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Jarvis glad to be winging it
WHUFC.com
Matt Jarvis revels in his role as he reflects on three more well-earned
points at the Boleyn Ground
03.04.2013
West Ham United wideman Matt Jarvis insists life on the wing is a joy with
the likes of Andy Carroll busting a gut to get on the end of his crosses.
The 26-year-old winger was at his menacing best for much of Saturday
afternoon, as the Hammers strode to a seventh league win at the Boleyn
Ground. While Carroll and co are no doubt grateful of the service, a
typically modest Jarvis is just glad to see his unstinting work go to good
use. "You know you can always put a ball in, just stand it up, or whip it
across and there's always going to be someone there that's dying to get on
the end of it," he told West Ham TV. "That's what I enjoy doing. Getting the
ball, running at players, putting in crosses and hopefully getting a few
shots in myself. I got a lot of the ball in the first half and maybe didn't
get quite enough of it in the second, but overall I'm pleased with my
performance."
Though Carroll stole the show with his memorable double, Jarvis was quick to
pay tribute to fellow midfielder Gary O'Neil, whose eye-catching goal capped
another classy display in the heart of midfield. That said, Jarvis was as
impressed as anyone with Carroll's twin strike. "Gary O'Neil has been
fantastic the last few weeks," he added. "He puts in such a shift and
doesn't get the praise he deserves. "The first goal's typical Andy, that's
him, getting in the box, getting his head on it. The second one was a great
strike. Technically, it's probably up there with the hardest things in
football and he nailed it."
Jarvis was in no doubt of the significance of Saturday's convincing win, one
that he expects to give everyone a huge lift. Though Sunday's trip to
Liverpool is, of course, a difficult one, for Jarvis, the squad's renewed
confidence could prove all important. "We've always played well at home this
season. We came flying out of the blocks, got our lead and managed to hold
onto it. It's a massive boost to get a win, especially in front of the crowd
and hopefully that can move us on. "You don't get any easy games and away to
Liverpool will be extremely hard but we're full of confidence after
Saturday. Let's not talk about [the club's record at Anfield], but if we can
go there and get a result, it would be a fantastic achievement."
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Hammers honoured at Kickz Awards
WHUFC.com
West Ham United scoop two prizes for community work with the Kickz project
03.04.2013
The West Ham United Kickz project scooped two prizes at the prestigious 2013
Kickz Awards ceremony at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge home on Tuesday.
The glittering event celebrates the work of the Premier League's flagship
community project over the last 12 months and honours all of the
participants, staff and volunteers who are helping to turn people's lives
around in some of the most disadvantaged parts of the community. The club's
Kickz co-ordinator George Chukwuma was delighted to see two youngsters from
his project rewarded for their input and progress in the scheme. "I'm really
proud to see our two participants receive awards today. They've both worked
hard over the last year and I hope they continue to make progress with us in
the future," said George.
"I joined West Ham United as a youngster and moved up the ladder from a
volunteer to a full time member of the team and I hope they are inspired by
my journey too."
Volunteer Award
This award is to recognise one volunteer (aged 16-25) from each community
scheme, highlighting their contribution and commitment. Philip Brown, 17,
has developed both his football ability and commitment considerably since
his involvement in the programme and he undertakes tasks to assist coaches
or lend a hand at events. The teenager first began attending West Ham's
Kickz programme at the age of 12 and has since represented the Kickz
football team at various tournaments. Philip, who also completed a work
experience placement within the club's community department during last
year's Easter break, has earned several qualifications through the Kickz
scheme including an FA Level 1 coaching badge and Community Leaders Awards.
Inspiring Young Person Award
This award allowed each club's community scheme to give recognition to a
nominated young person (aged 12-18) from their Kickz project based on
achievement, attitude, commitment and actions to help make the project a
success. West Ham's winner Jeremiah Kamanzi is a shining example of how the
Kickz project can be a positive influence in the life of a young person.
Having attended the project since the age of 13, the keen footballer has
progressed to a young volunteer role, helping coaches with the planning of
sessions and also taking warm-ups and cool downs after training. Although
young Jeremiah was unable to attend the event, the award was collected by
Kai Parkinson on his behalf.
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Crofty revved up for Olympic Stadium
WHUFC.com
Sky Sports Formula 1 commentator David Croft believes a move to Stratford
will boost West Ham United
03.04.2013
David Croft has watched West Ham United in action all over the world - now
he cannot wait to cheer on his Hammers at the Olympic Stadium. The Sky
Sports F1 HD commentator and lifelong West Ham supporter took advantage of a
break in the Grand Prix calendar to attend Saturday's 3-1 Barclays Premier
League victory over West Bromwich Albion with his five-year-old son Daniel.
Croft, who travels the world in between trips to the Boleyn Ground, says he
and Daniel cannot wait for West Ham to move to Straford, especially if it
means their beloved club will have a greater chance of challenging for
honours. "I'm quite excited about the move," said Croft, who reported at the
2004 Athens Olympic Games for BBC Radio 5 Live. "'Retractable seats' are the
best two words I have heard about the bid other than the three words 'West
Ham win'. "I don't want to go anywhere and sit miles from the pitch, so if
we have retractable seats the sight-lines will be fantastic. I've been to
the Olympic Stadium before and during the Olympics and I don't think it will
be a problem. "My five-year-old son is hugely excited about it. That's the
future of the club. I've been coming to Upton Park since I was 15 or 16 and
I love the place and have so many happy memories, but I want my team to be a
force to be reckoned with. I'm a father now and I want this club to mean as
much to my son as it does to me, and some silverware has got to come with
that. "I started supporting West Ham just before we won the FA Cup in 1980
and sadly thought more might come along on a regular basis, but it hasn't!
Once you pick your team, you never lose them. "To compete with the top
clubs, we needed to find a bigger stadium and the best thing for us to do is
to move into the Olympic Stadium for the club and for the area. West Ham
will continue to grow and grow and everyone who wants to see our matches
will be able to do so and afford to do so, especially with 100,000 tickets
being given away to those who really can't afford it. "I love this club and
I want it to grow and to start winning things. I want a bit of success and
to take my son to a cup final or a European match or even a Champions League
match - who knows? I just want a bit of glory and we need the big stadium to
achieve it."
Croft said he and Daniel had a great time watching Andy Carroll and company
firing West Ham to a vital victory over West Brom in person - a far cry from
the broadcaster's often tireless attempts to watch the Hammers in action
while working overseas. "We loved our day out. I always bring my son so he's
been coming since he was three. I thought it was a cracking performance and
the best I've seen Andy Carroll play for West Ham, winning everything in the
air, showing great control and scoring a fantastic volley to win us the
match. I thought we were absolutely superb from start to finish."
"I get more opportunities to watch West Ham play on the other side of the
world than I would by being in the UK and I will go to the nth degree to
make sure I don't miss a match! "At our first Grand Prix of the season in
Australia, I was wondering how on Earth I was going to find a bar to watch
the game in at three o'clock in the morning in Melbourne. Luckily, I didn't
need to as I had it on Fox Sports in my hotel bedroom, so I sat and watched
us play Chelsea until about a quarter to five in the morning - you have to
be there in spirit! "If I can get to see a West Ham game on TV while I'm
away, I'll do anything I can to do so. At the United States Grand Prix in
November, I was in Austin and we were the Monday night game against Stoke
City. "Someone told us to go to a bar called Bikinis because they have the
game on. It didn't come on, so they told us to try the Irish bar down the
road. We pegged it down there and just about got there in time for kick-off,
but they had a staff training day on and were closed! "We were just about to
give up when they told us to go to The Jackalope, which calls itself the
'Greatest bar in Austin', because the owner is West Ham fan! We got there
ten minutes in and were already a goal down so it wasn't a very happy sight.
We sat and watched it over the internet and it was worth it because we got a
point in the end!"
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Are We At Last Starting to See the Real Andy Carroll?
By S J Chandos
West Ham Till I Die
Just when many Hammers fans were writing off Andy Carroll, as a possible
summer signing, he goes and puts in the type of centre forward performance
that was originally expected of him. Yes, Carroll was physically a right
handful, for our opponents, in a number of games this season. But last
Saturday there was something extra in his display. As Alan Shearer stated on
MoTD, this was the type of 'nasty' centre forward display that Carroll put
in so often, while at Newcastle Utd, and prompted Liverpool to pay a club
record £35m fee. Indeed, Carroll appeared more mobile, far fitter and hungry
for the ball and to score goals. That was the big difference.
Carroll's game suffered at Liverpool, where he never seemed to realise his
potential. Whether that was because he was in awe of being at a bigger club,
suffered from the expectations that go with a £35m transfer fee or the
Liverpool playing style did not suit him. Whatever, a lot of commentators
predicted that Sam Allardyce's tactics would suit him better. And that
looked to be the case, as he put in a towering physical display, on his
debut, against Fulham. Then disaster struck in the form of injury, which
resulted in the disruption of a long lay off. He then returned and was
getting back fitness and form when an untimely injury struck yet again.
Obviously, having his season on loan at West Ham interrupted by long period
in the treatment room was far from ideal. But now he has regained full
fitness, his form has returned and that hunger to score, hitherto seemingly
absent, now seems to have also resurfaced after a long absence.
Did we finally see the real Andy Carroll last Saturday? It certainly appears
that way, although his critics will no doubt want to see a few more displays
of that calibre before conceding the issue. Its just a pity that Carroll is
to be forced to sit out this Sunday's fixture at Anfield. But at least he
will be fresh, and ready to go, for the following game against the Saints
and there will the added challenge of an head-to-head with Ricky Lambert.
Just recently many sources have been suggesting that West Ham may seek to
bring in Lambert as a replacement for Carroll this summer. So, Carroll might
feel that there is a point to be made in that particular match. And that's
hope that he builds upon the WBA performance and makes his point very
forcefully!
The press seem split over Carroll's destination in the summer, with The
Telegraph maintaining he has no future at Anfield, while the Daily Mirror
and Daily Mail go with the alternative line that Brendan Rogers will offer
him a Liverpool lifeline, as a 'impact substitute,' if West Ham do not take
up the £17m option to buy him this summer. The other story circulating is
that Rogers may attempt a swap deal with Newcastle Utd (if they avoid
relegation) with Carroll and Ben Arfa swopping clubs. This is a divergence
of opinion probably reflects the fact that no one actually knows what will
transpire this summer, so speculation replaces fact, until being proved or
disproved with the fullness of time. What we do know is that Sam Allardyce
has stated publicly that he wants conclude a permanent deal for Carroll. We
also know that Carroll appears happy at the club and that the owners have
committed to improving the squad in the run up to the 2016 move to the
Olympic Stadium. And a deal for Carroll could form a part of that revised
transfer policy this summer.
Another player recently talked of as a high profile signing in the summer is
Wilfred Bony. This story has had more ups and downs than West Ham's results
this season, with some sections of the press trumpeting Bony's capture,
ahead of the summer, and others pouring very cold water on his prospects of
joining us. Again, who knows the truth, but the probability is that, if
tempted to join West Ham, he is likely to see us as a 'stepping stone' in
his career path to the clubs competing in the Champions League. Even if this
is true, then surely few fans would complain if he scored 20-25 goals a
season for us, over a couple of campaigns, and helped us challenge for
honours and move forward as a club. Especially, if he attracted a large fee
and the means by which to capture a quality replacement. Perhaps that is how
we supporters should view the majority of modern players, ditch the
unrealistic expectation that they will show the club long-term loyalty and
rather view it as a case of us getting the very best out of them, before we
cash-in and buy a replacement who goes on to do a similar, if not better
job.
The likes of Wigan have been doing this for ages, identifying good quality
over-seas talent, harnessing their abilities to facilitate survival in the
PL and then replacing them, with players of similar quality, when they
inevitably move on to bigger clubs. Its just a matter of degree, really, as
currently middle ranking clubs, such as West Ham, raid the Wigans for their
best players and we are, in turn, vulnerable to the transfer approaches of
the PL top six sides. That is our current situation and it is likely to
continue to be so until secure the increased venues from the OS and look to
gate crash the top six regularly. Then we will have far better prospects of
signing and retaining the best talent on a longer term basis. Surely this
more pragmatic view of players is better than the inevitable outraged and
hurt reaction of fans when a player, like Ba or Diame, is successful at the
club and is then linked with the top PL clubs. After all, this club is
bigger than any one player and the bottom line for us must be that the
player has contributed to our success, while with us, and we have a quality
replacement ready to come in and continue the overall advancement of the
clubs cause. The major exception to that general approach being that we must
hold on to and develop our quality home grown youngsters at all costs.
Anyway, its a moot point. Another frequently mooted point, just recently,
has been about Paolo Di Canio and his alleged political sympathies.
Personally, I doubt very much that Paolo is an ideological Fascist. Any
association is likely to be more indirect and emotional, based upon Lazio's
historical reputation as Mussolini's favourite club and his youthful
affiliation to the club's extremist faction of supporters. Within the
context of Rome's fierce footballing rivalry, this will probably have been
reinforced by Roma's perception as the City's 'leftist' club (hence that
infamous 'salute' in front of the Roma fans). Yes, Paolo's statements about
Mussolini have been quoted selectively and designed to put him in the worst
possible light, but the fact is that he has been equivocal in the past in
his references to Italian Fascism! And Fascism is one of those things that
requires an unequivocal and consistent response. It must be rejected and
fought wherever it appears, until it is completely eliminated. There can be
no compromises with it on any level.
There is no reason to believe that Paolo di Canio is an actual Fascist,
especially considering that he has shown no interest in supporting the
current far-right parties in his native Italy. I also believe him when he
says he is not a racist, because the fact is there is no evidence to the
contrary. But I think that David Sullivan is correct in his article, in
today's edition of The Independent, when he wrote that West Ham could not
consider appointing a manager where there was any question about that person
sympathizing with Fascism. That would damage the club's reputation in the
community; undermining recent progress in promoting equality and
non-discrimination and marginalising any tiny pro-Nazi/anti-Semitic element
in our support. As Sullivan argues, for Di Canio to be considered as a
future West Ham Manager, he must first clearly and unequivocally reject
Fascism once and for all. That is sound advice!
I sincerely hope that he heeds David Sullivan's advice, because I think that
Paolo has the potential to be a top manager. So, if he does aspire to manage
the club, in the future, he should make a clear statement and take the issue
out of the equation once and for all.
S J Chandos.
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Carlton banks less cash
Exclusive
By CARL LONG
Published: 03rd April 2013
The Sun
CARLTON COLE'S West Ham future is 50-50 as the striker heads into new
contract talks. The Hammers are ready to discuss terms but the former
England player — who is a free agent this summer — will need to lower his
demands. Cole, 29, is thought to want £40,000 a week but the club's board
are more likely to offer half that. Crystal Palace boss Ian Holloway is a
big admirer of the striker and could be tempted to sign him on a free
transfer if the Championship club clinch promotion.
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Carroll's Kop hope
The Sun
By PHIL THOMAS
Published: 03rd April 2013
ANDY CARROLL will get a second chance at Liverpool — if he accepts he will
not be a regular starter. The £35million striker was not part of boss
Brendan Rodgers' plans this term and joined West Ham on a season-long loan.
Carroll cannot play at Anfield on Sunday under the terms of his deal. But
the Reds are willing to let him battle for a place next season — albeit
starting behind Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge in the pecking order. The
move gives the 24-year-old England striker hope he can still be a hit on
Merseyside. And it is also a statement from Liverpool to any potential
buyers that they are not about to sell the Geordie star on the cheap. But
the likeliest outcome is a return to Newcastle in a part-exchange for
midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa
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Going for a song: Why West Ham should make signing Andy Carroll their
priority this summer
The Mirror
3 Apr 2013 11:11
Steve Bardens
Two major decisions from the West Ham hierarchy last week. For better or
worse, the move to the Olympic Stadium has been sealed. Just a few more dots
and crosses and manager Sam Allardyce will commit his future to the club on
a long-term basis. But there is another issue to be resolved and it concerns
Andy Carroll. Against West Bromwich Albion last Saturday, the 24-year-old
striker was immense. Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley were left reeling by
his proven aerial power and a surprisingly decent touch on the deck. He has
shown what he can do when he is fit - and what an asset he would be to West
Ham if he was at the club on a permanently. Currently, he is loan from
Liverpool. But it is apparent that his future is away from Anfield. He cost
£35million when signed from Newcastle but he was not brought in by the
present manager Brendan Rodgers who has made it clear Carroll is not in his
plans. An open invitation if ever there was one and it should be accepted by
West Ham. Carroll won't be cheap but it is evident that Liverpool are
willing to cut their losses and accept an offer just north of £15m. That
would make him a huge investment in West Ham terms but hardly a gamble.
Allardyce is a fitness fanatic. If ever a player questions the manager's
opinion that his work rate has dropped, Sam will have the statistics ready
to back up his assertion. He has worked hard to get Carroll match-fit and
the rewards were evident against Albion. To keep him at Upton Park is a must
- a close-season priority for Allardyce. Naturally, there will be financial
hurdles to be overcome. His fee may be small change to the likes of Chelsea
and the two Manchester clubs but it represents a significant outlay by West
Ham. His wages would also test the budget. But a fit and sharp Andy Carroll
is worth every penny. He wins the vast majority of aerial challenge and his
superb volley last Saturday for his second goal is proof that he is no
one-trick pony. Definite food for thought for Messrs Gold and Sullivan and
Ms Brady once Premier League security is assured and that is not too far way
now.
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Inter Beat West Ham To Romanian Starlet
http://forzaitalianfootball.com/
Premier League side West Ham look set to lose out to Inter in the bid to
secure one of Romanian football's brightest prospects, Razvan Popa. Popa
currently plies his trade in the second tier of Romanian football for
Sportul Studentesc, thrusting himself into the limelight last year when he
made his top flight debut at the age of 15. Romanian paper Porsport, Inter
have beaten them to the punch, paying £250,000 for Popa, who will join the
Nerazzurri on a five-year contract.
West Ham were monitoring the 16-year-old midfielder and were intent on
signing him in for next season but look to have been trumped in their bid to
sign the Râmnicu Vâlcea native.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Thursday, April 4
Wednesday, April 3
Daily WHUFC News - 3rd April 2013
U18s return to winning ways
WHUFC.com
Kieran Sadlier scored twice as Steve Potts' U18s ended a six-match winless
run by beating Wolverhampton Wanderers
02.04.2013
Kieran Sadlier was the hero as West Ham United ended a six-match Barclays
U18 Premier League winless run with a 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Hammers had not tasted victory since overcoming Tottenham Hotspur in
their opening Tier One stage fixture after Christmas on 12 January. However,
leading scorer Sadlier (pictured) ensured Steve Potts' team would have a
welcome win to celebrate by scoring twice to take his tally to ten in 18
league matches played this season. After a goalless first half at Little
Heath, Republic of Ireland U19 international Sadlier put the Hammers in
front on the hour-mark before doubling the hosts' advantage with 20 minutes
remaining. Then, with 13 minutes to go, first-year scholar and Northern
Ireland U17 centre-back Jamie Harney completed the scoring. The U18s remain
bottom of the Tier One table, but can climb above West Bromwich Albion when
they travel to the Midlands to face the Baggies. The two sides drew 1-1 in
the reverse fixture at Little Heath on 2 February.
U18s: Baxter, Lyons-Foster (Trialist), Harney, Onariase, Knoyle, Page,
Marlow, Miles (Girdlestone 84), Makasi, Sadlier, Martins (Boakye-Yiadom 48)
Subs not used: Brown, Mavila, Homans, Gogo
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Ginge targets back-to-back wins
WHUFC.com
James Collins has his sights set on two wins in two when West Ham United
take on Liverpool
02.04.2013
James Collins is eyeing back-to-back Barclays Premier League victories for
the first time this term, with Sunday's trip to Liverpool already looming
large.
West Ham United turned on the style in an excellent 3-1 win over West
Bromwich Albion, a performance that Collins expects to inspire similarly
impressive feats on the road. For the Welsh centre-half, the nature of
Saturday's victory was a powerful reminder of the Hammers' supremacy at the
Boleyn Ground, success that he puts down, in part, to another quick start.
Collins told West Ham TV: We've been great at home all season. The fans have
been right behind us every game and we've come out of the blocks and always
performed well in the first half. "No matter who comes here, we know we're
going to give them a game. Obviously we beat Chelsea here last year and
though West Brom have had a great season, we've turned them over as well.
"It's a massive win. We knew beforehand it was a big game for us and luckily
we've performed and got the three points."
Though Collins tends to be more concerned with the happenings in his own
penalty area, he was still mightily impressed with the quality of the
Hammers' three goals. The 29-year-old even had the rare luxury of bagging an
assist, after watching Andy Carroll convert his delicately flighted
free-kick. "Two of the goals have come from set plays that we've worked on,
which is obviously quite a big part of our game," he added. "The third one
was a great finish and Gary O'Neil's was special was as well. It was great
to get the three points. To perform well and score three is always nice.
"With Andy being so good in the air, if you put it in and around him, we'll
get chances or he'll score and fortunately on Saturday we got one off him.
Andy's volley was a great goal. To hit it the way he did, on his wrong foot
as well. He's left footed predominantly. I think the way he played, anything
he was going to hit was going to go in. I thought he was superb."
Ever the perfectionist, Collins was inevitably frustrated with the Baggies'
late penalty award, one that denied the Hammers another prized clean sheet.
In truth, that the Hammers' goal had survived intact until the dying minutes
owed much to one brilliant stop from Jussi Jaaskelainen. "It was a
match-changing save. He was going one way, it's got the deflection and
Jussi's managed to get to it. I think we scored just after that which was
big. So he's top goalkeeper and it was a top save. "I was disappointed to
concede, as a defender I'd have liked the clean sheet. I don't think it was
a penalty. It was touch and go. But overall they didn't have too many clear
cut chances so we're happy with it."
Victory lifts the Hammers back to 11th in the Barclays Premier League and
with the top ten in sight, Collins is hopeful of a confident West Ham
showing at Anfield come the weekend. "We're looking at that [40-point mark].
We should have been there already to be honest. I wouldn't say results have
gone against us but we should have done better in certain games and been
there already. "We're full of confidence again. Obviously we weren't too
happy with the result at Chelsea, but we've put things right and got the win
against West Brom. We'll have a good week's training and head to Anfield
looking to get our first back-to-back wins of the season."
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McCallum scores in Aldershot win
WHUFC.com
West Ham United loan player has big impact at Aldershot Town
02.04.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Paul McCallum playing a vital role in Aldershot Town's
3-2 win over Oxford United on Easter Monday. The Shots are facing a battle
to keep hold of their Football League status as they currently prop up the
npower League 2 table, but they gave their survival hopes a boost with this
dramatic win over the U's. Hammers striker McCallum netted the opening goal
on 13 minutes and Craig Reid's penalty just after half time put them in
total control. But a quick double strike from Oxford drew them level, only
for Aldershot's Jeff Goulding to notch a late winner. McCallum was also
involved in Aldershot's 1-1 draw with Rochdale on Good Friday and has now
scored two goals in five games for his loan club.
In the Championship, Ravel Morrison caught the eye for Birmingham City in
their 4-0 win at Crystal Palace on Good Friday.. The 20-year-old midfielder
scored the Blues' third goal in the game, a result that took Lee Clark's men
into the top ten of the table. Morrison has now scored two goals in 20
league games during his loan at the St Andrews club. In the same division,
Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and will be hoping to
make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the Reebok Stadium on
Tuesday night.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Not guilty, plead spy trio
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 3rd April 2013
By: Staff Writer
Three men accused of fraud by false representation in the Olympic Stadium
spy case have pleaded not guilty. Richard Forrest, Lee Stewart and Howard
Hill denied all charges relating to an investigation concerning the unlawful
procurement of personal information, offences which are said to have taken
place in the summer of 2011 shortly after West Ham's original award of
'preferred bidder status' for the Olympic Stadium. In August of that year,
West Ham United called in police to investigate how sensitive data belonging
to employees of the club and the now-defunct Olympic Park Legacy Company -
data that included personal financial records - had been obtained by outside
parties. It was later claimed that agents working on behalf of Tottenham
Hotspur, who were at the time West Ham's rivals for tenancy of the Olympic
Stadium, had hired the accused in order to gain information that could
potentially undermine United's bid. The Sunday Times reported in July 2011
how one of the targets of the private investigators, a Ms Dionne Knight, had
been spied on at her home which she shared with her teenage daughter. Ms
Knight, who was employed by the OPLC in 2011 was targeted due to her
involvement in a personal relationship with Ian Tompkins, West Ham's
then-Olympic Director. The court heard how Hill, who was employed at the
time by accountants PFK as an investigator is said to have hired Forrest and
Stewart to obtain confidential information belonging to parties involved
with West Ham's Olympic bid. Forrest, Stewart and Hill will appear for trial
at Southwark Crown Court on 14th January 2014.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony reiterates desire to play in England
By Gerrit van Leeuwen. Last Updated: April 2, 2013 2:25pm
SSN
Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony remains open to the prospect of
completing a move to England over the summer. With speculation having linked
the Ivorian forward with a Premier League switch for some time, he has
admitted in the past to being open to offers. That remains the case, with
the 24-year-old eager to test himself at the highest possible level after
proving he can be a regular source of goals in Holland. Bony told Voetbal
International: "If I go to England that would be perfect because of the
league, the atmosphere - basically everything. "However, the leagues in
Germany and France are also interesting destinations."
West Ham United are said to be leading the chase for Bony's signature, but
he claims no formal approach has been made. He added: "I know about this
link about from hearing about it. There is nothing serious at the moment,
but it could be an option." For now, Bony is focused on Vitesse's efforts to
land the Eredivisie crown, with only three points separating them from
table-topping Ajax. He said: "The title? I don't know, but I know we can
beat the three other top teams."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James lands job in Iceland
The Sun
Published: 02nd April 2013
DAVID JAMES has signed for Icelandic club IBV as a player-coach.
Ex-Portsmouth team-mate Hermann Hreidarsson moved for the 42-year-old after
he left Bournemouth by mutual consent last month. James, capped 53 times by
England, had a trial earlier at the Scandinavian club earlier in the season
and announced on Twitter he has agreed a deal. He wrote: "I am going to sign
for #ibv in Iceland today. "My role is as player/coach, alongside Hermann.
We are both very excited about the journey ahead."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam worth wait in Gold
Exclusive
By CARL LONG
Published: 02nd April 2013
The Sun
WEST HAM co-chairman David Gold has revealed that he and David Sullivan are
close to agreeing a new deal with boss Sam Allardyce. Gold had said talks
would be held in the summer once West Ham knew what division they would be
in next season. But he is now claiming an announcement on a contract could
be made before the end of the current campaign. He said: "We like Sam and
Sam likes us and in those circumstances a deal will be done. "There are
still i's to dot and t's to cross but there's a willingness on both sides to
make it happen. "Details of the contract will remain private but once we are
assured of Premier League safety we would hope to be making an
announcement."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Kieran Sadlier scored twice as Steve Potts' U18s ended a six-match winless
run by beating Wolverhampton Wanderers
02.04.2013
Kieran Sadlier was the hero as West Ham United ended a six-match Barclays
U18 Premier League winless run with a 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Hammers had not tasted victory since overcoming Tottenham Hotspur in
their opening Tier One stage fixture after Christmas on 12 January. However,
leading scorer Sadlier (pictured) ensured Steve Potts' team would have a
welcome win to celebrate by scoring twice to take his tally to ten in 18
league matches played this season. After a goalless first half at Little
Heath, Republic of Ireland U19 international Sadlier put the Hammers in
front on the hour-mark before doubling the hosts' advantage with 20 minutes
remaining. Then, with 13 minutes to go, first-year scholar and Northern
Ireland U17 centre-back Jamie Harney completed the scoring. The U18s remain
bottom of the Tier One table, but can climb above West Bromwich Albion when
they travel to the Midlands to face the Baggies. The two sides drew 1-1 in
the reverse fixture at Little Heath on 2 February.
U18s: Baxter, Lyons-Foster (Trialist), Harney, Onariase, Knoyle, Page,
Marlow, Miles (Girdlestone 84), Makasi, Sadlier, Martins (Boakye-Yiadom 48)
Subs not used: Brown, Mavila, Homans, Gogo
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ginge targets back-to-back wins
WHUFC.com
James Collins has his sights set on two wins in two when West Ham United
take on Liverpool
02.04.2013
James Collins is eyeing back-to-back Barclays Premier League victories for
the first time this term, with Sunday's trip to Liverpool already looming
large.
West Ham United turned on the style in an excellent 3-1 win over West
Bromwich Albion, a performance that Collins expects to inspire similarly
impressive feats on the road. For the Welsh centre-half, the nature of
Saturday's victory was a powerful reminder of the Hammers' supremacy at the
Boleyn Ground, success that he puts down, in part, to another quick start.
Collins told West Ham TV: We've been great at home all season. The fans have
been right behind us every game and we've come out of the blocks and always
performed well in the first half. "No matter who comes here, we know we're
going to give them a game. Obviously we beat Chelsea here last year and
though West Brom have had a great season, we've turned them over as well.
"It's a massive win. We knew beforehand it was a big game for us and luckily
we've performed and got the three points."
Though Collins tends to be more concerned with the happenings in his own
penalty area, he was still mightily impressed with the quality of the
Hammers' three goals. The 29-year-old even had the rare luxury of bagging an
assist, after watching Andy Carroll convert his delicately flighted
free-kick. "Two of the goals have come from set plays that we've worked on,
which is obviously quite a big part of our game," he added. "The third one
was a great finish and Gary O'Neil's was special was as well. It was great
to get the three points. To perform well and score three is always nice.
"With Andy being so good in the air, if you put it in and around him, we'll
get chances or he'll score and fortunately on Saturday we got one off him.
Andy's volley was a great goal. To hit it the way he did, on his wrong foot
as well. He's left footed predominantly. I think the way he played, anything
he was going to hit was going to go in. I thought he was superb."
Ever the perfectionist, Collins was inevitably frustrated with the Baggies'
late penalty award, one that denied the Hammers another prized clean sheet.
In truth, that the Hammers' goal had survived intact until the dying minutes
owed much to one brilliant stop from Jussi Jaaskelainen. "It was a
match-changing save. He was going one way, it's got the deflection and
Jussi's managed to get to it. I think we scored just after that which was
big. So he's top goalkeeper and it was a top save. "I was disappointed to
concede, as a defender I'd have liked the clean sheet. I don't think it was
a penalty. It was touch and go. But overall they didn't have too many clear
cut chances so we're happy with it."
Victory lifts the Hammers back to 11th in the Barclays Premier League and
with the top ten in sight, Collins is hopeful of a confident West Ham
showing at Anfield come the weekend. "We're looking at that [40-point mark].
We should have been there already to be honest. I wouldn't say results have
gone against us but we should have done better in certain games and been
there already. "We're full of confidence again. Obviously we weren't too
happy with the result at Chelsea, but we've put things right and got the win
against West Brom. We'll have a good week's training and head to Anfield
looking to get our first back-to-back wins of the season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
McCallum scores in Aldershot win
WHUFC.com
West Ham United loan player has big impact at Aldershot Town
02.04.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Paul McCallum playing a vital role in Aldershot Town's
3-2 win over Oxford United on Easter Monday. The Shots are facing a battle
to keep hold of their Football League status as they currently prop up the
npower League 2 table, but they gave their survival hopes a boost with this
dramatic win over the U's. Hammers striker McCallum netted the opening goal
on 13 minutes and Craig Reid's penalty just after half time put them in
total control. But a quick double strike from Oxford drew them level, only
for Aldershot's Jeff Goulding to notch a late winner. McCallum was also
involved in Aldershot's 1-1 draw with Rochdale on Good Friday and has now
scored two goals in five games for his loan club.
In the Championship, Ravel Morrison caught the eye for Birmingham City in
their 4-0 win at Crystal Palace on Good Friday.. The 20-year-old midfielder
scored the Blues' third goal in the game, a result that took Lee Clark's men
into the top ten of the table. Morrison has now scored two goals in 20
league games during his loan at the St Andrews club. In the same division,
Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and will be hoping to
make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the Reebok Stadium on
Tuesday night.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Not guilty, plead spy trio
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 3rd April 2013
By: Staff Writer
Three men accused of fraud by false representation in the Olympic Stadium
spy case have pleaded not guilty. Richard Forrest, Lee Stewart and Howard
Hill denied all charges relating to an investigation concerning the unlawful
procurement of personal information, offences which are said to have taken
place in the summer of 2011 shortly after West Ham's original award of
'preferred bidder status' for the Olympic Stadium. In August of that year,
West Ham United called in police to investigate how sensitive data belonging
to employees of the club and the now-defunct Olympic Park Legacy Company -
data that included personal financial records - had been obtained by outside
parties. It was later claimed that agents working on behalf of Tottenham
Hotspur, who were at the time West Ham's rivals for tenancy of the Olympic
Stadium, had hired the accused in order to gain information that could
potentially undermine United's bid. The Sunday Times reported in July 2011
how one of the targets of the private investigators, a Ms Dionne Knight, had
been spied on at her home which she shared with her teenage daughter. Ms
Knight, who was employed by the OPLC in 2011 was targeted due to her
involvement in a personal relationship with Ian Tompkins, West Ham's
then-Olympic Director. The court heard how Hill, who was employed at the
time by accountants PFK as an investigator is said to have hired Forrest and
Stewart to obtain confidential information belonging to parties involved
with West Ham's Olympic bid. Forrest, Stewart and Hill will appear for trial
at Southwark Crown Court on 14th January 2014.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony reiterates desire to play in England
By Gerrit van Leeuwen. Last Updated: April 2, 2013 2:25pm
SSN
Vitesse Arnhem striker Wilfried Bony remains open to the prospect of
completing a move to England over the summer. With speculation having linked
the Ivorian forward with a Premier League switch for some time, he has
admitted in the past to being open to offers. That remains the case, with
the 24-year-old eager to test himself at the highest possible level after
proving he can be a regular source of goals in Holland. Bony told Voetbal
International: "If I go to England that would be perfect because of the
league, the atmosphere - basically everything. "However, the leagues in
Germany and France are also interesting destinations."
West Ham United are said to be leading the chase for Bony's signature, but
he claims no formal approach has been made. He added: "I know about this
link about from hearing about it. There is nothing serious at the moment,
but it could be an option." For now, Bony is focused on Vitesse's efforts to
land the Eredivisie crown, with only three points separating them from
table-topping Ajax. He said: "The title? I don't know, but I know we can
beat the three other top teams."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James lands job in Iceland
The Sun
Published: 02nd April 2013
DAVID JAMES has signed for Icelandic club IBV as a player-coach.
Ex-Portsmouth team-mate Hermann Hreidarsson moved for the 42-year-old after
he left Bournemouth by mutual consent last month. James, capped 53 times by
England, had a trial earlier at the Scandinavian club earlier in the season
and announced on Twitter he has agreed a deal. He wrote: "I am going to sign
for #ibv in Iceland today. "My role is as player/coach, alongside Hermann.
We are both very excited about the journey ahead."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam worth wait in Gold
Exclusive
By CARL LONG
Published: 02nd April 2013
The Sun
WEST HAM co-chairman David Gold has revealed that he and David Sullivan are
close to agreeing a new deal with boss Sam Allardyce. Gold had said talks
would be held in the summer once West Ham knew what division they would be
in next season. But he is now claiming an announcement on a contract could
be made before the end of the current campaign. He said: "We like Sam and
Sam likes us and in those circumstances a deal will be done. "There are
still i's to dot and t's to cross but there's a willingness on both sides to
make it happen. "Details of the contract will remain private but once we are
assured of Premier League safety we would hope to be making an
announcement."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Tuesday, April 2
Daily WHUFC News - 2nd April 2013
'It was nice to see one go in'
WHUFC.com
Gary O'Neil scored his first goal in a year to inspire West Ham United to a
valuable victory over West Brom
01.04.2013
Footage of West Ham United leaving the pitch after Saturday's 3-1 Barclays
Premier League win over West Bromwich Albion showed Gary O'Neil with a wide
grin on his face. O'Neil had good reason to be cheerful. The No32 scored his
maiden Boleyn Ground goal for the Hammers as Sam Allardyce's side took
another step towards safety. The midfielder's goal was also his first since
netting in the Championship victory at Peterborough United a year ago and
came two years after he suffered a career-threatening injury in a home
defeat by Aston Villa. O'Neil's 28th-minute strike put West Ham 2-0 up
against the Baggies and came courtesy of a technically superb first-time
right-foot curler into Ben Foster's top left-hand corner. "It was similar to
one I had up at their place this year that just missed the far post," the
29-year-old recalled to West Ham TV. "I can't kick it as hard as some of the
younger lads so I have to go for placement!
"It was nice to see one go in. It's about two years to the week since I got
my injury in the game against Aston Villa here, so it's nice to get a
Premier League goal. Obviously I got a couple in the Championship last year,
but it's nice to get back on the scoresheet in the Premier League."
Prior to his goal, O'Neil had also played a part in the Hammers' opener on
16 minutes, providing the inch-perfect corner for Andy Carroll to power into
the net with a trademark header. "Corners are something we work on because
we've obviously got a big side. If you get the delivery right, as I managed
to on the first one, Andy is going to be favourite. He was also unlucky with
the one in the second half that he got on the end of as well. "It's all
about the delivery because, if you can get it right, they are difficult to
defend."
O'Neil's fine defensive display helped West Ham to achieve an important
victory - one he hopes will propel the Hammers to a top-ten Barclays Premier
League finish. The No32 also revealed that the hosts' gameplan had worked
almost perfectly during a dominant performance. "We said before the game
that it was a big game for us - not for safety reasons but for the targets
we have set ourselves. We want be looking upwards and pushing into the top
half if we can. "It was a big game because West Brom have achieved that this
year. They have had a fantastic season and are on 44 points - a fantastic
tally - so to beat them so convincingly apart from the last 15 minutes when
it got a bit chaotic with injuries [to George McCartney] and the sending-off
[of Youssouf Mulumbu] and stuff, it was fairly comfortable. "It was a good
performance, especially the first half. We took our chances well and did
everything we had worked on. We knew they were going to sit off a bit so we
tried to drop balls into Andy and get balls wide to Jarvo and I thought it
worked quite well. "I've enjoyed it since I've been in there in that
slightly deeper role. I used to play there in the youth team so I knew I
could play in there. "It was probably a bit easier in the first half because
they only had two in the middle of the park, so we had the extra man which
gave me a little bit of space. The second half was a bit tougher and we were
defending a little bit more, but I've enjoyed my little role there so far."
After a difficult opening half to the season in terms of playing time,
O'Neil has taken advantage of an injury to the unfortunate Mark Noble to
impress in a defensive midfield role. "I just have to be slightly more aware
of the defensive side of things. Whereas when you are playing in one of the
two more advanced positions like Nobby [Kevin Nolan] and Mo [Diame], you can
get a bit carried away and make forward runs and follow the ball, which is
my tendency sometimes, I have to make myself aware of my new
responsibilities. "The lads behind me have been great. Winston [Reid] and
Ginge [James Collins] have been shouting at me non-stop 'left shoulder' or
'right shoulder' - there's always someone on one of my shoulders! "It's been
good and we've had some decent performances, barring Chelsea when I didn't
think we were too good. The other three games I have played in I have really
enjoyed."
Finally, one moment in Saturday's success that O'Neil did not enjoy quite so
much was the ball being booted into his backside by Baggies midfielder
Mulumbu. The incident saw the Congolese player dismissed by referee Andre
Marriner. "I caught his boot when I was chasing him. It was nothing
intentional, just one of those things, and he had probably trodden over me
all afternoon as well. "It was just one of those things that happens in
midfield and he just decided that he had had enough so he picked the ball up
and booted it at me. It was a strange little episode but at least we got the
three points."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ok, ok
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn may or may not have had another U-turn on the subject of the
Olympic Stadium. The day is young after all. However, we are pretty sure
that he hasn't arranged for the re-release of Snooker Loopy. We would
therefore unreservedly like to apologise for any distress and worry that the
prospect of being force fed a video of Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and the cast
of The Only Way Is Essex clutching headphones and singing along to a Chas &
Dave backing track might have caused anyone this April 1st. However, if it
turns up on the jukebox of the Boleyn Tavern which is being moved brick by
brick to the Olympic Park, we accept no responsibility at all. Ok?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Paolo Di Canio - If He's Good Enough for Swindon...
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
I make a point of trying not to bring my politics onto this blog. It's meant
to be about football, not politics.But there are some rare times when
football and politics cross over. The appointment of Paolo Di Canio at
Sunderland seems to be one of those times. So today I wrote a blogpost on it
for my political blog at www.iaindale.com. Anyway, since it also concerns
West Ham, and the possibility of him becoming our manager, I have reposted
it, in its entirety, here.
Oh the hypocrisy of the Left. It was OK for Paolo Di Canio to play for
Sheffield Wednesday, Celtic, West Ham and Charlton. It was OK for him to
manage little old Swindon Town in League One, but oh no, the thought of him
managing Premier League Sunderland is repellent. No, I'll tell you what is
repellent – it's the so-called 'liberal left' deciding who should do what
based on whether someone conforms to their own idea of normality or
political acceptability. And then, only deciding to enforce their own
illiberal ideas when it suits them. Where were the howls of indignation when
Di Canio took over at Swindon Town? No one cared, because, well, it was only
little old Swindon, wasn't it?
Only it's not anymore. Its Sunderland. Big old Premier League Sunderland.
And poor 'ickle' David Miliband has spat out his dummy and resigned as Board
adviser. I'm not surprised. He was paid £75k a year for offering advice, and
if the Board asked him for his advice on their new manager, they clearly
ignored it. His friends are pointing out that Miliband resigned because his
parents were Jews who fled the Nazis. He issued a statement which said…
"In the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it
right to step down."
I wonder how much time David Miliband invested in actually researching what
Paolo Di Canio believes. Did he actually look beyond the headlines, or did
he just write it in blind acceptance that Di Canio believes what he thinks
he does? I don't know if Paolo Di Canio is a Fascist or not, but surely
David Miliband understands there are some very marked differences between
Fascism and National Socialism. That does not mean that I have any sympathy
with anyone who has Fascist leanings, I do not. I regard the ideology as
politically repugnant and morally abhorrent. I wouldn't vote for a political
candidate with Fascist leanings, but we're not talking about an election
here, we're talking about football.
I'd like to think David Miliband might have taken some notice of people who
know Di Canio, people who count him as friends. Like Trevor Sinclair and
Chris Powell. Like the respected football writer Gabriele Marcotti. He told
5 Live: "I've known him very well for the last 15 years. There's no question
that he's not a racist. His record, his friendships, his relationships
pretty much speak for themselves. Marcotti is not some cheap tabloid
journalist looking for a headline. He is a serious writer.
Di Canio's former chairman at Swindon commented today…
"It is a sad knee-jerk response. I doubt David Miliband has ever met Paolo
Di Canio. I've known him for two years. I don't think politics was ever
discussed once. Paolo will have many strong views. He probably has a strong
view on whether Italy should be in the Euro, gay marriage or the endangered
Siberian tiger, but I doubt if it's really relevant to keeping Sunderland in
the Premiership. I think anybody's political views and their private views –
as long they're private and how they conduct themselves away from their job
– are pretty irrelevant. Nothing of that was ever discussed during his time
at Swindon. He was focused on success for us and that's what he'll do for
Sunderland."
Di Canio himself has released a statement, defending himself against
accusations of political extremism. Here's an extract…
"I don't have a problem with anyone. I haven't had a problem in the past and
I don't know why I have to keep repeating my story, to be defending myself
on something that doesn't belong to me every time I change clubs. "Talk
about racism? That is absolutely stupid, stupid and ridiculous. The people
who know me can change that idea quickly. When I was in England my best
friends were Trevor Sinclair and Chris Powell, the Charlton manager – they
can tell you everything about my character. "I don't want to talk about
politics because it's not my area. We are not in the Houses of Parliament,
we are in a football club. I want to talk about sport. I want to talk about
football, my players, the Board and the fans. My first priority is my family
and my daughters, that's obvious, and secondly to have the responsibility
for thousands of people. This is my priority and I want to be focused on
this aspect. I don't want to talk any more about politics – I am not a
politics person."
Let's cut out the moralistic crap we've heard today from the Telegraph's Dan
Hodges and others. It's the politics of the student union to talk about
'boycotting' Sunderland. Especially if you're not a Sunderland supporter. If
I were a Man U supporter, would I boycott them because their manager is a
devout left wing Socialist? Of course not. Would I boycott West Ham if they
appointed a Chinese Communist as manager? No. Because the club is always
bigger than any manager or player.
Paolo Di Canio is the greatest player I have ever seen in a West Ham shirt.
Some of his goals for the Hammers were truly breathtaking. He was an
inspiration. When he comes back to Upton Park nowadays and is spotted in a
corporate box, the crowd chant his name to the tune of Rigoletto. He will
always be a bit of a hero to us at West Ham. Many would happily have him
back as manager if Sam Allardyce comes to grief.
Sunderland fans have every right to question Di Canio's qualifications to
manage their club. He did very well at Swindon but his methods were, shall
we say, unconventional. They were methods which may have been acceptable in
a League One club, but time will tell how they translate to the Premier
League. If West Ham had been in Sunderland's position – and they very nearly
appointed Martin O'Neill two years ago – would I have wanted West Ham to
appoint di Canio? The truth is, no I wouldn't. He would be too much of a
risk. But it would have nothing to do with his political views (even if we
were certain as to what they were), it would be because of his managerial
unpredictability.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tony Cottee Interview Part 3: 'I Had No Doubts About Returning to West Ham'
By Iain Dale About 14 hours ago 6 comments
West Ham Till I Die
Let's talk about Everton. How different was it. When you arrived on the
first day was there part of you thinking, 'what the hell have I done?'
It was a culture shock. Listen, I'm a London boy, a cockney boy, a West Ham
boy. I had only ever known West ham. At the time it was a record transfer
fee. I had the option of Arsenal or Everton. To be really, really honest, if
you want me to be honest I will be, if Arsenal had come in and offered the
correct amount of money, then I would have probably signed for Arsenal
because I was a London boy. I knew that Everton were a great club, they were
flying high, they had won the League in 87. They had some fantastic players,
Sharpie, Reidy, Kevin Sheedy, Kevin Ratcliffe, Neville Southall, wonderful
players. I knew what there was up at Everton but I was a little bit
concerned because it was 200 odd miles away. If I was going to go to play
for Everton I couldn't commute backwards and forwards, I'd have to go and
live there. I'd be away from my Mum and Dad and the rest of the family…
Invest in some hubcap protectors…
Your words, not mine, Iain! There were a lot of things for me to be
concerned about. So the Arsenal move would have made sense. George Graham
was the manager, Arsenal didn't pay the big money and from a financial point
of view, I had to sign for Everton. That was the right move for me.
Also you weren't really a George Graham type of player, were you?
I don't know. Eventually he went out and bought Ian Wright. Arsenal fans
sometimes say to me, 'oh you should have signed for Arsenal' and I always
say 'well if had signed for Arsenal, you would never have got Ian Wright'.
It normally shuts them up because Ian Wright was a real hero for them. I
spoke to George, there were obviously problems with the manager. He tried to
sell the club to me, saying 'you'd be proud to play or Arsenal, wouldn't you
be proud to wear a blazer with the Arsenal Football Club badge on it?' I
looked at him and thought 'why? I'm a West Ham fan, why would I want to wear
an Arsenal blazer?' That was what I actually thought when he said it to me.
He didn't quite win me over. With Everton, Colin Harvey was the manager and
I looked at him and said 'Colin, why do you want to sign me?' He said 'I
want you to score 25 goals a season for me. I think we've got the players
who will give you the service, that's why I'm buying you.' It was music to
my ears. I wanted to go somewhere and be looked after and well thought of,
and being bought for the right reasons. I didn't want to chase full backs
around and be made to do what I wasn't good at. I wanted to do what I was
good at, which was to score goals. Ultimately, I think there was a clash
between what I had been used to at West Ham and the way Everton played their
football, but I still managed to score the goals for the club. I guess the
worst thing I ever did was to score a hat-trick on my debut. Where do you go
from there? The only possible way you can go is down.
Who was your best strike partner at Everton?
I had a great understanding with Graeme Sharp. He was a fantastic player to
play alongside. I loved playing with Peter Beardsley. I only had one season
with him but he was a dream to play alongside. He wasn't dissimilar to
McAvennie. Frank was very unselfish. He would work for the team. Frank
didn't mind passing to me and I'd have a tap in, whereas the other way
round, I'd run through and shoot, I wouldn't pass to Frank because I was a
selfish goalscorer. It was the same with Peter Beardsley. He would beat
three players, come up to the goalkeeper, square it to me and I'd tap it in.
Everyone would be cheering me and going mad, and yet I hadn't done anything.
But that has to be part of the striker's success – to be in the right place
at the right time. That's why you scored goals and someone like Iain Dowie
didn't.
Yes, it's about anticipation, a sixth sense, but you also have to keep
trying. When midfielder shoots at goal and the goalkeeper spills it and the
forward taps it in, it isn't about luck. You've got to be where the ball is
going to come out to. Whenever anyone had a shot at goal, my instinct was
always to follow up on the goalkeeper because he might spill it. Nowadays
you should do it even more because the ball is moving everywhere. Sometimes
you'd have to make a run eight or nine times and then all of a sudden the
goalkeeper would spill one, you'd tap it in and they'd say 'it's easy for
that Tony Cottee, isn't it?' but they never see what you do beforehand. All
the top strikers will do that. When the ball is bobbling around in the box
and everyone gets attracted to the ball, as a forward you think 'I might
just pull out here because the ball might come to me', and then the ball
comes and you tap it in. It's like Frank's goal against Chelsea. Everyone
goes to the ball and all of a sudden Frank is in acres of space and he heads
it in. It's anticipation, a sixth sense.
That's why Kevin Nolan scores so many goals isn't it?
Yes, he' got a knack of being in the right place at the right time.
How did the move back to West Ham come about?
I'd done enough at Everton. I'd been there six years. It was hard for me at
times, living up on Merseyside away from my family. I did miss the London
way of life. I lived in Southport for six years. My daughter was born there
- a really happy, fantastic time, living in a lovely house. There was a lot
going on that I knew would be difficult to get back in London. But when
you're a London boy and having been brought up in Essex, I really wanted to
come back home. I got a bit fed up when Mike Walker joined the club. He was
a poor manager. He didn't fancy me for whatever reason. There was a clash in
terms of what he wanted me to do, and what I wanted to do. At the start of
what was my 7th season at Everton we fell out. He put me in the reserves an
didn't want to play me. My agent said he would speak to a few London clubs
but I didn't in my wildest dreams ever think I would get the chance to go
back to West Ham. Then the agent came back and said Harry's looking for a
striker. It was all about timing and I went back in September 1994. When I
first left the club the fans were a bit 50-50 with me. Half of them
respected what I had done as a player and appreciated me as a goalscorer and
the other half – even though they felt that – thought they would give me
stick because I played for Everton and abandoned West Ham. The half that
were sceptical about me ever coming back to the club had to be won over. The
year before I came back, and dear old Bobby died they announced there would
be a charity game – West Ham v a Premier League Eleven. There was to be a
player from each Premier League club and I was determined I would be the one
from Everton. I was praying they would let me. Bobby Moore meant the world
to me anyway. I got chosen for the squad and thought 'Thank Christ for
that'. I'd probably been back and played at Upton Park three times by then
and had had a very mixed reaction. This time I thought I would find out what
the fans really thought of me. At the start of the game they read out all
the players and their clubs. When it got to Tony Cottee, Everton, I thought,
here we go. You had to stand forward and do a wave. The whole ground stood
and clapped, and it was like a welcome home thing for me. It was very
emotional. I played the game, scored the goal, we lost 2-1 and I knew after
that game that if ever the opportunity came to go back, I knew I would take
it.
Did you have any doubts about coming back? It doesn't always work does it?
No, there were no doubts. I spoke to Harry and when I met him it was fine.
When I went back not a lot had changed. Mind you, at the training ground not
a lot has changed now, has it?! Same old faces, same old training ground. I
knew what I was getting. It wasn't a journey into the unknown, it was a
journey back to what I knew. I knew that I would be fine. The only question
was whether I could recapture the form I showed in my first spell. I think I
was never going to be as prolific I was younger, fitter and faster then. I
came back from Everton a slightly different player – more of an all-round
player than the individual goalscorer that left West Ham. In some respects I
was a better player but I was never going to end up getting the 25 goals a
season that I got first time round.
You were there at the start of Harry's foreign invasion. What was that like?
It was different and a bit frustrating at times. Slaven Bilic and Marc
Rieper were great lads. Paulo Futre was a fantastic player, but he obviously
had injury problems when he came here, but what a talent. I just treated
them as an English or British player and tried to get them involved in the
banter. You can't have foreign players coming into a club talking in their
own languages and not being a part of what was going on. We were lucky at
the time. As well as the foreign players arriving we had the likes of
Dicksy, Don Hutch, Martin Allen, Ian Bishop. There were some real characters
in that dressing room so there was a really good team spirit. The foreign
players had to muck in. Slaven would sit in the back of the bus having a
beer and a smoke, as you could in those days.
Iain Dowie was there then. Why do fans forgive Andy Carroll for not scoring
goals, yet they wouldn't with Dowie. Because in some ways they are similar
players – prolific in the air, good at holding the ball up.
I think the players appreciated what Iain did. Emile Heskey is another good
example. I played with him at Leicester for three years and although the
Leicester fans appreciated him, I don't think England fans did, but you talk
to Michael Owen about him. He raves about him. He would say he was his best
ever strike partner, and he was one of my top three too. He would be right
up there. He used to work for the team. The fans don't appreciate players
like that because ultimately, if you're a forward you've got to score goals.
That's what you are on the pitch for. This applies to Andy now. The goal
return isn't there yet but he's doing other thing for the team, bringing
other people into play. West Ham fans really want him to get the goals
because then you've got the complete package, a real handful. Iain Dowie was
respected in a way. People respected his 100% attitude. It's a myth that
West Ham fans want 'total football' as their first criteria. I don't think
that's true. The first thing they want is someone to give 100% effort. If a
player doesn't try they will get on his back. You could never criticise Iain
Dowie for not giving 100%. OK, there were times when he didn't have good
games. He went a long, long time without scoring a goal, but you could never
fault his effort. That's what they see with Andy Carroll. They see the
effort, but not the end product.
What was Harry Redknapp like to play for? What were the good sides and bad
sides of Harry Redknapp?
I really enjoyed working under Harry. But by the time I left, I got the
impression you had a two year lifespan with Harry. My first season I was
God's gift to football, everything I did, he said 'fantastic Tone, best
finisher I've ever worked with' – he'd give me all that sort of stuff. But
in the second season he seemed to have some doubts about me and my ability
as a forward to score goals. I'd only just turned 30 and in today's terms
that's still a youngster. I think Harry had a doubt that I was the right man
to lead the line and get the goals. That season I was playing with Iain
Dowie and Iain wasn't getting the goals either. I got injured at the start
of my third season, a lot of foreign players had come in – Porfirio,
Radicoiou, Dumitrescu – and although none of them were scoring as many goals
as I was Harry discarded me a little bit too quickly. That applied to a lot
of other players too and that probably still applies to his management
style. You get two years to impress and after that he spins the wheel again
and gets someone else in. He very rarely keeps players for 4, 5 or 6 years,
not that he stays at a club for that length of time! Harry's style is to
spin as many players round as possible. Obviously that didn't suit me. I
think he made a mistake by selling me to Malaysia. As soon as I left West
Ham were in massive trouble and they needed a goalscorer, and he'd just sold
his goalscorer. He said at one point he did try to re-sign me from Malaysia
but whether he did or not I really don't know. But then he signed Hartson
and Kitson and got out of trouble. It was a bit of an odd thing to do to
sell me. I had been top goalscorer for the two seasons I was there. I was
fit. My sole objective at the start of every season was to be the top
goalscorer and I did it those two seasons.
You mentioned Hugo Porfirio there. I thought he could have been a world
class player, but he seemed to get ideas above his station and in the end he
disappeared into oblivion.
He was a good player but I wouldn't say he was anything exceptional. Dani
was another one. A pretty boy who arrived, played nine games and then
disappeared. It felt like it was a revolving door. Harry kept doing his
wheeling and dealing and when he left the club in 2001 it was undeniably in
a stronger position than when he took over from Bill in 1994. You've got to
say he was a success from that point of view.
Tony Cottee's new book WEST HAM: THE INSIDE STORY is available now in
paperback at £14.99.
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Red faced: Youssouf Mulumbu apologises for silly sending off in defeat at
West Ham
The Mirror
1 Apr 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Youssouf Mulumbu has apologised for his red-mist at West Ham after picking
the ball up and kicking it at Gary O'Neil. West Brom midfielder Mulumbu was
ordered off by referee Andre Marriner for his astonishing petulant act.
Congo international Mulumbu lost his rag with Albion trailing 3-1 in the
90th minute.
He now faces a three-match ban and fine for picking the ball up and lashing
it at midfield rival O'Neil. Mulumbu Tweeted: "I'm really sorry about what I
happen it doesn't look like me. Not a good example for the kids and all WBA
supporters." The midfielder however appears to have the backing of
team-mates. Albion keeper Ben Foster Tweeted him: "don't you worry about it
mate, you're Mr Professional, everyone slips up some times."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Gary O'Neil scored his first goal in a year to inspire West Ham United to a
valuable victory over West Brom
01.04.2013
Footage of West Ham United leaving the pitch after Saturday's 3-1 Barclays
Premier League win over West Bromwich Albion showed Gary O'Neil with a wide
grin on his face. O'Neil had good reason to be cheerful. The No32 scored his
maiden Boleyn Ground goal for the Hammers as Sam Allardyce's side took
another step towards safety. The midfielder's goal was also his first since
netting in the Championship victory at Peterborough United a year ago and
came two years after he suffered a career-threatening injury in a home
defeat by Aston Villa. O'Neil's 28th-minute strike put West Ham 2-0 up
against the Baggies and came courtesy of a technically superb first-time
right-foot curler into Ben Foster's top left-hand corner. "It was similar to
one I had up at their place this year that just missed the far post," the
29-year-old recalled to West Ham TV. "I can't kick it as hard as some of the
younger lads so I have to go for placement!
"It was nice to see one go in. It's about two years to the week since I got
my injury in the game against Aston Villa here, so it's nice to get a
Premier League goal. Obviously I got a couple in the Championship last year,
but it's nice to get back on the scoresheet in the Premier League."
Prior to his goal, O'Neil had also played a part in the Hammers' opener on
16 minutes, providing the inch-perfect corner for Andy Carroll to power into
the net with a trademark header. "Corners are something we work on because
we've obviously got a big side. If you get the delivery right, as I managed
to on the first one, Andy is going to be favourite. He was also unlucky with
the one in the second half that he got on the end of as well. "It's all
about the delivery because, if you can get it right, they are difficult to
defend."
O'Neil's fine defensive display helped West Ham to achieve an important
victory - one he hopes will propel the Hammers to a top-ten Barclays Premier
League finish. The No32 also revealed that the hosts' gameplan had worked
almost perfectly during a dominant performance. "We said before the game
that it was a big game for us - not for safety reasons but for the targets
we have set ourselves. We want be looking upwards and pushing into the top
half if we can. "It was a big game because West Brom have achieved that this
year. They have had a fantastic season and are on 44 points - a fantastic
tally - so to beat them so convincingly apart from the last 15 minutes when
it got a bit chaotic with injuries [to George McCartney] and the sending-off
[of Youssouf Mulumbu] and stuff, it was fairly comfortable. "It was a good
performance, especially the first half. We took our chances well and did
everything we had worked on. We knew they were going to sit off a bit so we
tried to drop balls into Andy and get balls wide to Jarvo and I thought it
worked quite well. "I've enjoyed it since I've been in there in that
slightly deeper role. I used to play there in the youth team so I knew I
could play in there. "It was probably a bit easier in the first half because
they only had two in the middle of the park, so we had the extra man which
gave me a little bit of space. The second half was a bit tougher and we were
defending a little bit more, but I've enjoyed my little role there so far."
After a difficult opening half to the season in terms of playing time,
O'Neil has taken advantage of an injury to the unfortunate Mark Noble to
impress in a defensive midfield role. "I just have to be slightly more aware
of the defensive side of things. Whereas when you are playing in one of the
two more advanced positions like Nobby [Kevin Nolan] and Mo [Diame], you can
get a bit carried away and make forward runs and follow the ball, which is
my tendency sometimes, I have to make myself aware of my new
responsibilities. "The lads behind me have been great. Winston [Reid] and
Ginge [James Collins] have been shouting at me non-stop 'left shoulder' or
'right shoulder' - there's always someone on one of my shoulders! "It's been
good and we've had some decent performances, barring Chelsea when I didn't
think we were too good. The other three games I have played in I have really
enjoyed."
Finally, one moment in Saturday's success that O'Neil did not enjoy quite so
much was the ball being booted into his backside by Baggies midfielder
Mulumbu. The incident saw the Congolese player dismissed by referee Andre
Marriner. "I caught his boot when I was chasing him. It was nothing
intentional, just one of those things, and he had probably trodden over me
all afternoon as well. "It was just one of those things that happens in
midfield and he just decided that he had had enough so he picked the ball up
and booted it at me. It was a strange little episode but at least we got the
three points."
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Ok, ok
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn may or may not have had another U-turn on the subject of the
Olympic Stadium. The day is young after all. However, we are pretty sure
that he hasn't arranged for the re-release of Snooker Loopy. We would
therefore unreservedly like to apologise for any distress and worry that the
prospect of being force fed a video of Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and the cast
of The Only Way Is Essex clutching headphones and singing along to a Chas &
Dave backing track might have caused anyone this April 1st. However, if it
turns up on the jukebox of the Boleyn Tavern which is being moved brick by
brick to the Olympic Park, we accept no responsibility at all. Ok?
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Paolo Di Canio - If He's Good Enough for Swindon...
By Iain Dale
West Ham Till I Die
I make a point of trying not to bring my politics onto this blog. It's meant
to be about football, not politics.But there are some rare times when
football and politics cross over. The appointment of Paolo Di Canio at
Sunderland seems to be one of those times. So today I wrote a blogpost on it
for my political blog at www.iaindale.com. Anyway, since it also concerns
West Ham, and the possibility of him becoming our manager, I have reposted
it, in its entirety, here.
Oh the hypocrisy of the Left. It was OK for Paolo Di Canio to play for
Sheffield Wednesday, Celtic, West Ham and Charlton. It was OK for him to
manage little old Swindon Town in League One, but oh no, the thought of him
managing Premier League Sunderland is repellent. No, I'll tell you what is
repellent – it's the so-called 'liberal left' deciding who should do what
based on whether someone conforms to their own idea of normality or
political acceptability. And then, only deciding to enforce their own
illiberal ideas when it suits them. Where were the howls of indignation when
Di Canio took over at Swindon Town? No one cared, because, well, it was only
little old Swindon, wasn't it?
Only it's not anymore. Its Sunderland. Big old Premier League Sunderland.
And poor 'ickle' David Miliband has spat out his dummy and resigned as Board
adviser. I'm not surprised. He was paid £75k a year for offering advice, and
if the Board asked him for his advice on their new manager, they clearly
ignored it. His friends are pointing out that Miliband resigned because his
parents were Jews who fled the Nazis. He issued a statement which said…
"In the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it
right to step down."
I wonder how much time David Miliband invested in actually researching what
Paolo Di Canio believes. Did he actually look beyond the headlines, or did
he just write it in blind acceptance that Di Canio believes what he thinks
he does? I don't know if Paolo Di Canio is a Fascist or not, but surely
David Miliband understands there are some very marked differences between
Fascism and National Socialism. That does not mean that I have any sympathy
with anyone who has Fascist leanings, I do not. I regard the ideology as
politically repugnant and morally abhorrent. I wouldn't vote for a political
candidate with Fascist leanings, but we're not talking about an election
here, we're talking about football.
I'd like to think David Miliband might have taken some notice of people who
know Di Canio, people who count him as friends. Like Trevor Sinclair and
Chris Powell. Like the respected football writer Gabriele Marcotti. He told
5 Live: "I've known him very well for the last 15 years. There's no question
that he's not a racist. His record, his friendships, his relationships
pretty much speak for themselves. Marcotti is not some cheap tabloid
journalist looking for a headline. He is a serious writer.
Di Canio's former chairman at Swindon commented today…
"It is a sad knee-jerk response. I doubt David Miliband has ever met Paolo
Di Canio. I've known him for two years. I don't think politics was ever
discussed once. Paolo will have many strong views. He probably has a strong
view on whether Italy should be in the Euro, gay marriage or the endangered
Siberian tiger, but I doubt if it's really relevant to keeping Sunderland in
the Premiership. I think anybody's political views and their private views –
as long they're private and how they conduct themselves away from their job
– are pretty irrelevant. Nothing of that was ever discussed during his time
at Swindon. He was focused on success for us and that's what he'll do for
Sunderland."
Di Canio himself has released a statement, defending himself against
accusations of political extremism. Here's an extract…
"I don't have a problem with anyone. I haven't had a problem in the past and
I don't know why I have to keep repeating my story, to be defending myself
on something that doesn't belong to me every time I change clubs. "Talk
about racism? That is absolutely stupid, stupid and ridiculous. The people
who know me can change that idea quickly. When I was in England my best
friends were Trevor Sinclair and Chris Powell, the Charlton manager – they
can tell you everything about my character. "I don't want to talk about
politics because it's not my area. We are not in the Houses of Parliament,
we are in a football club. I want to talk about sport. I want to talk about
football, my players, the Board and the fans. My first priority is my family
and my daughters, that's obvious, and secondly to have the responsibility
for thousands of people. This is my priority and I want to be focused on
this aspect. I don't want to talk any more about politics – I am not a
politics person."
Let's cut out the moralistic crap we've heard today from the Telegraph's Dan
Hodges and others. It's the politics of the student union to talk about
'boycotting' Sunderland. Especially if you're not a Sunderland supporter. If
I were a Man U supporter, would I boycott them because their manager is a
devout left wing Socialist? Of course not. Would I boycott West Ham if they
appointed a Chinese Communist as manager? No. Because the club is always
bigger than any manager or player.
Paolo Di Canio is the greatest player I have ever seen in a West Ham shirt.
Some of his goals for the Hammers were truly breathtaking. He was an
inspiration. When he comes back to Upton Park nowadays and is spotted in a
corporate box, the crowd chant his name to the tune of Rigoletto. He will
always be a bit of a hero to us at West Ham. Many would happily have him
back as manager if Sam Allardyce comes to grief.
Sunderland fans have every right to question Di Canio's qualifications to
manage their club. He did very well at Swindon but his methods were, shall
we say, unconventional. They were methods which may have been acceptable in
a League One club, but time will tell how they translate to the Premier
League. If West Ham had been in Sunderland's position – and they very nearly
appointed Martin O'Neill two years ago – would I have wanted West Ham to
appoint di Canio? The truth is, no I wouldn't. He would be too much of a
risk. But it would have nothing to do with his political views (even if we
were certain as to what they were), it would be because of his managerial
unpredictability.
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Tony Cottee Interview Part 3: 'I Had No Doubts About Returning to West Ham'
By Iain Dale About 14 hours ago 6 comments
West Ham Till I Die
Let's talk about Everton. How different was it. When you arrived on the
first day was there part of you thinking, 'what the hell have I done?'
It was a culture shock. Listen, I'm a London boy, a cockney boy, a West Ham
boy. I had only ever known West ham. At the time it was a record transfer
fee. I had the option of Arsenal or Everton. To be really, really honest, if
you want me to be honest I will be, if Arsenal had come in and offered the
correct amount of money, then I would have probably signed for Arsenal
because I was a London boy. I knew that Everton were a great club, they were
flying high, they had won the League in 87. They had some fantastic players,
Sharpie, Reidy, Kevin Sheedy, Kevin Ratcliffe, Neville Southall, wonderful
players. I knew what there was up at Everton but I was a little bit
concerned because it was 200 odd miles away. If I was going to go to play
for Everton I couldn't commute backwards and forwards, I'd have to go and
live there. I'd be away from my Mum and Dad and the rest of the family…
Invest in some hubcap protectors…
Your words, not mine, Iain! There were a lot of things for me to be
concerned about. So the Arsenal move would have made sense. George Graham
was the manager, Arsenal didn't pay the big money and from a financial point
of view, I had to sign for Everton. That was the right move for me.
Also you weren't really a George Graham type of player, were you?
I don't know. Eventually he went out and bought Ian Wright. Arsenal fans
sometimes say to me, 'oh you should have signed for Arsenal' and I always
say 'well if had signed for Arsenal, you would never have got Ian Wright'.
It normally shuts them up because Ian Wright was a real hero for them. I
spoke to George, there were obviously problems with the manager. He tried to
sell the club to me, saying 'you'd be proud to play or Arsenal, wouldn't you
be proud to wear a blazer with the Arsenal Football Club badge on it?' I
looked at him and thought 'why? I'm a West Ham fan, why would I want to wear
an Arsenal blazer?' That was what I actually thought when he said it to me.
He didn't quite win me over. With Everton, Colin Harvey was the manager and
I looked at him and said 'Colin, why do you want to sign me?' He said 'I
want you to score 25 goals a season for me. I think we've got the players
who will give you the service, that's why I'm buying you.' It was music to
my ears. I wanted to go somewhere and be looked after and well thought of,
and being bought for the right reasons. I didn't want to chase full backs
around and be made to do what I wasn't good at. I wanted to do what I was
good at, which was to score goals. Ultimately, I think there was a clash
between what I had been used to at West Ham and the way Everton played their
football, but I still managed to score the goals for the club. I guess the
worst thing I ever did was to score a hat-trick on my debut. Where do you go
from there? The only possible way you can go is down.
Who was your best strike partner at Everton?
I had a great understanding with Graeme Sharp. He was a fantastic player to
play alongside. I loved playing with Peter Beardsley. I only had one season
with him but he was a dream to play alongside. He wasn't dissimilar to
McAvennie. Frank was very unselfish. He would work for the team. Frank
didn't mind passing to me and I'd have a tap in, whereas the other way
round, I'd run through and shoot, I wouldn't pass to Frank because I was a
selfish goalscorer. It was the same with Peter Beardsley. He would beat
three players, come up to the goalkeeper, square it to me and I'd tap it in.
Everyone would be cheering me and going mad, and yet I hadn't done anything.
But that has to be part of the striker's success – to be in the right place
at the right time. That's why you scored goals and someone like Iain Dowie
didn't.
Yes, it's about anticipation, a sixth sense, but you also have to keep
trying. When midfielder shoots at goal and the goalkeeper spills it and the
forward taps it in, it isn't about luck. You've got to be where the ball is
going to come out to. Whenever anyone had a shot at goal, my instinct was
always to follow up on the goalkeeper because he might spill it. Nowadays
you should do it even more because the ball is moving everywhere. Sometimes
you'd have to make a run eight or nine times and then all of a sudden the
goalkeeper would spill one, you'd tap it in and they'd say 'it's easy for
that Tony Cottee, isn't it?' but they never see what you do beforehand. All
the top strikers will do that. When the ball is bobbling around in the box
and everyone gets attracted to the ball, as a forward you think 'I might
just pull out here because the ball might come to me', and then the ball
comes and you tap it in. It's like Frank's goal against Chelsea. Everyone
goes to the ball and all of a sudden Frank is in acres of space and he heads
it in. It's anticipation, a sixth sense.
That's why Kevin Nolan scores so many goals isn't it?
Yes, he' got a knack of being in the right place at the right time.
How did the move back to West Ham come about?
I'd done enough at Everton. I'd been there six years. It was hard for me at
times, living up on Merseyside away from my family. I did miss the London
way of life. I lived in Southport for six years. My daughter was born there
- a really happy, fantastic time, living in a lovely house. There was a lot
going on that I knew would be difficult to get back in London. But when
you're a London boy and having been brought up in Essex, I really wanted to
come back home. I got a bit fed up when Mike Walker joined the club. He was
a poor manager. He didn't fancy me for whatever reason. There was a clash in
terms of what he wanted me to do, and what I wanted to do. At the start of
what was my 7th season at Everton we fell out. He put me in the reserves an
didn't want to play me. My agent said he would speak to a few London clubs
but I didn't in my wildest dreams ever think I would get the chance to go
back to West Ham. Then the agent came back and said Harry's looking for a
striker. It was all about timing and I went back in September 1994. When I
first left the club the fans were a bit 50-50 with me. Half of them
respected what I had done as a player and appreciated me as a goalscorer and
the other half – even though they felt that – thought they would give me
stick because I played for Everton and abandoned West Ham. The half that
were sceptical about me ever coming back to the club had to be won over. The
year before I came back, and dear old Bobby died they announced there would
be a charity game – West Ham v a Premier League Eleven. There was to be a
player from each Premier League club and I was determined I would be the one
from Everton. I was praying they would let me. Bobby Moore meant the world
to me anyway. I got chosen for the squad and thought 'Thank Christ for
that'. I'd probably been back and played at Upton Park three times by then
and had had a very mixed reaction. This time I thought I would find out what
the fans really thought of me. At the start of the game they read out all
the players and their clubs. When it got to Tony Cottee, Everton, I thought,
here we go. You had to stand forward and do a wave. The whole ground stood
and clapped, and it was like a welcome home thing for me. It was very
emotional. I played the game, scored the goal, we lost 2-1 and I knew after
that game that if ever the opportunity came to go back, I knew I would take
it.
Did you have any doubts about coming back? It doesn't always work does it?
No, there were no doubts. I spoke to Harry and when I met him it was fine.
When I went back not a lot had changed. Mind you, at the training ground not
a lot has changed now, has it?! Same old faces, same old training ground. I
knew what I was getting. It wasn't a journey into the unknown, it was a
journey back to what I knew. I knew that I would be fine. The only question
was whether I could recapture the form I showed in my first spell. I think I
was never going to be as prolific I was younger, fitter and faster then. I
came back from Everton a slightly different player – more of an all-round
player than the individual goalscorer that left West Ham. In some respects I
was a better player but I was never going to end up getting the 25 goals a
season that I got first time round.
You were there at the start of Harry's foreign invasion. What was that like?
It was different and a bit frustrating at times. Slaven Bilic and Marc
Rieper were great lads. Paulo Futre was a fantastic player, but he obviously
had injury problems when he came here, but what a talent. I just treated
them as an English or British player and tried to get them involved in the
banter. You can't have foreign players coming into a club talking in their
own languages and not being a part of what was going on. We were lucky at
the time. As well as the foreign players arriving we had the likes of
Dicksy, Don Hutch, Martin Allen, Ian Bishop. There were some real characters
in that dressing room so there was a really good team spirit. The foreign
players had to muck in. Slaven would sit in the back of the bus having a
beer and a smoke, as you could in those days.
Iain Dowie was there then. Why do fans forgive Andy Carroll for not scoring
goals, yet they wouldn't with Dowie. Because in some ways they are similar
players – prolific in the air, good at holding the ball up.
I think the players appreciated what Iain did. Emile Heskey is another good
example. I played with him at Leicester for three years and although the
Leicester fans appreciated him, I don't think England fans did, but you talk
to Michael Owen about him. He raves about him. He would say he was his best
ever strike partner, and he was one of my top three too. He would be right
up there. He used to work for the team. The fans don't appreciate players
like that because ultimately, if you're a forward you've got to score goals.
That's what you are on the pitch for. This applies to Andy now. The goal
return isn't there yet but he's doing other thing for the team, bringing
other people into play. West Ham fans really want him to get the goals
because then you've got the complete package, a real handful. Iain Dowie was
respected in a way. People respected his 100% attitude. It's a myth that
West Ham fans want 'total football' as their first criteria. I don't think
that's true. The first thing they want is someone to give 100% effort. If a
player doesn't try they will get on his back. You could never criticise Iain
Dowie for not giving 100%. OK, there were times when he didn't have good
games. He went a long, long time without scoring a goal, but you could never
fault his effort. That's what they see with Andy Carroll. They see the
effort, but not the end product.
What was Harry Redknapp like to play for? What were the good sides and bad
sides of Harry Redknapp?
I really enjoyed working under Harry. But by the time I left, I got the
impression you had a two year lifespan with Harry. My first season I was
God's gift to football, everything I did, he said 'fantastic Tone, best
finisher I've ever worked with' – he'd give me all that sort of stuff. But
in the second season he seemed to have some doubts about me and my ability
as a forward to score goals. I'd only just turned 30 and in today's terms
that's still a youngster. I think Harry had a doubt that I was the right man
to lead the line and get the goals. That season I was playing with Iain
Dowie and Iain wasn't getting the goals either. I got injured at the start
of my third season, a lot of foreign players had come in – Porfirio,
Radicoiou, Dumitrescu – and although none of them were scoring as many goals
as I was Harry discarded me a little bit too quickly. That applied to a lot
of other players too and that probably still applies to his management
style. You get two years to impress and after that he spins the wheel again
and gets someone else in. He very rarely keeps players for 4, 5 or 6 years,
not that he stays at a club for that length of time! Harry's style is to
spin as many players round as possible. Obviously that didn't suit me. I
think he made a mistake by selling me to Malaysia. As soon as I left West
Ham were in massive trouble and they needed a goalscorer, and he'd just sold
his goalscorer. He said at one point he did try to re-sign me from Malaysia
but whether he did or not I really don't know. But then he signed Hartson
and Kitson and got out of trouble. It was a bit of an odd thing to do to
sell me. I had been top goalscorer for the two seasons I was there. I was
fit. My sole objective at the start of every season was to be the top
goalscorer and I did it those two seasons.
You mentioned Hugo Porfirio there. I thought he could have been a world
class player, but he seemed to get ideas above his station and in the end he
disappeared into oblivion.
He was a good player but I wouldn't say he was anything exceptional. Dani
was another one. A pretty boy who arrived, played nine games and then
disappeared. It felt like it was a revolving door. Harry kept doing his
wheeling and dealing and when he left the club in 2001 it was undeniably in
a stronger position than when he took over from Bill in 1994. You've got to
say he was a success from that point of view.
Tony Cottee's new book WEST HAM: THE INSIDE STORY is available now in
paperback at £14.99.
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Red faced: Youssouf Mulumbu apologises for silly sending off in defeat at
West Ham
The Mirror
1 Apr 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Youssouf Mulumbu has apologised for his red-mist at West Ham after picking
the ball up and kicking it at Gary O'Neil. West Brom midfielder Mulumbu was
ordered off by referee Andre Marriner for his astonishing petulant act.
Congo international Mulumbu lost his rag with Albion trailing 3-1 in the
90th minute.
He now faces a three-match ban and fine for picking the ball up and lashing
it at midfield rival O'Neil. Mulumbu Tweeted: "I'm really sorry about what I
happen it doesn't look like me. Not a good example for the kids and all WBA
supporters." The midfielder however appears to have the backing of
team-mates. Albion keeper Ben Foster Tweeted him: "don't you worry about it
mate, you're Mr Professional, everyone slips up some times."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
Monday, April 1
Daily WHUFC News - 1st April 2013
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has lauded Andy Carroll's efforts after his West Bromwich
Albion performance
01.04.2013
Sam Allardyce has tipped Andy Carroll to continue his sensational run of
form after his matchwinning performance against West Bromwich Albion on
Saturday.
The imposing striker had arguably his finest 90 minutes for West Ham United
since joining on loan from Liverpool last August, grabbing the first and
last goals in a 3-1 win. Although Carroll will be forced to miss the meeting
with his parent club on Sunday due to the detail of his loan deal, his
manager believes the quick succession of games to follow will provide a
platform for the 24-year-old to add to his five goals so far this season.
"His confidence will be sky high now he's started to score goals and that
was his first brace for us," Allardyce said. "I think it will kick him on
from here. It will fill him with great confidence and when the next chance
comes along he'll take it like he did his second goal, without thinking
about it. "He made it look so easy. The whole place, instead of erupting,
had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good that goal was
- and then they erupted into huge applause."
Indeed the brace demonstrated Carroll's full range of offensive
capabilities. The first was a trademark powering header from a Gary O'Neil
corner, for which there was ever only going to be one winner, and the second
was a stunning right-footed volley from James Collins' lobbed free-kick. "It
will be great for his confidence. It's not just the headed goal, it's the
volley. He's shown everybody his ability in its full light and his
capabilities of a footballer on the deck. He's got really good feet for a
big lad and really good change of direction. "He can be as good as he wants
to be. I can always make anybody better if they want to get better. It's my
job to support what anybody wants to do if they want to dedicate themselves
to the game. I'll be there for them for as long and as needy as they want to
be. "Everybody's dedication determines how good they want to be, we just
provide the service to produce the best of the ability that they've got."
Carroll has endured something of a stop-start beginning to his West Ham
United career after early hamstring and knee injuries, but his return to
form in recent weeks has coincided with an upturn in the Hammers' results.
After starting the last six fixtures, Carroll has now enjoyed his most
settled run of games since he arrived in east London, and Big Sam says he
can see his sharpness improving with every game. "The first thing was we had
to wait a long time to get him here. That wasn't able to be done because of
the negotiations that continued to be back and forth, back and forth.
Finally we clinched it but we missed a long time that he could have been
with us. Then, with his performance on his first game, I was looking to get
him off and just about to bring Carlton Cole on and he pulls a hamstring. So
he missed a few games. Then he came back and did his knee ligament and
missed some more games. "It was a real stop-start season. But now we're
seeing him game after game after game - and we're seeing the result of that
match fitness. It doesn't matter what you try and do in training. Games
give you that little extra. The match fitness gives you that little extra
bit of ability, of sharpness that we know he's got, and he's showing that
now."
With just six first-team games during February and March, the West Ham
United squad have had to remain professional and concentrate on some hard
work on the Chadwell Heath training pitches to keep their fitness levels up.
Their determination and focus was rewarded as Saturday's meeting with the
Baggies unfolded, and with no-one more so than Carroll. "It's about the
games and staying fit in training. We've had to train the players hard this
month because we've only had three games. We'd had our break in Dubai before
the start of this month. We got dealt the blow of not having the Manchester
United game because of the cup so we were only faced with three games this
month. "So we've had mini pre-seasons over the last few weeks because the
lads haven't had the games we wanted. I think as we've moved on, everyone
has picked up the level of fitness again as we would expect this time of
year. We don't expect our players to produce less physical performances, we
expect them to produce more."
Carroll is likely to start again in the Hammers' next home game, against
table toppers Manchester United, on Wednesday 17 April. Limited tickets
remain, click below to get yours.
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Loan round-up
WHUFC.com
A look at how West Ham United's loan players fared over the Easter weekend
31.03.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Ravel Morrison catching the eye for Birmingham City.
The 20-year-old midfielder scored the Blues' third goal in their 4-0 romp at
promotion-chasing Crystal Palace on Good Friday, a result that took Lee
Clark's men into the top ten of the npower Championship table. Morrison has
now scored two goals in 20 league games during his loan at the St Andrews
club.
In the same division, Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and
will be hoping to make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the
Reebok Stadium on Tuesday night. Paul McCallum is currently on loan at
npower League 2 side Aldershot Town and they secured a 1-1 draw at Rochdale
on Friday. Hammers youngster McCallum came off the bench in the 65th minute
with his side 1-0 down, but Andy Scott's men recovered to take a point
thanks to Adam Mekki's 73rd minute leveller. The Shots are still stuck at
the foot of the table, however, and will be looking for a much-needed
victory when they host Oxford United on Monday.
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Macca delights in classy finishing
WHUFC.com
Assistant manager Neil McDonald was happy to see the Hammers take their
chances against West Brom
31.03.2013
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' clinical finishing, as three supreme goals
propelled them to a comfortable 3-1 Barclays Premier League win over West
Bromwich Albion. Andy Carroll netted for the third home game in succession,
as he thumped a first-half header past Ben Foster, before guiding home a
brilliant volley with ten minutes to play. In the intervening minutes, Gary
O'Neil swept home from the edge of the box, as Sam Allardyce's side
dominated proceedings against the Baggies. For Macca, there were no shortage
of reasons to be cheerful, not least the sight of a plan coming good and
reaping three precious points.
"We pressed them really, really well, tried to play high up the pitch and
put them under pressure," he explained. "That pressure paid off in the end
with the goals that we scored. It's pleasing when you have a game plan and
that works out and you carve out the chances as a result. We've been extra
clinical today, more so than we have been in the past, so that's another
pleasing aspect for us. "We created lots of chances today and fortunately we
scored three, which gave us a bit of a breather. We're a little disappointed
to concede, because we wanted to keep a clean sheet as well. But overall I
think the performance was really, really good and to score three goals
against a top-half team is excellent. "We've been looking up all the time.
You have to win your home games and pick up the odd point away from home,
which we did at Stoke. But winning those home games and keeping the
supporters happy is what we're trying to do. The home form is certainly
doing that, that's for sure."
The Hammers faithful were treated to three goals of the very highest quality
and McDonald was only too glad to pay tribute to the two goalscorers, both
of whom are enjoying a fine end to campaign. Though Carroll will be
ineligible for next weekend's trip to parent club Liverpool, Macca sees it
as the perfect opportunity for someone else to stake a claim. "That's a
couple of really good games Andy has got under his belt now and the goals
should give him confidence. When you're on the move inside the box it gives
you a chance to score goals and he has taken them very well. Another good
all round performance and that's what we've been looking for and that's
exactly what we want from the last eight games. "It's a shame that Andy
can't play at Liverpool, but they are the rules. It will give someone else a
chance and they will be coming into a team that's full of confidence after a
good win against a top-half Premier League team. "Gary's goal was brilliant.
He has been doing a little bit of that in training and it was no fluke. He
certainly aimed for that far corner. He has been playing well. He is keeping
the ball for us and passing the ball well to set us off on a forward motion.
That's why he's in the team. While West Ham were certainly impressive in
front of the opposition's goal, Jussi Jaaskelainen's contribution at the
other end was every bit as valuable, a point not lost on assistant boss
McDonald.
"Over the last six or seven games Jussi has been magnificent. He has been
making important saves which is great, and with him in that fine form it
gives us a chance to win games and certainly not lose them. Hopefully he can
keep that going until the end of the season."
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Late loss for Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home league defeat by
Reading on Sunday
31.03.2013
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division defeat by Reading on Sunday. The Hammers took the
lead through Kelley Blanchflower's 29th-minute goal, only for Rebecca Jane
to level with nine minutes remaining and Cheryl Williams to complete the
turn-around in the second minute of added time. The defeat all but ends
Julia Setford's side's hopes of winning the title. West Ham are now 13
points behind leaders Millwall Lionesses with six matches remaining.
Millwall have just three games to play, but the odds on the Hammers
overhauling their local rivals have lengthened. West Ham will hope to get
back to winning ways when they host bottom side Queens Park Rangers at
Thurrock FC's Ship Lane stadium on Sunday 7 April, kick-off 2pm.
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Another U-turn from Hearn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn has changed his mind yet again about the future of the Olympic
Stadium and has decided to fight on if, as expected, the forthcoming
Judicial Review into the award proceedings goes against him. Hearn's latest
of many U-turns appears to have been prompted by an overheard conversation
between Hammers fans debating on who should be honoured by statues in the
remodelled Olympic Park. Hearn said: "They were discussing statues to Bobby
Moore, Billy Bonds and the like and that annoyed me. "With the entrance to
the park only a few inches away from the Matchroom Stadium [Brisbane Road –
Ed] I thought there ought to be some representation of some of the greats
from Leyton/Clapton history. Like Laurie Cunningham. And that other guy."
And now Hearn's tactics to prevent West Ham United taking over the stadium
appear to have hit a new low. "We'll need funds to keep going if the
Judicial Review goes against us," Hearn announced. "So we'll be releasing a
re-recorded version of "Snooker Loopy" called "Olympic Loopy" as a
fund-raising single.
"Chas & Dave are working on the revised lyrics and we've already got
agreement from Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and some of the cast of "The Only Way
Is Essex" to appear on it once the backing tracks are ready. "With such a
cast of much-loved celebrities on board our cause will receive massive
publicity and a multi-platinum selling single will raise enough for us to
keep the argument alive for another year or two."
A club spokesman for West Ham United was suitably unimpressed with the
announcement. "I didn't buy the last one and we won't be letting Jeremy
[Nicholas] play it before matches, that's for sure."
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Di Canio returns - as Sunderland boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers favourite Paolo Di Canio has been appointed as the new
manager of Premier League strugglers Sunderland. The 44-year-old Italian was
confirmed tonight as the shock replacement for Martin O'Neill, who was fired
less than 24 hours ago following the Black Cats' recent slump in form and
slide towards the relegation zone. Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short, speaking
via statement on the the club's website, said: "Paolo is hugely enthused by
the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to
get started. "The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be
to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status. I think
that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us."
However the appointment of Di Canio has been far from universally welcomed.
Within minutes of his appointment, - local MP David Miliband - a
non-executive director at Sunderland - confirmed that he would be stepping
down from his role. "I wish Sunderland AFC all success in the future. It is
a great institution that does a huge amount for the North East and I wish
the team very well over the next vital seven games," he said. "However, in
the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it right
to step down."
Miliband was of course referring to Di Canio's fascist leanings, which the
Italian has never sought to deny. He counts Benito Mussolini as one of his
idols and proudly displays the former Italian leader's name tatooed on his
arm. The former West Ham forward, who spent four years at the club between
1999 and 2003 begins his quest to save the Black Cats from relegation with a
trip to Stamford Bridge next weekend. Thereafter, Sunderland - who have
taken just three points from their last eight Premier League games - face
Newcastle (a), Everton (h), Aston Villa (a), Stoke (h), Southampton (h) and
Tottenham (a).
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Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A happy Sam Allardyce reflects on the 3-1 win over WBA that edges West Ham
ever closer to Premier League safety. His full post-match press conference
for you exclusively here...
Sam: After a few early jitters it couldn't have gone much better for you
today, could it?
No. I think the only downside was George McCartney's injury which is a big
blow to both us and George, who's only just come back. He did the same
injury, his medial ligaments in his knee which is sad.
The overall performance today and the quality of the goals made it a great
day for us . The players were glad to get back - it's two weeks since
Chelsea - and show what they could really do again.
The last time we played here we had a fantastic game but ended up losing in
the last minute. This time we've played a fantastic game, scored three
fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win.
The three goals were very different types. The quality of Andy's heading,
the ability of Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy Carroll.
That shows it's not just about his aerial dominance but the overall ability
that Andy has. I don't think you'll see a better goal, a better volley or
better technique than that this season; [ball] over the shoulder, a right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - into the bottom corner.
So a great result for us and a great performance that takes us ever closer
to that safety margin. We're looking forward now to Liverpool away next
week.
Is that the best West Ham have seen of Andy Carroll so far?
I think you'd have to say "yes", because he's put two goals on the end of a
good performance.
I think his good performances have been with us before; the fans have always
appreciated his ability here but he's shown them what he's all about today.
Not just his ability outside the box, but he also showed them his
goalscoring ability inside the box which he's been waiting patiently for.
I hope this is kicking him on to be a regular goalscorer for us in the next
eight games or so and upping his total as much as he can until the end of
the season. He's in a good frame of mind now.
Finally, after a long wait, his match fitness is there which is why I think
you're seeing the performances and the goals you're seeing. We've had to
wait a while for that but finally he's there - and he's enjoying himself,
which s more important than anything else.
Would you like to have him here full time? is there a possbility of that?
I think there's always a possibility you would look at, at the end of the
season. When we get down to budgeting and so on and so forth, and see what
negotiations can or can't be done then you'll have a look at anything and
everything that comes your way.
The end of the season comes and you don't really get a day off before the
bombardment of players' availablility comes your way - the endless texting
and emailing completely overwhelms you. That's why, as a manager, you've got
to delegate that off and filter through those processes.
But we will look at it at the end of the season, when we're safe, and see
what we need to do.
Would you like him to stay? Would you like him here?
I think the answer to that would be "yes", but there are a lot of things
that need to be done between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
the transfer. I think we'll have to wait until the end of the season to see
what we can do.
Is George {McCartney] out for the rest of the season?
I would have thought so. It's a re-occurrence of the same injury which is a
very big disappointment for both him and us. It was so important that we
were 3-0 up when he had to come off as we'd used all our subs. What a blow
it could've been had it been any different.
We're disappointed for George because he's waited so long to get back and
was so eager to get on. We thought "let's give him a little run-out now",
save the lads who had done so well and get the subs on. Sadly, he goes down
with the same injury.
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The crippling cost of club membership
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Eastbourne Hammer
KUMB member Eastbourne Hammer, a Disabled Season Ticket holder has his say
over the club's decision to raise the cost of disabled season tickets by
more than 100 per cent. You may read the story to which EH refers here. I
know that we, as disabled fans, get a fantastic deal at the moment and that
we're very lucky in that. However, I also recognise that life is invariably
tougher and more costly for most disabled people and we need all the help we
can get. West Ham were up there with the very best on that side of things
and for that we were very grateful. Things are getting tougher economically
for everyone and belts need to be tightened. Except for Premier League
football clubs who are about to become even more obscenely wealthy from the
start of the 2013/14 season.
Which is, coincidentally, when the club intend to double the cost of
disabled tickets.
Of course it doesn't say they're doubling the prices, it just explains how
good we've had it, how generous the club are and how we'll now be charged
the same as a standard Band 4 ticket. But we still get our carers let in
with us. You know, those little luxuries who push the chairs of those of us
who can't get there without them. Well, I suppose someone has to keep our
Chairmen in expensive coats and furry hats, not to mention paying the
Nigella Lawson of the footballing world. I suspect few of you will be
bothered by this and many will just think, "well, they had it good anyway" -
but what worries me is not just the fact I'm now pretty much priced out of
more than a handful of games a season, it's why it is being done now.
Just before the move to an expensive, new stadium. Let's face it, disabled
spaces are a lot more costly to factor into a new design than standard
seating. So, our poor, down-on-their-uppers owners have decided the best way
to minimise demands for these tickets is a 'cripple tax'. Make those
b*stards pay for having the audacity to bring their own chairs with them! As
the club's letter says, "we have....avoided any increase for our disabled
fans wherever possible". What it doesn't say is "you're in the way of our
shiny new image, now **** off". But in essence, that's what Ms Brady is
saying to all of us in the 'cheap seats'.
So thank you, West Ham United, for doubling the cost of my visit just as you
get even wealthier. Although because we're disabled no-one will be too
bothered.
After all, we just make the place look messy, don't we?
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West Ham double disabled season ticket cost
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Disabled season ticket holders have reacted angrily to news that the cost of
their season ticket at the Boleyn Ground will more than double next season.
West Ham have written to all disabled season ticket holders to confirm that
from the start of next (2013/14) season, season ticket prices will be
brought in line with Band 4 prices. And that represents an approximate 100
per cent increase for supporters, some of whom took to the KUMB.com forums
today to register their disgust at the huge price hike. "As the father of a
disabled daughter, times are very difficult for all and especially for
disabled people. I would like to see our chairman reconsider this increase,"
said MrMum. Whilst Glory Hunter wrote: "As much as I hate seeing the club
get a kicking (especially in the light of recent events), as someone with a
disabled father I know exactly how tough it is to survive on incapacity."
"Why the club has decided to implement this rise now has sinister
undertones," suggested Gerblatz. "Apparently the club have done this after a
'careful' ticketing review, which suggests it's quite deliberate. "I was
having a conversation this morning with a dad who takes his disabled son
over there. He was saying the increase for him is more like 125 per cent. Do
any fans think that's reasonable? What would be the response to this
ludicrous outrage if this was affecting the majority of fans?"
In their letter to supporters confirming the price hike, attributed to the
club's Disabled Liaison Officer Julie Pidgeon, West Ham wrote: "We have
always kept disabled ticket pricing extremely low for many years ensuring we
have consistently been amongst the cheapest in the Premier League and have
avoided any increases wherever possible.
"Following a careful ticketing review, in particular what we offer compared
to a number of other clubs in the Premier League and the Championship, the
club have made the decision that from the beginning of the 2013/14 season
all disabled match and season tickets will be charged at the cost of 'Band
4' tickets for each category of fixture."
For the current 2012/13 season, Band 4 season tickets were priced at £600
whereas season tickets for disabled fans cost just £290. Based on existing
prices, the price rise represents a 107 per cent increase.
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Sam Allardyce hoping to keep Andy Carroll at West Ham
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:35pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce would like to see Andy Carroll's loan agreement at West Ham
United made permanent at the end of the season. Carroll arrived at Upton
Park last summer on a deal from Liverpool which dictated that he would spend
the entire 2012/13 campaign in the capital. He has struggled with injury and
form at times with the Hammers, but has been firing on all cylinders again
of late and netted a crucial double in a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Allardyce had called on his strikers to start delivering prior to that
fixture, and he has now revealed that he is hoping to wrap up a deal for
Carroll when the transfer window re-opens. He said: "Would I like him here
next season? The answer is yes. "But there are a lot of things that need to
be done. We will look at that at the end of the season. There is always a
possibility. "Andy showed today that he is not just a threat in the air, but
is very good on the ground as well. His volleyed goal was fantastic
technique. "In fact, we scored three fantastic goals. I was delighted with
our display and it moves us closer to the 39 points that will make us safe."
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Andy Carroll hopes his West Ham form will lead to England recall this summer
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:49pm
SSN
Andy Carroll hopes his improved end of season form with West Ham United will
give England boss Roy Hodgson something to think about. Carroll has endured
a tough time since joining the Hammers on loan from Liverpool, but he
terrorised the West Bromwich Albion defence on Saturday and scored two goals
in their 3-1 win. A bullet header and an exquisite volley showed off his
undoubted quality and he hopes to continue impressing to further his claims
in Hodgson's squad for summer friendlies with the Republic of Ireland and
Brazil. "I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been
picked, so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time," Carroll said. "I was putting myself about and got two
goals, so that's what I like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score
goals, so getting two shows that I've got it. "I'm feeling good with the
lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home. "It was
a great win. The lads worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the
three points, so it was a great day."
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Put Carroll back in, Roy
The Sun
By TOM BARCLAY
Published: 7 hrs ago
ROY HODGSON'S bad week at least had a happy ending as he watched Andy
Carroll destroy Albion. The England boss was left scratching his head on
Tuesday after the 1-1 draw in Montenegro left our hopes of World Cup
qualification hanging in the balance. But he would have been delighted with
Carroll's display as the striker at last showed the form that got him on the
plane to Euro 2012 at the last minute. The giant Geordie was back to his
bullying best, terrorising the Baggies defence all afternoon long with his
brute strength. Hodgson's side has been crying out for more options up top.
Carroll, 24, scored a super double — a signature bullet header and an
inch-perfect volley over his shoulder that Lionel Messi would have been
proud of. And team-mate and fellow goalscorer Gary O'Neil, who set up
Carroll's 16th-minute opener, said: "Hopefully Andy can force his way back
into the England squad. "You can hit it from anywhere, it doesn't have to be
a great ball but he makes it his own. He would definitely offer another
dimension. "He's a fantastic player. I think he gets a hard time because
he's a big lad and good in the air. "But he's got fantastic feet, works hard
and sometimes when you're under the cosh you can just bang it up to him.
"He's a great lad. He's done fantastically for us and, hopefully, he can
stay here."
Carroll is inconsistent but on his day — and Saturday was definitely his day
— he is unplayable. But West Ham must consider whether they really want to
part with the £17million required to sign him permanently. Against the meek
and mild partnership of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley at the centre of the
Baggies defence, Carroll had a field day. Steaming into meet O'Neil's
pinpoint corner, the big man thundered a header past the helpless Ben
Foster. O'Neil's delicate chip from outside the box doubled the lead with
half an hour played. And Carroll rounded things off with a cracker. He
watched James Collins' free-kick over his shoulder before gracefully
crashing it into the far corner with his weaker right foot. Graham Dorrans
pulled one back from the penalty spot before Youssouf Mulumbu's brainless
dismissal for kicking the ball at O'Neil in injury time. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce agreed with O'Neil that Carroll would be an asset for his nation.
He said: "Get him in. Even if he's only a sub for Roy, if you want someone
to hold the ball up and bring others into play and relieve the pressure,
he's fantastic. "There's not a lot of choice for Roy with English players
for front men and he's looking better and better. "It would be something
that lifts him and lifts the England squad. "He'll cause any defender at
international level problems if you deliver balls into the box to his feet
or his head."
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Hammer time! West Ham boss backs Andy Carroll for England after brace
against West Brom
The Mirror
31 Mar 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Sam Allardyce has given Roy Hodgson three words of advice on picking Andy
Carroll for England: "Get him in." The Three Lions boss was at Upton Park to
witness the on-loan Liverpool striker cap his best display in a West Ham
shirt with two top-class goals. The club future of Britain's most expensive
player remains uncertain. But the Hammers boss has no doubts about his
international potential. "Get him in, get him in," Allardyce said. "Even if
he's only a sub for Roy. If you want someone to hold the ball up and be a
target man and bring others into play and relieve the pressure, he's
fantastic at the minute. And he is looking better and better. "There's not a
lot of choice for Roy with English players for front men. I think it would
be something that lifts him and lifts the England squad. He shouldn't be
held down by the fact that people might say, like they do with me 'Oh, it's
long-ball'. It's not that. "He's a good hold-up player. He'll cause any
central defender at international level problems if you deliver balls into
the box to his feet or his head. As an alternative, what more could you ask
for?"
Carroll, who won the last of his nine caps against San Marino last October,
said: "I hope to play in every game for England but I haven't been picked,
so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time." Co-chairman David Sullivan says West Ham have an
agreement with Liverpool to sign Carroll at the end of the season. And
Allardyce wants to keep him. But the East London club's pursuit of Ivory
Coast striker Wilfried Bony shows he is not the only option. For most of his
injury-hit season, Carroll has been a let-down. Yet he again looked like the
old Newcastle striker against West Brom. His first goal was a classic
centre-forward's header from a Gary O'Neil corner. And after O'Neil scored
with a fine shot, Carroll secured the win which should ensure West Ham's
Premier League status with a classy finish. James Collins' free-kick was
allowed to drop in the Baggies box and Carroll converted with a superb
volley. "He made it look so easy," said Allardyce. "The whole place, instead
of erupting, had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good
that goal was – and then they erupted into huge applause."
Just desserts: Clarke backs Baggies fans' abuse of Odemwingie
From being serious European contenders, West Brom's season descended into
farce at Upton Park. Peter Odemwingie has gone from feared forward to cult
comedy figure following a previous trip to London and his Twitter rantings.
West Ham fans serenaded the Nigeria striker with the song: 'He went to QPR,
he stayed in his car' as the WBA sub warmed up. But while he got ironic home
applause when he entered the fray, Odemwingie was again abused by his own
fans. He will be sold in the summer - and cannot expect much support till
then. Manager Steve Clarke said: "The fans can react in any way they want."
Odemwingie has been fined for a second time by the club after complaining
about getting left on the bench for their previous four games. It's not
something I would do," said Ben Foster. "Pete has chosen to do it that way
and that's up to him." Fabrice Mulumbu then rivaled Odemwingie for daftness
with his late dismissal when he picked up the ball and kicked it at Gary
O'Neil. "He is silly and has just seen red," Foster added. "In sure it's
something he will look back on in the future and be - little bit ashamed
about. He is not like that. He is a good lad and such a thorough
professional. He is disappointed with himself. Everyone was a bit tired at
the end and he let his emotions show."
Still in eighth place, the Baggies need only three points from their
remaining seven games to equal their record Premier League points haul. But
they will have to improve on their West Ham display where Graeme Dorrans
netted a late penalty. "We are a bit shell-shocked," Foster admitted. "We
just weren't really up for it for some reason."
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has lauded Andy Carroll's efforts after his West Bromwich
Albion performance
01.04.2013
Sam Allardyce has tipped Andy Carroll to continue his sensational run of
form after his matchwinning performance against West Bromwich Albion on
Saturday.
The imposing striker had arguably his finest 90 minutes for West Ham United
since joining on loan from Liverpool last August, grabbing the first and
last goals in a 3-1 win. Although Carroll will be forced to miss the meeting
with his parent club on Sunday due to the detail of his loan deal, his
manager believes the quick succession of games to follow will provide a
platform for the 24-year-old to add to his five goals so far this season.
"His confidence will be sky high now he's started to score goals and that
was his first brace for us," Allardyce said. "I think it will kick him on
from here. It will fill him with great confidence and when the next chance
comes along he'll take it like he did his second goal, without thinking
about it. "He made it look so easy. The whole place, instead of erupting,
had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good that goal was
- and then they erupted into huge applause."
Indeed the brace demonstrated Carroll's full range of offensive
capabilities. The first was a trademark powering header from a Gary O'Neil
corner, for which there was ever only going to be one winner, and the second
was a stunning right-footed volley from James Collins' lobbed free-kick. "It
will be great for his confidence. It's not just the headed goal, it's the
volley. He's shown everybody his ability in its full light and his
capabilities of a footballer on the deck. He's got really good feet for a
big lad and really good change of direction. "He can be as good as he wants
to be. I can always make anybody better if they want to get better. It's my
job to support what anybody wants to do if they want to dedicate themselves
to the game. I'll be there for them for as long and as needy as they want to
be. "Everybody's dedication determines how good they want to be, we just
provide the service to produce the best of the ability that they've got."
Carroll has endured something of a stop-start beginning to his West Ham
United career after early hamstring and knee injuries, but his return to
form in recent weeks has coincided with an upturn in the Hammers' results.
After starting the last six fixtures, Carroll has now enjoyed his most
settled run of games since he arrived in east London, and Big Sam says he
can see his sharpness improving with every game. "The first thing was we had
to wait a long time to get him here. That wasn't able to be done because of
the negotiations that continued to be back and forth, back and forth.
Finally we clinched it but we missed a long time that he could have been
with us. Then, with his performance on his first game, I was looking to get
him off and just about to bring Carlton Cole on and he pulls a hamstring. So
he missed a few games. Then he came back and did his knee ligament and
missed some more games. "It was a real stop-start season. But now we're
seeing him game after game after game - and we're seeing the result of that
match fitness. It doesn't matter what you try and do in training. Games
give you that little extra. The match fitness gives you that little extra
bit of ability, of sharpness that we know he's got, and he's showing that
now."
With just six first-team games during February and March, the West Ham
United squad have had to remain professional and concentrate on some hard
work on the Chadwell Heath training pitches to keep their fitness levels up.
Their determination and focus was rewarded as Saturday's meeting with the
Baggies unfolded, and with no-one more so than Carroll. "It's about the
games and staying fit in training. We've had to train the players hard this
month because we've only had three games. We'd had our break in Dubai before
the start of this month. We got dealt the blow of not having the Manchester
United game because of the cup so we were only faced with three games this
month. "So we've had mini pre-seasons over the last few weeks because the
lads haven't had the games we wanted. I think as we've moved on, everyone
has picked up the level of fitness again as we would expect this time of
year. We don't expect our players to produce less physical performances, we
expect them to produce more."
Carroll is likely to start again in the Hammers' next home game, against
table toppers Manchester United, on Wednesday 17 April. Limited tickets
remain, click below to get yours.
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Loan round-up
WHUFC.com
A look at how West Ham United's loan players fared over the Easter weekend
31.03.2013
West Ham United's loan players were involved in a busy programme over the
Easter weekend, with Ravel Morrison catching the eye for Birmingham City.
The 20-year-old midfielder scored the Blues' third goal in their 4-0 romp at
promotion-chasing Crystal Palace on Good Friday, a result that took Lee
Clark's men into the top ten of the npower Championship table. Morrison has
now scored two goals in 20 league games during his loan at the St Andrews
club.
In the same division, Rob Hall linked up with Bolton Wanderers last week and
will be hoping to make his debut when they take on Huddersfield Town at the
Reebok Stadium on Tuesday night. Paul McCallum is currently on loan at
npower League 2 side Aldershot Town and they secured a 1-1 draw at Rochdale
on Friday. Hammers youngster McCallum came off the bench in the 65th minute
with his side 1-0 down, but Andy Scott's men recovered to take a point
thanks to Adam Mekki's 73rd minute leveller. The Shots are still stuck at
the foot of the table, however, and will be looking for a much-needed
victory when they host Oxford United on Monday.
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Macca delights in classy finishing
WHUFC.com
Assistant manager Neil McDonald was happy to see the Hammers take their
chances against West Brom
31.03.2013
Neil McDonald hailed the Hammers' clinical finishing, as three supreme goals
propelled them to a comfortable 3-1 Barclays Premier League win over West
Bromwich Albion. Andy Carroll netted for the third home game in succession,
as he thumped a first-half header past Ben Foster, before guiding home a
brilliant volley with ten minutes to play. In the intervening minutes, Gary
O'Neil swept home from the edge of the box, as Sam Allardyce's side
dominated proceedings against the Baggies. For Macca, there were no shortage
of reasons to be cheerful, not least the sight of a plan coming good and
reaping three precious points.
"We pressed them really, really well, tried to play high up the pitch and
put them under pressure," he explained. "That pressure paid off in the end
with the goals that we scored. It's pleasing when you have a game plan and
that works out and you carve out the chances as a result. We've been extra
clinical today, more so than we have been in the past, so that's another
pleasing aspect for us. "We created lots of chances today and fortunately we
scored three, which gave us a bit of a breather. We're a little disappointed
to concede, because we wanted to keep a clean sheet as well. But overall I
think the performance was really, really good and to score three goals
against a top-half team is excellent. "We've been looking up all the time.
You have to win your home games and pick up the odd point away from home,
which we did at Stoke. But winning those home games and keeping the
supporters happy is what we're trying to do. The home form is certainly
doing that, that's for sure."
The Hammers faithful were treated to three goals of the very highest quality
and McDonald was only too glad to pay tribute to the two goalscorers, both
of whom are enjoying a fine end to campaign. Though Carroll will be
ineligible for next weekend's trip to parent club Liverpool, Macca sees it
as the perfect opportunity for someone else to stake a claim. "That's a
couple of really good games Andy has got under his belt now and the goals
should give him confidence. When you're on the move inside the box it gives
you a chance to score goals and he has taken them very well. Another good
all round performance and that's what we've been looking for and that's
exactly what we want from the last eight games. "It's a shame that Andy
can't play at Liverpool, but they are the rules. It will give someone else a
chance and they will be coming into a team that's full of confidence after a
good win against a top-half Premier League team. "Gary's goal was brilliant.
He has been doing a little bit of that in training and it was no fluke. He
certainly aimed for that far corner. He has been playing well. He is keeping
the ball for us and passing the ball well to set us off on a forward motion.
That's why he's in the team. While West Ham were certainly impressive in
front of the opposition's goal, Jussi Jaaskelainen's contribution at the
other end was every bit as valuable, a point not lost on assistant boss
McDonald.
"Over the last six or seven games Jussi has been magnificent. He has been
making important saves which is great, and with him in that fine form it
gives us a chance to win games and certainly not lose them. Hopefully he can
keep that going until the end of the season."
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Late loss for Ladies
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home league defeat by
Reading on Sunday
31.03.2013
West Ham United Ladies suffered an agonising 2-1 home FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division defeat by Reading on Sunday. The Hammers took the
lead through Kelley Blanchflower's 29th-minute goal, only for Rebecca Jane
to level with nine minutes remaining and Cheryl Williams to complete the
turn-around in the second minute of added time. The defeat all but ends
Julia Setford's side's hopes of winning the title. West Ham are now 13
points behind leaders Millwall Lionesses with six matches remaining.
Millwall have just three games to play, but the odds on the Hammers
overhauling their local rivals have lengthened. West Ham will hope to get
back to winning ways when they host bottom side Queens Park Rangers at
Thurrock FC's Ship Lane stadium on Sunday 7 April, kick-off 2pm.
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Another U-turn from Hearn
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 1st April 2013
By: Staff Writer No.3
Barry Hearn has changed his mind yet again about the future of the Olympic
Stadium and has decided to fight on if, as expected, the forthcoming
Judicial Review into the award proceedings goes against him. Hearn's latest
of many U-turns appears to have been prompted by an overheard conversation
between Hammers fans debating on who should be honoured by statues in the
remodelled Olympic Park. Hearn said: "They were discussing statues to Bobby
Moore, Billy Bonds and the like and that annoyed me. "With the entrance to
the park only a few inches away from the Matchroom Stadium [Brisbane Road –
Ed] I thought there ought to be some representation of some of the greats
from Leyton/Clapton history. Like Laurie Cunningham. And that other guy."
And now Hearn's tactics to prevent West Ham United taking over the stadium
appear to have hit a new low. "We'll need funds to keep going if the
Judicial Review goes against us," Hearn announced. "So we'll be releasing a
re-recorded version of "Snooker Loopy" called "Olympic Loopy" as a
fund-raising single.
"Chas & Dave are working on the revised lyrics and we've already got
agreement from Sean Bean, Piers Morgan and some of the cast of "The Only Way
Is Essex" to appear on it once the backing tracks are ready. "With such a
cast of much-loved celebrities on board our cause will receive massive
publicity and a multi-platinum selling single will raise enough for us to
keep the argument alive for another year or two."
A club spokesman for West Ham United was suitably unimpressed with the
announcement. "I didn't buy the last one and we won't be letting Jeremy
[Nicholas] play it before matches, that's for sure."
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Di Canio returns - as Sunderland boss
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Former Hammers favourite Paolo Di Canio has been appointed as the new
manager of Premier League strugglers Sunderland. The 44-year-old Italian was
confirmed tonight as the shock replacement for Martin O'Neill, who was fired
less than 24 hours ago following the Black Cats' recent slump in form and
slide towards the relegation zone. Sunderland Chairman Ellis Short, speaking
via statement on the the club's website, said: "Paolo is hugely enthused by
the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to
get started. "The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be
to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status. I think
that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us."
However the appointment of Di Canio has been far from universally welcomed.
Within minutes of his appointment, - local MP David Miliband - a
non-executive director at Sunderland - confirmed that he would be stepping
down from his role. "I wish Sunderland AFC all success in the future. It is
a great institution that does a huge amount for the North East and I wish
the team very well over the next vital seven games," he said. "However, in
the light of the new manager's past political statements, I think it right
to step down."
Miliband was of course referring to Di Canio's fascist leanings, which the
Italian has never sought to deny. He counts Benito Mussolini as one of his
idols and proudly displays the former Italian leader's name tatooed on his
arm. The former West Ham forward, who spent four years at the club between
1999 and 2003 begins his quest to save the Black Cats from relegation with a
trip to Stamford Bridge next weekend. Thereafter, Sunderland - who have
taken just three points from their last eight Premier League games - face
Newcastle (a), Everton (h), Aston Villa (a), Stoke (h), Southampton (h) and
Tottenham (a).
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Allardyce on... West Bromwich Albion
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
A happy Sam Allardyce reflects on the 3-1 win over WBA that edges West Ham
ever closer to Premier League safety. His full post-match press conference
for you exclusively here...
Sam: After a few early jitters it couldn't have gone much better for you
today, could it?
No. I think the only downside was George McCartney's injury which is a big
blow to both us and George, who's only just come back. He did the same
injury, his medial ligaments in his knee which is sad.
The overall performance today and the quality of the goals made it a great
day for us . The players were glad to get back - it's two weeks since
Chelsea - and show what they could really do again.
The last time we played here we had a fantastic game but ended up losing in
the last minute. This time we've played a fantastic game, scored three
fantastic goals and got a thoroughly deserved win.
The three goals were very different types. The quality of Andy's heading,
the ability of Gary O'Neil with a delicate chip and of course the
outstanding volley from Andy Carroll.
That shows it's not just about his aerial dominance but the overall ability
that Andy has. I don't think you'll see a better goal, a better volley or
better technique than that this season; [ball] over the shoulder, a right
foot volley - which is his weaker foot - into the bottom corner.
So a great result for us and a great performance that takes us ever closer
to that safety margin. We're looking forward now to Liverpool away next
week.
Is that the best West Ham have seen of Andy Carroll so far?
I think you'd have to say "yes", because he's put two goals on the end of a
good performance.
I think his good performances have been with us before; the fans have always
appreciated his ability here but he's shown them what he's all about today.
Not just his ability outside the box, but he also showed them his
goalscoring ability inside the box which he's been waiting patiently for.
I hope this is kicking him on to be a regular goalscorer for us in the next
eight games or so and upping his total as much as he can until the end of
the season. He's in a good frame of mind now.
Finally, after a long wait, his match fitness is there which is why I think
you're seeing the performances and the goals you're seeing. We've had to
wait a while for that but finally he's there - and he's enjoying himself,
which s more important than anything else.
Would you like to have him here full time? is there a possbility of that?
I think there's always a possibility you would look at, at the end of the
season. When we get down to budgeting and so on and so forth, and see what
negotiations can or can't be done then you'll have a look at anything and
everything that comes your way.
The end of the season comes and you don't really get a day off before the
bombardment of players' availablility comes your way - the endless texting
and emailing completely overwhelms you. That's why, as a manager, you've got
to delegate that off and filter through those processes.
But we will look at it at the end of the season, when we're safe, and see
what we need to do.
Would you like him to stay? Would you like him here?
I think the answer to that would be "yes", but there are a lot of things
that need to be done between now and then to make sure we can try and pursue
the transfer. I think we'll have to wait until the end of the season to see
what we can do.
Is George {McCartney] out for the rest of the season?
I would have thought so. It's a re-occurrence of the same injury which is a
very big disappointment for both him and us. It was so important that we
were 3-0 up when he had to come off as we'd used all our subs. What a blow
it could've been had it been any different.
We're disappointed for George because he's waited so long to get back and
was so eager to get on. We thought "let's give him a little run-out now",
save the lads who had done so well and get the subs on. Sadly, he goes down
with the same injury.
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The crippling cost of club membership
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Eastbourne Hammer
KUMB member Eastbourne Hammer, a Disabled Season Ticket holder has his say
over the club's decision to raise the cost of disabled season tickets by
more than 100 per cent. You may read the story to which EH refers here. I
know that we, as disabled fans, get a fantastic deal at the moment and that
we're very lucky in that. However, I also recognise that life is invariably
tougher and more costly for most disabled people and we need all the help we
can get. West Ham were up there with the very best on that side of things
and for that we were very grateful. Things are getting tougher economically
for everyone and belts need to be tightened. Except for Premier League
football clubs who are about to become even more obscenely wealthy from the
start of the 2013/14 season.
Which is, coincidentally, when the club intend to double the cost of
disabled tickets.
Of course it doesn't say they're doubling the prices, it just explains how
good we've had it, how generous the club are and how we'll now be charged
the same as a standard Band 4 ticket. But we still get our carers let in
with us. You know, those little luxuries who push the chairs of those of us
who can't get there without them. Well, I suppose someone has to keep our
Chairmen in expensive coats and furry hats, not to mention paying the
Nigella Lawson of the footballing world. I suspect few of you will be
bothered by this and many will just think, "well, they had it good anyway" -
but what worries me is not just the fact I'm now pretty much priced out of
more than a handful of games a season, it's why it is being done now.
Just before the move to an expensive, new stadium. Let's face it, disabled
spaces are a lot more costly to factor into a new design than standard
seating. So, our poor, down-on-their-uppers owners have decided the best way
to minimise demands for these tickets is a 'cripple tax'. Make those
b*stards pay for having the audacity to bring their own chairs with them! As
the club's letter says, "we have....avoided any increase for our disabled
fans wherever possible". What it doesn't say is "you're in the way of our
shiny new image, now **** off". But in essence, that's what Ms Brady is
saying to all of us in the 'cheap seats'.
So thank you, West Ham United, for doubling the cost of my visit just as you
get even wealthier. Although because we're disabled no-one will be too
bothered.
After all, we just make the place look messy, don't we?
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West Ham double disabled season ticket cost
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 31st March 2013
By: Staff Writer
Disabled season ticket holders have reacted angrily to news that the cost of
their season ticket at the Boleyn Ground will more than double next season.
West Ham have written to all disabled season ticket holders to confirm that
from the start of next (2013/14) season, season ticket prices will be
brought in line with Band 4 prices. And that represents an approximate 100
per cent increase for supporters, some of whom took to the KUMB.com forums
today to register their disgust at the huge price hike. "As the father of a
disabled daughter, times are very difficult for all and especially for
disabled people. I would like to see our chairman reconsider this increase,"
said MrMum. Whilst Glory Hunter wrote: "As much as I hate seeing the club
get a kicking (especially in the light of recent events), as someone with a
disabled father I know exactly how tough it is to survive on incapacity."
"Why the club has decided to implement this rise now has sinister
undertones," suggested Gerblatz. "Apparently the club have done this after a
'careful' ticketing review, which suggests it's quite deliberate. "I was
having a conversation this morning with a dad who takes his disabled son
over there. He was saying the increase for him is more like 125 per cent. Do
any fans think that's reasonable? What would be the response to this
ludicrous outrage if this was affecting the majority of fans?"
In their letter to supporters confirming the price hike, attributed to the
club's Disabled Liaison Officer Julie Pidgeon, West Ham wrote: "We have
always kept disabled ticket pricing extremely low for many years ensuring we
have consistently been amongst the cheapest in the Premier League and have
avoided any increases wherever possible.
"Following a careful ticketing review, in particular what we offer compared
to a number of other clubs in the Premier League and the Championship, the
club have made the decision that from the beginning of the 2013/14 season
all disabled match and season tickets will be charged at the cost of 'Band
4' tickets for each category of fixture."
For the current 2012/13 season, Band 4 season tickets were priced at £600
whereas season tickets for disabled fans cost just £290. Based on existing
prices, the price rise represents a 107 per cent increase.
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Sam Allardyce hoping to keep Andy Carroll at West Ham
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:35pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce would like to see Andy Carroll's loan agreement at West Ham
United made permanent at the end of the season. Carroll arrived at Upton
Park last summer on a deal from Liverpool which dictated that he would spend
the entire 2012/13 campaign in the capital. He has struggled with injury and
form at times with the Hammers, but has been firing on all cylinders again
of late and netted a crucial double in a 3-1 victory over West Bromwich
Albion on Saturday.
Allardyce had called on his strikers to start delivering prior to that
fixture, and he has now revealed that he is hoping to wrap up a deal for
Carroll when the transfer window re-opens. He said: "Would I like him here
next season? The answer is yes. "But there are a lot of things that need to
be done. We will look at that at the end of the season. There is always a
possibility. "Andy showed today that he is not just a threat in the air, but
is very good on the ground as well. His volleyed goal was fantastic
technique. "In fact, we scored three fantastic goals. I was delighted with
our display and it moves us closer to the 39 points that will make us safe."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Andy Carroll hopes his West Ham form will lead to England recall this summer
Last Updated: March 31, 2013 2:49pm
SSN
Andy Carroll hopes his improved end of season form with West Ham United will
give England boss Roy Hodgson something to think about. Carroll has endured
a tough time since joining the Hammers on loan from Liverpool, but he
terrorised the West Bromwich Albion defence on Saturday and scored two goals
in their 3-1 win. A bullet header and an exquisite volley showed off his
undoubted quality and he hopes to continue impressing to further his claims
in Hodgson's squad for summer friendlies with the Republic of Ireland and
Brazil. "I hope to play in every game for England but I've haven't been
picked, so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time," Carroll said. "I was putting myself about and got two
goals, so that's what I like to think I'm about. Obviously I like to score
goals, so getting two shows that I've got it. "I'm feeling good with the
lads and everyone is coming together and we're playing well at home. "It was
a great win. The lads worked hard and I got my two goals and we got the
three points, so it was a great day."
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Put Carroll back in, Roy
The Sun
By TOM BARCLAY
Published: 7 hrs ago
ROY HODGSON'S bad week at least had a happy ending as he watched Andy
Carroll destroy Albion. The England boss was left scratching his head on
Tuesday after the 1-1 draw in Montenegro left our hopes of World Cup
qualification hanging in the balance. But he would have been delighted with
Carroll's display as the striker at last showed the form that got him on the
plane to Euro 2012 at the last minute. The giant Geordie was back to his
bullying best, terrorising the Baggies defence all afternoon long with his
brute strength. Hodgson's side has been crying out for more options up top.
Carroll, 24, scored a super double — a signature bullet header and an
inch-perfect volley over his shoulder that Lionel Messi would have been
proud of. And team-mate and fellow goalscorer Gary O'Neil, who set up
Carroll's 16th-minute opener, said: "Hopefully Andy can force his way back
into the England squad. "You can hit it from anywhere, it doesn't have to be
a great ball but he makes it his own. He would definitely offer another
dimension. "He's a fantastic player. I think he gets a hard time because
he's a big lad and good in the air. "But he's got fantastic feet, works hard
and sometimes when you're under the cosh you can just bang it up to him.
"He's a great lad. He's done fantastically for us and, hopefully, he can
stay here."
Carroll is inconsistent but on his day — and Saturday was definitely his day
— he is unplayable. But West Ham must consider whether they really want to
part with the £17million required to sign him permanently. Against the meek
and mild partnership of Jonas Olsson and Gareth McAuley at the centre of the
Baggies defence, Carroll had a field day. Steaming into meet O'Neil's
pinpoint corner, the big man thundered a header past the helpless Ben
Foster. O'Neil's delicate chip from outside the box doubled the lead with
half an hour played. And Carroll rounded things off with a cracker. He
watched James Collins' free-kick over his shoulder before gracefully
crashing it into the far corner with his weaker right foot. Graham Dorrans
pulled one back from the penalty spot before Youssouf Mulumbu's brainless
dismissal for kicking the ball at O'Neil in injury time. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce agreed with O'Neil that Carroll would be an asset for his nation.
He said: "Get him in. Even if he's only a sub for Roy, if you want someone
to hold the ball up and bring others into play and relieve the pressure,
he's fantastic. "There's not a lot of choice for Roy with English players
for front men and he's looking better and better. "It would be something
that lifts him and lifts the England squad. "He'll cause any defender at
international level problems if you deliver balls into the box to his feet
or his head."
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Hammer time! West Ham boss backs Andy Carroll for England after brace
against West Brom
The Mirror
31 Mar 2013 22:30
Steve Bardens
Sam Allardyce has given Roy Hodgson three words of advice on picking Andy
Carroll for England: "Get him in." The Three Lions boss was at Upton Park to
witness the on-loan Liverpool striker cap his best display in a West Ham
shirt with two top-class goals. The club future of Britain's most expensive
player remains uncertain. But the Hammers boss has no doubts about his
international potential. "Get him in, get him in," Allardyce said. "Even if
he's only a sub for Roy. If you want someone to hold the ball up and be a
target man and bring others into play and relieve the pressure, he's
fantastic at the minute. And he is looking better and better. "There's not a
lot of choice for Roy with English players for front men. I think it would
be something that lifts him and lifts the England squad. He shouldn't be
held down by the fact that people might say, like they do with me 'Oh, it's
long-ball'. It's not that. "He's a good hold-up player. He'll cause any
central defender at international level problems if you deliver balls into
the box to his feet or his head. As an alternative, what more could you ask
for?"
Carroll, who won the last of his nine caps against San Marino last October,
said: "I hope to play in every game for England but I haven't been picked,
so I've just got to work hard here at West Ham and hopefully I'll be
involved next time." Co-chairman David Sullivan says West Ham have an
agreement with Liverpool to sign Carroll at the end of the season. And
Allardyce wants to keep him. But the East London club's pursuit of Ivory
Coast striker Wilfried Bony shows he is not the only option. For most of his
injury-hit season, Carroll has been a let-down. Yet he again looked like the
old Newcastle striker against West Brom. His first goal was a classic
centre-forward's header from a Gary O'Neil corner. And after O'Neil scored
with a fine shot, Carroll secured the win which should ensure West Ham's
Premier League status with a classy finish. James Collins' free-kick was
allowed to drop in the Baggies box and Carroll converted with a superb
volley. "He made it look so easy," said Allardyce. "The whole place, instead
of erupting, had a moment of silence because they couldn't believe how good
that goal was – and then they erupted into huge applause."
Just desserts: Clarke backs Baggies fans' abuse of Odemwingie
From being serious European contenders, West Brom's season descended into
farce at Upton Park. Peter Odemwingie has gone from feared forward to cult
comedy figure following a previous trip to London and his Twitter rantings.
West Ham fans serenaded the Nigeria striker with the song: 'He went to QPR,
he stayed in his car' as the WBA sub warmed up. But while he got ironic home
applause when he entered the fray, Odemwingie was again abused by his own
fans. He will be sold in the summer - and cannot expect much support till
then. Manager Steve Clarke said: "The fans can react in any way they want."
Odemwingie has been fined for a second time by the club after complaining
about getting left on the bench for their previous four games. It's not
something I would do," said Ben Foster. "Pete has chosen to do it that way
and that's up to him." Fabrice Mulumbu then rivaled Odemwingie for daftness
with his late dismissal when he picked up the ball and kicked it at Gary
O'Neil. "He is silly and has just seen red," Foster added. "In sure it's
something he will look back on in the future and be - little bit ashamed
about. He is not like that. He is a good lad and such a thorough
professional. He is disappointed with himself. Everyone was a bit tired at
the end and he let his emotions show."
Still in eighth place, the Baggies need only three points from their
remaining seven games to equal their record Premier League points haul. But
they will have to improve on their West Ham display where Graeme Dorrans
netted a late penalty. "We are a bit shell-shocked," Foster admitted. "We
just weren't really up for it for some reason."
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