Southampton match preview
WHUFC.com
All the need-to-know information ahead of Saturday's match against
Southampton
21.02.2014
WEST HAM UNITED v SOUTHAMPTON
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
SATURDAY 22 FEBRUARY 2014
KICK-OFF: 3PM
REFEREE: MARK CLATTENBURG
FULL AUDIO COMMENTARY - WEST HAM TV
Match Sponsor
Introduction
• West Ham United take to the Boleyn Ground pitch on Saturday afternoon
looking to record their fourth consecutive win in the Barclays Premier
League.
• An unbeaten run spanning the last four matches has included a draw at
Chelsea, home wins against Norwich City and Swansea City and a success on
the road against Aston Villa.
• The three wins have all come courtesy of a 2-0 scoreline and have taken
the Hammers up to eleventh place in the league with 28 points from their 26
games.
• If West Ham keep Southampton out on Saturday it will be their fifth clean
sheet in a row, equalling a club record which has stood since 1985.
• A home win would take Sam Allardyce's side to just eight points behind the
Saints, who could open up 14-point gap between the sides with three points
in east London.
• The visitors currently occupy eighth place in the Premier League and can
move level on points with Manchester United if they win on Saturday, if only
for a few hours with the Red Devils playing in the late kick-off.
• Mauricio Pochettino's side are currently on a run of six games without
defeat in the league, although they exited the FA Cup with Budweiser last
time out, losing 1-0 away to Sunderland in the fifth round.
• The Saints are three games unbeaten away from home in the league, with a
draw against Sunderland and wins against Fulham and Hull City contributing
to the run.
• Last time out in the league the south coast outfit earned a 1-0 win over
the Tigers at the KC Stadium.
• A period of applause will be held prior to the match to honour the memory
of England legend Sir Tom Finney, who died last Friday at the age of 91.
Team news
West Ham United
• Andy Carroll completes the final game of his three-match suspension
against the Saints following his red card against Swansea City.
• Joey O'Brien also misses out as he continues his recovery from a
dislocated shoulder sustained against Chelsea.
Southampton
• Saints defender Jos Hooiveld misses the match at the Boleyn Ground with an
eye injury.
• Dejan Lovren and Gaston Ramirez may return to the squad after they both
suffered injuries in their league fixture with Sunderland.
Last time out
West Ham United 2-0 Norwich City
Barclays Premier League
Tuesday 11 February 2014
West Ham United: Adrian, Demel, McCartney, Collins, Tomkins, Taylor
(Nocerino 77), Noble, Nolan, Jarvis (Diame 61), Downing, C.Cole (Boriello
45)
Subs not used: Jaaskelainen, Armero, Reid, Collison
Goals: Collins 84, Diame 90
Sunderland 1-0 Southampton
FA Cup with Budweiser fifth round
Saturday 15 February 2014
Southampton: Davis, Clyne, Shaw, Hooiveld, Yoshida, Wanyama, Ward-Prowse
(Schneiderlin 62), Davis, Lambert, Lallana (McQueen 82), Do Prado (Rodriguez
62)
Subs not used: Gazzaniga, Chambers, Cork, Fonte
Previous meeting
Jussi Jaaskelainen was the hero as the West Ham 'keeper made a string of
fine saves to deny Southampton at St Mary's. The flying Finn kept out
efforts from Dani Osvaldo, Morgan Schneiderlin and Rickie Lambert before
James Collins ballooned the Hammers' best chance of the game over the bar in
the closing minutes as the game ended in a stalemate.
Southampton 0-0 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
15 September 2013
Southampton: Boruc, Clyne, Fonte, Lovren, Shaw (Chambers 77), Wanyama,
Schneiderlin, Lallana (Ward-Prowse 72), Rodriguez, Osvaldo, Lambert
Subs not used: K.Davis, S.Davis, Ramírez, Guly, Hooiveld
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Demel (Rat 61), O'Brien, Collins, Reid,
Noble, Nolan, Diame, Morrison (Taylor 77), Jarvis, Maiga (Vaz Te 68)
Subs not used: Adrian, Tomkins, Collison, Lee
Last six meetings
(Barclays Premier League unless stated)
15 September 2013 - Southampton 0-0 West Ham United
13 April 2013 - Southampton 1-1 West Ham United
20 October 2012 - West Ham United 4-1 Southampton
14 February 2012 - West Ham United 1-1 Southampton (Championship)
18 October 2011 - Southampton 1-0 West Ham United (Championship)
5 April 2003 - Southampton 1-1 West Ham United
Overall record v Southampton (all competitions) W 37 D 29 L 30
Ten-year records
West Ham United
2012/13 Premier League 10th
2011/12 Championship 3rd (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs)
2010/11 Premier League 20th (relegated to Championship)
2009/10 Premier League 17th
2008/09 Premier League 9th
2007/08 Premier League 10th
2006/07 Premier League 15th
2005/06 Premier League 9th
2004/05 Championship 6th (promoted to Premier League via Play-Offs)
2003/04 Championship 4th
Southampton
2012/13 Premier League 14th
2011/12 Championship 2nd (promoted to Premier League)
2010/11 League One 2nd (promoted to Championship)
2009/10 League One 7th
2008/09 Championship 23rd (relegated to League One)
2007/08 Championship 20th
2006/07 Championship 6th
2005/06 Championship 12th
2004/05 Premier League 20th (relegated to Championship)
2003/04 Premier League 12th
Old Boys
• Former Scotland international Christian Dailly spent two months on loan at
Southampton from West Ham United during the 2007/08 season, making eleven
appearances for the Saints.
• One-time Israel midfielder Eyal Berkovic spent two seasons with West Ham
United between 1997 and 1999. Prior to that, Berkovic spent the 1996/97
season on loan at Southampton from Israeli side Maccabi Haifa, scoring twice
in a famous 6-3 Premier League victory over Manchester United at The Dell.
• Forward David Connolly joined West Ham United from Wimbledon for £285,000
in August 2003. The Republic of Ireland striker scored 14 goals in 48 games
for the club, making his final Hammers appearance in the 2004 Championship
Play-Off final defeat by Crystal Palace. Connolly left St Mary's in summer
2012 after three seasons with Southampton, during which time he won two
promotions.
• West Ham United's all-time leading goalscorer Vic Watson moved to
Southampton after 15 seasons as a Hammer in 1935. Watson would spend the
1935/36 season at The Dell, scoring 14 goals in 36 appearances to finish as
the Saints' leading goalscorer in Division Two before retiring in the summer
of 1936 at the age of 38.
• The following players also wore the colours of both West Ham United and
Southampton: William Adams, Wayne Bridge, Alistair Campbell, Frank Costello,
Iain Dowie, Jack Foster, Horace Glover, Richard Hall, Jimmy Harris, Fred
Harrison, George Kay (manager), Joe Kirkup, George Kitchen, Alex McDonald,
Alan Pardew (manager) Walter Pollard, Albert Roles, Robbie Slater, David
Speedie and Arthur Wilson.
Background
• Thames Ironworks travelled to The Dell to face Southampton in the
first-ever meeting between the two clubs on 16 December 1899. The Southern
League First Division fixture ended in a Saints 3-1 victory.
• The two clubs met 32 times in the Southern League between 1899 and 1915
and on four more occasions in the First World War London Combination and ten
times in the Second World War League South and League South Cup.
• West Ham United were a Football League Division Two club when they
travelled to non-league Southampton for an FA Cup third-round tie on 10
January 1920. The game finished goalless, with the Hammers winning the
replay 3-1 five days later.
• The first league meeting came in Division Two at the Boleyn Ground on 7
October 1922 and ended 1-1. Southampton won the reverse fixture 2-0 at The
Dell a week later. Later the same season, the two clubs met in the FA Cup
fourth round, with West Ham won through 1-0 in a second replay.
• The largest win by either side in professional football came on 4 February
1967 at The Dell, when the Saints secured a 6-2 Division One victory.
• West Ham have recorded three 4-0 victories over Southampton at the Boleyn
Ground - all in Division Two. They occurred on 27 March 1937, 12 April 1947
and 19 April 1952.
• Southampton have twice won 4-2 at the Boleyn Ground. The first instance
occurred on 7 December 1946 in Division Two. The second took place in the
Premier League on 25 April 1998.
• The largest crowd to witness a West Ham versus Southampton fixture was the
35,000 who turned out to watch the clubs score a 1-1 Division Two draw on 13
November 1948.
• The smallest crowd to turn out at the Boleyn Ground for a Football League
fixture between the Hammers and the Saints was the 14,221 who attended
Southampton's 3-2 Division One win here on 22 December 1984.
• Bryan 'Pop' Robson (April 1973) and Paul Goddard (September 1981) are the
only two Hammers to have scored senior hat-tricks against Southampton.
• West Ham and Southampton met 23 times in the Premier League between 1993
and 2003. The Hammers won nine times, Southampton six and there were been
eight draws.
• in the three Premier League meetings since the pair were promoted together
in 2012, West Ham have won once and there have been two draws.
• In total the clubs have met 96 times in the Premier League, Football
League, FA Cup and League Cup. West Ham United have won 37, Southampton 30
and there have been 29 draws.
• James Tomkins and Jack Cork were Team GB squad-mates at the London 2012
Olympuic Games and England team-mates at the 2008 UEFA European Under-19
Championship finals and 2011 UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals.
• Goalkeeper Kelvin Davis spent a short period on trial at West Ham United
during the summer of 2009, but opted to sign a new contract with
Southampton.
Referee
• Saturday's referee is Mark Clattenburg, whose last West Ham United game
came in a 2-1 defeat at Fulham in January.
• Clattenburg was the man with the whistle for the stunning 4-0 win against
Manchester United in the League Cup fifth round back in November 2010
• The 38-year-old was the man in the middle for the Championship Play-Off
semi-final first leg in May 2004 when Ipswich Town won 1-0 against the
visiting West Ham.
• Clattenburg has been on the Select List since 2004, the same year he took
charge of the Division Three Play-Off final between Mansfield Town and
Huddersfield Town at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.
• After becoming a FIFA official in 2006 at the age of 31, Clattenburg has
taken control of a number of international and UEFA Champions League
matches.
• Clattenburg will be assisted by Simon Beck and Adrian Holmes whilst the
fourth official will be Darren Deadman.
General information
• Tickets are still available for Saturday's clash, ticket details can be
found here.
• The weather forecast for Saturday afternoon is light cloud with
temperatures around 10C (50F).
• There is a good service to Upton Park via the District and Hammersmith and
City Lines this weekend
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chadwell Chatter
WHUFC.com
Tony Cottee blogs for the Official Website ahead of West Ham United's
Saturday meeting with Southampton
21.02.2014
Hello everyone,
I was lucky enough to be invited down by the Club to be part of the Open
Training Day on Tuesday. It was fantastic and a bit of a throw-back to the
good old days at Chadwell Heath, when we'd open the gates and let the fans
in to watch us train. It was a little bit more chaotic when we did it, as it
was an open house and everybody turned up! In all seriousness, it's great
for the fans to come and be so close to their heroes, because most training
grounds are now closed shops and it's difficult to let the public or the
media in, for obvious reasons. So, when you hold an Open Training Day like
the Club did on Tuesday, it's great. I spoke to a lot of the parents and
kids and everyone was in such a good mood, bearing in mind how well we've
been doing recently. It might have been a bit different if we'd held the
event a month ago!
Credit to the players and the staff because everyone has worked hard. It's
not easy to get out of the bottom three as you need a lot of hard work, a
bit of luck and to play some good football - I think we've done that. We
have won three on the trot, having not won two on the trot since promotion,
so that's fantastic. Clean sheets are coming thick and fast as well and
we're very close to a record, so there is a lot for the players to play for
between now and the end of the season. The players have been away on their
warm-weather training trip in Dubai and I'm sure they now can't wait for the
Southampton game to come around. When you're on a winning run and confidence
is high, you just want the next game to start.
Talking of clean sheets, the lads will be trying to equal a record on
Saturday that we set back in 1985, when we kept five top-flight clean sheets
in a row.
I wasn't known for my work-rate and defensive awareness and, after we only
won one out of our first seven games that season, we called a players
meeting without the manager or coaching staff. We cleared the air, argued a
bit and we put it right. From then on, we always looked like we'd score and
win games, but defensively we kept five straight clean sheets too, which
doesn't come around too often.
For that reason, it's time to enjoy this team in terms of not conceding
goals because it's not easy to go four consecutive games without conceding.
Do I hope they make it five? Let's put it this way, if we win 2-1 I won't be
too disappointed!
Southampton will be trying to end our run and they have done fantastically
well. When they parted company with Nigel Adkins, everybody said what a good
job
he had done, then they brought in Mauricio Pochettino and everyone was
saying 'Who is this guy?'.
All we knew was he played for Argentina against England in the World Cup,
but he's done fantastic. They have added to their squad, have got some
really good players, and what I like about Southampton is that they've got a
lot of English players.
They are encouraging the youngsters to come through while also bringing in
quality foreign players, so they have just about got the balance right.
They will come here on Saturday and give us a really tough game. As much as
we're on a good run, if we just turn up and expect to win, that's when we'll
have problems. We need the same focus and concentration we've shown in the
last few games and it appears to be there. Training has been sharp and there
is a good team spirit, so I think we'll give Southampton a good game at the
weekend.
We will see Rickie Lambert at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday, as well as Jay
Rodriguez and Adam Lallana, who have also played for England recently. They
could go to Brazil this summer and have done really well. Jack Cork and Luke
Shaw have also had great seasons, as well, so it's very exciting for
Southampton to think that they might have five or six players in the England
squad for the World Cup.
I'd like to see Rickie there, but at the same time I want to see Andy
Carroll back in the fold! Andy contributes great things, and once his
suspension is finished, I am looking forward to seeing him back for the
Everton game.
Enjoy the game on Saturday.
Come on you Irons!
TC
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian aims to bat away Saints
WHUFC.com
Padel player Adrian is looking to keep a fifth straight clean sheet when
Southampton visit
21.02.2014
While keeping clean sheets is Adrian's main aim, West Ham United's Spanish
goalkeeper has revealed that he has another sporting ambition - he would
like to be the world's best Padel player! Padel is a sport the vast majority
of fans will never have heard of, but in Adrian's home city of Seville it is
a popular pastime
Invented in Mexico in 1969, Padel is a racquet sport played on an enclosed
court about half the size of a tennis court. The scoring system and balls
used are the same as tennis, with the main differences that the ball can be
played off the walls in a similar way as in the game of squash and that
solid, stringless racquets are used. "I like Padel, which is a Spanish game
and similar to tennis but is played in a closed court with walls like a
box," the Hammers No13 explained. "I play Padel when I am back at home and
am good at it. If I didn't play football, I'd love to be the world's best
Padel player!"
While Padel is a hobby Adrian is passionate about, the goalkeeper is focused
on extending his run of four consecutive clean sheets by batting away
Southampton in the Barclays Premier League on Saturday. If the 27-year-old
can blank the Saints, he will equal the Hammers' all-time top-flight record
of five set by Phil Parkes back in December 1985. So, can Adrian and his
team-mates stop Mauricio Pochettino's in-form side? "Yes, why not? It's
really difficult to keep this run going but if I can keep four, I can keep
five," he said with confidence. "The team is strong at home and away at
present, so why not? "In my mind, I'm imagining keeping a clean sheet on
Saturday. It is only in my mind to keep a clean sheet and to get the three
points, rather than equalling the record.
"Southampton will be a really difficult game, but we're playing at home and
we need to keep going, keep our strong home form and make other teams
respect us when they come to Upton Park."
Adrian's fourth clean sheet came against Norwich City on 11 February and was
very much his own work, with the former Real Betis man making a string of
saves to deny Gary Hooper, Robert Snodgrass and Alex Tettey. Having kept his
side in the game, two late goals from James Collins and Mohamed Diame saw
West Ham score a 2-0 win that lifted them four points clear of the
relegation zone. "Sometimes the team needs my help. In the last match, I was
able to help my team-mates with my saves and finally we scored two goals and
got the three points. "That was really important and at the moment I feel
really happy with form."
*One fortunate supporter will win Adrian's gloves and goalkeeper shirt
simply by purchasing Saturday's Official Programme v Southampton. A Lucky
Number will be printed on every issue, with the winner being picked at
random. Fans should keep an eye on whufc.com and the Club's social media
platforms for the winning number over the weekend!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
U18s look to maintain fine form
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U18 striker Jordan Brown is eyeing a fifth straight victory
this weekend
21.02.2014
West Ham United U18s take on Barclays U18 Premier League South leaders
Fulham on Saturday with Steve Potts' side looking for a fifth straight
victory.
The Academy's remarkable run of form, which has seen them lose just once in
their last 15 league outings, has taken them to within touching distance of
the top of the table. Striker Jordan Brown is on the hunt for both goals and
points as the young Hammers look to maintain their title charge. "We're full
of confidence. I think we can go all the way, so let's go for it from here,"
he said. "We've only lost once in 15 games and it's a remarkable run really,
we just have to keep going. "Fulham are a very good team and they've just
beaten Manchester City in the FA Youth Cup. We beat them at Little Heath,
but this is a different game so we have to really dig deep and try to get a
result. "I scored last time against them, so hopefully I can do that again
and contribute to a win."
West Ham thumped Reading 4-0 last time out, and although Brown did not get
among the goals himself, he was delighted with the result. He added: "I
didn't get on the scoresheet against Reading, but it was a great team
performance and we scored three goals in the second half. It was a good
result. "Goals-wise it was one of the best halves we've had this season, but
I think we've played as well or even better than that before, when we had to
dig deep. "Moses Makasi scored his first of the season and Amos Nasha his
second and I was happy for them because they're holding midfielders."
West Ham take on Fulham tomorrow at The Cottagers' Motspur Park training
ground, with kick-off at 11am. Live updates will be published on the
Hammers' official twitter feed @whufc_official
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham v Southampton
KO 15:00
21 February 2014
Last updated at 13:55
By Martin Fisher
Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: Upton Park Date: Saturday, 22 February
TEAM NEWS
West Ham will be without striker Andy Carroll, who is serving the last game
of a three-match suspension following his sending off against Swansea.
Ricardo vaz Te and Joey O'Brien remain long-term absentees for the Hammers,
who have no fresh injury concerns.
Southampton could welcome back Dejan Lovren and Gaston Ramirez, who have
both recovered from ankle injuries. However, Saints defender Jos Hooiveld
has been ruled out of the match with an eye problem.
MATCH PREVIEW
Whisper it quietly but Sam Allardyce could be in line to pick up the Premier
League Manager of the Month award. No other side has won three out of three
in February. It represents quite a turnaround too. Cast your mind back to
mid-January when two points from seven games had plunged West Ham into the
relegation zone. "In contrast to Fulham and West Brom, the Hammers stuck
with their manager Sam Allardyce rather than sacking him when they were on a
bad run around the turn of the year. "They are reaping the benefits of
backing a manager who had a proven track record in the Premier League,
instead of changing things and making them worse.."
Then came two embarrassing thrashings in both cup competitions and the
knives were being sharpened for Big Sam. Significantly though, not in the
corridors of power at Upton Park. Bucking this season's trend to pull the
trigger at the first sign of trouble, owners David Sullivan and David Gold
backed their man. Their reward has been a points haul of 13 from a possible
18 to lift West Ham up to the dizzy heights of 11th place in the table. Of
course only a fool would suggest the club are now safe but the outlook
certainly looks a lot healthier. Four clean sheets in a row has been pivotal
to that run. Opponents Southampton drew a blank at Sunderland last weekend
in the FA Cup and their manager Mauricio Pochettino has come in for much
criticism for his team selection. Safe in eighth position in the Premier
League, the argument goes that Saints could and should have targeted the
competition as a realistic opportunity to grab some rare silverware.
Instead, Pochettino chose to leave out the likes of Morgan Schneiderlin, Jay
Rodriguez and Jack Cork, believing others could get them through to the
quarter-finals. For once, he was wrong and now he needs to get his critics
back onside. It should not be that difficult. He has done a remarkable job
at St Mary's. They could still make history by ending the season in seventh
spot which would be a Premier League high for the club. That could mean
finishing above Manchester United - something Southampton last achieved in
1990. True, not as exciting or as memorable as a glory day in the May
sunshine at Wembley, but as achievements go perhaps a more impressive one.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have won just one of the last eight league meetings (W1, D4, L3).
However, Southampton have won just one of the last seven league games
between the teams at Upton Park, losing five.
West Ham
West Ham have kept four clean sheets in a row for the first time in their
Premier League history - they have not kept five in a row in the top flight
since December 1985.
Sam Allardyce's team have not conceded a goal in half of their 26 league
matches this season, the best record in the division.
They have only lost once in their last six league matches, winning four of
them including the last three in a row. They last won four consecutive
top-flight matches between April and May 2007.
No side has lost more points from winning positions than West Ham (14) in
the Premier League this season.
Southampton
Southampton are unbeaten in their last six league matches, winning three and
drawing three.
Out of their previous six league matches away from home, Mauricio
Pochettino's side have only lost once. That was a 2-1 defeat by Everton on
29 December.
Twenty five of the 37 goals they have scored in the Premier League this
season have come from English players. Only Liverpool have recorded more
(30).
Daniel Sturridge (16) is the only English player to have scored more goals
than Jay Rodriguez (10) in the league this season. Rodriguez is two away
from scoring his 50th English career league goal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
In-form West Ham welcome Southampton to Upton Park
Last Updated: 21/02/14 3:53pm
SSN
West Ham United will be hoping their recent revival continues when they
welcome another form side, Southampton, to Upton Park. The Hammers were
languishing in the drop zone a few weeks ago, but are now pushing for a
standing inside the top half. Three straight wins, and four successive clean
sheets, have fired them up the Premier League table, and another positive
result on Saturday will take them into the top 10. Sam Allardyce's patience
and persistence has been rewarded, with West Ham confident that things would
click once key men returned from injury and stability was returned to the
camp. Saints, though, will head to the capital buoyed by their own
top-flight progress. They may have come unstuck in FA Cup competition last
time out, but are unbeaten in the league since New Year's Day. Six games
without a stumble have cemented them in eighth place, and a late run for
Europe could still be on the cards.
Paul Merson's prediction
I don't know what Southampton were doing in the FA Cup last week, I really
don't. They are the only team in the country (apart from maybe Newcastle),
who aren't going to get into Europe or get relegated, so they could have
thrown everything at the FA Cup. So why did they rest players against
Sunderland? Is the manager on a bonus for finishing as high as possible up
the league? It's beyond me - and I bet the players are wondering what's
going on. However, I think they will win this game because they can beat
anyone on their day. West Ham are in form and have won some big games
lately, but I think they might just take their eye off the ball.
PAUL PREDICTS: 1-2
West Ham
Last 6
Norwich (h)2-0
A Villa (a)0-2
Swansea (h)2-0
Chelsea (a)0-0
Man City (h)0-3
Newcastle (h)1-3
West Ham are expected to be unchanged, as they stick with a winning formula.
Striker Andy Carroll completes his three-match suspension and full-back Joey
O'Brien remains sidelined by a shoulder injury. Ricardo Vaz Te is the only
other notable absentee for the Hammers, with his brief return to the first
team fold having been ended by a hamstring complaint.
Southampton
Last 6
1-0
Hull City (a)0-1
Stoke City (h)2-2
Fulham (a)0-3
Arsenal (h)2-2
Yeovil (h)2-0
Southampton will be without defender Jos Hooiveld this weekend. The Dutchman
suffered an eye injury in training on Wednesday and has been ruled out for
the encounter at Upton Park. Croatian central defender Dejan Lovren and
Uruguay midfielder Gaston Ramirez are expected to see some action having
recovered from their respective ankle ligament injuries that kept them
sidelined for a month.
Opta stats
West Ham have won just one of their last eight league meetings with
Southampton (W1 D4 L3).
Southampton have won back-to-back away games in the Premier League - they
have never won three in a row in the competition.
No side has lost more points from winning positions than West Ham United
(14) in the Premier League this season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce wants West Ham to finish strongly
Last Updated: 21/02/14 2:37pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce wants West Ham to show that they are "big enough and strong
enough to conquer" Southampton on Saturday. West Ham have taken 10 points
from the last four games, lifting the Hammers out of the bottom three and up
to 11th, and they host Southampton on Saturday looking to make it four wins
on the trot. Allardyce said: "We'll only know that at the end of the season,
when we have achieved what we want to achieve and that is to finish as high
up the table as we can. "We are not out of the woods yet but we have made
great strides, all of us, including the co-chairmen and vice-chairman Karren
Brady for getting some new players in January. "We are not out of the woods
yet but we have made great strides, all of us." "Everyone has played a part
to alleviate the situation we were in and it's my job to make sure that pays
off. At the moment it's going well, but Southampton are back in good form
again so it will be a difficult game. "But hopefully with the form we are in
we will be big enough and strong enough to conquer them."
West Ham's recent run has been built around a rock-solid defence -dubbed
'Adrian's Wall' after their Spanish goalkeeper - who have conceded just one
goal in six league matches. In fact, their 13 clean sheets this season is
the best defensive record in the Premier League. "It's nice to be top of one
league for a change," added Allardyce. "But the basis for any winning side
is you have to be a sound, solid defensive unit no matter how many talented
players you have.
"That's the basis to start your success on, irrespective of what any other
manager might portray publicly, privately they will say the same. It's just
that I am brave enough to say it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce denies trying to persuade Ravel Morrison to
switch agents
Last Updated: 21/02/14 7:47am
SSN
Sam Allardyce insists that allegations he advised West Ham's Ravel Morrison
to switch agents are "completely unfounded". It has been reported that
midfielder Morrison wanted to leave the Premier League club, having felt
pressured by Allardyce to become a client of his agent Mark Curtis - who
also represents a number of players at Upton Park. Morrison is currently on
loan with Championship promotion hopefuls QPR. But Allardyce strenuously
denies claims that he attempted to persuade the 21-year-old to switch
agents. "I think the world that revolves around Ravel is quite unique in
terms of the publicity he gets, but there we go."The Hammers boss said:
"It's completely unfounded. I think the rumours or allegations will be made
probably by Ravel's representatives. "But there is no truth in the fact I
have sat with Ravel Morrison and tried to press him into signing with any
agent, never mind mine. "It's his choice, his decision, not mine. I haven't
had a discussion on Ravel signing with Mark Curtis, no. "I think the world
that revolves around Ravel is quite unique in terms of the publicity he
gets, but there we go."
As for his loan deal at Loftus Road, Allardyce added: "The fact of the
matter is that Ravel wanted to play some first-team football. "He wasn't
getting it as much here as he wanted so we've let him go on loan. "Our
consistent performances and recent acquisitions have given us a bigger squad
and Ravel has found it a little more difficult to get in."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
MORE QUALITY IN-DEPTH NEEDED; WHAT ABOUT YOUTH; AND THE WIDE MEN MUST
ACTUALISE THEIR ABILITY!
By S J Chandos 21 Feb 2014 at 08:49
West Ham Till I Die
No one can criticise the recent run of good results that have seen the club
suddenly shoot up to 11th in the Premier League. It was timely and shows
what can be done when your best players are available for selection. In
analysing the lessons of this current season, one of the key observations
must be that we possess a genuine PL quality core to our squad. However, it
is when you factor-in injuries and suspensions that our results and PL
position can be adversely affected, as was demonstrated in the period
November 2013-February 2014.
So, a major objective of the forthcoming summer transfer strategy must be to
move on players, who are surplus to requirements, and add more genuine
quality in depth to the squad. Nothing less than a radical squad over-haul
will suffice if we are to avoid a repeat of our not-too-recent struggles and
make a push to challenge for a top eight finish. Unfortunately, I doubt that
the West Ham board will commit the resources to finance that over-haul,
because our whole strategy seems focused upon the twin short-term objectives
of surviving and paying down the debt, ahead of the much heralded move to
the OS in 2016-17. All under-written by the experienced, robast and
pragmatic management of Sam Allardyce. i understand the financial
imperatives that led the club to adopt that position. But lets not delude
ourselves, even if we not only survive this season, but secure another top
10 finish, the fact is we are playing a potentially dangerous game. Until we
adqequately reinforce the squad, there is always the possibility/probability
that an adverse combination of form, injury and suspension could condemn us
to another struggle at the lower end of the table. And in another season it
may not be so open and possible to get out of trouble.There are two more
seasons before we make the switch to the OS and our playing ambitions need
to be about more than just survival; over that period we need to exhibit
progress in the PL and the cup competitions. Or is it really just about
battening the hatches until we reach the promise land of the OS?
Talking of key lessons arising from 2013-14, the board may also wish to ask
serious questions about the club's youth academy and why players are no
longer making the transition to first team regulars. We are still producing
good quality youngsters, but the likes of Driver, Chambers and Lee are not
getting the opportunities that arguably their potential deserves. Good young
players need a phased introduction to first team football, with support and
instruction provided by their more experienced team mates. Too often now at
West Ham they seem to be set up to fail, there is no better example of this
than the recent Nottingham Forest debacle in the FA Cup. Some might well say
that the cut throat nature of the PL militates against the introduction of
youth these days. Its a creditable enough argument, but it ignores the fact,
that there has always an element of risk attached to introducing youngsters
at first team level. But in days gone by, West Ham United were willing to
take such risks in anticipation of the potential rewards. In earlier eras,
the club had a culture dedicated to utilising and developing the fruits of
the Academy. And we had management who knew how to gradually
integrate/acclimatise them in to the squad and first team. Sadly, the
overwhelming evidence suggests that is no longer the case. And it is all too
convenient to use the 'fear factor' of the modern PL as a ready excuse. If
clubs like Southampton can still do it, then so can we!
Of course, these two observations pertaining to adding quality in-depth to
the squad and the produce of the Academy intersect. Because one of the best
and cost-effective ways of achieving greater strength-in-depth is by
producing your own players. It has been observed that there are a number of
U-21s who have played consistently well for the Development Squad, but have
failed to make the transition to the first team. Could that not be because
of a lack of faith in these youngsters and a lack of courage to introduce
them in the right way. No one is going to tell me that Leo Chambers cannot
make the transition. He played at right-back in the early Capital One Cup
Rounds and looked very comfortable. Even amongst the debris of the
Nottingham Forrest defeat, Callum Driver gave a good account of himself at
full-back. And Elliott Lee is one of the best young goal scoring talents in
the country. If these players are to make the transition they must get
regular exposure to first team football, in a strong first XI. That is where
the final transition is made, not in the U-21s, who can only prepare them up
to the point of making the transition. If they do not receive that vital,
phased exposure than then their talent will likely stagnate amidst
continual, meaningless lower league loan deals. Which is exactly what is
currently happening to some of our best young talents.
Finally, in Matt Jarvis and Stuart Downing we have two of the best wide
players in the country. I say that without a shadow of a doubt. Yet, I
cannot deny that there is a element of disappointment in their overall
performance this season. Both have pace, skill and the ability to deliver
accurate crosses in to the opposition box. Both are also more than capable
of cutting inside and scoring their fair quota of goals. Indeed, their
ability to do this and support the centre forward is crucial in the 4-3-3
formation.They also have the pace to facilitate swift counter-attacks and
quickly put the opposition on the back foot. However, I just feel that
neither player has consistently played to the level that they are capable.
How much of this has to do with form and how much with their specific
allocated roles within our tactical system?
Regardless, Jarvis and Downing can be instrumental in improving the
attacking efficiency of the team. When will we get to see them actualise
their full ability?
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce admits West Ham tried to buy Southampton striker Rickie
Lambert in January
Feb 21, 2014 22:30 By Mirror Football
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has admitted he tried to sign Rickie Lambert in January – as
Mirror Sport revealed . Now the West Ham manager is working on a plan to
stop the England striker when Southampton visit Upton Park today. Lambert
has 11 goals for club and country this term and has a great chance of making
Roy Hodgson's World Cup squad. Hammers boss Allardyce said: "We were (in for
Lambert). "There was some interest that the chairman expressed but it never
materialised in the end. "He is the master of his position at the minute
because he scores all different types of goals. He continues to get better
and better."
Allardyce has likened Lambert to Teddy Sheringham for his passing,
through-balls and ability to find space. He also admires the 32-year-old for
the way he has developed his game through the divisions. Allardyce added:
"He's had an outstanding career and is a good example to young lads of
starting at the bottom and saying never ever give up or stop trying to
achieve your dreams. He's a role model for any youngster . "Every question
put to him has been answered 10 fold in that every time he has gone up a
level, he has produced."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
Saturday, February 22
Friday, February 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st February 2014
Collins ready for Saints battle
WHUFC.com
James Collins is anticipating a stern examination when the Hammers take on
Southampton
20.02.2014
James Collins is ready for a battle with Southampton in the Barclays Premier
League on Saturday. The Hammers have enjoyed success against the Saints
since the pair returned to the Barclays Premier League in 2012, with Sam
Allardyce's side taking five points from three meetings with the South Coast
club. Mauricio Pochettino's men arrive in E13 sitting eighth in the table
and on a six-game unbeaten run. Central defender Collins is well aware of
Southampton's qualities, but having kept four clean sheets in a row, the
No19 is backing his team to produce again. He said: "It'll be a tough game.
We had a hell of a battle with them at St Mary's earlier in the season.
They're very good going forward and strong at the back as well - we're going
to have be on top form. "We are going into games with a lot of confidence,
and obviously with our fans behind us we'll be confident that we can get a
result. "We knew that if we could turn it around we'd move up the league
quite quickly. To get the points, and with the way we've been playing, it
has been even better. It's the first time we've had a proper fit squad and
the confidence is back, so it's looking up. "I don't think a lot has changed
defensively. We've kept 13 clean sheets in all, so we have been defending
well. There has been the odd game when we've let three in, but that's going
to happen with the quality of the Premier League. "We've defended reasonably
well all season, it was at the other end where we were struggling to score
goals. That's turned around now, Kev's bang in form, Andy's fit again and
Carlton's got five goals as well. There's competition for places and that's
why we've improved."
The Hammers have moved up to eleventh as a result of their recent
improvement, but Collins knows the job is not finished yet. He continued:
"it's the old cliche, we just have to get as many points as we can. We're
still not safe, so that's the main objective and then if we can finish there
or thereabouts where we were last year, that would be unbelievable after the
start. "You've got to get results against the teams in and around you - if
you start losing against them, that's when you're in trouble, but they're
all tough games now because every team you play against is either going for
Europe or fighting relegation. We're full of confidence, though, because of
the way we're playing and the results. "The spirit has always been the same.
Kev the captain is always promoting the team spirit, it's the best that I've
been around. When you're under pressure that's when team spirit comes to the
fore and that's shown. "It all started from that game at Stamford Bridge
when we got the 0-0 draw. That gave us massive confidence, and we've gone
from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC nears return
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll has been working hard in Dubai ahead of his return from
suspension
20.02.2014
Andy Carroll is back at Chadwell Heath and raring to go after an extended
spell of warm-weather training in Dubai. The No9 misses out on Saturday's
Barclays Premier League visit of Southampton as he serves the third match of
his suspension, but will return to manager Sam Allardyce's squad for the
game at Everton on Saturday 1 March. To help his preparation for the final
eleven matches of the campaign, Carroll remained in Dubai with first team
rehab fitness coach Eduardo Parra - and teammate Joey O'Brien - after the
rest of the squad returned home last weekend to focus on Southampton.
Carroll and O'Brien, who is working his way back from a shoulder injury, put
in plenty of hard work during their extra time in the Middle East,
undergoing gym and football sessions at Dubai Sport City. Hammers assistant
manager Neil McDonald said: "Andy stayed in Dubai as a continuation of his
rehabilitation, really. He's worked very, very hard to get himself fit and
he's made an impact since coming back. "Unfortunately he got sent-off
against Swansea, and we still can't believe that happened. He's still got
one more game of his suspension against Southampton, so we decided to leave
him out there with the rehab fitness coach Eduardo. He was there with to do
some work in the sun, and Andy has come back ready and raring to go for
Everton"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam on: Southampton
WHUFC.com
Big Sam met the press ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League match
against Southampton
20.02.2014
Sam Allardyce met the assembled media on Thursday morning at Chadwell Heath
ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash against Southampton at the
Boleyn Ground. Big Sam was quizzed on the team's recent break to Dubai, his
side's excellent defensive record and the relegation battle.
Morning Sam, you're going for five clean sheets against Southampton, how
have you turned things around defensively?
SA: "I think that, without wanting to repeat myself consistently, from a
clean sheet point of view it's always been there until we had our real
injury problems in December and January. Prior to that, we started the
season with six clean sheets out of ten games. We had that spell where lots
of players were injured, in defence particularly and we lost that solid
base. Our problem prior to that was scoring goals to win matches, to get
more points and now the squad is bigger, better and fitter, we're putting
both ends together. We're keeping clean sheets, scoring goals and I think
that's been a huge turnaround for the whole squad, the team and the Club at
this stage. "We've got to really focus on trying to continue doing the
things we've been doing over the last few games and there's now quite a few
players in the squad that haven't started and want to start. It gives more
competition for places. We've got Winston Reid who can't get back in the
side at the moment. Our new signings can't get a game because since they've
been here we haven't lost a game. They're finding it hard to get in from a
starting basis because the players that are in at the moment are doing a
fantastic job. "They all need to be in it together because of what will
happen between now and the end of the season and they will all play a part.
We've got to try and maintain the run of results that we've had. We play
Southampton on Saturday and that will be a tough game and a big test for us.
We're looking forward to the game. We're a long way from being safe, a long
way. There's a long way to go in terms of trying to get safe so we must try
and maintain the good run of results we've had over the last few weeks."
How many points do you think will keep you safe this season?
SA: "It's been a strange season so it's difficult to estimate that. We've
put 13 points together in six games but we're only four points from the
third bottom scenario so it's going to be at least 38 points and based on
what's happening, it may be more than that. There hasn't been too many years
over the last ten years when you've had to have over 38 points but you
perhaps will this time."
You've been away in Dubai, how beneficial was that do you think?
SA: "Every year that I've been a manager over the course of the last 12
years or so a mid-winter break has always been the case. It always promotes
a better more energetic side when we arrive back and we hope that will
continue. The fact that we were going to Dubai in the first place spurred
the players on to continue to get the results that they got. Over the last
six games, Norwich City was our biggest physical output that we'd achieved
for the last two months and that always gives you a chance of getting a
result. The physical aspect of the game is so, so important today, it runs
alongside the technical and tactical aspects of the game."
You've mentioned the great run you're on since the Chelsea game. Have you
done anything differently since before that match?
SA: "I think that we've changed our approach slightly. The basics will
always stay the same but we've changed the training around a little bit. Try
not to put any extra pressure on the players, there's already enough
pressure on them. Try and keep a good mood around the training ground and
keep the players focused on what they need to do in both boxes. They need to
create opportunities and consistently hitting the target with chances
created will bring goals. At the other end you have to work hard to nullify
the opposition and try not to concede. Always try and score the first goal
and from our point of view our good run has happened because we've been able
to keep clean sheets and always score the first goal."
West Ham have kept faith with you whilst some clubs, to use Rene
Meulensteen's words, have hit the panic button and sacked their managers.
Does your
recent run vindicate the owner's decision?
SA: "We can only tell that at the end of the season when we've achieved what
we want to achieve and that's to finish as high up the table as we can.
We're not out of the woods yet but I think all of us have made great strides
and great efforts. Not just here at the training ground, but the
Joint-Chairmen and the Vice-Chairman Karren Brady on acquiring some new
players for us in January. Everybody's played their part to try and
alleviate the situation that we were in and it's my job to make sure that
pays off in the end. At the moment it's going well but Southampton, who are
back on a winning streak, will provide a very difficult game for us.
Hopefully in the form that we're in, we'll be big enough and strong enough
to conquer them."
It's quite remarkable that your side are top of the clean sheet league…
SA: "It's nice to be top of one league for a change! The basis of every
winning side is that you have to be good at defending. You have to be a
sound, solid defensive unit irrespective of how many talented players you
have and how many goals you're able to score. When you look across the
board, that is always the basis to start your success from."
And it's a battle of two sides that have a rich tradition of bringing
players through…
SA: "We would look at Southampton and say that they are the main club in the
country at the moment for producing their young players. They've got a lot
of success out of their academy. The change in focus in the academy
unfortunately is that quite often now, even at a very young age, you have to
buy them at some stage from somewhere else. They've been very successful in
both of those aspects and irrespective of the players that they've sold,
they've still got some outstanding young Premier League players. Probably
more than anyone else in the country at the moment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jarvis eyes top ten
WHUFC.com
Matt Jarvis believes the Hammers can still achieve a top ten finish in the
Barclays Premier League
20.02.2014
Matt Jarvis believes that West Ham United can still match last season's
achievement of a top ten finish in the Barclays Premier League. The Hammers
have won their last three league matches and are only two points behind the
total they accumulated at this stage last season. A win against Southampton
on Saturday will take Sam Allardyce's side to 31 points from 27 games, a
point more than at the same milestone last season, and Jarvis believes the
team have come good over recent weeks. He told West Ham TV: "I think we're
on almost the same points as we were at this stage last season so it's a
turnaround. "We had such a good start last season that it really helped keep
us up in the top half and when we had a little dip it didn't matter as much
because we were still high up in the table. "This season we've been a little
up and down in the table but it's nice that we're on a high at the moment
and hopefully we can continue that."
Against the Saints the Hammers will be looking for a third straight home win
following 2-0 successes against both Swansea City and Norwich City at the
Boleyn Ground. Mauricio Pochettino's team are currently eighth in the table
and will provide tough opposition for Jarvis and co, but the winger believes
that West Ham can triumph with the backing of the fans behind them. "When
the atmosphere here is electric it's a really tough place to come and
hopefully we can carry on our good form with the fans backing us as they
have done all season. "We just need to keep the morale up and keep the
confidence levels high to continue this form and hopefully we can enjoy
another win on Saturday. "They're a very good side. A good passing team with
a lot of energy and it will be a tough game but as I said, we're on a roll
and I'm sure it will be a very good game."
The winger was speaking after the Hammers held an Open Training session for
Season Ticket Holders at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday, a day which provided
the chance for fans and players alike to show their appreciation for one
another. Jarvis felt the day was a great opportunity to interact with the
Club's fans and was more than happy to meet and sign autographs for those
fans present. "It's nice to have everyone come down and actually see us
train, have some interaction with the fans, have a little chat, a few photos
and autographs, it's a great day for everyone. "You always hear the crowd
from the sidelines during games and it's nice to come down and have a little
chat with them whilst they're in this more relaxed environment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce targets 38 points
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 20th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that 38 points should be enough to guarantee Premier
League survival this season. With West Ham on a fantastic recent run of
form, Southampton are next to visit the Boleyn Ground for what should be a
fascinating test against Allardyce's rejuvenated squad this weekend. Having
picked up ten points from their last four outings without conceding a single
goal, West Ham are understandably in confident mood - which should stand
them in good stead against a Saints side who have exceeded all expectations
in the Premier League this season and currently reside three places above
United in eighth position.
Big Sam, who spent last weekend in Dubai wiith his squad at a 'warm-weather'
training camp believes that a win this weekend against Mauricio Pochettino's
side could leave West Ham requiring two or three victories to seal another
season in the Premier League. "We've put 13 points together in six games
but we're only four points from third bottom, so it's going to be at least
38 points based on what's happening," he told the press this morning. "There
hasn't been too many years over the last ten years when you've had to have
over 38 points, but perhaps you will this time. "We've got to really focus
on trying to continue doing the things we've been doing over the last few
games. There's now quite a few players in the squad that haven't started and
want to start - like Winston Reid, who can't get back in the side at the
moment. "We're not out of the woods yet, but I think all of us have made
great strides and great efforts. Everybody's played their part to try and
alleviate the situation that we were in and it's my job to make sure that
pays off in the end."
And on the challenge offered by this weekend's opponents, Allardyce added:
"That will be a tough game and a big test for us, so we must try and
maintain the good run of results we've had over the last few weeks. "At the
moment it's going well but Southampton, who are back on a winning streak,
will provide a very difficult game for us. Hopefully in the form that we're
in, we'll be big enough and strong enough to conquer them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce silent on Ravel Morrison's West Ham future
Last Updated: 20/02/14 4:30pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has refused to comment on the future of Ravel
Morrison at the club following the midfielder's loan move to QPR. Morrison
joined Rangers on a 93-day emergency loan after failing to secure a
first-team place under Allardyce, who was critical of the player during his
time at Upton Park. The former Manchester United prospect has not played for
the Hammers since January amid talk of issues off the field, and this week
dropped down a division to move to Loftus Road. But Allardyce has refused to
elaborate on the reasons for farming out the England Under-21 star. "Our new
acquisitions have given us a bigger squad and Ravel found it a little bit
more difficult to get in." Allardyce said: "I'm not answering questions on
Ravel Morrison right now because he's not with us - he is on loan at QPR.
"We have done a deal with QPR and are playing football against Southampton
on Saturday. "My focus is the squad of players I've got here and the fact of
the matter is Ravel wanted to play some first-team football. He wasn't
getting it as much here as he wanted, so we have let him go on loan to QPR.
"Our consistent performances with our new acquisitions like Antonio
Nocerino, Marco Borriello, Roger Johnson and Pablo Armero have given us a
bigger squad and Ravel found it a little bit more difficult to get in. "So
we move on to Southampton, with the players we have got at the club and the
focus will be on continuing our fantastic form." When asked if he thought he
had played his last game for West Ham, Allardyce simply answered: "No!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ANDY CARROLL'S FORMER AGENT DAY IN COURT
By Sean Whetstone 20 Feb 2014 at 09:00
West Ham Till I Die
The FA are set for a legal battle in the High Court in March with Andy's
Carroll's former agent Peter Harrison. Harrison maintains he was cut out of
Andy Carroll's £35m move to Liverpool. He claims that under FA rules the
agent who had the player under contract is entitled to a percentage of the
deal.
He is attempting to force the Football Association to release all documents
regarding the transfer of Andy Carroll to Liverpool.
Harrison retired as a football agent after an earlier FA arbitration panel
found against him in a legal battle over the £35million transfer. The FA
tribunal ruled in favour of Carroll's new agent, Mark Curtis. Harrison
claims Andy Carroll still had two months left on his contract with him when
Liverpool made their bid. Harrison remains convinced he should have been
involved in the Liverpool deal after investing so much time in the striker
and becoming a family friend. He was even named on the custody document with
Northumbria police when Carroll was arrested for alleged assault in 2009.
Carroll was fined after admitting assault.
Andy Carroll stated at the time he did not use an agent in the transfer to
Liverpool; a solicitor called Richard Green, said he had advised him in the
deal. Liverpool did use an agent. They employed David Bromley, whose name is
noted in the contract. Bromley is not a well-known agent but he did hold a
Fifa licence and was authorised by the Football Association, giving the name
of his company as Centurion Sports Management, registered in Maidstone,
Kent.
Harrison himself found fame at the centre of BBC Panorama's controversial
"bungs probe" programme, he claimed he had relied upon a cut of Andy
Carroll's £35m move to Liverpool at the time to help him pay off a
long-standing debt to Sam Allardyce to avoid him becoming bankrupt.
In 2005 the then-Bolton boss Sam Allardyce loaned Peter Harrison and former
Hammer Lucas Neill – one of Harrison's clients – £300,000 to fund a property
development. The plan was to develop Laverick Hall Farm in Gateshead into 14
homes and the agreement was to repay Sam Allardyce £600,000 plus interest
however the development was never built. Allardyce took legal action against
Harrison and Neill to recoup his money through the High Court in 2007,
claiming some £650,000 plus interest and costs and the pair conceded and
agreed to repay it. In 2009 Harrison faced a bankruptcy hearing in which the
court made the order for £782,000 – it emerged Mr Harrison has already paid
back around £650,000.
In a 2011 Interview Peter Harrison admitted to the Daily Mail he freely took
advantage of the naivety of the then West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson to
pocket £900,000 in commission in the deal to sign Lucas Neill. He claimed
that when he took Lucas Neill to West Ham instead of Liverpool he earned
£900,000 and we put Neill on £72,000 a week. He said 'He was going to
Liverpool but West Ham wouldn't take no for an answer. It was incredible.
'At the time I thought it was just business – I had bills to pay, office,
telephone, travel – but when I look back on it now I'm embarrassed'
Harrison previously represented West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen who is
now also with Mark Curtis.
In 2012 Harrison took to twitter to make a number of accusations against
Mark Curtis, Sam Allardyce and Bolton Chairman/FA board member Phil
Gartside. This resulted in a threat of legal action from the FA to protect
Phil Gartside.
This new High Court case will be heard on 25th March
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
James Collins is anticipating a stern examination when the Hammers take on
Southampton
20.02.2014
James Collins is ready for a battle with Southampton in the Barclays Premier
League on Saturday. The Hammers have enjoyed success against the Saints
since the pair returned to the Barclays Premier League in 2012, with Sam
Allardyce's side taking five points from three meetings with the South Coast
club. Mauricio Pochettino's men arrive in E13 sitting eighth in the table
and on a six-game unbeaten run. Central defender Collins is well aware of
Southampton's qualities, but having kept four clean sheets in a row, the
No19 is backing his team to produce again. He said: "It'll be a tough game.
We had a hell of a battle with them at St Mary's earlier in the season.
They're very good going forward and strong at the back as well - we're going
to have be on top form. "We are going into games with a lot of confidence,
and obviously with our fans behind us we'll be confident that we can get a
result. "We knew that if we could turn it around we'd move up the league
quite quickly. To get the points, and with the way we've been playing, it
has been even better. It's the first time we've had a proper fit squad and
the confidence is back, so it's looking up. "I don't think a lot has changed
defensively. We've kept 13 clean sheets in all, so we have been defending
well. There has been the odd game when we've let three in, but that's going
to happen with the quality of the Premier League. "We've defended reasonably
well all season, it was at the other end where we were struggling to score
goals. That's turned around now, Kev's bang in form, Andy's fit again and
Carlton's got five goals as well. There's competition for places and that's
why we've improved."
The Hammers have moved up to eleventh as a result of their recent
improvement, but Collins knows the job is not finished yet. He continued:
"it's the old cliche, we just have to get as many points as we can. We're
still not safe, so that's the main objective and then if we can finish there
or thereabouts where we were last year, that would be unbelievable after the
start. "You've got to get results against the teams in and around you - if
you start losing against them, that's when you're in trouble, but they're
all tough games now because every team you play against is either going for
Europe or fighting relegation. We're full of confidence, though, because of
the way we're playing and the results. "The spirit has always been the same.
Kev the captain is always promoting the team spirit, it's the best that I've
been around. When you're under pressure that's when team spirit comes to the
fore and that's shown. "It all started from that game at Stamford Bridge
when we got the 0-0 draw. That gave us massive confidence, and we've gone
from there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AC nears return
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll has been working hard in Dubai ahead of his return from
suspension
20.02.2014
Andy Carroll is back at Chadwell Heath and raring to go after an extended
spell of warm-weather training in Dubai. The No9 misses out on Saturday's
Barclays Premier League visit of Southampton as he serves the third match of
his suspension, but will return to manager Sam Allardyce's squad for the
game at Everton on Saturday 1 March. To help his preparation for the final
eleven matches of the campaign, Carroll remained in Dubai with first team
rehab fitness coach Eduardo Parra - and teammate Joey O'Brien - after the
rest of the squad returned home last weekend to focus on Southampton.
Carroll and O'Brien, who is working his way back from a shoulder injury, put
in plenty of hard work during their extra time in the Middle East,
undergoing gym and football sessions at Dubai Sport City. Hammers assistant
manager Neil McDonald said: "Andy stayed in Dubai as a continuation of his
rehabilitation, really. He's worked very, very hard to get himself fit and
he's made an impact since coming back. "Unfortunately he got sent-off
against Swansea, and we still can't believe that happened. He's still got
one more game of his suspension against Southampton, so we decided to leave
him out there with the rehab fitness coach Eduardo. He was there with to do
some work in the sun, and Andy has come back ready and raring to go for
Everton"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Big Sam on: Southampton
WHUFC.com
Big Sam met the press ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League match
against Southampton
20.02.2014
Sam Allardyce met the assembled media on Thursday morning at Chadwell Heath
ahead of Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash against Southampton at the
Boleyn Ground. Big Sam was quizzed on the team's recent break to Dubai, his
side's excellent defensive record and the relegation battle.
Morning Sam, you're going for five clean sheets against Southampton, how
have you turned things around defensively?
SA: "I think that, without wanting to repeat myself consistently, from a
clean sheet point of view it's always been there until we had our real
injury problems in December and January. Prior to that, we started the
season with six clean sheets out of ten games. We had that spell where lots
of players were injured, in defence particularly and we lost that solid
base. Our problem prior to that was scoring goals to win matches, to get
more points and now the squad is bigger, better and fitter, we're putting
both ends together. We're keeping clean sheets, scoring goals and I think
that's been a huge turnaround for the whole squad, the team and the Club at
this stage. "We've got to really focus on trying to continue doing the
things we've been doing over the last few games and there's now quite a few
players in the squad that haven't started and want to start. It gives more
competition for places. We've got Winston Reid who can't get back in the
side at the moment. Our new signings can't get a game because since they've
been here we haven't lost a game. They're finding it hard to get in from a
starting basis because the players that are in at the moment are doing a
fantastic job. "They all need to be in it together because of what will
happen between now and the end of the season and they will all play a part.
We've got to try and maintain the run of results that we've had. We play
Southampton on Saturday and that will be a tough game and a big test for us.
We're looking forward to the game. We're a long way from being safe, a long
way. There's a long way to go in terms of trying to get safe so we must try
and maintain the good run of results we've had over the last few weeks."
How many points do you think will keep you safe this season?
SA: "It's been a strange season so it's difficult to estimate that. We've
put 13 points together in six games but we're only four points from the
third bottom scenario so it's going to be at least 38 points and based on
what's happening, it may be more than that. There hasn't been too many years
over the last ten years when you've had to have over 38 points but you
perhaps will this time."
You've been away in Dubai, how beneficial was that do you think?
SA: "Every year that I've been a manager over the course of the last 12
years or so a mid-winter break has always been the case. It always promotes
a better more energetic side when we arrive back and we hope that will
continue. The fact that we were going to Dubai in the first place spurred
the players on to continue to get the results that they got. Over the last
six games, Norwich City was our biggest physical output that we'd achieved
for the last two months and that always gives you a chance of getting a
result. The physical aspect of the game is so, so important today, it runs
alongside the technical and tactical aspects of the game."
You've mentioned the great run you're on since the Chelsea game. Have you
done anything differently since before that match?
SA: "I think that we've changed our approach slightly. The basics will
always stay the same but we've changed the training around a little bit. Try
not to put any extra pressure on the players, there's already enough
pressure on them. Try and keep a good mood around the training ground and
keep the players focused on what they need to do in both boxes. They need to
create opportunities and consistently hitting the target with chances
created will bring goals. At the other end you have to work hard to nullify
the opposition and try not to concede. Always try and score the first goal
and from our point of view our good run has happened because we've been able
to keep clean sheets and always score the first goal."
West Ham have kept faith with you whilst some clubs, to use Rene
Meulensteen's words, have hit the panic button and sacked their managers.
Does your
recent run vindicate the owner's decision?
SA: "We can only tell that at the end of the season when we've achieved what
we want to achieve and that's to finish as high up the table as we can.
We're not out of the woods yet but I think all of us have made great strides
and great efforts. Not just here at the training ground, but the
Joint-Chairmen and the Vice-Chairman Karren Brady on acquiring some new
players for us in January. Everybody's played their part to try and
alleviate the situation that we were in and it's my job to make sure that
pays off in the end. At the moment it's going well but Southampton, who are
back on a winning streak, will provide a very difficult game for us.
Hopefully in the form that we're in, we'll be big enough and strong enough
to conquer them."
It's quite remarkable that your side are top of the clean sheet league…
SA: "It's nice to be top of one league for a change! The basis of every
winning side is that you have to be good at defending. You have to be a
sound, solid defensive unit irrespective of how many talented players you
have and how many goals you're able to score. When you look across the
board, that is always the basis to start your success from."
And it's a battle of two sides that have a rich tradition of bringing
players through…
SA: "We would look at Southampton and say that they are the main club in the
country at the moment for producing their young players. They've got a lot
of success out of their academy. The change in focus in the academy
unfortunately is that quite often now, even at a very young age, you have to
buy them at some stage from somewhere else. They've been very successful in
both of those aspects and irrespective of the players that they've sold,
they've still got some outstanding young Premier League players. Probably
more than anyone else in the country at the moment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jarvis eyes top ten
WHUFC.com
Matt Jarvis believes the Hammers can still achieve a top ten finish in the
Barclays Premier League
20.02.2014
Matt Jarvis believes that West Ham United can still match last season's
achievement of a top ten finish in the Barclays Premier League. The Hammers
have won their last three league matches and are only two points behind the
total they accumulated at this stage last season. A win against Southampton
on Saturday will take Sam Allardyce's side to 31 points from 27 games, a
point more than at the same milestone last season, and Jarvis believes the
team have come good over recent weeks. He told West Ham TV: "I think we're
on almost the same points as we were at this stage last season so it's a
turnaround. "We had such a good start last season that it really helped keep
us up in the top half and when we had a little dip it didn't matter as much
because we were still high up in the table. "This season we've been a little
up and down in the table but it's nice that we're on a high at the moment
and hopefully we can continue that."
Against the Saints the Hammers will be looking for a third straight home win
following 2-0 successes against both Swansea City and Norwich City at the
Boleyn Ground. Mauricio Pochettino's team are currently eighth in the table
and will provide tough opposition for Jarvis and co, but the winger believes
that West Ham can triumph with the backing of the fans behind them. "When
the atmosphere here is electric it's a really tough place to come and
hopefully we can carry on our good form with the fans backing us as they
have done all season. "We just need to keep the morale up and keep the
confidence levels high to continue this form and hopefully we can enjoy
another win on Saturday. "They're a very good side. A good passing team with
a lot of energy and it will be a tough game but as I said, we're on a roll
and I'm sure it will be a very good game."
The winger was speaking after the Hammers held an Open Training session for
Season Ticket Holders at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday, a day which provided
the chance for fans and players alike to show their appreciation for one
another. Jarvis felt the day was a great opportunity to interact with the
Club's fans and was more than happy to meet and sign autographs for those
fans present. "It's nice to have everyone come down and actually see us
train, have some interaction with the fans, have a little chat, a few photos
and autographs, it's a great day for everyone. "You always hear the crowd
from the sidelines during games and it's nice to come down and have a little
chat with them whilst they're in this more relaxed environment."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce targets 38 points
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 20th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce believes that 38 points should be enough to guarantee Premier
League survival this season. With West Ham on a fantastic recent run of
form, Southampton are next to visit the Boleyn Ground for what should be a
fascinating test against Allardyce's rejuvenated squad this weekend. Having
picked up ten points from their last four outings without conceding a single
goal, West Ham are understandably in confident mood - which should stand
them in good stead against a Saints side who have exceeded all expectations
in the Premier League this season and currently reside three places above
United in eighth position.
Big Sam, who spent last weekend in Dubai wiith his squad at a 'warm-weather'
training camp believes that a win this weekend against Mauricio Pochettino's
side could leave West Ham requiring two or three victories to seal another
season in the Premier League. "We've put 13 points together in six games
but we're only four points from third bottom, so it's going to be at least
38 points based on what's happening," he told the press this morning. "There
hasn't been too many years over the last ten years when you've had to have
over 38 points, but perhaps you will this time. "We've got to really focus
on trying to continue doing the things we've been doing over the last few
games. There's now quite a few players in the squad that haven't started and
want to start - like Winston Reid, who can't get back in the side at the
moment. "We're not out of the woods yet, but I think all of us have made
great strides and great efforts. Everybody's played their part to try and
alleviate the situation that we were in and it's my job to make sure that
pays off in the end."
And on the challenge offered by this weekend's opponents, Allardyce added:
"That will be a tough game and a big test for us, so we must try and
maintain the good run of results we've had over the last few weeks. "At the
moment it's going well but Southampton, who are back on a winning streak,
will provide a very difficult game for us. Hopefully in the form that we're
in, we'll be big enough and strong enough to conquer them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce silent on Ravel Morrison's West Ham future
Last Updated: 20/02/14 4:30pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has refused to comment on the future of Ravel
Morrison at the club following the midfielder's loan move to QPR. Morrison
joined Rangers on a 93-day emergency loan after failing to secure a
first-team place under Allardyce, who was critical of the player during his
time at Upton Park. The former Manchester United prospect has not played for
the Hammers since January amid talk of issues off the field, and this week
dropped down a division to move to Loftus Road. But Allardyce has refused to
elaborate on the reasons for farming out the England Under-21 star. "Our new
acquisitions have given us a bigger squad and Ravel found it a little bit
more difficult to get in." Allardyce said: "I'm not answering questions on
Ravel Morrison right now because he's not with us - he is on loan at QPR.
"We have done a deal with QPR and are playing football against Southampton
on Saturday. "My focus is the squad of players I've got here and the fact of
the matter is Ravel wanted to play some first-team football. He wasn't
getting it as much here as he wanted, so we have let him go on loan to QPR.
"Our consistent performances with our new acquisitions like Antonio
Nocerino, Marco Borriello, Roger Johnson and Pablo Armero have given us a
bigger squad and Ravel found it a little bit more difficult to get in. "So
we move on to Southampton, with the players we have got at the club and the
focus will be on continuing our fantastic form." When asked if he thought he
had played his last game for West Ham, Allardyce simply answered: "No!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ANDY CARROLL'S FORMER AGENT DAY IN COURT
By Sean Whetstone 20 Feb 2014 at 09:00
West Ham Till I Die
The FA are set for a legal battle in the High Court in March with Andy's
Carroll's former agent Peter Harrison. Harrison maintains he was cut out of
Andy Carroll's £35m move to Liverpool. He claims that under FA rules the
agent who had the player under contract is entitled to a percentage of the
deal.
He is attempting to force the Football Association to release all documents
regarding the transfer of Andy Carroll to Liverpool.
Harrison retired as a football agent after an earlier FA arbitration panel
found against him in a legal battle over the £35million transfer. The FA
tribunal ruled in favour of Carroll's new agent, Mark Curtis. Harrison
claims Andy Carroll still had two months left on his contract with him when
Liverpool made their bid. Harrison remains convinced he should have been
involved in the Liverpool deal after investing so much time in the striker
and becoming a family friend. He was even named on the custody document with
Northumbria police when Carroll was arrested for alleged assault in 2009.
Carroll was fined after admitting assault.
Andy Carroll stated at the time he did not use an agent in the transfer to
Liverpool; a solicitor called Richard Green, said he had advised him in the
deal. Liverpool did use an agent. They employed David Bromley, whose name is
noted in the contract. Bromley is not a well-known agent but he did hold a
Fifa licence and was authorised by the Football Association, giving the name
of his company as Centurion Sports Management, registered in Maidstone,
Kent.
Harrison himself found fame at the centre of BBC Panorama's controversial
"bungs probe" programme, he claimed he had relied upon a cut of Andy
Carroll's £35m move to Liverpool at the time to help him pay off a
long-standing debt to Sam Allardyce to avoid him becoming bankrupt.
In 2005 the then-Bolton boss Sam Allardyce loaned Peter Harrison and former
Hammer Lucas Neill – one of Harrison's clients – £300,000 to fund a property
development. The plan was to develop Laverick Hall Farm in Gateshead into 14
homes and the agreement was to repay Sam Allardyce £600,000 plus interest
however the development was never built. Allardyce took legal action against
Harrison and Neill to recoup his money through the High Court in 2007,
claiming some £650,000 plus interest and costs and the pair conceded and
agreed to repay it. In 2009 Harrison faced a bankruptcy hearing in which the
court made the order for £782,000 – it emerged Mr Harrison has already paid
back around £650,000.
In a 2011 Interview Peter Harrison admitted to the Daily Mail he freely took
advantage of the naivety of the then West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson to
pocket £900,000 in commission in the deal to sign Lucas Neill. He claimed
that when he took Lucas Neill to West Ham instead of Liverpool he earned
£900,000 and we put Neill on £72,000 a week. He said 'He was going to
Liverpool but West Ham wouldn't take no for an answer. It was incredible.
'At the time I thought it was just business – I had bills to pay, office,
telephone, travel – but when I look back on it now I'm embarrassed'
Harrison previously represented West Ham keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen who is
now also with Mark Curtis.
In 2012 Harrison took to twitter to make a number of accusations against
Mark Curtis, Sam Allardyce and Bolton Chairman/FA board member Phil
Gartside. This resulted in a threat of legal action from the FA to protect
Phil Gartside.
This new High Court case will be heard on 25th March
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
Thursday, February 20
Daily WHUFC News - 20th February 2014
'Nobody gives you points for free'
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender Guy Demel knows the Hammers have to continue at
full-throttle
19.02.2014
Guy Demel is eyeing yet another clean sheet when West Ham United take on
Southampton on Saturday. The Ivorian has helped Sam Allardyce's men shut out
their last four opponents, and a fifth in a row could see them move into the
top half of the Barclays Premier League table. It represents a remarkable
turnaround for the Hammers, who were in the division's bottom three just two
games ago - but the No20 remains well aware that the recovery job is far
from complete yet. He said: "We've had some good results recently and that's
why we need to keep on getting points, to make sure we stay on the good side
[of the table] and keep the positive atmosphere. "The league is so tight and
that's one of the reasons that the Premier League is the best league in the
world.
"You look at Spain and there's three teams at the top, then the fourth is 16
points behind, but here in England it's really close, both at the top and
the bottom.
"That's why you have to perform in every game because nobody is going to
give you points for free."
The Hammers returned to home shores this week after a warm-weather training
camp in Dubai and Demel believes the chance to recharge their batteries will
have clear benefits over the final 12 games of the campaign. He added: "It
was important for the team to go to Dubai and relax a bit. It's the Premier
League, the best in the world, so it's really demanding. Sometimes you need
that few days just to be relaxed to get a fresh mind and come back with the
energy to finish the season strongly. "We did it last year and it worked
really well, so I think it was a good idea. It also makes the team be
together for the team building, so i think it's really important."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Like my dreams - Nicholas Harvey
WHUFC.com
Nicholas Harvey was invited to visit Chadwell Heath as part of the Like My
Dreams initiative
19.02.2014
Nicholas Harvey enjoyed a day to remember when he was invited to spend a day
at the Club's Chadwell Heath training ground as part of West Ham United's
Like My Dreams initiative. The 20-year-old has endured a tough few months
after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma - a type of blood cancer - and
has since been undertaking a debilitating course of chemotherapy. While his
illness means it's difficult for him to attend the Hammers' matches, there
was no stopping Nicholas from making the long journey from Swindon for the
visit to the West Ham training base which took place earlier this month. He
told West Ham TV of his delight at being invited to take part in the day.
"It was a massive, massive boost when I found out about what had been
arranged. Before I found out about this I was heading into the chemotherapy
sessions without any motivation whatsoever to carry on. "It's really, really
tough going. I can be bed bound at the age of 20 for nine, ten days at a
time. The chemotherapy knocks me our big time and when I found out that I'd
be coming to meet some of my idols that I've only seen on TV before, it was
a massive boost, an absolutely huge boost. It's what kept me going over the
past week or so."
Driving through the entrance to Chadwell Heath at 9.30am, Nicholas was
accompanied by father Simon and girlfriend Mercedes who watched as he was
presented with his West Ham training gear shortly after his arrival. Once
changed, Nicholas was taken to the indoor pitch to meet the squad before
they began their activation session. After a group photo and some
autographs, Nicholas was kitted out in Big Sam's coat as he headed outside
to watch the rest of the training session, making for a day which lived up
to his expectations. "My work helped put this together for me, I received an
email from them telling me that they'd arranged for me to come and meet all
the players and coaching staff at West Ham. "They put this together for me
as a light at the end of a pretty dark tunnel at the moment so I've used it
as a motivational tool. It's got me through chemotherapy at the moment and
that was the purpose of the day.
With training finished it was time for lunch and something which wasn't on
the menu had soon been served up to the training ground guest. As Nicholas
sat in the canteen collecting his heroes' signatures, Spanish goalkeeper
Adrian came over to the table and handed the 20-year-old a pair of his
gloves, which he proceeded to sign. A special memento of a special day, a
day which provided a young Hammers fan with memories to cherish. "I've had a
tour of the training ground, seen what it's all about, had a look at what
the players do on a day-to-day basis and their match preparations. It's
amazing. "I've got all their signatures along the way which I'll keep
forever. It's a massive dream come true, definitely. It's been massive, a
really, really enjoyable day."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison loaned to QPR
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison has joined Championship promotion-chasers Queens Park Rangers
on a three-month loan
19.02.2014
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has joined Sky Bet
Championship club Queens Park Rangers on a 93-day emergency loan. The
21-year-old could make his Hoops debut in their London derby at Charlton
Athletic on Saturday, where QPR will hope to end a run of three games
without a win and strengthen their challenge for automatic promotion. A
clause has been included in Morrison's loan agreement that would allow West
Ham to recall the England U21 midfielder after 28 days of his spell at QPR.
The terms of the deal will allow Morrison, who has made 21 first-team
appearances for the Hammers this term, to remain with QPR for the
Championship Play-Offs, should the west London side finish between third and
sixth in the table. Morrison joins a number of players with West Ham
connections at Loftus Road, including goalkeeper Robert Green, midfielders
Gary O'Neil and Yossi Benayoun and forward Bobby Zamora. Current Hammers
forward Modibo Maiga is also on loan at QPR, who are managed by ex-West Ham
player and manager Harry Redknapp.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Carlton Cole
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole is refreshed and ready to go after a week of warm weather
training
19.02.2014
West Ham United striker Carlton Cole feels refreshed and ready to fire after
a productive spell of warm weather training in Dubal. The Hammers made use
of a blank weekend in the fixture calendar to escape the miserable British
winter ahead of Saturday's game against Southampton. Now back in London, the
No24 feels ready to extend West Ham's fine winning streak.
Carlton, we're back training in London after that week in Dubai now - how
was it?
CC: "It was a much needed break for us. I think we deserved it too with our
run of form, to regroup and try and get refreshed for the hard games we've
got coming up."
After the hectic Christmas period and lots of games in January too, how
important was it to have that more relaxed time out there?
CC: "It is important that we went out there to get some warm weather
training. It wasn't a jolly-up, we went out there to work. I didn't know we
had so many fans out there too, so we got to meet them and it was a nice
experience to get all the fellas together and train in the warm weather."
With a few new arrivals at the end of the last transfer window, was it good
for them to get integrated in the team this way?
CC: "It was perfect for them. Obviously Marco and Antonio are used to their
warm weather anyway, and it was nice to be in that kind of climate for them
to get integrated into the team and get to know them as well."
Since Andy Carroll's red card, you and Marco Borriello have been sharing the
striking duties. Has that been good for you to push each other on?
CC: "Yeah, of course. Although I'd like to play more than a half, it's only
fair that we both get a fair share of the games and what the manager has
done so far is change us at half-time. It has worked because we've gone on
to score two goals in both games and keep a clean sheet. That's what we're
doing so well at the moment.
With the defence in the form they are, how helpful is it as a striker to
know that if you nick a goal, it'll more than likely be a winning one?
CC: "That's what we're focusing on and me as a striker, I'm always focusing
on trying to get a goal and soften up the defence. Marco has done a great
job when he's come on for me and our defence has been solid, and it's been
brilliant to win three in a row."
We're at home on Saturday against Southampton and after wins against Norwich
and Swansea do you feel the home form is starting to get there now?
CC: "Yeah of course. I think we played brilliantly against Swansea, and
against Norwich, that was a difficult game in the first half, but we got the
rub of the green and capitalised on a good situation with goals from James
Collins and Mo Diame. We're really in fine form at the moment and hopefully
we can progress and get more.
Just finally, you trained in front of Season Ticket Holders on Tuesday. How
nice is it to reward them with a behind the scenes look at how it all works?
CC: "The fans are very important to us. We need them singing for us because
they're the twelfth man and I really appreciate it when they're singing my
name and the other boys' names. That gives us a great boost."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison: QPR sign West Ham midfielder on loan
BBC.co.uk
Championship side QPR have agreed the signing of West Ham midfielder Ravel
Morrison on a 93-day loan deal. The 21-year-old, who can be recalled by the
Hammers after 28 days, will officially complete the move on Friday. Should
the loan run its course it means Morrison will be eligible to play for
Rangers in the play-offs should they miss out on automatic promotion. "I
just want to help QPR get to the Premier League - that's my objective during
my time here," he said.
"If we manage to do that, it would be great for everybody connected with the
club."
Morrison has made 21 appearances for Premier League West Ham this season,
scoring five goals. The England Under-21 international, who joined the
Hammers from Manchester United in January 2012, has missed out on first-team
action recently after featuring regularly earlier in the campaign. "All I
want to do is play football," he added. "I just want to show everyone what I
can do week in, week out. "The aim here is to get the club promoted and I
want to contribute in helping QPR to get there." Rangers currently lie
fourth in the Championship, four points behind second-placed Burnley.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers coach faces assault charge
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's first team coach Ian Hendon has appeared in court to face
a charge of assault. The 42-year-old, who joined West Ham from Gillingham in
July 2011 appeared at Colchester magistrates' court today where he was
accused of assaulting his now ex-wife in Witham last year. Hendon, whose
lawyer requested that a hearing take place before the end of the season due
to summer commitments with the first team was bailed until April 23, when he
will stand trial. The former defender, who hails from Ilford, enjoyed a
playing career that spanned more than 20 years with clubs such as Orient,
Notts County and Barnet, with whom he ended his career. He also made seven
appearances for England's Under 21s between 1992 and 1993. Having dipped in
and out of management with brief spells at Barnet and Skrill South club
Dover Athletic, Hendon became assistant to Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham
before joining West Ham three years ago this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United sign 12-year-old striker
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
It's no misprint ... Cypriot Odysseas Spyrides, not a teenager until next
year, has joined West Ham United on a youth contract. Spyrides, who was born
in 2002 has moved to England in order to continue his dream of being a
professional footballer having emerged from the Island's
internationally-renowned 'Elite Players' football camp , according to a
report in the Cypriot Mail. The CM reports that Spyrides was one of three
young Cypriot hopefuls who travelled to London last September to take part
in a series of trials. Those ended with Spyrides being snapped up by the
Hammers and another 12-year-old - Charalambos Charalambous - being offered a
contract by Tottenham (which he rejected). Spyrides has since moved to
England on a permanent basis and is hoping to follow in the footsteps of
fellow Cypriot stars such as Ioannis Okkas and Constantinos Charalambidis,
both of whom enjoyed a pro career in mainland Europe. The pre-teen striker
is the youngest player to leave the Island in order to pursue a career
abroad.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The lonely Ranger
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has completed his temporary switch to Championship club
Queens Park Rangers. The 21-year-old Hammer has moved to Loftus Road for the
remainder of the current campaign having fallen out spectacularly with
administrators at the Boleyn Ground. Rangers boss Harry Redknapp told
qpr.co.uk: "Ravel is fit and ready to play and I'm hoping he can come in and
make an impact. He's got fantastic ability, there's no doubting that. "He's
got great pace, can dribble and score a goal. If we can get the best out of
him, he could make a big difference. He's certainly a talented footballer –
he's just got to step up now. He's got to come here and show what he can do
consistently. "He's got everything and we're pleased to have him here."
Meanwhile Morrison himself says he is pleased to have dropped a division in
order to play on a regular basis. "I just want to help QPR get to the
Premier League – that's my only objective during my time here," he said. "If
we manage to do that, it would be great for everybody connected with the
club. "All I want to do is play football. I just want to show everyone what
I can do week in, week out. The aim here is to get the club promoted and I
want to contribute in helping QPR to get there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR sign West Ham's Ravel Morrison on loan until end of season
Last Updated: 19/02/14 1:45pm
SSN
QPR have confirmed the signing of midfielder Ravel Morrison on a 93-day loan
deal from West Ham. Morrison will officially complete the move on Friday and
will stay with the Sky Bet Championship promotion chasers until after the
play-offs in May. The England Under-21 international got off to a fine start
to the season but has since struggled for playing time, making just one
Premier League appearance off the bench since Christmas. "I just want to
help QPR get to the Premier League - that's my only objective during my time
here."
But he is excited about the chance of taking the R's into the top division
and he could make his debut in Saturday's clash away to Charlton. QPR are
currently in fourth place, four points behind second-placed Burnley but with
a game in hand on them and Derby who sit in third. Morrison told QPR's
official website: "I just want to help QPR get to the Premier League -
that's my only objective during my time here. "If we manage to do that, it
would be great for everybody connected with the club. All I want to do is
play football. I just want to show everyone what I can do week in, week out.
"The aim here is to get the club promoted and I want to contribute in
helping QPR to get there."
QPR manager Harry Redknapp is hoping that Morrison can help the Hoops in
their promotion bid. "Ravel is fit and ready to play and I'm hoping he can
come in and make an impact," said Redknapp. "He's got fantastic ability,
there's no doubting that. He's got great pace, can dribble and score a goal.
"If we can get the best out of him, he could make a big difference. "He's
certainly a talented footballer - he's just got to step up now. He's got to
come here and show what he can do consistently. He's got everything. "We're
pleased to have him here."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AGENTS HAVE GROWN ROTTEN WITH GREED, DOUBLE DEALING, LIES AND CHEATING
By Sean Whetstone 19 Feb 2014 at 08:23
West Ham Till I Die
Karren Brady has spoken about the world of agents in her weekly football
diary in The Sun.
Karren said:
"So far every attempt to limit the cut agents take from players from fees
and wages has failed. There is another bus in the distance driven by UEFA,
who are asking Prem clubs what they would think of a maximum three per cent
commission on both. We like it, of course – I'd like one per cent even more.
Currently agents' earnings from transfers in Europe is a staggering 30 per
cent or so and while I would hate to the poor dears without two pennies to
rub together, it really is time to the bus came to a halt. It is important
there is representation for players when vast sums of money are at stake –
but their business has grown rotten with greed, double dealing, lies and
cheating."
West Ham paid agents £4,169,134 and 9 pence between 1st October 2012 to 30th
September 2013 and ranked 9th in terms of agent spend in the Premier League
just behind Manchester United. In the past four years West ham have paid out
£ 17,552,764 and 8 pence to football agents.
In August 2012 David Sullivan told the Daily Mail he had no concerns about
the continuing close links between manager Sam Allardyce and agent Mark
Curtis. Mark Curtis is the agent for Sam Allardyce, Kevin Nolan, James
Tomkins, Jack Collison, Matt Jarvis and Andy Carroll. In the same interview
Sullivan confirmed Willie McKay received more in agency fees than Mark
Curtis in the summer of 2012. He revealed 'Mark [Curtis] receives five per
cent of the player's wages over five years, which is a lot of money but the
standard rate'.
Last year just after the January 2013 transfer window ended, David Sullivan
called for the FA to look into agents' conduct and cap fees. He said:
"I can see it spilling over into violence in the future, unless there is
legislation from the FA. I had an agent threaten me and one of our players
with physical violence, because he thought he was being cut out of a deal."
Sullivan claimed the financial demands by agents had got out of control
adding: "We are talking millions of pounds here around a transfer and not
enough deals to go around. There are too many agents and not enough
transfers to feed them. Agents who would once demand £50,000 for their part
in a transfer now want £500,000 to £1m to either bring a player or keep a
player. It is quite outrageous and the FA should cap the amount paid to
agents for their work"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender impressed by Pablo Armero in training
By Nick Wright
Thursday, February 20, 2014
7:00 AM
London24
Guy Demel has backed West Ham new boy Pablo Armero to make an impact at
Upton Park. Colombia international Armero became the Hammers' third loan
signing of the January transfer window when he joined from Napoli on
deadline day after the arrivals of Italian duo Antonio Nocerino and Marco
Borriello.
The left-back, who can also play on the wing, is yet to make his debut for
Sam Allardyce's side but was an unused substitute in their 2-0 wins over
Norwich and Aston Villa. Demel says Armero is looking sharp in training and
he expects the 27-year-old to shine when he gets his chance. "He's settled a
bit," Demel told London24. "You can see he looks really good on the ball.
He's a good left-footer and a good lad. "On the pitch he's going to be
great, he just needs to get used to the way we play and to the team. "I
think the fans are going to see him some time soon."
The in-form Hammers welcome Southampton to Upton Park on Saturday, when they
will be hoping to extend their run of three consecutive wins and four clean
sheets. Demel was speaking at West Ham's open training session, where season
ticket holders and corporate members were able to watch the first team in
action up close.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender Guy Demel knows the Hammers have to continue at
full-throttle
19.02.2014
Guy Demel is eyeing yet another clean sheet when West Ham United take on
Southampton on Saturday. The Ivorian has helped Sam Allardyce's men shut out
their last four opponents, and a fifth in a row could see them move into the
top half of the Barclays Premier League table. It represents a remarkable
turnaround for the Hammers, who were in the division's bottom three just two
games ago - but the No20 remains well aware that the recovery job is far
from complete yet. He said: "We've had some good results recently and that's
why we need to keep on getting points, to make sure we stay on the good side
[of the table] and keep the positive atmosphere. "The league is so tight and
that's one of the reasons that the Premier League is the best league in the
world.
"You look at Spain and there's three teams at the top, then the fourth is 16
points behind, but here in England it's really close, both at the top and
the bottom.
"That's why you have to perform in every game because nobody is going to
give you points for free."
The Hammers returned to home shores this week after a warm-weather training
camp in Dubai and Demel believes the chance to recharge their batteries will
have clear benefits over the final 12 games of the campaign. He added: "It
was important for the team to go to Dubai and relax a bit. It's the Premier
League, the best in the world, so it's really demanding. Sometimes you need
that few days just to be relaxed to get a fresh mind and come back with the
energy to finish the season strongly. "We did it last year and it worked
really well, so I think it was a good idea. It also makes the team be
together for the team building, so i think it's really important."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Like my dreams - Nicholas Harvey
WHUFC.com
Nicholas Harvey was invited to visit Chadwell Heath as part of the Like My
Dreams initiative
19.02.2014
Nicholas Harvey enjoyed a day to remember when he was invited to spend a day
at the Club's Chadwell Heath training ground as part of West Ham United's
Like My Dreams initiative. The 20-year-old has endured a tough few months
after being diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma - a type of blood cancer - and
has since been undertaking a debilitating course of chemotherapy. While his
illness means it's difficult for him to attend the Hammers' matches, there
was no stopping Nicholas from making the long journey from Swindon for the
visit to the West Ham training base which took place earlier this month. He
told West Ham TV of his delight at being invited to take part in the day.
"It was a massive, massive boost when I found out about what had been
arranged. Before I found out about this I was heading into the chemotherapy
sessions without any motivation whatsoever to carry on. "It's really, really
tough going. I can be bed bound at the age of 20 for nine, ten days at a
time. The chemotherapy knocks me our big time and when I found out that I'd
be coming to meet some of my idols that I've only seen on TV before, it was
a massive boost, an absolutely huge boost. It's what kept me going over the
past week or so."
Driving through the entrance to Chadwell Heath at 9.30am, Nicholas was
accompanied by father Simon and girlfriend Mercedes who watched as he was
presented with his West Ham training gear shortly after his arrival. Once
changed, Nicholas was taken to the indoor pitch to meet the squad before
they began their activation session. After a group photo and some
autographs, Nicholas was kitted out in Big Sam's coat as he headed outside
to watch the rest of the training session, making for a day which lived up
to his expectations. "My work helped put this together for me, I received an
email from them telling me that they'd arranged for me to come and meet all
the players and coaching staff at West Ham. "They put this together for me
as a light at the end of a pretty dark tunnel at the moment so I've used it
as a motivational tool. It's got me through chemotherapy at the moment and
that was the purpose of the day.
With training finished it was time for lunch and something which wasn't on
the menu had soon been served up to the training ground guest. As Nicholas
sat in the canteen collecting his heroes' signatures, Spanish goalkeeper
Adrian came over to the table and handed the 20-year-old a pair of his
gloves, which he proceeded to sign. A special memento of a special day, a
day which provided a young Hammers fan with memories to cherish. "I've had a
tour of the training ground, seen what it's all about, had a look at what
the players do on a day-to-day basis and their match preparations. It's
amazing. "I've got all their signatures along the way which I'll keep
forever. It's a massive dream come true, definitely. It's been massive, a
really, really enjoyable day."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Morrison loaned to QPR
WHUFC.com
Ravel Morrison has joined Championship promotion-chasers Queens Park Rangers
on a three-month loan
19.02.2014
West Ham United can confirm that Ravel Morrison has joined Sky Bet
Championship club Queens Park Rangers on a 93-day emergency loan. The
21-year-old could make his Hoops debut in their London derby at Charlton
Athletic on Saturday, where QPR will hope to end a run of three games
without a win and strengthen their challenge for automatic promotion. A
clause has been included in Morrison's loan agreement that would allow West
Ham to recall the England U21 midfielder after 28 days of his spell at QPR.
The terms of the deal will allow Morrison, who has made 21 first-team
appearances for the Hammers this term, to remain with QPR for the
Championship Play-Offs, should the west London side finish between third and
sixth in the table. Morrison joins a number of players with West Ham
connections at Loftus Road, including goalkeeper Robert Green, midfielders
Gary O'Neil and Yossi Benayoun and forward Bobby Zamora. Current Hammers
forward Modibo Maiga is also on loan at QPR, who are managed by ex-West Ham
player and manager Harry Redknapp.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Carlton Cole
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole is refreshed and ready to go after a week of warm weather
training
19.02.2014
West Ham United striker Carlton Cole feels refreshed and ready to fire after
a productive spell of warm weather training in Dubal. The Hammers made use
of a blank weekend in the fixture calendar to escape the miserable British
winter ahead of Saturday's game against Southampton. Now back in London, the
No24 feels ready to extend West Ham's fine winning streak.
Carlton, we're back training in London after that week in Dubai now - how
was it?
CC: "It was a much needed break for us. I think we deserved it too with our
run of form, to regroup and try and get refreshed for the hard games we've
got coming up."
After the hectic Christmas period and lots of games in January too, how
important was it to have that more relaxed time out there?
CC: "It is important that we went out there to get some warm weather
training. It wasn't a jolly-up, we went out there to work. I didn't know we
had so many fans out there too, so we got to meet them and it was a nice
experience to get all the fellas together and train in the warm weather."
With a few new arrivals at the end of the last transfer window, was it good
for them to get integrated in the team this way?
CC: "It was perfect for them. Obviously Marco and Antonio are used to their
warm weather anyway, and it was nice to be in that kind of climate for them
to get integrated into the team and get to know them as well."
Since Andy Carroll's red card, you and Marco Borriello have been sharing the
striking duties. Has that been good for you to push each other on?
CC: "Yeah, of course. Although I'd like to play more than a half, it's only
fair that we both get a fair share of the games and what the manager has
done so far is change us at half-time. It has worked because we've gone on
to score two goals in both games and keep a clean sheet. That's what we're
doing so well at the moment.
With the defence in the form they are, how helpful is it as a striker to
know that if you nick a goal, it'll more than likely be a winning one?
CC: "That's what we're focusing on and me as a striker, I'm always focusing
on trying to get a goal and soften up the defence. Marco has done a great
job when he's come on for me and our defence has been solid, and it's been
brilliant to win three in a row."
We're at home on Saturday against Southampton and after wins against Norwich
and Swansea do you feel the home form is starting to get there now?
CC: "Yeah of course. I think we played brilliantly against Swansea, and
against Norwich, that was a difficult game in the first half, but we got the
rub of the green and capitalised on a good situation with goals from James
Collins and Mo Diame. We're really in fine form at the moment and hopefully
we can progress and get more.
Just finally, you trained in front of Season Ticket Holders on Tuesday. How
nice is it to reward them with a behind the scenes look at how it all works?
CC: "The fans are very important to us. We need them singing for us because
they're the twelfth man and I really appreciate it when they're singing my
name and the other boys' names. That gives us a great boost."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison: QPR sign West Ham midfielder on loan
BBC.co.uk
Championship side QPR have agreed the signing of West Ham midfielder Ravel
Morrison on a 93-day loan deal. The 21-year-old, who can be recalled by the
Hammers after 28 days, will officially complete the move on Friday. Should
the loan run its course it means Morrison will be eligible to play for
Rangers in the play-offs should they miss out on automatic promotion. "I
just want to help QPR get to the Premier League - that's my objective during
my time here," he said.
"If we manage to do that, it would be great for everybody connected with the
club."
Morrison has made 21 appearances for Premier League West Ham this season,
scoring five goals. The England Under-21 international, who joined the
Hammers from Manchester United in January 2012, has missed out on first-team
action recently after featuring regularly earlier in the campaign. "All I
want to do is play football," he added. "I just want to show everyone what I
can do week in, week out. "The aim here is to get the club promoted and I
want to contribute in helping QPR to get there." Rangers currently lie
fourth in the Championship, four points behind second-placed Burnley.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers coach faces assault charge
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's first team coach Ian Hendon has appeared in court to face
a charge of assault. The 42-year-old, who joined West Ham from Gillingham in
July 2011 appeared at Colchester magistrates' court today where he was
accused of assaulting his now ex-wife in Witham last year. Hendon, whose
lawyer requested that a hearing take place before the end of the season due
to summer commitments with the first team was bailed until April 23, when he
will stand trial. The former defender, who hails from Ilford, enjoyed a
playing career that spanned more than 20 years with clubs such as Orient,
Notts County and Barnet, with whom he ended his career. He also made seven
appearances for England's Under 21s between 1992 and 1993. Having dipped in
and out of management with brief spells at Barnet and Skrill South club
Dover Athletic, Hendon became assistant to Andy Hessenthaler at Gillingham
before joining West Ham three years ago this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United sign 12-year-old striker
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
It's no misprint ... Cypriot Odysseas Spyrides, not a teenager until next
year, has joined West Ham United on a youth contract. Spyrides, who was born
in 2002 has moved to England in order to continue his dream of being a
professional footballer having emerged from the Island's
internationally-renowned 'Elite Players' football camp , according to a
report in the Cypriot Mail. The CM reports that Spyrides was one of three
young Cypriot hopefuls who travelled to London last September to take part
in a series of trials. Those ended with Spyrides being snapped up by the
Hammers and another 12-year-old - Charalambos Charalambous - being offered a
contract by Tottenham (which he rejected). Spyrides has since moved to
England on a permanent basis and is hoping to follow in the footsteps of
fellow Cypriot stars such as Ioannis Okkas and Constantinos Charalambidis,
both of whom enjoyed a pro career in mainland Europe. The pre-teen striker
is the youngest player to leave the Island in order to pursue a career
abroad.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The lonely Ranger
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 19th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has completed his temporary switch to Championship club
Queens Park Rangers. The 21-year-old Hammer has moved to Loftus Road for the
remainder of the current campaign having fallen out spectacularly with
administrators at the Boleyn Ground. Rangers boss Harry Redknapp told
qpr.co.uk: "Ravel is fit and ready to play and I'm hoping he can come in and
make an impact. He's got fantastic ability, there's no doubting that. "He's
got great pace, can dribble and score a goal. If we can get the best out of
him, he could make a big difference. He's certainly a talented footballer –
he's just got to step up now. He's got to come here and show what he can do
consistently. "He's got everything and we're pleased to have him here."
Meanwhile Morrison himself says he is pleased to have dropped a division in
order to play on a regular basis. "I just want to help QPR get to the
Premier League – that's my only objective during my time here," he said. "If
we manage to do that, it would be great for everybody connected with the
club. "All I want to do is play football. I just want to show everyone what
I can do week in, week out. The aim here is to get the club promoted and I
want to contribute in helping QPR to get there."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
QPR sign West Ham's Ravel Morrison on loan until end of season
Last Updated: 19/02/14 1:45pm
SSN
QPR have confirmed the signing of midfielder Ravel Morrison on a 93-day loan
deal from West Ham. Morrison will officially complete the move on Friday and
will stay with the Sky Bet Championship promotion chasers until after the
play-offs in May. The England Under-21 international got off to a fine start
to the season but has since struggled for playing time, making just one
Premier League appearance off the bench since Christmas. "I just want to
help QPR get to the Premier League - that's my only objective during my time
here."
But he is excited about the chance of taking the R's into the top division
and he could make his debut in Saturday's clash away to Charlton. QPR are
currently in fourth place, four points behind second-placed Burnley but with
a game in hand on them and Derby who sit in third. Morrison told QPR's
official website: "I just want to help QPR get to the Premier League -
that's my only objective during my time here. "If we manage to do that, it
would be great for everybody connected with the club. All I want to do is
play football. I just want to show everyone what I can do week in, week out.
"The aim here is to get the club promoted and I want to contribute in
helping QPR to get there."
QPR manager Harry Redknapp is hoping that Morrison can help the Hoops in
their promotion bid. "Ravel is fit and ready to play and I'm hoping he can
come in and make an impact," said Redknapp. "He's got fantastic ability,
there's no doubting that. He's got great pace, can dribble and score a goal.
"If we can get the best out of him, he could make a big difference. "He's
certainly a talented footballer - he's just got to step up now. He's got to
come here and show what he can do consistently. He's got everything. "We're
pleased to have him here."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AGENTS HAVE GROWN ROTTEN WITH GREED, DOUBLE DEALING, LIES AND CHEATING
By Sean Whetstone 19 Feb 2014 at 08:23
West Ham Till I Die
Karren Brady has spoken about the world of agents in her weekly football
diary in The Sun.
Karren said:
"So far every attempt to limit the cut agents take from players from fees
and wages has failed. There is another bus in the distance driven by UEFA,
who are asking Prem clubs what they would think of a maximum three per cent
commission on both. We like it, of course – I'd like one per cent even more.
Currently agents' earnings from transfers in Europe is a staggering 30 per
cent or so and while I would hate to the poor dears without two pennies to
rub together, it really is time to the bus came to a halt. It is important
there is representation for players when vast sums of money are at stake –
but their business has grown rotten with greed, double dealing, lies and
cheating."
West Ham paid agents £4,169,134 and 9 pence between 1st October 2012 to 30th
September 2013 and ranked 9th in terms of agent spend in the Premier League
just behind Manchester United. In the past four years West ham have paid out
£ 17,552,764 and 8 pence to football agents.
In August 2012 David Sullivan told the Daily Mail he had no concerns about
the continuing close links between manager Sam Allardyce and agent Mark
Curtis. Mark Curtis is the agent for Sam Allardyce, Kevin Nolan, James
Tomkins, Jack Collison, Matt Jarvis and Andy Carroll. In the same interview
Sullivan confirmed Willie McKay received more in agency fees than Mark
Curtis in the summer of 2012. He revealed 'Mark [Curtis] receives five per
cent of the player's wages over five years, which is a lot of money but the
standard rate'.
Last year just after the January 2013 transfer window ended, David Sullivan
called for the FA to look into agents' conduct and cap fees. He said:
"I can see it spilling over into violence in the future, unless there is
legislation from the FA. I had an agent threaten me and one of our players
with physical violence, because he thought he was being cut out of a deal."
Sullivan claimed the financial demands by agents had got out of control
adding: "We are talking millions of pounds here around a transfer and not
enough deals to go around. There are too many agents and not enough
transfers to feed them. Agents who would once demand £50,000 for their part
in a transfer now want £500,000 to £1m to either bring a player or keep a
player. It is quite outrageous and the FA should cap the amount paid to
agents for their work"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham defender impressed by Pablo Armero in training
By Nick Wright
Thursday, February 20, 2014
7:00 AM
London24
Guy Demel has backed West Ham new boy Pablo Armero to make an impact at
Upton Park. Colombia international Armero became the Hammers' third loan
signing of the January transfer window when he joined from Napoli on
deadline day after the arrivals of Italian duo Antonio Nocerino and Marco
Borriello.
The left-back, who can also play on the wing, is yet to make his debut for
Sam Allardyce's side but was an unused substitute in their 2-0 wins over
Norwich and Aston Villa. Demel says Armero is looking sharp in training and
he expects the 27-year-old to shine when he gets his chance. "He's settled a
bit," Demel told London24. "You can see he looks really good on the ball.
He's a good left-footer and a good lad. "On the pitch he's going to be
great, he just needs to get used to the way we play and to the team. "I
think the fans are going to see him some time soon."
The in-form Hammers welcome Southampton to Upton Park on Saturday, when they
will be hoping to extend their run of three consecutive wins and four clean
sheets. Demel was speaking at West Ham's open training session, where season
ticket holders and corporate members were able to watch the first team in
action up close.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
Wednesday, February 19
Daily WHUFC News - 19th February 2014
Duo represent England U18s
WHUFC.com
Kyle Knoyle and Reece Burke played as England U18s beat Belgium at St
George's park on Tuesday
18.02.2014
Two of West Ham United's Academy players were involved as England Under-18s
beat Belgium 4-0 at St George's Park on Tuesday afternoon. Reece Burke
played the whole match at centre-back while defensive partner Kyle Knoyle
played 65 minutes at right-back before being substituted. It's not the first
time the pair have represented their country, with both players having
featured for the Three Lions on 14 October 2013 in a 4-0 win against
Hungary. Burke and Knoyle have been regulars for the Academy side this
season and have helped their ascent up the Barclays Under-18 Premier League
in recent weeks. This season has also seen a first team debut for Burke who
appeared from the substitutes bench against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup
with Budweiser third round.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian's Wall
WHUFC.com
Adrian and his defensive partners will be looking for another clean sheet
this weekend
18.02.2014
West Ham United boast the highest number of clean sheets in the Barclays
Premier League this season and will be looking for another when they
entertain Southampton on Saturday. Last Tuesday's shutout against Norwich
City was the Hammers' fourth in succession - their best run of clean sheets
since the Boys of '86 season. Adrian has been a key part of the defensive
solidity - ably assisted by his 'wall' in front of him - and you could be
there this weekend to see the Hammers as they look to extend their fine run.
Tickets are available for the match from www.whufcboxoffice.com - with adult
prices starting at £37 for members (£42 non-member) and just £24 concessions
(£14 Youth Academy Members). Adrian said: "It's only my job! It's my job to
stop everything. Four in a row is really, really difficult in the Premier
League and I am really happy. We have to keep going in this direction. "As a
goalkeeper, when you have confidence, confidence in the manager and in the
other players, you are happy on the pitch. Sometimes I have to help my
teammates and other times, not too much, but against Norwich I made three or
four saves to help the team. "It's really, really amazing. The clean sheets
are important for the team and it's even more important for me, because I'm
the goalkeeper.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce reiterates the need for a winter break
Last Updated: 18/02/14 4:30pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has reiterated calls for a mid-season break
despite an upsurge in form from his side. The Hammers, who have been on a
warm-weather training trip to Dubai, have won their last three Premier
League games and kept four clean sheets in a row to help them move up into
mid-table. Although results have gone the Londoners' way in January,
Allardyce has again expressed his belief that there should be a winter
break. "I've said for many, many years that our country needs to close down
at some stage in mid-season for a few days. I think the data and the stats
prove that," he told Sky Sports. "The rest of Europe do it but we, because
of our fixture list, find it impossible to do which is obviously putting
players at greater risk. "I've been doing it for 12-13 years now and
everything when you come back indicates that it's the right thing to do." If
you look at the injury count over Christmas and New Year, it's shot up
immensely because of the extra games in that particular period. "With all
the data and the period of time, the Premier League feel they can't fit it
in, so as a manager I have to find the time to fit it in and find the
opportunity to take my players away. "I've been doing it for 12-13 years now
and everything when you come back indicates that it's the right thing to do.
"You get an increase in fitness, you get an increase in output and hopefully
that helps you get an increase in results so let's hope it works this time."
Asked if anything has changed in the Hammers' camp following their upturn in
fortunes, Allardyce replied: "Nothing special really. Just getting the
players fit again. "There were that many players devastated by injury it
became very difficult for us to compete at this level of football. "We
always felt that once we got those players fit again that they would
increase that level of performance and of course new players coming in the
(January) window has helped us and that's why results have got better."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WINSTON REID - A LITMUS TEST OF RESOLVE AND AMBITION
By S J Chandos 18 Feb 2014 at 12:00
West Ham Till I Die
There are lingering rumours in the media that Arsenal have made Winston Reid
a £8m priority transfer target for the summer. These rumours originally
commenced before Reid picked up his ankle injury and it was anticipated that
a approach would be made in the winter transfer window. As far as I am
aware, Wenger has never actually confirmed an interest in signing the
player, but who could blame him if he was interested. Winston Reid is a top
class central defender and a leader on the pitch.
That last statement is one that most Hammers fans would now warmly endorse.
However, that was not always the case and many will clearly recall his
deeply unconvincing debut season of 2010-11. A (undisclosed fee) signing
from Danish club, FC Midtjylland, Winston had a disastrous PL debut, in an
abject 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa, and went on to make a mere 12 first team
appearances throughout that relegation season. At the time, Reid's signing
was often put forward as evidence of yet another negative aspect of the
Avram Grant managerial regime. Yet Ironically, over time the contrary has
proven true, Reid's capture is the one major positive legacy of Grant's
period of management.
Reid stayed with the club in the Championship and rebuilt his confidence and
reputation with some outstanding defensive displays. In that 2011-12
promotion season, He flourished under Sam Allardyce's management and become
a regular first teamer, as the club were promoted 'at the first time of
asking' via the Play-off Final victory over Blackpool. There were some who
thought that he may have just found his level and that he would struggle on
the club's return to the top flight. All such thoughts were dispelled by
Reid's outstanding performances last season, as the Hammers secured a very
creditable 10th place finish. And he started the current, 2013-14 season, in
a similiar vein, until an ankle injury, sustained in training, in November
2013 resulted in a three month absence. It is no coincidence that the West
Ham's results seriously declined with Reid's absence and his return on 1
February 2014 was certainly a factor directly contributing to our recent
revival.
Winston Reid is an excellent all-round defender, strong in the air and the
tackle, with good positional sense and distribution and a decent turn of
pace. Moreover, he demonstrates good leadership qualities and could very
well be a future club captain. He always strikes one as a dedicated
professional, who works on his game and seeks continual improvement. It is a
great testimony to the player that he forewent the opportunity to play for
New Zealand in their 2012 Olympics team and instead chose to participate in
West Ham's pre-season. It is also to his credit that he so successfully
manages the periodic long haul trips to play for his country, without it
seeming to adversely impact upon his West Ham performances.
At 25 years of age, Reid has not yet reached his peak as a central defender.
He can only get better and must be one of the key building blocks that we
use to build a team worthy of West Ham's move to the iconic Olympic Stadium.
If the previously expressed ambitions of the board are to be believed, that
they wish to incrementally build a top class team, then Reid must be signed
on a new long-term contract. The rumours are that Arsenal are prepared to
offer £8m for Reid, a figure that does not nearly compensate for the loss of
such an important player. There is further conjecture that a raised bid of
£10m plus could convince the club to accept the bid. Once again, so
influential is Reid, even an increased fee of that level would be a
sufficient catalyst to justify a deal.
The West Ham board should not wait for Arsenal, or anyone else, to submit a
bid. They should, as a matter of urgency, sign him on a new improved,
long-term deal and kill off their interest. We need to show ambition and
build a team that can compete for honours and Champions League football. If
we are to do that then we must keep our best players as a foundation upon
which to build. Only in that way can we hope to challenge for a top six
finish and eventually aspire to Champions qualification. It is always
difficult when a top four side shows an interest in one of your players,
particularly in terms of managing the player's ambitions. Champions League
football is of great attraction for most players and one can fully
understand that. However, Reid is a good professional, who has hitherto
shown considerable commitment to the club. As such, it should be possible to
sell him an improved deal, linked to the club's future ambitions and his
central role in achieving them.
To me, retaining Reid is a litmus test of the board's prior rhetoric about
its future ambitions. I am not totally sure about Winston Reid's current
contract position. But some sources state that he will be entering the final
year of his current contract in 2014-15. If that is true, then West Ham
should seek to get a new contract in place now, as a matter of urgency. One
may well question whether Reid would sign before West Ham's PL status is
secure this season? If necessary, offer a new contract with a transfer
clause in the event of relegation, if that is what it takes to get his
signature on a new contract ahead of the conclusion of the current campaign.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
Kyle Knoyle and Reece Burke played as England U18s beat Belgium at St
George's park on Tuesday
18.02.2014
Two of West Ham United's Academy players were involved as England Under-18s
beat Belgium 4-0 at St George's Park on Tuesday afternoon. Reece Burke
played the whole match at centre-back while defensive partner Kyle Knoyle
played 65 minutes at right-back before being substituted. It's not the first
time the pair have represented their country, with both players having
featured for the Three Lions on 14 October 2013 in a 4-0 win against
Hungary. Burke and Knoyle have been regulars for the Academy side this
season and have helped their ascent up the Barclays Under-18 Premier League
in recent weeks. This season has also seen a first team debut for Burke who
appeared from the substitutes bench against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup
with Budweiser third round.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian's Wall
WHUFC.com
Adrian and his defensive partners will be looking for another clean sheet
this weekend
18.02.2014
West Ham United boast the highest number of clean sheets in the Barclays
Premier League this season and will be looking for another when they
entertain Southampton on Saturday. Last Tuesday's shutout against Norwich
City was the Hammers' fourth in succession - their best run of clean sheets
since the Boys of '86 season. Adrian has been a key part of the defensive
solidity - ably assisted by his 'wall' in front of him - and you could be
there this weekend to see the Hammers as they look to extend their fine run.
Tickets are available for the match from www.whufcboxoffice.com - with adult
prices starting at £37 for members (£42 non-member) and just £24 concessions
(£14 Youth Academy Members). Adrian said: "It's only my job! It's my job to
stop everything. Four in a row is really, really difficult in the Premier
League and I am really happy. We have to keep going in this direction. "As a
goalkeeper, when you have confidence, confidence in the manager and in the
other players, you are happy on the pitch. Sometimes I have to help my
teammates and other times, not too much, but against Norwich I made three or
four saves to help the team. "It's really, really amazing. The clean sheets
are important for the team and it's even more important for me, because I'm
the goalkeeper.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce reiterates the need for a winter break
Last Updated: 18/02/14 4:30pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has reiterated calls for a mid-season break
despite an upsurge in form from his side. The Hammers, who have been on a
warm-weather training trip to Dubai, have won their last three Premier
League games and kept four clean sheets in a row to help them move up into
mid-table. Although results have gone the Londoners' way in January,
Allardyce has again expressed his belief that there should be a winter
break. "I've said for many, many years that our country needs to close down
at some stage in mid-season for a few days. I think the data and the stats
prove that," he told Sky Sports. "The rest of Europe do it but we, because
of our fixture list, find it impossible to do which is obviously putting
players at greater risk. "I've been doing it for 12-13 years now and
everything when you come back indicates that it's the right thing to do." If
you look at the injury count over Christmas and New Year, it's shot up
immensely because of the extra games in that particular period. "With all
the data and the period of time, the Premier League feel they can't fit it
in, so as a manager I have to find the time to fit it in and find the
opportunity to take my players away. "I've been doing it for 12-13 years now
and everything when you come back indicates that it's the right thing to do.
"You get an increase in fitness, you get an increase in output and hopefully
that helps you get an increase in results so let's hope it works this time."
Asked if anything has changed in the Hammers' camp following their upturn in
fortunes, Allardyce replied: "Nothing special really. Just getting the
players fit again. "There were that many players devastated by injury it
became very difficult for us to compete at this level of football. "We
always felt that once we got those players fit again that they would
increase that level of performance and of course new players coming in the
(January) window has helped us and that's why results have got better."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WINSTON REID - A LITMUS TEST OF RESOLVE AND AMBITION
By S J Chandos 18 Feb 2014 at 12:00
West Ham Till I Die
There are lingering rumours in the media that Arsenal have made Winston Reid
a £8m priority transfer target for the summer. These rumours originally
commenced before Reid picked up his ankle injury and it was anticipated that
a approach would be made in the winter transfer window. As far as I am
aware, Wenger has never actually confirmed an interest in signing the
player, but who could blame him if he was interested. Winston Reid is a top
class central defender and a leader on the pitch.
That last statement is one that most Hammers fans would now warmly endorse.
However, that was not always the case and many will clearly recall his
deeply unconvincing debut season of 2010-11. A (undisclosed fee) signing
from Danish club, FC Midtjylland, Winston had a disastrous PL debut, in an
abject 3-0 defeat to Aston Villa, and went on to make a mere 12 first team
appearances throughout that relegation season. At the time, Reid's signing
was often put forward as evidence of yet another negative aspect of the
Avram Grant managerial regime. Yet Ironically, over time the contrary has
proven true, Reid's capture is the one major positive legacy of Grant's
period of management.
Reid stayed with the club in the Championship and rebuilt his confidence and
reputation with some outstanding defensive displays. In that 2011-12
promotion season, He flourished under Sam Allardyce's management and become
a regular first teamer, as the club were promoted 'at the first time of
asking' via the Play-off Final victory over Blackpool. There were some who
thought that he may have just found his level and that he would struggle on
the club's return to the top flight. All such thoughts were dispelled by
Reid's outstanding performances last season, as the Hammers secured a very
creditable 10th place finish. And he started the current, 2013-14 season, in
a similiar vein, until an ankle injury, sustained in training, in November
2013 resulted in a three month absence. It is no coincidence that the West
Ham's results seriously declined with Reid's absence and his return on 1
February 2014 was certainly a factor directly contributing to our recent
revival.
Winston Reid is an excellent all-round defender, strong in the air and the
tackle, with good positional sense and distribution and a decent turn of
pace. Moreover, he demonstrates good leadership qualities and could very
well be a future club captain. He always strikes one as a dedicated
professional, who works on his game and seeks continual improvement. It is a
great testimony to the player that he forewent the opportunity to play for
New Zealand in their 2012 Olympics team and instead chose to participate in
West Ham's pre-season. It is also to his credit that he so successfully
manages the periodic long haul trips to play for his country, without it
seeming to adversely impact upon his West Ham performances.
At 25 years of age, Reid has not yet reached his peak as a central defender.
He can only get better and must be one of the key building blocks that we
use to build a team worthy of West Ham's move to the iconic Olympic Stadium.
If the previously expressed ambitions of the board are to be believed, that
they wish to incrementally build a top class team, then Reid must be signed
on a new long-term contract. The rumours are that Arsenal are prepared to
offer £8m for Reid, a figure that does not nearly compensate for the loss of
such an important player. There is further conjecture that a raised bid of
£10m plus could convince the club to accept the bid. Once again, so
influential is Reid, even an increased fee of that level would be a
sufficient catalyst to justify a deal.
The West Ham board should not wait for Arsenal, or anyone else, to submit a
bid. They should, as a matter of urgency, sign him on a new improved,
long-term deal and kill off their interest. We need to show ambition and
build a team that can compete for honours and Champions League football. If
we are to do that then we must keep our best players as a foundation upon
which to build. Only in that way can we hope to challenge for a top six
finish and eventually aspire to Champions qualification. It is always
difficult when a top four side shows an interest in one of your players,
particularly in terms of managing the player's ambitions. Champions League
football is of great attraction for most players and one can fully
understand that. However, Reid is a good professional, who has hitherto
shown considerable commitment to the club. As such, it should be possible to
sell him an improved deal, linked to the club's future ambitions and his
central role in achieving them.
To me, retaining Reid is a litmus test of the board's prior rhetoric about
its future ambitions. I am not totally sure about Winston Reid's current
contract position. But some sources state that he will be entering the final
year of his current contract in 2014-15. If that is true, then West Ham
should seek to get a new contract in place now, as a matter of urgency. One
may well question whether Reid would sign before West Ham's PL status is
secure this season? If necessary, offer a new contract with a transfer
clause in the event of relegation, if that is what it takes to get his
signature on a new contract ahead of the conclusion of the current campaign.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
Tuesday, February 18
Daily WHUFC News - 18th February 2014
A fitting farewell to the Boleyn Ground
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are calling on supporters to offer their views on a fitting
finale for the Boleyn Ground
17.02.2014
As West Ham United prepare for a future at the Olympic Stadium, the Club are
pressing on with plans to finalise a fitting farewell to the Club's home of
110 years. With two-and-a-half years to give the Boleyn Ground the perfect
send-off, the Hammers are calling on supporters to leave their mark on
proceedings.
The Hammers' Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) members have already got the
ball rolling and this is your chance to tell them how you envisage the
Club's final Upton Park season taking shape. So should you know an SAB
member and would like to share your ideas and memories, please get in touch
with them. During a recent meeting, the SAB discussed the prospect of themed
matches for each and every game of the final season and the celebrations
surrounding the very last game. The Club is also collating opinion on a
grand final-curtain event. Meanwhile, the SAB showed a great deal of
interest in the auction of Boleyn Ground memorabilia, as well as
commemorative tours in the final season. As it stands, the SAB has already
offered the following suggestions and the Club is keen to compile many more.
· A countdown clock in the Boleyn, ticking down to the first whistle of the
final game.
· Breaking the world record for the most people simultaneously blowing
bubbles on the last day at the Boleyn.
· A commemorative programme similar to the very first ever issued.
· Guard of honour of both former and current players as part of the last
moments at the Boleyn.
As expected, there were differing views on how exactly the final Boleyn
Ground game might shape up and similarly on the look of a commemorative home
shirt. With that in mind, the wider consultation of the fan base is even
more important, so make sure your voice is heard.
For the full report of the SAB's last meeting, click here, while the
Farewell to the Boleyn Ground focus group is set to reconvene on Tuesday 25
February. Future consultation topics will include:
· What would supporters like the commemorative kit to look like? Should it
be the traditional claret and blue or a limited edition kit?
· Suggestions on possible themed matches, allowing supporters to vote for
their favourites.
· Detailed list of what Boleyn Ground tours should include in the lead-up to
the move.
· Begin to outline and elaborate on plans for a closing ceremony at the
Boleyn Ground.
· Thoughts on how the Club can best collate fan stories and memories through
the years at the Boleyn.
· Conduct a detailed discussion of possible items to be included in the
auction.
The SAB is your platform and the Club looks forward to hearing from as many
supporters as possible in the coming weeks and months,not least with the
prospect of celebrating the Club's 120th anniversary next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca looking forward to Open Training
WHUFC.com
West Ham United assistant boss is looking forward to welcoming Season Ticket
Holders to training
17.02.2014
West Ham United will swap their warm-weather training camp for a setting
closer to home when they host an exclusive open training session for Season
Ticket Holders and Corporate Members at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday. The
Hammers will train in front of the fans as the preparations for Saturday's
Barclays Premier League clash with Southampton continue. Gates open at 10am,
with training scheduled to begin at 10.30am, and assistant boss Neil
McDonald is looking forward to allowing the supporters a behind-the-scenes
look at how the first team squad prepares for a game. McDonald said: "The
fans have been fantastic, even when we haven't been performing to where we
thought we would. They stood by the team, so it's great that our form is
improving as it sends people home with smiles on their faces. "We'll try and
show them what we do, all the way from pre warm-up to warm-up, a little bit
of possession and finishing. It just gives them a little outline of how we
work."
McDonald believes the week of training in Dubai has set his team up for a
strong end to the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League campaign. The Hammers have
visited the Middle East for similar trips the last two years, with promotion
to the Premier League and a top-half finish last season being secured upon
their return to action. "I thought it was a great camp," he continued. "It
was perfect timing for us, as leading up to the last few weeks, we hadn't
been getting good results, so fixing the trip up in itself had a motivation
for the lads as they had something to look forward to. "We got some good
results, beating Norwich, Aston Villa and Swansea, and drawing with Chelsea.
The results have been fantastic over the last three or four weeks and that's
just cemented the good week we had in Dubai. Hopefully we can get the same
results when we come back. "We hope this trip has a positive impact on
results like it has done the previous two seasons. Everybody coming back
from injury has given everyone a boost. The signings that the manager has
made have done the same and there's lots of competition for places. "That's
certainly shown at the moment - we have Winston Reid who was at the heart of
the defence before who can't get in the team because we're keeping clean
sheets and playing well. "The bar has been set a little bit higher, which is
great, and everybody is full of confidence - that has shown on the field in
the last four games. When the confidence comes back everyone performs that
little bit better and everyone has a smile on their face.
"Certainly Dubai has made everyone happier too, because it was beautiful
weather, we were staying in a beautiful place and training was at a
fantastic facility, so hopefully that will kick us on for the rest of the
season."
The Hammers made the most of the conditions in Dubai to train with the sun
on their backs and McDonald says the benefits will be both physical and
mental in nature. He continued: "You can see from the photographs that we
were able to train in t-shirts and shorts. The weather, as everybody knows,
has been horrendous at home over the last few weeks, so it has been good for
them to get some vitamin D in their bodies. "We were still doing a little
bit of technical work and work in the gym. It was time for them to relax
their aching bodies, because the majority of them have played a lot of games
over the Christmas and January periods."
West Ham returned to London on Sunday, although Andy Carroll and Joey
O'Brien remained in Dubai for additional warm-weather work as they remain
unavailable for first team selection due to suspension and injury
respectively. McDonald explained: "With Joey's shoulder injury, it's good
for him to do some work in the sea. It's good for him to have the sun on his
back when he's working, so that will try to cheer him up because you know
what players are like when they're injured. He's been out with the rest of
the lads and that's fantastic for him. "For Andy it's just a continuation of
his rehabilitation, really. He's worked very, very hard to get himself fit
and he's made an impact since coming back. "Unfortunately he got sent-off
against Swansea, and we still can't believe that happened. He's still got
one more game of his suspension against Southampton, so we decided to leave
him out there with the rehab fitness coach Eduardo Garcia. He's there with
both of them to do some work in the sun, and Andy will come back ready and
raring to go for Everton."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The public gets what the public wants
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Referee Mark Clattenburg is to take charge of West Ham United's Premier
League clash with Southampton this weekend - his first Saints appointment
since they filed a complaint against him last year.
The south coast club reported Clattenburg to the Professional Game Match
Officials Board back in December when it was claimed he told Saints captain
Adam Lallana: "You are very different now, since you've played for England -
you never used to be like this". The complaint was later dismissed by the
FA.
It will also be the first time that Clattenberg - who West Ham supporters
ironically chanted for during the 3-1 victory against Chelsea in December
2012 - has officiated a United game since New Years' Day, when he dismissed
Kevin Nolan in the 2-1 defeat at Fulham. That was the most recent incident
in a long charge sheet for Clattenburg where the Hammers are concerned.
On New Years' Day 2013, the Durham official angered Norwich boss Chris
Hughton for refusing to either of two penalty appeals - correctly, so it was
later proved - in a 2-1 win for the Hammers at the Boleyn Ground. Earlier
that season he was criticised for being "card happy" when booking ten
players in a 2-1 win for West Ham at QPR.
In 2010 Clattenburg left fans questioning his parentage on no less than
three occasions. A 4-0 Carling Cup quarter final win against Manchester
United would have been even more emphatic had he spotted a clear foul on
substitute Zavon Hines in the game's closing stages, whilst his decision to
rule out Freddie Piquionne's perfectly legal injury time 'winner' at Wolves
baffled many.
The FA Cup 3rd round tie with Arsenal in January at that year also ended
controversially when Clattenburg ignored a clear infringement on Alessandro
Diamanti with the score at 0-0. West Ham went on to lose the game 2-1.
Clattenburg had previously left Gianfranco Zola fuming during a 3-3 draw at
Hull in November 2009 when awarding a soft penalty against Julien Faubert -
though Zola's mood improved somewhat when the 38-year-old failed to spot a
far worse offence by Matthew Upson later in the same game. Zola was less
forgiving three months previously when Clattenburg refused to award a
penalty when Luis Jimenez was tripped inside the box by Spurs' Essou-Ekotto.
Lee Bowyer was another victim of Clattenburg's back in 2008, when he was
dismissed for what appeared to be an innocuous challenge during a 1-1 draw
against Birmingham. The FA agreed and rescinded the card on appeal.
Then-manager Alan Curbishley had also criticised the referee in January of
that year for denying Bowyer (again) a clear penalty at Manchester City.
West Ham's biggest away win in recent years - a 5-0 thrashing of Derby
County at Pride Park back in 2007 - was also marred (very slightly,
admittedly) by Clattenburg's decision to award a free kick instead of a
penalty when Luis Boa Morte was felled inside the area during the first
half.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Getting mean
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham required 17 points from their remaining 12 Premier League fixtures
to match the mean number of points accrued by the Club in the Premier League
since the turn of the century.
The Hammers have spent ten seasons in the top flight since 2000, since when
the various teams - managed by Harry Redknapp, Glenn Roeder, Alan Pardew,
Alan Curbishley, Gianfranco Zola, Avram Grant and now Sam Allardyce - have
averaged 45 points over the course of the campaign with an average
13th-place finish.
Currently, West Ham have accrued 28 points from their first 26 games, just
slightly lower than the average tally of 30 points (with an average position
of 14th) for the same period at this stage.
However Sam Allardyce will be hoping his team can continue their excellent
recent form, which has earned West Ham ten vital points from their last four
outings - keeping clean sheets in all four - for the remainder of the
2013/14 season.
In order to achieve the average points tally of 45, West Ham need to take
1.4 points per game for the remainder of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Go on my sun!
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be hoping the mid-season trip to Dubai will have a
similar effect on his team's fortunes to that in the last two seasons. Since
first making the now-annual trip with his squad at the end of February 2012,
Allardyce's West Ham have posted generally favourable results immediately
after returning to the UK. Two years ago, when still a Championship side,
the Hammers returned from Dubai at the end of February before embarking on a
seven-match unbeaten run that finally ended with a 4-2 home defeat against
Reading on the final day of March - the only defeat they suffered prior to
the end of the campaign. And last year the Hammers guaranteed their Premier
League place thanks to another decent run of form that followed the trip.
Despite losing 3-2 at home to Spurs - thanks to a last-minute Gareth Bale
'worldy' - in their first game back on British soil, only one of the seven
subsequent fixtures was to end in defeat (a 2-0 reversal at Chelsea) as West
Ham went on the secure a top ten finish in their first season back in the
top flight. Speaking about the 2011/12 promotion push last year, Allardyce
recalled: "We had a fantastic finish to the season and I still think the
trip that we had at this time last year was a big benefit in the end for
getting us promoted into the Premier League. "Nearly everybody does it today
which obviously is a benefit to you and the team, and the results when you
come back."
Allardyce will be hoping his team can emulate that form in the next few
weeks, when Southampton (h), Everton (a), Hull City (h) and Stoke (a) await.
West Ham are currently 11th in the Premier League with 28 points from 26
games - just two points shy of last season's tally at the same stage.
First five back
How a rejuvenated West Ham performed after returning from Dubai
2011/12 (February 2012)
Spurs (h) 2-3
Stoke (a) 1-0
Chelsea (a) 0-2
West Brom (h) 3-1
Liverpool (a) 0-0
2012/13 (February 2013)
Cardiff (a) 2-0
Watford (h) 1-1
Doncaser (h) 1-1
Leeds Utd (a) 1-1
Middlesbrough (h) 1-1
2013/14 (February 2014)
Southampton (h)
Everton (a)
Hull City (h)
Stoke City (a)
Man Utd (h)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio Nocerino joined West Ham to aid World Cup push
Last Updated: 17/02/14 4:00pm
SSN
Antonio Nocerino is hoping to enjoy a productive loan spell at West Ham
United and force his way into Italy's World Cup squad. The combative
midfielder completed a move from AC Milan towards the end of the January
transfer window and will see out the season at Upton Park. He has been eased
into English football by Hammers boss Sam Allardyce, making four substitute
appearances so far. It is the 28-year-old's intention to soon step off the
bench and into the starting XI, with a desire to take in regular football
having driven his switch from Serie A. Nocerino believes that if he can
convince Allardyce that he is deserving of a prominent role in his Premier
League plans, than a seat on the plane to Brazil this summer could also be
within his reach. A man who has been capped on 15 occasions by his country
told Radio Deejay: "I hope this spell with help me get back into the Italian
squad. "One of the reasons I came to West Ham and to the Premier League is
to play on a regular basis. "My first objective is to play for West Ham and
help the club move up the table. "From that, if I am playing well and I get
picked to go to the World Cup in Brazil, that will be an added bonus."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
INTERVIEW: JONJO HEUERMAN - A TRUE INSPIRATION.
By ExWHUemployee 17 Feb 2014 at 22:05
West ham Till I Die
"Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes
life meaningful". –Joshua J. Marine.
I like to think I set myself challenges and that I have met the majority
that I have. However, I have never set challenges as great as Jonjo Heuerman
or achieved as much as he has and all by the age of 12. I have followed
Jonjo's work from the very start as he raises money for charities very close
to my own heart and of course is a fellow Hammer. As Jonjo is about to
embark on his next challenge on Tuesday 18th Feb, I thought it was the
perfect time to ask him some questions and find out more about his work.
I am sure most people who follow West Ham know of your work but could you
please tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am 12 years old and I was my Nanny's only grandson when she passed away
from bowel cancer. I started secondary school in September and I have only
just told my school that I fundraise. I like to keep my school life and my
friends separate from my fundraising. I really like meeting people and I
love football.
What else do you like to do when you are not raising money?
I love to be at West Ham United, I have been a season ticket holder since I
was 4 years old. I also collect 1966 World Cup and West Ham United football
memorabilia. I'm just a normal kid and I do normal things. I play on my Xbox
and I love to play football and see my friends. My favourite time is playing
football with my dog. She is a great goalkeeper. I am really interested in
cooking and I would like to be a chef when I am older.
Which charities do you raise money for?
I fund raise for The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK. I chose this
charity because my Nanny and Bobby Moore both died from bowel cancer.
When and how did your charity work start?
When my Nanny died my sister did some fundraising. She raised £10,000 for
our local hospice. I watched what she did and I helped her. I wanted to do
something for my Nanny's memory too so I asked my Mum if I could walk from
Wembley to West Ham United. She is not very good at directions and she
thought because they were in London they were close. My first walk took me 3
days and was 27 miles and I way 9 years old. I started on my own with my
family and I was on TV a lot and when I finished lots of people came to walk
with me.
I do my walk every year in February half term because it's the same week as
my Nanny and Bobby's anniversary. People from around the world come to walk
with me and people send me angel names of people who they lost to cancer
too. I put all the names on my walk Tshirt and I read out the names on the
last day of my challenge at a special memorial ceremony. I have walked
almost 200 miles now for nearly 300 angels. I also help by organising events
all year too.
Can you tell me about some of your biggest fundraising events?
My biggest event was The Big Football Tag. I asked every one of the 92
English Football League club captains to give me a signed captains armband.
I then organised a tag event where fans from each club took their club
captain's armband to the next club in the tag. The armbands were attached to
sashes with GPS trackers attached. On the first day of my 2013 challenge I
waited at the gates of Upton Park to wait for the armbands to arrive on foot
and to tag me. It was amazing, from all around the country they came and
within half an hour I had every armband. I carried them to Wembley to get
the England captain's armband for Bobby and bring it back to Upton Park. My
walk took me 6 days and I walked 66 miles. All of the armbands are being
auctioned for the charity.
I have seen many West Ham greats and other famous people support your work,
have you any special memories from any dealings with them?
I was invited to meet David Cameron at Downing Street. That was pretty
special. He is an Aston Villa supporter and I told him he supported the
wrong claret and blue and he thought it was funny. Speaking at events at the
House of Lords was great too.
I have met Billy Bonds a lot and last time he was telling me off for not
eating properly. I am a really bad eater and he was trying to get me to eat
chicken with him. He made me promise and to train properly for my challenge.
All of The Boys of 86 are kind to me and is the first team squad, the owners
and staff at West Ham too. A lot of celebrity fans follow me on Twitter and
they are kind too and Stephanie Moore is very proud of me. I have had a
great time meeting people.
You are due to start another event this Tuesday, could you tell me more
about it?
I am starting a 50 mile 5 day football dribble from the centre circle of
Southend United to the centre circle of West Ham United before kick off
against Southampton. I start the day after my nanny's anniversary and I
finish the day before Bobby's anniversary. I have two footballs and I am
inviting people to come and dribble with me. Lots of people are joining in
and I am trying to raise £50,000 for The Bobby Moore Fund.
How can readers support you and contribute to the cause?
They can support me by visiting my Website and buying my charity badges and
wristbands or by donating on JustGiving or by coming and joining in. I am
trying to get fans to walk the last mile with me – One Moore Mile. They can
meet me at the junction of Romford Road and Green Street on 22nd February
2014 at 1:30pm. There is a lot of information about my challenge on my
website and I will be wearing a GPS tracker so people can watch my progress
or find me to join in. There are maps on my website too.
If fans cannot walk with me they can meet me at the Barking Road statue at
2pm on 22nd February for my memorial service. There is a lot of people
coming and it's going to be really special this year. They can also follow
me on Facebook and Twitter. I like reading the messages on there because it
encourages me.
What are your future ambitions?
I want to be a chef and I want to keep fundraising and help find a cure one
day. I am walking in Ireland in April and I have been asked to walk to The
Vatican, and to walk in New York but I don't know how or when because of my
school work.
Is there anything you would like to say to the readers out there?
I want to say a big thank you to West Ham fans and the club for helping me.
I have raised £150,000 so far and the charity estimates that I have
generated over £1m in awareness too and I couldn't do it without lots of
help. Thank you for helping me Make Bobby Proud
I would really like to thank Jonjo for taking the time to answer these
questions for me, the day before such a big event. I am sure, like me, you
find his work inspirational and would encourage you all to support Jonjo and
help him reach his fundraising targets. Good luck Jonjo from the West Ham
family!!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: THE PLAN TO BECOME DEBT FREE BEFORE WE MOVE
By Sean Whetstone 17 Feb 2014 at 08:46
West Ham Till I Die
When the recent West Ham company accounts were published it showed an
outstanding bank debt of £44m in 2013. The re-financing of that debt on 1st
July last year appears to have reduced the current bank debt from £44m to
£32m not including the £5m short term season pay day loan from Vibrac. The
new refinancing deal was secured as a mortgage against the Boleyn Ground and
the other freehold land held by the club. The terms of the new loans are the
bank debts need to be paid off or refinanced by the end of 2016.
Interestingly the new bankers are named as CB Holding ehf and David Sullivan
replacing the previous syndicate of five banks from the Icelandic days.
I can exclusive reveal the terms of the re-financing deal for the first
time.
In May/June 2013 David Sullivan bought a further 25% of the shares in the
club from CB holdings on condition they used the money David paid them to
loan back to the club to replace the main bank debt for 3 years by paying
off the existing bankers. David Sullivan paid £25.5m for these shares which
ultimately ended back in the club to refinance the bank debt. However, there
remained a 15% hole of £3.8m in cash needed to pay off the syndicate of five
banks, so David Sullivan personally took 15% of the main bank debt so that
it could be paid off. It was the only way it could be done as no other banks
were prepared to loan us the money. Effectively, David Sullivan become one
of our bankers and is named as such in the 2013 financial accounts. It means
he invested another £25.5m last year on top of the £10.5m Gold and himself
loaned the club last season as shareholder loans. CB Holdings have also
loaned West ham £6.7m to take the total bank debt to £32.2m.
With the sale of the Boleyn ground announced last week the chairmen have a
plan to be almost debt free by May 2016 when we move to the Olympic Stadium.
The current plan is to pay off £5m per year off the bank debt over the next
two remaining years at the Boleyn. This reduces the bank debt to £22m by
which time we will need to move out and pay off the loans secured against
the Boleyn ground. The proceeds of the sale of the Boleyn ground to Galliard
Homes will pay the £15m we owe to the LLDC towards Olympic Stadium
transformation costs and the surplus of the sale will be used to pay off the
remaining bank debt.
I understand Galliard homes were not the highest bidder in the tender
process by some distance but considered by the directors as the best fit to
preserve the history of the area. Hopes that there would be a surplus from
the sale to invest in redeveloping Rush Green or investing in new players
now appear to be unfounded. This debt reduction plan relies on West Ham
remaining in Premier League until 2016. If we get relegated in the next 3
years all bets and plans to be debt free are off!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is Ravel Morrison really the problem?
James Jones
February 17, 2014
WestHamWorld.co.uk
Ravel Morrison's high profile loan switch to QPR has uncovered a number of
'conspiracies' behind his rise and fall at West Ham this season.
When things started going pear shaped and we began seeing less and less of
Morrison in the starting line-up, and then the match day squad, the
automatic feeling was that the player himself had been causing trouble
behind the scenes.
His reputation of being a bad boy automatically meant that he was the one
orchestrating the trouble in the dressing room, apparently pushing for a
move to Fulham and frequently missing training.
Such accusations, along with the Fulham debacle, sparked fans giving
Morrison abuse on Twitter and Instagram, some of which was quite disgusting
and uncalled for.
Of course, a lot of the bad comments people made towards him were out of
frustration more than anything. Hearing that your club's most promising
youngster has been pushing for a move and causing trouble in the dressing
room is obviously going to frustrate and upset the fans who had enjoyed
watching him play earlier in the season, and had also given him hero-like
status for his goal in the 3-0 win over Spurs at White Hart Lane.
But after all of that and all of the accusations towards Ravel, stories have
emerged this week that suggest it's actually Sam Allardyce who has played a
big part in Ravel being sent out on loan and potentially going AWOL.
On the back of Allardyce's claims that Morrison is refusing to play with a
groin injury that he has 100% recovered from, Morrison's agent Nick Rubery
went public to claim Morrison had fallen out with the manager due to
attempts to get him to switch agents.
According to Rubery, Allardyce asked Morrison to ditch him for his own agent
Mark Curtis. The trouble is, Morrison sees Rubery as a very close friend and
is unwilling to ditch him under the orders of Allardyce. And why should he?
To help line the pockets of Allardyce? Perhaps Big Sam is looking for one
last pay day before the owners tell him to pack his bags in the summer?
Maybe we'll never know.
But this is, in a nutshell, the reason behind the fall-out. We may never
find out the truth behind what has happened over the last couple of months,
but what I think is vital to all of this is that we shouldn't be publicly
attacking Morrison for his apparent trouble making when, in fact, he may not
have actually done anything wrong at all.
Yes, he has a history and a reputation but, given how successful and grown
up he had become early on this season, it does seem a bit strange that
suddenly it's all been ruined and he's off to QPR. Surely something must
have sparked the current situation? Why would he have thrown away what was
promising to be a successful and popular West Ham career for a loan move to
a Championship side?
Underneath one of Morrison's recent Instagram posts he reacted to an angry
comment towards by saying something like 'You wait until the truth comes
out.' To me, that suggests there was behind this than just him being the bad
boy he is always being made out to be.
So with all of that in mind, perhaps it's time to stop hounding the player
and wait to see if the actual truth does come out. Let Morrison go to QPR
and continue his development as a player – he'll certainly do that under
Harry Redknapp – and then assess the situation once he returns in the
summer.
If we are going to hold on to Ravel by offering him a new contract and him
agreeing to pen-to-paper, he is going to need to feel wanted not just by the
club, but by the fans.
So until we learn all the ins and outs about this, we should support
Morrison and wish him all the best at Loftus Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are calling on supporters to offer their views on a fitting
finale for the Boleyn Ground
17.02.2014
As West Ham United prepare for a future at the Olympic Stadium, the Club are
pressing on with plans to finalise a fitting farewell to the Club's home of
110 years. With two-and-a-half years to give the Boleyn Ground the perfect
send-off, the Hammers are calling on supporters to leave their mark on
proceedings.
The Hammers' Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) members have already got the
ball rolling and this is your chance to tell them how you envisage the
Club's final Upton Park season taking shape. So should you know an SAB
member and would like to share your ideas and memories, please get in touch
with them. During a recent meeting, the SAB discussed the prospect of themed
matches for each and every game of the final season and the celebrations
surrounding the very last game. The Club is also collating opinion on a
grand final-curtain event. Meanwhile, the SAB showed a great deal of
interest in the auction of Boleyn Ground memorabilia, as well as
commemorative tours in the final season. As it stands, the SAB has already
offered the following suggestions and the Club is keen to compile many more.
· A countdown clock in the Boleyn, ticking down to the first whistle of the
final game.
· Breaking the world record for the most people simultaneously blowing
bubbles on the last day at the Boleyn.
· A commemorative programme similar to the very first ever issued.
· Guard of honour of both former and current players as part of the last
moments at the Boleyn.
As expected, there were differing views on how exactly the final Boleyn
Ground game might shape up and similarly on the look of a commemorative home
shirt. With that in mind, the wider consultation of the fan base is even
more important, so make sure your voice is heard.
For the full report of the SAB's last meeting, click here, while the
Farewell to the Boleyn Ground focus group is set to reconvene on Tuesday 25
February. Future consultation topics will include:
· What would supporters like the commemorative kit to look like? Should it
be the traditional claret and blue or a limited edition kit?
· Suggestions on possible themed matches, allowing supporters to vote for
their favourites.
· Detailed list of what Boleyn Ground tours should include in the lead-up to
the move.
· Begin to outline and elaborate on plans for a closing ceremony at the
Boleyn Ground.
· Thoughts on how the Club can best collate fan stories and memories through
the years at the Boleyn.
· Conduct a detailed discussion of possible items to be included in the
auction.
The SAB is your platform and the Club looks forward to hearing from as many
supporters as possible in the coming weeks and months,not least with the
prospect of celebrating the Club's 120th anniversary next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Macca looking forward to Open Training
WHUFC.com
West Ham United assistant boss is looking forward to welcoming Season Ticket
Holders to training
17.02.2014
West Ham United will swap their warm-weather training camp for a setting
closer to home when they host an exclusive open training session for Season
Ticket Holders and Corporate Members at the Boleyn Ground on Tuesday. The
Hammers will train in front of the fans as the preparations for Saturday's
Barclays Premier League clash with Southampton continue. Gates open at 10am,
with training scheduled to begin at 10.30am, and assistant boss Neil
McDonald is looking forward to allowing the supporters a behind-the-scenes
look at how the first team squad prepares for a game. McDonald said: "The
fans have been fantastic, even when we haven't been performing to where we
thought we would. They stood by the team, so it's great that our form is
improving as it sends people home with smiles on their faces. "We'll try and
show them what we do, all the way from pre warm-up to warm-up, a little bit
of possession and finishing. It just gives them a little outline of how we
work."
McDonald believes the week of training in Dubai has set his team up for a
strong end to the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League campaign. The Hammers have
visited the Middle East for similar trips the last two years, with promotion
to the Premier League and a top-half finish last season being secured upon
their return to action. "I thought it was a great camp," he continued. "It
was perfect timing for us, as leading up to the last few weeks, we hadn't
been getting good results, so fixing the trip up in itself had a motivation
for the lads as they had something to look forward to. "We got some good
results, beating Norwich, Aston Villa and Swansea, and drawing with Chelsea.
The results have been fantastic over the last three or four weeks and that's
just cemented the good week we had in Dubai. Hopefully we can get the same
results when we come back. "We hope this trip has a positive impact on
results like it has done the previous two seasons. Everybody coming back
from injury has given everyone a boost. The signings that the manager has
made have done the same and there's lots of competition for places. "That's
certainly shown at the moment - we have Winston Reid who was at the heart of
the defence before who can't get in the team because we're keeping clean
sheets and playing well. "The bar has been set a little bit higher, which is
great, and everybody is full of confidence - that has shown on the field in
the last four games. When the confidence comes back everyone performs that
little bit better and everyone has a smile on their face.
"Certainly Dubai has made everyone happier too, because it was beautiful
weather, we were staying in a beautiful place and training was at a
fantastic facility, so hopefully that will kick us on for the rest of the
season."
The Hammers made the most of the conditions in Dubai to train with the sun
on their backs and McDonald says the benefits will be both physical and
mental in nature. He continued: "You can see from the photographs that we
were able to train in t-shirts and shorts. The weather, as everybody knows,
has been horrendous at home over the last few weeks, so it has been good for
them to get some vitamin D in their bodies. "We were still doing a little
bit of technical work and work in the gym. It was time for them to relax
their aching bodies, because the majority of them have played a lot of games
over the Christmas and January periods."
West Ham returned to London on Sunday, although Andy Carroll and Joey
O'Brien remained in Dubai for additional warm-weather work as they remain
unavailable for first team selection due to suspension and injury
respectively. McDonald explained: "With Joey's shoulder injury, it's good
for him to do some work in the sea. It's good for him to have the sun on his
back when he's working, so that will try to cheer him up because you know
what players are like when they're injured. He's been out with the rest of
the lads and that's fantastic for him. "For Andy it's just a continuation of
his rehabilitation, really. He's worked very, very hard to get himself fit
and he's made an impact since coming back. "Unfortunately he got sent-off
against Swansea, and we still can't believe that happened. He's still got
one more game of his suspension against Southampton, so we decided to leave
him out there with the rehab fitness coach Eduardo Garcia. He's there with
both of them to do some work in the sun, and Andy will come back ready and
raring to go for Everton."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The public gets what the public wants
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Referee Mark Clattenburg is to take charge of West Ham United's Premier
League clash with Southampton this weekend - his first Saints appointment
since they filed a complaint against him last year.
The south coast club reported Clattenburg to the Professional Game Match
Officials Board back in December when it was claimed he told Saints captain
Adam Lallana: "You are very different now, since you've played for England -
you never used to be like this". The complaint was later dismissed by the
FA.
It will also be the first time that Clattenberg - who West Ham supporters
ironically chanted for during the 3-1 victory against Chelsea in December
2012 - has officiated a United game since New Years' Day, when he dismissed
Kevin Nolan in the 2-1 defeat at Fulham. That was the most recent incident
in a long charge sheet for Clattenburg where the Hammers are concerned.
On New Years' Day 2013, the Durham official angered Norwich boss Chris
Hughton for refusing to either of two penalty appeals - correctly, so it was
later proved - in a 2-1 win for the Hammers at the Boleyn Ground. Earlier
that season he was criticised for being "card happy" when booking ten
players in a 2-1 win for West Ham at QPR.
In 2010 Clattenburg left fans questioning his parentage on no less than
three occasions. A 4-0 Carling Cup quarter final win against Manchester
United would have been even more emphatic had he spotted a clear foul on
substitute Zavon Hines in the game's closing stages, whilst his decision to
rule out Freddie Piquionne's perfectly legal injury time 'winner' at Wolves
baffled many.
The FA Cup 3rd round tie with Arsenal in January at that year also ended
controversially when Clattenburg ignored a clear infringement on Alessandro
Diamanti with the score at 0-0. West Ham went on to lose the game 2-1.
Clattenburg had previously left Gianfranco Zola fuming during a 3-3 draw at
Hull in November 2009 when awarding a soft penalty against Julien Faubert -
though Zola's mood improved somewhat when the 38-year-old failed to spot a
far worse offence by Matthew Upson later in the same game. Zola was less
forgiving three months previously when Clattenburg refused to award a
penalty when Luis Jimenez was tripped inside the box by Spurs' Essou-Ekotto.
Lee Bowyer was another victim of Clattenburg's back in 2008, when he was
dismissed for what appeared to be an innocuous challenge during a 1-1 draw
against Birmingham. The FA agreed and rescinded the card on appeal.
Then-manager Alan Curbishley had also criticised the referee in January of
that year for denying Bowyer (again) a clear penalty at Manchester City.
West Ham's biggest away win in recent years - a 5-0 thrashing of Derby
County at Pride Park back in 2007 - was also marred (very slightly,
admittedly) by Clattenburg's decision to award a free kick instead of a
penalty when Luis Boa Morte was felled inside the area during the first
half.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Getting mean
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham required 17 points from their remaining 12 Premier League fixtures
to match the mean number of points accrued by the Club in the Premier League
since the turn of the century.
The Hammers have spent ten seasons in the top flight since 2000, since when
the various teams - managed by Harry Redknapp, Glenn Roeder, Alan Pardew,
Alan Curbishley, Gianfranco Zola, Avram Grant and now Sam Allardyce - have
averaged 45 points over the course of the campaign with an average
13th-place finish.
Currently, West Ham have accrued 28 points from their first 26 games, just
slightly lower than the average tally of 30 points (with an average position
of 14th) for the same period at this stage.
However Sam Allardyce will be hoping his team can continue their excellent
recent form, which has earned West Ham ten vital points from their last four
outings - keeping clean sheets in all four - for the remainder of the
2013/14 season.
In order to achieve the average points tally of 45, West Ham need to take
1.4 points per game for the remainder of the season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Go on my sun!
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 17th February 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be hoping the mid-season trip to Dubai will have a
similar effect on his team's fortunes to that in the last two seasons. Since
first making the now-annual trip with his squad at the end of February 2012,
Allardyce's West Ham have posted generally favourable results immediately
after returning to the UK. Two years ago, when still a Championship side,
the Hammers returned from Dubai at the end of February before embarking on a
seven-match unbeaten run that finally ended with a 4-2 home defeat against
Reading on the final day of March - the only defeat they suffered prior to
the end of the campaign. And last year the Hammers guaranteed their Premier
League place thanks to another decent run of form that followed the trip.
Despite losing 3-2 at home to Spurs - thanks to a last-minute Gareth Bale
'worldy' - in their first game back on British soil, only one of the seven
subsequent fixtures was to end in defeat (a 2-0 reversal at Chelsea) as West
Ham went on the secure a top ten finish in their first season back in the
top flight. Speaking about the 2011/12 promotion push last year, Allardyce
recalled: "We had a fantastic finish to the season and I still think the
trip that we had at this time last year was a big benefit in the end for
getting us promoted into the Premier League. "Nearly everybody does it today
which obviously is a benefit to you and the team, and the results when you
come back."
Allardyce will be hoping his team can emulate that form in the next few
weeks, when Southampton (h), Everton (a), Hull City (h) and Stoke (a) await.
West Ham are currently 11th in the Premier League with 28 points from 26
games - just two points shy of last season's tally at the same stage.
First five back
How a rejuvenated West Ham performed after returning from Dubai
2011/12 (February 2012)
Spurs (h) 2-3
Stoke (a) 1-0
Chelsea (a) 0-2
West Brom (h) 3-1
Liverpool (a) 0-0
2012/13 (February 2013)
Cardiff (a) 2-0
Watford (h) 1-1
Doncaser (h) 1-1
Leeds Utd (a) 1-1
Middlesbrough (h) 1-1
2013/14 (February 2014)
Southampton (h)
Everton (a)
Hull City (h)
Stoke City (a)
Man Utd (h)
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Antonio Nocerino joined West Ham to aid World Cup push
Last Updated: 17/02/14 4:00pm
SSN
Antonio Nocerino is hoping to enjoy a productive loan spell at West Ham
United and force his way into Italy's World Cup squad. The combative
midfielder completed a move from AC Milan towards the end of the January
transfer window and will see out the season at Upton Park. He has been eased
into English football by Hammers boss Sam Allardyce, making four substitute
appearances so far. It is the 28-year-old's intention to soon step off the
bench and into the starting XI, with a desire to take in regular football
having driven his switch from Serie A. Nocerino believes that if he can
convince Allardyce that he is deserving of a prominent role in his Premier
League plans, than a seat on the plane to Brazil this summer could also be
within his reach. A man who has been capped on 15 occasions by his country
told Radio Deejay: "I hope this spell with help me get back into the Italian
squad. "One of the reasons I came to West Ham and to the Premier League is
to play on a regular basis. "My first objective is to play for West Ham and
help the club move up the table. "From that, if I am playing well and I get
picked to go to the World Cup in Brazil, that will be an added bonus."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
INTERVIEW: JONJO HEUERMAN - A TRUE INSPIRATION.
By ExWHUemployee 17 Feb 2014 at 22:05
West ham Till I Die
"Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes
life meaningful". –Joshua J. Marine.
I like to think I set myself challenges and that I have met the majority
that I have. However, I have never set challenges as great as Jonjo Heuerman
or achieved as much as he has and all by the age of 12. I have followed
Jonjo's work from the very start as he raises money for charities very close
to my own heart and of course is a fellow Hammer. As Jonjo is about to
embark on his next challenge on Tuesday 18th Feb, I thought it was the
perfect time to ask him some questions and find out more about his work.
I am sure most people who follow West Ham know of your work but could you
please tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am 12 years old and I was my Nanny's only grandson when she passed away
from bowel cancer. I started secondary school in September and I have only
just told my school that I fundraise. I like to keep my school life and my
friends separate from my fundraising. I really like meeting people and I
love football.
What else do you like to do when you are not raising money?
I love to be at West Ham United, I have been a season ticket holder since I
was 4 years old. I also collect 1966 World Cup and West Ham United football
memorabilia. I'm just a normal kid and I do normal things. I play on my Xbox
and I love to play football and see my friends. My favourite time is playing
football with my dog. She is a great goalkeeper. I am really interested in
cooking and I would like to be a chef when I am older.
Which charities do you raise money for?
I fund raise for The Bobby Moore Fund for Cancer Research UK. I chose this
charity because my Nanny and Bobby Moore both died from bowel cancer.
When and how did your charity work start?
When my Nanny died my sister did some fundraising. She raised £10,000 for
our local hospice. I watched what she did and I helped her. I wanted to do
something for my Nanny's memory too so I asked my Mum if I could walk from
Wembley to West Ham United. She is not very good at directions and she
thought because they were in London they were close. My first walk took me 3
days and was 27 miles and I way 9 years old. I started on my own with my
family and I was on TV a lot and when I finished lots of people came to walk
with me.
I do my walk every year in February half term because it's the same week as
my Nanny and Bobby's anniversary. People from around the world come to walk
with me and people send me angel names of people who they lost to cancer
too. I put all the names on my walk Tshirt and I read out the names on the
last day of my challenge at a special memorial ceremony. I have walked
almost 200 miles now for nearly 300 angels. I also help by organising events
all year too.
Can you tell me about some of your biggest fundraising events?
My biggest event was The Big Football Tag. I asked every one of the 92
English Football League club captains to give me a signed captains armband.
I then organised a tag event where fans from each club took their club
captain's armband to the next club in the tag. The armbands were attached to
sashes with GPS trackers attached. On the first day of my 2013 challenge I
waited at the gates of Upton Park to wait for the armbands to arrive on foot
and to tag me. It was amazing, from all around the country they came and
within half an hour I had every armband. I carried them to Wembley to get
the England captain's armband for Bobby and bring it back to Upton Park. My
walk took me 6 days and I walked 66 miles. All of the armbands are being
auctioned for the charity.
I have seen many West Ham greats and other famous people support your work,
have you any special memories from any dealings with them?
I was invited to meet David Cameron at Downing Street. That was pretty
special. He is an Aston Villa supporter and I told him he supported the
wrong claret and blue and he thought it was funny. Speaking at events at the
House of Lords was great too.
I have met Billy Bonds a lot and last time he was telling me off for not
eating properly. I am a really bad eater and he was trying to get me to eat
chicken with him. He made me promise and to train properly for my challenge.
All of The Boys of 86 are kind to me and is the first team squad, the owners
and staff at West Ham too. A lot of celebrity fans follow me on Twitter and
they are kind too and Stephanie Moore is very proud of me. I have had a
great time meeting people.
You are due to start another event this Tuesday, could you tell me more
about it?
I am starting a 50 mile 5 day football dribble from the centre circle of
Southend United to the centre circle of West Ham United before kick off
against Southampton. I start the day after my nanny's anniversary and I
finish the day before Bobby's anniversary. I have two footballs and I am
inviting people to come and dribble with me. Lots of people are joining in
and I am trying to raise £50,000 for The Bobby Moore Fund.
How can readers support you and contribute to the cause?
They can support me by visiting my Website and buying my charity badges and
wristbands or by donating on JustGiving or by coming and joining in. I am
trying to get fans to walk the last mile with me – One Moore Mile. They can
meet me at the junction of Romford Road and Green Street on 22nd February
2014 at 1:30pm. There is a lot of information about my challenge on my
website and I will be wearing a GPS tracker so people can watch my progress
or find me to join in. There are maps on my website too.
If fans cannot walk with me they can meet me at the Barking Road statue at
2pm on 22nd February for my memorial service. There is a lot of people
coming and it's going to be really special this year. They can also follow
me on Facebook and Twitter. I like reading the messages on there because it
encourages me.
What are your future ambitions?
I want to be a chef and I want to keep fundraising and help find a cure one
day. I am walking in Ireland in April and I have been asked to walk to The
Vatican, and to walk in New York but I don't know how or when because of my
school work.
Is there anything you would like to say to the readers out there?
I want to say a big thank you to West Ham fans and the club for helping me.
I have raised £150,000 so far and the charity estimates that I have
generated over £1m in awareness too and I couldn't do it without lots of
help. Thank you for helping me Make Bobby Proud
I would really like to thank Jonjo for taking the time to answer these
questions for me, the day before such a big event. I am sure, like me, you
find his work inspirational and would encourage you all to support Jonjo and
help him reach his fundraising targets. Good luck Jonjo from the West Ham
family!!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
EXCLUSIVE: THE PLAN TO BECOME DEBT FREE BEFORE WE MOVE
By Sean Whetstone 17 Feb 2014 at 08:46
West Ham Till I Die
When the recent West Ham company accounts were published it showed an
outstanding bank debt of £44m in 2013. The re-financing of that debt on 1st
July last year appears to have reduced the current bank debt from £44m to
£32m not including the £5m short term season pay day loan from Vibrac. The
new refinancing deal was secured as a mortgage against the Boleyn Ground and
the other freehold land held by the club. The terms of the new loans are the
bank debts need to be paid off or refinanced by the end of 2016.
Interestingly the new bankers are named as CB Holding ehf and David Sullivan
replacing the previous syndicate of five banks from the Icelandic days.
I can exclusive reveal the terms of the re-financing deal for the first
time.
In May/June 2013 David Sullivan bought a further 25% of the shares in the
club from CB holdings on condition they used the money David paid them to
loan back to the club to replace the main bank debt for 3 years by paying
off the existing bankers. David Sullivan paid £25.5m for these shares which
ultimately ended back in the club to refinance the bank debt. However, there
remained a 15% hole of £3.8m in cash needed to pay off the syndicate of five
banks, so David Sullivan personally took 15% of the main bank debt so that
it could be paid off. It was the only way it could be done as no other banks
were prepared to loan us the money. Effectively, David Sullivan become one
of our bankers and is named as such in the 2013 financial accounts. It means
he invested another £25.5m last year on top of the £10.5m Gold and himself
loaned the club last season as shareholder loans. CB Holdings have also
loaned West ham £6.7m to take the total bank debt to £32.2m.
With the sale of the Boleyn ground announced last week the chairmen have a
plan to be almost debt free by May 2016 when we move to the Olympic Stadium.
The current plan is to pay off £5m per year off the bank debt over the next
two remaining years at the Boleyn. This reduces the bank debt to £22m by
which time we will need to move out and pay off the loans secured against
the Boleyn ground. The proceeds of the sale of the Boleyn ground to Galliard
Homes will pay the £15m we owe to the LLDC towards Olympic Stadium
transformation costs and the surplus of the sale will be used to pay off the
remaining bank debt.
I understand Galliard homes were not the highest bidder in the tender
process by some distance but considered by the directors as the best fit to
preserve the history of the area. Hopes that there would be a surplus from
the sale to invest in redeveloping Rush Green or investing in new players
now appear to be unfounded. This debt reduction plan relies on West Ham
remaining in Premier League until 2016. If we get relegated in the next 3
years all bets and plans to be debt free are off!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Is Ravel Morrison really the problem?
James Jones
February 17, 2014
WestHamWorld.co.uk
Ravel Morrison's high profile loan switch to QPR has uncovered a number of
'conspiracies' behind his rise and fall at West Ham this season.
When things started going pear shaped and we began seeing less and less of
Morrison in the starting line-up, and then the match day squad, the
automatic feeling was that the player himself had been causing trouble
behind the scenes.
His reputation of being a bad boy automatically meant that he was the one
orchestrating the trouble in the dressing room, apparently pushing for a
move to Fulham and frequently missing training.
Such accusations, along with the Fulham debacle, sparked fans giving
Morrison abuse on Twitter and Instagram, some of which was quite disgusting
and uncalled for.
Of course, a lot of the bad comments people made towards him were out of
frustration more than anything. Hearing that your club's most promising
youngster has been pushing for a move and causing trouble in the dressing
room is obviously going to frustrate and upset the fans who had enjoyed
watching him play earlier in the season, and had also given him hero-like
status for his goal in the 3-0 win over Spurs at White Hart Lane.
But after all of that and all of the accusations towards Ravel, stories have
emerged this week that suggest it's actually Sam Allardyce who has played a
big part in Ravel being sent out on loan and potentially going AWOL.
On the back of Allardyce's claims that Morrison is refusing to play with a
groin injury that he has 100% recovered from, Morrison's agent Nick Rubery
went public to claim Morrison had fallen out with the manager due to
attempts to get him to switch agents.
According to Rubery, Allardyce asked Morrison to ditch him for his own agent
Mark Curtis. The trouble is, Morrison sees Rubery as a very close friend and
is unwilling to ditch him under the orders of Allardyce. And why should he?
To help line the pockets of Allardyce? Perhaps Big Sam is looking for one
last pay day before the owners tell him to pack his bags in the summer?
Maybe we'll never know.
But this is, in a nutshell, the reason behind the fall-out. We may never
find out the truth behind what has happened over the last couple of months,
but what I think is vital to all of this is that we shouldn't be publicly
attacking Morrison for his apparent trouble making when, in fact, he may not
have actually done anything wrong at all.
Yes, he has a history and a reputation but, given how successful and grown
up he had become early on this season, it does seem a bit strange that
suddenly it's all been ruined and he's off to QPR. Surely something must
have sparked the current situation? Why would he have thrown away what was
promising to be a successful and popular West Ham career for a loan move to
a Championship side?
Underneath one of Morrison's recent Instagram posts he reacted to an angry
comment towards by saying something like 'You wait until the truth comes
out.' To me, that suggests there was behind this than just him being the bad
boy he is always being made out to be.
So with all of that in mind, perhaps it's time to stop hounding the player
and wait to see if the actual truth does come out. Let Morrison go to QPR
and continue his development as a player – he'll certainly do that under
Harry Redknapp – and then assess the situation once he returns in the
summer.
If we are going to hold on to Ravel by offering him a new contract and him
agreeing to pen-to-paper, he is going to need to feel wanted not just by the
club, but by the fans.
So until we learn all the ins and outs about this, we should support
Morrison and wish him all the best at Loftus Road.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
---
This email is free from viruses and malware because avast! Antivirus protection is active.
http://www.avast.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
