Potts pens new deal
WHUFC.com
Hammers youngster Dan Potts has put pen to paper on a new contract with the
Club
11.06.2014
West Ham United youngster Dan Potts has extended his contract with the Club
until June 2015 with an option for a further year. The 20-year-old defender,
who made two first team appearances last term, is delighted to have put pen
to paper on his new deal with a sustained first team breakthrough his aim
for the season ahead. Potts has come through the ranks at the Boleyn Ground,
emulating his father Steve, who is now the Academy's Under-18s coach.
The left-back expects 2014/15 to prove pivotal in his development in east
London and is keen to hit the ground running when pre-season gets underway
on 3 July. He told West Ham TV: "I'm very excited to have signed the new
contract. We're into the summer break now and it's good to put pen to paper.
"I'm looking forward to pre-season already and can't wait to get back going.
Hopefully I can get a good pre-season under my belt and push into the season
itself.
"It's going to be a massive year for me personally. Not only for the Club,
but also from my point of view it's a big year and I'm hoping to push on
this pre-season and force my way into the team. "If I can get into the
manager's eyes, hopefully I can be in with a shout going into the first game
of the season."
Potts made his first team debut in the 2011/12 Championship Play-Off winning
campaign and after fleeting moments of action to total 12 appearances, he
sees this as the time to grasp his opportunity. He added: "The last few
years I've had a couple of games here and there, but from my point of view I
want to be playing week in, week out. There's no better league to do that
than the league we're in and growing up around West Ham, around the Club and
as a fan myself, it would be a dream come true to be playing week in week
out for this Club in the Premier League. "I think pre-season says it all,
especially as a younger player. It's a great opportunity if you manage to
play a couple of games, to get in the manager's eyes. That's where it will
all start."
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World Cup Countdown - Mark Noble
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble says the hot and humid conditions in Brazil are going to prove
tricky for England
10.06.2014
Hammer of the Year Mark Noble believes how well England adapt to the
conditions will prove key to the Three Lions' chances at this summer's FIFA
World Cup. Roy Hodgson's men kick-off their campaign on Saturday in the
tropical city of Manaus, having attempted to acclimatise with two warm-up
games in Miami. Noble says the humidity could prove decisive, and England
need to stand up to the test. He said: "I'll be on holiday, but if I get to
watch it I will, and it's always exciting when you see everyone get geared
up for it. "It'll be tough for England, because it's in Brazil and it's a
different climate but I'm hoping they go there and give the country a good
showing. "They've got good players, you need some luck along the way and
hopefully they'll get that. "The heat will play a massive part. I've played
in climates like that before and it does drain you. "It will be a tough
tournament but hopefully we can come out of it well."
As for the overall winners, Noble believes there won't be too many
surprises, and he is looking forward to seeing how England's youngsters get
on.
He added: "I think you have to fancy the usual countries - Germany, Spain,
Brazil the hosts, and Argentina. "I hope Adam Lallana gets a chance. He's
played well this year, and then there's the players like Rooney, Sturridge,
Gerrard - they're the English ones, and you also hope that Neymar and Messi
light up the tournament too."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Potts signs new one-year deal
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 11th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Dan Potts has signed a a one-year contract extension, tying him to West Ham
until the summer of 2015. 20-year-old Potts, the son of former centre half
Steve Potts was out of contract with the club this summer having been at
West Ham since he was a youth. However it was confirmed this afternoon that
the young full back had won a one-year extension. "I'm very excited to have
signed the new contract," he told whufc.com. "We're into the summer break
now and it's good to put pen to paper. "I'm looking forward to pre-season
and can't wait to get back going. It's going to be a massive year for me
personally. I'm hoping to push on this pre-season and force my way into the
team."
And with view to his long-term future, Potts - who has made just 12 first
team appearances so far - declared that should he not realise his ambitions
this coming season, he may be forced to look to pastures new. "The last few
years I've had a couple of games here and there, but from my point of view I
want to be playing week in, week out," he stated. "Growing up around West
Ham and as a fan myself, it would be a dream come true to be playing week in
week out for this Club in the Premier League. "I think pre-season says it
all, especially as a younger player. It's a great opportunity to get in the
manager's eyes."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye Fiorentina star
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 11th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to have approached Fiorentina with view to taking full
back Marcos Alonso Mendoza on loan.
The 23-year-old Spaniard spent the latter half of last season on loan with
Sunderland but today's Corriere Fiorentino says that the Hammers have
approached la Viola with view to a season-long loan. Alonso, who made one
appearance for Real Madrid with whom he began his professional career
previously spent three years at Bolton before moving to Italy.
* French media claim today that Congolese midfielder Prince Oniangue is a
target of West Ham's. The 6'2" Paris-born midfielder, currently with Ligue 1
club Stade de Reims enjoyed a fruitful 2013/14 campaign scoring ten goals in
35 appearances from midfield and is said to have been the subject of an
enquiry from the Hammers.
* There's an interesting story developing regarding the deal that saw Jack
Colback join Newcastle last week. According to Darren Lewis, Colback - who
had already agreed to join the Magpies - had a change of heart and wanted to
go to West Ham instead, but was overruled as a contract had already been
signed. Lewis, writing in the M***** also claims that Newcastle subsequently
tried to sell Colback to West Ham for £5million.
* Manchester City's Micah Richards is once again being linked with a move to
the Boleyn Ground. Still only 25 (despite having been linked with West Ham
since what seems like forever) the former England international is only a
back-up at the Etihad but City are keen to retain his services in order to
fulfil their home-grown player quota.
* Joleon Lescott, another City player who has long been linked with the
Hammers is reported to be in negotiations with Hull CIty over a two-year
deal. Lescott is available on a free transfer this summer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham left-back Dan Potts signs one-year extension to contract
Last Updated: 11/06/14 7:22pm
SSN
West Ham left-back Dan Potts has signed a one-year extension to his contract
which keeps him at the club until next summer. The 20-year-old, whose deal
also has the option of a further year, made two first-team appearances for
the Hammers last season although they were both in cup matches. Potts has
made five league appearances for West Ham so far and he is now hoping to add
to that tally next term. He told his club's official website: "I'm very
excited to have signed the new contract. We're into the summer break now and
it's good to put pen to paper. "I'm looking forward to pre-season already
and can't wait to get back going. Hopefully I can get a good pre-season
under my belt and push into the season itself. "It's going to be a massive
year for me personally. Not only for the club, but also from my point of
view it's a big year and I'm hoping to push on this pre-season and force my
way into the team. "If I can get into the manager's eyes, hopefully I can be
in with a shout going into the first game of the season."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
THE PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSFER WINDOW
By Sean Whetstone 11 Jun 2014 at 08:31
West Ham Till I Die
Many West Ham supporters appear to be disappointed with the progress made so
far in the transfer window. Eight players have left outbound and yet only
one has joined inbound so far.
Joe Cole, George McCartney, Jack Collison and Matty Taylor have been
released while loan signings Pablo Amero, Roger Johnson, Antonio Nocerino
and Marco Borriello have also returned to their parent clubs. The eight
players are believed to have released approximately £9m from the annual wage
bill while Mauro Zarate has added just under £2m per year.
Many agents, players and chairman are away on holiday for the first few
weeks of the transfer window with the added complication this year of the
World Cup which many players and agents will attend too whether they are
playing or not. I am being told that many clubs will do the bulk of their
transfer business after the World Cup rather then before it. I understand
the club is also keen not to do all their business too early in case a late
opportunity presents itself in the transfer window. It is claimed this
happened last transfer window after they had blown their budget and wages
which caused us to miss a significant high profile target .
Next is the tricky conversation on transfer budget, which is widely reported
to be £20m in the media, the actual budget remains confidential but I am
hearing whispers it is considerably less than amount quoted in the media as
the club attempts to be self financing by living within it's means. I am not
saying the chairman won't put their hands in their pocket like they are done
many times beyond but I understand they would like to budget without another
cash injection. Over the past 4 years the joint chairman have injected
£40.7m in share holders which they are not collecting interest on as yet.
The chairman has a reputation for a bargain so expect a few more free
transfers or loan deals as part of out transfer window.
The next hurdle is wages, although our Financial Fair Play wage cap will be
£58m this year I understand the club will not necessarily go right up to it
unless they have to.
The players annual wage bill was thought to have been around £55m last year.
I understand the club are aiming to be financially sustainable and keep the
wage structure for individual players at £50k per week. They want sensible
spending after the lack of return they got back in breaking the wage
structure for Andy Carroll and matched the maximum wage for Stewart Downing.
I expect the club to have its own annual wage budget which will be below the
FFP limit of £58m.
Some supporters may be disappointed with what I have said above but in my
view the club is far better shape than four years when we had debts of
£110m. We are almost bank debt free as the remaining bank debts are now
funded by shareholders CB Holdings and David Sullivan who refinanced the
bank debt last year to the tune of £40m on top of the £45.7m lent to the
club by Gold and Sullivan as shareholder loans. Their plan is to be
completely debt free by 2017 when we move to the Olympic Stadium.
Yes we need to bring another six or seven players in but we need to do it on
a budget and live within our means.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Newcastle and West Ham's bizarre transfer tangle over Jack Colback move from
Sunderland
Jun 10, 2014 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Midfielder's free-agent switch from Magpies' arch-rivals understood to have
been delayed by weeks as he attempted U-turn to join Hammers
The Mirror
Newcastle were locked in an extraordinary row with Jack Colback's
representatives before his £50,000-a-week move to St James' Park. Mirror
Sport understands confirmation of the 24-year-old's free-agent defection
from arch-rivals Sunderland was held up for over two weeks - because he
staged a u-turn and asked to be allowed to go to West Ham instead. The
Magpies and Hammers had been in a straight fight for Colback's services when
it became clear that he was ready to quit the Stadium of Light. It appeared
the battle had been won when Colback initially chose a move to his native
Tyneside. It is understood, however, that the Toon were left stunned after
being told the player had had an overnight change of heart - possibly
sparked by concerns over the reaction on Wearside - and now wanted to move
to the Upton Park club. A remarkable week of wrangling then ensued in which
Colback's representatives allegedly tried to backtrack - only to be told by
Newcastle that they had already reached agreement and the club were not
willing to go back on it. At one stage, they did offer to actually SELL
Colback to West Ham for £5million. It was when the Hammers declined the
audacious move that the player's move to Newcastle was confirmed.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Marcos Alonso eyed by West Ham if move for Timothee Kolodziejczak falls
through
Fiorentina defender Marcos Alonso impressed in loan spell at Sunderland
West Ham's primary target is Nice defender Timothee Kolodziejczak
Hammers have already tabled a £3m bid for Kolodziejczak
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 11 June 2014 | UPDATED: 23:12, 11 June 2014
Daily Mail
Fiorentina defender Marcos Alonso is a back-up target for West Ham if they
fail to sign Timothee Kolodziejczak from Nice. Alonso impressed on loan at
Sunderland last season but Gus Poyet has yet to follow up on an option to
make the deal permanent. West Ham have offered £3million for Kolodziejczak.
Alonso, the brother of Real Madrid and Spain midfielder Xabi, impressed with
his energetic performances for Sunderland as they reached the Capital One
Cup final and escaped relegation from the Premier League. Hammers boss Sam
Allardyce is also keen on Anderlecht defender Cheikhou Kouyate but will face
competition from Valencia.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cheikhou Kouyate set for West Ham move as Hammers move ahead of Valencia in
race for Senegalese defender
West Ham and Valencia battling it out for signature of Cheikhou Kouyate
Anderlecht and Senegal player can slot into defence or midfield
Hammers boss Sam Allardyce keen to strengthen his squad this summer
By SIMON JONES
PUBLISHED: 22:30, 11 June 2014 | UPDATED: 23:15, 11 June 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham have stepped ahead of Valencia in their efforts to sign
Anderlecht's Cheikhou Kouyate. The 24-year-old can play in defence or
midfield and has been pondering offers from both clubs after bids of
£7million were accepted. Manager Sam Allardyce was instructed by Hammers
co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan to provide more entertainment next
season. As a consequence Teddy Sheringham has returned to Upton Park as an
attacking coach, while Argentinian striker Mauro Zarate has arrived on a
three-year contract from Velez Sarsfield. But Allardyce is also keen to
shore up his defence in order to push up the Premier League next season.
Manchester City defenders Joleon Lescott and Micah Richards and goalkeeper
Costel Pantilimon have also been linked.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ex-West Ham & QPR defender Anton Ferdinand joins Police United FC in
Thailand on 2-year deal
Wednesday, June 11th, 2014
Rio Ferdinand's younger brother Anton was marked out as a star of the future
in his youth football days. Winning 17 England U21 caps, the world seemed to
be at Anton's feet, but his career has been on a downward spiral ever since
leaving West Ham in 2008. After making just 3 league appearances for Turkish
side Antalyaspor last season, Anton Ferdinand is now headed to the Land of
Smiles, to play for Police United in the Thai Premier League, based in
central province Pathum Thani.
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Thursday, June 12
Wednesday, June 11
Daily WHUFC News - 11th June 2014
On this day - 11 June
WHUFc.com
Guillermo Franco and David James were both in international action on this
date in history
11.06.2014
Anniversary (1)
South Africa 1-1 Mexico
FIFA World Cup finals Group A
11 June 2010, Soccer City, Johannesburg, South Africa
Five West Ham United players went to the FIFA World Cup finals in South
Africa in 2010 - Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Valon Behrami, Jonathan
Spector and Guillermo Franco. South Africa opened the eagerly-anticipated
tournament by hosting Franco's Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg on
Friday 11 June 2010, with the Hammers No10 wearing the No9 for the Central
Americans. Siphiwe Tshabalala belted the host nation into the lead ten
minutes after half-time before Franco was withdrawn with 17 minutes
remaining. Six minutes later, Rafael Marquez equalised for Mexico and the
game ended in a 1-1 draw. Mexico were eliminated in the Round of 16 by
Argentina - the country of Franco's birth. The striker made 23 appearances
for West Ham during the 2009/10 season, scoring five goals.
Anniversary (2)
England 2-1 Slovakia
2004 UEFA European Championship Group 7 qualifier
11 June 2003, Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough
West Ham United had links to both sides when England hosted Slovakia at
Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium in a 2004 UEFA European Championship
qualifier on this day in 2003. Hammers goalkeeper David James lined-up
between the sticks for the home side, while Academy graduate Frank Lampard
and future West Ham defender Matthew Upson were also in the England starting
XI. Vladimir Labant, the left-back who had recently departed the Boleyn
Ground to return to former club Sparta Prague, started for the Slovaks but
lasted only 39 minutes before being replaced. Before Labant's departure,
Vladimir Janocko fired Slovakia into a shock lead against Sven-Goran
Eriksson's side. After half-time, however, it was a different story as
Michael Owen converted a penalty before heading the winner for England with
17 minutes remaining on his 50th appearance for his country. England would
go on to qualify for EURO 2004 by finishing unbeaten and top of Group 7
ahead of runners-up Turkey.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Martin Allen
WHUFC.com
Martin Allen recollects his special moments in the claret and blue of West
Ham United
10.06.2014
West Ham United will always feel like home for Martin Allen. 'Mad Dog'
played 190 league games for the Hammers in a six-year spell between
1989-1995, becoming a popular figure at the Boleyn Ground with his
whole-hearted displays. He was back in E13 recently to play in a charity
match for Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital and we took the
opportunity to catch up. Martin Allen, a familiar and welcome face at the
Boleyn Ground, it's always nice to see you back - and you were back for a
great cause with the game for Great Ormond Street recently...
MA: "It's a charity which everyone supports and I was lucky to be invited
when you see some of the names in the dressing room!"
The fans look forward to seeing you - they hold you in high esteem and you
had a special relationship with them, didn't you?
MA: "I think so. It is always nice to come back. [They remember me for}
Messing about a little on the pitch, probably being naughty most of the
time. I was the quickest player to 51 [disciplinary] points, which is my
claim to fame - my cousin Clive got 51 goals and I got 51 points! The
supporters have a good sense of humour I think.
Your family's from this neck of the woods. There's something particular
about east London isn't there? When you go around the world, if you ask
someone who the archetypal Londoner is, it would be someone from this
part...
MA: "Yes, without a shadow of doubt. Like my family, a lot have moved out to
Dagenham, Romford, Basildon and the likes. I was the throwback because we
moved to Reading when my dad signed for them when he was young. Even though
I was brought up in Reading, there's always been this special part of
travelling back around here, as has been well documented. When I got that
phone call from Lou Macari to come and sign, it was magical.
When you think back to your time here, you mention the cards and the
disciplinary points, but there were some other fond memories as well. What
sticks out as your favourite time?
MA: "You don't forget the goals, that long shot at Highbury in front of all
the West Ham supporters in the Clock End was special. Some of the goals
here, the cup nights, the volley against Wimbledon. The whole experience
really, I was lucky in my life to have the ability to play here. I had to
work hard as I wasn't the most natural of gifted footballers, but to make
the most of my ability to play for West Ham was really very special.
"I'll never forget my first game against Plymouth, driving along the road
from East Ham and thinking this is so much bigger than what I'd been used to
at QPR. It was a completely different atmosphere. The characters in the
Chicken Run - the howling from the terraces. Even now I can be anywhere and
someone would literally start howling. Not many people have got that in
their life! That's all come from here, I get called Mad Dog wherever I go
and that's come from the Chicken Run."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM CHASE PORTUGUESE U21 LEFT BACK
By Sean Whetstone 10 Jun 2014 at 17:55
West Ham Till I Die
The fourth transfer target for the Left back position has emerged as 20 year
old Raphaël Guerreiro. He joins a list of four Left backs which include Urby
Emanuelson Martin Olssen and Timothee Kolodziejczak as potential transfers.
He made his first-team debut for the Ligue 2 club Caen in the 2012–13 season
for whom he made 38 appearances scoring one goal before joining Ligue 1
Lorient on a four-year deal for whom he has made 21 appearances. Although
born in France, Guerreiro accepted the call to represent the Portugal
National Under-21 Team earning 2 caps, He made his debut against Sweden on
21 March 2013. He is thought to be valued around 3.5 million euros.
Earlier this year Guerreiro emerged as a possible target for Liverpool with
some inside the game claiming he has the potential to be one of the best
left backs in the world.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SHOULD WE BE GLAD WE HAVE NO PLAYERS AT THE WORLD CUP?
By Tony Hanna 10 Jun 2014 at 13:06
West Ham Till I Die
I have seen some comments and also read an article recently where some are
condemning West Ham for not having any players at this years World Cup. So,
I thought it best to have a look back at previous tournaments and see what
has transpired since the halcyon days of Moore, Hurst and Peters.
Since we won the World Cup in 1966, England have failed to qualify three
times. Those years were 1974, 1978 and 1994 and West Ham did not have any
players representing any other countries playing in those tournaments.
Trevor Brooking (England) and Van Der Elst (Belgium) played in the 1982
World Cup finals and Alvin Martin (England) and Frank McAvennie (Scotland)
both played in the 1986 tournament in Mexico. It is a real shame that
Brooking was past his prime, aged 33 when he got his one and only game in a
World Cup finals match. He came on as second half substitute for just 26
minutes against the hosts Spain in Madrid. In 1990, 1998 and 2006 we only
had four representatives in total. Ludek Miklosko for the Czech's in 1990,
Rio Ferdinand for England and Bernard Lama for France in 1998 followed by
Shaka Hislop for Trinidad and Tobago in 2006. In fact we have only had 15
players from West Ham play in the World Cup finals since 1974 – that is
fifteen players in the eleven times the event has been held over the past
forty years. So, the fact that we have no players from West Ham at this
years Finals is not exactly earth shattering stuff.
OK, so let's have a look at the two times we have sent a large contingent.
Those years were 2002 and 2010. In 2002 we sent the largest contingent of
English West Ham players since 1966. David James, Trevor Sinclair and Joe
Cole all went to South Korea and England were beaten in the quarter finals
by the eventual winners Brazil. In 2010 we had four players leave from the
Boleyn to go and play in South Africa. Robert Green and Matthew Upson of
England were joined by Jonathan Spector (USA) and Behrami (Switzerland).
Make of it what you will, but those last two aforementioned World Cup years
where we had a total of seven representatives, what happened to West Ham the
following season? Yep, that's right, we were relegated both times! The three
previous times we have sent no one we had respectable seasons including
winning the FA Cup in 1975. Now I am not saying that sending players to a
World Cup is detrimental to the club's following season, but it will mean we
should have a completely fresh squad when it comes to the start of
pre-season training later this year.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
REID HOLDS OUT FOR MEGA PAY RISE
By Sean Whetstone 10 Jun 2014 at 08:27
West Ham Till I Die
Winston Reid's representatives are said to be holding out for a 5 year £75k
per week deal for their client.
The centre back joined West Ham in August 2010 on a three year contract for
a fee believed to be around £3m. This deal was later extended by two years
which will take him up to August 2015.His transfer fee was the subject of a
dispute between West Ham United and his former club FC Midtjylland as West
Ham withheld the fee to bring to UEFA's attention fees owing to them from
the sale of Alessandro Diamanti to Brescia.
He has made 93 appearances for West Ham scoring five goals against
opposition including against Milwall and Spurs. If the deal is agreed it
would make Reid the second highest earner in the club after Andy Carroll who
is though to earn £80k per week.
A 5 year deal would cost almost £20m in wages including agent fees, If he
was sold this summer he could raise around £6m
According to a club source the negotiations are 'complicated with many
variables' but if a top six club come in for him I am doubtful we can hold
on to him. To date no official enquiries or bids have been received for the
centre back although both Liverpool and Arsenal are claimed to be
interested.
In other news it appears West Ham are moving closer to signing another
centre back as a possible ready made replacement. The Hammers are said to be
a lot closer to making Cheikhou Kouyate their second signing of the transfer
window. Anderlecht and West Ham can not agree a price on an outright
purchase so the deal could take the form of a loan deal with first option to
buy at the end of the season. Although Valencia made a bid for the defender
he is understood to have his heart set on the Premier League. Arsenal
scouted him and were though to be interested but that has not materialised.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham target Manchester City defender Micah Richards
Jun 11, 2014 03:28 By Chris Richards
The 25-year-old right back has been offered a new deal at City but he has
not yet signed on the dotted line
The Mirror
West Ham are reportedly chasing Manchester City defender Micah Richards. The
Hammers are eyeing the England international, 25, as they look to strengthen
their squad over the summer. Richards has been offered a contract extension
at City. However, according to the Daily Mail, the Birmingham-born right
back has shown a reluctance to sign on the dotted line given his lack of
playing time this season. Richards is also an £8million summer target for
ambitious Hull.
Last month, he hinted he could quit the Etihad after 11 years. After City
won the Premier League title, Richards wrote on Twitter: "I'm proud for the
boys, gutted I didn't qualify for an actual medal but it's a great day for
the club. "We'll see what happens now. "I'll take the summer to think over
things. "I've been here 11 years, I've enjoyed every minute. "I don't know
what the future holds. "I just want to thank everyone here for what they've
done for me so far.
"I'm sure a lot of people hope I stay – but when games are limited sometimes
you have to do what's best for your career."
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WHUFc.com
Guillermo Franco and David James were both in international action on this
date in history
11.06.2014
Anniversary (1)
South Africa 1-1 Mexico
FIFA World Cup finals Group A
11 June 2010, Soccer City, Johannesburg, South Africa
Five West Ham United players went to the FIFA World Cup finals in South
Africa in 2010 - Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Valon Behrami, Jonathan
Spector and Guillermo Franco. South Africa opened the eagerly-anticipated
tournament by hosting Franco's Mexico at Soccer City in Johannesburg on
Friday 11 June 2010, with the Hammers No10 wearing the No9 for the Central
Americans. Siphiwe Tshabalala belted the host nation into the lead ten
minutes after half-time before Franco was withdrawn with 17 minutes
remaining. Six minutes later, Rafael Marquez equalised for Mexico and the
game ended in a 1-1 draw. Mexico were eliminated in the Round of 16 by
Argentina - the country of Franco's birth. The striker made 23 appearances
for West Ham during the 2009/10 season, scoring five goals.
Anniversary (2)
England 2-1 Slovakia
2004 UEFA European Championship Group 7 qualifier
11 June 2003, Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough
West Ham United had links to both sides when England hosted Slovakia at
Middlesbrough's Riverside Stadium in a 2004 UEFA European Championship
qualifier on this day in 2003. Hammers goalkeeper David James lined-up
between the sticks for the home side, while Academy graduate Frank Lampard
and future West Ham defender Matthew Upson were also in the England starting
XI. Vladimir Labant, the left-back who had recently departed the Boleyn
Ground to return to former club Sparta Prague, started for the Slovaks but
lasted only 39 minutes before being replaced. Before Labant's departure,
Vladimir Janocko fired Slovakia into a shock lead against Sven-Goran
Eriksson's side. After half-time, however, it was a different story as
Michael Owen converted a penalty before heading the winner for England with
17 minutes remaining on his 50th appearance for his country. England would
go on to qualify for EURO 2004 by finishing unbeaten and top of Group 7
ahead of runners-up Turkey.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Big Interview - Martin Allen
WHUFC.com
Martin Allen recollects his special moments in the claret and blue of West
Ham United
10.06.2014
West Ham United will always feel like home for Martin Allen. 'Mad Dog'
played 190 league games for the Hammers in a six-year spell between
1989-1995, becoming a popular figure at the Boleyn Ground with his
whole-hearted displays. He was back in E13 recently to play in a charity
match for Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital and we took the
opportunity to catch up. Martin Allen, a familiar and welcome face at the
Boleyn Ground, it's always nice to see you back - and you were back for a
great cause with the game for Great Ormond Street recently...
MA: "It's a charity which everyone supports and I was lucky to be invited
when you see some of the names in the dressing room!"
The fans look forward to seeing you - they hold you in high esteem and you
had a special relationship with them, didn't you?
MA: "I think so. It is always nice to come back. [They remember me for}
Messing about a little on the pitch, probably being naughty most of the
time. I was the quickest player to 51 [disciplinary] points, which is my
claim to fame - my cousin Clive got 51 goals and I got 51 points! The
supporters have a good sense of humour I think.
Your family's from this neck of the woods. There's something particular
about east London isn't there? When you go around the world, if you ask
someone who the archetypal Londoner is, it would be someone from this
part...
MA: "Yes, without a shadow of doubt. Like my family, a lot have moved out to
Dagenham, Romford, Basildon and the likes. I was the throwback because we
moved to Reading when my dad signed for them when he was young. Even though
I was brought up in Reading, there's always been this special part of
travelling back around here, as has been well documented. When I got that
phone call from Lou Macari to come and sign, it was magical.
When you think back to your time here, you mention the cards and the
disciplinary points, but there were some other fond memories as well. What
sticks out as your favourite time?
MA: "You don't forget the goals, that long shot at Highbury in front of all
the West Ham supporters in the Clock End was special. Some of the goals
here, the cup nights, the volley against Wimbledon. The whole experience
really, I was lucky in my life to have the ability to play here. I had to
work hard as I wasn't the most natural of gifted footballers, but to make
the most of my ability to play for West Ham was really very special.
"I'll never forget my first game against Plymouth, driving along the road
from East Ham and thinking this is so much bigger than what I'd been used to
at QPR. It was a completely different atmosphere. The characters in the
Chicken Run - the howling from the terraces. Even now I can be anywhere and
someone would literally start howling. Not many people have got that in
their life! That's all come from here, I get called Mad Dog wherever I go
and that's come from the Chicken Run."
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WEST HAM CHASE PORTUGUESE U21 LEFT BACK
By Sean Whetstone 10 Jun 2014 at 17:55
West Ham Till I Die
The fourth transfer target for the Left back position has emerged as 20 year
old Raphaël Guerreiro. He joins a list of four Left backs which include Urby
Emanuelson Martin Olssen and Timothee Kolodziejczak as potential transfers.
He made his first-team debut for the Ligue 2 club Caen in the 2012–13 season
for whom he made 38 appearances scoring one goal before joining Ligue 1
Lorient on a four-year deal for whom he has made 21 appearances. Although
born in France, Guerreiro accepted the call to represent the Portugal
National Under-21 Team earning 2 caps, He made his debut against Sweden on
21 March 2013. He is thought to be valued around 3.5 million euros.
Earlier this year Guerreiro emerged as a possible target for Liverpool with
some inside the game claiming he has the potential to be one of the best
left backs in the world.
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SHOULD WE BE GLAD WE HAVE NO PLAYERS AT THE WORLD CUP?
By Tony Hanna 10 Jun 2014 at 13:06
West Ham Till I Die
I have seen some comments and also read an article recently where some are
condemning West Ham for not having any players at this years World Cup. So,
I thought it best to have a look back at previous tournaments and see what
has transpired since the halcyon days of Moore, Hurst and Peters.
Since we won the World Cup in 1966, England have failed to qualify three
times. Those years were 1974, 1978 and 1994 and West Ham did not have any
players representing any other countries playing in those tournaments.
Trevor Brooking (England) and Van Der Elst (Belgium) played in the 1982
World Cup finals and Alvin Martin (England) and Frank McAvennie (Scotland)
both played in the 1986 tournament in Mexico. It is a real shame that
Brooking was past his prime, aged 33 when he got his one and only game in a
World Cup finals match. He came on as second half substitute for just 26
minutes against the hosts Spain in Madrid. In 1990, 1998 and 2006 we only
had four representatives in total. Ludek Miklosko for the Czech's in 1990,
Rio Ferdinand for England and Bernard Lama for France in 1998 followed by
Shaka Hislop for Trinidad and Tobago in 2006. In fact we have only had 15
players from West Ham play in the World Cup finals since 1974 – that is
fifteen players in the eleven times the event has been held over the past
forty years. So, the fact that we have no players from West Ham at this
years Finals is not exactly earth shattering stuff.
OK, so let's have a look at the two times we have sent a large contingent.
Those years were 2002 and 2010. In 2002 we sent the largest contingent of
English West Ham players since 1966. David James, Trevor Sinclair and Joe
Cole all went to South Korea and England were beaten in the quarter finals
by the eventual winners Brazil. In 2010 we had four players leave from the
Boleyn to go and play in South Africa. Robert Green and Matthew Upson of
England were joined by Jonathan Spector (USA) and Behrami (Switzerland).
Make of it what you will, but those last two aforementioned World Cup years
where we had a total of seven representatives, what happened to West Ham the
following season? Yep, that's right, we were relegated both times! The three
previous times we have sent no one we had respectable seasons including
winning the FA Cup in 1975. Now I am not saying that sending players to a
World Cup is detrimental to the club's following season, but it will mean we
should have a completely fresh squad when it comes to the start of
pre-season training later this year.
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REID HOLDS OUT FOR MEGA PAY RISE
By Sean Whetstone 10 Jun 2014 at 08:27
West Ham Till I Die
Winston Reid's representatives are said to be holding out for a 5 year £75k
per week deal for their client.
The centre back joined West Ham in August 2010 on a three year contract for
a fee believed to be around £3m. This deal was later extended by two years
which will take him up to August 2015.His transfer fee was the subject of a
dispute between West Ham United and his former club FC Midtjylland as West
Ham withheld the fee to bring to UEFA's attention fees owing to them from
the sale of Alessandro Diamanti to Brescia.
He has made 93 appearances for West Ham scoring five goals against
opposition including against Milwall and Spurs. If the deal is agreed it
would make Reid the second highest earner in the club after Andy Carroll who
is though to earn £80k per week.
A 5 year deal would cost almost £20m in wages including agent fees, If he
was sold this summer he could raise around £6m
According to a club source the negotiations are 'complicated with many
variables' but if a top six club come in for him I am doubtful we can hold
on to him. To date no official enquiries or bids have been received for the
centre back although both Liverpool and Arsenal are claimed to be
interested.
In other news it appears West Ham are moving closer to signing another
centre back as a possible ready made replacement. The Hammers are said to be
a lot closer to making Cheikhou Kouyate their second signing of the transfer
window. Anderlecht and West Ham can not agree a price on an outright
purchase so the deal could take the form of a loan deal with first option to
buy at the end of the season. Although Valencia made a bid for the defender
he is understood to have his heart set on the Premier League. Arsenal
scouted him and were though to be interested but that has not materialised.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham target Manchester City defender Micah Richards
Jun 11, 2014 03:28 By Chris Richards
The 25-year-old right back has been offered a new deal at City but he has
not yet signed on the dotted line
The Mirror
West Ham are reportedly chasing Manchester City defender Micah Richards. The
Hammers are eyeing the England international, 25, as they look to strengthen
their squad over the summer. Richards has been offered a contract extension
at City. However, according to the Daily Mail, the Birmingham-born right
back has shown a reluctance to sign on the dotted line given his lack of
playing time this season. Richards is also an £8million summer target for
ambitious Hull.
Last month, he hinted he could quit the Etihad after 11 years. After City
won the Premier League title, Richards wrote on Twitter: "I'm proud for the
boys, gutted I didn't qualify for an actual medal but it's a great day for
the club. "We'll see what happens now. "I'll take the summer to think over
things. "I've been here 11 years, I've enjoyed every minute. "I don't know
what the future holds. "I just want to thank everyone here for what they've
done for me so far.
"I'm sure a lot of people hope I stay – but when games are limited sometimes
you have to do what's best for your career."
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Tuesday, June 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th June 2014
Crest consultation update
WHUFC.com
whufc.com provides a further update on the plans to consult supporters on
the Club's crest
09.06.2014
As West Ham United's move to the Olympic Stadium edges ever closer, the Club
is paying close attention to how it can better reflect and celebrate the
things that make West Ham so special, particularly its rich history, in the
lead up to the move to its stunning new home. As part of this process, the
Club have been looking at its values and how they can be expressed in a more
effective way in the lead up to 2016. That has led to a discussion about
whether it might be the right time to evolve the Club's crest, but for
clarity not the Club name, a topic which has been discussed in detail with
the Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) at two recent meetings. The Club was keen
to receive genuine and honest feedback and the SAB members have duly
obliged, providing extremely valuable opinion both at the meetings and via
email. While the Club understand that only the upcoming full supporter
consultation will give a true picture of fan feeling, the feedback received
so far has suggested that evolving the Club's crest is something that should
be explored further with the wider fanbase. There are clearly some areas
that the SAB members are more widely supportive of and other areas they
would like the Club to look at in more detail. The feedback so far suggests
there is broad support for a more traditional crest as used during the 50s,
with the crossed hammers given more prominence. There were also discussions
at the meeting about potentially adding a representation of the Club's new
home (the Olympic Stadium) to the crest, during which the Club explained its
preference for no graphical representation of any Hammers stadium, either
past or present, to allow the strong symbol of the crossed hammers to shine
through. That view appears to have been generally supported by the SAB.
The possibility of further highlighting the Club's standing in London by
reflecting that in some way on the Club's crest was also debated. This
element led to the liveliest debate and the widest variety of views and,
therefore, it will be a key area of focus during the consultation process.
Some fed back that it was an appropriate reflection of the Club's direction,
while others felt that 1895 should be added to better demonstrate West Ham's
standing and history. Others said they favoured a return to a more
traditional, retro crest only. The Board want to reiterate that any
evolution of the badge will only proceed with the full support of the fans
and a subsequent ballot and that there will be no change to the Club name.
As stated clearly in the SAB meeting, the intention was always to provide
the presentation to the wider supporter base as soon as possible and this
will be made available on whufc.com on Friday to allow some time for the
creative direction that is being explored to be revisited in response to the
SAB feedback. Supporters will then have the ability to submit feedback, both
online and in person, with open days for fans to view and discuss plans at
the Boleyn Ground scheduled for Saturday 14, Thursday 19 and Tuesday 24
June.
Further details will be announced this week, but the Club can confirm the
consultation will be open to all Season Ticket Holders and Members (Academy,
Corporate and Official Supporters' Clubs) aged 16 and over.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup Countdown - Adrian
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian assesses his country's chances of success
in Brazil
09.06.2014
Spanish domination of international tournaments has been a feature of the
last six years, since La Roja lifted the European Championship in 2008.
Since then a World Cup and another Euro title have followed as the Iberian
nation put their stamp on the world game. West Ham United's own Spanish
import, Adrian, will be watching his nation's fortunes with interest this
summer, although he expects the competition to be fierce. He said: "Of
course I am looking forward to the World Cup. It's the best tournament in
the world with the best players and best national teams. "I'll be enjoying a
holiday with my family but I'll certainly be watching! It'll be difficult
for Spain, because every other team respects them for winning the Euro Cup,
the World Cup and the Euros again. "It's hard because everyone wants to win
this year, but Spain do have a really good team. "I know Pepe Reina and I
speak with him sometimes, and I've played against a lot of the players, but
I don't have many relationships with them. "At the moment Spain have really
good goalkeepers. Victor Valdes is injured, but David de Gea will go there
with Pepe Reina and Iker Casillas. "Playing for Spain is the next step in my
ambitions. I need to keep going with West Ham, keep improving and why not?"
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Following the family tradition
WHUFC.com
Academy schoolboy Louis Yuill has emulated grandfather William by being
called-up by Scotland
09.06.2014
West Ham United schoolboy Louis Yuill will be following the family tradition
after being called-up by Scotland U16s for the first time. The Academy
youngster's grandfather William played age-group football for Scotland
himself, turning out against England at Villa Park in 1948. Now, 66 years
later, the 15-year-old midfielder has been included in the Scotland U16
squad for an International Development Tournament, which kicks-off in
Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday.
There, Yuill and his Scottish team-mates will take on the host nation,
Azerbaijan and Montenegro in a four-team tournament spanning four days.
Scotland will play Azerbaijan on 11 June and finally Montenegro two days
later. Yuill's father Ian, who spent time with West Ham himself before being
released at the age of 18, was himself a semi-professional with a number of
Essex-based clubs and is now a technical coach working with Academy
prospects of all ages. Ian is naturally proud to see his son following in
his own father's footsteps, saying: "My dad William was a footballer himself
who played for Scotland against England at Villa Park. He is 86 now and is
delighted for Louis. "Personally, I'm over the moon. Louis has been going up
to Scotland for the last year or so for training camps and, following the
most recent one, we had a call from the coach Scot Gemmill saying he had
done really and might be picked in the next U16 squad and now he has been.
"Unlike many of the Academy schoolboys of his age, who are taught at the
Academy, Louis still attends his old school, St John's in Billericay. He
puts in ever so much effort with his school work and travelling to and from
Rush Green for training, so we are delighted that his hard work has paid
off. "I, my wife Janice and his school sportsmaster Ian Barnard are all
immensely proud of his call-up."
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Aston Villa: Joe Cole set to join on free transfer
BBC.co.uk
Aston Villa are set to sign former England midfielder Joe Cole pending the
results of a medical. The 32-year-old, who won 56 caps for England, is
available on a free transfer after being released by West Ham last month.
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Joe Cole to remain in claret and blue
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Aston Villa are on the verge of signing Joe Cole, who was released by West
Ham at the end of last season. The 31-year-old was handed a free transfer at
the end of last season after a second spell at West Ham lasted just 18
months. However it has emerged this evening that Villa are preparing to give
the former England international one final chance in the top flight.
According to Lee Clayton of the Mail, Cole is reported to be undergoing a
medical this evening ahead of a move to Villa Park. Should the move go
ahead, Villa will be Cole's fourth Premier League club following spells with
West Ham (twice), Chelsea and Liverpool.
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Big Sam beaten as Jose has the last laugh
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was on the losing side as his England side were beaten by Jose
Mourinho's Rest of the World team in last night's Soccer Aid event at Old
Trafford. A strong RotW team - featuring, amongst others, former Dutch
interenationals Edgar Davids, Edwin Van Der Saar, Jaap Stam and Clarence
Seedorf - threw away a 2-0 lead before recovering as the game entered its
final stages to record a 4-2 win. Seedorf - one of the four former Dutch
masters to play most of the game - scored a hat-trick on the night with the
RotW's final goal coming from Westlife singer Nicky Byrne. England's goals
came from Jamie Redknapp and via the penalty from Kevin Phillips, who was a
late inclusion as replacement for Teddy Sheringham (currently studying for
his coaching badges). Allardyce, who recently fought off attempts to have
him removed from his position at West Ham was a good sport throughout the
event and even performed a perfect handstand during one notable training
session, to the delight of his squad. Almost 70,000 attended the game at Old
Trafford on Sunday night with more than £2million raised for UNICEF - a
figure that will be doubled by the Government, taking the total to
£4.2million.
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Club promise consultation over crest change
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have confirmed that any changes to the club's crest will
only proceed with the backing of supporters. In order to answer a number of
concerns that have emerged since it was leaked that West Ham United's crest
was subject to change as part of the move to the Olympic Stadium two years
from now, the club have released a statement clarifying the situation. In
the statement, which you may read in full on whufc.com, the club confirmed
that any changes would require the backing of the entire fanbase whilst
expressing their thanks to the Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) for their
assistance in preliminary discussions. "The Club have been looking at its
values and how they can be expressed in a more effective way in the lead up
to 2016," read the statement. "That has led to a discussion about whether it
might be the right time to evolve the Club's crest, a topic which has been
discussed in detail with the SAB at two recent meetings. "The Club was keen
to receive genuine and honest feedback and the SAB members have duly
obliged, providing extremely valuable opinion both at the meetings and via
email. "While the Club understand that only the upcoming full supporter
consultation will give a true picture of fan feeling, the feedback received
so far has suggested that evolving the Club's crest is something that should
be explored further with the wider fanbase.
"Feedback so far suggests there is broad support for a more traditional
crest as used during the 1950s, with the crossed hammers given more
prominence.
"There were also discussions at the meeting about potentially adding a
representation of the Olympic Stadium to the crest, during which the Club
explained its preference for no graphical representation of any Hammers
stadium, either past or present, to allow the strong symbol of the crossed
hammers to shine through. "That view appears to have been generally
supported by the SAB. The possibility of further highlighting the Club's
standing in London by reflecting that in some way on the Club's crest was
also debated."
The statement also confirmed that all supporters aged 16 and over will be
able to take part in the consultation process. Two open days - during which
fans may visit the Boleyn Ground in order to discuss the club's plans for
Stratford - were also announced; these are set for June 19th and 24th.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Taylor rejects contract offer
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Further to our story this morning regarding Matt Taylor's contractual
situation, it has been confirmed that the club's offer has been rejected.
The 32-year-old midfielder was offered a new deal by West Ham United, but
that has been rejected - meaning Taylor is now a free agent. The news was
confirmed by Jack Sullivan, son of co-owner David this lunchtime. "Matt
Taylor has turned down our improved offer and is now a free agent," he
wrote. "We genuinely wish him all the best wherever he goes, a very nice
guy." The former Luton and Portsmouth player became Sam Allardyce's third
signing when he joined West Ham from Bolton in a £2.2million deal three
years ago as part of the Championship squad. He went on to make 90
appearances for West Ham during the following three seasons, scoring just
three goals against former club Portsmouth (Championship, 2011/12), Fulham
(Premier League, 2012/13) and Burnley (Capital One Cup, 2013/14). KUMB.com
would like to wish Matt all the very best for the future.
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Hammers set for Scottish trip?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham could in line for a short trip to Scotland as part of their
pre-season summer activities. According to the Evening Telegraph, Dundee
United are hoping to lure the Hammers to Tannadice Park this summer for a
friendly ahead of the 2014/15 campaign after their previously-booked clash
with Bristol City was cancelled. Talks with view to a potential friendly
between West Ham and Jackie McNamara's side are understood to have already
taken place although no firm decision has been made of yet. West Ham have a
long history of touring Scotland in pre-season although it has been several
years since the Hammers last went north of the border.
2014/15 pre-season programme
12th July: Stevenage FC (a)
16th July: Ipswich Town (a)
23rd July: Wellington Phoenix (Football United Tour) (a)
26th July: Sydney FC (Football United Tour) (n)
2nd August: Schalke (Schalke 04 Cup) (a)
3rd August: Malaga (Schalke 04 Cup) (n)
To be confirmed
Date unknown: Dundee United (a)
9th August: Sampdoria (h)
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HAMMERS LINKED WITH URBY EMANUELSON
By Sean Whetstone 9 Jun 2014 at 19:19
West Ham Till I Die
Former Fulham loanee Urby Emanuelson has emerged as the third transfer
target for the left back position joining Martin Olssen and Timothee
Kolodziejczak as potential transfers.
The 27 year old AC Milan left back who can also play as a winger or
midfielder is said to be keen for a return to the Premier League. In January
2013 he joined Fulham until the end of the season playing 14 times and
scoring one goal. He is a product of Ajax's youth system, joining them from
Voorland SC. He made 173 appearances for Ajax scoring 17 goals before
joining AC Milan in 2011 for around 2.5m euros. He has made 74 appearances
for AC Milan scoring 3 times. Last season he made 32 appearances, 23 in the
league, 8 in Europe and 1 in the Coppa cup. He was also a member of the
Dutch national team up until 2012 earning 16 caps.
AC Milan are on the look out for a new left back and Erby is deemed surplus
to requirements.
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MATTY TAYLOR TO BE RELEASED
By Sean Whetstone 9 Jun 2014 at 13:19
West Ham Till I Die
Matthew Taylor has been released from the club following a break down on a
new deal. The 32 year old midfielder had been offered a short term deal on
reduced terms but Taylor and his agents turned it down. Matt Taylor joined
West Ham United from Bolton Wanderers in July 2011. He made 76 appearances
for the hammers finding the net two times. He previously played for Luton
Town, Portsmouth and the England Under-21 side. Last season he scored with a
trademark long-range effort in West Ham United's 6-2 win at Cork City in
their opening pre-season fixture. After featuring in the Capital One Cup,
made his first Barclays Premier League appearance of the campaign from the
bench in the 0-0 draw at Southampton on 15 September 2013 and scored from
the spot to help the Hammers defeat Burnley 2-0 in the Capital One Cup
fourth round on 29 October 2013. He was an important element of the team
that helped preserve the Hammers' clean sheet in their 0-0 draw at Chelsea
on 29 January 2014 and became a crucial part of the Hammers' revival in the
second half of the campaign in a defensive midfield role.
Earlier this year Taylor reflected at his time at West Ham : "The older you
get, to be running out at Old Trafford, Chelsea or Upton Park, to be in that
position as a professional footballer, you appreciate it. The older you get,
you realise it's not around for ever. When you're younger you don't think
that far ahead, because you're trying to get to the next stage of your
career. The older you get, you appreciate everything you have and everything
still to come."
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'New man' keeps Hammers waiting
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 9, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's bid to land Everton's scout Tony Henry as head of the player
recruitment remains on hold. The board agreed to make the new appointment at
the same time as they announced that a new attacking coach would be brought
in. However, whilst Teddy Sheringham has since arrived to take up the
attacking duties, all had gone silent on progress in bringing Henry to the
club. However, a senior source at the club revealed exclusively to
ClaretandHugh tonight that there was still optimism the deal to bring Henry
in would be done . He explained: "He's a top quality person and we are
waiting for him to get back to us – we're hopeful. "If we don't get him it's
not a certainty we will fill the position as he really is the person we
want."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid's shock wage demands
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 9, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are delaying talks with Winston Reid's agents on a new deal after
discovering the defender is looking for a "top six" wage deal. With a year
to go on his current contract, the board have learned that the player will
want around £75,000 a week to stay at the club beyond next summer. And with
other options available to them, the club is in no rush to pursue such a
deal. Were they to agree to the terms being sought it would represent a near
100 per cent pay increase. And this morning ClaretandHugh was told: "Talks
will be held in due course but they want £75k which is crazy money." The
club are ready to play a waiting game knowing that for the Kiwi to get what
he wants it would need a top six club to come in. That hasn't happened for
a player who found it tougher to hold his place in the team after injury
last term yet has been regularly linked with Arsenal and Liverpool. Reid has
a year left on his deal and may choose, anyway, to let the deal run down and
leave on a Bosman next summer.
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That Was The Season That Was 2013-14 - Part One
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Gordon Thrower
It's the time of year when we traditionally look back and utter those famous
words "where the hell did those last 12 months go?" In part one of our
annual trawl through the archives Gordon Thrower looks at all the happenings
in pre-season. Expect to see stuff about Andy Carroll, transfer rumours and
the strange bizarre world of Joe Kinnear.....
June 2013
The month started with us looking on in pity at the victims of cruel medical
experiments that makes up a significant proportion of the support at
Millwall. They were complaining, as usual, at the club's attempts to improve
itself by appointing ex-Hammer Steve Lomas as manager. Like the stuff they
use in nuclear power stations to slow down the rate of the reaction, Glenn
Roeder comes in as no.2 to Lomas to ensure that the rate of any progress is
not too quick.
Winston Reid adds the kumb.com player of the year award to all the other
ones he won in 2012/13. Barry Hearn is "Hackett of the Year" for the second
year running for services against West Ham United. Hearn seeks a judicial
review over the result.
The "will he-won't he" saga over Andy Carroll's transfer continues. The
clubs having agreed a fee for the player, he jets off to the States where
photos show him bumping into Ashley Cole. The player's increasing maturity
is highlighted by the fact that none of the photos show him decking the
obnoxious Cole.
We make another signing in the goalkeeping dept. Adrian's full name is
Adrian San Miguel del Castillo, which translates into English as Adrian
Carling Black Label Castle. Or something. The 'keeper comes in from Real
Betis on a free transfer, landing a three year contract with a club option
to extend for another two years.
Also in is Stockport youngster Danny Whitehead. Signed for a nominal fee,
the player is described as "a bit slight – but we'll work on that". Down to
Nathan's with you then son.
Someone who could never be described as being "a bit slight" is Benni
McCarthy who has just announced his retirement from football having spent
the last couple of years with Orlando Pirates. A word of advice Benni – try
and do a bit of training. Once you retire the pounds just pile on otherwise.
In Israel, the England U21 team are playing in the U21 Euro tournament. Well
some of them are. Some players who qualify for the tournament are deemed too
big for such events, in contrast to other countries who send their best
players within the age group to form their squads. England lose all three
group matches to Italy, Norway and Israel. Stuart Pearce's contract as U21
boss is not renewed as a result.
Amongst the speculation involving Carroll is a recurring but unfounded
rumour that Newcastle will try to re-sign the player. However, they seem to
have their own problems as the amazing news that Joe Kinnear is to return to
the club is announced. By Joe Kinnear.
Kinnear gives what is, even by his standards, a bizarre interview to
Talksport. During the interview Kinnear bigs up his career to date by making
all sorts of claims as to his achievements. Such as having played over 400
times for Spurs (he didn't), having won the Manager Of The Year award three
times (he didn't), having made a big profit on John Hartson who he had
signed on a free (er,signed for £7,5m), having signed current Magpies
'keeper Tim Krul for the club (Krul arrived two years before Kinnear) etc
etc. Kinnear then claims that he is more intelligent than the Geordie fans.
Just the memory is going a bit then Joe.
The announcement of Kinnear's arrival by the club itself is delayed while
they await an "I'm looking forward to working with Joe" statement from Alan
Pardew. None is forthcoming and the announcement, when it finally appears,
tellingly lacks any input from the manager. Whilst we're all still killing
ourselves laughing at Kinnear's claim to have discovered the source of the
Nile during the half-time interval of a Tyne-Wear derby, Managing Director
Derek Llambias announces his resignation, citing no reason whatsoever for
his departure on the same day as Kinnear's arrival. Just coincidence we
expect.
Kinnear, in a rare lucid moment, states that his first priority will be to
find another striker, prompting further speculation that Carroll will turn
up on his radar. The announcement that Carroll is due to have a medical at
the Shaun Wright-Phillips Memorial Medical centre prior to signing for us is
most welcome then. Even if, as the announcement does, the proclamation comes
from the twitter account of young Jack Sullivan. "I could whack him
sometimes" claims co-chairman David Gold, though for the benefit of any
employees of Newham Social Services dept. who may be reading this, the
comment was made with tongue firmly in cheek.
Having successfully completed his medical (despite a heel injury that
threatens to keep the player out for the start of the season) the signing of
Carroll is finally confirmed, and there is much speculation in the papers as
to the size of the deal. Most estimates are so wide of the mark it is
believed that Joe Kinnear wrote them.
The fixtures are announced and for the second time in three years we are
given a home match against Cardiff City on the opening day of the season.
Although kick-off is slated for 3pm we await details of what hour the Met's
finest will allow us to play the match. Cardiff supporters, meanwhile, gird
themselves for an arduous journey to John O'Groats from whence the police
will insist they pick up their tickets, ten minutes before kick-off.
Over in Brazil the Confederations Cup is taking place. Whilst, admirably,
the BBC is covering the tournament, most of the English media are treating
the competition as some sort of sideshow. A sort of Intertoto for
Internationals if you will. This is partly prompted by the fact that, since
qualification depends on being either world or federation champions (or, as
in the case of Brazil, being the host nation), England's chances of ever
playing in the thing are rather slim.
Despite the stereotypical image of your average Brazilian being football
mad, the tournament is not meeting with universal approval from the
population. Riots and protests take place as a reaction to increasing
transport costs and public disquiet over the cost of hosting the 2014 World
Cup and the 2016 Olympics. Sepp Blatter, meanwhile, joins Newcastle's
Director Of Football on Planet Kinnear by announcing that FIFA's reputation
has been "enhanced" by the whole situation. It's a strange claim even by
Blatter's standards, though admittedly the corrupt FIFA is starting from a
pretty low base, reputationally speaking.
The tournament itself includes Brazil (hosts), Spain (World/Euro Champions),
Italy (Euro runners up), Uruguay (Copa America holders), Nigeria (African
Champions), Mexico (Concacacacacacaf), Japan (Asia) and Tahiti (Oceania).
Those locals who aren't actually rioting get fully behind the Tahiti side,
particularly in their match against Spain. The Spanish field the effective
equivalent of a Rugby tour midweek side and Fernando Torres pulls off the
neat trick of looking useless in a match that sees him score four. Spain
declare at ten.
The semi-finals pan out nicely so that the South Americans play each other
as do the Europeans, thus ensuring a South America v Europe final. Brazil
beat Uruguay 2-1 whilst Spain v Italy goes to penalties. Fourteen penalties
are taken. Thirteen are perfect, Bonucci's skied effort knocking Italy out
to set up a Brazil v Spain final.
The month ends with the host nation prevailing over an out of sorts Spain
who have a lousy evening, missing a penalty and having Iniesta sent off in a
3-0 defeat.
July
The transfer window officially opens as the players return to pre-season
training. Hammers' fans panic at the news that Titus Bramble, a free agent,
is training with the club. Thankfully the Jack Sullivan twitter feed puts
our minds at rest by confirming that the club is just doing the player a
favour, enabling him to keep fit while he looks for a new club. The
collective sigh of relief causes the Dartford Bridge to be closed to
high-sided vehicles.
Swansea seem to be closing in on Vitesse Arnhem striker William Bony.
Reports suggesting that we've put in a £10m bid of our own are apparently
wide of the mark, though we have apparently made an official enquiry with
talks stalling on the Dutch side's insistence that the fee be paid up front.
It's departure time for Robert Hall. Despite being offered a new deal by the
club, the promising youngster elects to pursue a better chance of a first
team place with Bolton Wanderers, with whom he spent part of 2012/13 on
loan. Shame that one – we thought he showed promise. Arriving at Bolton on
the same day is Blackpool's Alex Baptiste – whose torrent of sour grapes
after the play-off final was hilarious in the extreme. Bolton eh Alex? Not
quite made it into the Premier League then? Shame.
Meanwhile, back on Planet Kinnear, the Newcastle Director of Football is at
it again. "I'm head and shoulders above everyone else" he claims. As the
manufacturers of a well-known dandruff shampoo consider legal action, he
comes out with another baffling list of "facts". "Every club has a director
of football" he claims. Ours is probably hiding on an island somewhere with
Man Utd and Arsenal's then. "I've been a manager for 35 years he adds"
proving his grasp of maths is about as strong as his grasp on reality. "I've
won every award there is as a player" well, except the league Joe. And the
European Cup. And the (much missed) Cup-Winners Cup. And we must have missed
the Republic Of Ireland's Euro and World Cup triumphs. "I had two years at
Forest" (less than a year), "two years winning promotion at Luton" (one
relegation, one promotion), and almost two years at Newcastle (er, 8 months.
If you include three of sick leave). I was first man on the moon you know,
he continues…
At the Boleyn there are some changes in the club's ownership. David Sullivan
becomes the majority shareholder after picking up a further 25% from CB
Holdings (aka "The Icelandics"). One day these will belong to Jack you know.
If only there were some sort of social media outlet he could use to tell us
when that happens.
Henry Redknapp is given some help at QPR as it is announced that Steve
McLaren is to join the club as a coach, though it's not announced which
accent he'll be using.
An unexploded WWII bomb is found in Victoria Dock. Joe Kinnear volunteers to
act as Director Of Defusing Things – "I did dozens of these during the war.
Hundreds probably" he claims. After a nanosecond's consideration the army
decides to make do with one of the few bomb disposal experts that they
didn't make redundant in the latest round of cuts. Talking of which, the
Government announces that the Territorial Army is to be named the Army
Reserve. I give it a month before it becomes the Army Development Squad.
Sullivan Jr is busy again on twitter, announcing that Gary O'Neil has
decided to leave the club, his contract having expired on 30 June. Although
offered a new deal by the club the thought of being understudy to Mark Noble
once more presumably doesn't appeal to the player. Sullivan Jr's choice of
words on twitter could have been better made: "we'll get better in".
A pretty decent weekend for British sport starts off with the Lions
clinching a 2-1 series win over the Aussies, the 41-16 win in the final test
marking a record points tally for the Lions. Always a hoot to see Aussies
thumped as well. On the same day Chris Froome takes over the yellow jersey
in the Tour De France. It's not recorded whether any Aussies were harmed in
the process.
The first of the pre-season matches takes place in Ireland where Cork City
are beaten 6-2. Diarra, Cole, Taylor, McCallum, Noble (pen) and Morrison are
on target, with Noble also missing a penalty. Most worrying aspect of the
day is the sight of Titus Bramble in a West Ham shirt.
More British sporting success as the 77 year wait for a Wimbledon men's
singles winner comes to an end when Andy Murray defeats Novak Djokovic in
straight sets. A number of records are set as, for the first time, a
Scotsman manages to survive four hours in the sun without burning, Also,
it's the first recorded time that a Scotsman has left a court with a
victory. The win marks the first win for a Briton in the Men's single since
Joe Kinnear's victory in 1961.
Also at Wimbledon, the Ladies' singles is won by Marion Bartoli. The BBC's
John Inverdale suggests that her success is down to the fact that she isn't
a "looker" and thus worked harder at her tennis. No, really he did.
Meanwhile Steve Coogan is seen frantically amending the script to the
forthcoming Alan Partridge movie.
In Nigeria, something smells a bit fishy as promotion rivals Plateau United
Feeders and Police Machine go into their final matches level on points
Feeders lead their match 5-0 at half time only to discover that Machine have
gone one better. We suspect that a quiet word is had at half time as Feeders
net 72 times in the second half to run our 79-0 winners. Obviously the same
conversation is had at the venue for the Police Machine's match as they net
61 times in their match to win 67-0. The Nigerian FA suspends all four teams
involved plus the match officials pending an enquiry. Meanwhile the Feeders'
coach is angry demanding to know who it was who had grassed on him.
As the window begins to get interesting it is reported that we are
interested in signing Stuart Downing from Liverpool. "We have no interest in
signing Stuart Downing from Liverpoool" confirms Neil McDonald who, because
he is not Harry Redknapp, is believed.
Pre-season continues with a visit to Boreham Wood where, as part of the
Ruddock (Pelly not Neil) deal, we play a friendly. Morrison and Vaz Te score
before the interval when the whole side is replaced. Kevin Nolan adds
another to see us run out 3-0 winners.
Promising Barcelona prospect Gerard Deulofeu signs a loan deal with Everton.
Not something we'd have picked up on but for Jack Sullivan's twitter
revelation that we had been tying to sign the player ourselves. We are also
linked with Zdravko Kuzmanovic, a Serbian midfielder currently playing with
Inter. Our spell-checking software will be pleased.
Up the road in Thurrock (or Purfleet as they were once known) relegation to
the Rymans League Southern Division is confirmed as the FA reject the club's
appeal against a 3 point deduction. Their crime was to field Joel Barnett.
Barnett had played for a team in Yorkshire that had folded owing a few bob
in unpaid fines, the cost of which had been split between the responsible
players and staff. Barnett's failure to pay his share – all of £16 from a
sending off – resulted in his suspension. Both Thurrock and the player claim
ignorance. "He didn't know because he was in prison". Sheffield United store
the information for future reference – "We'll be in that league soon enough
so it'll be handy to have some cash to line the Chairman's pockets with when
we get there" comments a spokesman, though possibly not an official one.
Transfer speculation continues with the news that the club has taken Dutch
midfielder Orlando Engelaar on trial, the player having been released by PSV
during the summer. Engelaar plays the second half of the next match, a 2-0
win at Bournemouth. Nolan and Collison are on target in the match that
doubles as a testimonial for Cherries' defender Stephen Purches.
It is revealed that we have put in for a work permit for Colombian forward
Duvan Zapata. The 22 year-old is uncapped, something that is usually a
problem for the authorities. Meanwhile we are highly concerned at our
headline writer's failure to use "Viva Zapata". Poor lad must be unwell.
As he weather heats up in what those of us with long memories used to call
"summer", those of us starved of football tune into the Women's European
Championships, which being held in Sweden.. The England team starts in a
manner that is depressingly familiar to those of us who have watched their
male counterparts over the years. England lose their first match 3-2 to
Spain, the winner coming in the last minute of stoppage time.
Still at least one England side is doing ok, as the cricketers take a 1-0
lead in the Ashes series. It's a splendid game of cricket as a 98 from 19
year-old Ashton Agar, formerly a service area on the M40, batting at no.11
gives the Aussies a 1st innings lead. An incident-packed match sees the
Aussies fall 15 runs shy of the 311 that would have given them a remarkable
win.
Every year about this time there's usually a bonkers story about our former
"saviour" Savio. 2013 is no exception. Last heard of plying his trade in the
German lower leagues whilst nicking stuff from his teammates' pockets in the
changing rooms (having been released from a prison for faking his own
kidnapping in Thailand), Savio has turned up in the Israeli Premier League.
Savio? In a country with lots of guns? With hostile neighbours? What could
possibly go wrong?
Talking of bonkers, the ever so barking Mohamad Fayed sells Fulham to
Jacksonville Cougars (apparently they do that rugby in motorcycle helmets
thing that passes for sport in the USA) owner Shahid Khan. Khan immediately
cancels plans to erect statues to Jimmy Saville and Stuart Hall at Craven
Cottage, whilst an orderly queue starts amongst Fulham supporters eager to
request that the one Fayed put up of Michael Jackson be ditched. "I'll
listen to the fans" suggests Khan. "It's a listed monument – if he moves it
there'll be trouble" claims Fayed, taking a leaf out of the Joe Kinnear book
by ignoring the fact that a) the statue isn't a listed monument (as if), and
b) it's got nothing to do with him anymore anyway.
The England Women's team continues in a manner that is depressingly familiar
to those of us who have watched their male counterparts over the years. This
time they come within seconds of exiting Euro 2013 before a late, late
equaliser gives them a 1-1 draw against Russia, thus retaining a glimmer of
hope of progressing to the knockout stages.
"Sources close to" Wayne Rooney say that the player is "angry and confused".
Whilst most of us wonder where the news actually is in that statement, it
seems that spudface's anger and confusion results from Manchester United's
comments on the player's future with the club. Meanwhile David Moyes ensures
that Rooney will go nowhere by insisting that he places any transfer request
in writing.
We notch another win on the pre-season road as we run out 2-1 winners at
Colchester. Cole and Collins are on target. Best news of all is that Titus
Bramble is turning out for Ipswich on the same night. A major wind farm
capable of powering the whole of Essex is constructed to take advantage of
the resulting sigh of relief.
A wheelchair-bound Man Utd supporter appears on the box to campaign for
better facilities for the disabled. A laudable aim perhaps, but one that is
totally undermined by her complaint of having to sit near home supporters on
her visits to the Boleyn. Presumably, as a Man Utd supporter she is
frightened of learning something about football. For example, the name of
some other grounds at which disabled supporters are forced to sit with
opposition supporters. (Clue: Last time I was on crutches a certain ground
in Salford adopted that policy).
The England Women's team continues in a manner that is depressingly familiar
to those of us who have watched their male counterparts over the years. This
time they are outplayed by the French who are worthy 3-0 winners. The result
means that none of the England teams involved in tournaments (U20, U21 and
Women's) have actually won a match this summer. Food for thought.
Chelsea confirm they have had a bid for Wayne Rooney knocked back by Man
Utd, despite Coleen having agreed personal terms with John Terry.
Joe Kinnear is strangely silent for once as it is revealed that Newcastle's
Papisse Cisse has not travelled to Portugal for pre-season. The problem lies
with the Geordies' choice of shirt sponsors for 2013/14, a payday loan
company. This conflicts with the player's religious beliefs. The situation
calls for tact and diplomacy which is why, presumably, Kinnear is kept well
away from the press on this one. Meanwhile it is rumoured that Cisse's
failure to travel has cost him a £5,000 fine, a figure which will rise to
£2,165,043.60 if not paid within 3 weeks.
West Ham officially withdraw from the race to sign Zapata. The official
announcement comes, as ever, via Sullivan Jr who informs us that there is no
prospect of a work permit being granted due to the player's lack of full
international recognition.
Another player not coming is Sporting Gijon's Oscar Trejo. Spanish sources
suggest we had placed a bid for the Argentinian midfielder, though there's
nothing to suggest that this had been the case from this side of the
Channel. In the end the player goes to Tolouse.
We suffer our first pre-season defeat in Germany, Joe Cole netting our goal
in a 4-1 defeat to 1 FSV Mainz. Facebook is alive with the usual "Allardyce
Out" knee jerk reactions from those who fail to differentiate between
pre-season and, er, season.
Other sports news and the Aussies receive another Ashes thrashing, this time
by 367 runs. The result comes in on the same day as Chris Froome wins the
Tour De France, a second consecutive British win. So, we beat the Aussies at
cricket and the French at cycling. Still long odds on the hat-trick though,
as giving the Germans a thumping at football looms as far away as ever.
We receive sad news from across the Atlantic as we hear of the sad passing
of Phil Woosnam. Woosnam joined us from Leyton Orient where he combined a
teaching career with playing as an amateur. He actually won his first cap
for Wales as an amateur and only turned professional on signing for Ted
Fenton's side in 1958. After over 150 games for us he moved on to Villa, but
it is his work in the USA for which the wider football world will remember
him. Starting out as a player with the Atlanta Chiefs he progressed to
coaching then moved onto the administration side of things. He was
commissioner of the NASL (the earlier version of the current MLS) during its
glory years and was also instrumental in securing the 1994 World Cup for the
States. RIP Woosie.
David Sullivan officially takes over Jack's twitter account for a Q&A
session. The responses are pretty much what one would expect and end up
being quoted left right and centre in the press, though for some reason the
Co-chairman's reply to the query "what do you want to be when you grow up"
(A: taller) seems strangely absent from the back pages.
David Cameron announces that future internet users will have to actively
opt-in should they wish to receive porn. On the same day the Duchess of
Cambridge finally drops a much-delayed male heir, prompting many of us to
ask if we can also have a button to opt in for news of the royal baby. The
media coverage is hilariously over the top with one BBC presenter actually
informing us that "it was always going to be a girl or a boy". Nation shall
speak crap unto nation then.
The Germans defeat the Norwegians 1-0 in the women's Euro 2013. John
Inverdale is kept well away from the commentary team. Some revenge is gained
on behalf of the late King Olaf as we return to winning ways with a 3-1 win
over Hamburger SV as our German tour continues. A seemingly rejuvenated and
rehabilitated Diarra is on the scoresheet along with Tomkins and Morrison
(pen).
The tour concludes with a 3-0 win over Eintracht Braunschweig. Maiga is the
man of the moment, scoring two and setting up another for Diame. Maiga's
appearance on the radar comes at a time when talks are continuing with
Saloman Kalou. Although a fee of a reported £3.5m has been agreed with Lille
the player appears to be reluctant to take up a supporting role alongside
Andy Carroll,
Papisse Cisse's reluctance to wear the logo of a payday lender on his
Newcastle shirt comes to an end. His religious objections to the logo have
been mysteriously resolved. In a completely unrelated news story Papisse
Cisse is plastered all over the national press playing blackjack in a
Newcastle casino.
Mo Diame turns down a reported approach from Everton "I looked it up and
it's in Liverpool" the player explains.
As the Kalou deal seems to stall attention turns to Malmo attacking
midfielder Jiloan Hamad. Liverpool's Raheem Stirling, who spent some time
working under Tony Carr as a kid, is also linked with a loan deal as Jack
Sullivan promises a new striker "within 48 hrs". August should be
interesting then.
August
The world of football is rocked to its foundations as Kieron Dyer announces
his retirement. Mainly because the world of football had thought that this
event had occurred several years previously. Possibly the unluckiest player
in history, Dyer's mood would have been improved by the arrival of the
cheque from the insurance company had he not sustained a really nasty paper
cut when opening the envelope it came in.
The team jet off once more to warmer climes to take part in a tournament in
Portugal involving Braga and Sporting Lisbon. Ravel Morrison shines again,
as we beat Sporting 3-2. Nolan gets the other. Things get a bit baffling at
the end as, despite the victory, the teams have a penalty shoot-out to help
decide tournament placings in the event of a tie. Things get even more
baffling as the shoot-out finishes 4-4. Answers on a postcard please.
There's a bit of a to do as it becomes apparent that Gent's Ilombo Pele
M'boyo is a potential target. Jack Sullivan's twitter account becomes the
thermometer through which the supporters' waters are tested and the general
consensus contains the words "barge" and "pole". The club's interest is
quietly dropped but not before some Belgian Equal Opps jobsworth mutters
something about discrimination. There are also concerns that a 12 year-old's
twitter account is being used to discuss the rehabilitation of sex
offenders.
We go down 1-0 to Braga in the final game of the tournament, though we did
get some consolation from the bizarre and pointless penalty shoot-out which
we again draw – 3-3 this time. We still have no idea why.
One of the stronger rumours of the summer links us with raiding feeder club
Liverpool for Stewart Downing. And not a striker. Despite the likelihood
that Andy Carroll will be missing for the opening weeks of the season.
"Come and watch top class European football" scream the adverts, which, as
an afterthought, mention that our opponents are to be Portuguese outfit
Pacos De Ferreira, who, despite hardly being a household name, have
apparently qualified for the so-called Champions League. Unlike Spurs.
Morrison is on target after 16 seconds. Maiga doubles the lead. The "top
class European opponents" can only muster a second half consolation effort
as we win 2-1. Despite the Portuguese opponents, we don't bother with a
penalty shoot-out.
Stewart Downing's arrrival is confirmed for a fee of a reported £5m. That's
the Downing we have no interest in signing apparently. Still no striker
though as it is confirmed that Andy Carroll will definitely miss the
season-opener at home to Cardiff. It is announced that Billy Bonds MBE will
be given a "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the club before the match.
So we go into the season a shade light in the striking department. Still
there's a few weeks to go in the window so we're bound to sign a striker or
two and, in any case, Andy Carroll will be back before you know it.
Won't he?
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
whufc.com provides a further update on the plans to consult supporters on
the Club's crest
09.06.2014
As West Ham United's move to the Olympic Stadium edges ever closer, the Club
is paying close attention to how it can better reflect and celebrate the
things that make West Ham so special, particularly its rich history, in the
lead up to the move to its stunning new home. As part of this process, the
Club have been looking at its values and how they can be expressed in a more
effective way in the lead up to 2016. That has led to a discussion about
whether it might be the right time to evolve the Club's crest, but for
clarity not the Club name, a topic which has been discussed in detail with
the Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) at two recent meetings. The Club was keen
to receive genuine and honest feedback and the SAB members have duly
obliged, providing extremely valuable opinion both at the meetings and via
email. While the Club understand that only the upcoming full supporter
consultation will give a true picture of fan feeling, the feedback received
so far has suggested that evolving the Club's crest is something that should
be explored further with the wider fanbase. There are clearly some areas
that the SAB members are more widely supportive of and other areas they
would like the Club to look at in more detail. The feedback so far suggests
there is broad support for a more traditional crest as used during the 50s,
with the crossed hammers given more prominence. There were also discussions
at the meeting about potentially adding a representation of the Club's new
home (the Olympic Stadium) to the crest, during which the Club explained its
preference for no graphical representation of any Hammers stadium, either
past or present, to allow the strong symbol of the crossed hammers to shine
through. That view appears to have been generally supported by the SAB.
The possibility of further highlighting the Club's standing in London by
reflecting that in some way on the Club's crest was also debated. This
element led to the liveliest debate and the widest variety of views and,
therefore, it will be a key area of focus during the consultation process.
Some fed back that it was an appropriate reflection of the Club's direction,
while others felt that 1895 should be added to better demonstrate West Ham's
standing and history. Others said they favoured a return to a more
traditional, retro crest only. The Board want to reiterate that any
evolution of the badge will only proceed with the full support of the fans
and a subsequent ballot and that there will be no change to the Club name.
As stated clearly in the SAB meeting, the intention was always to provide
the presentation to the wider supporter base as soon as possible and this
will be made available on whufc.com on Friday to allow some time for the
creative direction that is being explored to be revisited in response to the
SAB feedback. Supporters will then have the ability to submit feedback, both
online and in person, with open days for fans to view and discuss plans at
the Boleyn Ground scheduled for Saturday 14, Thursday 19 and Tuesday 24
June.
Further details will be announced this week, but the Club can confirm the
consultation will be open to all Season Ticket Holders and Members (Academy,
Corporate and Official Supporters' Clubs) aged 16 and over.
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World Cup Countdown - Adrian
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian assesses his country's chances of success
in Brazil
09.06.2014
Spanish domination of international tournaments has been a feature of the
last six years, since La Roja lifted the European Championship in 2008.
Since then a World Cup and another Euro title have followed as the Iberian
nation put their stamp on the world game. West Ham United's own Spanish
import, Adrian, will be watching his nation's fortunes with interest this
summer, although he expects the competition to be fierce. He said: "Of
course I am looking forward to the World Cup. It's the best tournament in
the world with the best players and best national teams. "I'll be enjoying a
holiday with my family but I'll certainly be watching! It'll be difficult
for Spain, because every other team respects them for winning the Euro Cup,
the World Cup and the Euros again. "It's hard because everyone wants to win
this year, but Spain do have a really good team. "I know Pepe Reina and I
speak with him sometimes, and I've played against a lot of the players, but
I don't have many relationships with them. "At the moment Spain have really
good goalkeepers. Victor Valdes is injured, but David de Gea will go there
with Pepe Reina and Iker Casillas. "Playing for Spain is the next step in my
ambitions. I need to keep going with West Ham, keep improving and why not?"
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Following the family tradition
WHUFC.com
Academy schoolboy Louis Yuill has emulated grandfather William by being
called-up by Scotland
09.06.2014
West Ham United schoolboy Louis Yuill will be following the family tradition
after being called-up by Scotland U16s for the first time. The Academy
youngster's grandfather William played age-group football for Scotland
himself, turning out against England at Villa Park in 1948. Now, 66 years
later, the 15-year-old midfielder has been included in the Scotland U16
squad for an International Development Tournament, which kicks-off in
Bosnia-Herzegovina on Tuesday.
There, Yuill and his Scottish team-mates will take on the host nation,
Azerbaijan and Montenegro in a four-team tournament spanning four days.
Scotland will play Azerbaijan on 11 June and finally Montenegro two days
later. Yuill's father Ian, who spent time with West Ham himself before being
released at the age of 18, was himself a semi-professional with a number of
Essex-based clubs and is now a technical coach working with Academy
prospects of all ages. Ian is naturally proud to see his son following in
his own father's footsteps, saying: "My dad William was a footballer himself
who played for Scotland against England at Villa Park. He is 86 now and is
delighted for Louis. "Personally, I'm over the moon. Louis has been going up
to Scotland for the last year or so for training camps and, following the
most recent one, we had a call from the coach Scot Gemmill saying he had
done really and might be picked in the next U16 squad and now he has been.
"Unlike many of the Academy schoolboys of his age, who are taught at the
Academy, Louis still attends his old school, St John's in Billericay. He
puts in ever so much effort with his school work and travelling to and from
Rush Green for training, so we are delighted that his hard work has paid
off. "I, my wife Janice and his school sportsmaster Ian Barnard are all
immensely proud of his call-up."
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Aston Villa: Joe Cole set to join on free transfer
BBC.co.uk
Aston Villa are set to sign former England midfielder Joe Cole pending the
results of a medical. The 32-year-old, who won 56 caps for England, is
available on a free transfer after being released by West Ham last month.
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Joe Cole to remain in claret and blue
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Aston Villa are on the verge of signing Joe Cole, who was released by West
Ham at the end of last season. The 31-year-old was handed a free transfer at
the end of last season after a second spell at West Ham lasted just 18
months. However it has emerged this evening that Villa are preparing to give
the former England international one final chance in the top flight.
According to Lee Clayton of the Mail, Cole is reported to be undergoing a
medical this evening ahead of a move to Villa Park. Should the move go
ahead, Villa will be Cole's fourth Premier League club following spells with
West Ham (twice), Chelsea and Liverpool.
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Big Sam beaten as Jose has the last laugh
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was on the losing side as his England side were beaten by Jose
Mourinho's Rest of the World team in last night's Soccer Aid event at Old
Trafford. A strong RotW team - featuring, amongst others, former Dutch
interenationals Edgar Davids, Edwin Van Der Saar, Jaap Stam and Clarence
Seedorf - threw away a 2-0 lead before recovering as the game entered its
final stages to record a 4-2 win. Seedorf - one of the four former Dutch
masters to play most of the game - scored a hat-trick on the night with the
RotW's final goal coming from Westlife singer Nicky Byrne. England's goals
came from Jamie Redknapp and via the penalty from Kevin Phillips, who was a
late inclusion as replacement for Teddy Sheringham (currently studying for
his coaching badges). Allardyce, who recently fought off attempts to have
him removed from his position at West Ham was a good sport throughout the
event and even performed a perfect handstand during one notable training
session, to the delight of his squad. Almost 70,000 attended the game at Old
Trafford on Sunday night with more than £2million raised for UNICEF - a
figure that will be doubled by the Government, taking the total to
£4.2million.
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Club promise consultation over crest change
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have confirmed that any changes to the club's crest will
only proceed with the backing of supporters. In order to answer a number of
concerns that have emerged since it was leaked that West Ham United's crest
was subject to change as part of the move to the Olympic Stadium two years
from now, the club have released a statement clarifying the situation. In
the statement, which you may read in full on whufc.com, the club confirmed
that any changes would require the backing of the entire fanbase whilst
expressing their thanks to the Supporter Advisory Board (SAB) for their
assistance in preliminary discussions. "The Club have been looking at its
values and how they can be expressed in a more effective way in the lead up
to 2016," read the statement. "That has led to a discussion about whether it
might be the right time to evolve the Club's crest, a topic which has been
discussed in detail with the SAB at two recent meetings. "The Club was keen
to receive genuine and honest feedback and the SAB members have duly
obliged, providing extremely valuable opinion both at the meetings and via
email. "While the Club understand that only the upcoming full supporter
consultation will give a true picture of fan feeling, the feedback received
so far has suggested that evolving the Club's crest is something that should
be explored further with the wider fanbase.
"Feedback so far suggests there is broad support for a more traditional
crest as used during the 1950s, with the crossed hammers given more
prominence.
"There were also discussions at the meeting about potentially adding a
representation of the Olympic Stadium to the crest, during which the Club
explained its preference for no graphical representation of any Hammers
stadium, either past or present, to allow the strong symbol of the crossed
hammers to shine through. "That view appears to have been generally
supported by the SAB. The possibility of further highlighting the Club's
standing in London by reflecting that in some way on the Club's crest was
also debated."
The statement also confirmed that all supporters aged 16 and over will be
able to take part in the consultation process. Two open days - during which
fans may visit the Boleyn Ground in order to discuss the club's plans for
Stratford - were also announced; these are set for June 19th and 24th.
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Taylor rejects contract offer
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
Further to our story this morning regarding Matt Taylor's contractual
situation, it has been confirmed that the club's offer has been rejected.
The 32-year-old midfielder was offered a new deal by West Ham United, but
that has been rejected - meaning Taylor is now a free agent. The news was
confirmed by Jack Sullivan, son of co-owner David this lunchtime. "Matt
Taylor has turned down our improved offer and is now a free agent," he
wrote. "We genuinely wish him all the best wherever he goes, a very nice
guy." The former Luton and Portsmouth player became Sam Allardyce's third
signing when he joined West Ham from Bolton in a £2.2million deal three
years ago as part of the Championship squad. He went on to make 90
appearances for West Ham during the following three seasons, scoring just
three goals against former club Portsmouth (Championship, 2011/12), Fulham
(Premier League, 2012/13) and Burnley (Capital One Cup, 2013/14). KUMB.com
would like to wish Matt all the very best for the future.
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Hammers set for Scottish trip?
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham could in line for a short trip to Scotland as part of their
pre-season summer activities. According to the Evening Telegraph, Dundee
United are hoping to lure the Hammers to Tannadice Park this summer for a
friendly ahead of the 2014/15 campaign after their previously-booked clash
with Bristol City was cancelled. Talks with view to a potential friendly
between West Ham and Jackie McNamara's side are understood to have already
taken place although no firm decision has been made of yet. West Ham have a
long history of touring Scotland in pre-season although it has been several
years since the Hammers last went north of the border.
2014/15 pre-season programme
12th July: Stevenage FC (a)
16th July: Ipswich Town (a)
23rd July: Wellington Phoenix (Football United Tour) (a)
26th July: Sydney FC (Football United Tour) (n)
2nd August: Schalke (Schalke 04 Cup) (a)
3rd August: Malaga (Schalke 04 Cup) (n)
To be confirmed
Date unknown: Dundee United (a)
9th August: Sampdoria (h)
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HAMMERS LINKED WITH URBY EMANUELSON
By Sean Whetstone 9 Jun 2014 at 19:19
West Ham Till I Die
Former Fulham loanee Urby Emanuelson has emerged as the third transfer
target for the left back position joining Martin Olssen and Timothee
Kolodziejczak as potential transfers.
The 27 year old AC Milan left back who can also play as a winger or
midfielder is said to be keen for a return to the Premier League. In January
2013 he joined Fulham until the end of the season playing 14 times and
scoring one goal. He is a product of Ajax's youth system, joining them from
Voorland SC. He made 173 appearances for Ajax scoring 17 goals before
joining AC Milan in 2011 for around 2.5m euros. He has made 74 appearances
for AC Milan scoring 3 times. Last season he made 32 appearances, 23 in the
league, 8 in Europe and 1 in the Coppa cup. He was also a member of the
Dutch national team up until 2012 earning 16 caps.
AC Milan are on the look out for a new left back and Erby is deemed surplus
to requirements.
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MATTY TAYLOR TO BE RELEASED
By Sean Whetstone 9 Jun 2014 at 13:19
West Ham Till I Die
Matthew Taylor has been released from the club following a break down on a
new deal. The 32 year old midfielder had been offered a short term deal on
reduced terms but Taylor and his agents turned it down. Matt Taylor joined
West Ham United from Bolton Wanderers in July 2011. He made 76 appearances
for the hammers finding the net two times. He previously played for Luton
Town, Portsmouth and the England Under-21 side. Last season he scored with a
trademark long-range effort in West Ham United's 6-2 win at Cork City in
their opening pre-season fixture. After featuring in the Capital One Cup,
made his first Barclays Premier League appearance of the campaign from the
bench in the 0-0 draw at Southampton on 15 September 2013 and scored from
the spot to help the Hammers defeat Burnley 2-0 in the Capital One Cup
fourth round on 29 October 2013. He was an important element of the team
that helped preserve the Hammers' clean sheet in their 0-0 draw at Chelsea
on 29 January 2014 and became a crucial part of the Hammers' revival in the
second half of the campaign in a defensive midfield role.
Earlier this year Taylor reflected at his time at West Ham : "The older you
get, to be running out at Old Trafford, Chelsea or Upton Park, to be in that
position as a professional footballer, you appreciate it. The older you get,
you realise it's not around for ever. When you're younger you don't think
that far ahead, because you're trying to get to the next stage of your
career. The older you get, you appreciate everything you have and everything
still to come."
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'New man' keeps Hammers waiting
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 9, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's bid to land Everton's scout Tony Henry as head of the player
recruitment remains on hold. The board agreed to make the new appointment at
the same time as they announced that a new attacking coach would be brought
in. However, whilst Teddy Sheringham has since arrived to take up the
attacking duties, all had gone silent on progress in bringing Henry to the
club. However, a senior source at the club revealed exclusively to
ClaretandHugh tonight that there was still optimism the deal to bring Henry
in would be done . He explained: "He's a top quality person and we are
waiting for him to get back to us – we're hopeful. "If we don't get him it's
not a certainty we will fill the position as he really is the person we
want."
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Reid's shock wage demands
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 9, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are delaying talks with Winston Reid's agents on a new deal after
discovering the defender is looking for a "top six" wage deal. With a year
to go on his current contract, the board have learned that the player will
want around £75,000 a week to stay at the club beyond next summer. And with
other options available to them, the club is in no rush to pursue such a
deal. Were they to agree to the terms being sought it would represent a near
100 per cent pay increase. And this morning ClaretandHugh was told: "Talks
will be held in due course but they want £75k which is crazy money." The
club are ready to play a waiting game knowing that for the Kiwi to get what
he wants it would need a top six club to come in. That hasn't happened for
a player who found it tougher to hold his place in the team after injury
last term yet has been regularly linked with Arsenal and Liverpool. Reid has
a year left on his deal and may choose, anyway, to let the deal run down and
leave on a Bosman next summer.
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That Was The Season That Was 2013-14 - Part One
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 9th June 2014
By: Gordon Thrower
It's the time of year when we traditionally look back and utter those famous
words "where the hell did those last 12 months go?" In part one of our
annual trawl through the archives Gordon Thrower looks at all the happenings
in pre-season. Expect to see stuff about Andy Carroll, transfer rumours and
the strange bizarre world of Joe Kinnear.....
June 2013
The month started with us looking on in pity at the victims of cruel medical
experiments that makes up a significant proportion of the support at
Millwall. They were complaining, as usual, at the club's attempts to improve
itself by appointing ex-Hammer Steve Lomas as manager. Like the stuff they
use in nuclear power stations to slow down the rate of the reaction, Glenn
Roeder comes in as no.2 to Lomas to ensure that the rate of any progress is
not too quick.
Winston Reid adds the kumb.com player of the year award to all the other
ones he won in 2012/13. Barry Hearn is "Hackett of the Year" for the second
year running for services against West Ham United. Hearn seeks a judicial
review over the result.
The "will he-won't he" saga over Andy Carroll's transfer continues. The
clubs having agreed a fee for the player, he jets off to the States where
photos show him bumping into Ashley Cole. The player's increasing maturity
is highlighted by the fact that none of the photos show him decking the
obnoxious Cole.
We make another signing in the goalkeeping dept. Adrian's full name is
Adrian San Miguel del Castillo, which translates into English as Adrian
Carling Black Label Castle. Or something. The 'keeper comes in from Real
Betis on a free transfer, landing a three year contract with a club option
to extend for another two years.
Also in is Stockport youngster Danny Whitehead. Signed for a nominal fee,
the player is described as "a bit slight – but we'll work on that". Down to
Nathan's with you then son.
Someone who could never be described as being "a bit slight" is Benni
McCarthy who has just announced his retirement from football having spent
the last couple of years with Orlando Pirates. A word of advice Benni – try
and do a bit of training. Once you retire the pounds just pile on otherwise.
In Israel, the England U21 team are playing in the U21 Euro tournament. Well
some of them are. Some players who qualify for the tournament are deemed too
big for such events, in contrast to other countries who send their best
players within the age group to form their squads. England lose all three
group matches to Italy, Norway and Israel. Stuart Pearce's contract as U21
boss is not renewed as a result.
Amongst the speculation involving Carroll is a recurring but unfounded
rumour that Newcastle will try to re-sign the player. However, they seem to
have their own problems as the amazing news that Joe Kinnear is to return to
the club is announced. By Joe Kinnear.
Kinnear gives what is, even by his standards, a bizarre interview to
Talksport. During the interview Kinnear bigs up his career to date by making
all sorts of claims as to his achievements. Such as having played over 400
times for Spurs (he didn't), having won the Manager Of The Year award three
times (he didn't), having made a big profit on John Hartson who he had
signed on a free (er,signed for £7,5m), having signed current Magpies
'keeper Tim Krul for the club (Krul arrived two years before Kinnear) etc
etc. Kinnear then claims that he is more intelligent than the Geordie fans.
Just the memory is going a bit then Joe.
The announcement of Kinnear's arrival by the club itself is delayed while
they await an "I'm looking forward to working with Joe" statement from Alan
Pardew. None is forthcoming and the announcement, when it finally appears,
tellingly lacks any input from the manager. Whilst we're all still killing
ourselves laughing at Kinnear's claim to have discovered the source of the
Nile during the half-time interval of a Tyne-Wear derby, Managing Director
Derek Llambias announces his resignation, citing no reason whatsoever for
his departure on the same day as Kinnear's arrival. Just coincidence we
expect.
Kinnear, in a rare lucid moment, states that his first priority will be to
find another striker, prompting further speculation that Carroll will turn
up on his radar. The announcement that Carroll is due to have a medical at
the Shaun Wright-Phillips Memorial Medical centre prior to signing for us is
most welcome then. Even if, as the announcement does, the proclamation comes
from the twitter account of young Jack Sullivan. "I could whack him
sometimes" claims co-chairman David Gold, though for the benefit of any
employees of Newham Social Services dept. who may be reading this, the
comment was made with tongue firmly in cheek.
Having successfully completed his medical (despite a heel injury that
threatens to keep the player out for the start of the season) the signing of
Carroll is finally confirmed, and there is much speculation in the papers as
to the size of the deal. Most estimates are so wide of the mark it is
believed that Joe Kinnear wrote them.
The fixtures are announced and for the second time in three years we are
given a home match against Cardiff City on the opening day of the season.
Although kick-off is slated for 3pm we await details of what hour the Met's
finest will allow us to play the match. Cardiff supporters, meanwhile, gird
themselves for an arduous journey to John O'Groats from whence the police
will insist they pick up their tickets, ten minutes before kick-off.
Over in Brazil the Confederations Cup is taking place. Whilst, admirably,
the BBC is covering the tournament, most of the English media are treating
the competition as some sort of sideshow. A sort of Intertoto for
Internationals if you will. This is partly prompted by the fact that, since
qualification depends on being either world or federation champions (or, as
in the case of Brazil, being the host nation), England's chances of ever
playing in the thing are rather slim.
Despite the stereotypical image of your average Brazilian being football
mad, the tournament is not meeting with universal approval from the
population. Riots and protests take place as a reaction to increasing
transport costs and public disquiet over the cost of hosting the 2014 World
Cup and the 2016 Olympics. Sepp Blatter, meanwhile, joins Newcastle's
Director Of Football on Planet Kinnear by announcing that FIFA's reputation
has been "enhanced" by the whole situation. It's a strange claim even by
Blatter's standards, though admittedly the corrupt FIFA is starting from a
pretty low base, reputationally speaking.
The tournament itself includes Brazil (hosts), Spain (World/Euro Champions),
Italy (Euro runners up), Uruguay (Copa America holders), Nigeria (African
Champions), Mexico (Concacacacacacaf), Japan (Asia) and Tahiti (Oceania).
Those locals who aren't actually rioting get fully behind the Tahiti side,
particularly in their match against Spain. The Spanish field the effective
equivalent of a Rugby tour midweek side and Fernando Torres pulls off the
neat trick of looking useless in a match that sees him score four. Spain
declare at ten.
The semi-finals pan out nicely so that the South Americans play each other
as do the Europeans, thus ensuring a South America v Europe final. Brazil
beat Uruguay 2-1 whilst Spain v Italy goes to penalties. Fourteen penalties
are taken. Thirteen are perfect, Bonucci's skied effort knocking Italy out
to set up a Brazil v Spain final.
The month ends with the host nation prevailing over an out of sorts Spain
who have a lousy evening, missing a penalty and having Iniesta sent off in a
3-0 defeat.
July
The transfer window officially opens as the players return to pre-season
training. Hammers' fans panic at the news that Titus Bramble, a free agent,
is training with the club. Thankfully the Jack Sullivan twitter feed puts
our minds at rest by confirming that the club is just doing the player a
favour, enabling him to keep fit while he looks for a new club. The
collective sigh of relief causes the Dartford Bridge to be closed to
high-sided vehicles.
Swansea seem to be closing in on Vitesse Arnhem striker William Bony.
Reports suggesting that we've put in a £10m bid of our own are apparently
wide of the mark, though we have apparently made an official enquiry with
talks stalling on the Dutch side's insistence that the fee be paid up front.
It's departure time for Robert Hall. Despite being offered a new deal by the
club, the promising youngster elects to pursue a better chance of a first
team place with Bolton Wanderers, with whom he spent part of 2012/13 on
loan. Shame that one – we thought he showed promise. Arriving at Bolton on
the same day is Blackpool's Alex Baptiste – whose torrent of sour grapes
after the play-off final was hilarious in the extreme. Bolton eh Alex? Not
quite made it into the Premier League then? Shame.
Meanwhile, back on Planet Kinnear, the Newcastle Director of Football is at
it again. "I'm head and shoulders above everyone else" he claims. As the
manufacturers of a well-known dandruff shampoo consider legal action, he
comes out with another baffling list of "facts". "Every club has a director
of football" he claims. Ours is probably hiding on an island somewhere with
Man Utd and Arsenal's then. "I've been a manager for 35 years he adds"
proving his grasp of maths is about as strong as his grasp on reality. "I've
won every award there is as a player" well, except the league Joe. And the
European Cup. And the (much missed) Cup-Winners Cup. And we must have missed
the Republic Of Ireland's Euro and World Cup triumphs. "I had two years at
Forest" (less than a year), "two years winning promotion at Luton" (one
relegation, one promotion), and almost two years at Newcastle (er, 8 months.
If you include three of sick leave). I was first man on the moon you know,
he continues…
At the Boleyn there are some changes in the club's ownership. David Sullivan
becomes the majority shareholder after picking up a further 25% from CB
Holdings (aka "The Icelandics"). One day these will belong to Jack you know.
If only there were some sort of social media outlet he could use to tell us
when that happens.
Henry Redknapp is given some help at QPR as it is announced that Steve
McLaren is to join the club as a coach, though it's not announced which
accent he'll be using.
An unexploded WWII bomb is found in Victoria Dock. Joe Kinnear volunteers to
act as Director Of Defusing Things – "I did dozens of these during the war.
Hundreds probably" he claims. After a nanosecond's consideration the army
decides to make do with one of the few bomb disposal experts that they
didn't make redundant in the latest round of cuts. Talking of which, the
Government announces that the Territorial Army is to be named the Army
Reserve. I give it a month before it becomes the Army Development Squad.
Sullivan Jr is busy again on twitter, announcing that Gary O'Neil has
decided to leave the club, his contract having expired on 30 June. Although
offered a new deal by the club the thought of being understudy to Mark Noble
once more presumably doesn't appeal to the player. Sullivan Jr's choice of
words on twitter could have been better made: "we'll get better in".
A pretty decent weekend for British sport starts off with the Lions
clinching a 2-1 series win over the Aussies, the 41-16 win in the final test
marking a record points tally for the Lions. Always a hoot to see Aussies
thumped as well. On the same day Chris Froome takes over the yellow jersey
in the Tour De France. It's not recorded whether any Aussies were harmed in
the process.
The first of the pre-season matches takes place in Ireland where Cork City
are beaten 6-2. Diarra, Cole, Taylor, McCallum, Noble (pen) and Morrison are
on target, with Noble also missing a penalty. Most worrying aspect of the
day is the sight of Titus Bramble in a West Ham shirt.
More British sporting success as the 77 year wait for a Wimbledon men's
singles winner comes to an end when Andy Murray defeats Novak Djokovic in
straight sets. A number of records are set as, for the first time, a
Scotsman manages to survive four hours in the sun without burning, Also,
it's the first recorded time that a Scotsman has left a court with a
victory. The win marks the first win for a Briton in the Men's single since
Joe Kinnear's victory in 1961.
Also at Wimbledon, the Ladies' singles is won by Marion Bartoli. The BBC's
John Inverdale suggests that her success is down to the fact that she isn't
a "looker" and thus worked harder at her tennis. No, really he did.
Meanwhile Steve Coogan is seen frantically amending the script to the
forthcoming Alan Partridge movie.
In Nigeria, something smells a bit fishy as promotion rivals Plateau United
Feeders and Police Machine go into their final matches level on points
Feeders lead their match 5-0 at half time only to discover that Machine have
gone one better. We suspect that a quiet word is had at half time as Feeders
net 72 times in the second half to run our 79-0 winners. Obviously the same
conversation is had at the venue for the Police Machine's match as they net
61 times in their match to win 67-0. The Nigerian FA suspends all four teams
involved plus the match officials pending an enquiry. Meanwhile the Feeders'
coach is angry demanding to know who it was who had grassed on him.
As the window begins to get interesting it is reported that we are
interested in signing Stuart Downing from Liverpool. "We have no interest in
signing Stuart Downing from Liverpoool" confirms Neil McDonald who, because
he is not Harry Redknapp, is believed.
Pre-season continues with a visit to Boreham Wood where, as part of the
Ruddock (Pelly not Neil) deal, we play a friendly. Morrison and Vaz Te score
before the interval when the whole side is replaced. Kevin Nolan adds
another to see us run out 3-0 winners.
Promising Barcelona prospect Gerard Deulofeu signs a loan deal with Everton.
Not something we'd have picked up on but for Jack Sullivan's twitter
revelation that we had been tying to sign the player ourselves. We are also
linked with Zdravko Kuzmanovic, a Serbian midfielder currently playing with
Inter. Our spell-checking software will be pleased.
Up the road in Thurrock (or Purfleet as they were once known) relegation to
the Rymans League Southern Division is confirmed as the FA reject the club's
appeal against a 3 point deduction. Their crime was to field Joel Barnett.
Barnett had played for a team in Yorkshire that had folded owing a few bob
in unpaid fines, the cost of which had been split between the responsible
players and staff. Barnett's failure to pay his share – all of £16 from a
sending off – resulted in his suspension. Both Thurrock and the player claim
ignorance. "He didn't know because he was in prison". Sheffield United store
the information for future reference – "We'll be in that league soon enough
so it'll be handy to have some cash to line the Chairman's pockets with when
we get there" comments a spokesman, though possibly not an official one.
Transfer speculation continues with the news that the club has taken Dutch
midfielder Orlando Engelaar on trial, the player having been released by PSV
during the summer. Engelaar plays the second half of the next match, a 2-0
win at Bournemouth. Nolan and Collison are on target in the match that
doubles as a testimonial for Cherries' defender Stephen Purches.
It is revealed that we have put in for a work permit for Colombian forward
Duvan Zapata. The 22 year-old is uncapped, something that is usually a
problem for the authorities. Meanwhile we are highly concerned at our
headline writer's failure to use "Viva Zapata". Poor lad must be unwell.
As he weather heats up in what those of us with long memories used to call
"summer", those of us starved of football tune into the Women's European
Championships, which being held in Sweden.. The England team starts in a
manner that is depressingly familiar to those of us who have watched their
male counterparts over the years. England lose their first match 3-2 to
Spain, the winner coming in the last minute of stoppage time.
Still at least one England side is doing ok, as the cricketers take a 1-0
lead in the Ashes series. It's a splendid game of cricket as a 98 from 19
year-old Ashton Agar, formerly a service area on the M40, batting at no.11
gives the Aussies a 1st innings lead. An incident-packed match sees the
Aussies fall 15 runs shy of the 311 that would have given them a remarkable
win.
Every year about this time there's usually a bonkers story about our former
"saviour" Savio. 2013 is no exception. Last heard of plying his trade in the
German lower leagues whilst nicking stuff from his teammates' pockets in the
changing rooms (having been released from a prison for faking his own
kidnapping in Thailand), Savio has turned up in the Israeli Premier League.
Savio? In a country with lots of guns? With hostile neighbours? What could
possibly go wrong?
Talking of bonkers, the ever so barking Mohamad Fayed sells Fulham to
Jacksonville Cougars (apparently they do that rugby in motorcycle helmets
thing that passes for sport in the USA) owner Shahid Khan. Khan immediately
cancels plans to erect statues to Jimmy Saville and Stuart Hall at Craven
Cottage, whilst an orderly queue starts amongst Fulham supporters eager to
request that the one Fayed put up of Michael Jackson be ditched. "I'll
listen to the fans" suggests Khan. "It's a listed monument – if he moves it
there'll be trouble" claims Fayed, taking a leaf out of the Joe Kinnear book
by ignoring the fact that a) the statue isn't a listed monument (as if), and
b) it's got nothing to do with him anymore anyway.
The England Women's team continues in a manner that is depressingly familiar
to those of us who have watched their male counterparts over the years. This
time they come within seconds of exiting Euro 2013 before a late, late
equaliser gives them a 1-1 draw against Russia, thus retaining a glimmer of
hope of progressing to the knockout stages.
"Sources close to" Wayne Rooney say that the player is "angry and confused".
Whilst most of us wonder where the news actually is in that statement, it
seems that spudface's anger and confusion results from Manchester United's
comments on the player's future with the club. Meanwhile David Moyes ensures
that Rooney will go nowhere by insisting that he places any transfer request
in writing.
We notch another win on the pre-season road as we run out 2-1 winners at
Colchester. Cole and Collins are on target. Best news of all is that Titus
Bramble is turning out for Ipswich on the same night. A major wind farm
capable of powering the whole of Essex is constructed to take advantage of
the resulting sigh of relief.
A wheelchair-bound Man Utd supporter appears on the box to campaign for
better facilities for the disabled. A laudable aim perhaps, but one that is
totally undermined by her complaint of having to sit near home supporters on
her visits to the Boleyn. Presumably, as a Man Utd supporter she is
frightened of learning something about football. For example, the name of
some other grounds at which disabled supporters are forced to sit with
opposition supporters. (Clue: Last time I was on crutches a certain ground
in Salford adopted that policy).
The England Women's team continues in a manner that is depressingly familiar
to those of us who have watched their male counterparts over the years. This
time they are outplayed by the French who are worthy 3-0 winners. The result
means that none of the England teams involved in tournaments (U20, U21 and
Women's) have actually won a match this summer. Food for thought.
Chelsea confirm they have had a bid for Wayne Rooney knocked back by Man
Utd, despite Coleen having agreed personal terms with John Terry.
Joe Kinnear is strangely silent for once as it is revealed that Newcastle's
Papisse Cisse has not travelled to Portugal for pre-season. The problem lies
with the Geordies' choice of shirt sponsors for 2013/14, a payday loan
company. This conflicts with the player's religious beliefs. The situation
calls for tact and diplomacy which is why, presumably, Kinnear is kept well
away from the press on this one. Meanwhile it is rumoured that Cisse's
failure to travel has cost him a £5,000 fine, a figure which will rise to
£2,165,043.60 if not paid within 3 weeks.
West Ham officially withdraw from the race to sign Zapata. The official
announcement comes, as ever, via Sullivan Jr who informs us that there is no
prospect of a work permit being granted due to the player's lack of full
international recognition.
Another player not coming is Sporting Gijon's Oscar Trejo. Spanish sources
suggest we had placed a bid for the Argentinian midfielder, though there's
nothing to suggest that this had been the case from this side of the
Channel. In the end the player goes to Tolouse.
We suffer our first pre-season defeat in Germany, Joe Cole netting our goal
in a 4-1 defeat to 1 FSV Mainz. Facebook is alive with the usual "Allardyce
Out" knee jerk reactions from those who fail to differentiate between
pre-season and, er, season.
Other sports news and the Aussies receive another Ashes thrashing, this time
by 367 runs. The result comes in on the same day as Chris Froome wins the
Tour De France, a second consecutive British win. So, we beat the Aussies at
cricket and the French at cycling. Still long odds on the hat-trick though,
as giving the Germans a thumping at football looms as far away as ever.
We receive sad news from across the Atlantic as we hear of the sad passing
of Phil Woosnam. Woosnam joined us from Leyton Orient where he combined a
teaching career with playing as an amateur. He actually won his first cap
for Wales as an amateur and only turned professional on signing for Ted
Fenton's side in 1958. After over 150 games for us he moved on to Villa, but
it is his work in the USA for which the wider football world will remember
him. Starting out as a player with the Atlanta Chiefs he progressed to
coaching then moved onto the administration side of things. He was
commissioner of the NASL (the earlier version of the current MLS) during its
glory years and was also instrumental in securing the 1994 World Cup for the
States. RIP Woosie.
David Sullivan officially takes over Jack's twitter account for a Q&A
session. The responses are pretty much what one would expect and end up
being quoted left right and centre in the press, though for some reason the
Co-chairman's reply to the query "what do you want to be when you grow up"
(A: taller) seems strangely absent from the back pages.
David Cameron announces that future internet users will have to actively
opt-in should they wish to receive porn. On the same day the Duchess of
Cambridge finally drops a much-delayed male heir, prompting many of us to
ask if we can also have a button to opt in for news of the royal baby. The
media coverage is hilariously over the top with one BBC presenter actually
informing us that "it was always going to be a girl or a boy". Nation shall
speak crap unto nation then.
The Germans defeat the Norwegians 1-0 in the women's Euro 2013. John
Inverdale is kept well away from the commentary team. Some revenge is gained
on behalf of the late King Olaf as we return to winning ways with a 3-1 win
over Hamburger SV as our German tour continues. A seemingly rejuvenated and
rehabilitated Diarra is on the scoresheet along with Tomkins and Morrison
(pen).
The tour concludes with a 3-0 win over Eintracht Braunschweig. Maiga is the
man of the moment, scoring two and setting up another for Diame. Maiga's
appearance on the radar comes at a time when talks are continuing with
Saloman Kalou. Although a fee of a reported £3.5m has been agreed with Lille
the player appears to be reluctant to take up a supporting role alongside
Andy Carroll,
Papisse Cisse's reluctance to wear the logo of a payday lender on his
Newcastle shirt comes to an end. His religious objections to the logo have
been mysteriously resolved. In a completely unrelated news story Papisse
Cisse is plastered all over the national press playing blackjack in a
Newcastle casino.
Mo Diame turns down a reported approach from Everton "I looked it up and
it's in Liverpool" the player explains.
As the Kalou deal seems to stall attention turns to Malmo attacking
midfielder Jiloan Hamad. Liverpool's Raheem Stirling, who spent some time
working under Tony Carr as a kid, is also linked with a loan deal as Jack
Sullivan promises a new striker "within 48 hrs". August should be
interesting then.
August
The world of football is rocked to its foundations as Kieron Dyer announces
his retirement. Mainly because the world of football had thought that this
event had occurred several years previously. Possibly the unluckiest player
in history, Dyer's mood would have been improved by the arrival of the
cheque from the insurance company had he not sustained a really nasty paper
cut when opening the envelope it came in.
The team jet off once more to warmer climes to take part in a tournament in
Portugal involving Braga and Sporting Lisbon. Ravel Morrison shines again,
as we beat Sporting 3-2. Nolan gets the other. Things get a bit baffling at
the end as, despite the victory, the teams have a penalty shoot-out to help
decide tournament placings in the event of a tie. Things get even more
baffling as the shoot-out finishes 4-4. Answers on a postcard please.
There's a bit of a to do as it becomes apparent that Gent's Ilombo Pele
M'boyo is a potential target. Jack Sullivan's twitter account becomes the
thermometer through which the supporters' waters are tested and the general
consensus contains the words "barge" and "pole". The club's interest is
quietly dropped but not before some Belgian Equal Opps jobsworth mutters
something about discrimination. There are also concerns that a 12 year-old's
twitter account is being used to discuss the rehabilitation of sex
offenders.
We go down 1-0 to Braga in the final game of the tournament, though we did
get some consolation from the bizarre and pointless penalty shoot-out which
we again draw – 3-3 this time. We still have no idea why.
One of the stronger rumours of the summer links us with raiding feeder club
Liverpool for Stewart Downing. And not a striker. Despite the likelihood
that Andy Carroll will be missing for the opening weeks of the season.
"Come and watch top class European football" scream the adverts, which, as
an afterthought, mention that our opponents are to be Portuguese outfit
Pacos De Ferreira, who, despite hardly being a household name, have
apparently qualified for the so-called Champions League. Unlike Spurs.
Morrison is on target after 16 seconds. Maiga doubles the lead. The "top
class European opponents" can only muster a second half consolation effort
as we win 2-1. Despite the Portuguese opponents, we don't bother with a
penalty shoot-out.
Stewart Downing's arrrival is confirmed for a fee of a reported £5m. That's
the Downing we have no interest in signing apparently. Still no striker
though as it is confirmed that Andy Carroll will definitely miss the
season-opener at home to Cardiff. It is announced that Billy Bonds MBE will
be given a "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the club before the match.
So we go into the season a shade light in the striking department. Still
there's a few weeks to go in the window so we're bound to sign a striker or
two and, in any case, Andy Carroll will be back before you know it.
Won't he?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Monday, June 9
Daily WHUFC News - 9th June 2014
West Ham told to pay £10million if they want Red Bull Salzburg winger Sadio
Mane
By SIMON JONES
Daily Mail
West Ham will have to up their off to £10million if they want to sign Sadio
Mane. Manager Sam Allardyce is keen on the Senegal winger who has also been
watched by Newcastle and Manchester City but they may struggle to match his
club Red Bull Salzburg's valuation. West Ham have offered £5.2m with add-ons
but Salzburg want more if they are to lose the 22-year-old who scored 17
goals last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham should be first in the queue if Ashley Cole leaves Chelsea
Sunday 8 Jun 2014 6:12 pm
Metro.co.uk
Whist the summer departures of Joe Cole and Jack Collison may have left a
hole in the affections of many fans where two of their favourite players
used to be, George McCartney's exit is more significant because it leaves a
whole in the team, and a big decision over who should fill it. But West Ham
could save themselves a lot of time – and airmiles – by going for someone
not too far away, who may well be available, and who is definitely world
class. Chelsea's Ashley Cole.
Few players in football provoke quite such strong opinions from fans as
Cole. Whatever you say about the former Arsenal defender – a lot of people
do, and a lot of it is not nice – unquestionably, he has been one of the
world's best defenders for the last decade, and at 33 he has plenty of
football left in him.
At Bolton, Sam Allardyce had a habit of enticing unlikely big name signings
– most famously World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff – and squeezing the last
drops of class from them. He has yet to do this at West Ham, but Cole could
be the perfect opportunity.
Perhaps wisely, considering the own goals he scored in his autobiography,
Cole lets his feet do the talking, and how; 107 England caps, a record seven
FA Cup winner's medals, a member of Arsenal's Invincibles before his
controversial switch to Chelsea, where he played a key role in the club's
rise to Europe's elite – few players in the Premier League era can hold a
candle to him. With his Chelsea career seemingly - although not definitely
– over, all this experience may be up for grabs.
In recent years left-back has been a patched-up position for West Ham –
before McCartney there was Herita Ilunga. He replaced McCartney (in his
first spell), who came after Paul Konchesky, with Jonathan Spector and Wayne
Bridge also being given a try. In fixing the hole left by McCartney, West
Ham can go one of two ways – youth, or experience.
Youth is highly-rated 22-year-old Nice defender Timothee Kolodziejczak - a
consistent pick for France's age group national teams with Champions League
experience, who has been watched by Southampton and Manchester United. But
whilst any new signing is obviously a gamble, few players are as near a cert
as Cole.
He's been everywhere, won everything and as a result, not only is he –
obviously – extremely good, he's the kind of player whose presence would
lift those around him, and inspire younger team-mates. Should Cole leave
Chelsea, he will have his pick of clubs at home and abroad. A Londoner all
his life, a return to Arsenal is highly unlikely, and Tottenham even less so
– so West Ham might be tempting.
Cole may not be the youngest player around, but he is unquestionably one of
the best. West Ham have a space that needs filling, and Cole can do it
better than almost everyone. Someone's going to benefit from all that
experience. Why not the Irons?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Two more Hammers targets named
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 8, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
ClaretandHugh has identified the remaining left backs on West Ham's s four
player wish list. We revealed last week that a quartet are being targeted in
that position and that both Martin Olssen and Timothee Kolodziejczak's
representatives Urbyhave talked to the club. However, the remaining two have
been a mystery until now but we are told that Milan's 27-year- old Urby
Emanuelson (below right) is on the Irons radar along with Frenchman Raphael
Guerreiro (above). Kolodziejczak remains at the top of the shopping list
but the latest names to be revealed are both decent players. Emanuelson is a
product of Ajax's youth system and spent part of the 2013-14 season at
Fulham making 14 appearances whilst Guerreiro is currently with French
League 1 outfit Lorient.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Mane
By SIMON JONES
Daily Mail
West Ham will have to up their off to £10million if they want to sign Sadio
Mane. Manager Sam Allardyce is keen on the Senegal winger who has also been
watched by Newcastle and Manchester City but they may struggle to match his
club Red Bull Salzburg's valuation. West Ham have offered £5.2m with add-ons
but Salzburg want more if they are to lose the 22-year-old who scored 17
goals last season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham should be first in the queue if Ashley Cole leaves Chelsea
Sunday 8 Jun 2014 6:12 pm
Metro.co.uk
Whist the summer departures of Joe Cole and Jack Collison may have left a
hole in the affections of many fans where two of their favourite players
used to be, George McCartney's exit is more significant because it leaves a
whole in the team, and a big decision over who should fill it. But West Ham
could save themselves a lot of time – and airmiles – by going for someone
not too far away, who may well be available, and who is definitely world
class. Chelsea's Ashley Cole.
Few players in football provoke quite such strong opinions from fans as
Cole. Whatever you say about the former Arsenal defender – a lot of people
do, and a lot of it is not nice – unquestionably, he has been one of the
world's best defenders for the last decade, and at 33 he has plenty of
football left in him.
At Bolton, Sam Allardyce had a habit of enticing unlikely big name signings
– most famously World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff – and squeezing the last
drops of class from them. He has yet to do this at West Ham, but Cole could
be the perfect opportunity.
Perhaps wisely, considering the own goals he scored in his autobiography,
Cole lets his feet do the talking, and how; 107 England caps, a record seven
FA Cup winner's medals, a member of Arsenal's Invincibles before his
controversial switch to Chelsea, where he played a key role in the club's
rise to Europe's elite – few players in the Premier League era can hold a
candle to him. With his Chelsea career seemingly - although not definitely
– over, all this experience may be up for grabs.
In recent years left-back has been a patched-up position for West Ham –
before McCartney there was Herita Ilunga. He replaced McCartney (in his
first spell), who came after Paul Konchesky, with Jonathan Spector and Wayne
Bridge also being given a try. In fixing the hole left by McCartney, West
Ham can go one of two ways – youth, or experience.
Youth is highly-rated 22-year-old Nice defender Timothee Kolodziejczak - a
consistent pick for France's age group national teams with Champions League
experience, who has been watched by Southampton and Manchester United. But
whilst any new signing is obviously a gamble, few players are as near a cert
as Cole.
He's been everywhere, won everything and as a result, not only is he –
obviously – extremely good, he's the kind of player whose presence would
lift those around him, and inspire younger team-mates. Should Cole leave
Chelsea, he will have his pick of clubs at home and abroad. A Londoner all
his life, a return to Arsenal is highly unlikely, and Tottenham even less so
– so West Ham might be tempting.
Cole may not be the youngest player around, but he is unquestionably one of
the best. West Ham have a space that needs filling, and Cole can do it
better than almost everyone. Someone's going to benefit from all that
experience. Why not the Irons?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Two more Hammers targets named
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 8, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
ClaretandHugh has identified the remaining left backs on West Ham's s four
player wish list. We revealed last week that a quartet are being targeted in
that position and that both Martin Olssen and Timothee Kolodziejczak's
representatives Urbyhave talked to the club. However, the remaining two have
been a mystery until now but we are told that Milan's 27-year- old Urby
Emanuelson (below right) is on the Irons radar along with Frenchman Raphael
Guerreiro (above). Kolodziejczak remains at the top of the shopping list
but the latest names to be revealed are both decent players. Emanuelson is a
product of Ajax's youth system and spent part of the 2013-14 season at
Fulham making 14 appearances whilst Guerreiro is currently with French
League 1 outfit Lorient.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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Sunday, June 8
Daily WHUFC News - 8th June 2014
On this day - 8 June
WHUFc.com
West Ham United lifted the Football League War Cup at Wembley on this day in
1940
08.06.2014
Classic match
West Ham United 1-0 Blackburn Rovers
Football League War Cup final
Saturday 8 June 1940, Wembley Stadium, London
West Ham United won their first Wembley final on this day in 1940, edging
out Blackburn Rovers 1-0 to lift the inaugural Football League War Cup. Sam
Small was the hero of the day, following up after Alec George Foreman's shot
had been parried by Blackburn goalkeeper James Barron to score the only goal
of the game on 35 minutes. A crowd of 42,300 braved the war-time bombing of
London to attend the final at Wembley Stadium, but they were not rewarded
with a classic match. West Ham began the game as favourites and they held
the upper hand for much of what was described by The Times as a 'grim' game.
When West Ham did get things right, they troubled Rovers, with Foreman, Len
Goulden, Stanley Foxall and Archie Macaulay all heavily involved. The best
move of the match culminated in Small's all-important goal. Foxall and
Goulden combined to find Foreman, whose shot looked certain to find the net
until Barron flung out a hand to make the save. However, the Blackburn
stopper was unable to recover quickly enough to prevent winger Small
finishing into the net. Both teams came close in the second half, but West
Ham goalkeeper Herman Conway and his defenders were largely untroubled by
their opponents and the Londoners held on to win.
The trophy was presented to the winning team by A.V.Alexander, First Lord of
the Admiralty, while the crowd was made up in part by servicemen. Following
the final, a number of players from both sides immediately returned to their
service units in the various Armed Forces.
War Cup final
Anniversary
England 2-0 Soviet Union
UEFA European Championship third-place play-off
8 June 1968, Stadio Olimpico, Rome
While the 1966 and 1970 FIFA World Cup finals will live long in the memory
of every West Ham United and England supporter, the 1968 UEFA European
Championship finals tournament remains relatively unknown. England had
qualified for the four-team tournament by topping a qualifying group that
included Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland before overcoming Spain 3-1 on
aggregate in a two-legged tie. EURO 1968 was held in Italy, with England
joining the host nation, Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. As world champions,
England were expected to do well, only to lose 1-0 to Yugoslavia in Florence
in the semi-finals, with Dragan Džajić scoring an 87th-minute winner. Italy
and the Soviets drew 0-0 after extra-time, with the hosts going through to
the final on a coin toss - no penalty shootouts in those days! The
third-place play-off was held in Rome on this day in 1968 and England boss
Alf Ramsey named three West Ham players in his starting XI - captain Bobby
Moore, Martin Peters and Geoff Hurst. Fellow 1966 FIFA World Cup winner
Bobby Charlton opened the scoring on 39 minutes before Hurst netted his
tenth goal for England 18 minutes after half-time to ensure England would
finish in third place. Moore and Hurst were later named in the Team of the
Tournament.
Complete record
1940 West Ham United 1-0 Blackburn Rovers (Football League War Cup final)
Played 1, Won 1, Drawn 0, Lost 0, Scored 1, Conceded 0
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup Countdown - Carlton Cole
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Carlton Cole will be supporting England all the way
this summer
08.06.2014
There is only one country who will receive Carlton Cole's backing at the
summer's FIFA World Cup - and it should come as no surprise that it is
England. The seven-cap Three Lions international believes the World Cup
could be the stage for England's youngsters to announce themselves at elite
level and says their challenge should not be underestimated. He said; "I'll
definitely be watching, relaxing, taking it all in and wishing England all
the best. "I think England have a chance, we have young players trying to
learn their trade at that level, and hopefully the experienced pros will
lead them to success. "Obviously I want England to win, so they're my tip -
I wouldn't tip anyone else to win! "At the end of the day there are a load
of world class players out there, and there are a lot of unknown players who
are going to get seen. It's up to them to produce the goods to make them
shine and stand out - hopefully it's England players. "Reidy was one of them
a few years ago and now he's New Zealand captain so he's done ever so well
to get in that position."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
European success for U15s
WHUFC.com
The Under-15s rounded their season off in style by winning in the Nordhalne
Cup in Denmark
07.06.2014
West Ham United's U15s saw off competition from top clubs across Europe to
claim the Nordhalne Cup title last weekend. The young Hammers remained
undefeated during the two-day tournament in the northern Danish city of
Aalborg to take top honours and complete a rewarding trip. Drawn against
Danish outfits B1903, Hobro IK and FC Federicia and Dutch side De Graafschap
in the opening round, the Hammers won all four games to secure their place
in the four-team final round. Only B1903 gave the Hammers a fright in that
first stage, with the Londoners triumphing 2-1 in that game. By contrast,
Hobro (3-0), Federicia (4-0) and De Graafschap (5-1) were all seen off
comfortably. West Ham were well set up for the final stage, and another pair
of Danish sides, Aab Aalborg and Marienlyst were defeated 2-0 and 6-0
respectively to land the trophy. Youth Development Phase Lead Coach Trevor
Bumstead was understandably delighted. He said: "It was a fantastic end to
the season for us. We took a mixture of U14 and U15 players so the challenge
was for the team to gel in a short space of time and credit to the players
that they were able to do that so smoothly. "We set ourselves the goal of
playing as many matches as we could against the best teams possible at the
tournament whilst continuing to play the West Ham way and we more than
achieved this aim. "We came up against a lot of challenges against teams who
are very rigid defensively but it is really pleasing we stuck to our guns
and played the way we wanted to play, scoring a number of great goals during
the tournament - the pick being an overhead kick from the penalty spot. The
tournament acted as fantastic tool for each player's development and we hope
each of these players learn from this experience and progress up the levels
into the first team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye move for Red Bull Salzburg ace Sadio Mane
Last Updated: 07/06/14 11:43pm
SSN
West Ham are readying a move for Senegal sensation Sadio Mane, Sky Sports
understands. A host of Premier League clubs have been tracking Red Bull
Salzburg attacker Mane for some time, but West Ham are hoping to pull a coup
by luring him to Upton Park. Mane has been a revelation at Salzburg since
joining from Metz in 2012 and his performances for club and country have
established himself as one of the best young talents around. The
22-year-old, who can play out wide or up front, has scored 42 goals in 79
appearances for Salzburg and also contributed 28 assists for the Austrian
champions. Mane has also impressed at international level, scoring four
goals in 15 appearances and he also represented his country at the 2012
Olympics in London. Salzburg are bracing themselves for offers for their
prize asset and it is understood the club have promised Mane they will let
him leave this summer for the right offer.
Mane is thought to be keen to try his luck in England and the pacey and
powerful attacker would fit the bill for West Ham as they look to bolster
their attacking options next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ARE WEST HAM SET TO BID FOR SADIO MANE?
By S J Chandos 8 Jun 2014 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
Following on from West Ham pulling the plug on the M'Baye Niang deal, Sky
Sports are reporting that the club have now shifted their attention to
promising young Senegal forward, Sadio Mane. Mane currently plays for Red
Bull Salzburg, having moved there from Metz in 2012. And his displays for
both club and country, over the last two seasons, have identified Mane as
one of the best prospects around. The pacy 22 year old attacker can play
wide or upfront and is thought to be keen to try his luck in the Premier
League. Mane has scored 42 goals in 79 appearances for Salzburg and provided
28 assists; while for Senegal, he has has scored 4 goals in 15 appearances.
There has been a lot of recent PL interest in Mane and it is thought that
Everton, amongst others, have been monitoring his progress. Yesterday
evening, however, there was speculation that West Ham may be the first to
the punch, in submitting a concrete bid for the player. It is also
distinctly possible that they may attempt to set up a deal to take Mane on
loan next season, with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer of 2015,
although it is unlikely that the Austrian champions will consider anything
other than a permanent deal for one of their major playing assets. If so,
the club will need to back their judgement of Mane's ability by cash rolling
a permanent move to East London.
Elsewhere, there have been a number of recent reports indicating that we are
preparing a loan bid for Chelsea's Oriol Romeu. The midfielder spent last
season on loan to Valencia, where he made a total of 18 appearances in all
competitions. The player will want to play more frequently than that next
season and could jump at the prospect of a loan to another PL club.
Similarly, there has been much speculation that West Ham are seeking to
hijack Spurs bid for Napoli forward, Blerim Dzemali. The Swiss international
is a player that Sam Allardyce is familiar with, having previously managed
him at Bolton Wanderers in the 2007-08 season. If the club's interest is
real, then that prior connection with the West Ham manager could prove a
decisive factor in beating rivals to his signature.
Finally, the emphasis in our transfer dealings is rightly on our incoming
targets. However, we must also start to move out our various fringe players
to both free up further slack in the player salary budget and generate more
money up front. In particular, it must be a priority to move on the likes of
Maiga, Vaz Te and Diarra, three players who are now surely surplus to
requirements. Presumably the best exit route for Diarra and Maiga will be a
return to French football, while Vaz Te will surely be snapped up by some
aspirant Championship side. Indeed, Vaz Te is a real goal scoring asset at
that level and there should be no shortage of interest in him this summer.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
HOW ABOUT TOM INCE?
By Iain Dale 7 Jun 2014 at 18:34
West Ham Till I Die
I see Tom Ince isn't going to Inter Milan after all. Not sure of the reason
but he apparently is now going to stay in the Premier League. Now, don't we
need a wide forward player who knows where the goal is? I like both Downing
and Jarvis on their day, but neither gets enough goals. I certainly wouldn't
suggest we offload them unless a really good offer came in, but it strikes
me they need a little more competition. Wouldn't Tom Ince be just the type
of player to provide it? And yes, I know whose son he is, but let's not
visit the sins of the father on the son. He even knows the Hammers sign too.
It's an omen, I tell you. An omen!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dzemaili? "It's news to us" say Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & HUGH
West Ham have strongly denied that they are attempting to buy Napoli
midfielder Blerim Dzemaili. Spurs have been linked with the Swiss
international but morning reports suggested the Irons are ready to get
involved in the bidding process. The 28 year old worked under Sam Allardyce
when he was manager at Bolton which may have helped the speculation However,
inquiries by ClaretandHugh this afternoon suggest that there is very little
in the rumour. We were told: It seems a case of find a player the manager
knows and let your imagination run wild. This is all news to those inside
the club and unlikely at best!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons transfer market policy becomes clear
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are determined not to blow their wage pot on rapid early summer
moves and misS out on a star loan signings later! The events of last year
when there wasn't sufficient left in the pot to entice a Demba Ba appeared
to be available on loan has focused minds sharply among club negotiators.
And they are determined that caution will be the watchword to ensure they
can realistically bid if the opportunity presents itself. And although co
owner David Sullivan has made it clear the board will be more involved in
signings, ClaretandHugh can reveal that manager Sam Allardyce is anything
but a 'passenger' in the process .
Indeed, we have been reliably informed that it was the manager who put the
block on M'Baye Niang's possible switch to the club from AC Milan on loan.
A source told us exclusively: "Sam was the one who decided against taking
him . He wasn't sure about his attitude. It may have been an error. We'll
see.
"One thing's for sure. The club won't be blowing their funds early. They
won't be caught in last season's situation when Demba Ba looked to have come
on the market and they hadn't the moneyleft in their wage kitty to make a
realistic bid. "Lessons have been learned from last season's problems and
there have been too many bad buys for the club to rush into things. "We
should be a much better team than we are on the money that's been made
available and moving forward everybody is determined to do better. "They
know these last couple of years haven't been the best so they will be
rushing nothing."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Irons badge.to change or not to change
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The debate has begun on whether the current badge should be altered in the
run up to our move to the Olympic Stadium.moore I will concentrate on the
two main proposals; adding the word London and the possible removal of the
castle. Personally I think the current badge could do with an update, having
last been changed in 1997 to soften the castle features. Let's tackle the
castle first. After 2017 there will be no castle as the Boleyn ground will
be transformed into housing and shops. There is strong historical evidence
that the Boleyn castle
a) Wasn't a castle anyway
and b) had no connection to Anne Boleyn.
Green Street House was built in 1544, eight years after her the execution.
A couple of turrets were added two years later to enhance the beauty of the
ground and that is why it was called a castle by locals. It was demolished
in 1955. The tacky yellow castles were emerged in 2001 during the
rebuilding of West stand and have made us a laughing stock for visiting
supporters - they will not be missed when demolished in 2017.
Traditionalists won't want change but the removal of the castle doesn't
bother me in the slightest but I would not support it being replaced by the
Olympic Stadium. The more contentious issue in my opinion is the use of the
word London on the badge. Traditionalists will point out West Ham was
originally part of Essex and not at the heart of London but we have to
understand that the Premier League is now a global brand. I am sure many
overseas supporters do not automatically know West Ham is a London club and
I do see the attraction of associating the Hammers to a super brand like
London. Many will say it should say East of London, Pride of London, Made in
London but I don't see an issue with a small discreet London somewhere on
the badge. I know football supporters do not like talking about marketing
and brands but the most successful Premier league teams such as Manchester
United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal do it so well. We need to as
well if we are to complete on the global stage. If we want better football
and one day achieve a European dream we need to generate more money so in
the end we need to be a global player with a global brand. For those reasons
I back a change of the badge but I agree with the club that the majority of
fans should decide.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFc.com
West Ham United lifted the Football League War Cup at Wembley on this day in
1940
08.06.2014
Classic match
West Ham United 1-0 Blackburn Rovers
Football League War Cup final
Saturday 8 June 1940, Wembley Stadium, London
West Ham United won their first Wembley final on this day in 1940, edging
out Blackburn Rovers 1-0 to lift the inaugural Football League War Cup. Sam
Small was the hero of the day, following up after Alec George Foreman's shot
had been parried by Blackburn goalkeeper James Barron to score the only goal
of the game on 35 minutes. A crowd of 42,300 braved the war-time bombing of
London to attend the final at Wembley Stadium, but they were not rewarded
with a classic match. West Ham began the game as favourites and they held
the upper hand for much of what was described by The Times as a 'grim' game.
When West Ham did get things right, they troubled Rovers, with Foreman, Len
Goulden, Stanley Foxall and Archie Macaulay all heavily involved. The best
move of the match culminated in Small's all-important goal. Foxall and
Goulden combined to find Foreman, whose shot looked certain to find the net
until Barron flung out a hand to make the save. However, the Blackburn
stopper was unable to recover quickly enough to prevent winger Small
finishing into the net. Both teams came close in the second half, but West
Ham goalkeeper Herman Conway and his defenders were largely untroubled by
their opponents and the Londoners held on to win.
The trophy was presented to the winning team by A.V.Alexander, First Lord of
the Admiralty, while the crowd was made up in part by servicemen. Following
the final, a number of players from both sides immediately returned to their
service units in the various Armed Forces.
War Cup final
Anniversary
England 2-0 Soviet Union
UEFA European Championship third-place play-off
8 June 1968, Stadio Olimpico, Rome
While the 1966 and 1970 FIFA World Cup finals will live long in the memory
of every West Ham United and England supporter, the 1968 UEFA European
Championship finals tournament remains relatively unknown. England had
qualified for the four-team tournament by topping a qualifying group that
included Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland before overcoming Spain 3-1 on
aggregate in a two-legged tie. EURO 1968 was held in Italy, with England
joining the host nation, Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. As world champions,
England were expected to do well, only to lose 1-0 to Yugoslavia in Florence
in the semi-finals, with Dragan Džajić scoring an 87th-minute winner. Italy
and the Soviets drew 0-0 after extra-time, with the hosts going through to
the final on a coin toss - no penalty shootouts in those days! The
third-place play-off was held in Rome on this day in 1968 and England boss
Alf Ramsey named three West Ham players in his starting XI - captain Bobby
Moore, Martin Peters and Geoff Hurst. Fellow 1966 FIFA World Cup winner
Bobby Charlton opened the scoring on 39 minutes before Hurst netted his
tenth goal for England 18 minutes after half-time to ensure England would
finish in third place. Moore and Hurst were later named in the Team of the
Tournament.
Complete record
1940 West Ham United 1-0 Blackburn Rovers (Football League War Cup final)
Played 1, Won 1, Drawn 0, Lost 0, Scored 1, Conceded 0
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
World Cup Countdown - Carlton Cole
WHUFC.com
West Ham United striker Carlton Cole will be supporting England all the way
this summer
08.06.2014
There is only one country who will receive Carlton Cole's backing at the
summer's FIFA World Cup - and it should come as no surprise that it is
England. The seven-cap Three Lions international believes the World Cup
could be the stage for England's youngsters to announce themselves at elite
level and says their challenge should not be underestimated. He said; "I'll
definitely be watching, relaxing, taking it all in and wishing England all
the best. "I think England have a chance, we have young players trying to
learn their trade at that level, and hopefully the experienced pros will
lead them to success. "Obviously I want England to win, so they're my tip -
I wouldn't tip anyone else to win! "At the end of the day there are a load
of world class players out there, and there are a lot of unknown players who
are going to get seen. It's up to them to produce the goods to make them
shine and stand out - hopefully it's England players. "Reidy was one of them
a few years ago and now he's New Zealand captain so he's done ever so well
to get in that position."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
European success for U15s
WHUFC.com
The Under-15s rounded their season off in style by winning in the Nordhalne
Cup in Denmark
07.06.2014
West Ham United's U15s saw off competition from top clubs across Europe to
claim the Nordhalne Cup title last weekend. The young Hammers remained
undefeated during the two-day tournament in the northern Danish city of
Aalborg to take top honours and complete a rewarding trip. Drawn against
Danish outfits B1903, Hobro IK and FC Federicia and Dutch side De Graafschap
in the opening round, the Hammers won all four games to secure their place
in the four-team final round. Only B1903 gave the Hammers a fright in that
first stage, with the Londoners triumphing 2-1 in that game. By contrast,
Hobro (3-0), Federicia (4-0) and De Graafschap (5-1) were all seen off
comfortably. West Ham were well set up for the final stage, and another pair
of Danish sides, Aab Aalborg and Marienlyst were defeated 2-0 and 6-0
respectively to land the trophy. Youth Development Phase Lead Coach Trevor
Bumstead was understandably delighted. He said: "It was a fantastic end to
the season for us. We took a mixture of U14 and U15 players so the challenge
was for the team to gel in a short space of time and credit to the players
that they were able to do that so smoothly. "We set ourselves the goal of
playing as many matches as we could against the best teams possible at the
tournament whilst continuing to play the West Ham way and we more than
achieved this aim. "We came up against a lot of challenges against teams who
are very rigid defensively but it is really pleasing we stuck to our guns
and played the way we wanted to play, scoring a number of great goals during
the tournament - the pick being an overhead kick from the penalty spot. The
tournament acted as fantastic tool for each player's development and we hope
each of these players learn from this experience and progress up the levels
into the first team."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham eye move for Red Bull Salzburg ace Sadio Mane
Last Updated: 07/06/14 11:43pm
SSN
West Ham are readying a move for Senegal sensation Sadio Mane, Sky Sports
understands. A host of Premier League clubs have been tracking Red Bull
Salzburg attacker Mane for some time, but West Ham are hoping to pull a coup
by luring him to Upton Park. Mane has been a revelation at Salzburg since
joining from Metz in 2012 and his performances for club and country have
established himself as one of the best young talents around. The
22-year-old, who can play out wide or up front, has scored 42 goals in 79
appearances for Salzburg and also contributed 28 assists for the Austrian
champions. Mane has also impressed at international level, scoring four
goals in 15 appearances and he also represented his country at the 2012
Olympics in London. Salzburg are bracing themselves for offers for their
prize asset and it is understood the club have promised Mane they will let
him leave this summer for the right offer.
Mane is thought to be keen to try his luck in England and the pacey and
powerful attacker would fit the bill for West Ham as they look to bolster
their attacking options next season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ARE WEST HAM SET TO BID FOR SADIO MANE?
By S J Chandos 8 Jun 2014 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
Following on from West Ham pulling the plug on the M'Baye Niang deal, Sky
Sports are reporting that the club have now shifted their attention to
promising young Senegal forward, Sadio Mane. Mane currently plays for Red
Bull Salzburg, having moved there from Metz in 2012. And his displays for
both club and country, over the last two seasons, have identified Mane as
one of the best prospects around. The pacy 22 year old attacker can play
wide or upfront and is thought to be keen to try his luck in the Premier
League. Mane has scored 42 goals in 79 appearances for Salzburg and provided
28 assists; while for Senegal, he has has scored 4 goals in 15 appearances.
There has been a lot of recent PL interest in Mane and it is thought that
Everton, amongst others, have been monitoring his progress. Yesterday
evening, however, there was speculation that West Ham may be the first to
the punch, in submitting a concrete bid for the player. It is also
distinctly possible that they may attempt to set up a deal to take Mane on
loan next season, with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer of 2015,
although it is unlikely that the Austrian champions will consider anything
other than a permanent deal for one of their major playing assets. If so,
the club will need to back their judgement of Mane's ability by cash rolling
a permanent move to East London.
Elsewhere, there have been a number of recent reports indicating that we are
preparing a loan bid for Chelsea's Oriol Romeu. The midfielder spent last
season on loan to Valencia, where he made a total of 18 appearances in all
competitions. The player will want to play more frequently than that next
season and could jump at the prospect of a loan to another PL club.
Similarly, there has been much speculation that West Ham are seeking to
hijack Spurs bid for Napoli forward, Blerim Dzemali. The Swiss international
is a player that Sam Allardyce is familiar with, having previously managed
him at Bolton Wanderers in the 2007-08 season. If the club's interest is
real, then that prior connection with the West Ham manager could prove a
decisive factor in beating rivals to his signature.
Finally, the emphasis in our transfer dealings is rightly on our incoming
targets. However, we must also start to move out our various fringe players
to both free up further slack in the player salary budget and generate more
money up front. In particular, it must be a priority to move on the likes of
Maiga, Vaz Te and Diarra, three players who are now surely surplus to
requirements. Presumably the best exit route for Diarra and Maiga will be a
return to French football, while Vaz Te will surely be snapped up by some
aspirant Championship side. Indeed, Vaz Te is a real goal scoring asset at
that level and there should be no shortage of interest in him this summer.
SJ. Chandos.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
HOW ABOUT TOM INCE?
By Iain Dale 7 Jun 2014 at 18:34
West Ham Till I Die
I see Tom Ince isn't going to Inter Milan after all. Not sure of the reason
but he apparently is now going to stay in the Premier League. Now, don't we
need a wide forward player who knows where the goal is? I like both Downing
and Jarvis on their day, but neither gets enough goals. I certainly wouldn't
suggest we offload them unless a really good offer came in, but it strikes
me they need a little more competition. Wouldn't Tom Ince be just the type
of player to provide it? And yes, I know whose son he is, but let's not
visit the sins of the father on the son. He even knows the Hammers sign too.
It's an omen, I tell you. An omen!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dzemaili? "It's news to us" say Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & HUGH
West Ham have strongly denied that they are attempting to buy Napoli
midfielder Blerim Dzemaili. Spurs have been linked with the Swiss
international but morning reports suggested the Irons are ready to get
involved in the bidding process. The 28 year old worked under Sam Allardyce
when he was manager at Bolton which may have helped the speculation However,
inquiries by ClaretandHugh this afternoon suggest that there is very little
in the rumour. We were told: It seems a case of find a player the manager
knows and let your imagination run wild. This is all news to those inside
the club and unlikely at best!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons transfer market policy becomes clear
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are determined not to blow their wage pot on rapid early summer
moves and misS out on a star loan signings later! The events of last year
when there wasn't sufficient left in the pot to entice a Demba Ba appeared
to be available on loan has focused minds sharply among club negotiators.
And they are determined that caution will be the watchword to ensure they
can realistically bid if the opportunity presents itself. And although co
owner David Sullivan has made it clear the board will be more involved in
signings, ClaretandHugh can reveal that manager Sam Allardyce is anything
but a 'passenger' in the process .
Indeed, we have been reliably informed that it was the manager who put the
block on M'Baye Niang's possible switch to the club from AC Milan on loan.
A source told us exclusively: "Sam was the one who decided against taking
him . He wasn't sure about his attitude. It may have been an error. We'll
see.
"One thing's for sure. The club won't be blowing their funds early. They
won't be caught in last season's situation when Demba Ba looked to have come
on the market and they hadn't the moneyleft in their wage kitty to make a
realistic bid. "Lessons have been learned from last season's problems and
there have been too many bad buys for the club to rush into things. "We
should be a much better team than we are on the money that's been made
available and moving forward everybody is determined to do better. "They
know these last couple of years haven't been the best so they will be
rushing nothing."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The Irons badge.to change or not to change
Posted by Sean Whetstone on June 7, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The debate has begun on whether the current badge should be altered in the
run up to our move to the Olympic Stadium.moore I will concentrate on the
two main proposals; adding the word London and the possible removal of the
castle. Personally I think the current badge could do with an update, having
last been changed in 1997 to soften the castle features. Let's tackle the
castle first. After 2017 there will be no castle as the Boleyn ground will
be transformed into housing and shops. There is strong historical evidence
that the Boleyn castle
a) Wasn't a castle anyway
and b) had no connection to Anne Boleyn.
Green Street House was built in 1544, eight years after her the execution.
A couple of turrets were added two years later to enhance the beauty of the
ground and that is why it was called a castle by locals. It was demolished
in 1955. The tacky yellow castles were emerged in 2001 during the
rebuilding of West stand and have made us a laughing stock for visiting
supporters - they will not be missed when demolished in 2017.
Traditionalists won't want change but the removal of the castle doesn't
bother me in the slightest but I would not support it being replaced by the
Olympic Stadium. The more contentious issue in my opinion is the use of the
word London on the badge. Traditionalists will point out West Ham was
originally part of Essex and not at the heart of London but we have to
understand that the Premier League is now a global brand. I am sure many
overseas supporters do not automatically know West Ham is a London club and
I do see the attraction of associating the Hammers to a super brand like
London. Many will say it should say East of London, Pride of London, Made in
London but I don't see an issue with a small discreet London somewhere on
the badge. I know football supporters do not like talking about marketing
and brands but the most successful Premier league teams such as Manchester
United, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal do it so well. We need to as
well if we are to complete on the global stage. If we want better football
and one day achieve a European dream we need to generate more money so in
the end we need to be a global player with a global brand. For those reasons
I back a change of the badge but I agree with the club that the majority of
fans should decide.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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