Phoenix give Big Sam Yellow Fever
WHUFc.com
Sam Allardyce reflects on West Ham United's Football United Tour 2-1 defeat
by Wellington Phoenix
23.07.2014
Sam Allardyce praised Wellington Phoenix after the A-League side edged out
West Ham United 2-1 in Auckland. The Hammers suffered defeat in the opening
game of their two-match Football United Tour of New Zealand, falling two
goals behind at half-time before substitute Mauro Zarate pulled one back
late on.
Andrew Durante lost his marker to nod the Phoenix = whose loyal supporters
are known as the 'Yellow Fever' - in front before former Sunderland
midfielder Alex Gorrin fired in a superb second from outside the penalty
area. West Ham should have scored both before and after those goals, but
neither Carlton Cole nor Cheikhou Kouyate could find a way past an inspired
Glen Moss - Winston Reid's New Zealand international team-mate - in the
Phoenix goal. The Hammers improved after the break and halved their deficit
through Zarate's superb touch and accurate finish before the impressive
Stewart Downing was denied a late equaliser by replacement stopper Lewis
Italiano. There was to be no comeback, though, and Big Sam felt his side had
neither competed well enough, nor showed the requisite technical skills
required to defeat their opponents. At the same time, he conceded that the
Phoenix had taken full advantage of his own players' intense pre-season
schedule by pressing and competing relentlessly throughout a lively 90
minutes at Eden Park. "We're 20 days into our pre-season and I think that we
are disappointed with the first half performance, when we were caught cold
by the Phoenix," admitted Big Sam. "They showed a great attitude and played
at a tempo that we had a little struggle keeping tabs with and that's where
we lost the two goals. "We are finding our feet and finding our fitness with
each game but we certainly didn't find our standard, whereas the Phoenix hit
their standard and they competed as we expected them to. "They shut us down
high up the pitch and I thought they did that exceptionally well. They
knocked us out of our stride but, saying that, we should have scored the
first goal when Carlton Cole took a cutback from Matt Jarvis. "We then
should have scored just before half-time when it fell to Cheikh and that was
the difference between the two teams - they took their two chances and we
didn't. They scored through a header at the near post and the strike in the
bottom corner for the second was the way I was expecting us to be finishing.
"We tried to come back in the second half and got a little bit better. I had
to change the team because of the fatigue that kicked into the players
because we've been working extremely hard. "After our journey we've been
training every day, morning and afternoon, because we've got to get our
fitness levels up and fatigue the players. "It is a disappointing result,
but we're 20 days into pre-season and what matters is getting them ready for
16 August. I've won every pre-season game in the past and lost the first
three or four games in the league, and not won a pre-season game and then
not lost the first eight or ten games of the season. "It doesn't make a lot
of difference to me in terms of results. What is important to me is our
level of performance, what we are as a team, and our technique levels. That
did worry me, because our technique levels were way down on our standard so
I was disappointed about that. "I can understand that we were fatigued with
the way we've been working, but not the lack of technique on occasions. "The
players have to realise we didn't compete well enough, first and foremost.
Any game of football you play, anywhere in the world, you've got to earn the
right to play. "We're lovely in possession and in terms of trying to keep
the ball, but we weren't penetrative enough. When we lost it, the players
hardly competed and that was our biggest problem."
While the final result was one neither Big Sam, his players nor the
thousands of West Ham fans in the crowd would have been happy with, there
was encouragement to take from Zarate's cameo. The Argentine was lively,
neat and tidy in possession and showed quick feet and an eye for goal to net
with 20 minutes remaining. Downing, too, was in good form and only denied a
fine equaliser by an even better save from Italiano, who plunged to his
right to push the ball around the post. "It was a lovely goal," agreed Big
Sam. "Mauro showed some lovely touches around the final third and he's
certainly a type of player we haven't had at the Club. "In and around the
box, Mauro technically looks like he can open up defensive units and he did
do that against the Phoenix. "They were happy to put eight and nine behind
the ball once they went 2-0 up and I don't blame them for that because they
wanted to win the game, but Mauro showed a nice bit of technique, as did
Stewart Downing when he came on."
After using 20 players against the Phoenix, Big Sam is again expected to
utilise his squad when the Hammers take on Sydney FC in Wellington on
Saturday.
Cheikhou Kouyate suffered a knock to his leg in a heavy first-half
challenge, while James Tomkins was taken off late on, and the manager
admitted both may miss the Westpac Stadium fixture. "It's about giving the
squad of players as much match-fitness as I can give them. We've got to
balance out the amount of time we give them - we started out giving them 45
minutes in the first game and then 55 or so and tonight we gave them 60
minutes. "We'll reverse that on Saturday so those who played 30 will get 60
and some will get 90 - it depends on whether we have got any knocks or
strains. "It was a physical game and, by experience, some of the knocks they
got will mean they cannot play in Saturday's game, so some will have to play
90 minutes. "We'll have to wait until Friday to see where we are."
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Dev Squad triumph at Sutton
WHUFc.com
The Development Squad's productive pre-season continued with a 1-0 win at
Sutton on Wednesday
23.07.2014
Sutton United 0-1 Development Squad
Pre-Season Match
The Development Squad made it two wins on the spin in pre-season after
seeing off Skrill South side Sutton United at Gander Green Lane on Wednesday
night.
West Ham's youngsters edged a tightly-contested game, with a trialist
notching the only goal in a lively start to the second period. Djair
Parfitt-Williams could have given the scoreline a more comfortable look 15
minutes from time, but Tom Lovelock saved his penalty to ensure the visitors
would have to work to the end for their victory. That they did, and the
younger players will now head off to the Ruhr Cup in Germany full of
confidence. Fresh from winning the Absolute Sports Travel Cup at Cambridge
at the weekend, Nick Haycock's Development Squad returned to taking on
senior sides when they travelled to Sutton. West Ham were able to name
Elliot Lee, who notched twice in the victory over Espanyol, Seb Lletget,
KIeran Sadlier and Josh Cullen in their line-up, but the team did have a
more youthful feel about it than at the weekend, with the likes of Jordan
Brown and Josh Pask featuring from the start. After a quiet opening, it was
Sutton who had the first chance of the opening period, when, with 13 minutes
on the clock Jessy Reindorf took up a good position to meet Claudiu Hoban's
right wing cross, but could only head over the top. Four minutes later the
hosts used the same flank to get pull back to Dylan Bowella, who shot wide
of the near post.
At the other end, Lee created a chance for himself when he shifted the ball
inside his man in the left channel and clipped an effort just past the far
post.
WIth 29 minutes on the clock, Sadlier found space down the left and crossed
to the far post where Brown collected, moved back onto his left foot and
brought a good low save from home keeper Tom Lovelock. In truth though,
chances were few and far between before the break, although the opening to
the second half proved to be far more open. First Sadlier burst through and
brought a fine save from Lovelock with a meatily-struck shot, before play
swung to the other end and Bowella miskicked when in front of goal. He was
made to pay almost immediately as, with 50 minutes played, Brown crossed low
from the right wing and the trialist was there to finish neatly. Both sides
made a raft of changes as the second period went on and two of the Hammers
subs, Jahmal Hector-Ingram and Parfitt-Williams, combined to good effect on
73 minutes when the former cut back for the latter, who fired inches over.
Two minutes later the pair were involved again, Hector-Ingram running at,
and drawing a foul from, Max Kontic inside the area. Referee Mike Coen
pointed straight to the spot, but Parfitt-Williams could not take advantage
as Lovelock dived to the left to parry away to safety. However, the
youngster's miss would not cost the Dev Squad victory as they maintained
their unbeaten start to pre-season.
Development Squad: St Louis-Hamilton; Westley (Amoo 58), Burke (Harney 46),
Pask (Onariase 58), Knoyle (Akinola 58); Cullen (M.Carter 58), Lletget
(Diangana 58); Brown (Rodriguez 65), Trialist (Hector-Ingram 72), Sadlier
(Parfitt-Williams 58); Lee (Maiga 58)
Goal: Trialist 50
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Reid seeking improvement
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid is confident the Hammers will be ready and raring to go come 16
August
23.07.2014
Winston Reid believes West Ham United will be firing on all cylinders when
the Barclays Premier League season gets underway on 16 August. Reid
captained the Hammers for their third pre-season game on Wednesday night - a
2-1 defeat by Wellington Phoenix in his home city of Auckland, New Zealand.
Although he admitted to being disappointed by the result, he felt that the
minor defensive issues would be easy to iron out before Tottenham Hotspur
visit the Boleyn Ground for the season opener in three and a half weeks'
time. "Phoenix played a good game and we didn't hit our usual standards, but
it's pre-season and we're working hard out there to try to improve
ourselves.," he said. "We made some mistakes but come the start of the
season we won't be making those mistakes any more. "The Phoenix played well.
They sat back and we created some chances but didn't take them, but they
scored the two chances they created."
Reid had to use his role as skipper to have a quiet word with referee Peter
O'Leary after some fierce first-half tackles left him and several other boys
in Claret and Blue on the floor. Thankfully, all returned to their feet, but
his manager stressed afterwards that he thought some of the challenges had
been a little over enthusiastic. "Phoenix were excited and they came in and
were hard to us. There were a couple of tackles in there that crossed the
line but it calmed down a bit in the second half."
Reid passed up a good chance to register when he glanced a header wide five
minutes from the end, although he was far from the only Hammers who failed
to convert when well placed. Much of that was down to Reid's fellow
countryman Glen Moss between the sticks, who pulled out some vital stops to
keep Big Sam's side at bay. "He's a good goalkeeper and I would like him to
have put a couple in the back for the net! To be fair I should have scored
as well but that's football."
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Cresswell hails Hammers support
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell said West Ham United's players have enjoyed meeting fans on
their tour of New Zealand
24.07.2014
The result might not have gone their way, but Aaron Cresswell said West Ham
United were honoured to be part of their Football United Tour fixture with
Wellington Phoenix. Cresswell and company were edged out 2-1 by the A-League
side in the opening match of their two-game tour of New Zealand on Wednesday
evening. The game attracted a 19,183-strong crowd from all over New Zealand,
Australia and beyond to Auckland's legendary Eden Park - home of the All
Blacks. A colourful atmosphere featured a traditional Maori welcome,
including a performance of the Haka, before the two teams took to the pitch
amid scenes of great noise and colour. Despite dominating proceedings for
long periods, the touring Hammers fell two goals down by half-time before
Mauro Zarate sparked a frenetic finish with a 70th-minute strike. As it was,
the Phoenix - New Zealand's only professional club - held out to celebrate a
famous victory, but the left-back said the Hammers would not allow
themselves to get too down about their unexpected defeat. "We have come over
here and we expected a physical and competitive test," admitted Cresswell.
"They came out and at us from the first whistle and it was a tough test, but
the most important thing for us was to get our fitness up. "They came
straight out of the blocks and were not of a bad standard at all. We're on
the other side of the world and didn't know quite what to expect as we
hadn't seen much of the league, but I thought they were a good team."
The No3 said the squad had thoroughly enjoyed the very warm welcome they
have received since touching down in New Zealand on Saturday. Three Open
Training sessions held earlier this week attracted thousands of fans, many
of whom met their heroes for photographs and autographs, while parts of
central Auckland were turned Claret and Blue ahead of Wednesday's match.
Coming after a week-long training camp in France and pre-season matches with
Stevenage and his old club Ipswich, the 24-year-old said he and his fellow
new boys had quickly settled into life at the Club. "It was hard getting
around the time difference and stuff, but once we got around it we had three
good sessions training-wise and obviously the game on Wednesday night, so
it's been a hectic few days but very enjoyable. "We went to France for a
week, then back to England for a few days to play two games before flying
out to New Zealand, so I've been with the boys constantly and it's been good
for the new lads to get to know the group."
As well as helping to strengthen team spirit, Cresswell said pre-season was
going well for him in terms of getting him match-fit ahead of the new
Barclays Premier League season. With Saturday's Football United Tour fixture
with Sydney FC in Wellington, two games at the Schalke 04 Cup and the visit
of UC Sampdoria still to come, the defender believes he and his colleagues
will be ready for action come the big kick-off on 16 August. "Pre-season is
always about getting yourselves right and working on your fitness. It's
always nice to get into form, but the main thing is obviously fitness.
"There are still three or four games left until the start of the season, so
we hope it will come as we get as fit as we can."
Cresswell has made just three appearances in a West Ham shirt since his
summer arrival from Ipswich Town, but he is already showing signs of forging
an encouraging partnership with Matt Jarvis down the left-hand side. "Jarvo
is a great player and I find it easy to link up with him. We'll be looking
to carry that through throughout the pre-season and do good things. "I'll
just take each game as it comes and try to do my best and influence whoever
is playing in front of me."
The productive partnership may be rekindled at Westpac Stadium on Saturday,
where Cresswell is hoping West Ham can end their stay in New Zealand with a
morale-boosting victory. "It would be nice to give the travelling fans who
are out here something to celebrate and hopefully get the win."
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West Ham striker to sit out rest of pre-season tour
BBC.co.uk
West Ham striker Andy Carroll will sit out the club's pre-season tour of New
Zealand after suffering a sore ankle. Carroll missed Wednesday's 2-1 defeat
by Wellington Phoenix and will not be considered for the match against
Sydney FC in Wellington on Saturday. A statement on the club's website said
that Carroll would "receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the
start of the season". The problem is unrelated to the heel injury Carroll
had last season. The 25-year-old missed the majority of 2013-14, managing
just 15 league appearances and also failed to force his way into England's
World Cup squad. New signing Mauro Zarate scored his first goal for the club
as they slipped to defeat in their opening tour fixture.
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Andy Carroll returns from pre-season tour
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 24th July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's Andy Carroll has returned to England to receive treatment on an
injured ankle. On Wednesday it was revealed here on KUMB.com that the
striker could miss the start of the season - and several weeks thereafter -
having damaged his ankle whilst training with the rest of the first team
squad in New Zealand at the weekend. And co-owner David Sullivan's son Jack
followed up our story by confirming via Twitter last night that Carroll had
already returned to the UK ahead of the travelling party.
Whilst the extent of Carroll's latest injury remains educated guesswork - at
best - club staff are hopeful that the injury-cursed forward may yet recover
in time to feature in the opening game of the 2014/15 campaign at home to
Tottenham. However a sizeable number of supporters are beginning to run out
of patience with the club's record signing, who has been beset by a series
of injury problems since first joining West Ham two years ago.
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Andy Carroll facing new injury crisis
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Andy Carroll could be out of action for several weeks, according to reports
emerging this afternoon. A trusted source posting on the KUMB Forum this
afternoon claims that Carroll's ankle injury is far worse than previously
estimated, with the striker likely to be unavailable for between "two to
four months". Carroll is currently in New Zealand with the first team squad
but West Ham have already revealed that he will not be taking any part in
either of the two tour matches - the first of which West Ham lost to
Wellington Phoenix this morning. The same source had previously suggested
that Carroll was sent home from the pre-season trip to France earlier this
month after being told that his fitness levels were unacceptably low. Only
24 hours ago West Ham revealed that Carroll would miss both games of the
current Football United tour in New Zealand, stating that the striker had
been relieved of first team duties as "a precautionary measure after
developing a sore left ankle during training". The statement added: "It
should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the
previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season."
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Brown denies Bentley link
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Southend United manager Phil Brown has denied that he is considering selling
goalkeeper Daniel Bentley to West Ham. Brown, a long-term friend of
Allardyce's told the Echo that he had spoken to Big Sam after KUMB revealed
how West Ham had enquired about Bentley, the Blues' 21-year-old goalkeeper.
"I heard the rumour and wanted to check it out so I gave Sam a call in New
Zealand," said Brown. "You have to do these things to cover yourself,
especially if you're going to lose your first choice goalkeeper. "However,
Sam never made any reference to wanting to bring Daniel in." An odd choice
of words from Brown, who also revealed that he has both Paul Smith and Ted
Smith in reserve should Bentley be unavailable at any point. "Paul Smith is
fitter than he's been in a long time and he's had a good pre-season as
well,which is something he hasn't had for a couple of years now," he said.
"He might even challenge Dan for the number one slot and we have a great
number three in Ted Smith, so the goalkeeping position is looking very
strong indeed."
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Allardyce hurt by Phoenix defeat
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce admitted to being disappointed by this morning's 2-1 defeat
against Wellington Phoenix - but insisted that fitness remained top of the
agenda.
The Hammers went down by the odd goal in three at Eden Park this morning
after two dreadful defensive lapses helped the home side take a two-goal
lead, before new signing Mauro Zarate finally gave the travelling fans
something to cheer about with a lovely curling effort. And whilst he
admitted to being unhappy at losing the game, Allardyce maintained that
continuing their efforts to regain full match fitness in time for the start
of the 2014/15 Premier League campaign was the ultimate goal for his squad.
"We're disappointed with the first half performance when we were caught cold
by the Phoenix," he told whufc.com. "They showed a great attitude and played
at a tempo that we struggled to keep tabs with - and that's where we lost
the two goals. "We are finding our fitness with each game but we certainly
didn't find our standard, whereas the Phoenix hit their standard and they
competed as we expected them to. They shut us down high up the pitch
exceptionally well. "We're 20 days into pre-season and what matters is
getting the players ready for 16 August. I've won every pre-season game in
the past and lost the first three or four games in the league, and not won a
pre-season game and then not lost the first eight or ten games of the
season!"
That's perhaps just as well, given that his side have failed to record a win
against Stevenage, Ipswich or Phoenix in pre-season so far. However
Allardyce did admit to being rather more concerned about a lack of quality
exhibited by his players. "It's a disappointing result, but it doesn't make
a lot of difference," he surmised. "What is important is our level of
performance, what we are as a team, and our technique levels. That did worry
me because our technique levels were way down on our standard, so I was
disappointed about that. I can understand that we were fatigued with the way
we've been working, but not the lack of technique on occasions. The players
have to realise we didn't compete well enough, first and foremost. Any game
of football you play, anywhere in the world, you've got to earn the right to
play."
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Wellington Phoenix 2-1 West Ham Utd
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 23rd July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United remain without a win in pre-season after suffering a
surprise defeat in the first leg of the Football United tour. Having
previously drawn at Stevenage and Ipswich, the Hammers were expected to
comfortably beat Wellington Phoenix at Eden Park this morning. However Sam
Allardyce's jet-lagged side were left somewhat embarrassed - or 'stunned',
according to stuff.co.nz - after falling to a 2-1 defeat.
A lively encounter, the game began with Phoenix full back Louie Fenton
somehow escaping a red card for a dreadful, ankle-high lunge at new signing
Cheikhou Kouyate. Carlton Cole narrowly failed to convert a low Matt Jarvis
cross before West Ham found themselves behind.
A Phoenix free kick was delivered towards the near post and as West Ham's
defence stood motionless, Andrew Durante emerged from behind his marker to
steer his header beyond goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen. Pre-season or not, it
was a dreadful goal to concede.
And as poor as the opening goal was, the second - conceded on 25 minutes -
was little better. James Collins, who has consistently made grave errors
throughout his career conceded possession 30 yards from goal. Alex Rodriguez
picked up the loose ball before firing it into the corner of Jasskelainen's
net from the edge of the box as West Ham's other defenders retreated.
However the 'English Premier League giants' - courtesy of New Zealand TV -
did at least give the travelling fans - who sang a rousing chorus of "you're
nothing special, we lose every week" - something to cheer about when Mauro
Zaratae scored his first goal in a West Ham shirt.
With 20 minutes to play, the Argentinian managed to beat the otherwise
excellent Phoenix 'keeper Glen Moss. Receiving the ball from Matt Jarvis,
Zarate curled a lovely effort inside the post to give West Ham a fighting
chance.
However the Hammers were left disappointed - and no doubt a little
embarrassed too - after failing to score for a second time - much to the
delight of the home crowd who had seen their team gain a most unexpected
victory.
Even though West Ham's involvement in the Football United tournament is
primarily about fitness, the performance will have disappointed the many
hundreds of New Zealand-based and travelling Hammers fans, some of whom have
spent several thousands of pounds to make the trip.
The game was preceded with a minute's silence for John Adler and Liam
Sweeney, the Newcastle United fans who were killed in the terrorist attack
on a Malaysian Airlines flight last week whilst on their way to support
their team in the Football United tour.
West Ham Utd: Jaaskelainen, Demel, Reid (c), Collins, Cresswell, Kouyate,
Noble, Nolan, Diame, Jarvis, Cole.
Subs: Adrian, Howes, Tomkins, Downing, Fanimo, O'Brien, Potts, Poyet, Vaz
Te, Whitehead, Zarate.
Wellington Phoenix: Moss, Muscat, Gorrin, Burns, Brockie, Boyd, Riera,
Fenron, Sigmund, Durante (c), Blake.
Subs: Italiano, Caira, Boxall, Brindell-Smith, Cunningham, Rufer, Hicks,
Lia, Krishna, Ridenton, Doyle.
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West Ham lose 2-1 to Wellington Phoenix in Auckland, New Zealand
Last Updated: 23/07/14 11:17am
SSn
Mauro Zarate scored his first West Ham goal in a 2-1 friendly defeat to
Wellington Phoenix at Eden Park on Wednesday. The Hammers began their
Football United Tour with a loss in Auckland, against a Phoenix team that
finished ninth in the 10-team A-League last season. New signings Aaron
Cresswell and Cheikhou Kouyate were both named in the starting line-up by
Sam Allardyce, with Winston Reid captaining the team in the city of his
birth. Carlton Cole forced an early save out of Phoenix goalkeeper Glen Moss
but in the 11th minute, the New Zealand club's skipper Andrew Durante headed
an Alex Gorrin free-kick past Jussi Jaaskelainen to give them the lead. And
on 27 minutes, the Phoenix doubled their advantage as Spanish midfielder
Gorrin raced through after winning a block tackle with James Collins and
finished coolly into the far corner. Zarate replaced Kouyate on the hour
mark and pulled a goal back on 71 minutes, curling a shot inside the post
after being set up by Matt Jarvis. Reid went close with a header in the
final stages before Phoenix substitute goalkeeper Lewis Italiano tipped
Stewart Downing's goalbound effort round the post in stoppage time. West Ham
now move on to Wellington to face Sydney FC at the Westpac Stadium on
Saturday.
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ZARATE'S GOAL WAS CLASS, BUT APART FROM THAT...
By Iain Dale 23 Jul 2014 at 10:46
West Ham Till I Die
And to think I got up early on my holiday to watch that load of kack. OK,
it's only a pre-season friendly, yadda, yadda, yadda, but there was
virtually nothing positive to take out of that game apart from the quality
of Mauro Zarate's goal. We looked sluggish, uncommitted and too fond of
playing the long ball. If there has been a shift in our style of play I
can't say I noticed. Did anyone else?
There was a bit of an improvement in the second half when some of the fringe
players entered the fray, but we were made to look ordinary by a team which
would struggle in our League Two. And they are even further behind
pre-season than we are. Jussi looked as if he'd already retired and our
whole defence looked shaky. Kevin Nolan hardly touched the ball and although
Matt Jarvis raced past their right back with ease, he never actually
delivered a dangerous ball.
Maybe these new shirts are a jinx. I positively hate them. They don't even
look like a football shirt. No wonder we lost 2-1!
I think i will return to the Norfolk sun before I depress myself even
further…
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Ravel Morrison faces West Ham transfer after delaying groin surgery because
he was too scared
Jul 23, 2014 22:30 By Darren Lewis
Boss Allardyce "didn't seem that sympathetic" when the club had to explain
to controversial midfielder he needed the op now to be fit for start of
season
The Mirror
West Ham are ready to offload Ravel Morrison - because the midfielder is not
in Sam Allardyce's plans for the new season. The England Under-21
international, a fans' favourite at Upton Park, is recovering from a minor
groin operation while the rest of the Hammers' squad are touring New
Zealand. The procedure was delayed, however, after Morrison refused to have
the op because he was frightened about being cut. It is claimed Allardyce
"didn't seem that sympathetic" West Ham had to persuade the player the
surgery was necessary ahead of the new season. Morrison is also said to have
left Big Sam exasperated with an aversion to long-haul flights. It comes two
years after Morrison, 21, refused to drink anything other than official
'West Ham bottled water' during a pre-season stay in Germany. The former
Manchester United schemer has been at St George's Park in the Midlands this
week as part of his rehab. He has just a year left on his Hammers' contract
and has been persistently linked with a new deal.
Mirror Sport understands Swansea, Russia's CSKA Moscow and Sporting Lisbon
of Portugal have made discreet enquiries about his availability this summer.
Fulham failed with a big to poach him from Upton Park in January, and a
string of Championship clubs are interested in taking Morrison on loan for
next season. At his parent club, however, it is understood that Big Sam is
not prepared to indulge him ahead of the Hammers' team. A source close to
Morrison said: "Sam has been brilliant with Ravel – to his face – so unless
someone tells us otherwise he is happy to stay at West Ham. All the
indications have been that something could be worked out with his contract."
Morrison scored one of the goals of last season with his outstanding solo
effort as the Irons stunned Tottenham. It came during the first half of the
campaign, in which the midfielder was among West Ham's best players. But he
was shipped out on loan to QPR in February, as Allardyce constantly claimed
he was injured – only for Morrison to play regularly at Loftus Road.
West Ham were beaten 2-1 by Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on their tour of
New Zealand on Wednesday. They face Sydney FC in Wellington on Saturday.
Ravel Morrison's career timeline
2009 Signed for the Manchester United academy.
2010 Turned professional at Old Trafford on his 17th birthday.
2011 Received a 12-month referral order and was ordered to pay £1,445 in
costs and compensation after admitting two counts of witness intimidation.
Assault charge dropped when his girlfriend refused to testify. Convicted of
criminal damage for throwing her phone out of a window. Advised to undergo
counselling.
2012 Limited chances at United led to him being sold to West Ham in January.
Charged by the FA over the posting of a homophobic threat on twitter.
Accepted his guilt and was fined £7,000.
2013 After being capped by England at U16, U17 and U18, made debut for the
U21s against San Marino.
Returned from a loan spell at Birmingham and scored one of the goals of the
season on a solo run against Spurs at White Hart Lane.
2014 Loaned to QPR and was in the Wembley squad that won the playoff final.
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Could new signing Cheikhou Kouyate from Anderlecht give West Ham the
platform to play under Sam Allardyce?
With the help of Sky Sports' Belgium correspondent Kristof Terreur and the
Opta data, Adam Bate discusses whether Cheikhou Kouyate could have a big
impact at West Ham...
By Adam Bate | Twitter @ghostgoal | Last Updated: 23/07/14 11:51pm
SSN
Following a season that left some in the stands and the board room
dissatisfied with West Ham's efforts, the appointment of Teddy Sheringham as
an attacking coach was seen as a symbol of a new era of intent. But the
signs are that Sam Allardyce will continue to do things his way. While
Sheringham will get the chance to develop talents such as Enner Valencia and
Mauro Zarate, the West Ham manager has shown his determination to maintain a
robust approach by building his midfield around a 6'4" powerhouse who spent
much of last season at centre-back.
Cheikhou Kouyate joined the Hammers from Anderlecht in a £7million deal
earlier this month after featuring in the team's back-four in all but one of
their six Champions League appearances last term. Indeed, he was in the
centre of defence all season until reverting back to midfield in April. His
Champions League statistics are indicative of his significant presence as he
ranked among the club's top two players for tackles, interceptions,
clearances and blocks. Kouyate even boasted the best aerial duel success
rate for any player to win 10 or more in last season's competition. Such
efforts led Sky Sports' resident Belgian football correspondent Kristof
Terreur to describe Kouyate as "one of the better defenders in Belgium" with
the caveat that he "sometimes he still has some strange attacking movements"
in his game.
It's those attacking instincts his new boss is so keen to harness. Upon his
acquisition, Allardyce told the club's official website: "Kouyate is a
dynamic midfielder, goes box to box and has excellent skills with both feet
as well as being strong in the air. If needed, he can fill in at centre back
but his strength will be what he can do in midfield and creating the chances
we need to attack."
Kouyate's pre-season performances have certainly offered encouragement that
the Hammers might be able to find the right balance. After making a strong
debut against Stevenage, Kouyate got his first goal against Ipswich in an
assured display that showcased his pace, strength and ball-playing
abilities. Perhaps Allardyce now has the physical foil for Mark Noble in
midfield.
The 24-year-old looks to be benefiting from the deal being agreed so early
in the summer. "I've adapted well," he says. "The team has really welcomed
me and the players have been extremely kind. That's great and has helped me
fit in. That's what I was expecting, but I wasn't expecting it to happen so
quickly. From my very first day at West Ham, they have all been behind me."
This unity will be a key factor in whether West Ham's season is to be judged
a success or a failure by next May. Even when it comes to the arrival of
Sheringham, the insistence that the new coach was picked by Allardyce offers
hope that the integration of all the new faces will be a smooth one.
"Sam picked the one he wanted," said co-owner David Sullivan, quoted in the
Daily Mirror. "I think he has analysed the performance of the team last year
and agreed that we would like to score more goals. It was a weakness of the
team and he has brought in an expert to try and improve that."
Sheringham may be here and the mood at West Ham is changing. But Allardyce's
fingerprints remain on the team. And if Kouyate can build on his early
promise, that might be no bad thing.
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Nolan's words come back to haunt him
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 23, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Earlier this week Kevin Nolan told the Sun Andy-Carroll-1200
"We'll have the big man available for the whole of the season and that will
be a big thing for us, I'm confident that if we can keep Andy fit, as well
as introducing the signings we have brought in, this year is going to be a
very good one for us."
Those words must be haunting Nolan when hours later it became clear Andy
Carroll's fitness remained in severe doubt following West Ham's statement
last night blaming his ankle.
He is expected to fly back home today and it is claimed he will return to
face an intensive specialized programme in attempt to get him ready and
repay the faith the West Ham board and manager put in him when he signed
last summer.
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Thursday, July 24
Wednesday, July 23
Daily WHUFC News - 23rd July 2014
Match Preview - Wellington Phoenix
WHUFC.com
Team news, ticket and travel details and much more ahead of West Ham United's historic visit to Eden Park
22.07.2014
WELLINGTON PHOENIX v WEST HAM UNITED
FOOTBALL UNITED TOUR
EDEN PARK, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
WEDNESDAY 23JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.37PM NZ TIME
In brief
West Ham United play their first-ever match in New Zealand as part of the 2014 Football United Tour, taking on A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the 50,000-capacity Eden Park in Auckland.
The tournament also features Newcastle United, who beat Sydney FC 4-0 in the opening match in Dunedin, on New Zealand's South Island, on Tuesday evening.
The Hammers have drawn their opening two pre-season matches 2-2 at Stevenage and 0-0 at Ipswich Town, but will be hopeful of scoring a first victory when they take on the Phoenix on Wednesday.
Thousands of supporters from across New Zealand, Australia and further afield have descended on New Zealand's biggest city for what promises to be a unique occasion in Kiwi football history.
Before the big match kicks-off at 7.37pm local time, a curtain-raiser fixture will be played featuring some of New Zealand's best-known celebrities and sports stars. This kicks-off at 6pm.
A moment's silence will be held before kick-off in the main match in memory of John Alder and Liam Sweeney, the two Newcastle fans who were tragically killed en route to New Zealand, when a Malaysian Airlines flight was shot down over Ukraine last week.
The match will be screened live on television in New Zealand on pay-per-view by Sky Sport, in the UK by BT Sport and in more than 20 other countries around the world.
Who are they?
Founded in March 2007 following the dissolution of the New Zealand Knights, Wellington Phoenix entered the A-League later the same year, becoming the first expansion club in the league's history.
The name for the new club was picked from a shortlist of six, picked from 250 names suggested by the public, and represents the 'fresh start' for football made in the city with the club's birth.
In 2009/10, under the guidance of future New Zealand manager Ricki Herbert, Wellington Phoenix became the first ever New Zealand side to reach the A-League play-offs, defeating Perth Glory and Newcastle Jets to reach the Preliminary final, where they were beaten by Sydney FC. The Nix, as they are nicknamed, reached the play-offs again in 2011 and 2012.
In September 2011, the Phoenix was taken over by Welnix, a consortium of some of Wellington's most successful and influential businessmen. With business acumen and professional intergrity unparallelled in New Zealand business, this consortium has secured the future of the Phoenix for many years to come.
Scottish head coach Ernie Merrick has overseen a major turnover in players since his appointment in more than a dozen new faces since his appointment in May 2013. A two-time A-League champion with Melbourne Victory, Merrick will hope to see the Phoenix rise from a ninth-place finish in 2013/14.
As New Zealand's sole A-League representative, the Phoenix are an important and integral part of the country's sporting landscape, enjoying passionate support at home and abroad. With a strong suite of corporate sponsors, a passionate supporter base and the support of the Wellington community in general, the Wellington Phoenix's future looks bright.
Team news
West Ham will field the vast majority of their 24-man squad at Eden Park. However, Andy Carroll will miss the game with an ankle injury. For an update on this, click here.
One to watch
Wellington Phoenix
Australia international midfielder and winger Nathan Burns joined Wellington Phoenix from Korean club Incheon United in June 2014. Capped seven times by his country, Burns attended the Australian Institute of Sport as a youngster before turning out for Parramatta Eagles and A-League club Adelaide United.
In 2008, Burns moved to European football by joining Greek Super League side AEK Athens. He spent three and a half years in Greece, being loaned to Kerkyra in 2009/10, and totalled 70 appearances and ten goals for the two clubs.
After 18 months with Incheon, the 26-year-old returned to his homeland with Newcastle Jets on loan, scoring twice in 12 A-League appearances in 2013/14. At international level, Burns also helped Australia to runners-up spot at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.
West Ham United
West Ham United fans could see Mauro Zarate make his second appearance in a Hammers shirt, with the exciting Argentine having made his debut as a substitute at Ipswich Town last time out.
Technically excellent, blessed with a low centre of gravity and superb finishing skills, Zarate has the talent and game to play in any of the attacking positions - either 'in the hole', out wide or as a central striker.
Zarate has looked sharp in training in New Zealand and could be handed a start in Andy Carroll's absence at Eden Park.
Tickets
Tickets are still available for what promises to be a unique occasion at New Zealand's largest stadium - Eden Park.
To purchases your tickets now, click here.
Travel
By public transport: For full information about how to get to Eden Park by public transport, click here.
By car: For full information about the road closures and parking restrictions around Eden Park, click here.
Where to go for a pre-match drink/meal
West Ham United fans are set to take over many of the bars in Auckland city centre, with supporters' groups attending from all over New Zealand, Australia and beyond.
The Australian supporters' clubs will be at O'Hagan's Irish Pub in the city's Viaduct Harbour district from 4pm.
Weather
The forecast is for a cool evening, with the small possibility of some showers and a maximum temperature of 10C (50F).
Last meeting
West Ham United have never met Wellington Phoenix previously.
Old boys
No player has every turned out for West Ham United and Wellington Phoenix.
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New Zealand update
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll will be rested for both games on the Football United tour in New Zealand
22.07.2014
Andy Carroll will miss both games on the Football United tour of New Zealand as a precautionary measure after developing a sore left ankle during training.
After assessment by the Club's medical experts, it was decided to let the England international rest for both remaining games and receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the start of the season. It should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season. West Ham United kick off their Football United tour against Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on Wednesday evening before facing Sydney FC in Wellington on Saturday.
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Phoenix rise to Hammers challenge
WHUFc.com
Wellington Phoenix head coach Ernie Merrick says the A-League club cannot wait to face West Ham United
21.07.2014
West Ham United's Football United Tour is a big deal to Wellington Phoenix. The visit of the Hammers, Newcastle United and Sydney FC to New Zealand was the brainchild of the A-League club, who will face Sam Allardyce's side at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday evening. While both clubs are still in pre-season, Phoenix head coach Ernie Merrick says the Football United Tour has caught the imagination of his players, staff and the general public alike. "I'm looking forward to it, the players are certainly looking forward to it and it has created a huge buzz around the whole of New Zealand," said Merrick, who visited Chadwell Heath earlier this year. It's great to see so many fans come out to see us. "This has never been done before in Australia and New Zealand, having two English Premier League sides visiting the country at the same time. This is first-class and we'll be making the most of it and hopefully we can put on a show for the fans. "First and foremost this is about our preparation in pre-season. In the A-League the pre-season is a prolonged period, so we really need to utilise the time well and play games regionally and against Australian sides. To play two Premier League sides is a huge boost for us and it will give our boys a chance to play against the players they have only seen on television."
Merrick said the Football United Tour, which is being broadcast in more than 20 countries worldwide, would offer the opportunity for his players to catch the attention of European clubs. "This is going to be broadcast on television, so it will be seen in Europe as well and I have no doubt that some of our young players will want to be spotted. I don't think it's a bad thing for them to have that ambition and we have some technically very good youngsters here.
"It will be very competitive. There is no doubt that Kiwi boys are very competitive, but they'll want to play good football too. This isn't about rough and tough or about defending - it's about trying to play a style that entertains the fans. "The result is important, but performance is very important for us at this stage as well."
Ticket sales for Wednesday's fixture and Saturday's double-header at Westpac Stadium in Wellington, where West Ham will face Sydney FC and the Phoenix will host Newcastle, have been very strong. A 20,000-strong crowd is expected at Eden Park, while a sell-out 34,500 will attend at Westpac - outstanding figures in a country more commonly associated with rugby union. "Ticket sales have been terrific, thanks in part to the promotion done by West Ham and Newcastle and the fact they have brought all their players," Merrick confirmed. "On the back of the World Cup, this really promotes the game in our country."
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Claret and Blues
WHUFC.com
All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan spent time with West Ham United during their tour to New Zealand
22.07.2014
West Ham United visited one of world sport's great venues on Tuesday, where they were welcomed by one of New Zealand's legendary sporting heroes.
Sir John Kirwan played 63 Test matches for the All Blacks rugby union team between 1984 and 1994, scoring 35 tries and winning the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. The former winger spent eleven years playing for his home city of Auckland, while also turning out for Italian club Treviso during the European season. It was while living in Italy that he developed a love of football, supporting Juventus and studying the nuances of the beautiful game. Now a successful coach who has led both Italy and Japan to Rugby World Cups, the 49-year-old is now head coach of the Super Rugby team Auckland Blues. On Tuesday, he - was a very interested spectator - along with Blues players Angus Ta'avao, Jamison Gibson-Park and James Parsons - as West Ham trained at the home of the Blues, Auckland's iconic Eden Park. The Hammers taken on A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the 50,000-seater stadium on Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.
Sir John welcomed the Hammers to a stadium where he enjoyed a near-perfect playing record before spending an extended period in discussion with Hammers manager Sam Allardyce. "For me, Eden Park is a very special place," Sir John confirmed. "I didn't lose here for four years and didn't lose here playing for the All Blacks for about eight years and only lost two games in total, so it's a very special ground for me and I feel really at home here.
"It's a great honour for me to have such a prestigious football team here and I hope you enjoy the moment of what, for me, is a very special place. The honour is ours that you are here. "I'm a big soccer fan. I lived in Italy for 12 years and I like to study the game, so I'm a really passionate fan. I follow Juventus and my son plays soccer and wants to be a professional soccer player. He loves his soccer and I watch him play and am passionate about it. "It's also good for me to study. Big Sam, who I have seen from a distance for many years, was absolutely outstanding for me. As a manager myself, I got the chance to talk to him about some of the finer points on how to manage sides at that level."
Sir John believes that rugby union, which was an amatuer sport just 20 years ago, is now catching up with football - and in some areas has overtaken it - when it comes to many technical, physical, mental and commercial aspects of the game. "I think it's fair to say that rugby is heading towards soccer as far as income and the pressures on us as coaches and managers, so I was very privileged that I spent half an hour chatting to Sam. "I think all sports can learn from each other and many of the things I was talking about with Sam were mainly around management of players - physical, mental, game-stress and implementation of gameplan under pressure. There are a whole lot of different things, but they all come back to the individual athlete."
While New Zealand is undoubtedly rugby country, Sir John was quick to make the comparison of the Kiwis' love of the All Blacks and West Ham fans' loyal support of their own team. "For us, rugby is a bit like football is for you guys - a religion. I sum it up by saying that when my team loses - the biggest team with the biggest stadium in New Zealand - and I ring my mother up, who is 86, she will tell me what went wrong and ask me about selection, the scrum and the lineout. "That makes this country very unique and it's a bit like football in the UK. There are a lot of people who know about the game. We're passionate about it, we've got a winning culture and that comes with expectation and lots of passion, which is why we do it."
While Sir John had few peers as a rugby player, his talent on the football pitch is less well known. However, fans watching Wednesday's Football United Tour fixture between West Ham and Wellington will be able to catch him in action in a pre-match curtain-raiser game at Eden Park, which kicks-off at 6pm local time. "I've got a special pair of boots which make me go fast!" he joked. "I'm actually going to be playing as a defender, so if anybody tries to go past me there could be some contact! "I've heard the English game is much more physical than our game, so I was very interested to look at the Phoenix and your athletes, but I wouldn't be looking at the pre-game curtain-raiser for any tips! "I'm excited to be playing, I'm honoured that you guys are here and I think it's a fantastic thing for sport in general. I'll be out there having a kick-around, but I'll be watching the main game afterwards with a lot of interest."
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Lee loving pre-season purple patch
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee is thrilled to be back scoring after injury brought a premature end to his involvement last term
22.07.2014
Elliot Lee is fit and firing again. West Ham United's teenage frontman missed the back end of last term with an ankle injury but is quickly making up for lost time. The 19-year-old has already netted four times for the Development Squad in pre-season and could hardly have wished for a better return to action.
"Pre-season's got off to a good start, I'm really pleased with how it's gone," Lee told West Ham TV. "With my injury last season, I really wanted to get my fitness and sharpness back as soon as I could. I think you can see that it's coming now and the goals are just an added bonus. It's brilliant to get them. "As a striker that's all you want to do, you want to score goals! I know throughout the season there will be blips when I don't score and I've just got to keep my confidence up. But at the minute, it's going really well for me. Hopefully I can just carry on scoring more."
Following a match-winning double at Havant and Waterlooville on Tuesday evening, Lee was at it again on Sunday, netting twice in quick succession to help down RCD Espanyol. If his first was a thing of beauty, nestling perfectly in the far corner, the second was more of a poacher's goal, but both welcome in his bid to wrestle his way back into senior reckoning. He continued: "I think it was a great team goal," he confirmed. "I owe all credit to my team-mates. We've popped it about down the left-hand side. It's a great ball from Kieran [Sadlier] to Sebby [Sebastian Lletget], it's a great set from Sebby to me and I've just put it in the corner, so it's a great goal all round if you ask me. "It [the second] is just being in the right place at the right time. Sam [Westley] has headed it against the bar and luckily it's come straight to me and I've just been able to put it in the goal. "I'm happy with my performances so far. I hope to carry on scoring goals, playing well and if I catch the gaffer's eye, then hopefully I can go and put in performances for the first team. But we'll have to see about that."
Aside from his own form, Lee is encouraged by how the Development Squad is shaping up this term, particularly with a new raft of youngsters ready to stake their claim. He continued: "I think we've had a great start to pre-season. All the lads are gelling again, we're all looking forward to the new season and hopefully we can do really well. We've got all the youngsters coming through. We push the youngsters on and they push us on, so there's no difference really. They've stepped up very well and they don't look out of place at all."
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West Ham striker Andy Carroll has picked up an ankle injury
Last Updated: 22/07/14 11:14pm
SSN
Andy Carroll is to miss both of West Ham United's friendly contests in New Zealand after picking up an ankle problem. The 25-year-old had been hoping to enjoy an injury-free pre-season, allowing him to start the 2014/15 campaign at peak fitness. Having spent much of last season on the treatment table as he nursed his way back from a serious heel complaint, the last thing he wanted was to suffer a fresh setback. West Ham hope the problem is not too serious and plan to rest Carroll as a precaution. They remain confident that the England international will be ready for the start of the new Premier League season and that there will be no repeat of the concerns from 12 months ago. A statement posted on the club's official website read: "After assessment by the Club's medical experts, it was decided to let the England international rest for both remaining games and receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the start of the season. "It should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season."
West Ham are due to face Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on Wednesday morning before travelling to Wellington to play Sydney FC on Saturday.
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GUEST POST: DAY TWO IN NEW ZEALAND
By Iain Dale 22 Jul 2014 at 08:37
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Kiwi Hammer
I will cut to the chase ….. Andy Carroll did not train and was not at the ground. A "reliable source" tells me he was doing a gym session and they were hoping he would play tomorrow but would make no further comment other than that ……. like the seasoned journo i have become (ha ha ha ha ) i cannot divulge that source!
But the weather was better and the stadium far more befitting of the mighty West Ham Utd (1895) and much to my delight i managed to get the following players to sign my daughter's West Ham tops, and for that I will be forever grateful …… Kevin Nolan, Winston Reid, Ginge Collins, Mohammed Diame ….. and my personal favourite ……. Carlton Cole.
You will also be delighted to know that one of the drills focussed on SHOOTING !!
The guys spilt into 3 groups. Poyet, Vaz Te, Diame, Jarvis, Reid & Potts Nolan, Ginge. Tomkins, Zarate, Kouyate Noble, Downing, Cresswell, Demel, Cole
Obviously there were also the Academy boys who I'm less familiar with. One end was a 6 v 6 "game" in one third of the pitch, the other end the ball movement and shooting drill alternating sides of the pitch. At both ends the keepers were wholly involved. The groups rotated between attacking the goal in the 6 v 6, defending the goal in the 6 v 6 and the shooting drill.
Apart from a brief shower the weather held. David Gold mixed and mingled and talked of the possibility of additional loan players to add to the squad …. gee he's a patient man!!
I'm a 48 year man yet felt like a school boy today. I cant wait for tomorrow. You should all be very proud of your team, they are all doing you and the club proud over here.
I can see an upsurge in the support for West Ham United from down under.
Interestingly ….. someone (i assume authorised) was also selling West Ham gear as you came through the gate …… probably too many kids and not enough Dads to be successful, but interesting nonetheless. Tomorrow night could be a bumper night for sales.
The groundsman tells me they are hoping for 20,000 tomorrow night, anything above 10 realistically will be a great result (funny, he was also getting grumpy with the goalkeepers chewing up the grass and the work he was going to have to do to get it shipshape by kick off).
Come on you Irons
UPDATE: I've just read that 17,000 tickets have been pre-sold.
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West Ham's young wing wizard Oscar Borg, on trial at Manchester United, to start for Red Devils' Under 18 side
Borg, on trial at Manchester United, to start for Red Devils' Under 18 side
The West Ham youngster has been dubbed as the 'next Gareth Bale'
Southampton are also interested in 16-year-old wing-back
By ADAM CRAFTON
PUBLISHED: 19:23, 22 July 2014 | UPDATED: 19:23, 22 July 2014
Daily Mail
Oscar Borg, the 16-year-old West Ham winger compared to Gareth Bale and on trial at Manchester United, is set to start for the Red Devils' under-18 team against Trafford on Monday night. The youngster, currently trying to impress at Old Trafford, has also attracted interest from Southampton, according to the Daily Express. Nicknamed 'Gareth' by the West Ham coaching set-up for a similar style of play to the Welsh wizard, Borg looks to have a bright future. Should Borg impress, he will cost United around £220,000 but as he is not signed on as a scholar at West Ham he is free to move. The east Londoners have also offered another rising star, Reece Oxford, a new and much improved deal to stay following interest from United, Arsenal and Chelsea. Oxford is a 15-year-old defender who has already played for West Ham's Under 18 side. The deal is believed to be the biggest the club have ever offered to a player under 20. Speaking earlier this month Hammers co-owner David Sullivan spoke of the club's intention to keep Oxford and blasted England's top sides for continually poaching the lesser clubs' best talent. 'It almost makes you give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best 15-year-old. What's the point?,' Sullivan said. Meanwhile Ogo Obi, a trialist from Watford, will also play some part for United's young side.
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West Ham will regret sticking with Sam Allardyce
by Daryl Hardy
GiveMesport.com
Ahead of the new Premier League season West Ham have been busy in the transfer market as they look to improve on a stuttering campaign last term, however their decision to stick with Sam Allardyce as manager could prove to be their downfall. The Hammers finished 13th last season reaching the benchmark points tally of 40 which is often enough to ensure a team of their Premier League safety. However the 2013-14 season was not like many others with the bottom half of the table in a relegation dogfight for the majority of it.
Deserves recognition
Just seven points separated the relegated Norwich in 18th and West Ham. Allardyce deserves credit for getting his side out of the scrap and clearing them to safety, which he has previously stated was his objective for the season. Although if the club want to progress and ensure they are not involved in a similar situation in the future, then it is perhaps not wise to stick with the man that put them there in the first place.
In need of a new style
Allardyce teams are fighters, scrappers and give everything they've got to the cause which is a credit to the man as it has got them this far. But in my opinion his style does not suit the West Ham philosophy of free-flowing, attacking football, breeding youngsters through the academy and generating excitement among fans with their often unpredictable but enjoyable performances. Nowadays under Allardyce they are the complete opposite. They have become so predictable that teams know how to deal with them and have wisened up to the 59-year-old manager's tricks. He plays direct, percentage football that isn't very reliable or pretty to watch. The fact that his sides are usually defensively sound and well organised is his saving grace, but is that enough in the modern era of football that is all about goals and excitement?
Calls for sacking
There were vociferous calls from sections of the club's support for his dismissal last season despite the side reaching the Capital One Cup semi-final and securing league safety. The board at the club have been insistent on improvements being made to the team's style of play to provide "more entertainment" in future while also demanding a top-half finish. But having watched many Allardyce sides in the past he is not one to change – his Bolton, Blackburn and Newcastle team's all provided similar displays and outcomes.
In my view it would be a surprise if Big Sam is still at the helm this time next year as his new season objectives appear rather ambitious and I don't believe he is the man to take them forward, but if his new signings deliver then there is no reason why he can't steer them clear of relegation once again.
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Up to 950 homes to be build at the Boleyn Ground
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
A scoping planning application has been submitted to Newham council on behalf of the applicant Galliard Homes for the redevelopment of the Boleyn Ground. The proposed application is for demolition of the existing buildings on site and the development of a residential-led mixed used scheme compromising of up to approximately 950 residential units in a number of buildings ranging in height from 3-16 storeys. Also proposed is approximately 950sqm of non-residential floor space which predominantly comprises of small-scale commercial and community uses and public and private open spaces and landscaping.
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Arsenal chasing West Ham starlet
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: July 22, 2014
ARSENAL have joined the chase for West Ham youngster Reece Oxford. The teenager has impressed for the Hammers youth team and is now on the radar for several Premier League Clubs. The Gunners will have to fend off interest from Manchester United and Chelsea if they are to secure the defender's signature. However, Sam Allardyce is hoping to keep hold of Oxford, as the club try to pin him down to a long-term deal.
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Andy Carroll will play one half tomorrow
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Brisbane & Sydney Hammers from Australia are in New Zealand to watch the Football United tour and earlier today Claret and Hugh caught up with Brisbane Hammers chairman Dave Rhodes to give us an update of today's open training session. "David Gold said Andy Carroll had a slight knock and would play a half tomorrow. He didn't train today. There wasn't a whole lot to report from the training. They were kicking the ball about doing a bit of sprints etc. everybody was there except Carroll from what I could see. Kevin Nolan came over for a chat with the Brisbane Hammers and he was good as gold. The West Ham media team took our banner to the dressing room and got it signed by all the West Ham lads. None of the other players came over to us which was a bit disappointing but David Gold came over for a good chat, what a lovely bloke he is. We were interviewed by West ham TV first then New Zealand TV Channel One News which you can see below. COYI"
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Enner Valencia to miss Wellington Phoenix clash as club plays down Ivan Strinic links
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 22 July 2014 Updated: 11:38, 22 July 2014
West Ham's new £12 million signing Enner Valencia will be missing from Sam Allardyce's team when they meet Wellington Phoenix tomorrow in the first of two pre‑season tour matches in New Zealand. The 24-year-old, who scored all of Ecuador's three goals in the World Cup finals, has signed a five-year deal for the Upton Park club but is still waiting for a work permit.
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Hammers hit Arsenal "wall"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are still chasing Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson but talks are currently deadlocked! The Hammers are keen to grab the right back either permanently or on loan but the Gunners are playing hardball. And until the north Londoners complete their own business it is unlikely the Hammers will be able to move forward. Jenkinson would have a £5 million price tag on his head were he be allowed to move on from the Emirates and it would be a deal the Irons would find hard to resist. The alternative of course would be a loan with an option to buy at the end of the season. However, at the moment Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is unwilling to move the process on as he chases his own targets. A senior Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "Nothing has changed at the moment but that's not to say it's dead. Anything can happen in this game!"
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AC fitness: The big question
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Andy Carroll's state of health continues to monopolise pre season as more reports flow in on the issue from New Zealand. ClaretandHugh carried a story yesterday which claimed the Geordie had done just five minutes on the training pitch. Very quickly a source close to the club, and with the squad in New Zealand, claimed there was no injury, that he trained fully on Sunday and was on an exercise bike in the tunnel on Monday during the training session. He added he will play in both games in New Zealand, that he was a bit behind the other squad members in terms of fitness and had his own programme. The first game comes against Wellington Phoenix tomorrow morning and the second against Sydney FC on Saturday. How much that will tell us about his state of fitness is debatable given these are, after all, friendlies. But the big question that hasn't been answered after originally being raised on Twitter by a usually reliable resource, is WHY the player is behind the others in training. Unless there has been an injury problem – and there didn't appear to be as he enjoyed the summer break amid the usual accompanying glare of publicity – it begs a few questions. I have little doubt that the No 9 will be up to speed by the time the Spurs match comes around but given his history with injuries, the club should not be surprised that questions are being asked by the fans. Andy Carroll's fitness is a major and central issue at West Ham United and hopefully at some stage we will be told why he has been on his own programme.
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WHUFC.com
Team news, ticket and travel details and much more ahead of West Ham United's historic visit to Eden Park
22.07.2014
WELLINGTON PHOENIX v WEST HAM UNITED
FOOTBALL UNITED TOUR
EDEN PARK, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
WEDNESDAY 23JULY 2014
KICK-OFF: 7.37PM NZ TIME
In brief
West Ham United play their first-ever match in New Zealand as part of the 2014 Football United Tour, taking on A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the 50,000-capacity Eden Park in Auckland.
The tournament also features Newcastle United, who beat Sydney FC 4-0 in the opening match in Dunedin, on New Zealand's South Island, on Tuesday evening.
The Hammers have drawn their opening two pre-season matches 2-2 at Stevenage and 0-0 at Ipswich Town, but will be hopeful of scoring a first victory when they take on the Phoenix on Wednesday.
Thousands of supporters from across New Zealand, Australia and further afield have descended on New Zealand's biggest city for what promises to be a unique occasion in Kiwi football history.
Before the big match kicks-off at 7.37pm local time, a curtain-raiser fixture will be played featuring some of New Zealand's best-known celebrities and sports stars. This kicks-off at 6pm.
A moment's silence will be held before kick-off in the main match in memory of John Alder and Liam Sweeney, the two Newcastle fans who were tragically killed en route to New Zealand, when a Malaysian Airlines flight was shot down over Ukraine last week.
The match will be screened live on television in New Zealand on pay-per-view by Sky Sport, in the UK by BT Sport and in more than 20 other countries around the world.
Who are they?
Founded in March 2007 following the dissolution of the New Zealand Knights, Wellington Phoenix entered the A-League later the same year, becoming the first expansion club in the league's history.
The name for the new club was picked from a shortlist of six, picked from 250 names suggested by the public, and represents the 'fresh start' for football made in the city with the club's birth.
In 2009/10, under the guidance of future New Zealand manager Ricki Herbert, Wellington Phoenix became the first ever New Zealand side to reach the A-League play-offs, defeating Perth Glory and Newcastle Jets to reach the Preliminary final, where they were beaten by Sydney FC. The Nix, as they are nicknamed, reached the play-offs again in 2011 and 2012.
In September 2011, the Phoenix was taken over by Welnix, a consortium of some of Wellington's most successful and influential businessmen. With business acumen and professional intergrity unparallelled in New Zealand business, this consortium has secured the future of the Phoenix for many years to come.
Scottish head coach Ernie Merrick has overseen a major turnover in players since his appointment in more than a dozen new faces since his appointment in May 2013. A two-time A-League champion with Melbourne Victory, Merrick will hope to see the Phoenix rise from a ninth-place finish in 2013/14.
As New Zealand's sole A-League representative, the Phoenix are an important and integral part of the country's sporting landscape, enjoying passionate support at home and abroad. With a strong suite of corporate sponsors, a passionate supporter base and the support of the Wellington community in general, the Wellington Phoenix's future looks bright.
Team news
West Ham will field the vast majority of their 24-man squad at Eden Park. However, Andy Carroll will miss the game with an ankle injury. For an update on this, click here.
One to watch
Wellington Phoenix
Australia international midfielder and winger Nathan Burns joined Wellington Phoenix from Korean club Incheon United in June 2014. Capped seven times by his country, Burns attended the Australian Institute of Sport as a youngster before turning out for Parramatta Eagles and A-League club Adelaide United.
In 2008, Burns moved to European football by joining Greek Super League side AEK Athens. He spent three and a half years in Greece, being loaned to Kerkyra in 2009/10, and totalled 70 appearances and ten goals for the two clubs.
After 18 months with Incheon, the 26-year-old returned to his homeland with Newcastle Jets on loan, scoring twice in 12 A-League appearances in 2013/14. At international level, Burns also helped Australia to runners-up spot at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.
West Ham United
West Ham United fans could see Mauro Zarate make his second appearance in a Hammers shirt, with the exciting Argentine having made his debut as a substitute at Ipswich Town last time out.
Technically excellent, blessed with a low centre of gravity and superb finishing skills, Zarate has the talent and game to play in any of the attacking positions - either 'in the hole', out wide or as a central striker.
Zarate has looked sharp in training in New Zealand and could be handed a start in Andy Carroll's absence at Eden Park.
Tickets
Tickets are still available for what promises to be a unique occasion at New Zealand's largest stadium - Eden Park.
To purchases your tickets now, click here.
Travel
By public transport: For full information about how to get to Eden Park by public transport, click here.
By car: For full information about the road closures and parking restrictions around Eden Park, click here.
Where to go for a pre-match drink/meal
West Ham United fans are set to take over many of the bars in Auckland city centre, with supporters' groups attending from all over New Zealand, Australia and beyond.
The Australian supporters' clubs will be at O'Hagan's Irish Pub in the city's Viaduct Harbour district from 4pm.
Weather
The forecast is for a cool evening, with the small possibility of some showers and a maximum temperature of 10C (50F).
Last meeting
West Ham United have never met Wellington Phoenix previously.
Old boys
No player has every turned out for West Ham United and Wellington Phoenix.
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New Zealand update
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll will be rested for both games on the Football United tour in New Zealand
22.07.2014
Andy Carroll will miss both games on the Football United tour of New Zealand as a precautionary measure after developing a sore left ankle during training.
After assessment by the Club's medical experts, it was decided to let the England international rest for both remaining games and receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the start of the season. It should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season. West Ham United kick off their Football United tour against Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on Wednesday evening before facing Sydney FC in Wellington on Saturday.
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Phoenix rise to Hammers challenge
WHUFc.com
Wellington Phoenix head coach Ernie Merrick says the A-League club cannot wait to face West Ham United
21.07.2014
West Ham United's Football United Tour is a big deal to Wellington Phoenix. The visit of the Hammers, Newcastle United and Sydney FC to New Zealand was the brainchild of the A-League club, who will face Sam Allardyce's side at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday evening. While both clubs are still in pre-season, Phoenix head coach Ernie Merrick says the Football United Tour has caught the imagination of his players, staff and the general public alike. "I'm looking forward to it, the players are certainly looking forward to it and it has created a huge buzz around the whole of New Zealand," said Merrick, who visited Chadwell Heath earlier this year. It's great to see so many fans come out to see us. "This has never been done before in Australia and New Zealand, having two English Premier League sides visiting the country at the same time. This is first-class and we'll be making the most of it and hopefully we can put on a show for the fans. "First and foremost this is about our preparation in pre-season. In the A-League the pre-season is a prolonged period, so we really need to utilise the time well and play games regionally and against Australian sides. To play two Premier League sides is a huge boost for us and it will give our boys a chance to play against the players they have only seen on television."
Merrick said the Football United Tour, which is being broadcast in more than 20 countries worldwide, would offer the opportunity for his players to catch the attention of European clubs. "This is going to be broadcast on television, so it will be seen in Europe as well and I have no doubt that some of our young players will want to be spotted. I don't think it's a bad thing for them to have that ambition and we have some technically very good youngsters here.
"It will be very competitive. There is no doubt that Kiwi boys are very competitive, but they'll want to play good football too. This isn't about rough and tough or about defending - it's about trying to play a style that entertains the fans. "The result is important, but performance is very important for us at this stage as well."
Ticket sales for Wednesday's fixture and Saturday's double-header at Westpac Stadium in Wellington, where West Ham will face Sydney FC and the Phoenix will host Newcastle, have been very strong. A 20,000-strong crowd is expected at Eden Park, while a sell-out 34,500 will attend at Westpac - outstanding figures in a country more commonly associated with rugby union. "Ticket sales have been terrific, thanks in part to the promotion done by West Ham and Newcastle and the fact they have brought all their players," Merrick confirmed. "On the back of the World Cup, this really promotes the game in our country."
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Claret and Blues
WHUFC.com
All Blacks great Sir John Kirwan spent time with West Ham United during their tour to New Zealand
22.07.2014
West Ham United visited one of world sport's great venues on Tuesday, where they were welcomed by one of New Zealand's legendary sporting heroes.
Sir John Kirwan played 63 Test matches for the All Blacks rugby union team between 1984 and 1994, scoring 35 tries and winning the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. The former winger spent eleven years playing for his home city of Auckland, while also turning out for Italian club Treviso during the European season. It was while living in Italy that he developed a love of football, supporting Juventus and studying the nuances of the beautiful game. Now a successful coach who has led both Italy and Japan to Rugby World Cups, the 49-year-old is now head coach of the Super Rugby team Auckland Blues. On Tuesday, he - was a very interested spectator - along with Blues players Angus Ta'avao, Jamison Gibson-Park and James Parsons - as West Ham trained at the home of the Blues, Auckland's iconic Eden Park. The Hammers taken on A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the 50,000-seater stadium on Wednesday evening at 7.30pm.
Sir John welcomed the Hammers to a stadium where he enjoyed a near-perfect playing record before spending an extended period in discussion with Hammers manager Sam Allardyce. "For me, Eden Park is a very special place," Sir John confirmed. "I didn't lose here for four years and didn't lose here playing for the All Blacks for about eight years and only lost two games in total, so it's a very special ground for me and I feel really at home here.
"It's a great honour for me to have such a prestigious football team here and I hope you enjoy the moment of what, for me, is a very special place. The honour is ours that you are here. "I'm a big soccer fan. I lived in Italy for 12 years and I like to study the game, so I'm a really passionate fan. I follow Juventus and my son plays soccer and wants to be a professional soccer player. He loves his soccer and I watch him play and am passionate about it. "It's also good for me to study. Big Sam, who I have seen from a distance for many years, was absolutely outstanding for me. As a manager myself, I got the chance to talk to him about some of the finer points on how to manage sides at that level."
Sir John believes that rugby union, which was an amatuer sport just 20 years ago, is now catching up with football - and in some areas has overtaken it - when it comes to many technical, physical, mental and commercial aspects of the game. "I think it's fair to say that rugby is heading towards soccer as far as income and the pressures on us as coaches and managers, so I was very privileged that I spent half an hour chatting to Sam. "I think all sports can learn from each other and many of the things I was talking about with Sam were mainly around management of players - physical, mental, game-stress and implementation of gameplan under pressure. There are a whole lot of different things, but they all come back to the individual athlete."
While New Zealand is undoubtedly rugby country, Sir John was quick to make the comparison of the Kiwis' love of the All Blacks and West Ham fans' loyal support of their own team. "For us, rugby is a bit like football is for you guys - a religion. I sum it up by saying that when my team loses - the biggest team with the biggest stadium in New Zealand - and I ring my mother up, who is 86, she will tell me what went wrong and ask me about selection, the scrum and the lineout. "That makes this country very unique and it's a bit like football in the UK. There are a lot of people who know about the game. We're passionate about it, we've got a winning culture and that comes with expectation and lots of passion, which is why we do it."
While Sir John had few peers as a rugby player, his talent on the football pitch is less well known. However, fans watching Wednesday's Football United Tour fixture between West Ham and Wellington will be able to catch him in action in a pre-match curtain-raiser game at Eden Park, which kicks-off at 6pm local time. "I've got a special pair of boots which make me go fast!" he joked. "I'm actually going to be playing as a defender, so if anybody tries to go past me there could be some contact! "I've heard the English game is much more physical than our game, so I was very interested to look at the Phoenix and your athletes, but I wouldn't be looking at the pre-game curtain-raiser for any tips! "I'm excited to be playing, I'm honoured that you guys are here and I think it's a fantastic thing for sport in general. I'll be out there having a kick-around, but I'll be watching the main game afterwards with a lot of interest."
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Lee loving pre-season purple patch
WHUFC.com
Elliot Lee is thrilled to be back scoring after injury brought a premature end to his involvement last term
22.07.2014
Elliot Lee is fit and firing again. West Ham United's teenage frontman missed the back end of last term with an ankle injury but is quickly making up for lost time. The 19-year-old has already netted four times for the Development Squad in pre-season and could hardly have wished for a better return to action.
"Pre-season's got off to a good start, I'm really pleased with how it's gone," Lee told West Ham TV. "With my injury last season, I really wanted to get my fitness and sharpness back as soon as I could. I think you can see that it's coming now and the goals are just an added bonus. It's brilliant to get them. "As a striker that's all you want to do, you want to score goals! I know throughout the season there will be blips when I don't score and I've just got to keep my confidence up. But at the minute, it's going really well for me. Hopefully I can just carry on scoring more."
Following a match-winning double at Havant and Waterlooville on Tuesday evening, Lee was at it again on Sunday, netting twice in quick succession to help down RCD Espanyol. If his first was a thing of beauty, nestling perfectly in the far corner, the second was more of a poacher's goal, but both welcome in his bid to wrestle his way back into senior reckoning. He continued: "I think it was a great team goal," he confirmed. "I owe all credit to my team-mates. We've popped it about down the left-hand side. It's a great ball from Kieran [Sadlier] to Sebby [Sebastian Lletget], it's a great set from Sebby to me and I've just put it in the corner, so it's a great goal all round if you ask me. "It [the second] is just being in the right place at the right time. Sam [Westley] has headed it against the bar and luckily it's come straight to me and I've just been able to put it in the goal. "I'm happy with my performances so far. I hope to carry on scoring goals, playing well and if I catch the gaffer's eye, then hopefully I can go and put in performances for the first team. But we'll have to see about that."
Aside from his own form, Lee is encouraged by how the Development Squad is shaping up this term, particularly with a new raft of youngsters ready to stake their claim. He continued: "I think we've had a great start to pre-season. All the lads are gelling again, we're all looking forward to the new season and hopefully we can do really well. We've got all the youngsters coming through. We push the youngsters on and they push us on, so there's no difference really. They've stepped up very well and they don't look out of place at all."
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West Ham striker Andy Carroll has picked up an ankle injury
Last Updated: 22/07/14 11:14pm
SSN
Andy Carroll is to miss both of West Ham United's friendly contests in New Zealand after picking up an ankle problem. The 25-year-old had been hoping to enjoy an injury-free pre-season, allowing him to start the 2014/15 campaign at peak fitness. Having spent much of last season on the treatment table as he nursed his way back from a serious heel complaint, the last thing he wanted was to suffer a fresh setback. West Ham hope the problem is not too serious and plan to rest Carroll as a precaution. They remain confident that the England international will be ready for the start of the new Premier League season and that there will be no repeat of the concerns from 12 months ago. A statement posted on the club's official website read: "After assessment by the Club's medical experts, it was decided to let the England international rest for both remaining games and receive intensive treatment to ensure he is fit for the start of the season. "It should be clear that the affected area is not in any way associated with the previous injury he successfully overcame towards the end of last season."
West Ham are due to face Wellington Phoenix in Auckland on Wednesday morning before travelling to Wellington to play Sydney FC on Saturday.
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GUEST POST: DAY TWO IN NEW ZEALAND
By Iain Dale 22 Jul 2014 at 08:37
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Kiwi Hammer
I will cut to the chase ….. Andy Carroll did not train and was not at the ground. A "reliable source" tells me he was doing a gym session and they were hoping he would play tomorrow but would make no further comment other than that ……. like the seasoned journo i have become (ha ha ha ha ) i cannot divulge that source!
But the weather was better and the stadium far more befitting of the mighty West Ham Utd (1895) and much to my delight i managed to get the following players to sign my daughter's West Ham tops, and for that I will be forever grateful …… Kevin Nolan, Winston Reid, Ginge Collins, Mohammed Diame ….. and my personal favourite ……. Carlton Cole.
You will also be delighted to know that one of the drills focussed on SHOOTING !!
The guys spilt into 3 groups. Poyet, Vaz Te, Diame, Jarvis, Reid & Potts Nolan, Ginge. Tomkins, Zarate, Kouyate Noble, Downing, Cresswell, Demel, Cole
Obviously there were also the Academy boys who I'm less familiar with. One end was a 6 v 6 "game" in one third of the pitch, the other end the ball movement and shooting drill alternating sides of the pitch. At both ends the keepers were wholly involved. The groups rotated between attacking the goal in the 6 v 6, defending the goal in the 6 v 6 and the shooting drill.
Apart from a brief shower the weather held. David Gold mixed and mingled and talked of the possibility of additional loan players to add to the squad …. gee he's a patient man!!
I'm a 48 year man yet felt like a school boy today. I cant wait for tomorrow. You should all be very proud of your team, they are all doing you and the club proud over here.
I can see an upsurge in the support for West Ham United from down under.
Interestingly ….. someone (i assume authorised) was also selling West Ham gear as you came through the gate …… probably too many kids and not enough Dads to be successful, but interesting nonetheless. Tomorrow night could be a bumper night for sales.
The groundsman tells me they are hoping for 20,000 tomorrow night, anything above 10 realistically will be a great result (funny, he was also getting grumpy with the goalkeepers chewing up the grass and the work he was going to have to do to get it shipshape by kick off).
Come on you Irons
UPDATE: I've just read that 17,000 tickets have been pre-sold.
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West Ham's young wing wizard Oscar Borg, on trial at Manchester United, to start for Red Devils' Under 18 side
Borg, on trial at Manchester United, to start for Red Devils' Under 18 side
The West Ham youngster has been dubbed as the 'next Gareth Bale'
Southampton are also interested in 16-year-old wing-back
By ADAM CRAFTON
PUBLISHED: 19:23, 22 July 2014 | UPDATED: 19:23, 22 July 2014
Daily Mail
Oscar Borg, the 16-year-old West Ham winger compared to Gareth Bale and on trial at Manchester United, is set to start for the Red Devils' under-18 team against Trafford on Monday night. The youngster, currently trying to impress at Old Trafford, has also attracted interest from Southampton, according to the Daily Express. Nicknamed 'Gareth' by the West Ham coaching set-up for a similar style of play to the Welsh wizard, Borg looks to have a bright future. Should Borg impress, he will cost United around £220,000 but as he is not signed on as a scholar at West Ham he is free to move. The east Londoners have also offered another rising star, Reece Oxford, a new and much improved deal to stay following interest from United, Arsenal and Chelsea. Oxford is a 15-year-old defender who has already played for West Ham's Under 18 side. The deal is believed to be the biggest the club have ever offered to a player under 20. Speaking earlier this month Hammers co-owner David Sullivan spoke of the club's intention to keep Oxford and blasted England's top sides for continually poaching the lesser clubs' best talent. 'It almost makes you give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best 15-year-old. What's the point?,' Sullivan said. Meanwhile Ogo Obi, a trialist from Watford, will also play some part for United's young side.
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West Ham will regret sticking with Sam Allardyce
by Daryl Hardy
GiveMesport.com
Ahead of the new Premier League season West Ham have been busy in the transfer market as they look to improve on a stuttering campaign last term, however their decision to stick with Sam Allardyce as manager could prove to be their downfall. The Hammers finished 13th last season reaching the benchmark points tally of 40 which is often enough to ensure a team of their Premier League safety. However the 2013-14 season was not like many others with the bottom half of the table in a relegation dogfight for the majority of it.
Deserves recognition
Just seven points separated the relegated Norwich in 18th and West Ham. Allardyce deserves credit for getting his side out of the scrap and clearing them to safety, which he has previously stated was his objective for the season. Although if the club want to progress and ensure they are not involved in a similar situation in the future, then it is perhaps not wise to stick with the man that put them there in the first place.
In need of a new style
Allardyce teams are fighters, scrappers and give everything they've got to the cause which is a credit to the man as it has got them this far. But in my opinion his style does not suit the West Ham philosophy of free-flowing, attacking football, breeding youngsters through the academy and generating excitement among fans with their often unpredictable but enjoyable performances. Nowadays under Allardyce they are the complete opposite. They have become so predictable that teams know how to deal with them and have wisened up to the 59-year-old manager's tricks. He plays direct, percentage football that isn't very reliable or pretty to watch. The fact that his sides are usually defensively sound and well organised is his saving grace, but is that enough in the modern era of football that is all about goals and excitement?
Calls for sacking
There were vociferous calls from sections of the club's support for his dismissal last season despite the side reaching the Capital One Cup semi-final and securing league safety. The board at the club have been insistent on improvements being made to the team's style of play to provide "more entertainment" in future while also demanding a top-half finish. But having watched many Allardyce sides in the past he is not one to change – his Bolton, Blackburn and Newcastle team's all provided similar displays and outcomes.
In my view it would be a surprise if Big Sam is still at the helm this time next year as his new season objectives appear rather ambitious and I don't believe he is the man to take them forward, but if his new signings deliver then there is no reason why he can't steer them clear of relegation once again.
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Up to 950 homes to be build at the Boleyn Ground
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
A scoping planning application has been submitted to Newham council on behalf of the applicant Galliard Homes for the redevelopment of the Boleyn Ground. The proposed application is for demolition of the existing buildings on site and the development of a residential-led mixed used scheme compromising of up to approximately 950 residential units in a number of buildings ranging in height from 3-16 storeys. Also proposed is approximately 950sqm of non-residential floor space which predominantly comprises of small-scale commercial and community uses and public and private open spaces and landscaping.
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Arsenal chasing West Ham starlet
By Essex Chronicle | Posted: July 22, 2014
ARSENAL have joined the chase for West Ham youngster Reece Oxford. The teenager has impressed for the Hammers youth team and is now on the radar for several Premier League Clubs. The Gunners will have to fend off interest from Manchester United and Chelsea if they are to secure the defender's signature. However, Sam Allardyce is hoping to keep hold of Oxford, as the club try to pin him down to a long-term deal.
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Andy Carroll will play one half tomorrow
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Brisbane & Sydney Hammers from Australia are in New Zealand to watch the Football United tour and earlier today Claret and Hugh caught up with Brisbane Hammers chairman Dave Rhodes to give us an update of today's open training session. "David Gold said Andy Carroll had a slight knock and would play a half tomorrow. He didn't train today. There wasn't a whole lot to report from the training. They were kicking the ball about doing a bit of sprints etc. everybody was there except Carroll from what I could see. Kevin Nolan came over for a chat with the Brisbane Hammers and he was good as gold. The West Ham media team took our banner to the dressing room and got it signed by all the West Ham lads. None of the other players came over to us which was a bit disappointing but David Gold came over for a good chat, what a lovely bloke he is. We were interviewed by West ham TV first then New Zealand TV Channel One News which you can see below. COYI"
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Enner Valencia to miss Wellington Phoenix clash as club plays down Ivan Strinic links
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 22 July 2014 Updated: 11:38, 22 July 2014
West Ham's new £12 million signing Enner Valencia will be missing from Sam Allardyce's team when they meet Wellington Phoenix tomorrow in the first of two pre‑season tour matches in New Zealand. The 24-year-old, who scored all of Ecuador's three goals in the World Cup finals, has signed a five-year deal for the Upton Park club but is still waiting for a work permit.
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Hammers hit Arsenal "wall"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are still chasing Arsenal's Carl Jenkinson but talks are currently deadlocked! The Hammers are keen to grab the right back either permanently or on loan but the Gunners are playing hardball. And until the north Londoners complete their own business it is unlikely the Hammers will be able to move forward. Jenkinson would have a £5 million price tag on his head were he be allowed to move on from the Emirates and it would be a deal the Irons would find hard to resist. The alternative of course would be a loan with an option to buy at the end of the season. However, at the moment Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is unwilling to move the process on as he chases his own targets. A senior Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "Nothing has changed at the moment but that's not to say it's dead. Anything can happen in this game!"
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AC fitness: The big question
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 22, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Andy Carroll's state of health continues to monopolise pre season as more reports flow in on the issue from New Zealand. ClaretandHugh carried a story yesterday which claimed the Geordie had done just five minutes on the training pitch. Very quickly a source close to the club, and with the squad in New Zealand, claimed there was no injury, that he trained fully on Sunday and was on an exercise bike in the tunnel on Monday during the training session. He added he will play in both games in New Zealand, that he was a bit behind the other squad members in terms of fitness and had his own programme. The first game comes against Wellington Phoenix tomorrow morning and the second against Sydney FC on Saturday. How much that will tell us about his state of fitness is debatable given these are, after all, friendlies. But the big question that hasn't been answered after originally being raised on Twitter by a usually reliable resource, is WHY the player is behind the others in training. Unless there has been an injury problem – and there didn't appear to be as he enjoyed the summer break amid the usual accompanying glare of publicity – it begs a few questions. I have little doubt that the No 9 will be up to speed by the time the Spurs match comes around but given his history with injuries, the club should not be surprised that questions are being asked by the fans. Andy Carroll's fitness is a major and central issue at West Ham United and hopefully at some stage we will be told why he has been on his own programme.
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Tuesday, July 22
Daily WHUFC News - 22nd July 2014
Mediawatch - 21 July
WHUFC.com
Catch up with the latest West Ham United reports in the news here
21.07.2014
Today's transfer speculation in the media concerns a player who has just
left the Hammers, with Sky Sports reporting that Charlton Athletic are
leading the chase for Stephen Henderson, after the goalkeeper called time on
his West Ham career by mutual agreement on Friday.
The Express again links West Ham with Croatian defender Ivan Strinic, with
the report claiming that a deal will be done within 48 hours after terms
were agreed with his current club Dnipro in Ukraine.
In the same paper, this report iooks at how the Hammers could buck the trend
and make football more affordable for families when they move to the Olympic
Stadium.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail reports that West Ham are fighting hard to keep
youngster Reece Oxford at the Club, in the face of interest from Manchester
United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid's breakfast TV date
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid dropped in for a breakfast TV appointment on Monday morning
21.07.2014
Winston Reid carried on the feelgood theme to West Ham United's Football
United tour of New Zealand by dropping in for a for a chat on the country's
most popular breakfast programme on Monday. The All Whites captain had an
early start to get to the studios ahead of his 8.15am appearance (9.15pm
Sunday in the UK) on the One News Breakfast sofa. Reid was in a bright and
cheery mood, however, as he explained how excited the squad were to be
visiting his homeland. "If you told me four years ago that this tour would
be happening I probably wouldn't have believed you but things have panned
out pretty well with my team and we're enjoying ourselves here," said the
No2. "For me personally, coning home and seeing my family is good, but we're
in the middle of pre-season so we need to put some hard work into it. It's
also good for New Zealand as a country to be able to come out and see two
quality games. "My team-mates are enjoying it. It's a different culture and
everyone in New Zealand has been friendly and welcoming. We have to put the
hard yards in and we have to do our work down here but we've got time
outside the pitch to enjoy ourselves."
Reid's ankle injury last season not only meant he missed vital games for his
Club but also the opportunity to help his country make it to the 2014 FIFA
World Cup finals in Brazil. The All Whites lost a two-legged Play-Off with
Mexico 9-3 on aggregate last November and the Hammers' No2 is determined to
get over that disappointment by helping his country qualify for Russia 2018.
"The most frustrating part about watching the World Cup over the summer was
thinking back to when I was injured in November and I couldn't be a part of
that. But I watched the World Cup as a fan and I loved every moment. "We
will be looking to qualify for that World Cup in 2018 but we've got a lot of
hard work ahead of us."
The central defender capped off a busy morning by inviting children from his
old school to join in a special coaching session after training. A group of
youngsters from Milford School had a great kickabout on the pitch at the
North Harbour Stadium, and Reid said it was important to offer something in
return for the hospitality the squad have been afforded thus far. "It's
about reaching out to the public and trying to give something back to the
kids and trying to encourage them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers launch goalkeeper bid
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are keen on signing Southend United's highly-rated young
goalkeeper Daniel Bentley. Basildon-born Bentley is considered to be one of
the hottest prospects in the lower leagues and KUMB has learned that West
Ham have approached the Shrimpers with view to signing the 21-year-old
goalkeeper on a permanent basis. The 6ft 4in stopper has been strongly
linked with Leeds United in recent months but West Ham are understood to
have made contact over the weekend, having parted company with previous
third-choice 'keeper Stephen Henderson who signed a three-year contract with
Charlton Athletic earlier today. Bentley made his first team debut for
Southend in 2011 but had to wait until the following season before becoming
a first team regular. Last season he made 53 appearances for the Blues,
keeping an impressive 19 clean sheets.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: the spending's (nearly) over
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Co-owner David Gold has told supporters that West Ham are unlikely to spend
any more money on transfer fees this summer. Gold, quizzed by supporters on
Twitter this morning over the potential for further arrivals at the club
admitted that he and co-owner David Sullivan were unlikely to sanction any
more moves for players commanding a transfer fee before the end of the
summer transfer window. However that doesn't mean that fans should expect no
more new faces, with Gold informing one fan this morning that any new
signings are likely to be "loans or loans with a view to buy."
The 77-year-old Chairman also revealed that the club are expecting a final
decision regarding the work permit application for £12million forward Enner
Valencia "within the next 10 days".
West Ham have committed to circa £23million in transfer fees this summer,
with Aaron Cresswell (£4m), Cheikhou Kouyate (£7m) and Enner Valencia (£12m)
all requiring sizeable investment. Gold is currently in New Zealand with the
first team squad, who are preparing for their first fixture of the Football
United tour, which takes place against Wellington Phoenix this Wednesday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid wants a good start
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham arrived in New Zealand over the weekend in preparation for the
Football United tour, in which Sam Allardyce's side will face Wellington
Phoenix and Sydney FC later this week. And naturally perhaps, New Zealander
Reid is the man everyone wants to speak to (despite he and his family having
left the country when he was just 10 years old). This morning the central
defender appeared on the country's One News breakfast show to speak about
the tour, which also involves fellow Premier League side Newcastle United.
"First and foremost we are in pre-season and we have to put the high yards
in and we have to do our work down here," he said. "But we've got time
outside the pitch to enjoy ourselves as well. "They [the players] are
enjoying themselves. It's a different culture and everyone in New Zealanad
has been friendly and welcoming."
With view to the forthcoming 2014/15 Premier League campaign, he added: "We
finished 13th last season and tenth the year before than, so we want to
improve on that. But, the league is tough there. We'll try and get off to a
good start and see how it goes. However One News anchor Rawdon Christie
failed to ask Reid the one question most Hammers wanted answered - that
being, "will you sign a new contract at West Ham?" West Ham face Wellington
Phoenix on Wednesday in their first fixture of the Football United tour.
Full details of how you may watch the match live will follow on KUMB soon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New deal for Hendo
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Stephen Henderson has signed for Charlton Athletic after being released by
West Ham. The 26-year-old goalkeeper has signed a three year contract with
the Addicks - just 72 hours after West Ham confirmed that he was being
released, after the two parties reached a mutual agreement over the
termination of his contract. "I'm very excited and can't wait to get
started," Henderson told Charlton's website. "I'm delighted to get it done.
It was a pretty sharp move and I'm very happy to be here." The Hammers
confirmed Henderson's departure on Friday with a brief statement, which read
simply: "West Ham United can confirm that the Club and Stephen Henderson
have reached a mutual agreement to terminate the goalkeeper's contract and
registration with immediate effect." Henderson becomes the Championship
club's eighth signing of pre-season - one of which was another former
Hammer, 32-year-old Israeli defender Tal Ben Haim. He made just two starts
for West Ham in his two years at the club. Fellow Championship clubs
Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town were also reported to be interested in
signing the Dublin-born stopper.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Andy Carroll tipped to come good by David Sullivan
Last Updated: 21/07/14 10:12am
SSN
West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan says he is glad that Andy Carroll
has not been playing for England this summer as it means he will be in
better shape to show his true form this season. Carroll was sidelined with
an injury for the first half of last term and did not return to action until
January. He played well at times for West Ham after his comeback but managed
just two goals in 16 appearances and Sullivan thinks he can have few
complaints about being left out of Roy Hodgson's World Cup squad. Sullivan
reckons it will be a different story this season, though, and has backed
Carroll to make a big impact in the Premier League if he can stay fit. "Andy
will come good. He didn't have a pre-season last year," Sullivan told the
Daily Mirror. "He never really got his act together because of that and I
think you'll see a much better player next season. "It was a fair decision
to leave Carroll out of the England squad based on what he did last season.
"He didn't do enough when he came back. There were a few games he was
devastating in. Against Swansea he set up both of Kevin Nolan's goals. But
he knows he didn't do enough to play for England. "And I'm glad he is not
playing for England. I don't want him arriving three weeks late because he
has been in Rio all summer. But his time will come."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
NEW ZEALAND REPORT: A GOOD DAY SPOILT BY RAIN
By Iain Dale 21 Jul 2014 at 12:45
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Kiwi Hammer
Today was my first experience of a West Ham training session and apart from
Auckland's fickle weather that completely ruined it for my girls, it was a
"good watch". Overcast and cold, the players emerged from the tunnel adormed
with beanies and as much clothing as movement would allow. Winston was one
of the few to show any skin at all ….. a couple of inches between the bottom
of his shorts and top of his socks ….. think being a Kiwi he felt obliged!
A light jog, some stretches and then a decent warmup and, well, that was
Andy Carroll's day done! No sign of injury but clearly no intention of
training either!
The players then split into groups at either end of the pitch, the first
running a drill with 5 attacking players working against the centre backs
(Ginge & Winston) and a keeper the other 6 attacking players against a
keeper, back 4 and a holding midfielder. The players rotated between the 2
different drills. Looked to be a pretty decent tempo and both very much
looking to utilise wide players delivering from wide positions. The new boys
were tidy on the ball and appeared eager to impress.
Training finished with a full field 11 v 11 ….. Adrian, Reid, Ginge
Cresswell, an academy player at right back, Nobes, Diame, Kouyate, Jarvis,
Zarate in the middle Cole up front making up one team. No goals were scored,
nor many shots on target but controversially (I kid you not) Big Sam awared
a penalty against Ginge which Adrian saved brilliantly to his left off Vaz
Te. Fair to say Ginge was furious and Nobes and Reid very vocal in their
disagreement with Sam's call!
All was being overseen by Mr Gold who sat with the fans in the stands and
was very approachable. Sadly the "occasion" was ruined by heavy rain. A
deluge 15 minutes from the end of training meant the players understandably
didnt hang around after, rushing to the changing rooms to get dry and warm
and then after a few had returned another heavy shower sent them packing and
onto the bus back to the Hotel. Very disappointing for the many kids that
were there but equally understandable so no complaints.
So somewhat bizarrely the two photos I got of the girls were with Sam and
David Gold ….. at least they knew who both were. I dare say they would have
been the only children there that did. A number of the players did return
and have a kick around in some children's games …. But due to the rain there
was no chance for photos or autographs.
Training again tomorrow …. can't sneak the girls off school again but will
head along myself and see if the drills and combinations change.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
ANDY CARROLL IS NOT GOING ANYWHERE
By Sean Whetstone 21 Jul 2014 at 08:37
West Ham Till I Die
The ridiculous story in the Sunday People that Newcastle are preparing a bid
for Andy Carroll doesn't make sense on so many levels. It started as a
rumour on social media with an alleged text from a Newcastle lawyer
displayed on twitter talking about £10.5m bid. This seems to have been
exaggerated by the time it made the tabloid press.
These are my reasons why Andy Carroll is going nowhere!
1) Mike Ashley has set a wage cap of £60,000 per week so I would surprised
if they are prepared to break this salary cap or Andy to take a drop in
wages.
2) Newcastle have spent the majority of their transfer budget this summer so
I can't see Mike Ashley funding another £15m plus.
3) Andy Carroll has just bought a new house in Chigwell with his Essex
girlfriend Billi Mucklow.
4) He wouldn't want to leave his best mate Kevin Nolan behind unless he came
back to Newcastle too.
5) The deal won't happen until Mark Curtis wants it to happen.
6) The board have no intention of selling him, especially on the cheap as
Newcastle would want.
David Gold was asked by a Newcastle fan in New Zealand over the weekend
about the rumour and whether we would sell Carroll. Gold laughed and
answered: "£100m wouldn't be enough!"
Love him or loathe him Andy Carroll is here to stay for now.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG: "We're not done yet"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold insists that the Hammers aren't yet finished in the transfer
market as the club continues with one of its busiest summers of recent
years. DG and co owner David Sullivan have said since the start of the
summer that the plan this year is to put the pressure on all positions. And
he told ClaretandHugh exclusively: "Nothing has changed – everybody is
working very hard to bring in more players. "The main objective was always
another striker and we have pushed the boat out for Enner Valencia so there
can be no complaints on that score. "The other three signings have also been
very good but we would hope that more are on the way. "The plan this summer
was always to carry as many positions as possible but we have also managed a
marquee signing along the way so no complaints so far." Indeed not, for a
ClaretandHugh exclsuive poll last week showed that over 90 per cent of those
who voted are more than content with what they have seen." Gold said that
with the main signings on board the remainder would be loans and cheaper
options – as revealed by ClaretandHugh.
Currently on tour with the Hammers squad in New Zealand Gold has been
tweeting regularly but added in an exclusive interview with us said: "I
believe we have had a very good summer window. "We are starting to see a
squad develop with real depth but there's still a way to go. We aren't done
yet!" The work permit hearing for Valencia will be held when the squad
return from New Zealand with Sam Allardyce pleadting the club's case.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll trains …for just five minutes!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The absence of our record signing and top earner Andy Carroll from the first
two pre-season friendlies has not gone unnoticed by Hammers fans. Although
the the 25 year striker took part in the training camp at Evian, rumours
persist about his general fitness levels and a possible return of an
injury. West Ham's official twitter has made a point to publish photos of
Andy Carroll together with his mate Kevin Nolan boarding the flight at
Heathrow airport last Thursday suggesting he will take part in the pre
season friendlies in New Zealand. However, Hammers fans out in New Zealand
have raised alarm bells by saying Andy Carroll could manage just five
minutes of training at the open training session today at North Harbour
Stadium, Auckland before returning down the tunnel.
If his lack of fitness and/or injury is true lets hope he gets fit very soon
in the run up to the start of our season to repay some of the £15m record
transfer fee and £4m in wages he has earned since becoming a permanent West
Ham player. At 2 goals from 15 appearances last season that is £9.5m per
goal so far or £1.2m per appearance.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Will West Ham's new £12m signing make or break Andy Carroll?
Vincent Ralph
HITC
Following West Ham United's £12million move for Ecuador striker Enner
Valencia, the name of Andy Carroll was consistently mentioned when
discussing the new arrival. Some said the Hammers' latest transfer would be
the wake-up call Carroll needed to show what he can do consistently at the
club. While others said Valencia's presence meant the former Newcastle
United man was surplus to requirements. Indeed, the Magpies were even linked
with a move to bring Carroll back to St James' Park; something that has
since been dismissed by the Chronicle, which claimed the player is settled
in London. If that is indeed the case, will Valencia's arrival prompt the
England international into action, or see him used more as an impact
substitute come the new campaign? Carroll himself has said that he wants to
use this summer to ensure his woes of last season are not repeated. "It's a
very important pre-season for me after I had a very bad season last year
with injuries," he said. "It's important I stay fit and do everything right
with the medical staff." But even when fit, he has still fallen short of the
performances he showed to great effect at Newcastle. SEE ALSO: 41 goals, 23
assists, one title: What West Ham bought for £12m With just nine goals in 40
appearances for West Ham, it is no surprise some fans are questioning just
how much he will be used now Valencia has arrived; especially when you
consider the Ecuador international scored 18 times in just 23 appearances
for Pachuca last season. So what is it to be? Will Carroll and Valencia
ultimately form an effective partnership for the Hammers, or will the former
be relegated to a bit-part role at best come August?
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Croatia defender Ivan Strinic 'set for West Ham United medical' after
agreeing personal terms
Monday 21 Jul 2014 3:59 pm
Metro.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is looking to continue his summer spending with
the signing of Croatian international defender Ivan Strinic from Dnipro
Dnipropetrovsk, according to reports from Croatia. Strinic will be the
Hammers' sixth summer signing, alongside Mauro Zarate, Cheikhou Kouyate,
Aaron Cresswell, Diego Poyet and Enner Valencia (pending a successful work
permit hearing), and will compete with Aaron Cresswell for the left-back
spot in the starting line up. The online edition of Croatian newspaper
Vecernji List are claiming that the 27-year-old defender expected in London
to undergo a medical with West Ham, having already agreed personal terms,
with the £4m signing to be announced in the next 48 hours. Capped 32 times
by his national side, Strinic brings experience on both the European and
International stage with Dnipro and Croatia respectively, which will not
only give the recently signed Cresswell some stiff competition, but also
give him some tutelage at the position. Sky Sports had claimed several days
ago that West Ham's pursuit of Strinic was getting ever closer, and it now
seems the Croat will be the latest addition at Upton Park. Should this deal
fall through, and you never know with West Ham, other targets have been
reportedly lined up for a similar fee. The Daily Star are reporting that
Malaga left-back Vitorino Antunes is also on the Hammers' radar, with a loan
move for the Portuguese defender being considered with a view to a £4m
permanent transfer next summer.
Depth has been the buzzword for West Ham's summer thus far. With a host of
squad players such as Jack Collison, Joe Cole, George McCartney and Alou
Diarra as well as the trio of Serie A loanees – Pablo Armero, Antonio
Nocerino and Marco Borriello all departing the club this summer, West Ham
are in need of depth across the board. Having made a big splash this summer
on marquee signings Valencia and Kouyate, the ideal way to fill out the rest
of the squad is through low-cost deals or loan signings, stop gaps until the
next window when funding is there. With Allardyce still looking for a
winger, central midfielder, left-back and left-sided centre back this
summer, it's logical to believe that a number of these positions will be
filled by loan signings. One of them loan signings could well be Inter Milan
midfielder Saphir Taider. The 22-year old Algerian is looking to leave Italy
to play in the Premier League, and it's believed that talks over a
season-long loan move are at an advanced stage. The Hammers have also been
linked with loan swoops for Manchester United duo Wilfried Zaha and Ashley
Young, although, Premier League loan restrictions mean they can only sign
one of these wingers on loan.
With the bulk of our spending done for the window, expect a flurry of loan
signings to end the summer on a high.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester United Target West Ham Teenage Wonderkid Reece Oxford
Lewis Dean By Lewis Dean
July 21, 2014 14:09 BST
IBTimes.co.uk
Manchester United have entered the race to sign West Ham wonderkid Reece
Oxford as the Hammers look to tie down the prospect to a long-term deal.
West Ham want 15-year-old Oxford to commit his long-term future to the east
London club and could promote him from the youth ranks to keep the defender
happy while staving off interest from United, Chelsea and Arsenal. United
are thought to be leading the chase to capture Oxford should he decide to
leave Upton Park but the England Under-16 international is expected to be
offered the privilege of training with the club's first-team more regularly,
Co-owner David Sullivan has spoken of the club's desire to keep Oxford on
its books and condemned England's top teams for continually poaching the
lesser clubs' best talent, reported the Daily Mail. "It almost makes you
give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best
15-year-old. What's the point?," Sullivan said.
Oxford recently featured in a West Ham development squad's 0-0 draw with
Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk and is expected to feature again when
the side plays semi-pro outfit Sutton United.
'Next Bale'
The news of United's pursuit of Oxford comes as the Old Trafford club gives
a trial to 16-year-old wideman Oscar Borg, touted as the 'next Gareth Bale'.
United would have to part with £220,000 for the teenager, who the Express
reports is nicknamed "Gareth" by West Ham coaches for his similar style of
play to the Real Madrid star. United's interest could push West Ham into
signing the teenager on a contract to avoid him leaving the club for free.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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WHUFC.com
Catch up with the latest West Ham United reports in the news here
21.07.2014
Today's transfer speculation in the media concerns a player who has just
left the Hammers, with Sky Sports reporting that Charlton Athletic are
leading the chase for Stephen Henderson, after the goalkeeper called time on
his West Ham career by mutual agreement on Friday.
The Express again links West Ham with Croatian defender Ivan Strinic, with
the report claiming that a deal will be done within 48 hours after terms
were agreed with his current club Dnipro in Ukraine.
In the same paper, this report iooks at how the Hammers could buck the trend
and make football more affordable for families when they move to the Olympic
Stadium.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail reports that West Ham are fighting hard to keep
youngster Reece Oxford at the Club, in the face of interest from Manchester
United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid's breakfast TV date
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid dropped in for a breakfast TV appointment on Monday morning
21.07.2014
Winston Reid carried on the feelgood theme to West Ham United's Football
United tour of New Zealand by dropping in for a for a chat on the country's
most popular breakfast programme on Monday. The All Whites captain had an
early start to get to the studios ahead of his 8.15am appearance (9.15pm
Sunday in the UK) on the One News Breakfast sofa. Reid was in a bright and
cheery mood, however, as he explained how excited the squad were to be
visiting his homeland. "If you told me four years ago that this tour would
be happening I probably wouldn't have believed you but things have panned
out pretty well with my team and we're enjoying ourselves here," said the
No2. "For me personally, coning home and seeing my family is good, but we're
in the middle of pre-season so we need to put some hard work into it. It's
also good for New Zealand as a country to be able to come out and see two
quality games. "My team-mates are enjoying it. It's a different culture and
everyone in New Zealand has been friendly and welcoming. We have to put the
hard yards in and we have to do our work down here but we've got time
outside the pitch to enjoy ourselves."
Reid's ankle injury last season not only meant he missed vital games for his
Club but also the opportunity to help his country make it to the 2014 FIFA
World Cup finals in Brazil. The All Whites lost a two-legged Play-Off with
Mexico 9-3 on aggregate last November and the Hammers' No2 is determined to
get over that disappointment by helping his country qualify for Russia 2018.
"The most frustrating part about watching the World Cup over the summer was
thinking back to when I was injured in November and I couldn't be a part of
that. But I watched the World Cup as a fan and I loved every moment. "We
will be looking to qualify for that World Cup in 2018 but we've got a lot of
hard work ahead of us."
The central defender capped off a busy morning by inviting children from his
old school to join in a special coaching session after training. A group of
youngsters from Milford School had a great kickabout on the pitch at the
North Harbour Stadium, and Reid said it was important to offer something in
return for the hospitality the squad have been afforded thus far. "It's
about reaching out to the public and trying to give something back to the
kids and trying to encourage them."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers launch goalkeeper bid
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are keen on signing Southend United's highly-rated young
goalkeeper Daniel Bentley. Basildon-born Bentley is considered to be one of
the hottest prospects in the lower leagues and KUMB has learned that West
Ham have approached the Shrimpers with view to signing the 21-year-old
goalkeeper on a permanent basis. The 6ft 4in stopper has been strongly
linked with Leeds United in recent months but West Ham are understood to
have made contact over the weekend, having parted company with previous
third-choice 'keeper Stephen Henderson who signed a three-year contract with
Charlton Athletic earlier today. Bentley made his first team debut for
Southend in 2011 but had to wait until the following season before becoming
a first team regular. Last season he made 53 appearances for the Blues,
keeping an impressive 19 clean sheets.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Gold: the spending's (nearly) over
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Co-owner David Gold has told supporters that West Ham are unlikely to spend
any more money on transfer fees this summer. Gold, quizzed by supporters on
Twitter this morning over the potential for further arrivals at the club
admitted that he and co-owner David Sullivan were unlikely to sanction any
more moves for players commanding a transfer fee before the end of the
summer transfer window. However that doesn't mean that fans should expect no
more new faces, with Gold informing one fan this morning that any new
signings are likely to be "loans or loans with a view to buy."
The 77-year-old Chairman also revealed that the club are expecting a final
decision regarding the work permit application for £12million forward Enner
Valencia "within the next 10 days".
West Ham have committed to circa £23million in transfer fees this summer,
with Aaron Cresswell (£4m), Cheikhou Kouyate (£7m) and Enner Valencia (£12m)
all requiring sizeable investment. Gold is currently in New Zealand with the
first team squad, who are preparing for their first fixture of the Football
United tour, which takes place against Wellington Phoenix this Wednesday.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Reid wants a good start
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham arrived in New Zealand over the weekend in preparation for the
Football United tour, in which Sam Allardyce's side will face Wellington
Phoenix and Sydney FC later this week. And naturally perhaps, New Zealander
Reid is the man everyone wants to speak to (despite he and his family having
left the country when he was just 10 years old). This morning the central
defender appeared on the country's One News breakfast show to speak about
the tour, which also involves fellow Premier League side Newcastle United.
"First and foremost we are in pre-season and we have to put the high yards
in and we have to do our work down here," he said. "But we've got time
outside the pitch to enjoy ourselves as well. "They [the players] are
enjoying themselves. It's a different culture and everyone in New Zealanad
has been friendly and welcoming."
With view to the forthcoming 2014/15 Premier League campaign, he added: "We
finished 13th last season and tenth the year before than, so we want to
improve on that. But, the league is tough there. We'll try and get off to a
good start and see how it goes. However One News anchor Rawdon Christie
failed to ask Reid the one question most Hammers wanted answered - that
being, "will you sign a new contract at West Ham?" West Ham face Wellington
Phoenix on Wednesday in their first fixture of the Football United tour.
Full details of how you may watch the match live will follow on KUMB soon.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
New deal for Hendo
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 21st July 2014
By: Staff Writer
Stephen Henderson has signed for Charlton Athletic after being released by
West Ham. The 26-year-old goalkeeper has signed a three year contract with
the Addicks - just 72 hours after West Ham confirmed that he was being
released, after the two parties reached a mutual agreement over the
termination of his contract. "I'm very excited and can't wait to get
started," Henderson told Charlton's website. "I'm delighted to get it done.
It was a pretty sharp move and I'm very happy to be here." The Hammers
confirmed Henderson's departure on Friday with a brief statement, which read
simply: "West Ham United can confirm that the Club and Stephen Henderson
have reached a mutual agreement to terminate the goalkeeper's contract and
registration with immediate effect." Henderson becomes the Championship
club's eighth signing of pre-season - one of which was another former
Hammer, 32-year-old Israeli defender Tal Ben Haim. He made just two starts
for West Ham in his two years at the club. Fellow Championship clubs
Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town were also reported to be interested in
signing the Dublin-born stopper.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Andy Carroll tipped to come good by David Sullivan
Last Updated: 21/07/14 10:12am
SSN
West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan says he is glad that Andy Carroll
has not been playing for England this summer as it means he will be in
better shape to show his true form this season. Carroll was sidelined with
an injury for the first half of last term and did not return to action until
January. He played well at times for West Ham after his comeback but managed
just two goals in 16 appearances and Sullivan thinks he can have few
complaints about being left out of Roy Hodgson's World Cup squad. Sullivan
reckons it will be a different story this season, though, and has backed
Carroll to make a big impact in the Premier League if he can stay fit. "Andy
will come good. He didn't have a pre-season last year," Sullivan told the
Daily Mirror. "He never really got his act together because of that and I
think you'll see a much better player next season. "It was a fair decision
to leave Carroll out of the England squad based on what he did last season.
"He didn't do enough when he came back. There were a few games he was
devastating in. Against Swansea he set up both of Kevin Nolan's goals. But
he knows he didn't do enough to play for England. "And I'm glad he is not
playing for England. I don't want him arriving three weeks late because he
has been in Rio all summer. But his time will come."
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NEW ZEALAND REPORT: A GOOD DAY SPOILT BY RAIN
By Iain Dale 21 Jul 2014 at 12:45
West Ham Till I Die
Guest Post by Kiwi Hammer
Today was my first experience of a West Ham training session and apart from
Auckland's fickle weather that completely ruined it for my girls, it was a
"good watch". Overcast and cold, the players emerged from the tunnel adormed
with beanies and as much clothing as movement would allow. Winston was one
of the few to show any skin at all ….. a couple of inches between the bottom
of his shorts and top of his socks ….. think being a Kiwi he felt obliged!
A light jog, some stretches and then a decent warmup and, well, that was
Andy Carroll's day done! No sign of injury but clearly no intention of
training either!
The players then split into groups at either end of the pitch, the first
running a drill with 5 attacking players working against the centre backs
(Ginge & Winston) and a keeper the other 6 attacking players against a
keeper, back 4 and a holding midfielder. The players rotated between the 2
different drills. Looked to be a pretty decent tempo and both very much
looking to utilise wide players delivering from wide positions. The new boys
were tidy on the ball and appeared eager to impress.
Training finished with a full field 11 v 11 ….. Adrian, Reid, Ginge
Cresswell, an academy player at right back, Nobes, Diame, Kouyate, Jarvis,
Zarate in the middle Cole up front making up one team. No goals were scored,
nor many shots on target but controversially (I kid you not) Big Sam awared
a penalty against Ginge which Adrian saved brilliantly to his left off Vaz
Te. Fair to say Ginge was furious and Nobes and Reid very vocal in their
disagreement with Sam's call!
All was being overseen by Mr Gold who sat with the fans in the stands and
was very approachable. Sadly the "occasion" was ruined by heavy rain. A
deluge 15 minutes from the end of training meant the players understandably
didnt hang around after, rushing to the changing rooms to get dry and warm
and then after a few had returned another heavy shower sent them packing and
onto the bus back to the Hotel. Very disappointing for the many kids that
were there but equally understandable so no complaints.
So somewhat bizarrely the two photos I got of the girls were with Sam and
David Gold ….. at least they knew who both were. I dare say they would have
been the only children there that did. A number of the players did return
and have a kick around in some children's games …. But due to the rain there
was no chance for photos or autographs.
Training again tomorrow …. can't sneak the girls off school again but will
head along myself and see if the drills and combinations change.
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ANDY CARROLL IS NOT GOING ANYWHERE
By Sean Whetstone 21 Jul 2014 at 08:37
West Ham Till I Die
The ridiculous story in the Sunday People that Newcastle are preparing a bid
for Andy Carroll doesn't make sense on so many levels. It started as a
rumour on social media with an alleged text from a Newcastle lawyer
displayed on twitter talking about £10.5m bid. This seems to have been
exaggerated by the time it made the tabloid press.
These are my reasons why Andy Carroll is going nowhere!
1) Mike Ashley has set a wage cap of £60,000 per week so I would surprised
if they are prepared to break this salary cap or Andy to take a drop in
wages.
2) Newcastle have spent the majority of their transfer budget this summer so
I can't see Mike Ashley funding another £15m plus.
3) Andy Carroll has just bought a new house in Chigwell with his Essex
girlfriend Billi Mucklow.
4) He wouldn't want to leave his best mate Kevin Nolan behind unless he came
back to Newcastle too.
5) The deal won't happen until Mark Curtis wants it to happen.
6) The board have no intention of selling him, especially on the cheap as
Newcastle would want.
David Gold was asked by a Newcastle fan in New Zealand over the weekend
about the rumour and whether we would sell Carroll. Gold laughed and
answered: "£100m wouldn't be enough!"
Love him or loathe him Andy Carroll is here to stay for now.
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DG: "We're not done yet"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold insists that the Hammers aren't yet finished in the transfer
market as the club continues with one of its busiest summers of recent
years. DG and co owner David Sullivan have said since the start of the
summer that the plan this year is to put the pressure on all positions. And
he told ClaretandHugh exclusively: "Nothing has changed – everybody is
working very hard to bring in more players. "The main objective was always
another striker and we have pushed the boat out for Enner Valencia so there
can be no complaints on that score. "The other three signings have also been
very good but we would hope that more are on the way. "The plan this summer
was always to carry as many positions as possible but we have also managed a
marquee signing along the way so no complaints so far." Indeed not, for a
ClaretandHugh exclsuive poll last week showed that over 90 per cent of those
who voted are more than content with what they have seen." Gold said that
with the main signings on board the remainder would be loans and cheaper
options – as revealed by ClaretandHugh.
Currently on tour with the Hammers squad in New Zealand Gold has been
tweeting regularly but added in an exclusive interview with us said: "I
believe we have had a very good summer window. "We are starting to see a
squad develop with real depth but there's still a way to go. We aren't done
yet!" The work permit hearing for Valencia will be held when the squad
return from New Zealand with Sam Allardyce pleadting the club's case.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carroll trains …for just five minutes!
Posted by Sean Whetstone on July 21, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The absence of our record signing and top earner Andy Carroll from the first
two pre-season friendlies has not gone unnoticed by Hammers fans. Although
the the 25 year striker took part in the training camp at Evian, rumours
persist about his general fitness levels and a possible return of an
injury. West Ham's official twitter has made a point to publish photos of
Andy Carroll together with his mate Kevin Nolan boarding the flight at
Heathrow airport last Thursday suggesting he will take part in the pre
season friendlies in New Zealand. However, Hammers fans out in New Zealand
have raised alarm bells by saying Andy Carroll could manage just five
minutes of training at the open training session today at North Harbour
Stadium, Auckland before returning down the tunnel.
If his lack of fitness and/or injury is true lets hope he gets fit very soon
in the run up to the start of our season to repay some of the £15m record
transfer fee and £4m in wages he has earned since becoming a permanent West
Ham player. At 2 goals from 15 appearances last season that is £9.5m per
goal so far or £1.2m per appearance.
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Will West Ham's new £12m signing make or break Andy Carroll?
Vincent Ralph
HITC
Following West Ham United's £12million move for Ecuador striker Enner
Valencia, the name of Andy Carroll was consistently mentioned when
discussing the new arrival. Some said the Hammers' latest transfer would be
the wake-up call Carroll needed to show what he can do consistently at the
club. While others said Valencia's presence meant the former Newcastle
United man was surplus to requirements. Indeed, the Magpies were even linked
with a move to bring Carroll back to St James' Park; something that has
since been dismissed by the Chronicle, which claimed the player is settled
in London. If that is indeed the case, will Valencia's arrival prompt the
England international into action, or see him used more as an impact
substitute come the new campaign? Carroll himself has said that he wants to
use this summer to ensure his woes of last season are not repeated. "It's a
very important pre-season for me after I had a very bad season last year
with injuries," he said. "It's important I stay fit and do everything right
with the medical staff." But even when fit, he has still fallen short of the
performances he showed to great effect at Newcastle. SEE ALSO: 41 goals, 23
assists, one title: What West Ham bought for £12m With just nine goals in 40
appearances for West Ham, it is no surprise some fans are questioning just
how much he will be used now Valencia has arrived; especially when you
consider the Ecuador international scored 18 times in just 23 appearances
for Pachuca last season. So what is it to be? Will Carroll and Valencia
ultimately form an effective partnership for the Hammers, or will the former
be relegated to a bit-part role at best come August?
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Croatia defender Ivan Strinic 'set for West Ham United medical' after
agreeing personal terms
Monday 21 Jul 2014 3:59 pm
Metro.co.uk
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is looking to continue his summer spending with
the signing of Croatian international defender Ivan Strinic from Dnipro
Dnipropetrovsk, according to reports from Croatia. Strinic will be the
Hammers' sixth summer signing, alongside Mauro Zarate, Cheikhou Kouyate,
Aaron Cresswell, Diego Poyet and Enner Valencia (pending a successful work
permit hearing), and will compete with Aaron Cresswell for the left-back
spot in the starting line up. The online edition of Croatian newspaper
Vecernji List are claiming that the 27-year-old defender expected in London
to undergo a medical with West Ham, having already agreed personal terms,
with the £4m signing to be announced in the next 48 hours. Capped 32 times
by his national side, Strinic brings experience on both the European and
International stage with Dnipro and Croatia respectively, which will not
only give the recently signed Cresswell some stiff competition, but also
give him some tutelage at the position. Sky Sports had claimed several days
ago that West Ham's pursuit of Strinic was getting ever closer, and it now
seems the Croat will be the latest addition at Upton Park. Should this deal
fall through, and you never know with West Ham, other targets have been
reportedly lined up for a similar fee. The Daily Star are reporting that
Malaga left-back Vitorino Antunes is also on the Hammers' radar, with a loan
move for the Portuguese defender being considered with a view to a £4m
permanent transfer next summer.
Depth has been the buzzword for West Ham's summer thus far. With a host of
squad players such as Jack Collison, Joe Cole, George McCartney and Alou
Diarra as well as the trio of Serie A loanees – Pablo Armero, Antonio
Nocerino and Marco Borriello all departing the club this summer, West Ham
are in need of depth across the board. Having made a big splash this summer
on marquee signings Valencia and Kouyate, the ideal way to fill out the rest
of the squad is through low-cost deals or loan signings, stop gaps until the
next window when funding is there. With Allardyce still looking for a
winger, central midfielder, left-back and left-sided centre back this
summer, it's logical to believe that a number of these positions will be
filled by loan signings. One of them loan signings could well be Inter Milan
midfielder Saphir Taider. The 22-year old Algerian is looking to leave Italy
to play in the Premier League, and it's believed that talks over a
season-long loan move are at an advanced stage. The Hammers have also been
linked with loan swoops for Manchester United duo Wilfried Zaha and Ashley
Young, although, Premier League loan restrictions mean they can only sign
one of these wingers on loan.
With the bulk of our spending done for the window, expect a flurry of loan
signings to end the summer on a high.
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Manchester United Target West Ham Teenage Wonderkid Reece Oxford
Lewis Dean By Lewis Dean
July 21, 2014 14:09 BST
IBTimes.co.uk
Manchester United have entered the race to sign West Ham wonderkid Reece
Oxford as the Hammers look to tie down the prospect to a long-term deal.
West Ham want 15-year-old Oxford to commit his long-term future to the east
London club and could promote him from the youth ranks to keep the defender
happy while staving off interest from United, Chelsea and Arsenal. United
are thought to be leading the chase to capture Oxford should he decide to
leave Upton Park but the England Under-16 international is expected to be
offered the privilege of training with the club's first-team more regularly,
Co-owner David Sullivan has spoken of the club's desire to keep Oxford on
its books and condemned England's top teams for continually poaching the
lesser clubs' best talent, reported the Daily Mail. "It almost makes you
give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best
15-year-old. What's the point?," Sullivan said.
Oxford recently featured in a West Ham development squad's 0-0 draw with
Ukrainian champions Shakhtar Donetsk and is expected to feature again when
the side plays semi-pro outfit Sutton United.
'Next Bale'
The news of United's pursuit of Oxford comes as the Old Trafford club gives
a trial to 16-year-old wideman Oscar Borg, touted as the 'next Gareth Bale'.
United would have to part with £220,000 for the teenager, who the Express
reports is nicknamed "Gareth" by West Ham coaches for his similar style of
play to the Real Madrid star. United's interest could push West Ham into
signing the teenager on a contract to avoid him leaving the club for free.
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Monday, July 21
Daily WHUFC News - 21st July 2014 ( Missed this today )
West Ham look to buck trend as Bayern chief slams Premier League ticket prices
Daily Express
WEST HAM have hinted they could buck the trend set by the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool and offer season tickets for as little as £100 when they move to the Olympic Stadium.
By: Ben Jefferson
Published: Sun, July 20, 2014
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness today accused Premier League clubs of 'milking their fans like cows' by demanding exorbitant amounts for season tickets.
Explaining the move to keep season tickets prices down, Hoeness reportedly said: "We could charge more than €130 (£104). Let's say we charged €380 (£300). We'd get €2.5m (£2m) more in income, but what's €2.5m to us? "In a transfer discussion you argue about the sum for five minutes. But the difference between €130 and €380 is huge for the fans. "We do not think fans are like cows, who you milk. Football has got to be for everybody."That's the biggest difference between us and England."
Arsenal's cheapest season ticket for the upcoming season costs £985 (with the most expensive at £1,955), Liverpool's cost £710 and Chelsea's cost £595.
But Jack Sullivan - son of West Ham co-owner David Sullivan - has hinted that West Ham hope to offer substantially cheaper season tickets when they move to the Olympic Stadium in 2016.
Retweeting Hoeness' comments, Sullivan said: "That's the hope at the OS [Olympic Stadium] give family's affordable football. Cheap ST [season tickets]."
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Daily Express
WEST HAM have hinted they could buck the trend set by the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool and offer season tickets for as little as £100 when they move to the Olympic Stadium.
By: Ben Jefferson
Published: Sun, July 20, 2014
Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness today accused Premier League clubs of 'milking their fans like cows' by demanding exorbitant amounts for season tickets.
Explaining the move to keep season tickets prices down, Hoeness reportedly said: "We could charge more than €130 (£104). Let's say we charged €380 (£300). We'd get €2.5m (£2m) more in income, but what's €2.5m to us? "In a transfer discussion you argue about the sum for five minutes. But the difference between €130 and €380 is huge for the fans. "We do not think fans are like cows, who you milk. Football has got to be for everybody."That's the biggest difference between us and England."
Arsenal's cheapest season ticket for the upcoming season costs £985 (with the most expensive at £1,955), Liverpool's cost £710 and Chelsea's cost £595.
But Jack Sullivan - son of West Ham co-owner David Sullivan - has hinted that West Ham hope to offer substantially cheaper season tickets when they move to the Olympic Stadium in 2016.
Retweeting Hoeness' comments, Sullivan said: "That's the hope at the OS [Olympic Stadium] give family's affordable football. Cheap ST [season tickets]."
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Daily WHUFC News - 21st July 2014
Sadlier grateful for European challenges
WHUFC.com
Kieran Sadlier says facing top-class continental opposition this weekend can
only be of benefit
20.07.2014
Kieran Sadlier is looking for more of the same from the Development Squad
when they tackle their second game in 24 hours against Espanyol on Sunday
afternoon. Following Saturday's 0-0 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk to open the
Absolute Sports Travel Cup at Cambridge United's R Costings Abbey Stadium,
Sadlier hopes to end on a high against the Spanish side. All that was
missing from the Shakhtar contest was a Hammers goal, with Sadlier's shot
against the crossbar the closest that either team came, and the 19-year-old
is happy with how his pre-season is going so far. "I think everyone played
well on Saturday," he said. "I think the game was there to win, but in
pre-season it's not really about winning, it's about getting your fitness up
and getting [closer to][ how we want to play in the season. "The performance
was very good from every single player. The game was quite even and it was
similar to a U21 league match - they were a good team of a similar age to
us. We had some good chances and I think overall everyone got what they
wanted out of the game. "When I hit the bar I saw the keeper off his line
before I brought it down, so I thought I'd have a go and it was a bit
unlucky. I thought it hit the bar and went in, but it stayed out."
With Espanyol next up, Sadlier is looking forward to getting more minutes on
the pitch against a quality side. He added: "On Sunday, I think the ones who
played the last half hour will start, so it'll be the reverse of today's
team and we'll all get another good run out - hopefully we can get some
goals because that'll be good for our confidence."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers put four past Espanyol
WHUFc.com
Elliot Lee struck twice as the Development Squad saw off Espanyol 4-2 at the
R Costings Abbey Stadium
20.07.2014
Development Squad 4-2 RCD Espanyol
Absolute Sports Travel Cup
The Development Squad put four past their RCD Espanyol counterparts at
Cambridge United on Sunday, as the Hammers completed their involvement in
the Absolute Sports Travel Cup with a flourish. Following Saturday's
goalless draw against Shakhtar Donetsk, there was no shortage of goalmouth
action this time round. Paul McCallum's first-half spot-kick cancelled out
Ivan Sales' opener for the Spaniards, before Elliot Lee finished off a fine
team move to fire Nick Haycock's men in front. Once Jose Antonio Raillo had
levelled matters with another excellent strike, it was one way traffic, as
Lee nodded home his second and Josh Cullen got in on the act with a fourth.
West Ham were good value for the victory and had gone close to breaking the
deadlock in the 15th minute. Centre-half Emmanuel Onariase nodded Nathan
Mavila's free-kick back across the six-yard box, where Jamie Harney's
point-blank header was smothered by Nestor Diaz. The opener came with 27
minutes gone and, arguably, against the run of play. Pol Mikel Lirola was
afforded too much space on the right and duly picked out Sales, whose
side-footed effort bobbled into the far corner.
The Hammers, however, were only behind for a matter of seconds. Djair
Parfitt-Williams slid a neat ball into the feet of McCallum, who, with his
back to goal, was rashly upended. Referee Darren Deadman pointed to the spot
and McCallum converted in style, slotting home to the keeper's right.
Espanyol, meanwhile, might have retaken the lead in the half's final
seconds, but Tim Brown dove to his right to claw away substitute Julian
Luque's free-kick. The Spaniards had the first sight of goal after the break
too, as Luque's near-post corner fell at the feet of Hector Rodriguez, but
he blazed over the bar. Then, as they did on Saturday, West Ham shuffled the
entire pack on the hour, with Saturday's starters all joining the fray. And
it had the desired effect, with the Hammers netting three times in the
following 12 minutes. Lee, fresh from a late double at Havant and
Waterlooville, began the goal flurry, collecting from Sebastian Lletget
before unleashing a delightful curler into the far corner. As West Ham had
done earlier in the piece, Espanyol responded in kind, squaring things up
with 66 minutes gone. The ball was teed up for Raillo on the edge of the
box, who clinically slammed beyond Brown. But back came West Ham, through
that man Lee again. After Sam Westley's diving header at the back post had
thudded off the bar, the prolific Lee reacted first to nod home the rebound.
And the goals kept on coming, as Cullen seized on a loose ball to see a
looping header drift beyond Diaz and nestle nicely in the opposite corner.
West Ham's fourth rounded off an excellent afternoon for Haycock's charges,
who return to action at Sutton United on Wednesday evening.
West Ham United: Brown (Boness 71), Knoyle (Westley 60), Mavila ( Page 60),
Onariase (Burke 60), Harney (Oxford 60), Makasi (Cullen (60), Nasha (Bywater
60), Trialist (Lletget 60), Parfitt-Williams (Sadlier 60), Amoo (Gordon 35),
(Turgott 60), (Pike 74), McCallum (Lee 60).
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Warm welcome for the Hammers
WHUFc.com
West Ham United's first training session in New Zealand attracted a huge
turnout on Sunday
20.07.2014
West Ham United's first Open Training session in New Zealand proved a huge
success as fans flocked to North Harbour Stadium. Supporters from all over
the world - including the Auckland-based great, great, great grandson of the
Club's founder Arnold Hills - watched the Hammers be put through their paces
before taking the opportunity to meet their heroes. While the squad went
through a series of drills, the fans showed their support by cheering loudly
and singing a stirring rendition of 'Bubbles', which was greatly appreciated
by Joint-Chairman David Gold, manager Sam Allardyce and his staff and
players. For many of the several hundred in attendance, the Open Training
session represented a unique opportunity to see a Barclays Premier League in
the flesh, while for others it formed the first part of their
once-in-a-lifetime trip to the other side of the world. Kiwi Gerald Smith
may have lived in New Zealand for his entire life, but his family history
records that he is the great, great, great grandson of the founder of the
Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company and its football team, Arnold
Hills.
"I've lived in New Zealand all my life but my parents are English and on my
mother's side, she was a Warner and one of my cousins was a director of West
Ham United until the 2000s," said Smith, who was joined at North Harbour by
wife Tresna, son Timothy and daughter Lucy. "My mother's mother was a Hills
and her grandfather was Arnold Hills, the founder of the Club and also the
founder of the Thames Ironworks. I'm definitely a fan because of my family
links, but Wednesday [versus Wellington Phoenix in Auckland] will be the
first time I've actually been to a West Ham game. "When we won the FA Cup in
1980, my cousins sent me postcards and scarves, so this is really just
re-establishing my association with the Club. The associations I've heard of
him through the family are strong. My grandmother was a vegetarian and
that's because he was a vegetarian, too. "I've visited my family in London a
few times, but I've never actually been to the West Ham stadium, so we'll
definitely all come over soon to watch a game."
Following the successful session, the squad happily signed autographs and
posed for photographs, while six players - Adrian, James Tomkins, Guy Demel,
Mo Diame, Mauro Zarate and Cheikhou Kouyate - remained on the pitch to take
part in a community football session with local youngsters. The community
session was organised by the Wellington Phoenix in partnership with their
sponsors Huawei, the Chinese networking and telecommunications company.
Huawei's director of public affairs Andrew Bowater said everyone connected
with the company in New Zealand had been looking forward to West Ham's
visit. "We've got our partnership with the Wellington Phoenix here in New
Zealand and, as part of that, we like to get our community involvement
going," he explained. "So, as soon as we heard West Ham were coming down, we
were keen to build on that connection through the games with Premier League
clubs which are going on here. "As much as possible, we try to link the
Phoenix with their fans, so the community programme is very important to us.
We want to bring fans closer to the game. "One thing about New Zealand is
that people generally think of rugby, but football is the sport most kids
play at weekends. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the
excitement around seeing the kids playing football with Premier League
players is great for us. New Zealand has strong connections with West Ham
and those will only go stronger through events like this one."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Charlton lead race for West Ham goalkeeper Stephen Henderson
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo | Last Updated: 20/07/14
10:13am
SSN
Sky Sports understands Charlton are closing in on the signing of West Ham
goalkeeper Stephen Henderson. The likes of Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town
have been linked with moves for Henderson, but Charlton are now believed to
be leading the race for the Irishman. Highly-rated Henderson has found
himself down the pecking order at West Ham, with Spanish keeper Adrian and
Jussi Jaaskelainen ahead of him in Sam Allardyce's plans. Henderson, who has
made just two appearances for West Ham, has impressed during loan stints at
Ipswich and Bournemouth during the past two seasons. Charlton are in the
market for a new keeper after seeing Ben Hamer leave for Leicester and
Henderson is thought to have emerged as their top target. Should Charlton
land Henderson his arrival will come as a boost to new boss Bob Peeters as
he continues his plans ahead of the new season.
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REID COY OVER WEST HAM FUTURE
By Sean Whetstone 20 Jul 2014 at 12:30
West Ham Till I Die
After nearly 32 hours of Travelling from London Heathrow to Auckland New
Zealand via Dubai and Sydney the last thing you probably what to do is
attend a press conference, but that was the fate for Sam Allardyce, Kevin
Nolan and Winston Reid on Saturday afternoon. When Reid was asked whether it
was good to be back home he answered: "The weather's a bit crap". When asked
if he has signed a new contract he looked uncomfortable,looked away and
muttered, "No, not yet" I am no body language expert but it was really a
question he didn't want asked and didn't want to answer. Sam Allardyce had
no such issues explaining why he wants to keep Reid. "Today there's pretty
much a shortage of anybody who plays in a central defensive role that
actually commits to the defensive part of his game first," Joint Chairman
David Gold added: "Sure he'd like to play for Barcelona and so would all the
rest of the footballers in the world, or Manchester United, but we're very
hopeful that Winston Reid will be a West Ham player for years to come," Reid
is thought to have been offered a £60,000 per week deal to sign a new 5 year
contract. It is understand he has until he returns back to the UK to make up
his mind.
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West Ham chief glad Andy Carroll was not in England's World Cup squad this
summer
Jul 20, 2014 22:00 By Darren Lewis
David Sullivan expecting a big season from the fit-again striker who will
have a full pre-season rather than turning up late after international duty
The Mirror
West Ham supremo David Sullivan is pleased their striker Andy Carroll was
left out of England's World Cup squad this summer. The Hammers'
joint-chairman has also tipped the 25-year-old - signed for £15.5million
from Liverpool last summer - to "get his act together" next season. Carroll
had to wait until January of this year to make his first appearance of the
2013-14 season because of a lengthy injury. He went on to help West Ham save
themselves from relegation.
But with just two goals in 16 appearances, Carroll was not selected by Roy
Hodgson for the Three Lions' ill-fated trip to Brazil. Sullivan, however,
believes the hitman's best is yet to come. He is convinced that, with a full
pre-season - including the squad's current trip to New Zealand - under his
belt, Carroll will prove his doubters wrong. He said: "I still think Andy
Carroll will come good. He didn't have a pre-season last year. He never
really got his act together because of that and I think you'll see a much
better player next season. It was a fair decision [leaving Carroll out of
the England squad] based on what he did last season. He didn't do enough
when he came back. "There were a few games he was devastating in - against
Swansea he set up both of Kevin Nolan's goals - but he knows he didn't do
enough to play for England. "And I'm glad he is not playing for England. I
don't want him arriving three weeks late because he has been in Rio all
summer, particularly on the fringes of the squad not playing or not doing
hard training. "I'm pleased he wasn't with England this summer. His time
will come."
Meanwhile, the Hammers have offered exciting young defender Reece Oxford
their biggest deal for any player under 20 in a bid to keep him. Manchester
United are circling for the 15-year-old centre-back, who has been likened to
Rio Ferdinand. Talks have already been opened with Oxford's representatives
as West Ham bid to convince the 6ft 3in starlet his future lies at Upton
Park. Earlier this month, Sullivan hit out at the rules that allow big clubs
to poach the Hammers youngsters for minimal compensation. Arsenal raided
Upton Park recently to poach 16-year-old Ben Sheaf - regarded as one of the
best young midfielders in the country. Sullivan told Mirrorsport: "It almost
makes you give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your
best 15-year-old. What's the point?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham hoping to keep 15-year-old Reece Oxford as Manchester United show
interest
Oxford has played for the West Ham u-18 side
Arsenal and Chelsea also interested in the defender
Hammers may fast-track the youngster to keep him happy
By JOHN DRAYTON
PUBLISHED: 16:50, 20 July 2014 | UPDATED: 16:50, 20 July 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham are stepping up their attempts to secure the long-term future of
wonderkid Reece Oxford as Manchester United launch a bid to sign the
youngster.
The Hammers are desperate to keep hold of the 15-year-old from the clutches
of the Premier League's elite. West Ham will open talks with Oxford's
representatives over an improved deal at Upton Park, which could see the
defender fast-tracked into the senior set-up. But Oxford has serious options
to choose from, with United the latest club to show a firm interest in the
teenager. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen on the youngster, but United are
thought to be leading the race for Oxford should he decide to quite the
Hammers. Speaking earlier this month co-owner David Sullivan spoke of the
club's intention to keep Oxford and blasted England's top sides for
continually poaching the lesser clubs' best talent. 'It almost makes you
give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best
15-year-old. What's the point?,' Sullivan said. The England Under-16
international has already trained with the club's first team and can expect
more senior opportunities at Upton Park next season. Despite being 15, he
has already turned out for West Ham's Under-18s side, as well as their U15s
and U16s.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers harden AC stance with Newcastle
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 20, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have sent a 'hands off' message to Newcastle over a possible Andy
Carroll bid. Earlier today sources inside Upton Park responded to a national
newspaper story that the the north-eastern club were considering making a
£15 million bid by saying there had been no enquiries for the Geordie
striker.A source told ClaretandHugh there had been no bid and that this is
a story which keeps repeating itself anyway. However, the Irons' position
has hardened during the day and we have learned since that no bid will be
considered for the No 9. We were told by a highly placed source: "It's
almost a given they would want him cheaply. But the truth is that Andy
Carroll is not for sale at any price' and there is no point in Newcastle or
any other club trying!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
Kieran Sadlier says facing top-class continental opposition this weekend can
only be of benefit
20.07.2014
Kieran Sadlier is looking for more of the same from the Development Squad
when they tackle their second game in 24 hours against Espanyol on Sunday
afternoon. Following Saturday's 0-0 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk to open the
Absolute Sports Travel Cup at Cambridge United's R Costings Abbey Stadium,
Sadlier hopes to end on a high against the Spanish side. All that was
missing from the Shakhtar contest was a Hammers goal, with Sadlier's shot
against the crossbar the closest that either team came, and the 19-year-old
is happy with how his pre-season is going so far. "I think everyone played
well on Saturday," he said. "I think the game was there to win, but in
pre-season it's not really about winning, it's about getting your fitness up
and getting [closer to][ how we want to play in the season. "The performance
was very good from every single player. The game was quite even and it was
similar to a U21 league match - they were a good team of a similar age to
us. We had some good chances and I think overall everyone got what they
wanted out of the game. "When I hit the bar I saw the keeper off his line
before I brought it down, so I thought I'd have a go and it was a bit
unlucky. I thought it hit the bar and went in, but it stayed out."
With Espanyol next up, Sadlier is looking forward to getting more minutes on
the pitch against a quality side. He added: "On Sunday, I think the ones who
played the last half hour will start, so it'll be the reverse of today's
team and we'll all get another good run out - hopefully we can get some
goals because that'll be good for our confidence."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers put four past Espanyol
WHUFc.com
Elliot Lee struck twice as the Development Squad saw off Espanyol 4-2 at the
R Costings Abbey Stadium
20.07.2014
Development Squad 4-2 RCD Espanyol
Absolute Sports Travel Cup
The Development Squad put four past their RCD Espanyol counterparts at
Cambridge United on Sunday, as the Hammers completed their involvement in
the Absolute Sports Travel Cup with a flourish. Following Saturday's
goalless draw against Shakhtar Donetsk, there was no shortage of goalmouth
action this time round. Paul McCallum's first-half spot-kick cancelled out
Ivan Sales' opener for the Spaniards, before Elliot Lee finished off a fine
team move to fire Nick Haycock's men in front. Once Jose Antonio Raillo had
levelled matters with another excellent strike, it was one way traffic, as
Lee nodded home his second and Josh Cullen got in on the act with a fourth.
West Ham were good value for the victory and had gone close to breaking the
deadlock in the 15th minute. Centre-half Emmanuel Onariase nodded Nathan
Mavila's free-kick back across the six-yard box, where Jamie Harney's
point-blank header was smothered by Nestor Diaz. The opener came with 27
minutes gone and, arguably, against the run of play. Pol Mikel Lirola was
afforded too much space on the right and duly picked out Sales, whose
side-footed effort bobbled into the far corner.
The Hammers, however, were only behind for a matter of seconds. Djair
Parfitt-Williams slid a neat ball into the feet of McCallum, who, with his
back to goal, was rashly upended. Referee Darren Deadman pointed to the spot
and McCallum converted in style, slotting home to the keeper's right.
Espanyol, meanwhile, might have retaken the lead in the half's final
seconds, but Tim Brown dove to his right to claw away substitute Julian
Luque's free-kick. The Spaniards had the first sight of goal after the break
too, as Luque's near-post corner fell at the feet of Hector Rodriguez, but
he blazed over the bar. Then, as they did on Saturday, West Ham shuffled the
entire pack on the hour, with Saturday's starters all joining the fray. And
it had the desired effect, with the Hammers netting three times in the
following 12 minutes. Lee, fresh from a late double at Havant and
Waterlooville, began the goal flurry, collecting from Sebastian Lletget
before unleashing a delightful curler into the far corner. As West Ham had
done earlier in the piece, Espanyol responded in kind, squaring things up
with 66 minutes gone. The ball was teed up for Raillo on the edge of the
box, who clinically slammed beyond Brown. But back came West Ham, through
that man Lee again. After Sam Westley's diving header at the back post had
thudded off the bar, the prolific Lee reacted first to nod home the rebound.
And the goals kept on coming, as Cullen seized on a loose ball to see a
looping header drift beyond Diaz and nestle nicely in the opposite corner.
West Ham's fourth rounded off an excellent afternoon for Haycock's charges,
who return to action at Sutton United on Wednesday evening.
West Ham United: Brown (Boness 71), Knoyle (Westley 60), Mavila ( Page 60),
Onariase (Burke 60), Harney (Oxford 60), Makasi (Cullen (60), Nasha (Bywater
60), Trialist (Lletget 60), Parfitt-Williams (Sadlier 60), Amoo (Gordon 35),
(Turgott 60), (Pike 74), McCallum (Lee 60).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Warm welcome for the Hammers
WHUFc.com
West Ham United's first training session in New Zealand attracted a huge
turnout on Sunday
20.07.2014
West Ham United's first Open Training session in New Zealand proved a huge
success as fans flocked to North Harbour Stadium. Supporters from all over
the world - including the Auckland-based great, great, great grandson of the
Club's founder Arnold Hills - watched the Hammers be put through their paces
before taking the opportunity to meet their heroes. While the squad went
through a series of drills, the fans showed their support by cheering loudly
and singing a stirring rendition of 'Bubbles', which was greatly appreciated
by Joint-Chairman David Gold, manager Sam Allardyce and his staff and
players. For many of the several hundred in attendance, the Open Training
session represented a unique opportunity to see a Barclays Premier League in
the flesh, while for others it formed the first part of their
once-in-a-lifetime trip to the other side of the world. Kiwi Gerald Smith
may have lived in New Zealand for his entire life, but his family history
records that he is the great, great, great grandson of the founder of the
Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company and its football team, Arnold
Hills.
"I've lived in New Zealand all my life but my parents are English and on my
mother's side, she was a Warner and one of my cousins was a director of West
Ham United until the 2000s," said Smith, who was joined at North Harbour by
wife Tresna, son Timothy and daughter Lucy. "My mother's mother was a Hills
and her grandfather was Arnold Hills, the founder of the Club and also the
founder of the Thames Ironworks. I'm definitely a fan because of my family
links, but Wednesday [versus Wellington Phoenix in Auckland] will be the
first time I've actually been to a West Ham game. "When we won the FA Cup in
1980, my cousins sent me postcards and scarves, so this is really just
re-establishing my association with the Club. The associations I've heard of
him through the family are strong. My grandmother was a vegetarian and
that's because he was a vegetarian, too. "I've visited my family in London a
few times, but I've never actually been to the West Ham stadium, so we'll
definitely all come over soon to watch a game."
Following the successful session, the squad happily signed autographs and
posed for photographs, while six players - Adrian, James Tomkins, Guy Demel,
Mo Diame, Mauro Zarate and Cheikhou Kouyate - remained on the pitch to take
part in a community football session with local youngsters. The community
session was organised by the Wellington Phoenix in partnership with their
sponsors Huawei, the Chinese networking and telecommunications company.
Huawei's director of public affairs Andrew Bowater said everyone connected
with the company in New Zealand had been looking forward to West Ham's
visit. "We've got our partnership with the Wellington Phoenix here in New
Zealand and, as part of that, we like to get our community involvement
going," he explained. "So, as soon as we heard West Ham were coming down, we
were keen to build on that connection through the games with Premier League
clubs which are going on here. "As much as possible, we try to link the
Phoenix with their fans, so the community programme is very important to us.
We want to bring fans closer to the game. "One thing about New Zealand is
that people generally think of rugby, but football is the sport most kids
play at weekends. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the
excitement around seeing the kids playing football with Premier League
players is great for us. New Zealand has strong connections with West Ham
and those will only go stronger through events like this one."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Charlton lead race for West Ham goalkeeper Stephen Henderson
By Pete O'Rourke - Follow me: @skysportspeteo | Last Updated: 20/07/14
10:13am
SSN
Sky Sports understands Charlton are closing in on the signing of West Ham
goalkeeper Stephen Henderson. The likes of Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town
have been linked with moves for Henderson, but Charlton are now believed to
be leading the race for the Irishman. Highly-rated Henderson has found
himself down the pecking order at West Ham, with Spanish keeper Adrian and
Jussi Jaaskelainen ahead of him in Sam Allardyce's plans. Henderson, who has
made just two appearances for West Ham, has impressed during loan stints at
Ipswich and Bournemouth during the past two seasons. Charlton are in the
market for a new keeper after seeing Ben Hamer leave for Leicester and
Henderson is thought to have emerged as their top target. Should Charlton
land Henderson his arrival will come as a boost to new boss Bob Peeters as
he continues his plans ahead of the new season.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
REID COY OVER WEST HAM FUTURE
By Sean Whetstone 20 Jul 2014 at 12:30
West Ham Till I Die
After nearly 32 hours of Travelling from London Heathrow to Auckland New
Zealand via Dubai and Sydney the last thing you probably what to do is
attend a press conference, but that was the fate for Sam Allardyce, Kevin
Nolan and Winston Reid on Saturday afternoon. When Reid was asked whether it
was good to be back home he answered: "The weather's a bit crap". When asked
if he has signed a new contract he looked uncomfortable,looked away and
muttered, "No, not yet" I am no body language expert but it was really a
question he didn't want asked and didn't want to answer. Sam Allardyce had
no such issues explaining why he wants to keep Reid. "Today there's pretty
much a shortage of anybody who plays in a central defensive role that
actually commits to the defensive part of his game first," Joint Chairman
David Gold added: "Sure he'd like to play for Barcelona and so would all the
rest of the footballers in the world, or Manchester United, but we're very
hopeful that Winston Reid will be a West Ham player for years to come," Reid
is thought to have been offered a £60,000 per week deal to sign a new 5 year
contract. It is understand he has until he returns back to the UK to make up
his mind.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham chief glad Andy Carroll was not in England's World Cup squad this
summer
Jul 20, 2014 22:00 By Darren Lewis
David Sullivan expecting a big season from the fit-again striker who will
have a full pre-season rather than turning up late after international duty
The Mirror
West Ham supremo David Sullivan is pleased their striker Andy Carroll was
left out of England's World Cup squad this summer. The Hammers'
joint-chairman has also tipped the 25-year-old - signed for £15.5million
from Liverpool last summer - to "get his act together" next season. Carroll
had to wait until January of this year to make his first appearance of the
2013-14 season because of a lengthy injury. He went on to help West Ham save
themselves from relegation.
But with just two goals in 16 appearances, Carroll was not selected by Roy
Hodgson for the Three Lions' ill-fated trip to Brazil. Sullivan, however,
believes the hitman's best is yet to come. He is convinced that, with a full
pre-season - including the squad's current trip to New Zealand - under his
belt, Carroll will prove his doubters wrong. He said: "I still think Andy
Carroll will come good. He didn't have a pre-season last year. He never
really got his act together because of that and I think you'll see a much
better player next season. It was a fair decision [leaving Carroll out of
the England squad] based on what he did last season. He didn't do enough
when he came back. "There were a few games he was devastating in - against
Swansea he set up both of Kevin Nolan's goals - but he knows he didn't do
enough to play for England. "And I'm glad he is not playing for England. I
don't want him arriving three weeks late because he has been in Rio all
summer, particularly on the fringes of the squad not playing or not doing
hard training. "I'm pleased he wasn't with England this summer. His time
will come."
Meanwhile, the Hammers have offered exciting young defender Reece Oxford
their biggest deal for any player under 20 in a bid to keep him. Manchester
United are circling for the 15-year-old centre-back, who has been likened to
Rio Ferdinand. Talks have already been opened with Oxford's representatives
as West Ham bid to convince the 6ft 3in starlet his future lies at Upton
Park. Earlier this month, Sullivan hit out at the rules that allow big clubs
to poach the Hammers youngsters for minimal compensation. Arsenal raided
Upton Park recently to poach 16-year-old Ben Sheaf - regarded as one of the
best young midfielders in the country. Sullivan told Mirrorsport: "It almost
makes you give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your
best 15-year-old. What's the point?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham hoping to keep 15-year-old Reece Oxford as Manchester United show
interest
Oxford has played for the West Ham u-18 side
Arsenal and Chelsea also interested in the defender
Hammers may fast-track the youngster to keep him happy
By JOHN DRAYTON
PUBLISHED: 16:50, 20 July 2014 | UPDATED: 16:50, 20 July 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham are stepping up their attempts to secure the long-term future of
wonderkid Reece Oxford as Manchester United launch a bid to sign the
youngster.
The Hammers are desperate to keep hold of the 15-year-old from the clutches
of the Premier League's elite. West Ham will open talks with Oxford's
representatives over an improved deal at Upton Park, which could see the
defender fast-tracked into the senior set-up. But Oxford has serious options
to choose from, with United the latest club to show a firm interest in the
teenager. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keen on the youngster, but United are
thought to be leading the race for Oxford should he decide to quite the
Hammers. Speaking earlier this month co-owner David Sullivan spoke of the
club's intention to keep Oxford and blasted England's top sides for
continually poaching the lesser clubs' best talent. 'It almost makes you
give up on having an academy if they can come in and nick your best
15-year-old. What's the point?,' Sullivan said. The England Under-16
international has already trained with the club's first team and can expect
more senior opportunities at Upton Park next season. Despite being 15, he
has already turned out for West Ham's Under-18s side, as well as their U15s
and U16s.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hammers harden AC stance with Newcastle
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on July 20, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have sent a 'hands off' message to Newcastle over a possible Andy
Carroll bid. Earlier today sources inside Upton Park responded to a national
newspaper story that the the north-eastern club were considering making a
£15 million bid by saying there had been no enquiries for the Geordie
striker.A source told ClaretandHugh there had been no bid and that this is
a story which keeps repeating itself anyway. However, the Irons' position
has hardened during the day and we have learned since that no bid will be
considered for the No 9. We were told by a highly placed source: "It's
almost a given they would want him cheaply. But the truth is that Andy
Carroll is not for sale at any price' and there is no point in Newcastle or
any other club trying!"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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