Big Sam on: Aston Villa
WHUFC.com
The manager speaks to the media ahead of Saturday's game against Aston Villa
06.11.2014
Sam Allardyce is happy to see the treatment room emptying as West Ham United prepare to face Aston Villa on Saturday. Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid could return after suffering injuries, while Andy Carroll continues his rehabilitation in promising fashion. The manager spoke to the media ahead of his team's weekend assignment, with team selection at the top of the agenda.
Good morning Sam. First of all, can I ask about Andy Carroll? He played a behind closed doors game in the week, how did it go and will be be able to take part this weekend?
SA: "It depends how he feels this morning and how he trains on Friday - that will be the deciding factor on whether he gets into the squad or not. If he continues the way he is, if not this weekend, then by the end of the international break he should be okay and ready to join the squad."
He has been out for a while. In his absence others have come in and done well - how much of a challenge does he face to get himself back in there?
SA: "Everybody faces a bigger challenge than they did last season because the strength in depth of the squad has been proven to be very strong up to now. Even my trusted captain has found it difficult to break his way back into the side, so he's frustrated as are other players like Matt Jarvis, Ricardo Vaz Te and Joey O'Brien. These were my regular players last season but because the players have done so well when they've not been available, it's difficult for me to put them back in based on the performances and results."
Sakho was missing last week, is he back for this one?
SA: "He's training on Thursday for this first time, and Winston Reid will do some light training too. We'll wait and see how the session goes and the final decisions will be made on Friday as to who is available for selection."
Has Stewart Downing done enough, in your eyes, to get back in the England squad?
SA: "I think it's about position now. We've changed Stewart's position and it seems to have allowed him to flourish more in an attacking formation. Whether Roy sees if he's done enough in that new position to combine with the players he's got there will be interesting to see. "Certainly in terms of experience and football, he's on top of his game and playing exceptionally well at the moment, He's already scored two goals this season, which is one more than last year, so he's not only creating and assisting more, but getting more opportunities to score."
In terms of this weekend's game, you're up against a team who are going through a pretty tough time. Do you have sympathy for Paul Lambert there?
SA: "Always, because there's a huge pressure that comes upon you when you lose so many games on the trot. He must be wondering what he's doing wrong at the moment, because I watched the game against Tottenham last Sunday and thought how unlucky he was that he lost that game one to a sending off, and two to a deflected free-kick. That seems to happen when things aren't going for you. "You have to believe in yourself and your team, which he does, to come back. We have to make sure we try and continue their poor run. He'll remember when they pulled off a result at Liverpool and say that's what they're capable of, so I'd imagine it'll be a very difficult game in terms of trying to break them down and we'll have to be really aware of not leaving too many spaces to let them play that good counter-attacking game that they seem to adapt to well away from home."
Some comments from the Joint-Chairman this week seemed to suggest that Winston Reid was still a little way off agreeing a contract. Are you still hopeful that those talks can get back on track?
SA: "Well I haven't given up because I feel that we're progressing very nicely and that we can give Winston what he wants if he stays with us. We're building our Club slowly at the moment, but our ultimate goal is to be as ambitious as we can and if we can carry on building slowly but surely we can all achieve that goal. If Winston is impatient and sees it somewhere else, we'll have to wait and see."
Expectations among the fans have risen. Have your targets changed?
SA: "Not yet. Only ten games in it's too early [to do that]. Look at Aston Villa's start and everybody was going on about what a fantastic start they had - I think it was ten points in their first four games - and how quickly it can turn. It's far too early for us to start changing where and what we want to do. Our big test comes at the end of November and December when the games come thick and fast.
"I believe this time around, if we keep the squad fit, we will have a much better November and December than we've had in recent years. That's been our bad couple of months or our bad six weeks ever since I've been here. Until we get to the end of that, we're not going to change any areas we try and hit."
How much of a challenge is it for you to manage the players when they're fighting for their places?
SA: "I have to manage the disappointment and I have to look at the individuals and try and make sure they stay focused. The biggest problem you have with a fully-fit squad is making sure you keep the focus and concentration of that player. However long it might be that they feel they're not getting back in the team, it can change in a split second and if they're not physically and mentally ready and prepared to step into the team then we all suffer, particularly them. "That's their responsibility, but my responsibility is to keep them focused and as fit as possible, eager waiting for that opportunity. Recently we've had quite a few changes, and since players have stepped in like Carl Jenkinson and James Collins, they haven't lost their places. At the moment that's where we're at and the players who are waiting patiently for an opportunity have to make sure they're fit enough physically and mentally to play their very best, help the team win and say 'I expect to keep my place.'"
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Stewie's delight at England return
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing is looking forward to another opportunity to impress for his country
06.11.2014
Stewart Downing is determined to impress after earning a recall to the England squad. Speaking exclusively to West Ham TV, the in-form midfielder expressed his delight at being included in Roy Hodgson's 26-man group for the Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Slovenia and friendly international in Scotland. Downing, who earned the last of his 34 caps in May 2012, put his outstanding recent form and return to the England stage largely down to a change to a new central role. Now, he hopes to be deployed in the same position for his country.
"I'm obviously over the moon," he began. "If I was being honest I didn't think I'd get picked, so to get picked is obviously a big thing for. I just need to keep playing well for West Ham and hopefully I'll get a couple more caps when I get away. "These are very big games. Slovenia is a qualifier and you could say Scotland is a friendly, but I don't think we'll class it as a friendly. It'll be a tough game, but is one we want to win. I'm looking forward to being involved. I want to be involved, get a few more caps and put some performances in.
"I think a few players will think they deserved a call-up, including a few of the lads here who have been playing well. It's obviously difficult for the England manager to pick 20-odd players out of the whole country and I understand that. "The way I've been playing and performing, I thought I was in with a chance and credit to the manager because he has picked me. He has obviously been watching our games and now I just need to put a performance in and stay in the squad, really."
While Downing has always played as a winger on his previous appearances for England, but he hopes to play in the middle this time around. So, how much does the midfielder put his recall down to the change to a role at the attacking tip of the diamond? "Probably all of it! Credit to the manager for changing it up. Playing in new and different positions can help and that's probably why I've been picked. Where Roy sees me playing I don't know but I'll find out when I get there. "I'm enjoying playing in the middle, so if he plays me there and I can carry on my form I've been producing at West Ham, hopefully that'll be good enough."
Now he is back in the fold, Downing is aiming to remain in the squad and stay there for a potential third major tournament at Euro 2016.
"That's the aim. First and foremost, I need to do well when I get the chance because there will be other players looking to get into that 23 and it will be difficult to stay in there. I've got to give Roy something to think about by playing well and taking my chance.
"I can play in a few positions so hopefully that will help my cause."
Now Downing has himself been called-up, he hopes his West Ham team-mates can also win international recognition for their own fine starts to the season - the likes of Carl Jenkinson, James Tomkins, Mark Noble and Aaron Cresswell. "I think it's a bonus for the others as they can see that players from this club will be picked and it's not just a small group of clubs from whom players are picked. "A few of our players must have been in Roy's thinking for this squad. Jenko has been picked before and is starting to hit a run of form now he has got over his injury, Mark Noble has consistently played well and Aaron has come in and done well too. James Tomkins was also very unlucky to be left out considering his form. "It should give our players confidence that they can get picked."
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West Ham's Elliot Lee injured 95 minutes into Southend United loan
BBC.co.uk
West Ham striker Elliot Lee has returned to his parent club after getting injured just 95 minutes into his Southend United loan spell.
The 19-year-old, son of former England player Rob Lee, tore a hamstring in his first Shrimpers training session. Southend boss Phil Brown told BBC Essex: "The paperwork was done at 9:30 on Friday morning. "We started the session at 10:30 - and at five past 11 he pulled up with a hamstring injury."
Southend boss Phil Brown : "We've mutually agreed to cancel the loan. But come January or February, it is certainly one we would revisit."
Lee has made two substitute appearances for the Hammers and scored once in four games during a loan spell at Colchester United last season. "It's a real unfortunate situation. It sometimes happens in football," said Brown. "We've had good conversations with the West Ham staff. It's just a very unfortunate situation. "It's a real bad hamstring tear. He'll be out for 10 or 12 weeks. "We've mutually agreed to cancel the loan. But come January or February, it is certainly one we would revisit."
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FA Cup: East Thurrock United travel in West Ham coach
FA CUP FIRST ROUND
Venue: Victoria Park Date: Saturday, 8 November Kick-off: 15:00 GMT
BBC.co.uk
East Thurrock United boss John Coventry hopes his players get a taste of professionalism by using West Ham's coach for their Hartlepool FA Cup trip. The Ryman Premier side are still reaping the benefits of their run to the first round three years ago. "It's a little bit of luxury - that's where some of the money is going to go," Coventry told BBC Essex. "We're trying to give our players an experience like they were a pro player just for this weekend."
Premier League side West Ham are at home to Aston Villa on Saturday, meaning the Hammers' usual coach for away trips was available to hire. South Essex side East Thurrock have only reached the first round once before, when they were beaten at home by then-League Two Macclesfield in 2011, but have benefitted from a period of financial stability provided by that run. The Rocks have secured a four-figure shirt sponsorship deal with a betting firm ahead of the trip to Victoria Park. And they have also negotiated a bit of help from a friend in the Football League. "My assistant Joe Keith is talking to Phil Parkinson at Bradford City and I think he's been kind enough to offer their training facilities, which we can use on the Friday on the way up," said Coventry. "It covers up the fact you're sitting on a coach for five or six hours."
East Thurrock currently play in Corringham but want to sell their Rookery Hill ground for housing and move to a site in Stanford Le Hope to create a sports hub, although they have faced opposition from local residents. "We've been in the Ryman Premier now for four years. The club had never stabilised at that level for that length of time before," said Coventry. "We almost got promoted two years ago but the thought of going into the Conference South at the time was quite daunting financially. "I don't think we can afford to compete at the next level. If we were to relocate, all of a sudden the picture changes."
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Haycock fired, Potts promoted
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Steve Potts is set to be confirmed as the new Development Squad manager after Nick Haycock was dismissed earlier in the day. Haycock, who joined West Ham five years ago as Under 18s coach was promoted to the Development Squad three years later. However his time at the club ended today after he departed under something of a cloud. As a result of Haycock's expulsion Potts, who made 399 appearances for West Ham in central defence between 1985 and 2001 is poised to replace Haycock. Additionally, KUMB can reveal Under 18s coach Mark Phillips is set to be confirmed as Potts' replacement as Under 18s manager. We'll have more for you on this as it happens.
mark Adam Phillips @markphillipswhu
Goodbye 2 Nick Haycock thanks mate u taught me a lot,top coach.COYI
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West Ham to face Millwall
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Batten down the hatches ... West Ham have been drawn against local rivals Millwall in the next round of the Under 21s Cup. For what will almost certainly be the last time before West Ham move to Stratford in 2016, a Millwall team will provide the opposition at the Boleyn Ground on Monday, 24 November. The two bitter rivals were paired in the next stage of the tournament after the Lions beat Colchester United in the previous stage of the competition.
Despite having been fierce opponents for the last century or so (mostly off the field of play), the two teams have only met on 26 occasions in their history at first team level. West Ham have won 10 of those meetings, Millwall five with the remaining 11 drawn. The most recent meeting, which took place in February 2012 at the Boleyn ended 2-1 in West Ham's favour, thanks to Winston Reid's second half winner.
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Lee's loan the shortest? Not quite!
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Elliot Lee's ill-fated loan at Southend lasted approximately one hour of one training session before he sustained a hamstring injury.
The 19-year-old striker is likely to be out of action for between six to eight weeks as a result of the injury sustained on his first day of training with the Shrimpers. However his loan spell was far from the shortest involving West Ham United. Back in January 2004, Alan Pardew signed Anthony Barness on a month-long loan from (Sam Allardyce's) Bolton Wanderers. Yet before he even had the chance to kick a ball with his new team mates, Barness was recalled to the Reebok Stadium as the result of an injury crisis. Speaking at the time, Bolton boss Allardyce said: "I tried all week to bring in a defender. Unfortunately, I have not been able to do that."
Former Hammer Robert Hall, now at Bolton was likewise denied the opportunity to join his new team mates when he was recalled from a 2011 loan at Oxford just 24 hours after agreeing to extend a month-loan loan spell at the Kassam Stadium, as the result of an injury crisis at the Boleyn. However the title of shortest permanent signing almost certainly belongs to Argentine defender Mauricio Taricco, who terminated his contract with West Ham by mutual consent just six days after joining the club from Tottenham in 2004. Having started the first game to be played since joining West Ham - a 1-0 defeat at Millwall - Taricco lasted just 27 minutes before pulling up with torn hamstring. He subsequently agreed for his contract to be terminated and immediately retired from professional football.
Oh won't you stay, just a little bit longer? The shortest stays
1. Anthony Barness (Bolton to West Ham, loan)
Barness was recalled 24 hours after leaving Bolton.
2. Robert Hall (West Ham to Oxford, loan)
Recalled to West Ham 24 hours after extending an existing loan agreement.
3. Elliot Lee (West Ham to Southend, loan)
Broke down less than an hour into his first training session.
4. Mauricio Taricco (Spurs to West Ham)
Played for 27 minutes before tearing a hamstring.
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Allardyce: we haven't given up on Reid yet
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce admitted today that his chances of retaining the services of Winston Reid were diminishing - but insisted that the club are doing all they can to agree a new contract. The Kiwi centre half is out of contract next summer and has thus far refused all offers of a new deal. However Allardyce, who inherited Reid as part of his first team squad when joining the club in the summer of 2011 believes that all hope is not lost yet. "I haven't given up because I feel that we're progressing very nicely and that we can give Winston what he wants if he stays with us," said Allardyce. "We're building our club slowly at the moment, but our ultimate goal is to be as ambitious as we can and if we can carry on building slowly but surely we can all achieve that goal. "If Winston is impatient and sees it somewhere else, we'll have to wait and see."
Reid moved to West Ham in a £4million switch from Danish club Midtjylland in 2010, following a successful World Cup campaign during which he scored for New Zealand. Having initially struggled to hold a first team place down, following the departure of Avram Grant he became a staple in Allardyce's defence and has gone on to make 114 appearances for West Ham. In recent months he has been linked with a string of top tier clubs and despite having been offered improved terms to extend his stay, had refused to sign a new deal with West Ham. It is rumoured that Reid is seeking circa £80,000 per week; West Ham's most recent offer is said to be worth in the region of £75,000 per week.
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Carroll touch and go for Villa clash
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Andy Carroll could play a part in this weekend's match against Aston Villa, according to Sam Allardyce. The striker made his first tentative steps towards a return to competitive football yesterday when he was part of a West Ham XI that faced Southend in a specially-arranged 60-minute match at Chadwell Heath. And according to Allardyce, a decision on whether to include Carroll in this weekend's 18-man match day squad will be taken sometime tomorrow. "It depends how he feels this morning and how he trains on Friday," confirmed Allardyce, speaking to the media at this morning's pre-match press conference. "That will be the deciding factor on whether he gets into the squad or not. "If he continues the way he is, if not this weekend, then by the end of the international break he should be okay and ready to join the squad."
Allardyce also confirmed that both Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid will face late fitness tests to determine whether or not they will be fit enough to be involved. "He [Sakho] is training on Thursday for this first time, and Winston Reid will do some light training too," confirmed Big Sam. "We'll wait and see how the session goes and the final decisions will be made on Friday as to who is available for selection."
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Karren the Baron
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's vice chairman Karren Brady was inducted to the House of Lords earlier today. 45-year-old Brady, who had been vice chair at West Ham for the last four years will now be known as Baroness Brady of Knightsbridge after she was formerly confirmed as the latest member of the Conservative party to be awarded a Peerage in a swanky ceremony at the House of Lords earlier today. Accompanied by husband Paul Peschisolido and two teenage children, Brady was cheered by other peers in the Hall as she signed the Lords' code of conduct before being officially confirmed as Baroness Brady, of Knightsbridge in our city of Westminster'.
An often controversial figure at West Ham, Brady first incurred the wrath of United supporters when revoking the free season tickets previously awarded to John Lyall's wife Yvonne and son Murray due to cost-cutting measures. She later fell foul of fans when referring to the East End of being "a hotbed of racism", before being accused of spreading false information regarding impending season ticket price rises.
Last year Brady was awarded a £1.5million bonus for securing the Olympic Stadium on behalf of West Ham. The club will sell their current Boleyn Ground home in order to take a 99-year lease at the Stratford stadium in 2016. She was praised recently for standing firm on the issue of ground-sharing, when dashing Tottenham 's hopes of sharing the Olympic Stadium whilst their White Hart Lane ground is being redeveloped.
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Downing thanks Allardyce for England call-up
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 6th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Stewart Downing has been called up to the England squad for the first time since May 2012. The in-form winger became the first Hammer to receive a call-up for the national side since Andy Carroll was included in the team that beat San Marino in October 2012, when he was named in the 26-man squad to face Scotland and Slovenia later this month. A delighted Downing told whufc.com: "If I was being honest I didn't think I'd get picked, to get picked is obviously a big thing for me. I just need to keep playing well for West Ham and hopefully I'll get a couple more caps when I get away. "The way I've been playing and performing, I thought I was in with a chance and credit to the manager because he has picked me. He has obviously been watching our games and now I just need to put a performance in and stay in the squad, really."
And the former Aston Villa and Middlesbrough midfielder also had a special word of praise for current manager Sam Allardyce, who Downing believes put him back in contention for an England spot having tasked him with a new central role, in which he has excelled in recent weeks. "Credit to the manager for changing it up," said the 30-year-old. "Playing in new and different positions can help and that's probably why I've been picked. Where Roy sees me playing I don't know but I'll find out when I get there. "I'm enjoying playing in the middle, so if he plays me there and I can carry on my form I've been producing at West Ham, hopefully that'll be good enough."
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THE WONDER OF WHU
By Bianca Westwood 6 Nov 2014 at 08:00
West Ham till I Die
I've got a little soft spot for that 'not-so-small-anymore' club in Staffordshire. I've done a lot of features and interviews in Stoke-on-Trent over the years. Under Tony Pulis I saw the Potters get to an FA cup final at Wembley, one goal denying them the chance of winning their first major trophy since 1972; the following season for their first foray into Europe for 40 years, I travelled with the fans to Switzerland for the win against FC Thun (with Stokies having fun at my expense forever recorded in the internet ether on a highly embarrassing YouTube video); I went to sunny Valencia with them where they were narrowly beaten at the Mestalla to end their Europa league dream and, just like the Dagenham debacle but with snow instead of rain, I got caught in a blizzard at the Britannia filming Take It Like A Fan.
Good times. Well, it's a good club. Professionally and carefully run, with a good chairman who is cautiously ambitious but with high hopes, plus it has a diehard fan base. They don't call them the 12th Man for nothing. Their move to a new stadium was the dawn of a new era for them. It kickstarted a period of steady success and development that now places them in the 'solid Premier League outfit' bracket. You never see them as relegation favourites and, considering where they've come from and how, relatively speaking, little cash they spend, it's a tremendous achievement.
A couple of seasons ago I'd have said I'd like to emulate their progress. Now I think we can do better.
It has to be said…sorry-not-sorry Stokies! I was totally 'stoked' (pun intended) that they threw away their lead last Saturday. The victory against Manchester City at Upton Park left us euphoric but for me last weekend was just as significant a moment, if not more so, in our metamorphosis. A year ago, at 2 nil down away to Stoke City we'd have crumbled quicker than you can say Why Delilah! In fact, we didn't pick up a single point from a losing position away from home last season. Times are a-changing!
I don't know whether my entire way of thinking has altered or if I just have a renewed sense of faith in this particular West Ham team but, honest to God, even after their second went in I thought to myself 'this isn't over'.
What's happened to me?? This is no typical Hammers thought process! Has this happened to you too?
Afterwards I read what David Hautzig said in his match report on here about having no hope in the second half but at the time, somehow I knew the fat lady hadn't sung. I'm not lying! I wasn't actually watching the game I was on the gantry at Charlton so that might be one reason I still believed. But no it was more than that. I was expecting some sort of comeback.
So yes times are definitely changing.
I feel like I'm boring everyone with my constant declarations of adoration for Stewart Downing this season but seriously, his pass to Valencia for our first was something to behold. Exquisite. Then he topped the point, and the day, off with a nicely taken goal of his own. Well deserved. Usually I'm the kiss of death for any player transferred into my Fantasy FC team but he hasn't let me down yet. He's still standing, and impressing. We can only hope for his sake Hodgson makes a little transfer of his own. We'll see.
So going back to my earlier point, if we continue in this vein we can not just mimic but surpass the recent achievements of Stoke City. A new stadium, a strong and consistent squad, a good cup run, hell maybe even some silverware, and how nice would a West Ham jolly-boys-outing in Europe be? We're a work in progress that got the likes of Alex Song to sit up and take notice. The 'project' was a huge part of the reason the Cameroonian decided to join and I'm hoping, with a successful mid table finish, he'll have no qualms about staying in the East End.
Now, I know you all adore a Big Sam love-in, but, after speaking to the man himself last week for Soccer Saturday I'm utterly convinced we have an intriguing and bubbling future. I openly admit I have had my doubts about him in the past. Not when he was appointed, I knew he'd be the right fit for a promotion. Yes I was disappointed we didn't end up in the automatic places, I had even booked my post-season summer holiday to Vegas early in the smug confidence we'd finish in the top two, until Reading stole a march on the Championship! But it gave you lot a good day out at Wembley, and me something to do at the hotel pool bar, whilst still hammered (pun intended) from the night before.
The rest has been discussed and discussed again. Until we're claret and blue in the face. First season back in the top flight, great. 10th, that'll do nicely. Second season, not so much a syndrome as a winter blip. We got through it. Yet we all knew, the gaffer included, that something had to give. I was annoyed with our lack of signings, I was sick of hearing people inside and outside the club bemoaning our style. The same pundits who are currently lauding over Allardyce's turnaround and asking "where are the Big Sam Out fans now?" were the same ones who were sitting smugly on their high horses week in week out last season, relentlessly analysing how dire our football was.
A treble over Spurs, although glorious, was not enough. We wanted real cup finals. And we wanted to do it The West Ham Way.
This season was make or break. And, to his credit, Sam is pulling it off. So far!
No-one could have predicted it. Least of all Allardyce himself. He told me they'd taken some calculated risks in their purchases but they didn't expect them ALL to pay off in the manner that they have. He was eager to tell me that that the signings were not the sole labours of David Sullivan, it was a team effort. He was categorical that he'd never been told to play more entertaining football. There was no such ultimatum. And he revealed that if The West Ham Way means, spirit, bravery, commitment, pride and passion for the shirt with a dash of flair thrown in, then he believes in it.
He was at pains to tell me that, although it wasn't some grand masterplan he'd concocted, there was always an intention to grow and develop the team. "Getting in the Premier League, staying in the Premier League and now getting better in the Premier League." was the primary focus, but they always had evolution in mind. It's progress. A process. It's a steady advance and now he's got the quality players to play the quality football.
I hadn't interviewed him for a long time. I'd always liked him as a man, now I remembered why I liked him as a manager. His successes over the years have been no accident. He is charismatic, brutally honest and direct (no I don't just mean in his football!) I've heard him called arrogant, he's not, he's just tremendously confident in his own ability. He's not a dinosaur, he was a pioneer of sports psychology in football, he studies every aspect of his players' performances, analyses data, knows the game inside out and is one of the best man managers there is. The players love him. Ok maybe Ra'vel isn't big on Big Sam but that's another story.
If he was a presidential candidate he'd have got my vote. I was sold. There was no smarm or spin. He cares for the club and he cares for the team. He says he doesn't have anything to prove anymore but I got the impression he'd love to take this club to new heights. The Olympic Stadium will give him the right platform. We talked of the inhabitants of the Britannia, St Mary's, the Emirates and the Etihad. All clubs that have moved home and moved up. In more ways than one.
Now all we have to do is keep the ball rolling. We have that winning feeling. The encounter with Villa is another crucial yard-stick for how far we've come. We can't afford to slip up. We have to kill them off. Sharpen our ruthless edge. Like the Hammers team that would have choked away from home at Stoke last season, we used to be the team that would choke against a club on a winless run. Instead we need to put them in a choke hold. But do it nicely…you know, The West Ham Way.
Come On You Irons!
B x
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Andy Carroll must change fearless playing style to stay injury free, claims Sam Allardyce
Nov 06, 2014 22:30 By Neil McLeman
The newly engaged England striker could return to the West Ham squad tomorrow after coming through a closed-door friendly with Southend
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce wants Andy Carroll to change his "fearless" playing style to avoid getting injured. The newly engaged England striker could return to the West Ham squad this weekend after coming through a closed-door friendly with Southend. The Hammers boss has urged the club's record signing, who has been out all season with an ankle injury, to maintain extra training to continue to build up his fitness.
But Allardyce also wants Carroll to "modify his game" to keep out of the treatment room. "I think he is so brave and fearless that I fear that some of the injuries actually come from that," he said. "He doesn't fear any situation. But sometimes he goes into those areas with no fear and it can be a little dangerous in terms of injuries. "That comes with more experience I think. He is a whole-hearted, committed player. "I cannot tell him to pull out of challenges. I think that with experience, you just know what you can win and what you definitely might not be able to win. That might steer him clear of an injury or two that might occur." Allardyce urged Carroll to also take responsibility for his conditioning. "I think Andy has got to manage himself," he said. "His big responsibility is to himself now. It is the old adage: we can lead Andy to water but we cannot make him drink." Carroll, 25, announced his engagement to former TOWIE star Billi Mucklow this week - and his boss approves. "I always think it can be very good for a footballer when they settle down more off the field," Allardyce said. "It can be a very lonely city if you are sat in your apartment on your own every single night. It is obviously going to encourage you to go out and maybe, maybe stay out that little bit too late. But I think this can only be good for Andy and his football."
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West Ham could lose rising academy star Reece Oxford at the end of the season
Nov 05, 2014 22:30 By Darren Lewis
The highly-rated centre half is keen to stay at Upton Park, but talks over a professional contract between the two parties are at a stalemate
The Mirror
West Ham are set to gamble on starlet Reece Oxford leaving the club next summer with talks over a professional deal at a stalemate.
The Hammers have been in well-documented talks to keep the 6ft 3in centre-half at the club with a number of the Premier League's big clubs interested. Oxford, 16 in December, captained England's U-17s in the summer and was an unused substitute in their Capital One Cup defeat to Sheffield United in September. His contract expires at the end of the season and he has so far indicated he is keen to stay at Upton Park to continue his education. Oxford, likened to Rio Ferdinand because of his ball-playing abilities, is keen to emulate the former England defender who came through the West Ham academy and broke into the first team before moving on. Agreement over elements of the new contract put to him, however, have yet to be reached with little chance of any movement. It is also understood that West Ham have high hopes for another two defensive prospects, Reece Burke and Josh Pask, both of whom have signed their first pro deals. It means the east Londoners are running the risk of Oxford being poached just as central midfielder Ben Sheaf was by Arsenal in the summer. Earlier this year West Ham supremo David Sullivan admitted to Mirror Sport he was frustrated at seeing his rising academy stars spirited away.
Sullivan said: "Its a joke that they can just come in and nick your best players for just £250,000. Our academy costs just under £4million a year to run. Up until this season you could nick a 15-year-old for about £50,000. "I think they are going to change it now and there is going to be some retrospective compensation. So you'll probably get £250,000. "If you lose someone for a few hundred thousand quid its nothing when the academy costs £4million to run."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mystery as Haycock leaves Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 6, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham Under 21 Development manager Nick Haycock has left the club with immediate effect in mysterious circumstances. The shock news was confirmed by the reliable @EXWHUEmployee on twitter this evening and has come as a surprise to many as he was a very popular figure at the club. No reasons – official or unofficial – have been given for the departure of a coach who joined the club five years ago when he looked after the under 18s before stepping up to look after the under-21s three years later. Speculation suggests that Under 18 manager Steve Potts will step up into the U21 hot seat. Under 18 assistant manager Mark Phillips is rumoured to taking the Under 18 manager role.
Haycock was absent from the under 21 game against Norwich today which the Under 21′s lost 1-0 after going down to ten men when Lewis Page was sent off early in the match. Mystery surrounds the reasons behind Nick's departure but Terry Westley will use the opportunity to make some changes in the set-up he inherited from Tony Carr
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Sullivan "anticipated" Downing call-up
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 6, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Sullivan is entirely unsurprised by Stewart Downing's England call-up But he is delighted that the man he believes is currently the best midfielder in the Premier League has been rewarded with a Three Lions return. Downing has been inspiring in the team's new diamond formation and looks all set to gain his 35th and possibly 36th caps against Slovenia and Scotland. Sullivan – speaking exclusively to ClaretandHugh – declared: It was anticipated. His stats re assists show he's possibly the best midfielder in the PL at the moment. Stats don't lie ! All the WHU family wish him will with his new England career."
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Irons issue OS job assurances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 6, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are understood to have come to an arrangement with the London Legacy Development Corporation that all their employees will receive job interviews when the club moves from Upton Park to the Olympic Stadium. We reported last night that the stadium operator – strongly fancied to be French firm Vinci – will become responsible for virtually every area of operation at the OS. And it is they who are set to employ staff to fill jobsin stewarding, security, maintenance, catering roles and other areas of operation. That had led to fears of possible job losses among the present part time and possibly full time staff but we have learned that absolutely every employee will get an interview. We were told by a highly placed Boleyn source source: "There have been talks with the LLDC and the aim has always been to take our people with us – they will all get interviews if they want one. "Given the size and scope of the new operation we would imagine there will be even more jobs available. We would hope to work with the stadium operator on these issues."
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Friday, November 7
Thursday, November 6
Daily WHUFC News - 6th November 2014
Five feature in Southend friendly
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll completed 60 minutes of a behind-closed-doors match with
Southend United on Wednesday
05.11.2014
Andy Carroll continued his comeback from injury by featuring in a
behind-closed-doors meeting with Southend United on Wednesday. The 60-minute
training match, which was held at West Ham United's Chadwell Heath training
ground, saw Carroll complete the full hour under the watchful eye of manager
Sam Allardyce and his staff. Carroll, who has not featured for the first
team this season following ankle surgery in the United States in July, was
joined in the Hammers side by Joey O'Brien, Matt Jarvis, Kevin Nolan and
Ricardo Vaz Te. All five came through unscathed will have benefited from
time on the pitch in a match environment against an energetic Southend
outfit, with winger Jarvis getting his name on the scoresheet. The news
comes as a further boost to Big Sam, who expects to include Diafra Sakho
(shoulder) and Winston Reid (dead leg) in his squad for Saturday's Barclays
Premier League fixture with Aston Villa at the Boleyn Ground.
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Sam excited by international stars
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has welcomed West Ham United's decision to host a friendly
between Argentina and Croatia
05.11.2014
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has welcomed the Club's decision to
host the exciting international friendly between Argentina and Croatia. The
fixture, which will take place at the Boleyn Ground on the evening of
Wednesday 12 November, could see the likes of Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez,
Luka Modric and Mario Mandzukic appear at the home of the Hammers. With
tickets priced at just £25 for Adults and £15 for concessions, Big Sam said
the whole family could enjoy a night under the floodlights watching some of
the finest players in the world.
"I must say I think this is yet another exciting event at an exciting time
for West Ham United," he enthused. "For most football fans, the opportunity
to see the likes of Lionel Messi in action in the flesh is one they would
not want to miss. He does not play on English soil too often, so this is a
chance to see one of the greatest players who has ever kicked a football on
the pitch, live. "Messi will not be the only star in action, either.
Argentina have got some fantastic players, as was illustrated by them
reaching the World Cup final just a few months ago. Croatia, too, have some
very talented individuals with the likes of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic, so
this is going to be a very competitive fixture between two top international
sides. "I understand that ticket prices have been set at a very competitive
level, meaning families can bring their children down to watch some of the
best players in the world in action in our stadium. "I am sure the Argentina
and Croatia fans will make for quite an atmosphere, too, so the stage is
certainly set for a unique occasion."
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Mavila ready for Canaries
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad's Nathan Mavila is looking for a win against Norwich
City
05.11.2014
West Ham United Development Squad's Nathan Mavila is looking forward to
facing Norwich City as the Hammers travel to the Canaries' Colney training
ground on Thursday fpr a 1pm kick-off The versatile 19-year-old is one of a
number of players to progress to the Dev Squad after making 29 appearances
for the U18s last season. Mavila scored against Norwich on his Hammers debut
almost two years ago. Speaking ahead of the clash with the Canaries, he
said: "I'm excited for the game, I'm really looking forward to it to be
fair. "Norwich are a very exciting team. They're a very strong attacking
side with the two wingers Josh and Jacob Murphy. We know they're a good side
and it'll be a tough game."
Last time out the Hammers narrowly lost 2-1 to an experienced Manchester
United team which included the likes of Michael Carrick, Tyler Blackett and
James Wilson. "It was really good to face players who have played in the
first team and in the Premier League. To play against the likes of Michael
Carrick and Tyler Blackett was a good test and one we'll learn from. I think
despite losing we did well."
The Dev Squad's recent good performances have yet to translate into points
and the Hammers find themselves at the foot of the table while their
opponents, Norwich, are just two points ahead. "We haven't got off to the
start we quite wanted results wise. Performance wise we started off slowly
but I think we're getting better. We're quite a young squad with more
younger players coming through."
Among the younger players who have been involved in the Dev Squad are Josh
Pask who recently signed his first professional contract and Reece Oxford
who captained the England U17s last week. "I think the younger players have
coped pretty well to be fair, the centre backs Josh Pask, Manny Onariase and
Reece Oxford particularly have all done well so far, hopefully that
continues."
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The Big Interview - Steve Potts
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U18s manager assesses his side's season so far
04.11.2014
Steve Potts' West Ham United U18s have made a fantastic start to their
league season having taken 19 points from their first eleven games. This
impressive vein of form coincided with a eight-game unbeaten run at the
start of the season. As a West Ham player Potts made 506 first team
appearances, and he currently holds the Club's record of Premier League
appearances. As the U18s approach the half way point of their league
season, we caught up with the two time Hammer of the Year winner.
Steve, your U18s got back to winning ways against Norwich City with a 1-0
victory on Saturday. What did you make of the game?
SP "I thought we played very well, we controlled a lot of the game better
than we had been doing earlier in the season. Even though we were winning
games I still I wasn't happy enough, but on Saturday we got a lot of the
ball and moved it around well. "We created a number of chances and their
keeper had a fantastic game. I thought we weren't going to get anything out
of it but thankfully at the end we got the three point and not just the
one."
You have had a number of injuries to deal with, but Jerry Amoo came in and
scored his first goal of the season, which must be very pleasing?
SP "Yeah, he's been unlucky with injuries, he's missed a large part of the
season. He's come back and he's still regaining fitness really. With his
goal it was good to see him hit it first time with his left foot rather than
take a touch. He put it away well."
We are halfway through the Barclays U18 Premier League with eleven games
played, so how do you assess the team's progress?
SP "We've progressed OK, we had a very good start but we're always hoping
for more. We had a little hiccup results wise at Fulham but otherwise our
performance was good. Against Aston Villa [the previous week, when we lost
3-1] we didn't get a performance or a result we were looking for. But to get
the result against Norwich last Saturday shows we learnt the lessons from
that match so it's good."
You are currently joint-top on 19 points. Does that haul exceed pre-season
expectations?
SP "I didn't really think about any targets before the season. What we look
at is the performances and the efforts the boys are putting in. We have to
look at whether the boys are improving, individually and as a team.
"We also have to consider if they're giving it their best shot which is what
we insist on. If they're not you have to question whether it's worth them
being here. I know that sounds harsh but there are thousands of boys who
would like to be in their position and they've got to make the best of the
opportunity they've got. We've learnt quite a lot about the players this
season, good and bad."
The FA Youth Cup is not far away from getting started, so are you excited
for that?
SP "It's a different competition and opportunity for the boys, they got the
chance to play in the stadium in front of a crowd so it's a good experience.
It's a very tough competition, with the league programme the boys get moved
up and down between the age groups but with the Youth Cup you tend to find
every club puts their best team out so it's a very tough cup to win."
A number of the U18s have moved up into the Development Squad. How do you
think they have coped?
SP "I think they've done OK. It's a big ask to play a few years up but in
reality that's what they need to be doing. They need to prove themselves at
that level before they can go any further."
They have also faced some tough opposition in a strong Manchester United
side and Bilbao Athletic in the Premier League International Cup?
SP "Exactly, and that can only be a good thing for them. Manchester United
are near the top of the division as well as having a number of players with
first team experience in that side. At the other end if you don't put the
ball in the back of the net you're going to pay the price."
A number of players have been awarded their first professional contracts.
That must be testament to their hard work and the good work going on at the
Academy?
SP "It's pleasing. It's another step on the ladder for them really. I think
contracts take care of themselves really. In terms of how well they do in
the future I don't think they need to worry about that too much. At their
age they just need to concentrate on their football and let their
performances do the talking."
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Mediawatch - 5 November
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at the West Ham United stories making the news
05.11.2014
The Sun (£) reports that the Hammers have put a six-year contract on the
table in a bid to keep Winston Reid at the Boleyn Ground.
The Daily Star, meanwhile, say that Reid is set to sign the deal, which will
run until 2019.
BBC Sport carry a story that Diafra Sakho should return to the squad for
Saturday's game against Aston Villa.
A story in the Daily Mail suggests Andy Carroll will play in a behind closed
doors game against Southend United on Wednesday.
Finally, the Southend Echo report that Elliot Lee is out for two months
after suffering a hamstring injury in training with his loan club.
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West Ham contemplate £15million bid for Alex Song
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are willing to match their transfer record in order to sign
Alex Song on a permanent basis. The Cameroon international - who cost
Barcelona £15million in 2012 - has proved an instant hit at the Boleyn
Ground since arriving on a season-long loan on the final day of the summer
transfer window.
And according to a KUMB source, West Ham are prepared to match the
£15million spent on securing the services of Andy Carroll in 2013 in order
to tie the 27-year-old down to a long-term contract. Although it is
understood that West Ham would be willing to make a move for Song as early
as the January transfer window, it is possible that at least one first team
squad member would need to be sold in order to accommodate the former
Arsenal star's financial demands as a result of the current FFP rules
governing club finance.
Those on the fringe of the first team squad, out of contract next summer and
who could theoretically be moved on several months early include Ricardo Vaz
Te, Ravel Morrison, Guy Demel, Carlton Cole and Jussi Jasskelainen. Song has
made just seven appearances for West Ham so far - matches that have produced
four wins (Liverpool, QPR, Burnley, Man City), two draws (Hull, Stoke) and
just the one defeat (Man Utd).
* Did you know? One of Alex Song's sons is called 'Nolan'.
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Injury-hit West Ham striker Andy Carroll makes comeback in
behind-closed-doors friendly
Nov 05, 2014 18:03 By Alex Richards
The £15million man underwent ankle surgery in July and got an hour under his
belt against Southend at the Hammers training ground
The Mirror
West Ham striker Andy Carroll has continued his comeback from injury with a
behind-closed-doors appearance. The England hitman is yet to appear for the
Hammers first XI this term but took part in an hour-long match against
Southend on Wednesday afternoon. Held at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training
ground, Carroll was watched by boss Sam Allardyce and his staff as he
completed the full hour, as he builds up his fitness following ankle surgery
in July. Carroll was joined in the West Ham side by Joey O'Brien, £10million
winger Matt Jarvis, club captain Kevin Nolan and Ricardo Vaz Te, none of
whom have been regulars in the Premier League this term. All five came
through the game without problem, with ex-Wolves man Jarvis getting his name
on the scoresheet in the 1-1 draw, which will be a boost to the fourth-place
Hammers. This weekend they meet Aston Villa at Upton Park, with both Winston
Reid and Diafra Sakho expected to be included in the squad, despite leg and
shoulder injuries respectively.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Two-goal Anderlecht hero Anthony Vanden Borre was 'too fat' for West Ham
Nov 05, 2014 12:05 By Neil McLeman
The Belgian international had a miserable spell in the Premier League as
Portsmouth were relegated before heading on trial to Upton Park
The Mirror
The Anderlecht player who scored twice against Arsenal was rejected by West
Ham for being "too fat". Anthony Vanden Borre was relegated with Portsmouth
in 2009-10 after spending a season on loan at Fratton Park. And he then
failed a trial at Upton Park. And his former Anderlecht team-mate Cheikhou
Kouyate, who joined the Hammers from the Belgian champions in the summer,
said: "My team-mates still remember it. It was during a period where Anthony
was not in good shape and he had a few kilos too many. They said to me that
he was too fat."
But after Vanden Borre's performances in the World Cup and Champions League,
Kouyate said: "They didn't believe me when I said it was the same guy. I
explained to them that he had worked really hard to come back. "They have a
lot of respect for him now. There is even a little bit of disappointment:
they think they missed a great bargain. Anthony would be adored here. I hope
that he will one day come and rejoin me in England."
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OS move raises Hammers job issues
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United will surrender their traditional responsibilities of
"running the show" inside their own ground once they move to the Olympic
Stadium For such duties as stewarding, security, cleaning, maintenance,
catering and a host of other functions will become the responsibility of the
main stadium operator. As we reported yesterday that looks likely to be
French firm Vinci who are believed to have beaten AEG to the contract. The
contract will run for 10 years with an option of renewal of another 15
years.
The scope of Stadium Operator plus contract out to tender includes full
operation of Olympic Stadium for events including stewarding, securing
sporting and entertainment content on other available days, conferencing and
banqueting, delivery of community events, stadium tours, security,
cleaning, maintenance, licencing, contract management and catering at all
events held at the Stadium including both hospitality and general admission
spectators.
West Ham currently employs 800 people, full and part time but many of those
jobs will now be allotted by the stadium operator thus creating much
uncertainty among those currently employed! Those include hundreds of part
time match day, and some full time staff, currently employed by the club in
steward, security and stadium maintenance roles.
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Sam and Winston's positions may be linked
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I've just come off the phone from an old pro who posed a very interesting
question: "Is Winston Reid's reluctance to sign a new deal linked to the
uncertainty surrounding Sam Allardyce's position?" It's a scenario that's
worth considering although all the sounds coming out of the club are that
the central defender is determined to study every option available before
finally deciding what he wants to do. He has Europe on his mind and with
both Manchester United and Arsenal looking in need of a decent central
defender he's clearly not going to be rushed into putting pen to paper.
However, despite having been offered around £60k a week (and that is the
correct figure – not the reported £75k), other issues enter may enter a
players mind.
And this former Hammers player said: "Winston's coming to the end of a deal
as is the manager and the defender may be wondering what happens if he signs
and a new manager doesn't fancy him." Fair point! Personally, I don't
believe the two positions are linked or that Winston and Sam are joined at
the hip. But I reckon it may be an idea to sort future the managerial
positions out by offering one year rolling deals. Top players coming out of
contract then know that the boss' position is as safe as it can get so long
as he is doing the business and it makes the pay off cheaper if things do go
very wrong.
Meanwhile, the talking goes on!
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Reid: The real truth on 'talks'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that Winston Reid is set to sign a new Hammers deal is false as
things stand at the moment. Tabloid newspapers have been "revealing" the
player has made up his mind to sign a new deal at around £75k a week. But
ClaretandHugh has learned that whilst talks are continuing with the player's
agent, declarations of the player's intentions are "entirely premature."
We were told last evening the central defender had been encouraged by the
club's ambitions this season which is entirely the case but at this stage he
continues to study all his options. The board still have had no reaction
from the player's agent on the offer made several weeks ago and we were told
this morning: "We will continue to strive to get a deal but newspaper
speculation is well wide of the mark.
"To suggest the club are offering £75k a week is just wrong – it's not that
high."
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Cottee Column: This West Ham has a new steel about it
13:17 05 November 2014
London24
Tony Cottee
When we went two down at Stoke City on Saturday, I, like a lot of West Ham
fans, thought that was it, back to the bad old days and a bad defeat. But we
forgot about this new Hammers side. Stoke were the better team for 60
minutes of this match, but the Hammers this season have a new steel, they
score goals and they create chances and you have to say that it was
definitely a point gained by the end. There are some places that you go that
you don't expect to get anything, like Man City, Chelsea and with us
Liverpool, but Stoke are not far behind that on their own pitch, so to get a
result was superb. I have to say that I would have preferred Sam to stick
with his two up front for this game.
Players like to keep things simple and they have been playing with two-up
and with a diamond allowing the full backs to get forward and it has worked
superbly. When you change things, players start to wonder what they are
doing, which role they are playing and that was what happened on Saturday
until Sam changed things round. I would have just swapped Carlton Cole for
Diafra Sakho. One of the great beneficiaries of the new diamond has been
Stewart Downing and you have to say he is a revelation this season. No-one
doubts his ability as a footballer, but you can be marked out of the game on
the wing, especially with the service he was given last season, now he is in
all the time. We may have stumbled upon his new position, but Stuart has
taken full advantage of it and I think he deserves a place in the England
squad as well as Mark Noble in my opinion.
Jordan Henderson is in the squad, but I feel that Stewart it better player
technically than him. Villa come to Upton Park on Saturday and you have to
say there may not be a better time to play against them. They have lost six
on the trot and only scored one goal. When I heard Christian Benteke had
been sent off I thought that is good for West Ham too. They have decent
players like Gabriel Agbonlahor, but these are the sorts of games we need
to win if we are to establish ourselves in the top six. I remember Villa
coming to us during the 85/86 season and us beating them 4-0. That is the
sort of emphatic result we need.
I am going for a 3-0 win!
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Former West Ham goalkeeper David James forced to auction memorabilia
By SimonMurfitt1 | Posted: November 05, 2014
David James made 53 appearances for England
www.brentwoodgazette.co.uk
Former West Ham and England goalkeeper David James is being forced to
auction off his football memorabilia after being declared bankrupt.
More than 150 signed shirts, shorts and match balls will be sold online
after the 44-year-old was declared bankrupt despite earning around £20
million during a career that saw him win 53 England caps. James' financial
problems are reportedly largely down to his costly divorce from wife Tanya
in 2005. The lots due to be sold off at hilcoind.co.uk from November 18 will
include James' jersey from England's 4-1 thrashing by Germany in the 2010
World Cup second round. An England shirt signed by Wayne Rooney and other
teammates is also available, as well as the shirt he wore in the FA Cup
final with Portsmouth and signed shirts from his time at Liverpool in the
1990s. James, who was awarded an MBE in 2012 for his services to football
and charity, currently plays as a goalkeeper and manages Kerala Blasters FC
in the Indian Super League. The keeper, who made 90 appearances for West Ham
from 2001 to 2004, is also a regular pundit on BT Sport's football coverage.
He currently sits third on the list of all-time Premier League appearances,
having played 536 games at the top-level and he holds the Premier League
record for most clean sheets, with 173.
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WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll completed 60 minutes of a behind-closed-doors match with
Southend United on Wednesday
05.11.2014
Andy Carroll continued his comeback from injury by featuring in a
behind-closed-doors meeting with Southend United on Wednesday. The 60-minute
training match, which was held at West Ham United's Chadwell Heath training
ground, saw Carroll complete the full hour under the watchful eye of manager
Sam Allardyce and his staff. Carroll, who has not featured for the first
team this season following ankle surgery in the United States in July, was
joined in the Hammers side by Joey O'Brien, Matt Jarvis, Kevin Nolan and
Ricardo Vaz Te. All five came through unscathed will have benefited from
time on the pitch in a match environment against an energetic Southend
outfit, with winger Jarvis getting his name on the scoresheet. The news
comes as a further boost to Big Sam, who expects to include Diafra Sakho
(shoulder) and Winston Reid (dead leg) in his squad for Saturday's Barclays
Premier League fixture with Aston Villa at the Boleyn Ground.
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Sam excited by international stars
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce has welcomed West Ham United's decision to host a friendly
between Argentina and Croatia
05.11.2014
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has welcomed the Club's decision to
host the exciting international friendly between Argentina and Croatia. The
fixture, which will take place at the Boleyn Ground on the evening of
Wednesday 12 November, could see the likes of Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez,
Luka Modric and Mario Mandzukic appear at the home of the Hammers. With
tickets priced at just £25 for Adults and £15 for concessions, Big Sam said
the whole family could enjoy a night under the floodlights watching some of
the finest players in the world.
"I must say I think this is yet another exciting event at an exciting time
for West Ham United," he enthused. "For most football fans, the opportunity
to see the likes of Lionel Messi in action in the flesh is one they would
not want to miss. He does not play on English soil too often, so this is a
chance to see one of the greatest players who has ever kicked a football on
the pitch, live. "Messi will not be the only star in action, either.
Argentina have got some fantastic players, as was illustrated by them
reaching the World Cup final just a few months ago. Croatia, too, have some
very talented individuals with the likes of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic, so
this is going to be a very competitive fixture between two top international
sides. "I understand that ticket prices have been set at a very competitive
level, meaning families can bring their children down to watch some of the
best players in the world in action in our stadium. "I am sure the Argentina
and Croatia fans will make for quite an atmosphere, too, so the stage is
certainly set for a unique occasion."
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Mavila ready for Canaries
WHUFC.com
The Development Squad's Nathan Mavila is looking for a win against Norwich
City
05.11.2014
West Ham United Development Squad's Nathan Mavila is looking forward to
facing Norwich City as the Hammers travel to the Canaries' Colney training
ground on Thursday fpr a 1pm kick-off The versatile 19-year-old is one of a
number of players to progress to the Dev Squad after making 29 appearances
for the U18s last season. Mavila scored against Norwich on his Hammers debut
almost two years ago. Speaking ahead of the clash with the Canaries, he
said: "I'm excited for the game, I'm really looking forward to it to be
fair. "Norwich are a very exciting team. They're a very strong attacking
side with the two wingers Josh and Jacob Murphy. We know they're a good side
and it'll be a tough game."
Last time out the Hammers narrowly lost 2-1 to an experienced Manchester
United team which included the likes of Michael Carrick, Tyler Blackett and
James Wilson. "It was really good to face players who have played in the
first team and in the Premier League. To play against the likes of Michael
Carrick and Tyler Blackett was a good test and one we'll learn from. I think
despite losing we did well."
The Dev Squad's recent good performances have yet to translate into points
and the Hammers find themselves at the foot of the table while their
opponents, Norwich, are just two points ahead. "We haven't got off to the
start we quite wanted results wise. Performance wise we started off slowly
but I think we're getting better. We're quite a young squad with more
younger players coming through."
Among the younger players who have been involved in the Dev Squad are Josh
Pask who recently signed his first professional contract and Reece Oxford
who captained the England U17s last week. "I think the younger players have
coped pretty well to be fair, the centre backs Josh Pask, Manny Onariase and
Reece Oxford particularly have all done well so far, hopefully that
continues."
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The Big Interview - Steve Potts
WHUFC.com
West Ham United U18s manager assesses his side's season so far
04.11.2014
Steve Potts' West Ham United U18s have made a fantastic start to their
league season having taken 19 points from their first eleven games. This
impressive vein of form coincided with a eight-game unbeaten run at the
start of the season. As a West Ham player Potts made 506 first team
appearances, and he currently holds the Club's record of Premier League
appearances. As the U18s approach the half way point of their league
season, we caught up with the two time Hammer of the Year winner.
Steve, your U18s got back to winning ways against Norwich City with a 1-0
victory on Saturday. What did you make of the game?
SP "I thought we played very well, we controlled a lot of the game better
than we had been doing earlier in the season. Even though we were winning
games I still I wasn't happy enough, but on Saturday we got a lot of the
ball and moved it around well. "We created a number of chances and their
keeper had a fantastic game. I thought we weren't going to get anything out
of it but thankfully at the end we got the three point and not just the
one."
You have had a number of injuries to deal with, but Jerry Amoo came in and
scored his first goal of the season, which must be very pleasing?
SP "Yeah, he's been unlucky with injuries, he's missed a large part of the
season. He's come back and he's still regaining fitness really. With his
goal it was good to see him hit it first time with his left foot rather than
take a touch. He put it away well."
We are halfway through the Barclays U18 Premier League with eleven games
played, so how do you assess the team's progress?
SP "We've progressed OK, we had a very good start but we're always hoping
for more. We had a little hiccup results wise at Fulham but otherwise our
performance was good. Against Aston Villa [the previous week, when we lost
3-1] we didn't get a performance or a result we were looking for. But to get
the result against Norwich last Saturday shows we learnt the lessons from
that match so it's good."
You are currently joint-top on 19 points. Does that haul exceed pre-season
expectations?
SP "I didn't really think about any targets before the season. What we look
at is the performances and the efforts the boys are putting in. We have to
look at whether the boys are improving, individually and as a team.
"We also have to consider if they're giving it their best shot which is what
we insist on. If they're not you have to question whether it's worth them
being here. I know that sounds harsh but there are thousands of boys who
would like to be in their position and they've got to make the best of the
opportunity they've got. We've learnt quite a lot about the players this
season, good and bad."
The FA Youth Cup is not far away from getting started, so are you excited
for that?
SP "It's a different competition and opportunity for the boys, they got the
chance to play in the stadium in front of a crowd so it's a good experience.
It's a very tough competition, with the league programme the boys get moved
up and down between the age groups but with the Youth Cup you tend to find
every club puts their best team out so it's a very tough cup to win."
A number of the U18s have moved up into the Development Squad. How do you
think they have coped?
SP "I think they've done OK. It's a big ask to play a few years up but in
reality that's what they need to be doing. They need to prove themselves at
that level before they can go any further."
They have also faced some tough opposition in a strong Manchester United
side and Bilbao Athletic in the Premier League International Cup?
SP "Exactly, and that can only be a good thing for them. Manchester United
are near the top of the division as well as having a number of players with
first team experience in that side. At the other end if you don't put the
ball in the back of the net you're going to pay the price."
A number of players have been awarded their first professional contracts.
That must be testament to their hard work and the good work going on at the
Academy?
SP "It's pleasing. It's another step on the ladder for them really. I think
contracts take care of themselves really. In terms of how well they do in
the future I don't think they need to worry about that too much. At their
age they just need to concentrate on their football and let their
performances do the talking."
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Mediawatch - 5 November
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at the West Ham United stories making the news
05.11.2014
The Sun (£) reports that the Hammers have put a six-year contract on the
table in a bid to keep Winston Reid at the Boleyn Ground.
The Daily Star, meanwhile, say that Reid is set to sign the deal, which will
run until 2019.
BBC Sport carry a story that Diafra Sakho should return to the squad for
Saturday's game against Aston Villa.
A story in the Daily Mail suggests Andy Carroll will play in a behind closed
doors game against Southend United on Wednesday.
Finally, the Southend Echo report that Elliot Lee is out for two months
after suffering a hamstring injury in training with his loan club.
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West Ham contemplate £15million bid for Alex Song
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are willing to match their transfer record in order to sign
Alex Song on a permanent basis. The Cameroon international - who cost
Barcelona £15million in 2012 - has proved an instant hit at the Boleyn
Ground since arriving on a season-long loan on the final day of the summer
transfer window.
And according to a KUMB source, West Ham are prepared to match the
£15million spent on securing the services of Andy Carroll in 2013 in order
to tie the 27-year-old down to a long-term contract. Although it is
understood that West Ham would be willing to make a move for Song as early
as the January transfer window, it is possible that at least one first team
squad member would need to be sold in order to accommodate the former
Arsenal star's financial demands as a result of the current FFP rules
governing club finance.
Those on the fringe of the first team squad, out of contract next summer and
who could theoretically be moved on several months early include Ricardo Vaz
Te, Ravel Morrison, Guy Demel, Carlton Cole and Jussi Jasskelainen. Song has
made just seven appearances for West Ham so far - matches that have produced
four wins (Liverpool, QPR, Burnley, Man City), two draws (Hull, Stoke) and
just the one defeat (Man Utd).
* Did you know? One of Alex Song's sons is called 'Nolan'.
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Injury-hit West Ham striker Andy Carroll makes comeback in
behind-closed-doors friendly
Nov 05, 2014 18:03 By Alex Richards
The £15million man underwent ankle surgery in July and got an hour under his
belt against Southend at the Hammers training ground
The Mirror
West Ham striker Andy Carroll has continued his comeback from injury with a
behind-closed-doors appearance. The England hitman is yet to appear for the
Hammers first XI this term but took part in an hour-long match against
Southend on Wednesday afternoon. Held at West Ham's Chadwell Heath training
ground, Carroll was watched by boss Sam Allardyce and his staff as he
completed the full hour, as he builds up his fitness following ankle surgery
in July. Carroll was joined in the West Ham side by Joey O'Brien, £10million
winger Matt Jarvis, club captain Kevin Nolan and Ricardo Vaz Te, none of
whom have been regulars in the Premier League this term. All five came
through the game without problem, with ex-Wolves man Jarvis getting his name
on the scoresheet in the 1-1 draw, which will be a boost to the fourth-place
Hammers. This weekend they meet Aston Villa at Upton Park, with both Winston
Reid and Diafra Sakho expected to be included in the squad, despite leg and
shoulder injuries respectively.
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Two-goal Anderlecht hero Anthony Vanden Borre was 'too fat' for West Ham
Nov 05, 2014 12:05 By Neil McLeman
The Belgian international had a miserable spell in the Premier League as
Portsmouth were relegated before heading on trial to Upton Park
The Mirror
The Anderlecht player who scored twice against Arsenal was rejected by West
Ham for being "too fat". Anthony Vanden Borre was relegated with Portsmouth
in 2009-10 after spending a season on loan at Fratton Park. And he then
failed a trial at Upton Park. And his former Anderlecht team-mate Cheikhou
Kouyate, who joined the Hammers from the Belgian champions in the summer,
said: "My team-mates still remember it. It was during a period where Anthony
was not in good shape and he had a few kilos too many. They said to me that
he was too fat."
But after Vanden Borre's performances in the World Cup and Champions League,
Kouyate said: "They didn't believe me when I said it was the same guy. I
explained to them that he had worked really hard to come back. "They have a
lot of respect for him now. There is even a little bit of disappointment:
they think they missed a great bargain. Anthony would be adored here. I hope
that he will one day come and rejoin me in England."
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OS move raises Hammers job issues
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham United will surrender their traditional responsibilities of
"running the show" inside their own ground once they move to the Olympic
Stadium For such duties as stewarding, security, cleaning, maintenance,
catering and a host of other functions will become the responsibility of the
main stadium operator. As we reported yesterday that looks likely to be
French firm Vinci who are believed to have beaten AEG to the contract. The
contract will run for 10 years with an option of renewal of another 15
years.
The scope of Stadium Operator plus contract out to tender includes full
operation of Olympic Stadium for events including stewarding, securing
sporting and entertainment content on other available days, conferencing and
banqueting, delivery of community events, stadium tours, security,
cleaning, maintenance, licencing, contract management and catering at all
events held at the Stadium including both hospitality and general admission
spectators.
West Ham currently employs 800 people, full and part time but many of those
jobs will now be allotted by the stadium operator thus creating much
uncertainty among those currently employed! Those include hundreds of part
time match day, and some full time staff, currently employed by the club in
steward, security and stadium maintenance roles.
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Sam and Winston's positions may be linked
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I've just come off the phone from an old pro who posed a very interesting
question: "Is Winston Reid's reluctance to sign a new deal linked to the
uncertainty surrounding Sam Allardyce's position?" It's a scenario that's
worth considering although all the sounds coming out of the club are that
the central defender is determined to study every option available before
finally deciding what he wants to do. He has Europe on his mind and with
both Manchester United and Arsenal looking in need of a decent central
defender he's clearly not going to be rushed into putting pen to paper.
However, despite having been offered around £60k a week (and that is the
correct figure – not the reported £75k), other issues enter may enter a
players mind.
And this former Hammers player said: "Winston's coming to the end of a deal
as is the manager and the defender may be wondering what happens if he signs
and a new manager doesn't fancy him." Fair point! Personally, I don't
believe the two positions are linked or that Winston and Sam are joined at
the hip. But I reckon it may be an idea to sort future the managerial
positions out by offering one year rolling deals. Top players coming out of
contract then know that the boss' position is as safe as it can get so long
as he is doing the business and it makes the pay off cheaper if things do go
very wrong.
Meanwhile, the talking goes on!
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Reid: The real truth on 'talks'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 5, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that Winston Reid is set to sign a new Hammers deal is false as
things stand at the moment. Tabloid newspapers have been "revealing" the
player has made up his mind to sign a new deal at around £75k a week. But
ClaretandHugh has learned that whilst talks are continuing with the player's
agent, declarations of the player's intentions are "entirely premature."
We were told last evening the central defender had been encouraged by the
club's ambitions this season which is entirely the case but at this stage he
continues to study all his options. The board still have had no reaction
from the player's agent on the offer made several weeks ago and we were told
this morning: "We will continue to strive to get a deal but newspaper
speculation is well wide of the mark.
"To suggest the club are offering £75k a week is just wrong – it's not that
high."
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Cottee Column: This West Ham has a new steel about it
13:17 05 November 2014
London24
Tony Cottee
When we went two down at Stoke City on Saturday, I, like a lot of West Ham
fans, thought that was it, back to the bad old days and a bad defeat. But we
forgot about this new Hammers side. Stoke were the better team for 60
minutes of this match, but the Hammers this season have a new steel, they
score goals and they create chances and you have to say that it was
definitely a point gained by the end. There are some places that you go that
you don't expect to get anything, like Man City, Chelsea and with us
Liverpool, but Stoke are not far behind that on their own pitch, so to get a
result was superb. I have to say that I would have preferred Sam to stick
with his two up front for this game.
Players like to keep things simple and they have been playing with two-up
and with a diamond allowing the full backs to get forward and it has worked
superbly. When you change things, players start to wonder what they are
doing, which role they are playing and that was what happened on Saturday
until Sam changed things round. I would have just swapped Carlton Cole for
Diafra Sakho. One of the great beneficiaries of the new diamond has been
Stewart Downing and you have to say he is a revelation this season. No-one
doubts his ability as a footballer, but you can be marked out of the game on
the wing, especially with the service he was given last season, now he is in
all the time. We may have stumbled upon his new position, but Stuart has
taken full advantage of it and I think he deserves a place in the England
squad as well as Mark Noble in my opinion.
Jordan Henderson is in the squad, but I feel that Stewart it better player
technically than him. Villa come to Upton Park on Saturday and you have to
say there may not be a better time to play against them. They have lost six
on the trot and only scored one goal. When I heard Christian Benteke had
been sent off I thought that is good for West Ham too. They have decent
players like Gabriel Agbonlahor, but these are the sorts of games we need
to win if we are to establish ourselves in the top six. I remember Villa
coming to us during the 85/86 season and us beating them 4-0. That is the
sort of emphatic result we need.
I am going for a 3-0 win!
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Former West Ham goalkeeper David James forced to auction memorabilia
By SimonMurfitt1 | Posted: November 05, 2014
David James made 53 appearances for England
www.brentwoodgazette.co.uk
Former West Ham and England goalkeeper David James is being forced to
auction off his football memorabilia after being declared bankrupt.
More than 150 signed shirts, shorts and match balls will be sold online
after the 44-year-old was declared bankrupt despite earning around £20
million during a career that saw him win 53 England caps. James' financial
problems are reportedly largely down to his costly divorce from wife Tanya
in 2005. The lots due to be sold off at hilcoind.co.uk from November 18 will
include James' jersey from England's 4-1 thrashing by Germany in the 2010
World Cup second round. An England shirt signed by Wayne Rooney and other
teammates is also available, as well as the shirt he wore in the FA Cup
final with Portsmouth and signed shirts from his time at Liverpool in the
1990s. James, who was awarded an MBE in 2012 for his services to football
and charity, currently plays as a goalkeeper and manages Kerala Blasters FC
in the Indian Super League. The keeper, who made 90 appearances for West Ham
from 2001 to 2004, is also a regular pundit on BT Sport's football coverage.
He currently sits third on the list of all-time Premier League appearances,
having played 536 games at the top-level and he holds the Premier League
record for most clean sheets, with 173.
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Wednesday, November 5
Daily WHUFC News - 5th November 2014
Sakho and Reid set to face Villans
WHUFC.com
West Ham United have been handed a double injury boost ahead of Saturday's clash with Aston Villa
03.11.2014
West Ham United have been handed a double injury boost with news that Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid should both be fit to face Aston Villa. With Andy Carroll also edging ever closer to a return following his recovery from a long-term ankle problem, manager Sam Allardyce could have a selection headache come Saturday afternoon. Sakho missed Saturday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw at Stoke City with the shoulder injury he suffered late in the home win over Manchester City on 25 October. Reid, meanwhile, was forced off with a dead leg midway through the first half at the Britannia Stadium following a collision with Potters midfielder Steven N'Zonzi. However, Hammers Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke confirmed that both will be available to face the Villans, barring any unforeseen setbacks. "Winston came out of the game with a dead leg," Vandenbroucke confirmed. "He did not train on Monday but will train later in the week and will be available for the game on Saturday. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will also be available for the game. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came though, and will continue to train this week. "Guy Demel is suffering from a thigh problem, but we hope to have him available following the international break."
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Best honoured in Bermuda
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Clyde Best has been honoured in his hometown in Bermuda
04.11.2014
Former West Ham United striker Clyde Best has had a road named after him in his native Bermuda, celebrating his contribution to Bermudan sport. Best joined the Hammers in 1969 before going on to score 58 goals in 213 appearances for the Club. A hugely popular figure in Bermuda, in east London and beyond, he became the second-ever black player, after John Charles, to play for West Ham. After leaving the Boleyn Ground in 1976, he played in North America for a number of different clubs, including the Portland Timbers, as well as a brief stint with Feyenoord in Holland. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in his hometown of Somerset, Bermuda, the 63-year-old said "It's a great thing to have done, not only for me but for those that set the stage for me."
In front of an audience including his wife Alfreda, family members and an array of politicians, sportspeople and public figures, Best continued: "It's never been about me. It's been about the people of Bermuda. I thank you from the bottom of my heart — all the fans, all the people that have supported me all of the years. Let us continue to do the good work."
Also speaking at the ceremony was Bermudan Sports Minister Wayne Scott, who said: "It's great to see so many people out here — it speaks to the significance of what Clyde Best means to our community. Clyde is arguably one of the greatest sportsmen Bermuda ever produced."
Alongside the renaming of the road just outside Somerset Cricket Club, Alfred Maybury, the Club's president explained November 1 would become known as Clyde Best Day. "I'm going to thank you for coming in recognition of what we are trying to do and know that this is not the end. "There are people previously that have battled for us, for Somerset and Bermuda, that we need to start recognising and making sure that when the generations come behind, they know the part they played in this community and this country."
Best's status as a national hero has previously been celebrated as he joined the National Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 and was awarded an MBE in 2006. Two years later, the world governing body of football, FIFA, awarded Best the order of merit.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho back for Aston Villa match on Saturday
BBC.co.uk
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho is set to return for Saturday's Premier League match against Aston Villa. The summer arrival from Metz was forced to sit out the Hammers 2-2 draw at Stoke on Saturday after injuring his shoulder in the victory over reigning champions Manchester City. Sakho scored the winner as West Ham won 2-1 against City on October 25 but later collided with Joe Hart. The Senegal international has hit six goals in his first six league starts. Sakho was not risked at the Britannia Stadium as Sam Allardyce's side came from two
goals down to take a point and it was feared he might be out for a month.
But Stijn Vandenbroucke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday - and also confirmed club-record signing Andy Carroll is closing in on a first-team return having been ruled out since a pre-season ankle operation. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game," Vandenbroucke told the club's official website. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came though, and will continue to train this week."
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Winston Reid agrees new contract, says Star
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
It's not one we can confirm or deny at present, but a tabloid is claiming tonight that Winston Reid is on the verge of signing a new contract with West Ham. Alex Harris, writing for the Daily Star insists that Reid is on the verge of snubbing the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal by putting pen to paper on a new four-year contract with West Ham. "According to reports, the Hammers defender is set to sign a new deal until 2019," wrote Harris tonight in a piece published by the tabloid. That comes just three weeks after co-chairman David Gold revealed that the New Zealand international had been offered a new, improved deal. "We hope to keep him and have made him a very competitive offer," said DG, speaking last month - although there had been no further developments until tonight. Reid moved to West Ham in a £4million switch from Danish club Midtjylland in 2010, following a successful World Cup campaign during which he scored for New Zealand. Having initially struggled to hold a first team place down, following the departure of Avram Grant he became a staple in Allardyce's defence and has gone on to make 111 appearances for West Ham. In recent months he has been linked with a string of top tier clubs and despite having been offered improved terms to extend his stay, had refused to sign a new deal with West Ham. It is rumoured that Reid is seeking circa £80,000 per week; West Ham's recent offer is said to fall some way short of that at circa £60,000 per week.
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Sakh back to make Villa crack
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho is set to return to West Ham's starting line-up this weekend when struggling Aston Villa visit the Boleyn Ground. Sakho, who has scored in every match he has started for West Ham since signing from Metz in the summer missed last weekend's 2-2 draw at Stoke with a shoulder problem. However the striker - who was ruled out of the trip to the Britannia after a late fitness test on Friday afternoon - is expected to once again line up alongside striker partner Enner Valencia when the under-fire Paul Lambert brings his side to London. "We think Sakho will be back for the next game," confirmed manager Sam Allardyce. "There's no dislocation; it's a cartilage problem so it's bruised and the pain is still pretty tender but it's getting better every day and hopefully he'll be back."
With Sakho's striker partner Andy Carroll - who he is yet to play alongside - also on the cusp of returning from injury, Sam Allardyce could face the prospect of having a full fit squad to choose from for the first time in 2014 within the next few weeks. Meanwhile the under-pressure Lambert, whose Villa side have lost their last six consecutive Premier League outings will have to do without key striker Christian Benteke when they travel to Upton Park. The Belgian international was sent off for violent conduct during the 2-1 defeat at home to Tottenham on Sunday and now faces a three-match ban, which begins this weekend.
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Lee returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Elliot Lee has returned to West Ham - just three days after joining League Two Southend on a three-month loan. The 19-year-old striker completed the switch to Roots Hall ahead of last weekend's fixtures in order to gain some much-needed first team football in the fourth tier. However disaster apparently struck less than an hour into his first full training session, according to Southend manager Phil Brown.
"Elliot came to us fully fit but 35 minutes in to his first session he pulled up with a muscle strain," Brown told the Echo. "He's gone back to get that assessed at West Ham and will have a scan today. That will tell us more, hopefully it won't be too bad."
Just minutes after Lee's temporary transfer was confirmed on Friday morning, the striker took to Twitter to post a comment stating "how's my luck?" - followed by two sad emoticons. Later in the day that message was removed, which led to speculation suggesting that the striker may have sustained an injury - as confirmed some 48 hours later.
Elliot Lee ✔ @ElliotLee9
Gutted to pick up an injury yesterday in training. Fingers crossed it isn't too serious and I can get back to @SUFCRootsHall ASAP! 😤🙏⚽️
Lee had been in line to make his debut for the Blues at Mansfield last weekend, but could now be forced to wait several weeks before being able to do so. He previously spent time on loan at Colchester (2013/14 season) when he made four appearances during a one-month spell with the League One side and has made just two first team appearances for West Ham thus far, despite having been on the fringes of the first team squad for the last 18 months or so. Lee made his first team debut at West Ham in the 1-0 FA Cup defeat at Manchester United in January 2013, before making his only Premier League appearance so far as a late sub in a 1-0 home defeat to Stoke in August of the same year.
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Diafra Sakho set for Saturday return from injury for West Ham
Last Updated: 04/11/14 1:28pm
SSN
West Ham's top striker Diafra Sakho looks set to return against Aston Villa on Saturday after recovering from a shoulder injury. Sakho has scored seven goals in his first seven games in all competitions for West Ham since joining the club from Metz in the summer. He picked up the shoulder injury in the Hammers' recent victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City and was forced to sit out the 2-2 draw at Stoke over the weekend. West Ham on Tuesday said he has recovered from the injury and is in line to return to the squad for the Premier League match against Aston Villa at Upton Park. The 24-year-old scored the crucial second goal when West Ham defeated City 2-1 at home on October 25. A collision with City goalkeeper Joe Hart led to Sakho being substituted and he was not risked at the Britannia Stadium as Sam Allardyce's side came from two goals down to take a point. But Stijn Vandenbrouke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday - and also confirmed club-record signing Andy Carroll is closing in on a first-team return having been ruled out since a pre-season ankle operation. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game," Vandenbroucke told the club's official website. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came through, and will continue to train this week."
Allardyce will be further boosted by the news Winston Reid will also be available to take on out-of-form Villa after the New Zealand international suffered a dead leg at Stoke. The point against Mark Hughes' side leaves West Ham fifth in the table, level with Arsenal having won half of their opening 10 fixtures . Sakho made his international debut for Senegal in a friendly in May this year but, because he has not yet played a competitive international for the country of his birth, is still eligible to play for France.
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Reid rumours on rise again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 4, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Winston Reid "will he won't he" guessing game emerged again this evening when a national tabloid claimed the central defender will sign a new four year deal with the Hammers. The story opens with the announcement: "According to reports, the Hammers defender is set to sign a new deal until 2019. It then claims this will come as a blow to Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, "who have been keeping tabs on his situation."
And it's followed with some previously published quotes from Sam Allardyce which say: "It's not that he doesn't want to stay. It's about the financial remuneration and whether they can come to the right level, give or take or negotiation that gets us to a point where he will say, 'yes'."
Unfortunately what the story doesn't do is provide any quotes from Reid, his adviser or even an Upton Park insider claiming a deal is close. All a bit bizarre! The first two paragraphs are simply allowed to stand as statements of fact and although every Iron in the country will want to believe the story it would be nice to see some more meat on the bone. Since checking the story over the last half an hour we have been told again the Hammers offer to the player is in the region of £60k but that – despite Sam's comments – the scenario was not solely about personal terms. Reid is also keenm for European football. And in the last few minutes we were told: "There's more hope as Winston can see the progress being made this season both on the pitch and the development of the Rush Green Training Centre. He sees a club with ambition moving on in all directions "Also, there have been no enquries for the player either formally or informally."
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French firm favourites to run OS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 4, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
AEG and French firm Vinci are going toe to toe to become the main operator of the Olympic Stadium. The process is nearing completion with an announcement by the London Legacy Development Corporation expected in the next few weeks. Word is that Vinci will be announced as the preferred bidder of the 10 year contract to manage the Olympic Stadium with AEG finishing a close second. AEG currently manages the O2 and initially suggested a failed joint venture with Spurs to knock down the Olympic Stadium and rebuild the stadium. Vinci is a large construction and facilities management company which already runs stadiums including Paris's Parc des Princes venue, Stade de France, M M Arena and the Allianz Riviera. Vinci Concessions is primarily active in airports, motorways and road infrastructure, rail infrastructure, stadiums and parking. The winner of the contract will be responsible for staging concerts, corporate events and working with the stadium's new concessionaire West Ham United from 2016. It will be this management company who will have the responsibility on any future ground sharing arrangements with West Ham.
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West Ham ace set to snub reported Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United interest
Freddie Shires
HITC
West Ham United's in-demand centre-back Winston Reid is on the verge of signing a new deal at the club, according to reports.
Winston Reid is set to end speculation surrounding his West Ham United future and sign a new deal until 2019, according to a report from the Daily Star. Reid, 26, had entered the final season of his contract at Upton Park, and the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United were all understood to be keeping tabs on the situation, in preparation for a potential approach in the coming transfer window.
The Gunners were even said to have made a late bid for the New Zealand captain at the summer deadline, and West Ham boss Sam Allardyce admitted only last month that he wasn't sure whether the club would be able to keep hold of their star centre-back. 'It is not only a concern for me, but it is a concern for the owners,' he said. 'There's been talk about Winston and his contract for a pretty long period now. 'It's not that he doesn't want to stay. It's about the financial remuneration and whether they can come to the right level, give or take or negotiation that gets us to a point where he will say, "yes". 'That's always the hard bit. It's always a difficult negotiation. If we could tie him up tomorrow then I think the owners particularly and myself would like that and not have it lingering. 'Hopefully sooner rather than later that will come to a conclusion and a positive one. I can only hope that is going to be a positive result in the end.' Reid has played 115 games for West Ham since arriving from Danish club FC Midtjylland in August 2010, following an impressive World Cup campaign, and was named Hammer of the Year for the 2012-13 season after helping the side to a 10th-place finish in their top-flight return. With Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool all needing help at the back, he could have proven an excellent low-cost addition, but it now looks like the three will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements.
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Andy Carroll set to return from ankle injury in West Ham practice match almost six months after last playing in Premier League
West Ham's Andy Carroll is primed to play against Southend on Wednesday
The England international has been absent with an ankle injury
Carroll recently proposed to girlfriend Billi Mucklow in Rome
By MATT LAWTON FOR MAIL ONLINE
PUBLISHED: 15:11, 4 November 2014 | UPDATED: 22:05, 4 November 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham striker Andy Carroll is set to make his return from injury in a practice match on Wednesday against Southend at Chadwell Heath.
The England international is yet to feature this season due to an ankle injury but is primed to play. Club-record signing Carroll will make his eagerly-anticipated return barring any last-minute setbacks almost six months after last featuring for West Ham against Manchester City on May 11. Meanwhile, Diafra Sakho has recovered from a shoulder injury and is in line to make a welcome return to the squad for Saturday's Barclays Premier League match against Aston Villa. The summer arrival from Metz was forced to sit out the 2-2 draw at Stoke over the weekend after suffering the knock in the recent victory over reigning champions Manchester City. Stijn Vandenbrouke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday. 'Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game,' Vandenbroucke told the club's official website.
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And here's something you don't see everyday.. Miaga scoring twice in a game!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiBeoiSeeCc&feature=player_embedded
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United have been handed a double injury boost ahead of Saturday's clash with Aston Villa
03.11.2014
West Ham United have been handed a double injury boost with news that Diafra Sakho and Winston Reid should both be fit to face Aston Villa. With Andy Carroll also edging ever closer to a return following his recovery from a long-term ankle problem, manager Sam Allardyce could have a selection headache come Saturday afternoon. Sakho missed Saturday's 2-2 Barclays Premier League draw at Stoke City with the shoulder injury he suffered late in the home win over Manchester City on 25 October. Reid, meanwhile, was forced off with a dead leg midway through the first half at the Britannia Stadium following a collision with Potters midfielder Steven N'Zonzi. However, Hammers Head of Medical and Sports Science Stijn Vandenbroucke confirmed that both will be available to face the Villans, barring any unforeseen setbacks. "Winston came out of the game with a dead leg," Vandenbroucke confirmed. "He did not train on Monday but will train later in the week and will be available for the game on Saturday. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will also be available for the game. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came though, and will continue to train this week. "Guy Demel is suffering from a thigh problem, but we hope to have him available following the international break."
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Best honoured in Bermuda
WHUFC.com
West Ham United legend Clyde Best has been honoured in his hometown in Bermuda
04.11.2014
Former West Ham United striker Clyde Best has had a road named after him in his native Bermuda, celebrating his contribution to Bermudan sport. Best joined the Hammers in 1969 before going on to score 58 goals in 213 appearances for the Club. A hugely popular figure in Bermuda, in east London and beyond, he became the second-ever black player, after John Charles, to play for West Ham. After leaving the Boleyn Ground in 1976, he played in North America for a number of different clubs, including the Portland Timbers, as well as a brief stint with Feyenoord in Holland. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in his hometown of Somerset, Bermuda, the 63-year-old said "It's a great thing to have done, not only for me but for those that set the stage for me."
In front of an audience including his wife Alfreda, family members and an array of politicians, sportspeople and public figures, Best continued: "It's never been about me. It's been about the people of Bermuda. I thank you from the bottom of my heart — all the fans, all the people that have supported me all of the years. Let us continue to do the good work."
Also speaking at the ceremony was Bermudan Sports Minister Wayne Scott, who said: "It's great to see so many people out here — it speaks to the significance of what Clyde Best means to our community. Clyde is arguably one of the greatest sportsmen Bermuda ever produced."
Alongside the renaming of the road just outside Somerset Cricket Club, Alfred Maybury, the Club's president explained November 1 would become known as Clyde Best Day. "I'm going to thank you for coming in recognition of what we are trying to do and know that this is not the end. "There are people previously that have battled for us, for Somerset and Bermuda, that we need to start recognising and making sure that when the generations come behind, they know the part they played in this community and this country."
Best's status as a national hero has previously been celebrated as he joined the National Sports Hall of Fame in 2004 and was awarded an MBE in 2006. Two years later, the world governing body of football, FIFA, awarded Best the order of merit.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho back for Aston Villa match on Saturday
BBC.co.uk
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho is set to return for Saturday's Premier League match against Aston Villa. The summer arrival from Metz was forced to sit out the Hammers 2-2 draw at Stoke on Saturday after injuring his shoulder in the victory over reigning champions Manchester City. Sakho scored the winner as West Ham won 2-1 against City on October 25 but later collided with Joe Hart. The Senegal international has hit six goals in his first six league starts. Sakho was not risked at the Britannia Stadium as Sam Allardyce's side came from two
goals down to take a point and it was feared he might be out for a month.
But Stijn Vandenbroucke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday - and also confirmed club-record signing Andy Carroll is closing in on a first-team return having been ruled out since a pre-season ankle operation. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game," Vandenbroucke told the club's official website. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came though, and will continue to train this week."
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Winston Reid agrees new contract, says Star
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
It's not one we can confirm or deny at present, but a tabloid is claiming tonight that Winston Reid is on the verge of signing a new contract with West Ham. Alex Harris, writing for the Daily Star insists that Reid is on the verge of snubbing the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal by putting pen to paper on a new four-year contract with West Ham. "According to reports, the Hammers defender is set to sign a new deal until 2019," wrote Harris tonight in a piece published by the tabloid. That comes just three weeks after co-chairman David Gold revealed that the New Zealand international had been offered a new, improved deal. "We hope to keep him and have made him a very competitive offer," said DG, speaking last month - although there had been no further developments until tonight. Reid moved to West Ham in a £4million switch from Danish club Midtjylland in 2010, following a successful World Cup campaign during which he scored for New Zealand. Having initially struggled to hold a first team place down, following the departure of Avram Grant he became a staple in Allardyce's defence and has gone on to make 111 appearances for West Ham. In recent months he has been linked with a string of top tier clubs and despite having been offered improved terms to extend his stay, had refused to sign a new deal with West Ham. It is rumoured that Reid is seeking circa £80,000 per week; West Ham's recent offer is said to fall some way short of that at circa £60,000 per week.
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Sakh back to make Villa crack
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho is set to return to West Ham's starting line-up this weekend when struggling Aston Villa visit the Boleyn Ground. Sakho, who has scored in every match he has started for West Ham since signing from Metz in the summer missed last weekend's 2-2 draw at Stoke with a shoulder problem. However the striker - who was ruled out of the trip to the Britannia after a late fitness test on Friday afternoon - is expected to once again line up alongside striker partner Enner Valencia when the under-fire Paul Lambert brings his side to London. "We think Sakho will be back for the next game," confirmed manager Sam Allardyce. "There's no dislocation; it's a cartilage problem so it's bruised and the pain is still pretty tender but it's getting better every day and hopefully he'll be back."
With Sakho's striker partner Andy Carroll - who he is yet to play alongside - also on the cusp of returning from injury, Sam Allardyce could face the prospect of having a full fit squad to choose from for the first time in 2014 within the next few weeks. Meanwhile the under-pressure Lambert, whose Villa side have lost their last six consecutive Premier League outings will have to do without key striker Christian Benteke when they travel to Upton Park. The Belgian international was sent off for violent conduct during the 2-1 defeat at home to Tottenham on Sunday and now faces a three-match ban, which begins this weekend.
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Lee returns
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 4th November 2014
By: Staff Writer
Elliot Lee has returned to West Ham - just three days after joining League Two Southend on a three-month loan. The 19-year-old striker completed the switch to Roots Hall ahead of last weekend's fixtures in order to gain some much-needed first team football in the fourth tier. However disaster apparently struck less than an hour into his first full training session, according to Southend manager Phil Brown.
"Elliot came to us fully fit but 35 minutes in to his first session he pulled up with a muscle strain," Brown told the Echo. "He's gone back to get that assessed at West Ham and will have a scan today. That will tell us more, hopefully it won't be too bad."
Just minutes after Lee's temporary transfer was confirmed on Friday morning, the striker took to Twitter to post a comment stating "how's my luck?" - followed by two sad emoticons. Later in the day that message was removed, which led to speculation suggesting that the striker may have sustained an injury - as confirmed some 48 hours later.
Elliot Lee ✔ @ElliotLee9
Gutted to pick up an injury yesterday in training. Fingers crossed it isn't too serious and I can get back to @SUFCRootsHall ASAP! 😤🙏⚽️
Lee had been in line to make his debut for the Blues at Mansfield last weekend, but could now be forced to wait several weeks before being able to do so. He previously spent time on loan at Colchester (2013/14 season) when he made four appearances during a one-month spell with the League One side and has made just two first team appearances for West Ham thus far, despite having been on the fringes of the first team squad for the last 18 months or so. Lee made his first team debut at West Ham in the 1-0 FA Cup defeat at Manchester United in January 2013, before making his only Premier League appearance so far as a late sub in a 1-0 home defeat to Stoke in August of the same year.
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Diafra Sakho set for Saturday return from injury for West Ham
Last Updated: 04/11/14 1:28pm
SSN
West Ham's top striker Diafra Sakho looks set to return against Aston Villa on Saturday after recovering from a shoulder injury. Sakho has scored seven goals in his first seven games in all competitions for West Ham since joining the club from Metz in the summer. He picked up the shoulder injury in the Hammers' recent victory over reigning Premier League champions Manchester City and was forced to sit out the 2-2 draw at Stoke over the weekend. West Ham on Tuesday said he has recovered from the injury and is in line to return to the squad for the Premier League match against Aston Villa at Upton Park. The 24-year-old scored the crucial second goal when West Ham defeated City 2-1 at home on October 25. A collision with City goalkeeper Joe Hart led to Sakho being substituted and he was not risked at the Britannia Stadium as Sam Allardyce's side came from two goals down to take a point. But Stijn Vandenbrouke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday - and also confirmed club-record signing Andy Carroll is closing in on a first-team return having been ruled out since a pre-season ankle operation. "Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game," Vandenbroucke told the club's official website. "Andy Carroll trained and played in a behind-closed-doors match last week, which he came through, and will continue to train this week."
Allardyce will be further boosted by the news Winston Reid will also be available to take on out-of-form Villa after the New Zealand international suffered a dead leg at Stoke. The point against Mark Hughes' side leaves West Ham fifth in the table, level with Arsenal having won half of their opening 10 fixtures . Sakho made his international debut for Senegal in a friendly in May this year but, because he has not yet played a competitive international for the country of his birth, is still eligible to play for France.
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Reid rumours on rise again
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 4, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Winston Reid "will he won't he" guessing game emerged again this evening when a national tabloid claimed the central defender will sign a new four year deal with the Hammers. The story opens with the announcement: "According to reports, the Hammers defender is set to sign a new deal until 2019. It then claims this will come as a blow to Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, "who have been keeping tabs on his situation."
And it's followed with some previously published quotes from Sam Allardyce which say: "It's not that he doesn't want to stay. It's about the financial remuneration and whether they can come to the right level, give or take or negotiation that gets us to a point where he will say, 'yes'."
Unfortunately what the story doesn't do is provide any quotes from Reid, his adviser or even an Upton Park insider claiming a deal is close. All a bit bizarre! The first two paragraphs are simply allowed to stand as statements of fact and although every Iron in the country will want to believe the story it would be nice to see some more meat on the bone. Since checking the story over the last half an hour we have been told again the Hammers offer to the player is in the region of £60k but that – despite Sam's comments – the scenario was not solely about personal terms. Reid is also keenm for European football. And in the last few minutes we were told: "There's more hope as Winston can see the progress being made this season both on the pitch and the development of the Rush Green Training Centre. He sees a club with ambition moving on in all directions "Also, there have been no enquries for the player either formally or informally."
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French firm favourites to run OS
Posted by Sean Whetstone on November 4, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
AEG and French firm Vinci are going toe to toe to become the main operator of the Olympic Stadium. The process is nearing completion with an announcement by the London Legacy Development Corporation expected in the next few weeks. Word is that Vinci will be announced as the preferred bidder of the 10 year contract to manage the Olympic Stadium with AEG finishing a close second. AEG currently manages the O2 and initially suggested a failed joint venture with Spurs to knock down the Olympic Stadium and rebuild the stadium. Vinci is a large construction and facilities management company which already runs stadiums including Paris's Parc des Princes venue, Stade de France, M M Arena and the Allianz Riviera. Vinci Concessions is primarily active in airports, motorways and road infrastructure, rail infrastructure, stadiums and parking. The winner of the contract will be responsible for staging concerts, corporate events and working with the stadium's new concessionaire West Ham United from 2016. It will be this management company who will have the responsibility on any future ground sharing arrangements with West Ham.
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West Ham ace set to snub reported Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United interest
Freddie Shires
HITC
West Ham United's in-demand centre-back Winston Reid is on the verge of signing a new deal at the club, according to reports.
Winston Reid is set to end speculation surrounding his West Ham United future and sign a new deal until 2019, according to a report from the Daily Star. Reid, 26, had entered the final season of his contract at Upton Park, and the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United were all understood to be keeping tabs on the situation, in preparation for a potential approach in the coming transfer window.
The Gunners were even said to have made a late bid for the New Zealand captain at the summer deadline, and West Ham boss Sam Allardyce admitted only last month that he wasn't sure whether the club would be able to keep hold of their star centre-back. 'It is not only a concern for me, but it is a concern for the owners,' he said. 'There's been talk about Winston and his contract for a pretty long period now. 'It's not that he doesn't want to stay. It's about the financial remuneration and whether they can come to the right level, give or take or negotiation that gets us to a point where he will say, "yes". 'That's always the hard bit. It's always a difficult negotiation. If we could tie him up tomorrow then I think the owners particularly and myself would like that and not have it lingering. 'Hopefully sooner rather than later that will come to a conclusion and a positive one. I can only hope that is going to be a positive result in the end.' Reid has played 115 games for West Ham since arriving from Danish club FC Midtjylland in August 2010, following an impressive World Cup campaign, and was named Hammer of the Year for the 2012-13 season after helping the side to a 10th-place finish in their top-flight return. With Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool all needing help at the back, he could have proven an excellent low-cost addition, but it now looks like the three will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements.
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Andy Carroll set to return from ankle injury in West Ham practice match almost six months after last playing in Premier League
West Ham's Andy Carroll is primed to play against Southend on Wednesday
The England international has been absent with an ankle injury
Carroll recently proposed to girlfriend Billi Mucklow in Rome
By MATT LAWTON FOR MAIL ONLINE
PUBLISHED: 15:11, 4 November 2014 | UPDATED: 22:05, 4 November 2014
Daily Mail
West Ham striker Andy Carroll is set to make his return from injury in a practice match on Wednesday against Southend at Chadwell Heath.
The England international is yet to feature this season due to an ankle injury but is primed to play. Club-record signing Carroll will make his eagerly-anticipated return barring any last-minute setbacks almost six months after last featuring for West Ham against Manchester City on May 11. Meanwhile, Diafra Sakho has recovered from a shoulder injury and is in line to make a welcome return to the squad for Saturday's Barclays Premier League match against Aston Villa. The summer arrival from Metz was forced to sit out the 2-2 draw at Stoke over the weekend after suffering the knock in the recent victory over reigning champions Manchester City. Stijn Vandenbrouke, West Ham's head of medical and sports science, has revealed Sakho will be back at Upton Park on Saturday. 'Diafra ran individually on Monday at Chadwell Heath and will be available for the game,' Vandenbroucke told the club's official website.
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And here's something you don't see everyday.. Miaga scoring twice in a game!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oiBeoiSeeCc&feature=player_embedded
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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Tuesday, November 4
Daily WHUFC News - 4th November 2014
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
Sam Alladyce has tipped Stewart Downing for an England call-up after his
starring role at Stoke City
02.11.2014
Sam Allardyce has pushed Stewart Downing's England credentials after the
West Ham United midfielder played a pivotal role in the stirring two-goal
comeback at Stoke City on Saturday. The Hammers were two down when Downing's
burst of pace and undefendable cross set up Enner Valencia to head home,
before Valencia returned the favour by teeing up the No11 to drill a
right-footed equaliser past Asmir Begovic. The impact Downing had on the
game is reflective of his season so far, and much of the post-match
questioning of his manager centred on whether the former Liverpool winger's
name will be in included in Roy Hodgson's England squad when it is announced
on Thursday.
"If England need a central midfield player either in a three or in the hole,
it's well worth looking at him," Allardyce said. "We told him he should have
a go in the new role and try to express himself a bit more. "You've got all
the experience with England and in the Premier League, can we move you
inside and get more ball to you, will you be a better danger?' And up to now
the answer has been yes.
"Anything that Stewart has played in central midfield has been exceptional
and it turned the game on the Saturday in our favour by putting him in the
middle.
"It doesn't matter whether people mark him or don't mark him, he can go
either way. He can twist or turn and get his way out of trouble and start
running at people's back fours, which is better than running at full-backs.
"The first goal was coming out of the centre and going to the right, running
down and crossing with his right foot for Valencia. Then being in the middle
for the ball to drop and finishing it for the second shows his reading of
the game is exceptional.
While Downing's role will rightly get much of the attention, there were
other notable performances across the Hammers' XI. Goalkeeper Adrian pulled
off several outstanding saves, while James Collins had another eye-catching
outing, throwing himself in front of shots and keeping Stoke's threatening
forwards under control.
"Well James has played so well before this game. He stepped in for James
Tomkins when he got injured before the Burnley match, took his place and
played his third outstanding game on Saturday.
"The amount of blocks and headers was terrific. He wasn't happy as he
thought he should be protected more by his players but he was there when we
needed him.
"Their frontline was lively and all three have not only got great energy and
ability but they're strong physically, which challenged us. After all that
we come through and showed a bit of our quality and the biggest thing for me
is that's the fewest chances we've created in a game and we've scored two
even though we've not got our leading goalscorer [Diafra Sakho] on the
pitch."
The point helped maintain West Ham's lofty position in the Barclays Premier
League table and with a home game against Aston Villa on Saturday up next,
the chances of going into the international break in the top six remain
high. Big Sam revealed Diafra Sakho should be back to lead the line in the
3pm kick off, but has warned he will be expecting a better performance from
his team.
"We've got Villa at home on Saturday and the point at Stoke kept us on a
very good run. Anybody who gets a point away from home is extremely
satisfied in this league. To get a point after being two goals down is
almost like a moral victory.
"We think Sakho will be back for the next game. We don't think the shoulder
is going to be too long. There's no dislocation; it's a cartilage problem so
it's bruised and the pain is still pretty tender but it's getting better
every day and hopefully he'll be back for Aston Villa. If not, we have to
cope with it and after that it's the international break.
"The good thing is the goals are getting shared about the team. The goals we
scored against Stoke were not gifts, they had to be quality and both were
top quality. Even when we've got that quality when we're not as good as the
opposition, we've always got a goal threat. That changes games and it
certainly changed the game against Stoke."
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'I just ruffled a few feathers'
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole gave Stoke City 'a bit of entertaining' on his 200th Hammers
Premier League appearance
03.11.2014
Carlton Cole was proud to have 'ruffled a few feathers' as West Ham United
launched a thrilling comeback to draw 2-2 at Stoke City.
Making his 200th Barclays Premier League appearance as a half-time
substitute, Cole used his physical attributes to unsettle a Potters defence
that had appeared comfortable before the break. With the No24 partnering
Enner Valencia and Stewart Downing moving to the tip of a diamond formation,
West Ham roared back from two goals down to snatch a point. The centre
forward put himself about to great effect, occupying Ryan Shawcross and Marc
Wilson, making space for his teammates and, at one point, becoming embroiled
in an altercation with Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic. "I think we knew we
needed a bit of my presence up front in the second half," Cole began. "In
the first half, Enner was trying his best but they have got two big boys at
the back who needed a bit of entertaining! "Enner got free in the second
half and that's how he got his goal. Stewart Downing has got an assist and a
goal too and I'm just glad to be part of it. "I just ruffled a few feathers
and created a melee in the box. Their keeper gripped me and I wasn't having
that so I got them wound up and off their game a little bit. "It's all about
the experience and we had the players to come off the bench to ruffle a few
feathers if need be and the manager used us."
Before the introduction of Cole and, at 2-1 down, captain Kevin Nolan, West
Ham were second best to their hosts. Victor Moses poked Stoke in front on 23
minutes before Mame Biram Diouf doubled their advantage on 56, while Adrian
also had to be at his best to deny the Senegal forward just before
half-time. However, the introduction of two experienced players changed the
course of the game, with Downing and Valencia combining to set each other up
for the comeback goals. "The players will be the first to tell you that we
didn't play well, but you know it's going to be a tough game when you come
to a place like Stoke," said Cole. "It was a hard-fought game and if you'd
told me we were going to get a point before the game, to be totally honest I
would have taken it. "Although I think we can go anywhere and score goals
now, we knew they were going to come at us. They want to be in our position
and show they are as a good as us, but we showed great belief and mental
strength to come from 2-0 down."
While Cole was the main source of goals for West Ham for many seasons, he is
now surrounded by players who know where the back of the net is. With 19
goals in just ten league games so far, the 31-year-old is loving the
Hammers' new-found potency. "That's what I'm saying. We've got goals all
over the pitch and it helps the strikers out so much and takes a bit of
pressure off everybody, which is what you need. You need goals from all
departments. "Obviously Diafra Sakho was out, so we needed other players to
come in and live up to expectations, and I thought that was what happened.
"Stewie set up a goal and scored one with his right foot, which is an
example of the standard he is setting for himself. He's working hard, never
giving up and he's playing really well."
Cole himself was also proud to become just the third Hammer to reach 200
Premier League appearances, following Steve Potts and Mark Noble.
"It's been up and down and I'm just glad to be involved in the ups right
now," he said. "Hopefully I can keep on going now, because it's a long old
season and we need to keep churning out the points. "I'm happy to be at West
Ham - everyone knows that - and I'll keep showing the passion in my play. "I
know I didn't have my best game at Stoke, but I just wanted to get that
lucky goal at the end when it goes in off my shin or something to win the
game! It wasn't to be fairytale 200th appearance, but that's OK."
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Downing the dazzling diamond
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing is loving life at the tip of West Ham United's new diamond
formation
03.11.2014
Stewart Downing is loving life at the tip of West Ham United's new diamond
formation. The midfielder is being tipped for an England return after a
series of dazzling performances in recent weeks, and could add to his 34
caps when Roy Hodgson names his squad for upcoming fixtures with Slovenia
and Scotland. Downing has chalked up four assists and two goals in his
opening ten Barclays Premier League appearances this term, catching the eye
with his outstanding passing and delivery, pace and ability to open up
opposition defences almost at will. Having spent the majority of his
professional career on the wing, the No11 has enjoyed seeing more of the
ball and having a greater influence on the game from a central position. On
Saturday, a switch to the diamond formation brought a vital equaliser from
Downing to secure a 2-2 draw at Stoke City. "Yes, it's brilliant," he
enthused. "To be fair to the manager in the second half, he called me over
and made the change and said he was just going to go for it. "Credit to him
because he made the change. I was quite happy out wide, but it was difficult
to get involved at times, so credit to him for putting me in the middle and
going for it, because it's paid off for us and we've got a point out of the
game. "Enner Valencia got to the line it was a great pull-back. Cheikh and
Ginge went for it and missed it and it came through bodies and I thought I
needed to make a clean contact and make their keeper work. I probably had a
little bit of luck because it went through bodies and their keeper couldn't
see it until the last minute. He got a hand to it, but we needed that little
bit of luck in the game because for large periods we didn't play well."
Prior to scoring himself, Downing had given a reminder of his wing wizardry
when he sped down the right before crossing for Valencia to launch West
Ham's dramatic second-half comeback. "It was probably the first time we had
a bit of space to go forward down the line," he recalled. "It was probably
the first bit of quality we had during the game, because I thought we were
poor in the first half. "It was a great finish from him and a great time to
score because it put them on the back foot and you could sense it. "It was a
great game for the neutral watching because it was end to end, but from the
manager's point of view some of the stuff we did wasn't very good. The
pleasing thing is we didn't play well, but we got a point which was a big
point as well."
Having produced another eye-catching display, does Downing expect to receive
the call from Hodgson when his squad is named later this week? "I think I've
said before that if he picks me I would love it," he admitted. "I've just
got to keep playing well and getting goals and creating and if I do well it
gives him something to think about. "We'll see what happens. There are a
couple of injuries, so we'll see who he picks in the squad. I know Roy has
been to games and watched us, but my attitude is 'If he picks me, great, but
if he doesn't I'll just keep on working and getting on with it. "I've just
got to keep showing different parts to my game. If he's been watching the
past six or seven weeks, it's not only been me who has been playing well in
our team. We'll see, it'll be interesting."
Whether he is called by England or not, Downing will be focusing all of his
efforts this week on preparing to face former club Aston Villa, who visit
the Boleyn Ground on Saturday afternoon. The Villans, who the
Middlesbrough-born midfielder served between 2009 and 2011, have lost their
last six league matches, but Downing is not expecting an easy ride against
Paul Lambert's side. "The manager stressed before Stoke that, after beating
Man City, we couldn't go out thinking we just had to go out and we had won
the game. "In the first half, they could have been out of sight, to be
honest, with the chances they had. Our keeper made a great save from Mame
Biram Diouf just before half-time and if he had scored it would have been
2-0. "They are all tough games and playing at home can be tougher than
playing away. They will come and make it hard for us but if we produce the
quality we did in the last half-hour at Stoke then we'll definitely get
chances in the game."
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Ginge delighted with Downing form
WHUFC.com
James Collins says Stewart Downing is one of a host of Hammers pushing for
an England call-up
03.11.2014
James Collins making a block is a sight West Ham United fans have become
accustomed to during his two spells in Claret and Blue.
At Stoke City, Ginge was at it again, throwing his body in front of anything
that moved in and around the Hammers penalty area.
While one such block inadvertently led to Stoke's opening goal in Saturday's
2-2 Barclays Premier League draw, Collins emerged with immense credit from
yet another all-action performance. The Hammers fell two goals down to
strikes from Victor Moses and Mame Biram Diouf, but recovered to snatch a
point through Enner Valencia's diving header and Stewart Downing's
first-time finish. "It was hard in the first half because they made it tough
for us," said the Wales international. "We weren't great but Stoke played
very well. We stayed in the game and with the firepower we've got we knew
we'd get chances. "I had to play like I did and coming to Stoke I knew it
was going to be like that. It was one of those days where it fell on my head
or I managed to get a block on it. "I was disappointed to concede two goals
but we managed to get back into it. It's nice to be back in the team and
playing in a confident, winning team. "We knew it was going to be tough
without Diafra Sakho, who everybody has been talking about for weeks now,
but it shows the strength in depth we have now with boys coming in and
playing very well. "We've come to Stoke, a very tough game, and somehow from
2-0 down we've come back to 2-2 and everybody is delighted."
While Collins himself was impressive, the impact made by Downing was
outstanding yet again, with the No11 picking up his fourth assist and second
goal of a superb season so far. The centre-back believes it will not be long
before the wider football world give Downing the credit he deserves for his
outstanding form. "It's no surprise to me because I obviously had three
years at Aston Villa with him as well before he came down here. "Stewie is a
world-class player whether it's behind the strikers, in central midfield or
out wide. The Gaffer asked him to play out wide because of Diafra Sakho's
injury and again he's put in a great performance, set a goal up and scored
one. You can't ask for much more. "I've been fortunate enough to play and
train with him for a number of years now and good players can play anywhere.
"I think he deserves the recognition because he is playing superbly at the
minute. He is probably the driving force in our team, whether it's through
the middle or out wide. It's nice to see him getting back in the limelight.
"If he keeps playing the way he is playing, I'm sure an England call-up will
not be far away."
While Downing already has 33 England caps to his name, Collins believes Mark
Noble, Carl Jenkinson and Aaron Cresswell should also come into Roy
Hodgson's thoughts if they maintain their current form. "I think we've got a
number of players in our squad who should be pushing for England places -
Mark Noble to name one, Stewie and the two full-backs who are playing great.
"It's all coming down to their club form and long may that form continue.
"I'm sure if Roy Hodgson comes down to watch the boys when he can, he will
see consistent performers who play very well for their club. For me, I don't
know what more they can do."
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Catch up on how the five West Ham United loan players fared in this
weekend's games
03.11.2014
Modibo Maiga scored a brace as FC Metz beat Caen 3-2 in a thrilling game at
Stade Saint-Symphorien. The Malian born striker opened the scoring after ten
minutes following an assist from ex-Chelsea winger Florent Malouda. Maiga
doubled the lead just after half time before Caen came back with goals from
Jean Calve and Bengali-Fode Koita. The drama continued when Malouda scored
in the 90th minute, securing Les Grenats' fifth win of their league
campaign.
Sean Maguire played the full 90 minutes as Accrington Stanley secured a 2-1
win over Lancashire rivals Morecambe. Stanley took an early lead through
Luke Joyce's fifth minute penalty before Shay McCartan doubled their lead in
the eleventh minute.
George Moncur played the full game as Colchester United slipped to a 2-1
home defeat by Port Vale. Goals from Mark Marshall and Colin Daniel secured
the three points while Freddie Sears scored a late consolation goal.
Ravel Morrison came on the 81st minute as Cardiff City's revival under new
manager Russell Slade continued by beating Leeds United 3-1. Goals from
Bruno Ecuele Manga, Federico Macheda and Kenwyne Jones see the Bluebirds
stay eleventh.
Elliot Lee missed Southend United's 2-1 victory over Mansfield Town through
injury. The young striker has joined the Shrimpers on a three month loan.
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Allardyce to lead West Ham into the OS, hints Sullivan
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 3rd November 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has admitted it is 'probable' that Sam Allardyce will still
be in charge when West Ham move to the Olympic Stadium in two years time.
West Ham's largest single shareholder and current co-owner told Sky Sports
this afternoon that although talks regarding a contract extension for the
manager are on hold until the end of the season - as established previously
- he believes Allardyce could be the man to lead West Ham into their new
home. Asked whether he thought Allarydce would still be in charge come the
start of the 2016/17 season, West Ham's first in Stratford, Sullivan
replied: "In all probability - but he might be the manager of Manchester
United or the manager of England. Anything is possible in football. "We will
sit down at the end of this season with Sam and sees how he feels about
everything and then decide what we are doing. "Fans are warming to him but
he's from the north and West Ham is a London club. We didn't play the best
football at the time but I don't think it was as bad as people said. They
are warming to the new Sam, and the new West Ham, and the way we are
playing."
Recent weeks have witnessed an abrupt change of fortune for Allardyce, who
just three months ago was still being loudly heckled by some sections of
West Ham's fanbase that insisted the club could only progress by firing the
60-year-old. However a four-match unbeaten run has propelled the Hammers
into the Premier League's top five, which has resulted in many of his former
detractors now backing Allardyce's continued employment at the club.
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Sam Allardyce set for West Ham contract talks, says David Sullivan
Last Updated: 03/11/14 10:22pm
SSN
West Ham co-owner David Sullivan says he will hold talks with Sam Allardyce
about a new contract at the end of the season. West Ham co-owner David
Sullivan says he will hold new contract talks with manager Sam Allardyce at
the end of the current season. Sullivan says fans are warming to the new
style of football that the Hammers are playing under Big Sam this season, a
new approach that has seen the club climb to fifth in the Premier League
table. "We will all sit down exactly the same as we did last season,
exactly the same as the season before and the end of the first year in the
Premier League when Sam's contract ran out and we sat down and agreed a new
deal," Sullivan told Sky Sports News HQ. "We will sit down at the end of
this season with Sam and sees how he feels about everything and see how he
feels about everything and then decide what we are doing. When asked if
Allardyce would be the manager to lead the club into the Olympic Stadium for
the 2016-17 season, Sullivan added: "In all probability but he might be the
manager of Manchester United or the manager of England, anything is possible
in football." "He has an image of being some sort of rough northerner and
probably not very bright" He said: "It's very amicable, we have never had a
cross word. Sam is an intelligent, smart person. He has an image of being
some sort of rough northerner and probably not very bright - this is the
image I would say. "But, in fact he is a very intelligent person, he
analyses stats, he analyses performance, he analyses the opposition, he
analyses his own players and he is a very, very intelligent man. You can
have a very sensible conversation with him. "Fans are warming to him but
he's from the north and West Ham is a London club. We didn't play the best
football at the time but I don't think it was as bad as people said. They
are warming to the new Sam, and the new West Ham, and the way we are
playing."
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MANAGER OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER
By Sean Whetstone 3 Nov 2014 at 16:58
West Ham till I Die
Sam Allardyce must have a good chance of winning the Barclays Premier League
Manager of the month for October.after winning all three games against QPR.
Manchester City and Burnley in the month. The narrow defeat against
Manchester United fell at the end of September and the weekend's draw
against Stoke fell on the first day of November meaning he achieved nine
points out of nine in October.
His main competitor Ronald Koeman won the manager of the month for September
and despite a 8-0 win against Sunderland they lost to Spurs on the 5th
October.
Sam last won the Barclays Premier League Manager of the month back in
February this year after he guided the Hammers to four wins out of four
through February, beating Swansea City, Aston Villa, Norwich City and
Southampton.
We have all come a long way since the dark days of last season which
provoked a lack of confidence in the manager among many Hammers fans. The
owners refused to be swayed by fan protest and stuck with their manager but
they did insist on changes and bought extremely well in the transfer window
as they took a greater control over the recruitment policy. It was never
personal against Sam, just his style of play with no plan B which annoyed
many fans, this made going to watch West Ham week in week out last season a
chore but this season we look forward to the excitement of forthcoming
matches as we know goals will be scored.
While I wish Sam all the best to win this award for October manager of the
month I think this has been a massive team effort both on and off the pitch.
Our owners particularly David Sullivan who worked tirelessly to bring in
quality transfers,Teddy Sherringham, Neil McDonald and the other back room
boys in getting the players to adapt to the Premier League so quickly as
well as the whole team guided by Sam Allardyce have now turned West Ham into
one of the best in form teams while being entertaining. We have our West Ham
way back!
I also think fans played they small part last season by insisting to the
board that things needed to change. With hindsight It appears a leopard does
change it's spots and If I owe Sam an apology for suggesting he couldn't
adapt I am man enough to admit I was wrong and say Sorry to Mr Allardici.
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Stewart Downing bidding for England recall after impressing in West Ham's
buoyant start
Nov 02, 2014 22:30 By David Anderson
The rejuvenated former Aston Villa winger won the last of his 34 caps in Roy
Hodgson's first game in charge against Norway in May 2012
The Mirror
Stewart Downing hopes he has given Roy Hodgson a big problem. The England
boss names his next squad on Thursday and Downing has his fingers crossed he
will be included. West Ham midfielder Downing has been in the wilderness
since winning the last of his 34 caps in -Hodgson's first game in charge
against Norway in May 2012. The 30-year-old has been -rejuvenated since Sam
Allardyce moved him to a central role and he showed his versatility at the
Britannia, shining when he was switched to the right because of Diafra
Sakho's absence.
The former Liverpool winger led West Ham's fightback, creating Enner
Valencia's goal before cracking home the -equaliser, both times with his
supposedly weaker right foot. "If he picks me it would be unbelievable,"
said Downing. "I'd love to play for England. "I think the main thing for me
is that I've got to keep playing well and if I can nick goals and create, it
gives him a problem to think about. We'll see what happens next week. There
are a couple of injuries there and I'll look at the squad, see what he does
and who he picks. "I know he's been to games and is watching us, so we'll
see. That's my attitude at the minute. If he picks me, great. If not, I'll
just carry on."
James Collins played with Downing at Aston Villa and says picking him should
be a no-brainer.The centre-half, who was a rock against Stoke, said: "I know
what Stewie can do, he's a world-class player. "Whether it's in the middle,
behind the strikers, he can play centre midfield or out wide. I don't know
how much more he has to do to get into the England team. If you're playing
well for your club and people are talking about you, it shouldn't matter who
you play for. You could be playing in the Championship." Stoke had been
dominant for the first hour before Downing's intervention and Victor Moses
poked home his first Potters goal before Mame Diouf headed in their second.
City felt the game turned when ref Chris Foy played advantage after Alex
Song lunged at Diouf two-footed instead of stopping play and punishing the
Hammers' midfielder. Moses lost the ball and Downing produced a surging run
down the right to tee up Valencia's goal. Despite feeling aggrieved, Steven
Nzonzi admits Stoke should have put the game to bed by this point. "That's a
problem for us, closing out games," said the French midfielder. "When you
are winning 2-0, you should win. We should have been more patient, more
compact -defensively."
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Amalfitano contract rests on 25 starts
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Morgan Amalfitano needs to make 25 Premier League starts for the Irons if
he's to win an automatic contract extension. Newspaper stories today
suggested that the player would be granted his "wish" of getting an extended
contract at the Boleyn. However, ClaretandHugh has learned that the terms
are all covered in his contract and that the extension will only kick in
automatically after the 25th start.
We were told: "We look at stuff like that later in the season. IF he makes a
certain number of PL starts, its automatically extended.
But we have the right to extend if we want anyway so there's no hurry up
involved. Everything was sorted at the contract signing stage."
The 29 year old is keen to stay at the club and was reported as saying: "I
hope to contribute to ensure I stay here. I'm adapting well and hope it
carries on."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Huge Benteke boost for Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke's absence from the clash with the
Hammers at the weekend is a huge plus for the Irons. ClaretandHugh's top
analyst Leroy Rosenior reckons the big fella was coming back to his best
against Spurs at the weekend and that his sending off and resulting
suspension for the Boleyn match is "fantastic" news. He said: Benteke is
their focal point - a mega presence and not having him to worry about him
makes - or should make - life considerably easier for us. Benteke raised his
hand to Ryan Mason's face after being shoved by the Spurs player during the
match at Villa Park on Sunday. Mason escaped disciplinary action but looked
a major offender and should perhaps have joined the striker but regardless
of that it was all good news for the Irons as Benteke walked. Rosenior said:
"There are no excuses for Benteke's but I think Mason should have gone as
well. However, there's no question the striker's absence should make life
easier for us."
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Irons watch Shrimpers keeper
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are closely monitoring the form of promising Southend keeper Daniel
Bentley! The 21 year old has been a near ever present for the Shrimpers over
the last couple of seasons and has been watched by the Hammers during that
period. Sam Allardyce and Southend boss Phil Brown have a close relationship
from Bolton days and Bentley could find himself on the move to Upton park as
back-up to Adrian next summer. A Hammers source told Claretandhugh: "The
goalkeeping position is one we are looking to strengthen in the summer.
Jussi can still do a job if needed but we have to look to the future. Benley
is a good young keeper but we have a long short list although he would
figure prominently upon it."
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Adrian back to his best
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
One of the most encouraging features o f the last couple of games has been
to see goalkeeper Adrian returning to his best. The Spaniard was perhaps
looking more suspect than he had been last season but his performances
against Manchester City and Stoke have been nearly faultless. Hammers
legendary stopper Phil Parkes pointed out earlier in the season that the
keeper may suffer a spot of the second seas syndrome and claimed he was
still on a learning curve. That he has overcome a slightly anxious opening
period and returned to top form, is hugely encouraging at a time when the
team is going so well. He showed he was back to his best with two saves in
particular, first when saving well from Mame Diouf blocking the shot with
his legs and then near the end making another brilliant save from Geoff
Cameron.
But for those efforts the outcome of the game may have been very different.
It was a far cry from the questions some were asking of his handling earlier
in the season. Thankfully, the learning curve Parksey talked of is in full
swing and going very well indeed.
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WHUFC.com
Sam Alladyce has tipped Stewart Downing for an England call-up after his
starring role at Stoke City
02.11.2014
Sam Allardyce has pushed Stewart Downing's England credentials after the
West Ham United midfielder played a pivotal role in the stirring two-goal
comeback at Stoke City on Saturday. The Hammers were two down when Downing's
burst of pace and undefendable cross set up Enner Valencia to head home,
before Valencia returned the favour by teeing up the No11 to drill a
right-footed equaliser past Asmir Begovic. The impact Downing had on the
game is reflective of his season so far, and much of the post-match
questioning of his manager centred on whether the former Liverpool winger's
name will be in included in Roy Hodgson's England squad when it is announced
on Thursday.
"If England need a central midfield player either in a three or in the hole,
it's well worth looking at him," Allardyce said. "We told him he should have
a go in the new role and try to express himself a bit more. "You've got all
the experience with England and in the Premier League, can we move you
inside and get more ball to you, will you be a better danger?' And up to now
the answer has been yes.
"Anything that Stewart has played in central midfield has been exceptional
and it turned the game on the Saturday in our favour by putting him in the
middle.
"It doesn't matter whether people mark him or don't mark him, he can go
either way. He can twist or turn and get his way out of trouble and start
running at people's back fours, which is better than running at full-backs.
"The first goal was coming out of the centre and going to the right, running
down and crossing with his right foot for Valencia. Then being in the middle
for the ball to drop and finishing it for the second shows his reading of
the game is exceptional.
While Downing's role will rightly get much of the attention, there were
other notable performances across the Hammers' XI. Goalkeeper Adrian pulled
off several outstanding saves, while James Collins had another eye-catching
outing, throwing himself in front of shots and keeping Stoke's threatening
forwards under control.
"Well James has played so well before this game. He stepped in for James
Tomkins when he got injured before the Burnley match, took his place and
played his third outstanding game on Saturday.
"The amount of blocks and headers was terrific. He wasn't happy as he
thought he should be protected more by his players but he was there when we
needed him.
"Their frontline was lively and all three have not only got great energy and
ability but they're strong physically, which challenged us. After all that
we come through and showed a bit of our quality and the biggest thing for me
is that's the fewest chances we've created in a game and we've scored two
even though we've not got our leading goalscorer [Diafra Sakho] on the
pitch."
The point helped maintain West Ham's lofty position in the Barclays Premier
League table and with a home game against Aston Villa on Saturday up next,
the chances of going into the international break in the top six remain
high. Big Sam revealed Diafra Sakho should be back to lead the line in the
3pm kick off, but has warned he will be expecting a better performance from
his team.
"We've got Villa at home on Saturday and the point at Stoke kept us on a
very good run. Anybody who gets a point away from home is extremely
satisfied in this league. To get a point after being two goals down is
almost like a moral victory.
"We think Sakho will be back for the next game. We don't think the shoulder
is going to be too long. There's no dislocation; it's a cartilage problem so
it's bruised and the pain is still pretty tender but it's getting better
every day and hopefully he'll be back for Aston Villa. If not, we have to
cope with it and after that it's the international break.
"The good thing is the goals are getting shared about the team. The goals we
scored against Stoke were not gifts, they had to be quality and both were
top quality. Even when we've got that quality when we're not as good as the
opposition, we've always got a goal threat. That changes games and it
certainly changed the game against Stoke."
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'I just ruffled a few feathers'
WHUFC.com
Carlton Cole gave Stoke City 'a bit of entertaining' on his 200th Hammers
Premier League appearance
03.11.2014
Carlton Cole was proud to have 'ruffled a few feathers' as West Ham United
launched a thrilling comeback to draw 2-2 at Stoke City.
Making his 200th Barclays Premier League appearance as a half-time
substitute, Cole used his physical attributes to unsettle a Potters defence
that had appeared comfortable before the break. With the No24 partnering
Enner Valencia and Stewart Downing moving to the tip of a diamond formation,
West Ham roared back from two goals down to snatch a point. The centre
forward put himself about to great effect, occupying Ryan Shawcross and Marc
Wilson, making space for his teammates and, at one point, becoming embroiled
in an altercation with Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic. "I think we knew we
needed a bit of my presence up front in the second half," Cole began. "In
the first half, Enner was trying his best but they have got two big boys at
the back who needed a bit of entertaining! "Enner got free in the second
half and that's how he got his goal. Stewart Downing has got an assist and a
goal too and I'm just glad to be part of it. "I just ruffled a few feathers
and created a melee in the box. Their keeper gripped me and I wasn't having
that so I got them wound up and off their game a little bit. "It's all about
the experience and we had the players to come off the bench to ruffle a few
feathers if need be and the manager used us."
Before the introduction of Cole and, at 2-1 down, captain Kevin Nolan, West
Ham were second best to their hosts. Victor Moses poked Stoke in front on 23
minutes before Mame Biram Diouf doubled their advantage on 56, while Adrian
also had to be at his best to deny the Senegal forward just before
half-time. However, the introduction of two experienced players changed the
course of the game, with Downing and Valencia combining to set each other up
for the comeback goals. "The players will be the first to tell you that we
didn't play well, but you know it's going to be a tough game when you come
to a place like Stoke," said Cole. "It was a hard-fought game and if you'd
told me we were going to get a point before the game, to be totally honest I
would have taken it. "Although I think we can go anywhere and score goals
now, we knew they were going to come at us. They want to be in our position
and show they are as a good as us, but we showed great belief and mental
strength to come from 2-0 down."
While Cole was the main source of goals for West Ham for many seasons, he is
now surrounded by players who know where the back of the net is. With 19
goals in just ten league games so far, the 31-year-old is loving the
Hammers' new-found potency. "That's what I'm saying. We've got goals all
over the pitch and it helps the strikers out so much and takes a bit of
pressure off everybody, which is what you need. You need goals from all
departments. "Obviously Diafra Sakho was out, so we needed other players to
come in and live up to expectations, and I thought that was what happened.
"Stewie set up a goal and scored one with his right foot, which is an
example of the standard he is setting for himself. He's working hard, never
giving up and he's playing really well."
Cole himself was also proud to become just the third Hammer to reach 200
Premier League appearances, following Steve Potts and Mark Noble.
"It's been up and down and I'm just glad to be involved in the ups right
now," he said. "Hopefully I can keep on going now, because it's a long old
season and we need to keep churning out the points. "I'm happy to be at West
Ham - everyone knows that - and I'll keep showing the passion in my play. "I
know I didn't have my best game at Stoke, but I just wanted to get that
lucky goal at the end when it goes in off my shin or something to win the
game! It wasn't to be fairytale 200th appearance, but that's OK."
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Downing the dazzling diamond
WHUFC.com
Stewart Downing is loving life at the tip of West Ham United's new diamond
formation
03.11.2014
Stewart Downing is loving life at the tip of West Ham United's new diamond
formation. The midfielder is being tipped for an England return after a
series of dazzling performances in recent weeks, and could add to his 34
caps when Roy Hodgson names his squad for upcoming fixtures with Slovenia
and Scotland. Downing has chalked up four assists and two goals in his
opening ten Barclays Premier League appearances this term, catching the eye
with his outstanding passing and delivery, pace and ability to open up
opposition defences almost at will. Having spent the majority of his
professional career on the wing, the No11 has enjoyed seeing more of the
ball and having a greater influence on the game from a central position. On
Saturday, a switch to the diamond formation brought a vital equaliser from
Downing to secure a 2-2 draw at Stoke City. "Yes, it's brilliant," he
enthused. "To be fair to the manager in the second half, he called me over
and made the change and said he was just going to go for it. "Credit to him
because he made the change. I was quite happy out wide, but it was difficult
to get involved at times, so credit to him for putting me in the middle and
going for it, because it's paid off for us and we've got a point out of the
game. "Enner Valencia got to the line it was a great pull-back. Cheikh and
Ginge went for it and missed it and it came through bodies and I thought I
needed to make a clean contact and make their keeper work. I probably had a
little bit of luck because it went through bodies and their keeper couldn't
see it until the last minute. He got a hand to it, but we needed that little
bit of luck in the game because for large periods we didn't play well."
Prior to scoring himself, Downing had given a reminder of his wing wizardry
when he sped down the right before crossing for Valencia to launch West
Ham's dramatic second-half comeback. "It was probably the first time we had
a bit of space to go forward down the line," he recalled. "It was probably
the first bit of quality we had during the game, because I thought we were
poor in the first half. "It was a great finish from him and a great time to
score because it put them on the back foot and you could sense it. "It was a
great game for the neutral watching because it was end to end, but from the
manager's point of view some of the stuff we did wasn't very good. The
pleasing thing is we didn't play well, but we got a point which was a big
point as well."
Having produced another eye-catching display, does Downing expect to receive
the call from Hodgson when his squad is named later this week? "I think I've
said before that if he picks me I would love it," he admitted. "I've just
got to keep playing well and getting goals and creating and if I do well it
gives him something to think about. "We'll see what happens. There are a
couple of injuries, so we'll see who he picks in the squad. I know Roy has
been to games and watched us, but my attitude is 'If he picks me, great, but
if he doesn't I'll just keep on working and getting on with it. "I've just
got to keep showing different parts to my game. If he's been watching the
past six or seven weeks, it's not only been me who has been playing well in
our team. We'll see, it'll be interesting."
Whether he is called by England or not, Downing will be focusing all of his
efforts this week on preparing to face former club Aston Villa, who visit
the Boleyn Ground on Saturday afternoon. The Villans, who the
Middlesbrough-born midfielder served between 2009 and 2011, have lost their
last six league matches, but Downing is not expecting an easy ride against
Paul Lambert's side. "The manager stressed before Stoke that, after beating
Man City, we couldn't go out thinking we just had to go out and we had won
the game. "In the first half, they could have been out of sight, to be
honest, with the chances they had. Our keeper made a great save from Mame
Biram Diouf just before half-time and if he had scored it would have been
2-0. "They are all tough games and playing at home can be tougher than
playing away. They will come and make it hard for us but if we produce the
quality we did in the last half-hour at Stoke then we'll definitely get
chances in the game."
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Ginge delighted with Downing form
WHUFC.com
James Collins says Stewart Downing is one of a host of Hammers pushing for
an England call-up
03.11.2014
James Collins making a block is a sight West Ham United fans have become
accustomed to during his two spells in Claret and Blue.
At Stoke City, Ginge was at it again, throwing his body in front of anything
that moved in and around the Hammers penalty area.
While one such block inadvertently led to Stoke's opening goal in Saturday's
2-2 Barclays Premier League draw, Collins emerged with immense credit from
yet another all-action performance. The Hammers fell two goals down to
strikes from Victor Moses and Mame Biram Diouf, but recovered to snatch a
point through Enner Valencia's diving header and Stewart Downing's
first-time finish. "It was hard in the first half because they made it tough
for us," said the Wales international. "We weren't great but Stoke played
very well. We stayed in the game and with the firepower we've got we knew
we'd get chances. "I had to play like I did and coming to Stoke I knew it
was going to be like that. It was one of those days where it fell on my head
or I managed to get a block on it. "I was disappointed to concede two goals
but we managed to get back into it. It's nice to be back in the team and
playing in a confident, winning team. "We knew it was going to be tough
without Diafra Sakho, who everybody has been talking about for weeks now,
but it shows the strength in depth we have now with boys coming in and
playing very well. "We've come to Stoke, a very tough game, and somehow from
2-0 down we've come back to 2-2 and everybody is delighted."
While Collins himself was impressive, the impact made by Downing was
outstanding yet again, with the No11 picking up his fourth assist and second
goal of a superb season so far. The centre-back believes it will not be long
before the wider football world give Downing the credit he deserves for his
outstanding form. "It's no surprise to me because I obviously had three
years at Aston Villa with him as well before he came down here. "Stewie is a
world-class player whether it's behind the strikers, in central midfield or
out wide. The Gaffer asked him to play out wide because of Diafra Sakho's
injury and again he's put in a great performance, set a goal up and scored
one. You can't ask for much more. "I've been fortunate enough to play and
train with him for a number of years now and good players can play anywhere.
"I think he deserves the recognition because he is playing superbly at the
minute. He is probably the driving force in our team, whether it's through
the middle or out wide. It's nice to see him getting back in the limelight.
"If he keeps playing the way he is playing, I'm sure an England call-up will
not be far away."
While Downing already has 33 England caps to his name, Collins believes Mark
Noble, Carl Jenkinson and Aaron Cresswell should also come into Roy
Hodgson's thoughts if they maintain their current form. "I think we've got a
number of players in our squad who should be pushing for England places -
Mark Noble to name one, Stewie and the two full-backs who are playing great.
"It's all coming down to their club form and long may that form continue.
"I'm sure if Roy Hodgson comes down to watch the boys when he can, he will
see consistent performers who play very well for their club. For me, I don't
know what more they can do."
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Loan round up
WHUFC.com
Catch up on how the five West Ham United loan players fared in this
weekend's games
03.11.2014
Modibo Maiga scored a brace as FC Metz beat Caen 3-2 in a thrilling game at
Stade Saint-Symphorien. The Malian born striker opened the scoring after ten
minutes following an assist from ex-Chelsea winger Florent Malouda. Maiga
doubled the lead just after half time before Caen came back with goals from
Jean Calve and Bengali-Fode Koita. The drama continued when Malouda scored
in the 90th minute, securing Les Grenats' fifth win of their league
campaign.
Sean Maguire played the full 90 minutes as Accrington Stanley secured a 2-1
win over Lancashire rivals Morecambe. Stanley took an early lead through
Luke Joyce's fifth minute penalty before Shay McCartan doubled their lead in
the eleventh minute.
George Moncur played the full game as Colchester United slipped to a 2-1
home defeat by Port Vale. Goals from Mark Marshall and Colin Daniel secured
the three points while Freddie Sears scored a late consolation goal.
Ravel Morrison came on the 81st minute as Cardiff City's revival under new
manager Russell Slade continued by beating Leeds United 3-1. Goals from
Bruno Ecuele Manga, Federico Macheda and Kenwyne Jones see the Bluebirds
stay eleventh.
Elliot Lee missed Southend United's 2-1 victory over Mansfield Town through
injury. The young striker has joined the Shrimpers on a three month loan.
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Allardyce to lead West Ham into the OS, hints Sullivan
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 3rd November 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Sullivan has admitted it is 'probable' that Sam Allardyce will still
be in charge when West Ham move to the Olympic Stadium in two years time.
West Ham's largest single shareholder and current co-owner told Sky Sports
this afternoon that although talks regarding a contract extension for the
manager are on hold until the end of the season - as established previously
- he believes Allardyce could be the man to lead West Ham into their new
home. Asked whether he thought Allarydce would still be in charge come the
start of the 2016/17 season, West Ham's first in Stratford, Sullivan
replied: "In all probability - but he might be the manager of Manchester
United or the manager of England. Anything is possible in football. "We will
sit down at the end of this season with Sam and sees how he feels about
everything and then decide what we are doing. "Fans are warming to him but
he's from the north and West Ham is a London club. We didn't play the best
football at the time but I don't think it was as bad as people said. They
are warming to the new Sam, and the new West Ham, and the way we are
playing."
Recent weeks have witnessed an abrupt change of fortune for Allardyce, who
just three months ago was still being loudly heckled by some sections of
West Ham's fanbase that insisted the club could only progress by firing the
60-year-old. However a four-match unbeaten run has propelled the Hammers
into the Premier League's top five, which has resulted in many of his former
detractors now backing Allardyce's continued employment at the club.
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Sam Allardyce set for West Ham contract talks, says David Sullivan
Last Updated: 03/11/14 10:22pm
SSN
West Ham co-owner David Sullivan says he will hold talks with Sam Allardyce
about a new contract at the end of the season. West Ham co-owner David
Sullivan says he will hold new contract talks with manager Sam Allardyce at
the end of the current season. Sullivan says fans are warming to the new
style of football that the Hammers are playing under Big Sam this season, a
new approach that has seen the club climb to fifth in the Premier League
table. "We will all sit down exactly the same as we did last season,
exactly the same as the season before and the end of the first year in the
Premier League when Sam's contract ran out and we sat down and agreed a new
deal," Sullivan told Sky Sports News HQ. "We will sit down at the end of
this season with Sam and sees how he feels about everything and see how he
feels about everything and then decide what we are doing. When asked if
Allardyce would be the manager to lead the club into the Olympic Stadium for
the 2016-17 season, Sullivan added: "In all probability but he might be the
manager of Manchester United or the manager of England, anything is possible
in football." "He has an image of being some sort of rough northerner and
probably not very bright" He said: "It's very amicable, we have never had a
cross word. Sam is an intelligent, smart person. He has an image of being
some sort of rough northerner and probably not very bright - this is the
image I would say. "But, in fact he is a very intelligent person, he
analyses stats, he analyses performance, he analyses the opposition, he
analyses his own players and he is a very, very intelligent man. You can
have a very sensible conversation with him. "Fans are warming to him but
he's from the north and West Ham is a London club. We didn't play the best
football at the time but I don't think it was as bad as people said. They
are warming to the new Sam, and the new West Ham, and the way we are
playing."
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MANAGER OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER
By Sean Whetstone 3 Nov 2014 at 16:58
West Ham till I Die
Sam Allardyce must have a good chance of winning the Barclays Premier League
Manager of the month for October.after winning all three games against QPR.
Manchester City and Burnley in the month. The narrow defeat against
Manchester United fell at the end of September and the weekend's draw
against Stoke fell on the first day of November meaning he achieved nine
points out of nine in October.
His main competitor Ronald Koeman won the manager of the month for September
and despite a 8-0 win against Sunderland they lost to Spurs on the 5th
October.
Sam last won the Barclays Premier League Manager of the month back in
February this year after he guided the Hammers to four wins out of four
through February, beating Swansea City, Aston Villa, Norwich City and
Southampton.
We have all come a long way since the dark days of last season which
provoked a lack of confidence in the manager among many Hammers fans. The
owners refused to be swayed by fan protest and stuck with their manager but
they did insist on changes and bought extremely well in the transfer window
as they took a greater control over the recruitment policy. It was never
personal against Sam, just his style of play with no plan B which annoyed
many fans, this made going to watch West Ham week in week out last season a
chore but this season we look forward to the excitement of forthcoming
matches as we know goals will be scored.
While I wish Sam all the best to win this award for October manager of the
month I think this has been a massive team effort both on and off the pitch.
Our owners particularly David Sullivan who worked tirelessly to bring in
quality transfers,Teddy Sherringham, Neil McDonald and the other back room
boys in getting the players to adapt to the Premier League so quickly as
well as the whole team guided by Sam Allardyce have now turned West Ham into
one of the best in form teams while being entertaining. We have our West Ham
way back!
I also think fans played they small part last season by insisting to the
board that things needed to change. With hindsight It appears a leopard does
change it's spots and If I owe Sam an apology for suggesting he couldn't
adapt I am man enough to admit I was wrong and say Sorry to Mr Allardici.
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Stewart Downing bidding for England recall after impressing in West Ham's
buoyant start
Nov 02, 2014 22:30 By David Anderson
The rejuvenated former Aston Villa winger won the last of his 34 caps in Roy
Hodgson's first game in charge against Norway in May 2012
The Mirror
Stewart Downing hopes he has given Roy Hodgson a big problem. The England
boss names his next squad on Thursday and Downing has his fingers crossed he
will be included. West Ham midfielder Downing has been in the wilderness
since winning the last of his 34 caps in -Hodgson's first game in charge
against Norway in May 2012. The 30-year-old has been -rejuvenated since Sam
Allardyce moved him to a central role and he showed his versatility at the
Britannia, shining when he was switched to the right because of Diafra
Sakho's absence.
The former Liverpool winger led West Ham's fightback, creating Enner
Valencia's goal before cracking home the -equaliser, both times with his
supposedly weaker right foot. "If he picks me it would be unbelievable,"
said Downing. "I'd love to play for England. "I think the main thing for me
is that I've got to keep playing well and if I can nick goals and create, it
gives him a problem to think about. We'll see what happens next week. There
are a couple of injuries there and I'll look at the squad, see what he does
and who he picks. "I know he's been to games and is watching us, so we'll
see. That's my attitude at the minute. If he picks me, great. If not, I'll
just carry on."
James Collins played with Downing at Aston Villa and says picking him should
be a no-brainer.The centre-half, who was a rock against Stoke, said: "I know
what Stewie can do, he's a world-class player. "Whether it's in the middle,
behind the strikers, he can play centre midfield or out wide. I don't know
how much more he has to do to get into the England team. If you're playing
well for your club and people are talking about you, it shouldn't matter who
you play for. You could be playing in the Championship." Stoke had been
dominant for the first hour before Downing's intervention and Victor Moses
poked home his first Potters goal before Mame Diouf headed in their second.
City felt the game turned when ref Chris Foy played advantage after Alex
Song lunged at Diouf two-footed instead of stopping play and punishing the
Hammers' midfielder. Moses lost the ball and Downing produced a surging run
down the right to tee up Valencia's goal. Despite feeling aggrieved, Steven
Nzonzi admits Stoke should have put the game to bed by this point. "That's a
problem for us, closing out games," said the French midfielder. "When you
are winning 2-0, you should win. We should have been more patient, more
compact -defensively."
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Amalfitano contract rests on 25 starts
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Morgan Amalfitano needs to make 25 Premier League starts for the Irons if
he's to win an automatic contract extension. Newspaper stories today
suggested that the player would be granted his "wish" of getting an extended
contract at the Boleyn. However, ClaretandHugh has learned that the terms
are all covered in his contract and that the extension will only kick in
automatically after the 25th start.
We were told: "We look at stuff like that later in the season. IF he makes a
certain number of PL starts, its automatically extended.
But we have the right to extend if we want anyway so there's no hurry up
involved. Everything was sorted at the contract signing stage."
The 29 year old is keen to stay at the club and was reported as saying: "I
hope to contribute to ensure I stay here. I'm adapting well and hope it
carries on."
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Huge Benteke boost for Hammers
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke's absence from the clash with the
Hammers at the weekend is a huge plus for the Irons. ClaretandHugh's top
analyst Leroy Rosenior reckons the big fella was coming back to his best
against Spurs at the weekend and that his sending off and resulting
suspension for the Boleyn match is "fantastic" news. He said: Benteke is
their focal point - a mega presence and not having him to worry about him
makes - or should make - life considerably easier for us. Benteke raised his
hand to Ryan Mason's face after being shoved by the Spurs player during the
match at Villa Park on Sunday. Mason escaped disciplinary action but looked
a major offender and should perhaps have joined the striker but regardless
of that it was all good news for the Irons as Benteke walked. Rosenior said:
"There are no excuses for Benteke's but I think Mason should have gone as
well. However, there's no question the striker's absence should make life
easier for us."
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Irons watch Shrimpers keeper
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are closely monitoring the form of promising Southend keeper Daniel
Bentley! The 21 year old has been a near ever present for the Shrimpers over
the last couple of seasons and has been watched by the Hammers during that
period. Sam Allardyce and Southend boss Phil Brown have a close relationship
from Bolton days and Bentley could find himself on the move to Upton park as
back-up to Adrian next summer. A Hammers source told Claretandhugh: "The
goalkeeping position is one we are looking to strengthen in the summer.
Jussi can still do a job if needed but we have to look to the future. Benley
is a good young keeper but we have a long short list although he would
figure prominently upon it."
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Adrian back to his best
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 3, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
One of the most encouraging features o f the last couple of games has been
to see goalkeeper Adrian returning to his best. The Spaniard was perhaps
looking more suspect than he had been last season but his performances
against Manchester City and Stoke have been nearly faultless. Hammers
legendary stopper Phil Parkes pointed out earlier in the season that the
keeper may suffer a spot of the second seas syndrome and claimed he was
still on a learning curve. That he has overcome a slightly anxious opening
period and returned to top form, is hugely encouraging at a time when the
team is going so well. He showed he was back to his best with two saves in
particular, first when saving well from Mame Diouf blocking the shot with
his legs and then near the end making another brilliant save from Geoff
Cameron.
But for those efforts the outcome of the game may have been very different.
It was a far cry from the questions some were asking of his handling earlier
in the season. Thankfully, the learning curve Parksey talked of is in full
swing and going very well indeed.
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Monday, November 3
Daily WHUFC News - 3rd November 2014
U18s return to winning ways
WHUFC.com
Jerry Amoo's late goal secured a 1-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory at Norwich City
02.11.2014
Jerry Amoo's late goal secured a 1-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory at Norwich City on Saturday. West Ham United travelled to Norfolk on the back of consecutive 3-1 defeats by Fulham and Aston Villa which ended their unbeaten eight-match start to the season. However, Steve Potts' side showed no ill-effects from those two losses as they produced a display that could easily have been rewarded with a more comprehensive win. West Ham had the majority of clear-cut chances at Norwich's Colney Training Centre, with Tunji Akinola seeing a shot blocked, Manny Onariase twice firing off-target and Amoo forcing a fine save from the home goalkeeper from Djair Parfitt-Williams' through ball. At the other end, the Hammers defended stoutly, with Oscar Borg throwing himself in front of one goalbound shot. The first half ended goalless, with Joe Powell firing a free-kick past the post for the visitors in the closing moments. Into the second half and West Ham started brightly, with Parfitt-Williams seeing a shot saved before combining with Borg to set up Powell, who forced an outstanding save from the Norwich goalkeeper. Powell saw another shot saved from Amoo's right-wing cross before the Canaries finally got themselves back into things midway through the second period. First, a header flashed wide before Sam Howes was forced to make a fine stop to keep his side on level pegging. Potts sent on Decarrey Sheriff and Swiss youngster Noha Sylvestre for Powell and Kieran Bailey and the changes sparked one last thrust from the Hammers. Amoo was the man to win it for West Ham. Borg's fine work in the corner led to a cross and a scramble inside the Norwich penalty area that ended with the midfielder firing home to secure all three points for his side.
U18s: Howes, Pike, Borg, Carter, Akinola, Onariase, Amoo, Browne, Powell (Sheriff), Bailey (Sylvestre), Parfitt-Williams
Subs not used: Bogard, Elsom, Eggleton
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Tonks thrilled to be back
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins was delighted to play his part in West Ham United's draw at Stoke City
02.11.2014
James Tomkins made his return from a thigh injury when entering the fray as an early substitute at Stoke City on Saturday and he was delighted to play his part in a stirring West Ham United comeback. The Hammers were in trouble when Mame Diouf added to Victor Moses' opener early in the second half at the Britannia Stadium, but the Londoners showed adrmirable fortitude to claim a point. First Enner Valencia guided a diving header beyond Asmir Begovic, then Stewart Downing slammed home from inside the box, leaving the near-3,000 strong travelling crowd with reason to cheer. Tomkins had to dig in alongside his fellow defenders in the face of a strong first hour from the home side and he was delighted to go home with a point. "Going 2-0 down was a disappointment, but to show the character [to come back] shows the team spirit and the confidence," he explained. "We never doubted ourselves even though we did go 2-0 down. It's a hard place to come to, so it felt like a win in the end to get a point. It's a good result. "It obviously caught me by surprise with Reidy going off, but you have to come on and start [from the off]. Stoke started well and had the momentum, so you've got to be ready for it. "It was nice to get back out there. It was my first time back in the squad and I felt like I put a good shift in considering the circumstances."
Tomkins emphasised the importance of building on the previous weekend's victory over Manchester City and he says the two-goal fightback meant it was mission accomplished. He continued: "It's nice to come away from here not losing - we're on a good run at the moment and it's important not to lose games. it does feel like a little win, even though it's just a point and it's all good going into the Villa game next week. "Like the Gaffer said before the game, you can't beat Manchester City then go to Stoke City, and no disrespect to them, and leave with a bad taste in the mouth. "It was important to come here and get a result. That's our bread and butter, so to come here and do that is great."
West Ham's fightback came following a half-time tactical switch which saw Carlton Cole come on up front and Enner Valencia move to a wider position and Tomkins felt the pair worked well in tandem. He added: "Putting a big man like Coley up front means he's always going to try and hold balls up for us and cause the defence a nuiscance. "He put himself about, and Enner's scored a great header. Then Stewie's nicked one with his right peg, and that's really good for them. "Enner will cause havoc this season, hopefully he won't get too tired having played in the World Cup, but Saturday shows what a talented player he is."
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West Ham teenager Reece Oxford yet to agree professional contract
Last Updated: 02/11/14 12:08pm
SSN
Highly-rated West Ham defender Reece Oxford is no closer to agreeing a professional deal at Upton Park. The 6ft 3ins tall teenager, who turns 16 in December, captained England U17s in the summer and was an unused substitute for West Ham in their Capital One Cup defeat to Sheffield United in September. West Ham are battling to keep hold of Oxford with a number of the Premier League's big guns keen to lure him away from the Hammers. The likes of Arsenal,Chelsea and Manchester United have all sent scouts to watch the stylish centre-back on numerous occasions with Oxford a regular in the West Ham under 21s side this season. West Ham have previously indicated they were prepared to offer Oxford a lucrative deal to keep him out of the clutches of their Premier League rivals, but no agreement has been reached as yet.
Should West Ham fail to tie down Oxford to a new deal they risk losing one of the best talents to come through their famed academy for minimal compensation should he go to another club.
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Why Stoke City and Mark Hughes can not (only) blame referee Chris Foy for West Ham comeback
Matt MeirSunday 2 Nov 2014 8:08 pm
Metro.co.uk
Earning a point against a side sitting inside the top five of the Premier League is usually something to be proud of. But this was West Ham – and we were winning by two clear goals. The side that we beat home and away last year, a side that struggled to avoid relegation, has had fortunes and ethics turned around by Sam Allardyce – a manager not known for compromise, and who must have been wondering when his P45 would arrive towards the end of the season. The pivotal moment came on the hour mark.
Stoke, already two goals up, were breaking at speed. The ball had come to goalscorer Mame Biram Diouf on the halfway line – and here he had a choice. Spread the ball right, to the two on-rushing Stoke midfielders, or left where there were three. Whilst Diouf made his decision, Alex Song decided to launch himself – feet first, studs showing – towards his knees. Fortunately, the rash and reckless challenge failed to make contact with Diouf, who spread the ball to Victor Moses on the Stoke left – who carelessly gave the ball away. West Ham broke away and scored their first of two. The infuriating part of all that though, was the tackle.
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Andy Carroll gets kicked out of store in Rome – for filming himself modelling in H&M advert
Vaishali Bhardwaj for Metro.co.uk
Sunday 2 Nov 2014 1:40 pm
Andy Carroll was involved in a rather bizarre moment while visiting Rome – after the West Ham striker was kicked out of a store for filming his appearance in an H&M advert. Carroll posted a video on social media on Sunday, in which the England international recorded an advert of him modelling for H&M's campaign for Alexander Wang that was being shown in the store. Despite the fact that he was filming himself, a stern-looking worker approached Carroll to tell him that recording was not permitted inside the store. The Hammers forward kept on filming the advert, however, before he later revealed on Instagram that he had been asked to leave for not complying with the request.
Alongside a clip of his modelling debut on the social media site, Carroll wrote: 'Sorry mate just trying to record myself!!! #KickedOut #Rome #H&M'Harsh!
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David Gold delivers Sakho & Zarate injury updates ahead of Aston Villa clash
HITC
Tim Poole
The West Ham co-chairman has good news for fans about the fitness of star strikers Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate. Barely have the celebrations got underway after another hard-earned Premier League point for West Ham United - and preparations for their next clash are already up and running. The Hammers put in a shift after coming back from 2-0 down at Stoke yesterday afternoon, earning themselves a brilliant 2-2 draw under the circumstances. That result leaves West Ham fifth in the table this weekend. But the focus is already on their next game. In a week's time, Sam Allardyce's side host Aston Villa and many supporters want to know if star strikers Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate will be fit for that clash.
Good news, according to West Ham co-chairman David Gold...
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@Coady86: @davidgold is sakho back for villa game?
He should be fit for Saturday. dg
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@01Whtid: @davidgold if sakho ain't fit to play on Saturday is there a chance for zarate to play?
Zarate is fit to play. Dg
Sakho has been in supreme form so far this season but missed the Stoke City clash through injury. Should he be fit for Saturday as Gold predicts, however, the Senegal striker will give the Hammers another big Premier League boost, while leaving Aston Villa fans with even more unwanted news. And, as Gold says, even if he isn't, Zarate will be.
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Here's the Iron Hodgson's really watching
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 2, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that Aaron Cresswell is being monitored by Roy Hodgson for a place in his next England squad is wide of the mark. The story appeared in a Sunday newspaper today but ClaretandHugh has been told by well placed Boleyn sources that the real object of the England manager's attention is Stewart Downing. And we can confirm that Hodgson – impressed with Downing against Manchester City last week – is seriously considering including the player in his next squad. A source said: "Roy let it be known that Downing was the guy he was taking an interest in ahead of the European Championship qualifier against Slovenia on November 15 and the friendly against Scotland in Glasgow four days later.
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Leroy: 'Sparky' Hughes tries to have it both ways
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 2, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Hughes tried to have it both ways yesterday and his post-match complaints that Alex Song got away with a studs-up tackle don't wash!
He complained that Song should have been penalised but that ref Chris Foy allowed it to go unpunished but that was only half the story.
For the referee – one of our most senior – was playing an advantage which had allowed his team to break away before the attempted attack was turned over and Stewart Downing produced a cross which allowed the comeback to start. Yes, it was a naughty Song challenge but the ref called the situation correctly and Sparky's little moan is an example of how bosses sometimes really do want it all ways.
Stoke were probably the best team on the day but this is a different West Ham and one that I am very proud of because they refused to give it up and the fans – as expressed by both co owners were stunning. Stewart Downing is in outstanding form and now has the confidence to cross with right or left foot and as a result City were made to suffer. Even after the first goal, and without Diafra Sakho, we showed that we are a talented team with bit of steel about us. Nobody will fancy playing us this season Without Sakho around, Stewart Downing really stepped up to the plate and showed himself as the main man. He's in the form of his career. Ok we aren't gonna win every game but – and although it's been said many times is worth repeating – the distance we've travelled from last season is staggering.
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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WHUFC.com
Jerry Amoo's late goal secured a 1-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory at Norwich City
02.11.2014
Jerry Amoo's late goal secured a 1-0 Barclays U18 Premier League victory at Norwich City on Saturday. West Ham United travelled to Norfolk on the back of consecutive 3-1 defeats by Fulham and Aston Villa which ended their unbeaten eight-match start to the season. However, Steve Potts' side showed no ill-effects from those two losses as they produced a display that could easily have been rewarded with a more comprehensive win. West Ham had the majority of clear-cut chances at Norwich's Colney Training Centre, with Tunji Akinola seeing a shot blocked, Manny Onariase twice firing off-target and Amoo forcing a fine save from the home goalkeeper from Djair Parfitt-Williams' through ball. At the other end, the Hammers defended stoutly, with Oscar Borg throwing himself in front of one goalbound shot. The first half ended goalless, with Joe Powell firing a free-kick past the post for the visitors in the closing moments. Into the second half and West Ham started brightly, with Parfitt-Williams seeing a shot saved before combining with Borg to set up Powell, who forced an outstanding save from the Norwich goalkeeper. Powell saw another shot saved from Amoo's right-wing cross before the Canaries finally got themselves back into things midway through the second period. First, a header flashed wide before Sam Howes was forced to make a fine stop to keep his side on level pegging. Potts sent on Decarrey Sheriff and Swiss youngster Noha Sylvestre for Powell and Kieran Bailey and the changes sparked one last thrust from the Hammers. Amoo was the man to win it for West Ham. Borg's fine work in the corner led to a cross and a scramble inside the Norwich penalty area that ended with the midfielder firing home to secure all three points for his side.
U18s: Howes, Pike, Borg, Carter, Akinola, Onariase, Amoo, Browne, Powell (Sheriff), Bailey (Sylvestre), Parfitt-Williams
Subs not used: Bogard, Elsom, Eggleton
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Tonks thrilled to be back
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins was delighted to play his part in West Ham United's draw at Stoke City
02.11.2014
James Tomkins made his return from a thigh injury when entering the fray as an early substitute at Stoke City on Saturday and he was delighted to play his part in a stirring West Ham United comeback. The Hammers were in trouble when Mame Diouf added to Victor Moses' opener early in the second half at the Britannia Stadium, but the Londoners showed adrmirable fortitude to claim a point. First Enner Valencia guided a diving header beyond Asmir Begovic, then Stewart Downing slammed home from inside the box, leaving the near-3,000 strong travelling crowd with reason to cheer. Tomkins had to dig in alongside his fellow defenders in the face of a strong first hour from the home side and he was delighted to go home with a point. "Going 2-0 down was a disappointment, but to show the character [to come back] shows the team spirit and the confidence," he explained. "We never doubted ourselves even though we did go 2-0 down. It's a hard place to come to, so it felt like a win in the end to get a point. It's a good result. "It obviously caught me by surprise with Reidy going off, but you have to come on and start [from the off]. Stoke started well and had the momentum, so you've got to be ready for it. "It was nice to get back out there. It was my first time back in the squad and I felt like I put a good shift in considering the circumstances."
Tomkins emphasised the importance of building on the previous weekend's victory over Manchester City and he says the two-goal fightback meant it was mission accomplished. He continued: "It's nice to come away from here not losing - we're on a good run at the moment and it's important not to lose games. it does feel like a little win, even though it's just a point and it's all good going into the Villa game next week. "Like the Gaffer said before the game, you can't beat Manchester City then go to Stoke City, and no disrespect to them, and leave with a bad taste in the mouth. "It was important to come here and get a result. That's our bread and butter, so to come here and do that is great."
West Ham's fightback came following a half-time tactical switch which saw Carlton Cole come on up front and Enner Valencia move to a wider position and Tomkins felt the pair worked well in tandem. He added: "Putting a big man like Coley up front means he's always going to try and hold balls up for us and cause the defence a nuiscance. "He put himself about, and Enner's scored a great header. Then Stewie's nicked one with his right peg, and that's really good for them. "Enner will cause havoc this season, hopefully he won't get too tired having played in the World Cup, but Saturday shows what a talented player he is."
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West Ham teenager Reece Oxford yet to agree professional contract
Last Updated: 02/11/14 12:08pm
SSN
Highly-rated West Ham defender Reece Oxford is no closer to agreeing a professional deal at Upton Park. The 6ft 3ins tall teenager, who turns 16 in December, captained England U17s in the summer and was an unused substitute for West Ham in their Capital One Cup defeat to Sheffield United in September. West Ham are battling to keep hold of Oxford with a number of the Premier League's big guns keen to lure him away from the Hammers. The likes of Arsenal,Chelsea and Manchester United have all sent scouts to watch the stylish centre-back on numerous occasions with Oxford a regular in the West Ham under 21s side this season. West Ham have previously indicated they were prepared to offer Oxford a lucrative deal to keep him out of the clutches of their Premier League rivals, but no agreement has been reached as yet.
Should West Ham fail to tie down Oxford to a new deal they risk losing one of the best talents to come through their famed academy for minimal compensation should he go to another club.
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Why Stoke City and Mark Hughes can not (only) blame referee Chris Foy for West Ham comeback
Matt MeirSunday 2 Nov 2014 8:08 pm
Metro.co.uk
Earning a point against a side sitting inside the top five of the Premier League is usually something to be proud of. But this was West Ham – and we were winning by two clear goals. The side that we beat home and away last year, a side that struggled to avoid relegation, has had fortunes and ethics turned around by Sam Allardyce – a manager not known for compromise, and who must have been wondering when his P45 would arrive towards the end of the season. The pivotal moment came on the hour mark.
Stoke, already two goals up, were breaking at speed. The ball had come to goalscorer Mame Biram Diouf on the halfway line – and here he had a choice. Spread the ball right, to the two on-rushing Stoke midfielders, or left where there were three. Whilst Diouf made his decision, Alex Song decided to launch himself – feet first, studs showing – towards his knees. Fortunately, the rash and reckless challenge failed to make contact with Diouf, who spread the ball to Victor Moses on the Stoke left – who carelessly gave the ball away. West Ham broke away and scored their first of two. The infuriating part of all that though, was the tackle.
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Andy Carroll gets kicked out of store in Rome – for filming himself modelling in H&M advert
Vaishali Bhardwaj for Metro.co.uk
Sunday 2 Nov 2014 1:40 pm
Andy Carroll was involved in a rather bizarre moment while visiting Rome – after the West Ham striker was kicked out of a store for filming his appearance in an H&M advert. Carroll posted a video on social media on Sunday, in which the England international recorded an advert of him modelling for H&M's campaign for Alexander Wang that was being shown in the store. Despite the fact that he was filming himself, a stern-looking worker approached Carroll to tell him that recording was not permitted inside the store. The Hammers forward kept on filming the advert, however, before he later revealed on Instagram that he had been asked to leave for not complying with the request.
Alongside a clip of his modelling debut on the social media site, Carroll wrote: 'Sorry mate just trying to record myself!!! #KickedOut #Rome #H&M'Harsh!
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David Gold delivers Sakho & Zarate injury updates ahead of Aston Villa clash
HITC
Tim Poole
The West Ham co-chairman has good news for fans about the fitness of star strikers Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate. Barely have the celebrations got underway after another hard-earned Premier League point for West Ham United - and preparations for their next clash are already up and running. The Hammers put in a shift after coming back from 2-0 down at Stoke yesterday afternoon, earning themselves a brilliant 2-2 draw under the circumstances. That result leaves West Ham fifth in the table this weekend. But the focus is already on their next game. In a week's time, Sam Allardyce's side host Aston Villa and many supporters want to know if star strikers Diafra Sakho and Mauro Zarate will be fit for that clash.
Good news, according to West Ham co-chairman David Gold...
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@Coady86: @davidgold is sakho back for villa game?
He should be fit for Saturday. dg
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@01Whtid: @davidgold if sakho ain't fit to play on Saturday is there a chance for zarate to play?
Zarate is fit to play. Dg
Sakho has been in supreme form so far this season but missed the Stoke City clash through injury. Should he be fit for Saturday as Gold predicts, however, the Senegal striker will give the Hammers another big Premier League boost, while leaving Aston Villa fans with even more unwanted news. And, as Gold says, even if he isn't, Zarate will be.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Here's the Iron Hodgson's really watching
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 2, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that Aaron Cresswell is being monitored by Roy Hodgson for a place in his next England squad is wide of the mark. The story appeared in a Sunday newspaper today but ClaretandHugh has been told by well placed Boleyn sources that the real object of the England manager's attention is Stewart Downing. And we can confirm that Hodgson – impressed with Downing against Manchester City last week – is seriously considering including the player in his next squad. A source said: "Roy let it be known that Downing was the guy he was taking an interest in ahead of the European Championship qualifier against Slovenia on November 15 and the friendly against Scotland in Glasgow four days later.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: 'Sparky' Hughes tries to have it both ways
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on November 2, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Hughes tried to have it both ways yesterday and his post-match complaints that Alex Song got away with a studs-up tackle don't wash!
He complained that Song should have been penalised but that ref Chris Foy allowed it to go unpunished but that was only half the story.
For the referee – one of our most senior – was playing an advantage which had allowed his team to break away before the attempted attack was turned over and Stewart Downing produced a cross which allowed the comeback to start. Yes, it was a naughty Song challenge but the ref called the situation correctly and Sparky's little moan is an example of how bosses sometimes really do want it all ways.
Stoke were probably the best team on the day but this is a different West Ham and one that I am very proud of because they refused to give it up and the fans – as expressed by both co owners were stunning. Stewart Downing is in outstanding form and now has the confidence to cross with right or left foot and as a result City were made to suffer. Even after the first goal, and without Diafra Sakho, we showed that we are a talented team with bit of steel about us. Nobody will fancy playing us this season Without Sakho around, Stewart Downing really stepped up to the plate and showed himself as the main man. He's in the form of his career. Ok we aren't gonna win every game but – and although it's been said many times is worth repeating – the distance we've travelled from last season is staggering.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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