Big Sam on: Leicester City
WHUFC.com
The manager looks ahead to Saturday's game against Leicester City
18.12.2014
Sam Allardyce faced the media on Thursday morning ahead of this weekend's
game against Leicester City. The manager revealed he is looking forward to
getting the festive football programme started, even if is promises to be a
hectic time.
Looking ahead to Saturday's game against Leicester, how important is this
part of the season?
SA: "We want to continue this run of form for as long as possible. We've
only lost one game in the last ten which is an excellent run. We're all
looking forward to this quick run of games, the players enjoy it but it is a
very hard, especially for them. We will have to rotate the team because
there will be fatigue, there will be injuries to deal with. We keep our
fingers crossed like never before, there's not time to prepare properly,
it's play, recover, play, recover. If we come out of this period with a few
more points, then we'll
reassess our aims for the rest of the season. "Leicester are a hard team to
break down, they work very hard for each other. Despite their run of games
without a win, they haven't been turned over by anyone, it's only ever by
the odd goal. I saw the Leicester game against Manchester City and I thought
they did very well. There are a lot of dangers in Nigel's teams that we need
to be well aware of. They won't lie down and sit back."
Can you sympathise with Nigel Pearson, getting a club promoted and now under
pressure?
SA: "There's only been one thing missing from Nigel's side and that is
scoring goals. That's everyone's problem really, thankfully we've alleviated
that issue this year. Had the players had their shooting boots on against
Sunderland we would have won comfortably. I spoke to Gus after the game and
we talked about the difficulty of scoring goals consistently. A lot of teams
have struggled, if you look at Liverpool this year compared to Suarez and
Sturridge last season. If Leicester find a striker, or a current player gets
back on form, then they have a good chance of staying up.
"You need a board to back you when you're struggling. I was in a similar
situation at Bolton, we bought in Youri Djoarkaeff. I think he scored six
goals in the last ten games and we stayed up."
What sort of shape is the squad in at the moment? Mark Noble has been
injured for a few weeks, is he available for Saturday?
SA: "No, he's not available for this weekend. He should be available for the
Chelsea game. Everyone else is available for selection which is fantastic
for this stage of the season and it gives us the best chance of winning."
Will any of the young players get a chance to play over the Christmas
period?
SA: "Not at the moment, the current squad is very strong and nearly all fit.
We've got experienced players all the way through the squad, in all sorts of
different leagues across the world. It does depend on how injuries go but I
wouldn't of thought so."
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Tomkins - 'It's a great place to be'
WHUFC.com
Hammers defender James Tomkins is loving the turnaround for his side this
season
17.12.2014
A year can be a long time in football, as West Ham United's last twelve
months attests. Heading into Christmas 2013, the Hammers found themselves in
a relegation scrap with just 14 points from their opening 16 games. Fast
forward a year, and Sam Allardyce's men have collected double that amount of
points from the same number of Barclays Premier League fixtures. James
Tomkins is loving the turnaround and hopes it continues to make 2014/15 the
most successful of his Hammers career to date. "It's a great place to be at
the minute," he said. "Around the training ground everyone is smiling and
happy and it just goes to show what can happen if you put a good run in.
"This time last year was nowhere near as good as it is now - this is
probably the best I've been involved in since I've been a player and
hopefully we can keep the run going. "We've got good attacking players and
we're scoring goals in abundance. That's credit to the lads - a lot of them
are chipping in with goals. We've had 12 different goalscorers this season.
"Even though we're not conceding many, we're not keeping too many clean
sheets, so hopefully we can improve that."
Tomkins has started eleven of West Ham's 16 top flight games this season and
says he is improving with each and every outing. He explained: "I feel that
I get better with each game. That's how I feel when I get a good run of
games and I feel I can get stronger.
"It's not just me, it's the whole team. Every player, not just the starting
eleven, but everyone is happy to come in and step into somebody else's boots
and that really is vital. "Ultimately it is our aim to finish in the top
ten, but I do feel like my performances are coming on strong."
Next up for West Ham is the visit of Leicester City as the Hammers get the
festive season started and Tomkins wants nothing less than three points from
the Foxes meeting. "It's our busiest time of the year, with four games in
twelve games," he said. "Ultimately we're looking at Leicester, and it won't
be an easy game because like you see through the season teams fall by the
wayside against teams lower in the league. "We've got to make sure it
doesn't happen to us this weekend to keep the run going into a difficult
schedule."
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Cole: I've been waiting on you
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Carlton Cole admits he would love to be playing a greater part in West Ham's
success this season - but remains happy at the Boleyn.
Cole, who has been at West Ham for eight years - making him the club's third
longest-serving player behind Academy stars Mark Noble and James Tomkins -
has made just four starts this season and is yet to complete a full 90
minutes. And whilst he is disappointed at having played such a limited role
so far, the 31-year-old insists that he won't be demanding further playing
time and is happy to wait for a chance. That may well come in January when
leading goalscorer Diafra Sakho heads to the African Cup of Nations with
fellow Hammers Cheik Kouyate and Alex Song. Either way, Cole insists he is
happy to wait for an opportunity.
"The manager has explained the situation to everybody," he told the
Standard's Giuseppe Muro. "When I get my chance to step in, I have to make
sure I am ready. Not everyone can play every week and everyone has to be on
their toes. "You have to swallow your pride sometimes when you are not
playing and get on with it. I am celebrating when Andy scores, when Sakho
scores or when Valencia scores. And if I score, I am sure they are
celebrating too. "I am not playing as much as I want but I am a West Ham
fan and I want to see us do well. It is about the team, so whether or not I
am playing is not a problem. "Everyone has their own way of dealing with
disappointment. What would happen if I went knocking on the gaffer's door?
He would probably try and knock me out! You have just got to be
professional, wait your turn and make sure you are ready when the manager
needs you."
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Allardyce on contract situation
KUMB.com
Filed: Thursday, 18th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
It looks like this one will run and run ... Sam Allardyce was asked again
about his contract situation this morning as he met the press ahead of this
weekend's visit of Leicester City. One of our less salubrious tabloid
newspapers reported yesterday that West Ham were preparing to give Big Sam
the chop at the end of the season despite him having taken the club to their
best position in the league this century. And that inevitably meant that
Allardyce was asked at this morning's pre-match presser about the situation
- and forced to issue another rebuttal. "It's the same as it's been all
season," he reiterated. "We'll sit down when we're ready and comfortable and
discuss the situation. That hasn't changed from the start of the season.
"We're comfortable with that position, like I was last time after we got
promoted to the Premier League. I think we talked about that contract at the
end of April, May almost, even though we finished tenth that year. "I've
spoken to David Sullivan about other matters during the last couple of days
but nothing to do with me or my contract."
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West Ham's Carlton Cole: I'd like to play more but if I went knocking on the
gaffer's door, he'd probably knock me out
It takes a brave man to tackle Sam Allardyce, however, Carlton Cole has
other reasons for accepting support role.
Evening Standard
GIUSEPPE MURO
Published: 18 December 2014 Updated: 09:20, 18 December 2014
Carlton Cole will not confront Sam Allardyce over his lack of playing time
despite making just one Premier League start for West Ham since August.
Although the forward is behind Andy Carroll, Enner Valencia and Diafra
Sakho in the pecking order at Upton Park, he is no rush to leave during next
month's transfer window. The season is only 16 games old and Cole, while
playing a bit-part so far, believes his opportunity will arise soon. In the
meantime, he is happy with a supporting role in a West Ham side flying high
in the Champions League places. "It is a weird feeling," explains Cole. "I
am not playing as much as I want but I am a West Ham fan and I want to see
us do well. It is about the team, so whether or not I am playing is not a
problem. "You cannot have bad eggs in the changing room. Everyone has their
own way of dealing with disappointment and I am not one of those guys [who
complains]. "What would happen if I went knocking on the gaffer's door? He
would probably try and knock me out! He explains everything to you but he
does not want you doing that. I have been through it [not playing] before,
and you have just got to be professional, wait your turn and make sure you
are ready when the manager needs you."
Cole, who turned 31 in October and is out of contract at the end of the
season, understands his omission from the team is a consequence of the form
of Sakho and Valencia. The summer signings have been a huge factor in the
club's sparkling start, while Allardyce is understandably delighted to have
Carroll back following his long lay-off with an ankle injury. And not
forgetting Mauro Zarate. Since leading the line in the opening three games
of the season, Cole has been restricted to a solitary start and a place on
the bench. But, with the busy festive period looming and Sakho heading to
the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal next month, Cole senses his chance is
around the corner.
"You do not want to see Sakho go away with his country but you need to keep
momentum and that is why we have a big squad," he says. "That is when you
are going to need the players who have not been playing to come in and do a
job. "The manager has explained the situation it to everybody. When I get my
chance to step in, I have to make sure I am ready. I am in no rush to go
anywhere in January, I am at home here. Who wants to leave their home? "Not
everyone can play every week and everyone has to be on their toes. The ones
who are on the bench have to come on and make a difference when things are
not going our way. That is what we have been doing lately, coming from
behind to pick up points. It is going to be a hectic time over the festive
period and that is what I am banking on to get a few games."
Cole sees himself as an influential figure in the dressing room after nearly
nine years at West Ham and he says the strikers all support each other. "You
have to swallow your pride sometimes when you are not playing and get on
with it," he says. "I am celebrating when Andy scores, when Sakho scores or
when Valencia scores. And if I score, I am sure they are celebrating too. I
have been at the club for a while and I am always supporting anyone who
wants any advice. "We are all together and that is what you need. You do not
need people hating on you and making you feel uncomfortable. That is what
happens when you have bag eggs, and the gaffer is not going to have that in
the squad. He will get rid of you."
Cole is attending the launch of the Lycamobile Cup, the youth football
tournament set up by Lycamobile, the largest global provider of low cost
international calls, West Ham and their Community Sports Trust. His positive
attitude represents the wider mood at the club, with West Ham lying fourth
ahead of Saturday's visit of Leicester. Cole is confident they can maintain
their good form. "We have got the right mix," he says. "This is the
hardest-working squad I've played in here and we have some great players. We
have got a great bunch of lads. We all have a great understanding of each
other and everyone loves each other as brothers. That is why we are doing so
well at the moment. "The aim was top 10 but, where we are now, you have to
re-evaluate where we will end up. Top seven is achievable if we carry on the
way we are going. "The gaffer has done a brilliant job. People were saying
in the summer his job was not safe but that did not bother him. He carried
on fighting and is seeing the fruits of that persistence."
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West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce in no rush to begin contract talks
Last Updated: 18/12/14 6:09pm
SSN
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has played down speculation about his future,
saying nothing has changed since the start of the season.
Newspaper reports had suggested that Allardyce's position was under threat
given that he had not yet agreed a new contract. But the 60-year-old says he
in no rush to begin discussions, having experienced a similar situation when
he agreed a two-year contract extension in 2013. "It's the same as it's been
all season," said Allardyce, whose Hammers side currently sit fourth in the
Premier League. "We'll sit down when we're ready and comfortable, and
discuss the situation. "We're comfortable in that position, like I was the
last time after we got promoted to the Premier League. We talked about that
contract around the end of April, May almost, even though we finished 10th
that year. I don't have any problems with that. "Did I seek any
clarification from the owner on Wednesday? No. I spoke to David Sullivan
over some other matters. It had nothing to do with me or my contract."
Contract
Reports have also suggested that Senegalese striker Diafra Sakho is set to
have his four-year contract renegotiated, following an impressive start to
life at Upton Park. But Allardyce said: "I don't see why we should be
discussing any contracts with anyone too much in this period when we are
playing so many games in such a short period of time. But yet again players
don't see it that way, do they? "If they think it is time for them, they
don't give a monkeys about anyone else, they just get on with their own
thing. They won't worry about the fact that we have got so many games and we
have got to organise this and that."
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THE HAMMERS MISFITS
By Sean Whetstone 18 Dec 2014 at 13:39
West Ham till I Die
While the first team is flying high in fourth place in the Premier League
two of our Hammers misfits have been making the news also.
Maiga has been issued a 48 hour ban from Metz after failing to travel with
the team to a Ligue 1 fixture with Marseille earlier this month. A statement
on their website read:"Metz striker Modibo Maiga did not appear at the
airport the day of travel to Marseille, he was punished with a two-day
lay-off by the disciplinary committee of Metz. In accordance with the
provisions of the ban he will therefore be able to return to training on
Friday 19th December."
In July 2012 West Ham signed Maiga from French side FC Sochaux-Montbeliard
for £4.7m, signing on a four-year contract with an option for a further two
years. He is thought to earn £38,000 per week and it is claimed he rejected
an offer in the summer to buy him out of his contract. Metz are reportedly
paying under £6,000 per week of his wages while on a season long loan.
Unless a buyer is found in the January or Summer transfer windows we are
likely to buy him out his remaining year after his loan finishes
Ravel Morrison has also been in the news following his early release from
Cardiff City. A club statement by Cardiff on Monday said "Due to personal
circumstances, Cardiff City have allowed Ravel Morrison compassionate leave
and permission to train in more familiar surroundings at this time with his
parent Club, West Ham United."
Morrison made just one start, six sub appearances and scored no goals for
the Bluebirds during his loan.
The Cardiff statement has encouraged a flurry of newspaper articles and
social media comments claiming West Ham want to sell him, terminate his
contract or buy him out of his contract. On Sunday he posted a picture of
himself in West Ham training kit in a gym. Other unsubstantiated claims say
he has been banned from Chadwell Heath training ground. It does appear that
Ravel Morrison is training with the Development squad in an effort to regain
fitness however whether he is actually forbidden from entering Chadwell
Heath training ground remains unclear. As for terminating his contract
early, I fail to see what grounds West Ham could rely on. He faces serious
criminal charges on 26th January next year and if found guilty that might
give grounds for the club to cancel his £15,000 per week contract without
penalty if they so wished.
West Ham could also buy him out of his remaining contract at the cost of
around of 75% of his remaining wages but that seems highly unlikely before
the end of January. His sale in the January transfer window for anything
more than a nominal also seems unlikely, I can't imagine too many clubs
willing to take a risk before his court case is resolved coupled with the
fact he will be available on a free transfer in the summer when his contract
expires. Our last and probably most credible option is to loan him out for
the remainder of his contract assuming his court case is concluded by
transfer deadline day on 31st December.
Morrison signed for West Ham in January 2012, originally Manchester United
wanted £3m but a deal was concluded for £600k up front and £25k per first
team appearance up to a maximum of £1m. After making 18 appearances in a
West Ham shirt that was fulfilled so Manchester United pocketed £1m. His
wages over his 3 and a half year contract amount to £2.73m but he spent one
and half years out on loan bringing our exposure down to around £1.5m
One thing I can almost guarantee is his days at our club are numbered and he
will not be offered a new contract. It appears Sir Alex Ferguson was right
all along and our £2m + gamble never paid off. You win some you lose some.
Time to move on from what could have been!
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Sam Allardyce says Ravel Morrison's West Ham future unclear after Cardiff
cut short loan deal
Dec 18, 2014 19:52 By Paul Gorst
The England Under-21 midfielder moved to the Bluebirds earlier in the season
but re-joined his parent club after the switch failed to work out in Wales
The Mirror
West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce has hinted that Ravel Morrison's time
at the club could be over after the midfielder's loan spell with Cardiff was
cut short. The ex-Manchester United youngster joined the Bluesbirds earlier
in the season and was due to stay until Boxing Day. However, his stay was
ended prematurely with Cardiff citing "compassionate leave" for the move,
and Allardyce has said that Morrison will remain down the pecking order in
his high-flying squad. The Hammers are up to fourth in the Premier League,
and Morrison will stay on the fringes, according to Allardyce. "It's
difficult to say [if he'll feature against Leicester] because obviously it
hasn't worked at Cardiff," Allardyce told talkSPORT. "With me having such a
big squad this season I felt it better for him to try to go and get some
football and see how it goes but it hasn't worked that well and he's back
here with us now. "That's before his loan expires at Cardiff so we'll have
to look at the situation over the New Year but my focus isn't on Ravel, it's
on my first-team squad continuing the great run of form they're on at the
moment."
Morrison made just seven appearances for the Championship side, and their
statement read: "Due to personal circumstances, Cardiff City have allowed
Ravel Morrison compassionate leave and permission to train in more familiar
surroundings at this time with his parent club, West Ham United."
Morrison joined West Ham for around £650,000 in 2012 but has since spent
loan spells with Birmingham and Queens Park Rangers.
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Diafra Sakho does not need new West Ham contract, says manager Sam Allardyce
Dec 18, 2014 13:12 By Neil McLeman
The former Metz striker has proven to be a hit signing at Upton Park and has
already scooped a Premier League player of the month award on top of seven
goals
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has told Diafra Sakho that the Senegal striker does not need a
new contract because he signed a four-deal in the summer.
The £3.5m signing from Metz has been one of the stars of West Ham's great
start to the season after scoring seven goals in his first ten games. Sakho
was pictured on social media yesterday in talks with Hammers co-chairman
David Sullivan. A new deal is set to be triggered after the 24-year-old
makes 25 appearances. But Allardyce, who side host Leicester on Saturday,
said: "He doesn't have to have a new contract because he has a four-year
contract anyway. "If he is going to get one, it will be out of the fact that
the chairman and ourselves think that we are going to re-adjust the contract
he has now. "I would think that the chairman would probably discuss that
situation when Christmas is finished. I don't see why we should be
discussing any contracts with anyone really too much in this period when we
are playing so many games in such a short period of time. "But yet again
players don't see it that way do they? If they think it is time for them
they don't give a monkeys about anyone else. They just get on with their own
thing. "They won't worry about the fact that we have got so many games and
we have got to organise this and that. But I am sure that will be discussed
if and when the chairman is ready and whenever the outcome is, he will tell
everybody." Allardyce said he was "comfortable" about the lack of talks
about his own contract which is up at the end of the season. "It was the
same the last time after we got promoted and it didn't happen until April or
May," he said.
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Sam's outburst lets Sakho cat out of bag
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 18, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Poor old Sam got a bit hot under the collar earlier today when spitting
chips in the direction of Diafra Sakho and the West Ham boardroom – which of
course is situated in David Sullivan's des res. That of course is where the
player turned up earlier this week sparking more speculation of a new
contract – a story we published exclusively back in October when explaining
it would kick in after 25 games and that DS was keen to offer a " reward for
excellence." If anyone doubted the story, Sam kindly all but confirmed it
in his little outburst today when after snapping that the player didn't need
a new deal added: "Players don't see it that way do they?"
If they think it is time for them they don't give a monkeys about anyone
else. They just get on with their own thing." Coming from the man who has
become elevated to the world's 13th best paid manager some might find that a
tad ironic but Sam wasn't done. As the manager I don't think he would become
so animated on the subject if he knew it not to be true so rest assured
Diafra is getting his deal!
He added: ""If he is going to get one ( a new contract), it will be out of
the fact that the chairman and ourselves think that we are going to
re-adjust the contract he has now." The big question then is when. It's not
going to be over the festive period, nor whilst he's away at the African Cup
of Nations. The 25th game is likely to be against Burnley on May 2 should
for example Senegal go all the way at Afcon. Sam's suggestion, whilst
talking about the issue, that players don't give a monkey's, seems a bit
unfair given that this is all David Sullivan's idea anyway and in
ClaretandHigh's opinion exactly the right one to make.. However, on this
occasion we're delighted that Sam has decided to give it large on the issue
for now even the doubters will know that the player is going to get
something close to what he's worth.
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Irons set up "excellence" contract policy
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 18, 2014 in Whispers
Calret & Hugh
West Ham's squad – with the exception of Diafra Sakho – will have all
contracts reviewed at the end of the season as the club sets up a "pursuit
of excellence" last half of the campaign! The club's bosses have clamped
down on talks of deals and extensions as they bid to incentivise a squad
which is aiming high. Sakho's well-publicised deal is set to kick in after
25 games – as per the original agreement on signing – but with the team
doing so well, the Irons bosses see an ideal opportunity to pile the
pressure on the players to show their best. ClaretandHugh was told today of
the club's policy as it bids to get the very best from every single
individual in the squad. Oursource said: "The club want to incentivise every
one of them to really put in a shift to earn improved deals so there should
be no talk of contracts being signed at the moment. He added: "Mark Noble's
new deal is due and that will be high on the agenda but like all the players
he will be told to go and show everybody what's he's worth."
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Thursday, December 18
Daily WHUFC News - 18th December 2014
Noble targets successful Christmas
WHUFC.com
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble is looking to overcome his Achilles injury in time for Christmas
16.12.2014
Mark Noble is looking forward to the hectic Christmas football programme. With Saturday's visit of Leicester City kicking off a vital period of five games in 18 days, Noble knows this spell could go a long way to shaping the Hammers' season. West Ham United have taken 28 points from their opening 16 Barclays Premier League fixtures, propelling them into the top four and giving them hopes of a lofty finish.
But Noble is keen to take it game-by-game, starting with Saturday's Boleyn Ground clash with Leicester, who are without a win in their last eleven. Speaking as the Hammers paid a Christmas visit to Richard House Children's Hospice in Beckton, Noble said he hoped to be back from an Achilles injury soon.
Mark, you're a patron of Richard House. You must be honoured?
MN: "Yes. I have been a patron of Richard House for a few years now. I lived in Beckton for many years myself so to come back every year as I do, give some presents out and see the kids is an honour for me."
How important is it that the Club does this?
MN: "To look after local places like this, and support the phenomenal job the carers and staff do needs to be honoured and I'm glad that we do in this way."
Looking at Saturday's game against Leicester, what are your hopes for the boys?
MN: "Another three points. We want to keep striving to be better. Obviously I'm just getting over a little injury myself, so whether I get back for Leicester or not I don't know yet. I'm hopeful we can get another set of points on the board."
It's a busy time over Christmas. Do you look forward to it?
MN: "I enjoy the Christmas time. Obviously it's hard sometimes when everyone's really enjoying themselves and eating what they want! But there are pros and cons and we're honoured to go out there. We're going to need to use the squad and hopefully pick up points over the Christmas period."
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Hammers host Bobby book launch
WHUFC.com
Bobby Moore's former team-mates returned to launch a new book recalling their careers together
17.12.2014
More than 25 West Ham United favourites of years gone by returned to the Boleyn Ground to celebrate the career of the great Bobby Moore.
Moore's long-time defensive partner and friend Ken Brown, fellow 1966 FIFA World Cup hero Martin Peters, 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup winner Brian Dear, 1964 FA Cup winners Peter Brabrook and Eddie Bovington and many more were back in east London for the launch of a new book chronicling the Hammers career of Moore.
Author Tim Crane has spoken to more than 60 of the 89 players who lined up alongside the legendary captain during his 17 seasons in the West Ham starting XI, compiling a unique book entitled 'They Play With Bobby Moore - The West Ham Years'.
Crane, who also edits the popular Ex-Hammers magazine, was honoured to be joined at the launch by so many of the players he revered as a youngster. "It's been quite an adventure," he confirmed. "It has taken me 18 months to track them all down. I knew they were out there somewhere, but they were spread across four continents. Sixty-three of them are still with us. Sadly we have lost a few but I spoke to the families of the deceased Hammers, and those interviews are just as important. "I have been into every attic and every shoebox and suitcase and found glories and riches above any West Ham supporter's imagination. I'm really pleased that I've been able to showcase all that in this book for supporters of West Ham. "It was a labour of love, but it's not about me. It's very important that these memories are preserved for future generations. There are so many rich, funny, emotional and sad stories in this book that it would be a travesty if they went to the grave. They haven't, so they are out there for everyone to enjoy them."
Brown was Moore's partner when the 17-year-old made his debut against Manchester United in September 1958, before going on to play 274 more times alongside the great defender. "I'll never forget my time with him because he was superb," said Brown, now 80. "You can't describe how perfect he was. I lost count of the number of times I went around the back thinking he was going to miss the ball, but he never did! He was an unbelievable player who got better and better with each game. "It's terrific meeting everybody again! It's tremendous and always nice to come back here."
For winger Brabrook, spending time in the company of so many of his old friends and colleagues, reminiscing about old times, was a fitting way to launch a book with such illustrious subject matter. "It was a fantastic time and I think we all enjoyed it, as I certainly did. There are quite a few I haven't seen for years, and some I didn't know at all because they joined after I had left, but it's great to see them all. "It is great to hold such an event for Bobby and I hope he is up there looking down and knows we are having a go at trying to support all that he believed in. I have fantastic memories. You are going back a long while but they are great memories of things we won, things we got close to winning and a decent side as well."
*To purchase a copy of 'They Play With Bobby Moore - The West Ham Years', please visit www.bobbymoore89.co.uk.
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Song pays tribute to 'The King' Henry
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Alex Song has paid tribute to retiring former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry
17.12.2014
Alex Song has paid tribute to 'The King' Thierry Henry following the retirement of the former Arsenal and France forward. The West Ham United midfielder was a promising teenager when he played alongside Henry for two seasons in north London and admits he learnt a huge amount about the game from the great No14. Song followed in the 37-year-old's footsteps by joining Spanish giants Barcelona before linking up with the Hammers on loan in the summer, and paid tribute to the influence Henry has had on his own career. "For me, I call him 'The King' because he was unbelievable," Song confirmed. "He was an amazing player and a great man. I know him from when I came to Arsenal when I was 17 and I learned a lot from him. "Now, when I see him, he says 'You have to do this' and you need someone like this who is a big champion and gives you advice. He helps the young players and today we miss a very big man and a very big player. "We know what he achieved in England and all over the world people know his face. They know what he did for football, which was good. "At the end of the day, he has retired, so I would like to say thank you to him for everything. I learned a lot from him and he will always be a good friend. I am happy for him and I want to say to him 'All the best for the future'."
Henry played against West Ham nine times during his eight seasons with Arsenal, scoring five goals. His time with the Gunners included 226 goals in 369 appearances, two Premier League titles and three FA Cups, while he also won two La Liga titles, the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona.
At international level, he netted 51 goals in 123 games for France, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000. "He should be remembered as one of the all-time greats, not just in the Premier League but in football," Song continued. "He achieved a lot of things. He was an amazing player and everyone knows him. "If you want to see one of the best strikers in the history of the English league, then you have Thierry. "He is The King because he achieved a lot of things and every young player wants to be like him and achieve what he did in the past, because it's very important."
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Maiga Suspended
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Modibo Maiga has been suspended by Metz for walking out on his team ahead of their trip to Marseille earlier this month. KUMB revealed how Maiga threw a tantrum after being told he was being dropped by coach Albert Cartier for the away trip to Ligue 1 leaders Marseille, which led to him missing the trip. Metz went on to lose the game 3-1, and although Cartier and the on-loan striker were said to have cleared the air, it has been revealed that Maiga has been hit with a 48-hour suspension.
A statement released by Metz said: "Modibo Maiga did not appear at the airport on the day of travel to Marseille. He was punished with a two-day suspension by the club's disciplinary committee. "In accordance with the provisions of the ban he will therefore be able to return to training on Friday 19 December."
Signed by Sam Allardyce in July 2012 on a four-year contract (with an option for an additional two years), the £5million striker failed to settle in England and made just 19 starts for the Hammers during his stay at the club. Maiga's tally of just six goals for West Ham consisted of three in the early rounds of the Carling/Capital One Cup and three more in the Premier League - against Southampton (October 2012), Chelsea (December 2012) and against West Brom (December 2013). However it will be for his winning goal at White Hart Lane in the 2-1 Capital Cup win over Tottenham last season for which he is most fondly remembered by West Ham fans.
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Gold denies 'sack Sam' rumours
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has denied reports that West Ham are preparing to part company with Sam Allardyce at the end of the season. The manager's contract expires this summer and on several occasions he has reiterated that no talks will take place until the end of the season - as was the case back in 2013.
It is a position that is shared by the board. However that didn't prevent one particular tabloid claiming last night that West Ham were already preparing to part company with Big Sam and his coaching team, who the article claimed "are certain the axe is coming for them".
Most supporters responding on the KUMB Forum agreed that the report should be treated with a certain degree of caution; the lack of any genuine source helping to add to the air of suspicion.
And this morning co-owner David Gold confirmed that fans were right to treat the story with scepticism when he referred to it as "pure speculation", having been pressed to respond by a supporter on Twitter.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@prideofeastldn: The Daily Star reports that Allardyce won't be offered a new contract? dg true or not?
This is pure speculation. dg
Allardyce joined West Ham in May 2011 on a two-year contract, having rejected the opportunity to work in Abu Dhabi. That contract was extended by a further two years in May 2013.
Gold, speaking at the time said: "Sam has made a hugely positive impact since joining the club nearly two years ago. We chose to recruit Sam as we knew he would bring discipline, determination, passion and respect to Chadwell Heath - and he has delivered on all fronts."
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On Goals on Sunday... Sam Allardyce joins Ben and Kammy
Last Updated: 17/12/14 5:49pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce will be in the Goals on Sunday studio this week to look through Saturday's goals and reflect on West Ham's season so far.
Allardyce heads towards the winter period with his West Ham side in superb form, surprising even their most optimistic supporters after a difficult campaign last term. Allardyce will be talking to Ben and Kammy on the sofa the day after the Hammers face Leicester at Upton Park looking to extend their run of just one defeat in 10 games, which has seen them rise to fourth in the Premier League table. West Ham then travel to Chelsea on Boxing Day before hosting Arsenal two days later, then face West Brom on New Year's Day at Upton Park. Ben and Kammy will also be looking at Manchester United's trip to Aston Villa, Manchester City v Crystal Palace and Tottenham v Burnley, as well as the three other Premier league games and what is making the back pages on Sunday.
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SAM CONTRACT POPPYCOCK
By Sean Whetstone 17 Dec 2014 at 19:07
West Ham till I Die
Poppycock, nonsense, hogwash, balderdash, baloney, piffle and twaddle are words that could all be used to describe the Daily Star's headline this morning claiming a world Exclusive that "West Ham still planning to part with Big Sam despite player support"
The article claims that there remains no plans to offer Allardyce a new deal despite the big improvement he has overseen members of his coaching team are certain the axe is coming for them and Allardyce at the end of the season.
I am sorry but David Sullivan and David Gold have constantly said they will review the position of their manager towards the end of the season and the decision will based on whether to offer him a new contract over 38 games rather than the first sixteen. They are also assuming Sam Allardyce wants to stay at the club at end of his contract, maybe he has other thoughts or ambitions on his mind, maybe even retirement or a break from football.
The other factor will be the length of new contract and the amount it might take to secure his managerial services for another three or five years. Sam Allardyce is represented by agent Mark Curtis. you can be certain Mr Curtis will be looking at an improved offer his client on a long term contract.
In 2013 its was claimed that Allardyce is bringing home a wage of just under £3million at West Ham placing him at No.13 in the world in terms of the highest-earning football managers, as revealed in a study by Brazilian sports economics firm Pluri Consultoria.
I wouldn't usually mention a Daily Star story but several non West Ham friends of mine contacted me this morning to say I hear you sacking Sam at the end of the season.
David Gold took to twitter this afternoon to also debunk the story saying "This is pure speculation. dg" OK so maybe not a denial but the truth is he doesn't know yet and they will continue with their strategy of making a decision at the end of the season.
If Sam has a good season over 38 games I am sure the board will have little choice but to reward him with a new multi million pound contract.
Don't believe the hype!
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SUPER SAKHO SIGNS NEW DEAL
By Sean Whetstone 17 Dec 2014 at 13:49
West Ham till I Die
Christmas has come early for Diafra Sakho after he concluded negotiations on a new deal which more than triples his basic weekly wage from £7,500 per week to £25,000.
The inform striker who has scored eight goals in league and cup games was thought to have signed an initial contract of just £15,000 per week with as much of half that amount based on first team appearances. That contract allowed a review after 25 games but after just 9 appearances and two substitute games his review was bought forward to reward the player ahead of the January transfer window. West Ham paid an initial £3.5m pounds to Metz which could eventually rise to a maximum £7m after 140 appearances in a Claret and Blue shirt. Crucially the contract is thought to be devoid of buy out or release clauses.
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Is Ravel Morrison worth taking a risk on?
HITC
Josh McLoughlin
Ravel Morrison returned to West Ham United earlier this week after a disappointing loan spell at Cardiff City and his next move is unknown. Ravel Morrison has had a stop-start career to say the least with plenty of troubles off the pitch shadowing a talented footballer. A strong few games with West Ham United last season saw comparisons made with Paul Gascoigne and at one point he was even tipped to make the England World Cup squad.
That all seems so very far away now and reports suggest that West Ham have had enough and are ready to terminate the 21-year-old's contract. The Hammers signed Morrison from Manchester United in January 2012 for a fee around the £600,000 mark. The boy had obvious potential then and it just had to be handled in the right way. Loan spells at Birmingham City, Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City have followed. Whilst the first two were a success, the latter was not and Bluebirds manager Russell Slade said he had no future at the club.
His best spell came at the beginning of last season, when he scored goals against Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. Speaking of the goal against Spurs, manager Sam Allaryce said, "That's a genius goal for me. You'll struggle to see a better goal than that all season".
Whilst the comparison to 'Gazza' seemed a bit premature, the similarity to a current Liverpool player at the moment is obvious. Mario Balotelli has bags of talent but his problems on and off the pitch have stifled him. It looked as if Liverpool had pulled off the signing of the summer when they brought him in from AC Milan, however now it looks as if it has been a catalyst for a dreadful season so far.
Another comment from Sam Allardyce earlier this season summed up Morrison, and if he is willing to knuckle down and focus on his game then he can become a great player. "It's not that he has to impress me as a footballer, we know about his talent. It's about leading the talent and himself to a disciplined life in general, it's what needs to happen with Rav. If that happens we'd want him here.
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Brighton boss confirms former West Ham man is training with club
HITC
John Verrall
Alou Diarra, who left West Ham United this summer, has been in training with Brighton and Hove Albion as he searches for a new club.
Former West Ham United man Alou Diarra is training with Brighton and Hove Albion having been released by the Hammers this summer.
Diarra failed to make an impression at the Boleyn Ground during his two year stay, where he made just six appearances, but Brighton are set to offer him another chance to impress in English football. The Championship outfit have invited Diarra to train with the rest of the squad, with manager Sami Hyypia keen to add quality to his first-team. "He hasn't got a club at the moment and when I heard that I immediately invited him here," Hyypia is quoted as saying by Eurosport. "I gave him an opportunity to train with us and at the same time we can have a look at how he is. "He has trained with a personal trainer but training on your own is not the same as training with the team. He is with us this week as well and we will see what happens. "We need a midfield player. If he is the one, we shall see."
Hyypia and Diarra already have a relationship having played together at Liverpool back in the early 2000's. Back then Diarra was a powerful presence and Hyypia will be hoping that he has not lost too much of his prior ability despite his age. Brighton are in dire need of an injection of quality having slipped in the Championship's relegation zone and the Frenchman's experience could be crucial in seeing them to safety.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho set for pay rise
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 17 December 2014 Updated: 13:10, 17 December 2014
Diafra Sakho is poised to agree a new improved deal with West Ham, even though he is just four months into the five-year contract he agreed when he joined the club. Sakho, signed from French club Metz for £3.5million in August, has proved to be an outstanding buy, scoring seven goals in his first 10 games for West Ham. Sakho originally signed a £15,000-a-week deal but the new offer, which will kick in after he makes 25 appearances for the club, is worth an extra £10,000 per week plus bonuses to the Senegal international. A happy Sakho posted a picture of himself and David Sullivan at the West Ham co-chairman's house earlier this week, where negotiations took place.
Sullivan was instrumental in the summer move for Sakho when it looked likely that a proposed deal would fall through. Manager Sam Allardyce's No1 target was Sunderland's Connor Wickham but when that deal didn't progress, Sullivan stepped in to seal the deal for Sakho. Meanwhile, long-serving midfielder Mark Noble is also in line for a new deal, with the club ready to take up a two-year option on his current contract and offering him three more years on improved terms. Noble remains a doubt for Saturday's home match against Leicester with an Achilles tendon injury.
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Former Fox Savage: "It has to be the Hammers"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 17, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Leicester City midfielder Rob Savage can't see his old team reverse an historic trend by beating the Hammers at the weekend!
The Match of the Day pundit recalls scoring the Filbert Street winner against us in 2000 and was in the team which defeated us at home two seasons later when Darren Eadie's grabbed the winner – our only defeat by the Foxes at our place since 1966. Sav recalls his Filbert Street goal when he took a pass from Stefan Oakes and slid the winner under Shaka Hislop. East-ender and Irons fan Muzzy Izzet had equalised an early Frederick Kanoute goal as City scored a rare victory over us. Sav sees no repeats this weekend declaring: "City are all over the shop at the back – they just can't defend and I'll take the Hammers to win it 2-0.
Sav recalled the last victory at Upton Park too adding: "I remember the Darren Eadie match as well but it's always been hard work against the Irons. and downhill all the way against you after that as it had been before. "I celebrated mine at Filbert Street vy diving into the crowd – it was a speciasl win over a team we never got much from. I remember you had the likes of Michael Carrick, Frank Lampard and trevor sinclair in the team – it was a bit special. "But you will have too much for the Foxes this time. You are flying and have so much pace and power – I can't see City coping at all."
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Frankie Mac celebrates Sakho deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 17, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers hero Frank Macavennie raised a glass in the Caribbean sun after hearing that Diafra has been offered a signed a new £25k a week West Ham United deal. ClaretandHugh broke the news to the legendary Irons striker who immediately declared: "Fantastic news and that he's been awarded it before it was due tells you everything. "He's the best thing to have happened to the club in years – he's totally changed the dynamic at Upton Park. "What I like about him so much is that he plays for the team – there's no pursuit of personal glory. It's the lads first and as a result all the accolades are coming his way. "That he has signed a new deal is tremendous news. He's great incredible goal instincts – knows where to run and is about as perfect a partner as you could get. "I love Andy Carroll too. That lad can create carnage among defenders and is perfect for a striker like Diafra. The Hammers are amazing to watch and those two can spearhead us into Europe with the Champions League a real possibility. "WHY NOT?"
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Should West Ham really dump Ravel Morrison?
Blowing Bubbles for Metro.co.ukWednesday 17 Dec 2014 1:34 pm
Metro.co.uk
According to the Daily Telegraph, West Ham are set to terminate midfielder Ravel Morrison's contract. If true, this would be sad but not unexpected. Morrison has returned to Upton Park after Cardiff City cut short his loan deal, sending him back to London due to 'personal issues'. Apparently the former Manchester United youngster, who has been training with the Under-21s, has been told he has no future with the Hammers after the board lost patience with the player who has had numerous off-field issues in his career. It's a shame that things have come to this but the player seems intent of wasting his natural talent and a growing number of fans accept it is now time for the club to wash their hands with him. Things have been going so well this season – without Morrison – and it would be foolish to allow him to upset the morale of the squad over the busy Christmas fixture list. Apart from a bright spell this time last year, when he scored a stunning solo goal against Tottenham, the 21-year-old has failed to establish himself in the Premier League and his contribution to the club may well not be worth the baggage. The club turned down a £4million bid from Fulham last January and I'm sure many of the board will regret not taking the cash when it was offered. Morrison was last month cleared of threatening to throw acid in the face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed, but will stand trial at Manchester Crown Court on January 26 on three remaining charges of assault. The African Cup of Nations may well deplete the Hammers squad, but Morrison's own availability at this time will be uncertain and the club will need everyone pulling in the same direction if they are to maintain a push for Europe. It is such a shame that it has come to this. That a player with so much natural talent is effectively throwing his career down the drain. But Sir Alex Ferguson decided he wasn't worth the hassle and it seems West Ham are about to come to the same conclusion
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble is looking to overcome his Achilles injury in time for Christmas
16.12.2014
Mark Noble is looking forward to the hectic Christmas football programme. With Saturday's visit of Leicester City kicking off a vital period of five games in 18 days, Noble knows this spell could go a long way to shaping the Hammers' season. West Ham United have taken 28 points from their opening 16 Barclays Premier League fixtures, propelling them into the top four and giving them hopes of a lofty finish.
But Noble is keen to take it game-by-game, starting with Saturday's Boleyn Ground clash with Leicester, who are without a win in their last eleven. Speaking as the Hammers paid a Christmas visit to Richard House Children's Hospice in Beckton, Noble said he hoped to be back from an Achilles injury soon.
Mark, you're a patron of Richard House. You must be honoured?
MN: "Yes. I have been a patron of Richard House for a few years now. I lived in Beckton for many years myself so to come back every year as I do, give some presents out and see the kids is an honour for me."
How important is it that the Club does this?
MN: "To look after local places like this, and support the phenomenal job the carers and staff do needs to be honoured and I'm glad that we do in this way."
Looking at Saturday's game against Leicester, what are your hopes for the boys?
MN: "Another three points. We want to keep striving to be better. Obviously I'm just getting over a little injury myself, so whether I get back for Leicester or not I don't know yet. I'm hopeful we can get another set of points on the board."
It's a busy time over Christmas. Do you look forward to it?
MN: "I enjoy the Christmas time. Obviously it's hard sometimes when everyone's really enjoying themselves and eating what they want! But there are pros and cons and we're honoured to go out there. We're going to need to use the squad and hopefully pick up points over the Christmas period."
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Hammers host Bobby book launch
WHUFC.com
Bobby Moore's former team-mates returned to launch a new book recalling their careers together
17.12.2014
More than 25 West Ham United favourites of years gone by returned to the Boleyn Ground to celebrate the career of the great Bobby Moore.
Moore's long-time defensive partner and friend Ken Brown, fellow 1966 FIFA World Cup hero Martin Peters, 1965 European Cup Winners' Cup winner Brian Dear, 1964 FA Cup winners Peter Brabrook and Eddie Bovington and many more were back in east London for the launch of a new book chronicling the Hammers career of Moore.
Author Tim Crane has spoken to more than 60 of the 89 players who lined up alongside the legendary captain during his 17 seasons in the West Ham starting XI, compiling a unique book entitled 'They Play With Bobby Moore - The West Ham Years'.
Crane, who also edits the popular Ex-Hammers magazine, was honoured to be joined at the launch by so many of the players he revered as a youngster. "It's been quite an adventure," he confirmed. "It has taken me 18 months to track them all down. I knew they were out there somewhere, but they were spread across four continents. Sixty-three of them are still with us. Sadly we have lost a few but I spoke to the families of the deceased Hammers, and those interviews are just as important. "I have been into every attic and every shoebox and suitcase and found glories and riches above any West Ham supporter's imagination. I'm really pleased that I've been able to showcase all that in this book for supporters of West Ham. "It was a labour of love, but it's not about me. It's very important that these memories are preserved for future generations. There are so many rich, funny, emotional and sad stories in this book that it would be a travesty if they went to the grave. They haven't, so they are out there for everyone to enjoy them."
Brown was Moore's partner when the 17-year-old made his debut against Manchester United in September 1958, before going on to play 274 more times alongside the great defender. "I'll never forget my time with him because he was superb," said Brown, now 80. "You can't describe how perfect he was. I lost count of the number of times I went around the back thinking he was going to miss the ball, but he never did! He was an unbelievable player who got better and better with each game. "It's terrific meeting everybody again! It's tremendous and always nice to come back here."
For winger Brabrook, spending time in the company of so many of his old friends and colleagues, reminiscing about old times, was a fitting way to launch a book with such illustrious subject matter. "It was a fantastic time and I think we all enjoyed it, as I certainly did. There are quite a few I haven't seen for years, and some I didn't know at all because they joined after I had left, but it's great to see them all. "It is great to hold such an event for Bobby and I hope he is up there looking down and knows we are having a go at trying to support all that he believed in. I have fantastic memories. You are going back a long while but they are great memories of things we won, things we got close to winning and a decent side as well."
*To purchase a copy of 'They Play With Bobby Moore - The West Ham Years', please visit www.bobbymoore89.co.uk.
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Song pays tribute to 'The King' Henry
WHUFC.com
West Ham United's Alex Song has paid tribute to retiring former Arsenal team-mate Thierry Henry
17.12.2014
Alex Song has paid tribute to 'The King' Thierry Henry following the retirement of the former Arsenal and France forward. The West Ham United midfielder was a promising teenager when he played alongside Henry for two seasons in north London and admits he learnt a huge amount about the game from the great No14. Song followed in the 37-year-old's footsteps by joining Spanish giants Barcelona before linking up with the Hammers on loan in the summer, and paid tribute to the influence Henry has had on his own career. "For me, I call him 'The King' because he was unbelievable," Song confirmed. "He was an amazing player and a great man. I know him from when I came to Arsenal when I was 17 and I learned a lot from him. "Now, when I see him, he says 'You have to do this' and you need someone like this who is a big champion and gives you advice. He helps the young players and today we miss a very big man and a very big player. "We know what he achieved in England and all over the world people know his face. They know what he did for football, which was good. "At the end of the day, he has retired, so I would like to say thank you to him for everything. I learned a lot from him and he will always be a good friend. I am happy for him and I want to say to him 'All the best for the future'."
Henry played against West Ham nine times during his eight seasons with Arsenal, scoring five goals. His time with the Gunners included 226 goals in 369 appearances, two Premier League titles and three FA Cups, while he also won two La Liga titles, the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona.
At international level, he netted 51 goals in 123 games for France, winning the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000. "He should be remembered as one of the all-time greats, not just in the Premier League but in football," Song continued. "He achieved a lot of things. He was an amazing player and everyone knows him. "If you want to see one of the best strikers in the history of the English league, then you have Thierry. "He is The King because he achieved a lot of things and every young player wants to be like him and achieve what he did in the past, because it's very important."
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Maiga Suspended
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Modibo Maiga has been suspended by Metz for walking out on his team ahead of their trip to Marseille earlier this month. KUMB revealed how Maiga threw a tantrum after being told he was being dropped by coach Albert Cartier for the away trip to Ligue 1 leaders Marseille, which led to him missing the trip. Metz went on to lose the game 3-1, and although Cartier and the on-loan striker were said to have cleared the air, it has been revealed that Maiga has been hit with a 48-hour suspension.
A statement released by Metz said: "Modibo Maiga did not appear at the airport on the day of travel to Marseille. He was punished with a two-day suspension by the club's disciplinary committee. "In accordance with the provisions of the ban he will therefore be able to return to training on Friday 19 December."
Signed by Sam Allardyce in July 2012 on a four-year contract (with an option for an additional two years), the £5million striker failed to settle in England and made just 19 starts for the Hammers during his stay at the club. Maiga's tally of just six goals for West Ham consisted of three in the early rounds of the Carling/Capital One Cup and three more in the Premier League - against Southampton (October 2012), Chelsea (December 2012) and against West Brom (December 2013). However it will be for his winning goal at White Hart Lane in the 2-1 Capital Cup win over Tottenham last season for which he is most fondly remembered by West Ham fans.
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Gold denies 'sack Sam' rumours
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 17th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
David Gold has denied reports that West Ham are preparing to part company with Sam Allardyce at the end of the season. The manager's contract expires this summer and on several occasions he has reiterated that no talks will take place until the end of the season - as was the case back in 2013.
It is a position that is shared by the board. However that didn't prevent one particular tabloid claiming last night that West Ham were already preparing to part company with Big Sam and his coaching team, who the article claimed "are certain the axe is coming for them".
Most supporters responding on the KUMB Forum agreed that the report should be treated with a certain degree of caution; the lack of any genuine source helping to add to the air of suspicion.
And this morning co-owner David Gold confirmed that fans were right to treat the story with scepticism when he referred to it as "pure speculation", having been pressed to respond by a supporter on Twitter.
David Gold ✔ @davidgold
"@prideofeastldn: The Daily Star reports that Allardyce won't be offered a new contract? dg true or not?
This is pure speculation. dg
Allardyce joined West Ham in May 2011 on a two-year contract, having rejected the opportunity to work in Abu Dhabi. That contract was extended by a further two years in May 2013.
Gold, speaking at the time said: "Sam has made a hugely positive impact since joining the club nearly two years ago. We chose to recruit Sam as we knew he would bring discipline, determination, passion and respect to Chadwell Heath - and he has delivered on all fronts."
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On Goals on Sunday... Sam Allardyce joins Ben and Kammy
Last Updated: 17/12/14 5:49pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce will be in the Goals on Sunday studio this week to look through Saturday's goals and reflect on West Ham's season so far.
Allardyce heads towards the winter period with his West Ham side in superb form, surprising even their most optimistic supporters after a difficult campaign last term. Allardyce will be talking to Ben and Kammy on the sofa the day after the Hammers face Leicester at Upton Park looking to extend their run of just one defeat in 10 games, which has seen them rise to fourth in the Premier League table. West Ham then travel to Chelsea on Boxing Day before hosting Arsenal two days later, then face West Brom on New Year's Day at Upton Park. Ben and Kammy will also be looking at Manchester United's trip to Aston Villa, Manchester City v Crystal Palace and Tottenham v Burnley, as well as the three other Premier league games and what is making the back pages on Sunday.
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SAM CONTRACT POPPYCOCK
By Sean Whetstone 17 Dec 2014 at 19:07
West Ham till I Die
Poppycock, nonsense, hogwash, balderdash, baloney, piffle and twaddle are words that could all be used to describe the Daily Star's headline this morning claiming a world Exclusive that "West Ham still planning to part with Big Sam despite player support"
The article claims that there remains no plans to offer Allardyce a new deal despite the big improvement he has overseen members of his coaching team are certain the axe is coming for them and Allardyce at the end of the season.
I am sorry but David Sullivan and David Gold have constantly said they will review the position of their manager towards the end of the season and the decision will based on whether to offer him a new contract over 38 games rather than the first sixteen. They are also assuming Sam Allardyce wants to stay at the club at end of his contract, maybe he has other thoughts or ambitions on his mind, maybe even retirement or a break from football.
The other factor will be the length of new contract and the amount it might take to secure his managerial services for another three or five years. Sam Allardyce is represented by agent Mark Curtis. you can be certain Mr Curtis will be looking at an improved offer his client on a long term contract.
In 2013 its was claimed that Allardyce is bringing home a wage of just under £3million at West Ham placing him at No.13 in the world in terms of the highest-earning football managers, as revealed in a study by Brazilian sports economics firm Pluri Consultoria.
I wouldn't usually mention a Daily Star story but several non West Ham friends of mine contacted me this morning to say I hear you sacking Sam at the end of the season.
David Gold took to twitter this afternoon to also debunk the story saying "This is pure speculation. dg" OK so maybe not a denial but the truth is he doesn't know yet and they will continue with their strategy of making a decision at the end of the season.
If Sam has a good season over 38 games I am sure the board will have little choice but to reward him with a new multi million pound contract.
Don't believe the hype!
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SUPER SAKHO SIGNS NEW DEAL
By Sean Whetstone 17 Dec 2014 at 13:49
West Ham till I Die
Christmas has come early for Diafra Sakho after he concluded negotiations on a new deal which more than triples his basic weekly wage from £7,500 per week to £25,000.
The inform striker who has scored eight goals in league and cup games was thought to have signed an initial contract of just £15,000 per week with as much of half that amount based on first team appearances. That contract allowed a review after 25 games but after just 9 appearances and two substitute games his review was bought forward to reward the player ahead of the January transfer window. West Ham paid an initial £3.5m pounds to Metz which could eventually rise to a maximum £7m after 140 appearances in a Claret and Blue shirt. Crucially the contract is thought to be devoid of buy out or release clauses.
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Is Ravel Morrison worth taking a risk on?
HITC
Josh McLoughlin
Ravel Morrison returned to West Ham United earlier this week after a disappointing loan spell at Cardiff City and his next move is unknown. Ravel Morrison has had a stop-start career to say the least with plenty of troubles off the pitch shadowing a talented footballer. A strong few games with West Ham United last season saw comparisons made with Paul Gascoigne and at one point he was even tipped to make the England World Cup squad.
That all seems so very far away now and reports suggest that West Ham have had enough and are ready to terminate the 21-year-old's contract. The Hammers signed Morrison from Manchester United in January 2012 for a fee around the £600,000 mark. The boy had obvious potential then and it just had to be handled in the right way. Loan spells at Birmingham City, Queens Park Rangers and Cardiff City have followed. Whilst the first two were a success, the latter was not and Bluebirds manager Russell Slade said he had no future at the club.
His best spell came at the beginning of last season, when he scored goals against Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. Speaking of the goal against Spurs, manager Sam Allaryce said, "That's a genius goal for me. You'll struggle to see a better goal than that all season".
Whilst the comparison to 'Gazza' seemed a bit premature, the similarity to a current Liverpool player at the moment is obvious. Mario Balotelli has bags of talent but his problems on and off the pitch have stifled him. It looked as if Liverpool had pulled off the signing of the summer when they brought him in from AC Milan, however now it looks as if it has been a catalyst for a dreadful season so far.
Another comment from Sam Allardyce earlier this season summed up Morrison, and if he is willing to knuckle down and focus on his game then he can become a great player. "It's not that he has to impress me as a footballer, we know about his talent. It's about leading the talent and himself to a disciplined life in general, it's what needs to happen with Rav. If that happens we'd want him here.
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Brighton boss confirms former West Ham man is training with club
HITC
John Verrall
Alou Diarra, who left West Ham United this summer, has been in training with Brighton and Hove Albion as he searches for a new club.
Former West Ham United man Alou Diarra is training with Brighton and Hove Albion having been released by the Hammers this summer.
Diarra failed to make an impression at the Boleyn Ground during his two year stay, where he made just six appearances, but Brighton are set to offer him another chance to impress in English football. The Championship outfit have invited Diarra to train with the rest of the squad, with manager Sami Hyypia keen to add quality to his first-team. "He hasn't got a club at the moment and when I heard that I immediately invited him here," Hyypia is quoted as saying by Eurosport. "I gave him an opportunity to train with us and at the same time we can have a look at how he is. "He has trained with a personal trainer but training on your own is not the same as training with the team. He is with us this week as well and we will see what happens. "We need a midfield player. If he is the one, we shall see."
Hyypia and Diarra already have a relationship having played together at Liverpool back in the early 2000's. Back then Diarra was a powerful presence and Hyypia will be hoping that he has not lost too much of his prior ability despite his age. Brighton are in dire need of an injection of quality having slipped in the Championship's relegation zone and the Frenchman's experience could be crucial in seeing them to safety.
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho set for pay rise
Evening Standard
KEN DYER
Published: 17 December 2014 Updated: 13:10, 17 December 2014
Diafra Sakho is poised to agree a new improved deal with West Ham, even though he is just four months into the five-year contract he agreed when he joined the club. Sakho, signed from French club Metz for £3.5million in August, has proved to be an outstanding buy, scoring seven goals in his first 10 games for West Ham. Sakho originally signed a £15,000-a-week deal but the new offer, which will kick in after he makes 25 appearances for the club, is worth an extra £10,000 per week plus bonuses to the Senegal international. A happy Sakho posted a picture of himself and David Sullivan at the West Ham co-chairman's house earlier this week, where negotiations took place.
Sullivan was instrumental in the summer move for Sakho when it looked likely that a proposed deal would fall through. Manager Sam Allardyce's No1 target was Sunderland's Connor Wickham but when that deal didn't progress, Sullivan stepped in to seal the deal for Sakho. Meanwhile, long-serving midfielder Mark Noble is also in line for a new deal, with the club ready to take up a two-year option on his current contract and offering him three more years on improved terms. Noble remains a doubt for Saturday's home match against Leicester with an Achilles tendon injury.
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Former Fox Savage: "It has to be the Hammers"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 17, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Leicester City midfielder Rob Savage can't see his old team reverse an historic trend by beating the Hammers at the weekend!
The Match of the Day pundit recalls scoring the Filbert Street winner against us in 2000 and was in the team which defeated us at home two seasons later when Darren Eadie's grabbed the winner – our only defeat by the Foxes at our place since 1966. Sav recalls his Filbert Street goal when he took a pass from Stefan Oakes and slid the winner under Shaka Hislop. East-ender and Irons fan Muzzy Izzet had equalised an early Frederick Kanoute goal as City scored a rare victory over us. Sav sees no repeats this weekend declaring: "City are all over the shop at the back – they just can't defend and I'll take the Hammers to win it 2-0.
Sav recalled the last victory at Upton Park too adding: "I remember the Darren Eadie match as well but it's always been hard work against the Irons. and downhill all the way against you after that as it had been before. "I celebrated mine at Filbert Street vy diving into the crowd – it was a speciasl win over a team we never got much from. I remember you had the likes of Michael Carrick, Frank Lampard and trevor sinclair in the team – it was a bit special. "But you will have too much for the Foxes this time. You are flying and have so much pace and power – I can't see City coping at all."
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Frankie Mac celebrates Sakho deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 17, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Hammers hero Frank Macavennie raised a glass in the Caribbean sun after hearing that Diafra has been offered a signed a new £25k a week West Ham United deal. ClaretandHugh broke the news to the legendary Irons striker who immediately declared: "Fantastic news and that he's been awarded it before it was due tells you everything. "He's the best thing to have happened to the club in years – he's totally changed the dynamic at Upton Park. "What I like about him so much is that he plays for the team – there's no pursuit of personal glory. It's the lads first and as a result all the accolades are coming his way. "That he has signed a new deal is tremendous news. He's great incredible goal instincts – knows where to run and is about as perfect a partner as you could get. "I love Andy Carroll too. That lad can create carnage among defenders and is perfect for a striker like Diafra. The Hammers are amazing to watch and those two can spearhead us into Europe with the Champions League a real possibility. "WHY NOT?"
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Should West Ham really dump Ravel Morrison?
Blowing Bubbles for Metro.co.ukWednesday 17 Dec 2014 1:34 pm
Metro.co.uk
According to the Daily Telegraph, West Ham are set to terminate midfielder Ravel Morrison's contract. If true, this would be sad but not unexpected. Morrison has returned to Upton Park after Cardiff City cut short his loan deal, sending him back to London due to 'personal issues'. Apparently the former Manchester United youngster, who has been training with the Under-21s, has been told he has no future with the Hammers after the board lost patience with the player who has had numerous off-field issues in his career. It's a shame that things have come to this but the player seems intent of wasting his natural talent and a growing number of fans accept it is now time for the club to wash their hands with him. Things have been going so well this season – without Morrison – and it would be foolish to allow him to upset the morale of the squad over the busy Christmas fixture list. Apart from a bright spell this time last year, when he scored a stunning solo goal against Tottenham, the 21-year-old has failed to establish himself in the Premier League and his contribution to the club may well not be worth the baggage. The club turned down a £4million bid from Fulham last January and I'm sure many of the board will regret not taking the cash when it was offered. Morrison was last month cleared of threatening to throw acid in the face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed, but will stand trial at Manchester Crown Court on January 26 on three remaining charges of assault. The African Cup of Nations may well deplete the Hammers squad, but Morrison's own availability at this time will be uncertain and the club will need everyone pulling in the same direction if they are to maintain a push for Europe. It is such a shame that it has come to this. That a player with so much natural talent is effectively throwing his career down the drain. But Sir Alex Ferguson decided he wasn't worth the hassle and it seems West Ham are about to come to the same conclusion
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Wednesday, December 17
Daily WHUFC News - 17th December 2014
Carroll relishing festive football
WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll is gearing up for the festive football after his latest 90
minutes at Sunderland
15.12.2014
While the festive season tends to be a testing one for most in the Barclays
Premier League, Andy Carroll is relishing the prospect of a flurry of
football. Following ankle surgery in the summer, the England international
missed the first three months of the season, but has now started each of
West Ham United's last five league outings. With lost time to make up, the
25-year-old reckons he is still in the equivalent of a traditional
pre-season and so is looking forward to getting stuck into a hectic
Christmas and New Year schedule. Speaking after his latest 90 minutes in
Saturday's 1-1 draw at Sunderland, Carroll said: "It feels great for me.
It's very important for me to come back from injury and stay injury free.
All the work I'm doing with the medical staff and the treatment team is
keeping me toned and fully fit, so it's obviously great for me to get
another 90 minutes. "Even though I haven't been playing games at the start
of the season, I've still been working very, very hard getting myself fit.
It's probably even more strenuous and harder work being injured and working
yourself back up than it is playing. "It's like my pre-season now, just
coming back. It's my first few games, so I'm raring to go. I'm still feeling
good and feeling fresh."
Reflecting on the weekend's hard-earned point at the Stadium of Light,
Carroll lamented missed opportunities, not least a late side-footed effort
that was a whisker away from bagging the Hammers another away win. He also
went close early on, nodding a pinpoint Stewart Downing cross over the top.
He explained: "It was a fantastic ball from Stewie and I thought I could
have done better with it. I got too much on it and my timing was a little
bit out. It was the first real cross that we got in and had it been another
five minutes into the game, maybe I'd have done better with it. "The one at
the end fell nicely for me and I've side-footed it just past the post. I
thought it was a decent effort, but it wasn't on target. It was a good
strike, but unfortunately it's not got gone in. "It was great to get a point
away from home, but I think we could have had the three and deservedly
should have had the three."
On the back of Saturday's stalemate, Carroll reckons the visit of Leicester
City has now taken on greater significance, with the Hammers targeting
maximum points against the Premier League strugglers. "It'll be another
tough game, every game's a tough game and obviously they're not doing
particularly well at the minute but it's still going to be tough for us," he
continued. "We've got to go out there and try to get the points that we
want. "With the game on Saturday, we felt the next two were winnable games
and six points would have been great for us. We've come up here, it's been a
tough game, got the one, so it's more important now to get the three against
Leicester, which I think we can do."
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Mediawatch - 16 December
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.12.2014
Andy Carroll tells the Mail Online that he is raring to go after completing
another 90 minutes at Sunderland on Saturday.
Sam Allardyce is quoted in the Evening Standard as saying his team are
making life easy for him this season.
According to the Mirror, Alex Song has given the Club fresh hope that they
would be able to sign him on a permanent basis.
BBC Sport confirm that Ravel Morrison has been granted compassionate leave
by Cardiff City to train with the Hammers.
Sticking with Morrison, the Mail believe that the Hammers could be peparing
to sell the midfielder in January.
In the same newspaper, West Ham are said to be renewing their interest in
26-year-old Sporting Lisbon striker Islam Slimani.
Meanwhile, the Telegraph include a round-up of possible transfer deadlings
for the Hammers in January.
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On this day - 16 December
WHUFc.com
Elliot Lee turns 20 today while the Hammers also enjoyed home success on
this day in 1972
16.12.2014
Anniversary
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee celebrates his 20th birthday today. The
forward was born on this day in Durham in 1994. Stocky, powerful and blessed
with a natural finisher's ability, Lee finished the 2011/12 season as the
under-18s leading goal scorer, netting more than 20 times in all
competitions. The son of former West Ham United and England midfielder Rob
Lee, the frontman is a prolific goal-getter. This season he is the
Development Squad's top scorer, having already netted five goals in eight
games.
Classic match
West Ham United 3-2 Stoke City
Division One
16 December 1972
The Hammers recorded only their second win in six games as they earned a
hard fought victory over Stoke City at the Boleyn Ground.
A double from Bryan 'Pop' Robson helped the home side on their way with
Clyde Best also to thank as he netted one of the seven league goals which he
managed during the season. The win moved the Hammers up to seventh place, a
position they would be in and around all season before they eventually ended
up sixth.
Complete record - 16 December
1922 Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-4 West Ham United (Division Two)
1933 Port Vale 0-0 West Ham United (Division Two)
1950 Hull City 1-2 West Ham United (Division Two)
1961 Manchester United 1-2 West Ham United (Division One)
1963 West Ham United 6-0 Workington Town (League Cup)
1967 Sheffield Wednesday 4-1 West Ham United (Division One)
1972 West Ham United 3-2 Stoke City (Division One)
1978 West Ham United 2-0 Charlton Athletic (Division Two)
1989 West Ham United 0-2 Oldham Athletic (Division Two)
1995 West Ham United 2-1 Southampton (Premier League)
1999 West Ham United 2-2 Aston Villa (League Cup)
2000 Everton 1-1 West Ham United (Premier League)
Played 12, Won 6, Drawn, 3, Lost 3, Scored 25, Conceded 15
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New deal for Sakho?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Speculation is rife tonight that Diafra Sakho has been rewarded for his fine
form with a new contract. The Senegal international, who signed for West Ham
back in August spent the afternoon at the home of co-owner David Sullivan
where, it has been claimed, negotiations over a new, improved contract were
had. Either way, it seems the two found some common ground at some point ...
as the image below, posted by Sakho on his Twitter feed this afternoon,
indicates!
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Go now, Ravel!
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are planning to release Ravel Morrison on a free transfer
with immediate effect, according to Matt Law. Law, writing in the Telegraph
tonight claims that the club are seeking to effectively cancel Morrison's
contract six months before it is due to expire, at the end of the current
season. The troubled midfielder returned to West Ham at the weekend 10 days
ahead of his scheduled return from Cardiff, where he had been on loan since
August. During his time with the Bluebirds Morrison made just seven
appearances, without scoring a single goal. Prior to that he featured twice
for West Ham this season, against Sheffield United (defeat on penalties) and
Southampton (a 3-1 defeat). Law adds that West Ham will argue Morrison's
numerous off-field issues - combined with a poor disciplinary record whilst
on club duty - allows the club to refrain from paying off his contract in
full - a sum in the region of £400,000.
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West Ham take half of FA Cup allocation
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have requested 3,000 tickets for the FA Cup tie at Everton on
Tuesday, 6 January - just 50 per cent of those available.
As a result of the tie being moved from the weekend to a Tuesday night, West
Ham have taken just half of the available allocation for Goodison Park as
opposed to the larger number available to away teams in the FA Cup. FA rules
state that clubs can ask for up to 15 per cent of the stadium's capacity,
which in this case is just over 40,000 - meaning that the Hammers could have
requested up to 6,000 tickets. However the decision to move the tie to a
Tuesday evening for the benefit of the TV audience- a first for an FA Cup
third round tie - means that thousands of West Ham fans who would have
otherwise made the 220 mile trip from east London to Merseyside will not now
be able to attend.
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Allardyce to break Cup hoodoo?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be hoping to win his first ever FA Cup tie since joining
West Ham when he takes his team to Goodison Park next month.
West Ham might be flying high in the Premier League right now but Big Sam
will have to break an unwelcome sequence if he is to help propel West Ham
into the next round of the FA Cup. Back in 2012, in Allardyce's first season
at the Boleyn Ground, West Ham were dumped out of the competition at the
first attempt by Sheffield Wednesday, then a League One club; the only goal
of the game coming from Chris O'Grady two minutes from the end of normal
time. The Hammers fared little better a year later when drawn against
Manchester United. Despite having home advantage, West Ham were denied a
famous victory when Robin Van Persie scored a 90th minute equaliser to send
the game into a replay at Old Trafford, which the hosts won 1-0. And the
less said about last season the better, when a mostly young and
inexperienced West Ham team including the likes of George Moncur (now at
Colchester), Callum Driver (now at non-league Dartford), Alou Diarra
(currently training with Brighton) and Modibo Maiga (on loan at Metz) were
thrashed 5-0 by Championship side Nottingham Forest in front of live TV
cameras.
In fact, the last time Allardyce managed to take a team beyond the third
round of the competition was back in 2009, when his then Blackburn side
reached the fifth round before being beaten by Coventry City. And only twice
in 19 seasons has he led a team beyond the 5th round - both whilst at
Bolton, in 2000 (semi final) and 2005 (quarter final).
Big Sam's FA Cup Record
West Ham United
2013: 3rd Round (Nottingham Forest)
2012: 3rd Round (Manchester United, replay)
2011: 3rd Round (Sheffield Wednesday)
Blackburn Rovers
2010: 3rd Round (Aston Villa)
2009: 5th Round (Coventry City)
Newcastle United
2008: 3rd Round (sacked before replay with Stoke)
Bolton Wanderers
2007: 4th Round (Arsenal, replay)
2006: 5th Round (West Ham, replay)
2005: Quarter Final (Arsenal)
2004: 3rd Round (Tranmere, replay)
2003: 3rd Round (Sunderland, replay)
2002: 4th Round (Tottenham)
2001: 5th Round (Blackburn, replay)
2000: Semi Final (Aston Villa, penalties)
Notts County
1999: 1st Round (Bournemouth, replay)
1998: 3rd Round (Sheffield Wednesday, replay)
1997: 3rd Round (Aston Villa, replay)
Blackpool
1996: 3rd Round: (Huddersfield)
1995: 1st Round (Preston North End)
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Kevin Nolan leads West Ham team in visit to children's ward in east London
hospital
West Ham stars gave out festive goodie bags to young patients
They visited the Rainbow Ward at Newham University Hospital on Tuesday
Kevin Nolan led seven of his team-mates in giving out the presents
James Tomkins, James Collins, Stewart Downing, Mauro Zarate, Diego Poyet,
Matt Jarvis and Alex Song were among those at the visit
By MATT LAWLESS FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:24, 16 December 2014 | UPDATED: 20:25, 16 December 2014
West Ham's stars helped spread some Christmas cheer on Tuesday afternoon as
captain Kevin Nolan led a hospital visit to a children's ward in east
London. Just a stone's throw away from the Hammers' Upton Park home, Nolan
was one of eight first-team players from Sam Allardyce's squad to hand out
festive goodie bags containing games, mini-footballs, towels and much more
to young patients on the Rainbow Ward at Newham University Hospital. Nurses
and hospital staff were equally delighted as they posed for photographs and
got autographs from Nolan, James Tomkins, James Collins, Stewart Downing,
Mauro Zarate, Diego Poyet, Matt Jarvis and Alex Song. Defender Tomkins said
he and his team-mates were aware of how difficult the holiday season can be
for those who cannot be at home for Christmas. 'It's a time of year I enjoy
coming to see the kids and being very humble, as some of them are really ill
and you just hope they can get home in time for Christmas,' he said.
'Spending time with family is what it's all about at this time of year, so
it keeps your feet on the ground when you know there are kids out there
going through a tough time. 'We just wish them all well and hope they get
home and spend Christmas in front of the tree, which is where everyone wants
to be. I have got a fairly big family and I can obviously relate to seeing
the mums and dads here with their kids in hospital, which is not the ideal
place they want to be. 'All the lads have been really positive and given
them some nice West Ham treats for Christmas, so hopefully we have puts some
smiles on faces.' The Hammers, meanwhile, will be looking to maintain their
fine form when they host the Premier League's bottom side Leicester on
Saturday. Allardyce's side are unbeaten in their last five games and sit
high in fourth place, just three points behind Manchester United.
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Irons won't rule out move for Spaniard
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are not entirely ruling out a move for Valencia defensive
midfielder Javi Fuego but insist there have been no talks "at this stage."
The 30 year old has been on the Irons radar for some time without any formal
moves having been put together and as the stories emerged again today a top
Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "You can never say never." "However, at
this moment it appears to be agents talking although no approach has been
made by West Ham at this time." However, should the Irons move in on the
player, it may be tricky taking him out of the Spanish club where he is
under contract until 2016. Reports coming out of the club are that Valencia
– one of the financially poorest in La Liga – are simply not interested in
selling but there's more than an even money chance the Irons may go back in
for him.
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Ravel can have no complaints as time runs out
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
That Ravel Morrison should take a picture of himself and post it on
Instagram on his return to Upton Park showing his track suit bottoms
accompanied by the single word "gym" showed that nothing much has changed.
We've become used to the boy posting pictures of himself in Chelsea and
Arsenal shirts and the like over the past couple of years along with a
number of enigmatic Tweets. My first thought when seeing the latest pic was:
"Why?" After everything that's gone off in his life why would he be posting
on social media at a time when his sole focus should surely have been on
life at the club given the current circumstances. We've seen Ravel score
truly stupendous goals and produce a level of performance which brought him
to the attention of England under-21 manager Gareth Southgate before being
shipped out to Queens Park Rangers and later Cardiff City. His talent and
skill factor is unique. He's a player the like of which at his best, we
probably haven't seen in this country since the days of Gazza. But along
the way there have also been court appearances with the main hearing due
for January 26. The questions he faces in Crown Court may be easier to
answer than those regarding his future football career which looks certain
to be away from Upton Park. After being managed by three of the country's
most experienced bosses – Sir Alex Ferguson, Sam Allardyce and Harry
Redknapp – the obvious question now is where on earth next?
It's a tragedy. Players like Ravel come along only two or three times in a
lifetime and he could have – still might if he can truly get his thing
together – a big career. Ravel is a young man with a troubled past who
somehow has to find his way into a future. I, for one, hope and pray the boy
finds his way forward for if not we will witness one of the saddest stories
of the modern game. One thing I know for sure is that West Ham United has
given him every chance to find himself at the Boleyn. He has received more
arms around the shoulder than can be counted. Now a decision is about to be
made and whatever the outcome the boy can have no complaints over the
decisions taken after being given every opportunity to find himself. The
only one West Ham may regret not taking was the offer from Fulham when it
was allegedly on the table. In every respect they have managed a hugely
difficult situation as well as anyone could have expected.
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Sakho new deal done – Noble next!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Diafra Sakho has ironed out his new West Ham deal which is due to kick in
after 25 games. ClaretandHugh revealed several weeks ago that co chairman
David Sullivan wanted to reward the player and after pictures were posted by
Sakho on the social media networks it was clear a deal had been done. The
player and chairman thrashed out the deal at Sullivan's mansion today after
the player has made one of the most successful steps into the Premier League
by any player EVER! Currently much of the striker's deal is based on
appearance money but the new deal is thought to take him up tpo £25k a week
with bonuses. Sakho arrived at the club for £3.5 million which goes to £7
million after he has played around 150 games and we were told by a well
placed source there are no escape clauses. A ClaretandHugh source said:
"This has been on the cards for some time and is a great deal for player and
the club. The next big deal on the agenda is Mark Noble's who will be
offered another five years in the summer
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Sakho: The financials …as Noble waits
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Noble is the next Hammer in line to be offered a hefty new contract. Co
chairman and chief shareholder David Sullivan tonight kept his pledge to
reward the extraordinary Diafra Sakho with a vastly improved deal after his
early season goal-scoring feats. ClaretandHugh reported on October 28 that
Sullivan was ready to up his contract as a reward for excellence. The player
accepted terms of around £15,000 a week, a percentage of which was based on
first team appearances when joining the club. We said: "Such has been his
utterly outstanding start to the season the club are set to review the terms
of his contract. sakho-diafra_3214372A well placed insider was reported as
saying: "David is keen to reward him. He gets a review after 25 starts in
his contract. If he keeps scoring, however, David will bring that forward as
a reward for excellence." And that is precisely what has happened with the
player now believed to be on £25k a week with appearance bonuses. Noble is
now set to receive a new offer although we are told that will be closer to
the summer with Sullivan taking up the two year option the club hold on him
whilst offering another three years on improved money.
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Downing makes a very serious point
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Stewart Downing has made a particularly strong point in claiming the manager
and players were happy with the point at Sunderland. Quite apart from the
fact that it's a hard place to visit – as Chelsea discovered when being held
to a draw – he makes it clear that after three games in nine days, all of
them won, this was a fine effort. Such has been the excitement of watching
the Hammers reverting whenever possible to the brand of football that
attracted most of us to the club in the first place, it's easy to overlook
simple virtues. And the resilience of this side in beating Newcastle West
Brom and Swansea, coming from behind in the last two games whilst doing the
same for the Sunderland point, is a tremendous achievement. This comes from
the confidence the team has amassed this season in never knowing when it is
beaten and reinforces the point made by Claretandhugh's chief analyst/pundit
that they are truly where they belong.
Downing sums it up neatly saying: "We should go into Christmas with a lot of
confidence now. Obviously we've got games in the space of three days over
that period – away at Chelsea on Boxing Day and here against Arsenal on 28
December – but there are no excuses because we have a big squad and can make
changes, so onwards and upwards. We're brimming with confidence, as you
could see with the way we came back at Sunderland. We kept going and got a
big point in the end. As David Gold Claretandhugh last week in an interview:
"We can all start believing we are supporting a very good team."
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West Ham ready to terminate Ravel Morrison's contract
Ravel Morrison, the troubled West Ham United midfielder, faces Upton Park
exit
By Matt Law
4:28PM GMT 16 Dec 2014
West Ham United want to terminate troubled midfielder Ravel Morrison's
contract with immediate effect. Morrison has returned to the Upton Park club
after his Cardiff City loan was cut short and has trained with West Ham's
Under-21s. But, rather than wait to try to find another club willing to sign
him, West Ham have decided they want to get rid of Morrison as quickly as
possible. Morrison earns around £15,000-a-week, but West Ham are unlikely to
offer him the full terms of his contract to leave. Instead, they will argue
that a host of disciplinary issues mean they do not have to hand the
21-year-old a pay-off. It remains to be seen whether or not Morrison digs
his heels in and tries to fight his corner, but the England Under-21
international looks set to be faced with trying to find himself a new club.
Co-owner David Sullivan rejected advice from close allies on numerous
occasions to try to help Morrison realise his potential at Upton Park, but
even his patience appears to have now snapped. Cardiff claimed that Morrison
had returned to West Ham on compassionate grounds, but the player made
little impact in Wales despite his considerable talent. Not wanting to risk
him disturbing the good spirit within the first-team squad, who lie fourth
in the Premier League table, the club told Morrison that he would have to
train with the club's youngsters. Morrison has an £18 million release clause
in his West Ham contract and there was also a second clause that stated the
club would have to increase his wages to £60,000-a-week if they received a
£10m bid. Fulham had a £4m offer for Morrison turned down 12 months ago and
were reported to the Premier League by West Ham, before he joined Queens
Park Rangers on loan in February. Morrison enjoyed bright moments under
Harry Redknapp at Loftus Road, but, ultimately, failed to convince QPR to
try to sign him permanently. The loan to Championship club Cardiff was seen
as a last chance for Morrison to get his career on track, but with that
opportunity now gone West Ham no longer want to be responsible for his next
move. Morrison was last month cleared of threatening to throw acid in the
face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed. But he will stand trial at
Manchester Crown Court on January 26 on on three remaining charges of
assaulting Reah Mansoor, 19, and her mother, Parveen Mansoor, 39, in the
early hours of July 24.
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WHUFC.com
Andy Carroll is gearing up for the festive football after his latest 90
minutes at Sunderland
15.12.2014
While the festive season tends to be a testing one for most in the Barclays
Premier League, Andy Carroll is relishing the prospect of a flurry of
football. Following ankle surgery in the summer, the England international
missed the first three months of the season, but has now started each of
West Ham United's last five league outings. With lost time to make up, the
25-year-old reckons he is still in the equivalent of a traditional
pre-season and so is looking forward to getting stuck into a hectic
Christmas and New Year schedule. Speaking after his latest 90 minutes in
Saturday's 1-1 draw at Sunderland, Carroll said: "It feels great for me.
It's very important for me to come back from injury and stay injury free.
All the work I'm doing with the medical staff and the treatment team is
keeping me toned and fully fit, so it's obviously great for me to get
another 90 minutes. "Even though I haven't been playing games at the start
of the season, I've still been working very, very hard getting myself fit.
It's probably even more strenuous and harder work being injured and working
yourself back up than it is playing. "It's like my pre-season now, just
coming back. It's my first few games, so I'm raring to go. I'm still feeling
good and feeling fresh."
Reflecting on the weekend's hard-earned point at the Stadium of Light,
Carroll lamented missed opportunities, not least a late side-footed effort
that was a whisker away from bagging the Hammers another away win. He also
went close early on, nodding a pinpoint Stewart Downing cross over the top.
He explained: "It was a fantastic ball from Stewie and I thought I could
have done better with it. I got too much on it and my timing was a little
bit out. It was the first real cross that we got in and had it been another
five minutes into the game, maybe I'd have done better with it. "The one at
the end fell nicely for me and I've side-footed it just past the post. I
thought it was a decent effort, but it wasn't on target. It was a good
strike, but unfortunately it's not got gone in. "It was great to get a point
away from home, but I think we could have had the three and deservedly
should have had the three."
On the back of Saturday's stalemate, Carroll reckons the visit of Leicester
City has now taken on greater significance, with the Hammers targeting
maximum points against the Premier League strugglers. "It'll be another
tough game, every game's a tough game and obviously they're not doing
particularly well at the minute but it's still going to be tough for us," he
continued. "We've got to go out there and try to get the points that we
want. "With the game on Saturday, we felt the next two were winnable games
and six points would have been great for us. We've come up here, it's been a
tough game, got the one, so it's more important now to get the three against
Leicester, which I think we can do."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mediawatch - 16 December
WHUFC.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
16.12.2014
Andy Carroll tells the Mail Online that he is raring to go after completing
another 90 minutes at Sunderland on Saturday.
Sam Allardyce is quoted in the Evening Standard as saying his team are
making life easy for him this season.
According to the Mirror, Alex Song has given the Club fresh hope that they
would be able to sign him on a permanent basis.
BBC Sport confirm that Ravel Morrison has been granted compassionate leave
by Cardiff City to train with the Hammers.
Sticking with Morrison, the Mail believe that the Hammers could be peparing
to sell the midfielder in January.
In the same newspaper, West Ham are said to be renewing their interest in
26-year-old Sporting Lisbon striker Islam Slimani.
Meanwhile, the Telegraph include a round-up of possible transfer deadlings
for the Hammers in January.
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On this day - 16 December
WHUFc.com
Elliot Lee turns 20 today while the Hammers also enjoyed home success on
this day in 1972
16.12.2014
Anniversary
West Ham United striker Elliot Lee celebrates his 20th birthday today. The
forward was born on this day in Durham in 1994. Stocky, powerful and blessed
with a natural finisher's ability, Lee finished the 2011/12 season as the
under-18s leading goal scorer, netting more than 20 times in all
competitions. The son of former West Ham United and England midfielder Rob
Lee, the frontman is a prolific goal-getter. This season he is the
Development Squad's top scorer, having already netted five goals in eight
games.
Classic match
West Ham United 3-2 Stoke City
Division One
16 December 1972
The Hammers recorded only their second win in six games as they earned a
hard fought victory over Stoke City at the Boleyn Ground.
A double from Bryan 'Pop' Robson helped the home side on their way with
Clyde Best also to thank as he netted one of the seven league goals which he
managed during the season. The win moved the Hammers up to seventh place, a
position they would be in and around all season before they eventually ended
up sixth.
Complete record - 16 December
1922 Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-4 West Ham United (Division Two)
1933 Port Vale 0-0 West Ham United (Division Two)
1950 Hull City 1-2 West Ham United (Division Two)
1961 Manchester United 1-2 West Ham United (Division One)
1963 West Ham United 6-0 Workington Town (League Cup)
1967 Sheffield Wednesday 4-1 West Ham United (Division One)
1972 West Ham United 3-2 Stoke City (Division One)
1978 West Ham United 2-0 Charlton Athletic (Division Two)
1989 West Ham United 0-2 Oldham Athletic (Division Two)
1995 West Ham United 2-1 Southampton (Premier League)
1999 West Ham United 2-2 Aston Villa (League Cup)
2000 Everton 1-1 West Ham United (Premier League)
Played 12, Won 6, Drawn, 3, Lost 3, Scored 25, Conceded 15
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New deal for Sakho?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Speculation is rife tonight that Diafra Sakho has been rewarded for his fine
form with a new contract. The Senegal international, who signed for West Ham
back in August spent the afternoon at the home of co-owner David Sullivan
where, it has been claimed, negotiations over a new, improved contract were
had. Either way, it seems the two found some common ground at some point ...
as the image below, posted by Sakho on his Twitter feed this afternoon,
indicates!
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Go now, Ravel!
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United are planning to release Ravel Morrison on a free transfer
with immediate effect, according to Matt Law. Law, writing in the Telegraph
tonight claims that the club are seeking to effectively cancel Morrison's
contract six months before it is due to expire, at the end of the current
season. The troubled midfielder returned to West Ham at the weekend 10 days
ahead of his scheduled return from Cardiff, where he had been on loan since
August. During his time with the Bluebirds Morrison made just seven
appearances, without scoring a single goal. Prior to that he featured twice
for West Ham this season, against Sheffield United (defeat on penalties) and
Southampton (a 3-1 defeat). Law adds that West Ham will argue Morrison's
numerous off-field issues - combined with a poor disciplinary record whilst
on club duty - allows the club to refrain from paying off his contract in
full - a sum in the region of £400,000.
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West Ham take half of FA Cup allocation
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have requested 3,000 tickets for the FA Cup tie at Everton on
Tuesday, 6 January - just 50 per cent of those available.
As a result of the tie being moved from the weekend to a Tuesday night, West
Ham have taken just half of the available allocation for Goodison Park as
opposed to the larger number available to away teams in the FA Cup. FA rules
state that clubs can ask for up to 15 per cent of the stadium's capacity,
which in this case is just over 40,000 - meaning that the Hammers could have
requested up to 6,000 tickets. However the decision to move the tie to a
Tuesday evening for the benefit of the TV audience- a first for an FA Cup
third round tie - means that thousands of West Ham fans who would have
otherwise made the 220 mile trip from east London to Merseyside will not now
be able to attend.
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Allardyce to break Cup hoodoo?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 16th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce will be hoping to win his first ever FA Cup tie since joining
West Ham when he takes his team to Goodison Park next month.
West Ham might be flying high in the Premier League right now but Big Sam
will have to break an unwelcome sequence if he is to help propel West Ham
into the next round of the FA Cup. Back in 2012, in Allardyce's first season
at the Boleyn Ground, West Ham were dumped out of the competition at the
first attempt by Sheffield Wednesday, then a League One club; the only goal
of the game coming from Chris O'Grady two minutes from the end of normal
time. The Hammers fared little better a year later when drawn against
Manchester United. Despite having home advantage, West Ham were denied a
famous victory when Robin Van Persie scored a 90th minute equaliser to send
the game into a replay at Old Trafford, which the hosts won 1-0. And the
less said about last season the better, when a mostly young and
inexperienced West Ham team including the likes of George Moncur (now at
Colchester), Callum Driver (now at non-league Dartford), Alou Diarra
(currently training with Brighton) and Modibo Maiga (on loan at Metz) were
thrashed 5-0 by Championship side Nottingham Forest in front of live TV
cameras.
In fact, the last time Allardyce managed to take a team beyond the third
round of the competition was back in 2009, when his then Blackburn side
reached the fifth round before being beaten by Coventry City. And only twice
in 19 seasons has he led a team beyond the 5th round - both whilst at
Bolton, in 2000 (semi final) and 2005 (quarter final).
Big Sam's FA Cup Record
West Ham United
2013: 3rd Round (Nottingham Forest)
2012: 3rd Round (Manchester United, replay)
2011: 3rd Round (Sheffield Wednesday)
Blackburn Rovers
2010: 3rd Round (Aston Villa)
2009: 5th Round (Coventry City)
Newcastle United
2008: 3rd Round (sacked before replay with Stoke)
Bolton Wanderers
2007: 4th Round (Arsenal, replay)
2006: 5th Round (West Ham, replay)
2005: Quarter Final (Arsenal)
2004: 3rd Round (Tranmere, replay)
2003: 3rd Round (Sunderland, replay)
2002: 4th Round (Tottenham)
2001: 5th Round (Blackburn, replay)
2000: Semi Final (Aston Villa, penalties)
Notts County
1999: 1st Round (Bournemouth, replay)
1998: 3rd Round (Sheffield Wednesday, replay)
1997: 3rd Round (Aston Villa, replay)
Blackpool
1996: 3rd Round: (Huddersfield)
1995: 1st Round (Preston North End)
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Kevin Nolan leads West Ham team in visit to children's ward in east London
hospital
West Ham stars gave out festive goodie bags to young patients
They visited the Rainbow Ward at Newham University Hospital on Tuesday
Kevin Nolan led seven of his team-mates in giving out the presents
James Tomkins, James Collins, Stewart Downing, Mauro Zarate, Diego Poyet,
Matt Jarvis and Alex Song were among those at the visit
By MATT LAWLESS FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 20:24, 16 December 2014 | UPDATED: 20:25, 16 December 2014
West Ham's stars helped spread some Christmas cheer on Tuesday afternoon as
captain Kevin Nolan led a hospital visit to a children's ward in east
London. Just a stone's throw away from the Hammers' Upton Park home, Nolan
was one of eight first-team players from Sam Allardyce's squad to hand out
festive goodie bags containing games, mini-footballs, towels and much more
to young patients on the Rainbow Ward at Newham University Hospital. Nurses
and hospital staff were equally delighted as they posed for photographs and
got autographs from Nolan, James Tomkins, James Collins, Stewart Downing,
Mauro Zarate, Diego Poyet, Matt Jarvis and Alex Song. Defender Tomkins said
he and his team-mates were aware of how difficult the holiday season can be
for those who cannot be at home for Christmas. 'It's a time of year I enjoy
coming to see the kids and being very humble, as some of them are really ill
and you just hope they can get home in time for Christmas,' he said.
'Spending time with family is what it's all about at this time of year, so
it keeps your feet on the ground when you know there are kids out there
going through a tough time. 'We just wish them all well and hope they get
home and spend Christmas in front of the tree, which is where everyone wants
to be. I have got a fairly big family and I can obviously relate to seeing
the mums and dads here with their kids in hospital, which is not the ideal
place they want to be. 'All the lads have been really positive and given
them some nice West Ham treats for Christmas, so hopefully we have puts some
smiles on faces.' The Hammers, meanwhile, will be looking to maintain their
fine form when they host the Premier League's bottom side Leicester on
Saturday. Allardyce's side are unbeaten in their last five games and sit
high in fourth place, just three points behind Manchester United.
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Irons won't rule out move for Spaniard
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are not entirely ruling out a move for Valencia defensive
midfielder Javi Fuego but insist there have been no talks "at this stage."
The 30 year old has been on the Irons radar for some time without any formal
moves having been put together and as the stories emerged again today a top
Hammers source told ClaretandHugh: "You can never say never." "However, at
this moment it appears to be agents talking although no approach has been
made by West Ham at this time." However, should the Irons move in on the
player, it may be tricky taking him out of the Spanish club where he is
under contract until 2016. Reports coming out of the club are that Valencia
– one of the financially poorest in La Liga – are simply not interested in
selling but there's more than an even money chance the Irons may go back in
for him.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel can have no complaints as time runs out
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
That Ravel Morrison should take a picture of himself and post it on
Instagram on his return to Upton Park showing his track suit bottoms
accompanied by the single word "gym" showed that nothing much has changed.
We've become used to the boy posting pictures of himself in Chelsea and
Arsenal shirts and the like over the past couple of years along with a
number of enigmatic Tweets. My first thought when seeing the latest pic was:
"Why?" After everything that's gone off in his life why would he be posting
on social media at a time when his sole focus should surely have been on
life at the club given the current circumstances. We've seen Ravel score
truly stupendous goals and produce a level of performance which brought him
to the attention of England under-21 manager Gareth Southgate before being
shipped out to Queens Park Rangers and later Cardiff City. His talent and
skill factor is unique. He's a player the like of which at his best, we
probably haven't seen in this country since the days of Gazza. But along
the way there have also been court appearances with the main hearing due
for January 26. The questions he faces in Crown Court may be easier to
answer than those regarding his future football career which looks certain
to be away from Upton Park. After being managed by three of the country's
most experienced bosses – Sir Alex Ferguson, Sam Allardyce and Harry
Redknapp – the obvious question now is where on earth next?
It's a tragedy. Players like Ravel come along only two or three times in a
lifetime and he could have – still might if he can truly get his thing
together – a big career. Ravel is a young man with a troubled past who
somehow has to find his way into a future. I, for one, hope and pray the boy
finds his way forward for if not we will witness one of the saddest stories
of the modern game. One thing I know for sure is that West Ham United has
given him every chance to find himself at the Boleyn. He has received more
arms around the shoulder than can be counted. Now a decision is about to be
made and whatever the outcome the boy can have no complaints over the
decisions taken after being given every opportunity to find himself. The
only one West Ham may regret not taking was the offer from Fulham when it
was allegedly on the table. In every respect they have managed a hugely
difficult situation as well as anyone could have expected.
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Sakho new deal done – Noble next!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Diafra Sakho has ironed out his new West Ham deal which is due to kick in
after 25 games. ClaretandHugh revealed several weeks ago that co chairman
David Sullivan wanted to reward the player and after pictures were posted by
Sakho on the social media networks it was clear a deal had been done. The
player and chairman thrashed out the deal at Sullivan's mansion today after
the player has made one of the most successful steps into the Premier League
by any player EVER! Currently much of the striker's deal is based on
appearance money but the new deal is thought to take him up tpo £25k a week
with bonuses. Sakho arrived at the club for £3.5 million which goes to £7
million after he has played around 150 games and we were told by a well
placed source there are no escape clauses. A ClaretandHugh source said:
"This has been on the cards for some time and is a great deal for player and
the club. The next big deal on the agenda is Mark Noble's who will be
offered another five years in the summer
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Sakho: The financials …as Noble waits
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Mark Noble is the next Hammer in line to be offered a hefty new contract. Co
chairman and chief shareholder David Sullivan tonight kept his pledge to
reward the extraordinary Diafra Sakho with a vastly improved deal after his
early season goal-scoring feats. ClaretandHugh reported on October 28 that
Sullivan was ready to up his contract as a reward for excellence. The player
accepted terms of around £15,000 a week, a percentage of which was based on
first team appearances when joining the club. We said: "Such has been his
utterly outstanding start to the season the club are set to review the terms
of his contract. sakho-diafra_3214372A well placed insider was reported as
saying: "David is keen to reward him. He gets a review after 25 starts in
his contract. If he keeps scoring, however, David will bring that forward as
a reward for excellence." And that is precisely what has happened with the
player now believed to be on £25k a week with appearance bonuses. Noble is
now set to receive a new offer although we are told that will be closer to
the summer with Sullivan taking up the two year option the club hold on him
whilst offering another three years on improved money.
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Downing makes a very serious point
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 16, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Stewart Downing has made a particularly strong point in claiming the manager
and players were happy with the point at Sunderland. Quite apart from the
fact that it's a hard place to visit – as Chelsea discovered when being held
to a draw – he makes it clear that after three games in nine days, all of
them won, this was a fine effort. Such has been the excitement of watching
the Hammers reverting whenever possible to the brand of football that
attracted most of us to the club in the first place, it's easy to overlook
simple virtues. And the resilience of this side in beating Newcastle West
Brom and Swansea, coming from behind in the last two games whilst doing the
same for the Sunderland point, is a tremendous achievement. This comes from
the confidence the team has amassed this season in never knowing when it is
beaten and reinforces the point made by Claretandhugh's chief analyst/pundit
that they are truly where they belong.
Downing sums it up neatly saying: "We should go into Christmas with a lot of
confidence now. Obviously we've got games in the space of three days over
that period – away at Chelsea on Boxing Day and here against Arsenal on 28
December – but there are no excuses because we have a big squad and can make
changes, so onwards and upwards. We're brimming with confidence, as you
could see with the way we came back at Sunderland. We kept going and got a
big point in the end. As David Gold Claretandhugh last week in an interview:
"We can all start believing we are supporting a very good team."
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West Ham ready to terminate Ravel Morrison's contract
Ravel Morrison, the troubled West Ham United midfielder, faces Upton Park
exit
By Matt Law
4:28PM GMT 16 Dec 2014
West Ham United want to terminate troubled midfielder Ravel Morrison's
contract with immediate effect. Morrison has returned to the Upton Park club
after his Cardiff City loan was cut short and has trained with West Ham's
Under-21s. But, rather than wait to try to find another club willing to sign
him, West Ham have decided they want to get rid of Morrison as quickly as
possible. Morrison earns around £15,000-a-week, but West Ham are unlikely to
offer him the full terms of his contract to leave. Instead, they will argue
that a host of disciplinary issues mean they do not have to hand the
21-year-old a pay-off. It remains to be seen whether or not Morrison digs
his heels in and tries to fight his corner, but the England Under-21
international looks set to be faced with trying to find himself a new club.
Co-owner David Sullivan rejected advice from close allies on numerous
occasions to try to help Morrison realise his potential at Upton Park, but
even his patience appears to have now snapped. Cardiff claimed that Morrison
had returned to West Ham on compassionate grounds, but the player made
little impact in Wales despite his considerable talent. Not wanting to risk
him disturbing the good spirit within the first-team squad, who lie fourth
in the Premier League table, the club told Morrison that he would have to
train with the club's youngsters. Morrison has an £18 million release clause
in his West Ham contract and there was also a second clause that stated the
club would have to increase his wages to £60,000-a-week if they received a
£10m bid. Fulham had a £4m offer for Morrison turned down 12 months ago and
were reported to the Premier League by West Ham, before he joined Queens
Park Rangers on loan in February. Morrison enjoyed bright moments under
Harry Redknapp at Loftus Road, but, ultimately, failed to convince QPR to
try to sign him permanently. The loan to Championship club Cardiff was seen
as a last chance for Morrison to get his career on track, but with that
opportunity now gone West Ham no longer want to be responsible for his next
move. Morrison was last month cleared of threatening to throw acid in the
face of his ex-girlfriend and have her killed. But he will stand trial at
Manchester Crown Court on January 26 on on three remaining charges of
assaulting Reah Mansoor, 19, and her mother, Parveen Mansoor, 39, in the
early hours of July 24.
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Tuesday, December 16
Daily WHUFC News - 16th December 2014
Manager on Monday
WHUFC.com
West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce had high praise for Stewart Downing after
Saturday's draw
14.12.2014
Sam Allardyce is thrilled that Stewart Downing is continuing to produce some
of the best football of his career with West Ham United this season. The
Hammers midfielder notched his third goal of the campaign in Saturday's 1-1
draw with Sunderland, to cancel out Jordi Gomez's opener and earn his side a
point. Downing's goal threat has increased significantly this season after
only notching once last term and Big Sam says his shift to a more central
role has helped with that. He explained: "When you talk about changing a
player's position, with somebody like Stewart's experience, you say 'well,
if it doesn't work you go back to where you were and we don't worry about it
- it's more my responsibility than yours.' "But he hasn't just liked it,
he's loved it. You can see the freedom he's gained by being able to pop up
in different areas of the field, finding space that we need to find, and our
other midfield players will find him with the ball. "He will turn and run at
opposition defenders and cause them huge amounts of problems. Not only did
he do that on Saturday, but he scored as well. He got one all of last
season, but he's got three already now and could have had six or seven, so I
hope he continues in the same vein. "Lots of players have to change the way
they play when they get that little bit older and gain that experience,
finding a different way of expressing their ability, and it's worked
brilliantly for us and him at the minute."
The point at Sunderland extended the Hammers' unbeaten run to four matches
and Allardyce felt his side showed the necessary attacking instincts to have
won the game. He added: "We didn't sit back at any stage of the game on
Saturday, every time we got the chance to go forward we did, and that was us
trying to get the win. "It's coming up to half way now and we're still in
the top four. It makes my job easier when the team goes out and plays like
it did on Saturday."
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Hard-earned point pleases Downing
WHUFC.com
Goalscorer Stewart Downing was content to grab a share of the spoils at
Sunderland
15.12.2014
Stewart Downing continued his outstanding 2014/15 season by scoring West Ham
United's goal in a competitive 1-1 draw at Sunderland.
The No11 drew the Hammers level when Jordi Gomez deflected his 20-yard shot
past Costel Pantilimon just minutes after the Black Cats had taken the lead
through the Spaniard's disputed penalty. West Ham started the brighter, but
Sunderland took the lead on 21 minutes when James Tomkins was penalised for
what looked like minimal contact with Adam Johnson. Sam Allardyce's side
regrouped and Downing bagged his third goal of the season eight minutes
later. With six assists and three goals in 15 league appearances this
season, the England international is in wonderful form. "I am obviously
pleased with the goal but the most important thing was that we got something
out of the game," he began. "We had a tough week, but we managed to get the
maximum nine points out of nine, so this point was a bonus for us from a
really tough game. "The manager stressed that we needed to get off to a good
start and I thought we did and could have gone a couple of goals up. "The
penalty was a little bit soft and they took the lead, but I thought we
responded very well and I think a draw was a fair result in the end."
For the third league match in succession, West Ham had to come from a goal
down to secure a positive result, grabbing a draw following wins over West
Bromwich Albion and Swansea City. It is a habit the midfielder is keen to
shake off. "The manager stressed that, although we're doing well by coming
back and not losing games, we need to start well because, if you're playing
against the top boys and they get a cushion of two or three goals, you won't
come back from that. "I think that's the only disappointing thing [going
behind], because we started well and then we conceded, so we did things the
opposite way around! "I don't think it was a penalty, but we got a big point
and now we go into the next home game and if we get maximum points in that
then we've had a good couple of weeks."
Downing's goal was similar to the one he netted at Crystal Palace in August,
cutting in from the right before shooting low with his left foot. "I think
my shot took a deflection off Gomez and went past him. He's a big lad, their
'keeper, so had to be something in the corner to get round him. "I just hit
it hard and low and, if he parries it, then one of the other lads could have
been sniffing and followed it in. I think the deflection has taken it in, so
I'll take it!"
With 28 points from 16 games, West Ham's dressing room is a hugely confident
place at present, but both Downing and manager Sam Allardyce have warned
that the Hammers cannot afford to start congratulating themselves. "The
manager is obviously pleased with us, but he is keeping us on our toes
because the competition for places is driving us on. One bad performance and
you're out and you could be out for weeks. "I think it breeds a lot of
confidence in the team. I'm sure the manager is very pleased at the moment
because he has a lot to pick from, but we're making it easier for him
because we keep winning games and getting back to back wins. "That was a big
point for us and hopefully we can carry on our home form and get another
three points next week. "The manager has told us that, because we beat Man
City, we can't just expect to turn up and win easily. It's not always like
that. "Sunderland is a difficult place to play and it proved that, with
their fans behind them. They will probably be disappointed they didn't win
with the chances they had, but we're the same so it probably evened itself
out in the end. A draw was a good result."
Now, West Ham gave a home fixture with bottom club Leicester City to look
forward to before a busy Christmas period that includes a Boxing Day trip to
Chelsea and home games with Arsenal and West Brom. "We should go into
Christmas with a lot of confidence. If you look at the table, we're in a
healthy position and we've got games we're confident of getting results in.
"Obviously we've got games in the space of three days over that period, but
there are no excuses because we have a big squad and can make changes, so
onwards and upwards.
"We're brimming with confidence, as you could see with the way we came back
at Sunderland. We kept going and got a big point in the end."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mediawatch - 15 December
WHUFc.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
15.12.2014
Monday's newspapers include further coverage of Saturday's 1-1 draw at
Sunderland, with this report in the Express focusing on the Hammers' top-six
credentials.
In the Mail Online, Sam Allardyce again champions Stewart Downing's England
cause after his goalscoring display at the Stadium of Light.
Downing's praises are also sung in the Guardian, Times (£) and Mirror.
Andy Carroll says his party-boy reputation is an unfair one in the Mirror.
A comment piece in City AM reckons West Ham will battle it out with
Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal for fourth place in the league.
Finally, Modibo Maiga will learn his punishment for missing Metz's game at
Marseille from Les Grenats this week, according to the Mirror.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan watch
WHUFC.com
Catch up on how the West Ham United loanees fared this weekend
15.12.2014
Tim Brown played the full game as Canvey Island beat Peacehaven & Telscombe
2-1 in the Ryman Premier League. Canvey came from a goal behind to win
through a Harrison Chatting penalty and John Easterford's winner in the
second half. Sean Maguire played the full 90 minutes as Accrington Stanley
beat Portsmouth 3-2. Stanley raced to a 2-0 lead after just 15 minutes
through Rob Atkinson and John O'Sullivan. However the hosts responded well
with goals from Marcus Bean and Craig Westcarr to make it 2-2 at half-time.
Piero Mingoia sealed the victory for Stanley to take them to eleventh in
League Two.
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Ladies held in six-goal thriller
WHUFC.com
West Ham United led and trailed before drawing 3-3 at Charlton Athletic
15.12.2014
West Ham United Ladies came from behind to rescue a 3-3 FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division draw at Charlton Athletic on Sunday afternoon. The
Hammers led at the break through winger Sarah McCrea's volley, before Kelley
Blanchflower doubled the visitors' lead shortly after half-time after good
build-up play involving Lily Mellors and April Bowers. Charlton forced their
way back into the game through Kit Graham's brace, before Addicks skipper
Charley Clifford netted a third directly from a corner. The Hammers worked
hard to get back into the game and got their reward when Vicky Kinsman rose
the highest in a crowd to head home from Danica Revell's free-kick.
Manager Julian Dicks had a near full-strength team available for the match
at Sporting Club Thamesmead, with striker Emma Sherwood overcoming injury
and illness to take a place on the substitutes' bench alongside Development
Squad star Jade Smith and returning Hammer Kerry Stimson. Adele Sale made
her first-team debut in place of Ruby Baxter, who was ruled out with illness
on the day of the game.
The visitors went into the game looking to end 2014 with a positive result,
having picked up six victories from their nine league fixtures prior to
kick-off.
After Charlton had bossed the game in the early minutes, West Ham worked
hard to regain control of the match and were rewarded with the opening goal
when McCrea timed her run perfectly towards the front post to meet
Blanchflower's corner with a sweet volley into the bottom corner of the net.
The Hammers kept up their pressure for the remainder of the first half and
almost doubled their lead when Bowers met Blanchflower's cross with a free
header from six yards out, before McCrea fired low straight at Charlton
goalkeeper Megan Linch. After the break, the pressure told and the visitors
did register their second goal. After Mellors plucked the ball out of the
air, Bowers refused to give up inside the penalty area, battling for
possession and allowing Blanchflower to step in and find the back of the net
despite the best efforts of an Addicks defender to clear off the line.
Within the next 15 minutes however, West Ham found themselves level at 2-2
after a brace from Graham. Firstly, the 19-year-old met Nikita Whinnett's
cross to head home, before slamming in the equalizer from close range with
68 minutes on the clock.
If that was not enough to shock the travelling Hammers, they found
themselves behind three minutes later when Clifford's right-wing corner
somehow managed to find its way directly into the top left-hand corner of
the net. After suffering defeat by Charlton earlier this season in the Ryman
Cup, the visitors refused to give up on the game and they levelled with just
over ten minutes left on the clock when Kinsman appeared to get the final
touch in a crowd to head home from Revell's free-kick just inside the
Charlton half.
In the final ten minutes, both sides had chances to steal all three points.
Graham continued to threaten as she looked for her third goal of the game,
whilst McCrea narrowly fired over the bar at the other end of the pitch. The
Hammers end 2014 in sixth position in the Women's Premier League South, with
19 points from their ten fixtures this season. Dicks' side return to action
in the New Year with a trip to Somerset to face Keynsham Town Ladies on
Sunday 4 January 2015, with kick off scheduled for 2pm. The following
weekend, West Ham hit the road again to Brighton & Hove Albion for an FA
Women's Cup second round tie, before returning to Aveley to host Billericay
Town as they begin their defence of the Essex FA County Cup on Sunday 18
January.
Ladies: Runnacles, King (Stimson), Revell, Little, Bottom, McCrea, Bowers,
Sale (Sherwood), Blanchflower, Kinsman, Mellors
Sub not used: Smith
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Cardiff City: Ravel Morrison returns to West Ham
BBC.co.uk
Cardiff have granted Ravel Morrison compassionate leave and permitted him to
train with parent club West Ham. The midfielder, 21, on loan from the
Hammers, had been due to remain at Cardiff until after the Boxing Day match
against Charlton Athletic. But he has been allowed to return to more
familiar surroundings because of personal circumstances. The former
Manchester United trainee has made seven appearances for Cardiff since
joining in September. Morrison's last outing for Cardiff was as a substitute
in the 0-0 draw against Rotherham United at the beginning of December. His
appearance against the Millers was his first since Cardiff's 3-0 defeat away
at Bolton on 4 November. Morrison joined West Ham from Manchester United in
a £650,000 deal in January 2012.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison back at West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 15th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has ended his loan spell at Cardiff a fortnight early - and
is already back in training at West Ham. The troubled midfielder posted a
picture of himself on Instagram this afternoon working in the gym at
Chadwell Heath - almost two weeks before he was scheduled to return to the
club. Morrison's post is likely to be in response to a story by Jason Burt
in the Telegraph at the weekend in which it was claimed West Ham were set to
sell the England Under 21 international at the earliest possible
opportunity, having finally ran out of patience with him. During his brief
stint with the Bluebirds, Morrison managed just seven appearances, without
scoring a single goal. Prior to that he featured twice for West Ham this
season, against Sheffield United (defeat on penalties) and Southampton (a
3-1 defeat).
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Ravel Morrison back with West Ham after Cardiff loan is cut short
Last Updated: 15/12/14 7:45pm
SSN
Ravel Morrison has returned to West Ham after his loan spell with Cardiff
was cut short due to 'personal circumstances'. Morrison was due to remain on
loan with the Championship club until Boxing Day but the 21-year-old is now
back training with his parent club. The 21-year-old, who made just seven
appearances for Cardiff since joining the Welsh club two-and-a-half months
ago, posted a picture of himself during a training session at Upton Park on
Monday. Cardiff said in a statement: "Due to personal circumstances, Cardiff
City have allowed Ravel Morrison compassionate leave and permission to train
in more familiar surroundings at this time with his parent club, West Ham
United." Former Manchester United starlet Morrison joined Sam Allardyce's
side in January 2012 and has previously been loaned out to Birmingham City
and Queens Park Rangers.
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Hammers rule out midfielder move
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that the Hammers are ready to hold talks for Brescia playmaker
Ismail H'Maidat were tonight denied. Reports have been circulating for the
last couple of days that the Hammers had joined AC Milan, Fiorentina and
Sassuolo in the chase for the 19 year old.
H'Maidat has made 12 appearances in Serie B for Brescia so far this season,
providing a lone assist. He is a product of Anderlecht's youth academy, has
also turned out twice in the Coppa Italia. However, a Hammers source told
Claretandhugh this evening: "We are aware of him but there's no truth in
stories that we are planning to hold talks with his agent."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: "Champions League on way to Boleyn"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are about to have their current and future situations defined in
the games against Arsenal and Chelsea. And I believe they will emerge from
the Christmas games with English football being forced to accept that they
are now a genuine top four club. I bumped into Sam Allardyce over the
weekend at the Premier League where I work as a pundit and this is a man who
is extraordinarily confident at the moment – there's a spring in his step
and quite rightly too. Sam has always been a manager who has planned how to
defend against or exploit the weaknesses of the opposition. I really don't
think that's the case anymore. He knows – and so do I – that the Irons are a
team for others to worry about. They are genuinely top class and can stay in
the top four from now until the end of the season.
There are very few teams who carry the pace, power and threat of West Ham
United and I fully expect them to show how good they are by beating
Leicester and Arsenal. Chelsea may be a slightly different proposition but
we are gonna give them one hell of a game. We may be beaten but don't count
on it and we will then go on to beat West Brom! I watch an awful lot of
football over the course of a season and to date i haven't seen a team in
action of which the Hammers need to be afraid – the opposite is true. For us
to be coming from behind to gain points on a regular basis tells us all we
need to know about this team – we a re top four and I think Champions league
football is a very real possibility at the Boleyn next season. The rest of
English football will soon have to wake up to the fact hat we are a top top
side!
COYI
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cole has chance of a new deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in News Agenda, Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Carlton Cole still has the chance to earn himself a new West Ham deal over
the rest of the season. ClaretandHugh mistakenly reported yesterday that the
Cole contract was up in January, for which we apologise, when in fact his
deal runs out in the summer. And we were told earlier this afternoon that it
would be wrong to entirely rule out a new contract offer to the player who
has served the club for eight years. Cole, however, remains down the pecking
order of course and were an offer to come in for him the club would
understand were he to decide that he wanted the chance of of regular first
team football. We were told: "It's all in Carlton's hands. A new offer may
be considered unlikely by some but it depends on how he performs over the
second half of the season. "We never rule anything out on any front until we
have the end of season review as was demonstrated very clearly last season
with the manager."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham United January transfer news and rumours
Latest: All the transfer news, rumours and gossip for West Ham United in the
Premier League's summer window - will Manchester City's Micah Richards be
tempted to become a Hammers player?
By Matt Law
The Telegraph
Transfer window history: West Ham fans will pray there are no repeats of the
bizarre January loan signing of central defender Roger Johnson from
Wolverhampton Wanderers. Co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold are not
big fans of the January sales.
Budget: £5m. West Ham did superb business in the summer transfer window and
won't be looking make major January moves. The club may, however, need a
replacement for central defender Winston Reid.
Dream signing: Winston Reid. West Ham are desperate to tie the Kiwi down to
a new contract, but have so far been able to negotiate an agreement.
Allardyce may have to sell him in January, rather than risk losing him for
free. Arsenal and Everton are interested.
Probable signing: Nicolas N'Koulou. West Ham have been watching the
Marseille defender in case Reid leaves in January. The 24-year-old Cameroon
international would cost around £5m.
Other targets: West Ham would love to turn the loan signing of midfielder
Alex Song, who has been a revelation, into a permanent deal, but
negotiations will have to wait until the summer.
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce had high praise for Stewart Downing after
Saturday's draw
14.12.2014
Sam Allardyce is thrilled that Stewart Downing is continuing to produce some
of the best football of his career with West Ham United this season. The
Hammers midfielder notched his third goal of the campaign in Saturday's 1-1
draw with Sunderland, to cancel out Jordi Gomez's opener and earn his side a
point. Downing's goal threat has increased significantly this season after
only notching once last term and Big Sam says his shift to a more central
role has helped with that. He explained: "When you talk about changing a
player's position, with somebody like Stewart's experience, you say 'well,
if it doesn't work you go back to where you were and we don't worry about it
- it's more my responsibility than yours.' "But he hasn't just liked it,
he's loved it. You can see the freedom he's gained by being able to pop up
in different areas of the field, finding space that we need to find, and our
other midfield players will find him with the ball. "He will turn and run at
opposition defenders and cause them huge amounts of problems. Not only did
he do that on Saturday, but he scored as well. He got one all of last
season, but he's got three already now and could have had six or seven, so I
hope he continues in the same vein. "Lots of players have to change the way
they play when they get that little bit older and gain that experience,
finding a different way of expressing their ability, and it's worked
brilliantly for us and him at the minute."
The point at Sunderland extended the Hammers' unbeaten run to four matches
and Allardyce felt his side showed the necessary attacking instincts to have
won the game. He added: "We didn't sit back at any stage of the game on
Saturday, every time we got the chance to go forward we did, and that was us
trying to get the win. "It's coming up to half way now and we're still in
the top four. It makes my job easier when the team goes out and plays like
it did on Saturday."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hard-earned point pleases Downing
WHUFC.com
Goalscorer Stewart Downing was content to grab a share of the spoils at
Sunderland
15.12.2014
Stewart Downing continued his outstanding 2014/15 season by scoring West Ham
United's goal in a competitive 1-1 draw at Sunderland.
The No11 drew the Hammers level when Jordi Gomez deflected his 20-yard shot
past Costel Pantilimon just minutes after the Black Cats had taken the lead
through the Spaniard's disputed penalty. West Ham started the brighter, but
Sunderland took the lead on 21 minutes when James Tomkins was penalised for
what looked like minimal contact with Adam Johnson. Sam Allardyce's side
regrouped and Downing bagged his third goal of the season eight minutes
later. With six assists and three goals in 15 league appearances this
season, the England international is in wonderful form. "I am obviously
pleased with the goal but the most important thing was that we got something
out of the game," he began. "We had a tough week, but we managed to get the
maximum nine points out of nine, so this point was a bonus for us from a
really tough game. "The manager stressed that we needed to get off to a good
start and I thought we did and could have gone a couple of goals up. "The
penalty was a little bit soft and they took the lead, but I thought we
responded very well and I think a draw was a fair result in the end."
For the third league match in succession, West Ham had to come from a goal
down to secure a positive result, grabbing a draw following wins over West
Bromwich Albion and Swansea City. It is a habit the midfielder is keen to
shake off. "The manager stressed that, although we're doing well by coming
back and not losing games, we need to start well because, if you're playing
against the top boys and they get a cushion of two or three goals, you won't
come back from that. "I think that's the only disappointing thing [going
behind], because we started well and then we conceded, so we did things the
opposite way around! "I don't think it was a penalty, but we got a big point
and now we go into the next home game and if we get maximum points in that
then we've had a good couple of weeks."
Downing's goal was similar to the one he netted at Crystal Palace in August,
cutting in from the right before shooting low with his left foot. "I think
my shot took a deflection off Gomez and went past him. He's a big lad, their
'keeper, so had to be something in the corner to get round him. "I just hit
it hard and low and, if he parries it, then one of the other lads could have
been sniffing and followed it in. I think the deflection has taken it in, so
I'll take it!"
With 28 points from 16 games, West Ham's dressing room is a hugely confident
place at present, but both Downing and manager Sam Allardyce have warned
that the Hammers cannot afford to start congratulating themselves. "The
manager is obviously pleased with us, but he is keeping us on our toes
because the competition for places is driving us on. One bad performance and
you're out and you could be out for weeks. "I think it breeds a lot of
confidence in the team. I'm sure the manager is very pleased at the moment
because he has a lot to pick from, but we're making it easier for him
because we keep winning games and getting back to back wins. "That was a big
point for us and hopefully we can carry on our home form and get another
three points next week. "The manager has told us that, because we beat Man
City, we can't just expect to turn up and win easily. It's not always like
that. "Sunderland is a difficult place to play and it proved that, with
their fans behind them. They will probably be disappointed they didn't win
with the chances they had, but we're the same so it probably evened itself
out in the end. A draw was a good result."
Now, West Ham gave a home fixture with bottom club Leicester City to look
forward to before a busy Christmas period that includes a Boxing Day trip to
Chelsea and home games with Arsenal and West Brom. "We should go into
Christmas with a lot of confidence. If you look at the table, we're in a
healthy position and we've got games we're confident of getting results in.
"Obviously we've got games in the space of three days over that period, but
there are no excuses because we have a big squad and can make changes, so
onwards and upwards.
"We're brimming with confidence, as you could see with the way we came back
at Sunderland. We kept going and got a big point in the end."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Mediawatch - 15 December
WHUFc.com
Our daily look at West Ham United in the news
15.12.2014
Monday's newspapers include further coverage of Saturday's 1-1 draw at
Sunderland, with this report in the Express focusing on the Hammers' top-six
credentials.
In the Mail Online, Sam Allardyce again champions Stewart Downing's England
cause after his goalscoring display at the Stadium of Light.
Downing's praises are also sung in the Guardian, Times (£) and Mirror.
Andy Carroll says his party-boy reputation is an unfair one in the Mirror.
A comment piece in City AM reckons West Ham will battle it out with
Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal for fourth place in the league.
Finally, Modibo Maiga will learn his punishment for missing Metz's game at
Marseille from Les Grenats this week, according to the Mirror.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Loan watch
WHUFC.com
Catch up on how the West Ham United loanees fared this weekend
15.12.2014
Tim Brown played the full game as Canvey Island beat Peacehaven & Telscombe
2-1 in the Ryman Premier League. Canvey came from a goal behind to win
through a Harrison Chatting penalty and John Easterford's winner in the
second half. Sean Maguire played the full 90 minutes as Accrington Stanley
beat Portsmouth 3-2. Stanley raced to a 2-0 lead after just 15 minutes
through Rob Atkinson and John O'Sullivan. However the hosts responded well
with goals from Marcus Bean and Craig Westcarr to make it 2-2 at half-time.
Piero Mingoia sealed the victory for Stanley to take them to eleventh in
League Two.
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Ladies held in six-goal thriller
WHUFC.com
West Ham United led and trailed before drawing 3-3 at Charlton Athletic
15.12.2014
West Ham United Ladies came from behind to rescue a 3-3 FA Women's Premier
League Southern Division draw at Charlton Athletic on Sunday afternoon. The
Hammers led at the break through winger Sarah McCrea's volley, before Kelley
Blanchflower doubled the visitors' lead shortly after half-time after good
build-up play involving Lily Mellors and April Bowers. Charlton forced their
way back into the game through Kit Graham's brace, before Addicks skipper
Charley Clifford netted a third directly from a corner. The Hammers worked
hard to get back into the game and got their reward when Vicky Kinsman rose
the highest in a crowd to head home from Danica Revell's free-kick.
Manager Julian Dicks had a near full-strength team available for the match
at Sporting Club Thamesmead, with striker Emma Sherwood overcoming injury
and illness to take a place on the substitutes' bench alongside Development
Squad star Jade Smith and returning Hammer Kerry Stimson. Adele Sale made
her first-team debut in place of Ruby Baxter, who was ruled out with illness
on the day of the game.
The visitors went into the game looking to end 2014 with a positive result,
having picked up six victories from their nine league fixtures prior to
kick-off.
After Charlton had bossed the game in the early minutes, West Ham worked
hard to regain control of the match and were rewarded with the opening goal
when McCrea timed her run perfectly towards the front post to meet
Blanchflower's corner with a sweet volley into the bottom corner of the net.
The Hammers kept up their pressure for the remainder of the first half and
almost doubled their lead when Bowers met Blanchflower's cross with a free
header from six yards out, before McCrea fired low straight at Charlton
goalkeeper Megan Linch. After the break, the pressure told and the visitors
did register their second goal. After Mellors plucked the ball out of the
air, Bowers refused to give up inside the penalty area, battling for
possession and allowing Blanchflower to step in and find the back of the net
despite the best efforts of an Addicks defender to clear off the line.
Within the next 15 minutes however, West Ham found themselves level at 2-2
after a brace from Graham. Firstly, the 19-year-old met Nikita Whinnett's
cross to head home, before slamming in the equalizer from close range with
68 minutes on the clock.
If that was not enough to shock the travelling Hammers, they found
themselves behind three minutes later when Clifford's right-wing corner
somehow managed to find its way directly into the top left-hand corner of
the net. After suffering defeat by Charlton earlier this season in the Ryman
Cup, the visitors refused to give up on the game and they levelled with just
over ten minutes left on the clock when Kinsman appeared to get the final
touch in a crowd to head home from Revell's free-kick just inside the
Charlton half.
In the final ten minutes, both sides had chances to steal all three points.
Graham continued to threaten as she looked for her third goal of the game,
whilst McCrea narrowly fired over the bar at the other end of the pitch. The
Hammers end 2014 in sixth position in the Women's Premier League South, with
19 points from their ten fixtures this season. Dicks' side return to action
in the New Year with a trip to Somerset to face Keynsham Town Ladies on
Sunday 4 January 2015, with kick off scheduled for 2pm. The following
weekend, West Ham hit the road again to Brighton & Hove Albion for an FA
Women's Cup second round tie, before returning to Aveley to host Billericay
Town as they begin their defence of the Essex FA County Cup on Sunday 18
January.
Ladies: Runnacles, King (Stimson), Revell, Little, Bottom, McCrea, Bowers,
Sale (Sherwood), Blanchflower, Kinsman, Mellors
Sub not used: Smith
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Cardiff City: Ravel Morrison returns to West Ham
BBC.co.uk
Cardiff have granted Ravel Morrison compassionate leave and permitted him to
train with parent club West Ham. The midfielder, 21, on loan from the
Hammers, had been due to remain at Cardiff until after the Boxing Day match
against Charlton Athletic. But he has been allowed to return to more
familiar surroundings because of personal circumstances. The former
Manchester United trainee has made seven appearances for Cardiff since
joining in September. Morrison's last outing for Cardiff was as a substitute
in the 0-0 draw against Rotherham United at the beginning of December. His
appearance against the Millers was his first since Cardiff's 3-0 defeat away
at Bolton on 4 November. Morrison joined West Ham from Manchester United in
a £650,000 deal in January 2012.
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Ravel Morrison back at West Ham
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 15th December 2014
By: Staff Writer
Ravel Morrison has ended his loan spell at Cardiff a fortnight early - and
is already back in training at West Ham. The troubled midfielder posted a
picture of himself on Instagram this afternoon working in the gym at
Chadwell Heath - almost two weeks before he was scheduled to return to the
club. Morrison's post is likely to be in response to a story by Jason Burt
in the Telegraph at the weekend in which it was claimed West Ham were set to
sell the England Under 21 international at the earliest possible
opportunity, having finally ran out of patience with him. During his brief
stint with the Bluebirds, Morrison managed just seven appearances, without
scoring a single goal. Prior to that he featured twice for West Ham this
season, against Sheffield United (defeat on penalties) and Southampton (a
3-1 defeat).
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Ravel Morrison back with West Ham after Cardiff loan is cut short
Last Updated: 15/12/14 7:45pm
SSN
Ravel Morrison has returned to West Ham after his loan spell with Cardiff
was cut short due to 'personal circumstances'. Morrison was due to remain on
loan with the Championship club until Boxing Day but the 21-year-old is now
back training with his parent club. The 21-year-old, who made just seven
appearances for Cardiff since joining the Welsh club two-and-a-half months
ago, posted a picture of himself during a training session at Upton Park on
Monday. Cardiff said in a statement: "Due to personal circumstances, Cardiff
City have allowed Ravel Morrison compassionate leave and permission to train
in more familiar surroundings at this time with his parent club, West Ham
United." Former Manchester United starlet Morrison joined Sam Allardyce's
side in January 2012 and has previously been loaned out to Birmingham City
and Queens Park Rangers.
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Hammers rule out midfielder move
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Speculation that the Hammers are ready to hold talks for Brescia playmaker
Ismail H'Maidat were tonight denied. Reports have been circulating for the
last couple of days that the Hammers had joined AC Milan, Fiorentina and
Sassuolo in the chase for the 19 year old.
H'Maidat has made 12 appearances in Serie B for Brescia so far this season,
providing a lone assist. He is a product of Anderlecht's youth academy, has
also turned out twice in the Coppa Italia. However, a Hammers source told
Claretandhugh this evening: "We are aware of him but there's no truth in
stories that we are planning to hold talks with his agent."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: "Champions League on way to Boleyn"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are about to have their current and future situations defined in
the games against Arsenal and Chelsea. And I believe they will emerge from
the Christmas games with English football being forced to accept that they
are now a genuine top four club. I bumped into Sam Allardyce over the
weekend at the Premier League where I work as a pundit and this is a man who
is extraordinarily confident at the moment – there's a spring in his step
and quite rightly too. Sam has always been a manager who has planned how to
defend against or exploit the weaknesses of the opposition. I really don't
think that's the case anymore. He knows – and so do I – that the Irons are a
team for others to worry about. They are genuinely top class and can stay in
the top four from now until the end of the season.
There are very few teams who carry the pace, power and threat of West Ham
United and I fully expect them to show how good they are by beating
Leicester and Arsenal. Chelsea may be a slightly different proposition but
we are gonna give them one hell of a game. We may be beaten but don't count
on it and we will then go on to beat West Brom! I watch an awful lot of
football over the course of a season and to date i haven't seen a team in
action of which the Hammers need to be afraid – the opposite is true. For us
to be coming from behind to gain points on a regular basis tells us all we
need to know about this team – we a re top four and I think Champions league
football is a very real possibility at the Boleyn next season. The rest of
English football will soon have to wake up to the fact hat we are a top top
side!
COYI
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Cole has chance of a new deal
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 15, 2014 in News Agenda, Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Carlton Cole still has the chance to earn himself a new West Ham deal over
the rest of the season. ClaretandHugh mistakenly reported yesterday that the
Cole contract was up in January, for which we apologise, when in fact his
deal runs out in the summer. And we were told earlier this afternoon that it
would be wrong to entirely rule out a new contract offer to the player who
has served the club for eight years. Cole, however, remains down the pecking
order of course and were an offer to come in for him the club would
understand were he to decide that he wanted the chance of of regular first
team football. We were told: "It's all in Carlton's hands. A new offer may
be considered unlikely by some but it depends on how he performs over the
second half of the season. "We never rule anything out on any front until we
have the end of season review as was demonstrated very clearly last season
with the manager."
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West Ham United January transfer news and rumours
Latest: All the transfer news, rumours and gossip for West Ham United in the
Premier League's summer window - will Manchester City's Micah Richards be
tempted to become a Hammers player?
By Matt Law
The Telegraph
Transfer window history: West Ham fans will pray there are no repeats of the
bizarre January loan signing of central defender Roger Johnson from
Wolverhampton Wanderers. Co-chairmen David Sullivan and David Gold are not
big fans of the January sales.
Budget: £5m. West Ham did superb business in the summer transfer window and
won't be looking make major January moves. The club may, however, need a
replacement for central defender Winston Reid.
Dream signing: Winston Reid. West Ham are desperate to tie the Kiwi down to
a new contract, but have so far been able to negotiate an agreement.
Allardyce may have to sell him in January, rather than risk losing him for
free. Arsenal and Everton are interested.
Probable signing: Nicolas N'Koulou. West Ham have been watching the
Marseille defender in case Reid leaves in January. The 24-year-old Cameroon
international would cost around £5m.
Other targets: West Ham would love to turn the loan signing of midfielder
Alex Song, who has been a revelation, into a permanent deal, but
negotiations will have to wait until the summer.
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Monday, December 15
Daily WHUFC News - 15th December 2014
Nolan - 'Our response was fantastic'
WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan was impressed with another comeback but is desperate to break
the habit of conceding first
14.12.2014
Kevin Nolan hopes he has seen the last of West Ham United's rescue acts for
the time being, keen to get the Hammers firmly back on the front foot.
Following Saturday's 1-1 Barclays Premier League stalemate at Sunderland,
Sam Allardyce's men have now conceded the first goal in three successive
outings. Impressively, they have still managed to collect seven points in
the process, but skipper Nolan insists that falling behind is a habit they
need to shake and need to shake quickly. "It's something we've got to get
out of our systems," he said. "Once we get ahead I think we could be one of
those teams that can really start to punish sides. Gifting teams goals the
way we have in previous games is not what we're about and not a habit we
want to get into. "We've been fantastic coming from behind in the last three
games, but it's something we want to eradicate quickly, because in the
Premier League, sooner or later, teams are going to hold out or hit us on
the counter. "But you can't fault the lads' effort, their response or the
way we've been playing in the last few games. Three wins on the spin and
then obviously this draw makes it ten points out of 12. If you'd have given
us that a fortnight ago going into the Newcastle game, everyone would have
taken that."
While Nolan was hardly about to underestimate the value of a point away from
home, he still felt a tinge of disappointment that West Ham were not leaving
the Stadium of a Light with all three. He continued: "All in all you've got
to respect the point when you get it, you're never going to get an easy game
when you come away from home. I'm just a bit gutted that we had to come from
behind and through no fault of our own. "We're a bit disappointed with a few
major decisions that didn't go our way, especially the penalty, which got
their spirits up. The response from us was fantastic, again, and we could
have gone on to win it. I thought we dominated the game throughout the 90
minutes, but it wasn't to be. "You've got to respect the point, it's a tough
place to come. Everyone finds it tough when they come to Sunderland. They're
a good side and we had to respect that, so we're happy to leave with a
point."
Saturday's draw sees the Hammers unbeaten in four and a November defeat by
Everton is now the only blemish on a ten-game record that includes six wins
and three draws. Nolan is still smarting about that reverse at Goodison Park
and urged the Hammers to keep their latest undefeated sequence intact. "Even
that one defeat against Everton, we thoroughly deserved something out of
it," he added. "So we're very disappointed that we've got that on the
record, but it's now about trying to go as many games without defeat. "We've
got a few tough ones coming up, Leicester, who are fighting for their lives,
next week at home and then we've got Chelsea, who are flying high. They've
been fantastic, so we've got to go to Stamford Bridge and then Arsenal at
home. It's going to be an exciting Christmas and hopefully one that we'll be
celebrating."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stewart Downing delighted with West Ham form
Last Updated: 12/12/14 12:15pm
SSN
Stewart Downing says West Ham are loving being one of this season's surprise
packages after gatecrashing the Premier League top four.
The Hammers are fourth in the table and Downing reckons breaking the 'big
four' stranglehold on the Champions League places is important for the good
of football. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce spent a reported £31m in the summer
on the likes of Diafra Sahko, Cheikhou Kouyate and Aaron Cresswell but that
was dwarfed by the spending of Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.
"It's good, teams have spent a lot of money and people expected them to be
in the top four because of what they've spent but it doesn't always work
that way," Downing said.
"We have bought very well, the players coming in have settled well.
Sometimes you see players coming to the Premier League struggle to adapt.
It's a big plus for us."
Southampton and the Hammers have shocked the big clubs with their form
during the first half of the season and Downing says that is a good thing.
"I think it would be good for the league," he added. "If you looked at the
league at the minute you'd say it was false but we're there on merit, we've
done well and we've played some big teams and played them off the park on
the day. "We've beaten Liverpool and Manchester City and ground out a win
against Newcastle, which we would have lost last season. We have shown good
qualities." The Hammers head to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland on
Saturday and the ex-Liverpool winger thinks they can maintain their
challenge for a European spot. "We have to look at each game as it comes.
It's a big thing for us, Christmas, hopefully we can get lucky with injuries
and suspensions," said the 30-year-old. "We had a difficult year last year,
found it hard and were sucked in (to the relegation scrap) so this year
we're playing with confidence. "Selection gets hard and it's one the manager
would like because he's never really had it. Everyone is fighting for their
place and the step up in quality has been good this year."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WOULD RON VLAAR BE A QUALITY REPLACEMENT FOR WINSTON REID?
By S J Chandos 14 Dec 2014 at 13:00
West Ham till I Die
The contract situation with Winston Reid continues to rumble on. At this
stage, the obvious conclusion to be drawn is that Reid is running down his
contract to secure a lucrative Bosman move. So, the £60k contract offer
remains on the table and the club must seriously contemplate the worst case
scenerio and act decisively to line up a replacement, either in January or
more likely when Reid's current deal expires next June. A number of possible
names have already been linked as a possible replacement, including Celtic's
Virgil Diijk and Austrian international duo, Aleksandar Dragovic and Martin
Hinteregger. All three are promising, young centre-backs, with the potential
to make a major contribution to the future success of the club.
However, there may be another possibility that the club might consider.
According to the transfermarkt website Villa's powerful centre-back, Ron
Vlaar, is in the final year of his contract, which is due to expire on 30
June 2015. In fact, Vlaar's contractual position directly mirror's that of
our own Winston Reid. At 29 years of age, Vlaar is at the peak of his career
and would bring a wealth of experience to central defence. A current Dutch
international, he is a dominant figure, who leads by example. You can never
have enough leaders on the pitch and Vlaar is certainly that. He would
marshall the rearguard magnificently and pass on valuable experience to the
likes of Tomkins and emerging youngsters like Burke and Oxford. Allied to
that, a player of Vlaar's international experience would most definitely be
a positive addition should the club qualify for European competition season
in 2015-16.
I have previously made the point that no player is, or can ever be, bigger
than the club. If a player wants to try his luck elsewhere then West Ham
must set themselves the targets of (a) getting the best deal for the exiting
player and (b) signing a replacement who ideally represents an upgrade in
quality. It could be argued that Vlaar is an upgrade on Reid and would
significantly strengthen our defensive and leadership capacity. He is also
the type of all-action and committed footballer that West Ham fans
traditionally idolise. Could West Ham land Vlaar? Well, there is bound to be
a lot of interest both in the PL and abroad. And he can, of course, sign a
pre-contract deal with a overseas club from January 2015. However, he is the
type of player that an aspiring/upwardly mobile club like the Hammers should
be targeting, especially in view of the significant improvements achieved so
far this season.
Of course, a lot depends on Reid and the PL club's supposedly tracking him.
Will they bid in January or will they seek to capture him on a Bosman next
summer? Of course, there is the very real possibility that Reid is also
lining up a pre-contract deal to move to one of the major European leagues.
In which case, he is effectively going nowhere until the end of the season.
But that might not be too much of a problem if we could snap up a player
like Vlaar on a similiar Bosman deal. It might even be preferable, because
the defensive change could then be made in pre-season to minimise any
disruption and bed-in a new defensive unit.
So, is Ron Vlaar the type of centre-back that West Ham should be looking at
as a replacement for Winston Reid? Is he a realistic target, especially
financially, seeing as he is apparently in the final year of his contract at
Villa? If not, who would be a better option?
SJ. Chandos
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham flop Modibo Maiga facing Upton Park return after going AWOL during
Metz loan
Dec 14, 2014 11:14 By Steve Goodman
The 27-year-old striker failed to turn up for the Ligue 1 clash against
Marseille with Metz chiefs considering cutting his short his loan spell
The Mirror
West Ham flop Modibo Maiga has been made to sweat on his future after going
AWOL while out on loan, reports Steve Goodman in the Sunday People. The Mali
striker is at Metz, but the French club could ship him back to Upton Park
for missing their game last Sunday. Metz chiefs carpeted the 27-year-old
following the 3-1 loss to Marseille. Maiga also missed training on Tuesday.
"Modibo Maiga had a hearing on Thursday with Metz's disciplinary board," a
club spokesman revealed. "He'll be told its decision about his punishment
midway through next week. "Maiga didn't turn up on Decemeber 7 in time to
catch the plane to Marseille. "The club was unable to contact him and had to
set out with just 17 players."
Maiga has made 31 Premier League appearances for the Hammers since his
£5million arrival from Sochaux in 2012. Under contract until 2016, he spent
the second half of last season at QPR.
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West Ham's Andy Carroll says his life of partying is over - but his
reputation was unfair anyway
Dec 14, 2014 10:55 By Dean Jones
The West Ham striker is trying to make himself an integral part of the side
after a long spell out with injury
The Mirror
Andy Carroll insists his party-boy reputation is unfair, writes Dean Jones
in the Sunday People. The West Ham striker is trying to change public
opinion of himself and become a pivotal part of Sam Allardyce's plans now
that he is fit again. But he reckons any wild days of partying were blown
out of proportion. Carroll, once pictured partying until 4am in Las Vegas 36
hours before his West Ham medical, said: "I did get a lot of stick but I
went out no more than other players. "It was just that I was seen – so I got
the label. Hopefully that has gone now." In an interview on Soccer AM,
Hammers team-mate Kevin Nolan backed him up. Nolan said: "People notice him
more because he is 6ft 6in and has got long hair. He sticks out in a crowd
whereas I can go into London and not be noticed or recognised."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons signings for the future in January
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are set for a quiet January but are hoping to sign "one or two
players for the future." However, apart from offering a broad outline of
possible plans the club are keeping their cards very close to their chest
on their January plans. The two Davids haven't had a January – either here
or at Birmingham City – when they haven't brought players in but with the
club flying this season all bases look covered. ClaretandHugh was told by a
source: "The squad is strong and January is a time for troubled clubs to try
finding players who can make a difference to their situation. "There's no
serious need to spend a lot of cash on players. Big clubs don't spend a lot
at this time. "It could be the club will invest in one two for the future
and terms for a young centre back subject to work permit are close to being
agreed. He's about six months away from the first team though." He added:
"There's also a possibility one may go and we might sign a replacement."
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Irons make big African tournament decision
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham WILL be sending a team of medics to the African Nations Cup to look
after Diafra Sakho, Cheik Kouyate and Alex Song tournament
A top source finally revealed today the decision had been made to ensure
against any cock-ups such as affected Sakho on his last international trip.
ClaretandHugh was told this morning: "That is now the plan and it will
happen. "We can't afford to take any chances at all with the health of our
players. If they are selected to go then they will have our medics with
them." The club has hinted regularly over recent weeks that they are likely
to send club medical staff and have now firmed up the decision. They will
hire medical professionals to travel with the players to ensure there is no
shortage of staff at the club itself should then need to. We were told: "We
understand the players' desire to take part but we have to make sure as far
as we can there is absolutely no threat to any of them."
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Bleaker and bleaker for Morrison
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Clart & Hugh
Ravel Morrison's days at the club now look well and truly sealed as the
national press at large pick up the "it's over" story we published
yesterday. Various newspapers are repeating that the club could now even
consider cancelling the 21 year old's contract at Upton Park after a
miserable loan spell at Cardiff City. And this morning a club source
revealed that although he hasn't been helped by a change of manager at the
Welsh club, manager Sam Allardyce had really hoped to see the player buckle
down and play for his West Ham future. Both he and the two owners had wanted
to see the midfielder fulfill his huge potential and return to the Boleyn
ready to rumble.
The club remain hopeful that they will receive an offer for the player in
January but we were told the only "marginal interest" may be from Celtic.
Should nothing come of that and Morrison remains at the club when next
month's transfer window closes, the Hammers seem bound to consider paying
up the remainder of his contract which runs out at the end of the year as
both sides move on.
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WHUFC.com
Kevin Nolan was impressed with another comeback but is desperate to break
the habit of conceding first
14.12.2014
Kevin Nolan hopes he has seen the last of West Ham United's rescue acts for
the time being, keen to get the Hammers firmly back on the front foot.
Following Saturday's 1-1 Barclays Premier League stalemate at Sunderland,
Sam Allardyce's men have now conceded the first goal in three successive
outings. Impressively, they have still managed to collect seven points in
the process, but skipper Nolan insists that falling behind is a habit they
need to shake and need to shake quickly. "It's something we've got to get
out of our systems," he said. "Once we get ahead I think we could be one of
those teams that can really start to punish sides. Gifting teams goals the
way we have in previous games is not what we're about and not a habit we
want to get into. "We've been fantastic coming from behind in the last three
games, but it's something we want to eradicate quickly, because in the
Premier League, sooner or later, teams are going to hold out or hit us on
the counter. "But you can't fault the lads' effort, their response or the
way we've been playing in the last few games. Three wins on the spin and
then obviously this draw makes it ten points out of 12. If you'd have given
us that a fortnight ago going into the Newcastle game, everyone would have
taken that."
While Nolan was hardly about to underestimate the value of a point away from
home, he still felt a tinge of disappointment that West Ham were not leaving
the Stadium of a Light with all three. He continued: "All in all you've got
to respect the point when you get it, you're never going to get an easy game
when you come away from home. I'm just a bit gutted that we had to come from
behind and through no fault of our own. "We're a bit disappointed with a few
major decisions that didn't go our way, especially the penalty, which got
their spirits up. The response from us was fantastic, again, and we could
have gone on to win it. I thought we dominated the game throughout the 90
minutes, but it wasn't to be. "You've got to respect the point, it's a tough
place to come. Everyone finds it tough when they come to Sunderland. They're
a good side and we had to respect that, so we're happy to leave with a
point."
Saturday's draw sees the Hammers unbeaten in four and a November defeat by
Everton is now the only blemish on a ten-game record that includes six wins
and three draws. Nolan is still smarting about that reverse at Goodison Park
and urged the Hammers to keep their latest undefeated sequence intact. "Even
that one defeat against Everton, we thoroughly deserved something out of
it," he added. "So we're very disappointed that we've got that on the
record, but it's now about trying to go as many games without defeat. "We've
got a few tough ones coming up, Leicester, who are fighting for their lives,
next week at home and then we've got Chelsea, who are flying high. They've
been fantastic, so we've got to go to Stamford Bridge and then Arsenal at
home. It's going to be an exciting Christmas and hopefully one that we'll be
celebrating."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stewart Downing delighted with West Ham form
Last Updated: 12/12/14 12:15pm
SSN
Stewart Downing says West Ham are loving being one of this season's surprise
packages after gatecrashing the Premier League top four.
The Hammers are fourth in the table and Downing reckons breaking the 'big
four' stranglehold on the Champions League places is important for the good
of football. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce spent a reported £31m in the summer
on the likes of Diafra Sahko, Cheikhou Kouyate and Aaron Cresswell but that
was dwarfed by the spending of Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.
"It's good, teams have spent a lot of money and people expected them to be
in the top four because of what they've spent but it doesn't always work
that way," Downing said.
"We have bought very well, the players coming in have settled well.
Sometimes you see players coming to the Premier League struggle to adapt.
It's a big plus for us."
Southampton and the Hammers have shocked the big clubs with their form
during the first half of the season and Downing says that is a good thing.
"I think it would be good for the league," he added. "If you looked at the
league at the minute you'd say it was false but we're there on merit, we've
done well and we've played some big teams and played them off the park on
the day. "We've beaten Liverpool and Manchester City and ground out a win
against Newcastle, which we would have lost last season. We have shown good
qualities." The Hammers head to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland on
Saturday and the ex-Liverpool winger thinks they can maintain their
challenge for a European spot. "We have to look at each game as it comes.
It's a big thing for us, Christmas, hopefully we can get lucky with injuries
and suspensions," said the 30-year-old. "We had a difficult year last year,
found it hard and were sucked in (to the relegation scrap) so this year
we're playing with confidence. "Selection gets hard and it's one the manager
would like because he's never really had it. Everyone is fighting for their
place and the step up in quality has been good this year."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WOULD RON VLAAR BE A QUALITY REPLACEMENT FOR WINSTON REID?
By S J Chandos 14 Dec 2014 at 13:00
West Ham till I Die
The contract situation with Winston Reid continues to rumble on. At this
stage, the obvious conclusion to be drawn is that Reid is running down his
contract to secure a lucrative Bosman move. So, the £60k contract offer
remains on the table and the club must seriously contemplate the worst case
scenerio and act decisively to line up a replacement, either in January or
more likely when Reid's current deal expires next June. A number of possible
names have already been linked as a possible replacement, including Celtic's
Virgil Diijk and Austrian international duo, Aleksandar Dragovic and Martin
Hinteregger. All three are promising, young centre-backs, with the potential
to make a major contribution to the future success of the club.
However, there may be another possibility that the club might consider.
According to the transfermarkt website Villa's powerful centre-back, Ron
Vlaar, is in the final year of his contract, which is due to expire on 30
June 2015. In fact, Vlaar's contractual position directly mirror's that of
our own Winston Reid. At 29 years of age, Vlaar is at the peak of his career
and would bring a wealth of experience to central defence. A current Dutch
international, he is a dominant figure, who leads by example. You can never
have enough leaders on the pitch and Vlaar is certainly that. He would
marshall the rearguard magnificently and pass on valuable experience to the
likes of Tomkins and emerging youngsters like Burke and Oxford. Allied to
that, a player of Vlaar's international experience would most definitely be
a positive addition should the club qualify for European competition season
in 2015-16.
I have previously made the point that no player is, or can ever be, bigger
than the club. If a player wants to try his luck elsewhere then West Ham
must set themselves the targets of (a) getting the best deal for the exiting
player and (b) signing a replacement who ideally represents an upgrade in
quality. It could be argued that Vlaar is an upgrade on Reid and would
significantly strengthen our defensive and leadership capacity. He is also
the type of all-action and committed footballer that West Ham fans
traditionally idolise. Could West Ham land Vlaar? Well, there is bound to be
a lot of interest both in the PL and abroad. And he can, of course, sign a
pre-contract deal with a overseas club from January 2015. However, he is the
type of player that an aspiring/upwardly mobile club like the Hammers should
be targeting, especially in view of the significant improvements achieved so
far this season.
Of course, a lot depends on Reid and the PL club's supposedly tracking him.
Will they bid in January or will they seek to capture him on a Bosman next
summer? Of course, there is the very real possibility that Reid is also
lining up a pre-contract deal to move to one of the major European leagues.
In which case, he is effectively going nowhere until the end of the season.
But that might not be too much of a problem if we could snap up a player
like Vlaar on a similiar Bosman deal. It might even be preferable, because
the defensive change could then be made in pre-season to minimise any
disruption and bed-in a new defensive unit.
So, is Ron Vlaar the type of centre-back that West Ham should be looking at
as a replacement for Winston Reid? Is he a realistic target, especially
financially, seeing as he is apparently in the final year of his contract at
Villa? If not, who would be a better option?
SJ. Chandos
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham flop Modibo Maiga facing Upton Park return after going AWOL during
Metz loan
Dec 14, 2014 11:14 By Steve Goodman
The 27-year-old striker failed to turn up for the Ligue 1 clash against
Marseille with Metz chiefs considering cutting his short his loan spell
The Mirror
West Ham flop Modibo Maiga has been made to sweat on his future after going
AWOL while out on loan, reports Steve Goodman in the Sunday People. The Mali
striker is at Metz, but the French club could ship him back to Upton Park
for missing their game last Sunday. Metz chiefs carpeted the 27-year-old
following the 3-1 loss to Marseille. Maiga also missed training on Tuesday.
"Modibo Maiga had a hearing on Thursday with Metz's disciplinary board," a
club spokesman revealed. "He'll be told its decision about his punishment
midway through next week. "Maiga didn't turn up on Decemeber 7 in time to
catch the plane to Marseille. "The club was unable to contact him and had to
set out with just 17 players."
Maiga has made 31 Premier League appearances for the Hammers since his
£5million arrival from Sochaux in 2012. Under contract until 2016, he spent
the second half of last season at QPR.
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West Ham's Andy Carroll says his life of partying is over - but his
reputation was unfair anyway
Dec 14, 2014 10:55 By Dean Jones
The West Ham striker is trying to make himself an integral part of the side
after a long spell out with injury
The Mirror
Andy Carroll insists his party-boy reputation is unfair, writes Dean Jones
in the Sunday People. The West Ham striker is trying to change public
opinion of himself and become a pivotal part of Sam Allardyce's plans now
that he is fit again. But he reckons any wild days of partying were blown
out of proportion. Carroll, once pictured partying until 4am in Las Vegas 36
hours before his West Ham medical, said: "I did get a lot of stick but I
went out no more than other players. "It was just that I was seen – so I got
the label. Hopefully that has gone now." In an interview on Soccer AM,
Hammers team-mate Kevin Nolan backed him up. Nolan said: "People notice him
more because he is 6ft 6in and has got long hair. He sticks out in a crowd
whereas I can go into London and not be noticed or recognised."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons signings for the future in January
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are set for a quiet January but are hoping to sign "one or two
players for the future." However, apart from offering a broad outline of
possible plans the club are keeping their cards very close to their chest
on their January plans. The two Davids haven't had a January – either here
or at Birmingham City – when they haven't brought players in but with the
club flying this season all bases look covered. ClaretandHugh was told by a
source: "The squad is strong and January is a time for troubled clubs to try
finding players who can make a difference to their situation. "There's no
serious need to spend a lot of cash on players. Big clubs don't spend a lot
at this time. "It could be the club will invest in one two for the future
and terms for a young centre back subject to work permit are close to being
agreed. He's about six months away from the first team though." He added:
"There's also a possibility one may go and we might sign a replacement."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons make big African tournament decision
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham WILL be sending a team of medics to the African Nations Cup to look
after Diafra Sakho, Cheik Kouyate and Alex Song tournament
A top source finally revealed today the decision had been made to ensure
against any cock-ups such as affected Sakho on his last international trip.
ClaretandHugh was told this morning: "That is now the plan and it will
happen. "We can't afford to take any chances at all with the health of our
players. If they are selected to go then they will have our medics with
them." The club has hinted regularly over recent weeks that they are likely
to send club medical staff and have now firmed up the decision. They will
hire medical professionals to travel with the players to ensure there is no
shortage of staff at the club itself should then need to. We were told: "We
understand the players' desire to take part but we have to make sure as far
as we can there is absolutely no threat to any of them."
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Bleaker and bleaker for Morrison
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on December 14, 2014 in Whispers
Clart & Hugh
Ravel Morrison's days at the club now look well and truly sealed as the
national press at large pick up the "it's over" story we published
yesterday. Various newspapers are repeating that the club could now even
consider cancelling the 21 year old's contract at Upton Park after a
miserable loan spell at Cardiff City. And this morning a club source
revealed that although he hasn't been helped by a change of manager at the
Welsh club, manager Sam Allardyce had really hoped to see the player buckle
down and play for his West Ham future. Both he and the two owners had wanted
to see the midfielder fulfill his huge potential and return to the Boleyn
ready to rumble.
The club remain hopeful that they will receive an offer for the player in
January but we were told the only "marginal interest" may be from Celtic.
Should nothing come of that and Morrison remains at the club when next
month's transfer window closes, the Hammers seem bound to consider paying
up the remainder of his contract which runs out at the end of the year as
both sides move on.
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