Hammers to host Open Academy Trials
WHUFC.com
West Ham United are to hold Open Academy Trials for aspiring footballers
aged between U6 and U13
27.01.2015
West Ham United are to hold Open Academy Trials for aspiring footballers
aged between U6 and U13. The Academy of Football has long been considered
one of the finest in the world when it comes to discovering and developing
not only good footballers, but good people. Throughout their 120-year
history, the Hammers have put huge value on producing home-grown players who
have gone on to glory with Club and country. England's 1966 FIFA World
Cup-winning captain Bobby Moore and goalscoring heroes Geoff Hurst and
Martin Peters all came through the West Ham ranks. In more recent decades,
England stars Joe Cole, Rio Ferdinand, Michael Carrick and Frank Lampard
have all graduated from the Academy of Football, while current first-team
players Mark Noble and James Tomkins also learnt their trade at Little
Heath. Open Academy Trials will be held in the U6, U7, U8, U10, U12 and U13
age-groups. "West Ham United has always taken great pride in producing its
own players and will continue to do so in the future," said Academy head of
recruitment Dave Hunt. "The Academy of Football and the development of
home-grown potential first-team players of the future remain an integral
part of the Club. "The Club invests millions of pounds every year in the
Academy, which has the highest Category One status, giving young players the
best possible opportunity to develop their talent. "In our experience,
previous Open Academy Trials have unearthed stars of the future and we are
sure we will discover a great deal of talent again this time around."
To apply for your child to take part in the Open Academy Trials, please
email openacademytrials@westhamunited.co.uk for an automated response
including an application form.
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'We will try to do it the hard way'
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce says West Ham United will have to rise to the challenge away
from home again in the FA Cup
27.01.2015
Sam Allardyce says West Ham United will have to rise to the challenge away
from home again in the FA Cup after being drawn at West Bromwich Albion in
the fifth round. The Hammers were pulled out of the hat second for the third
straight round in this year's competition, following ties at Everton and
Bristol City. Having drawn at Goodison Park - before prevailing in a
thrilling replay penalty shootout at the Boleyn Ground - and won narrowly at
Ashton Gate, Big Sam's side will have to show their resilience and ability
on enemy territory yet again over the weekend of 14/15 February. "It is sad
we have been drawn away from home again, but we have won two rounds and will
have to try and do it the hard way," said the manager. West Ham have lost
just three of the 12 away matches they have played this season - at
Manchester United, Everton and Chelsea in the Barclays Premier League - and
won 2-1 at The Hawthorns on 2 December.
The Hammers are also unbeaten in four previous FA Cup ties at the home of
the Baggies. West Ham drew 1-1 in the first-ever meeting between the two
clubs in the first round before prevailing 3-0 in a second replay in January
1913, then drew 1-1 in the third round on their way to winning the trophy in
1980. In all, West Ham and West Brom have been drawn together five times in
the FA Cup, with the Londoners winning through on four occasions - the most
recent being a 2-0 third-round win at The Hawthorns on 2 January 1993, when
Clive Allen and Mark Robson got the goals. A former West Brom player and
assistant manager himself, Big Sam would love nothing better than to see
West Ham overcome his old club and continue down the Road to Wembley.
However, he knows a quarter-final place will not come easy against Tony
Pulis's side, who earned a 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at the Boleyn
Ground on New Year's Day. "It is every player and every manager's dream to
win the FA Cup," the manager explained. "As time goes by you realise how
difficult it is and it comes and goes over many years. There are times when
it gets close and goes away again. "In this competition, you need a bit of
luck. Whether it be the draw going through the rounds, it can be a
refereeing decision, it could be a lucky bounce, or an own goal. Those sort
of things need to go in your favour. "Players are going to need to be at
their best in the FA Cup, if you have an off day it is over. It would be
fantastic for me, to walk out at Wembley and take your team there is what
you do the job for really."
*Ticket details and broadcast selections for the FA Cup fifth-round tie at
West Bromwich Albion are yet to be confirmed. Keep a close eye on whufc.com
and our Official Twitter feed for details.
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Heartbreak for Kouyate & Senegal
WHUFC.com
Senegal were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday
27.01.2015
Cheikhou Kouyate and his Senegal side suffered the heartbreak of an early
elimination from the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday.
Needing a point to secure their progress from the group stage, they came up
short against Algeria as goals from Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez and Nabil
Bentaleb, of Tottenham Hotspur, secured a 2-0 win for the North Africans.
With Ghana coming from behind to dramatically defeat South Africa 2-1 in the
group's other concluding fixture, it meant Senegal dropped from top to
third, two points behind both Ghana and Algeria. Senegal started the
tournament promisingly, with Kouyate starting in a 2-1 win over Ghana. The
Hammers No8 was then a used substitute in their 1-1 draw against South
Africa and returned to the starting XI against Algeria, but was unable to
help the Lions of Teranga get the result they craved.
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Diafra Sakho: Senegal coach angry at West Ham playing striker
BBC.co.uk
2015 Africa Cup of Nations: Senegal v Algeria
Date: Tuesday, 27 January.
Time: 18:00 GMT.
Venue: Estadio De Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
West Ham "set a dangerous precedent" by playing striker Diafra Sakho at the
weekend, according to Senegal national coach Alain Giresse.
Sakho, 25, withdrew from Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations squad earlier this
month because of a back injury, but played for the Hammers on Sunday. "When
you cannot fly for six weeks and then suddenly you're playing a football
game, there must be miraculous medicine in England," said Giresse. "I'm
surprised to learn he played."
Sakho had been selected in his country's 23-man squad before withdrawing
ahead of the tournament, which began on 17 January. Senegal wanted to assess
their player, but was told he could not fly because of his injury. However,
Sakho came on in the 57th minute of West Ham's FA Cup fourth-round tie at
League One side Bristol City and scored the only goal. "This sets a
dangerous precedent because you're going to have players claiming they
cannot catch planes to Africa but who can still play football," added
Giresse. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has defended his decision to pick Sakho,
and insisted he was unable to fly. "We had to drive him down in a limo on
Saturday but other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just
see how he goes," Allardyce told Talksport. Speaking on Sunday, Sakho said
he had been "saddened" and "angered" by criticism of his absence from the
tournament. Senegal have beaten Ghana 2-1 and drew 1-1 with South Africa in
the Africa Cup of Nations and will qualify for the quarter-finals if they
avoid a defeat against Algeria on Tuesday.
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Mystery club makes Enner Valencia approach
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
An unknown club has made an enquiry regarding Enner Valencia and a potential
swap deal. According to the well-placed KUMB source an unnamed club has
approached West Ham with view to landing the Ecuador international, who only
arrived in east London back in July 2014.
West Ham are currently negotiating with the unknown club with view to a
potential player plus cash deal, according to our source - who confirmed
tonight that whilst a deal is far from certain, discussions have already
taken place between the two parties. Valencia's career at the Boleyn has
been hit and miss so far. Whilst he hit the ground running with technically
excellent goals against Hull and Stoke, he has struggled to maintain a place
in Sam Allardyce's first team. The Ecuador international, who cost West Ham
circa £12.5million when signing from Pachuca last summer has thus far scored
just four goals in his 23 appearances for the Hammers.
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Here we go again!
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce admits that he would have preferred a home draw in the fifth
round of the FA Cup - but wasn't too disappointed with the outcome. West
Ham's reward for beating Everton and Bristol City is a trip to the Hawthorns
where fellow Premier League side West Brom await. The Hammers have of course
already won at Albion this season, having secured a 2-1 victory back in
December. "It is sad we have been drawn away from home again, but we have
won two rounds and will have to try and do it the hard way," admitted
Allardyce - who also feels this could be his year to finally lift the
coveted old trophy. "In this competition you need a bit of luck," he mused.
"Whether it be the draw going through the rounds, a refereeing decision, a
lucky bounce or an own goal - those sort of things need to go in your
favour. "But it is every player and every manager's dream to win the FA Cup.
As time goes by you realise how difficult it is. There are times when it
gets close and goes away again. "Players are going to need to be at their
best; if you have an off day, it's over. It would be fantastic for me - to
take your team to Wembley is what you do the job for really."
West Ham face Albion on the weekend of February 14/15. The full draw for the
fifth round of the FA Cup, as made last night, is as follows:
Crystal Palace v Liverpool or Bolton Wanderers
Arsenal v Middlesbrough
Aston Villa v Leicester City
West Bromwich Albion v West Ham United
Bradford City v Sunderland or Fulham
Blackburn Rovers v Stoke City
Derby County v Reading
Preston or Sheffield Utd v Man Utd or Cambridge
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Reid eyes tricky Hawthorns trip
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Winston Reid believes West Ham will have their work cut out when they face
West Bromwich Albion in the fifth round of the FA Cup.
The Kiwi defender, speaking via his latest column for Fanbookz, admitted
that he would have preferred an easier draw but in no way views the visit to
the Hawthorns as an insurmountable task. "Last night we were drawn against
West Brom away in the next round," he said. "Ideally you'd like a home
fixture but we've got to produce a similar performance to those we've had
away from home this season in order to win. "It's part of the cup, and
they've improved since Tony Pulis came in so it's always going to be tricky
playing against his teams."
Reid - who earned the Man of the Match award for his performance against
Bristol City on Sunday - was nonetheless delighted at securing a place in
the next round, having come through the tricky Ashton Gate tie. "We were put
under pressure and we had to make a few saves, a couple of goal line
clearances and we knew it was going to be tough," he surmised. "We were
restricted to a few chances and we took one of them; it was just that extra
little bit of quality that edged it for us. "Getting man of the match
topped off the performance. But for me it's always about the team – we're
playing well, and my performances are good but you need your team-mates to
help out as it's obviously a team sport."
* There was no mention of Reid's contract situation in this week's column.
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Ladies seeking new Chairman
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham Utd Ladies FC are inviting open applications from any parties
interested in becoming their new club Chairman and taking them to the next
level. The Ladies are managed by West Ham Utd legend Julian Dicks and
currently play in the FA Womens Premier League (WPL), just one promotion
away from the prestigious Womens' Super League (WSL). The Hammers ladies
currently sit fifth place in the WPL, whilst the reserve squad are riding
high in second place in their respective league. The club is fortunate to
have access to Premier League facilities at West Ham United's Chadwell Heath
training base, whilst also boasting a very strong junior set-up. First team
manager, Julian Dicks, believes the club has the potential to challenge for
promotion and reach the WSL "We are not far off, and even a moderate
financial injection could make a real difference," he said. "I think
someone with a strong business background, maybe a West Ham fan, could
really help take this club places." Previous chairman Ray Wood recently
stepped down from the role but is currently assisting the club until a
suitable replacement is found. The club would love to hear from someone
(maybe a West Ham fan) with a strong business background who thinks they
could help the club achieve its ambitions. All interested parties are
invited to contact the club at whulfcchairman@hotmail.com with details of
their previous experience and reasons for wanting to take on the role.
* West Ham Ladies captain Stacey Little was a recent guest on the KUMB West
Ham Podcast. You may listen to that episode - which also featured West Ham
United's attacking coach Teddy Sheringham - here.
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The OS is not West Ham's stadium, says Athletics chief
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
UK Athletics chief executive Niels de Vos says he wants the Olympic Stadium
to be "the beating heart of Athletics" for many years to come. Despite the
Hammers being granted first dibs at the stadium during the football season
from 2016/17 - a requirement of participation in the Premier League - during
the summer months, a whole host of non-football-related events will be
staged there. Some of those events will include Athletics meetings, with the
sport having been granted the right to stage events at the Olympic Stadium
for one month each year for the next 50 years. de Vos, speaking in an
interview with the Standard revealed that he viewed the Olympics Stadium as
the sport's own Wembley Stadium - and expects the legacy of the 2012 summer
Olympic Games to be centred on the new home of West Ham United FC. "For us,
this is not West Ham's stadium, this is Athletics' stadium," he said. "For
that month each year it is just that. We're not the summer tenant. We want
to make it an amazing place for people to do the sport and watch it. "We
want the Olympic Stadium to be the beating heart of athletics. It's not the
only place for the sport, of course, but all roads lead there and it has to
be a very physical illustration of the sport at all levels. "We need that to
be our Wembley, to be our Wimbledon. If you're an up-and-coming athlete now,
you need to think, 'I want to be running on the Olympic track in the Olympic
Stadium'. "That's a responsibility that's going to weigh pretty heavy on us.
We've won the right to host for every month every year for 50 years. We need
to make that a month the nation stops for athletics. "We made a fuss to keep
this as we need a national home of athletics - so we need to make sure we
make the most of the opportunity. "
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Another one bites the dust
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 27th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
The cull of West Ham's under-achieving youth squad continued today as
midfielder Ben Marlow bade farewell to the club. The 19-year-old midfielder,
who usually plays in a central role tweeted his farewells having been told
he will not be offered a new contract at the end of the season.
Unfortunately my time at West Ham United has come to an end," he wrote. "I
would like to thank them for the ten years I have been there, I've learnt a
lot and have many good memories. "Now it's time to move on and look to the
future, wherever it may be. Hopefully it will be the start of a new era and
better things will come."
Marlow, who is in the third and final year of his scholarship at Chadwell
Heath joins the likes of Kieran Bywater in leaving the club this season.
Others, such as Elliot Lee and Danny Whitehead are also widely tipped to
move on as Academy Director Terry Westley continues his revamp of the
Chadwell Heath set-up. West Ham's Development Squad are currently bottom of
the Under 21 Premier League table with eight points from 12 games, having
won just twice in the league this season.
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WE WOULDN'T SWAP VALENCIA FOR REMY.... WOULD WE? COULD WE?
By Iain Dale 27 Jan 2015 at 20:27
West Ham Till I Die
There are reports tonight that Chelsea have contacted West Ham about a swap
deal involving Enner Valencia and Loic Remy and £5 million coming West Ham's
way. Now that's quite an interesting one.
I certainly don't think we have seen the best of Enner Valencia yet, but we
have seen flashes of what he can do and what we bought him for. However, I
don't think even he would maintain that he has hit the ground running in the
way that Diafra Sakho has. But in many ways, so what? He's more than two
years younger than Remy and he was always going to take time to gel. Lest we
forget, he played a big part in us getting into the top four earlier in the
season.
I've always rated Loic Remy. He has scored goals wherever he has played. We
tried to sign him many years ago but he decided to stay put in France. Since
then he has played for QPR, Newcastle and Chelsea, making 50 appearances and
scoring 22 goals. He's scored several against us. In many ways a front three
of Carroll, Sakho and Remy would be mouthwatering. And what competition
there would be with two up front. It would be the strongest front line we
have had since the days of McAvennie and Cottee.
But it isn't going to happen for one very simple reason.
Under FIFA rules a player can only play for two separate clubs in a season.
Remy has already appeared for twice for QPR and eight times for Chelsea.
Article 5 Paragraph 3 of the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of
Players would be invoked by FIFA. This rule dictates that a player can be
registered with a maximum of three clubs during one season but can only play
for two of them — with the sole exception of a move between clubs with
overlapping seasons. I am assuming this FIFA rule still applies, although I
can't find any mention of it after 2011.
But even if this rule didn't exist, would you even entertain the notion of
swapping Enner Valencia for Loic Remy?
UPDATE: Cheikou Kouyate will be back at Upton Park very soon after Senegal
were eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations today.
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Senegalese want West Ham's Diafra Sakho banned and Hammers kicked out of FA
Cup in injury row
Jan 27, 2015 22:30 By John Cross
Striker's homeland demand FIFA action as medical expert stops him flying -
including to the Africa Cup of Nations - but lets him travel to games by
road
The Mirror
Diafra Sakho faces a lengthy ban after Senegal football chiefs made a formal
complaint to FIFA. West Ham striker Sakho was absent from his homeland's
short-lived Africa Cup of Nations campaign, which ended on Tuesday with a
group-stage exit, after suffering a back injury.
But Senegalese FA chiefs were furious that he was fit enough to play - and
score the winner - in Sunday's FA Cup tie at Bristol City.
They have contacted world football's governing body FIFA demanding action -
and that could see him suspended from playing for West Ham at Liverpool on
Saturday and in further games. Although Senegal are out, FIFA have the power
to stop Sakho appearing for his club for the duration of the tournament in
Equatorial Guinea - which ends on February 8 - but they could impose an even
longer ban and a heavy fine.
Senegal fans are even demanding Sam Allardyce's men are kicked out of the FA
Cup, where they are scheduled to face West Brom in the last 16.
A FIFA spokesman told Mirror Sport on Tuesday night: "We can confirm that we
have been contacted by the Senegal FA concerning this matter. The matter is
now pending with our services. We cannot comment further at this stage."
FIFA will investigate and pass on their findings to the Football
Association, who are aware of the complaint. West Ham stressed on Tuesday
that they had not broken any rules, and they are adamant that Sakho will be
picked for this weekend's trip to Liverpool. While the rest of the team flew
to Bristol, Hammers' top-scorer Sakho was driven there in a luxury Mercedes
saloon car to protect his back. He will make a 450-mile road trip to
Liverpool by the same method. West Ham supplied a medical report - carried
out by an independent specialist - which stated Sakho would be unable to fly
for six weeks. Senegal were therefore unable to select him in their 23-man
squad for the finals. But, three weeks later, he is playing in matches, and
that has enraged his countrymen. West Ham stressed that the independent
specialist cleared him to play at Ashton Gate on Sunday, but insisted he
could not fly to Bristol because it would make the back injury worse.
The Londoners told Mirror Sport they invited Senegal to perform their own
medical inspection but, to the best of their knowledge, they did not do so.
They also say they have been inconvenienced, because Sakho has missed four
games with the injury he originally suffered while on international duty.
Senegal FA general secretary Victor Cisse was contacted by Mirror Sport on
Tuesday, and the organisation is considering its next step. Sakho tweeted
his anger over the row on Monday after an anti-West Ham campaign was
launched on social media in Senegal. Senegal's head coach Alain Giresse said
after Sakho's FA Cup winner on Sunday it "set a dangerous precedent" that
West Ham could claim he couldn't fly to matches but could take part in them.
Giresse added: "When you cannot fly for six weeks and then suddenly you're
playing a football game, there must be miraculous medicine in England."
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Matt Jarvis wanted by Cardiff after falling out of favour at Upton Park
Jan 27, 2015 20:55 By Darren Lewis
Winger signed from Wolves in a £10.75m deal three years ago has made just
six appearances this season and could be bound for the Championship
The Mirror
Cardiff have made an approach to West Ham for winger Matt Jarvis. The
28-year-old wide man was signed from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a
£10.75million deal three years ago. He has two and a half years remaining on
his contract at Upton Park. He has fallen out of favour with boss Sam
Allardyce, however, and has made just six appearances so far this season. It
is understood that the Irons would be prepared to allow Jarvis to leave the
club if they were to get the right offer. The winger has also been a target
for West Brom boss Tony Pulis, but he has since moved for the cheaper Callum
McManaman at Wigan. West Ham are in the process of offloading a number of
fringe players in an attempt to free up space on their wage bill to land
Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher.
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West Ham hope to catch a break in Stephen Hendrie pursuit as they go back in
for Hamilton defender
Jan 27, 2015 19:04 By Darren Lewis
The Hammers are back in for the defender after Hamilton vice-chairman Ronnie
McDonald accused Big Sam's side of dragging their heels over an offer
The Mirror
West Ham are hoping they have not snookered themselves in their bid to land
highly-regarded Hamilton left-back Stephen Hendrie.
MirrorFootball revealed the Irons' interest in the 20-year-old defender last
week. Talks with the Scottish Premiership side looked to be progressing last
week despite Hendrie being out of contract in the summer. Negotiations then
collapsed, however, after Hamilton vice-chairman Ronnie McDonald accused
West Ham of dragging their heels after an initial offer. The east Londoners
have since re-established contact and West Ham are hoping to have the
defender - a Scotland Under-21 international - in London for a medical later
this week.
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Senegal and West Ham at odds over Diafra Sakho and striker's AFCON snub
Jan 27, 2015 13:57 By Ben Burrows
The 25-year-old withdrew from the squad prior to the tournament with injury
only to go on and score the winner for the Hammers this weekend
The Mirror
West Ham have been slammed by Senegal's national coach for playing striker
Diafra Sakho. The 25-year-old withdrew from his national side's squad for
this month's African Cup of Nations with a back injury. Senegal were keen to
assess the striker for themselves but were apparently told he could not fly
due to the nature of his injury. But then on Sunday Sakho came off the bench
in the Hammers' FA Cup fourth round tie with Bristol City and scored the
winner. Senegal coaxch Alain Giresse has been left furious with the whole
affair and claims West Ham have set "a dangerous precedent" with their
actions. "When you cannot fly for six weeks and then suddenly you're playing
a football game, there must be miraculous medicine in England," he said.
"I'm surprised to learn he played." He added: "This sets a dangerous
precedent because you're going to have players claiming they cannot catch
planes to Africa but who can still play football."
Boss Sam Allardyce has defended his player and his decision to play him at
Ashton Gate on Sunday. "We had to drive him down in a limo on Saturday but
other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just see how he
goes," he told talkSPORT.
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West Ham flop Ravel Morrison flying to Rome on Wednesday to seal summer
switch to Lazio
Jan 27, 2015 13:52 By Tom Hopkinson
The former Man United bad boy has made little impact at Upton Park and looks
set to join the Serie A giants when he contract expires
The Mirror
Ravel Morrison will fly to Rome tomorrow to agree terms on a summer switch
to Lazio. West Ham have finally given the 21-year-old midfielder permission
to travel to Italy to conclude negotiations on his proposed move and he is
set to sign for the Serie A side within the next 36 hours. Portuguese side
Sporting Lisbon were also keen to sign the striker on a pre-contract this
month, but he prefers the move to Lazio, who are further down the line in
their negotiations with his representatives. Morrison, whose £15,000-a-week
contract at Upton Park expires at the end of June, will join Stefano Piolo's
side as a free agent three turbulent years after joining West Ham from
Manchester United. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce was confident he could tame
the youngster when he signed him in 2012 after Sir Alex Ferguson's patience
finally snapped but, like his close pal, he has failed to get the best out
of the player for any sustained period of time. A parting of the ways became
inevitable when Morrison's loan spell at Cardiff was terminated early by
Bluebirds boss Russell Slade and when the former England youth international
returned to West Hamhis relationship with the club finally hit rock bottom.
He took a dispute over unpaid wages for December to the players' union - the
club are understood to have held back £60,000 over an accumulation of fines
- with the PFA finally negotiating a settlement 11 days ago. Morrison has
been training with West Ham's Under-21s but he will fly to Rome tomorrow
buoyed by the fact that a move to Lazio in July will give him the chance to
resurrect his career.
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Fletcher deal hitting snags
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are refusing to rush into the Darren Fletcher deal as more and more
behind-the-scenes doubts emerge. Major 'players' inside the club are cooling
on signing the 30 year old who is believed to want a three and a half year
deal on £60k a week. As previously reported on ClaretandHugh, should the
club decide to move in Fletcher will face a seriously stern medical along
with general health checks but tonight things aren't looking great for a
deal. The full impact of such a deal is focusing minds although manager Sam
Allardyce is still hopeful he will get a successful outcome. ClaretandHugh
was told exclusively by a top source: "We are not rushing into this at all
as we have severe doubts about giving this player a 3.5 year contract on big
wages. We want younger, hungrier players on lower wages.
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Chelsea Valencia offer revealed
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Chelsea have made an inquiry for Enner Valencia in a swap deal involving
Loic Remy plus £5 million. Speculation on forums has been circulating all
day that a top Premier League club is keen to do a deal with one of the
Hammers first teamers. And ClaretandHugh has been told over the last few
minutes that Valencia is indeed the player in question and it's Jose
Mourinho who is behind the move. And we understand that Remy is the bait
being offered in a deal which would see Chelsea also part with £5 million
after triggering his £10.5 million release clause from Queens Park Rangers
last year. Hammers insiders insist they won't entertain a player plus cash
deal and speaking to Claretandhugh one said: "We'll be glad when this window
closes." However, it would be wrong to 'never say never' but at this stage
it looks unlikely despite the inquiry valuing the Ecuadorian at around £3
million more than we paid for the player.
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Irons reject offers for stars
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham's squad has been attracting attention from across the Premier
League with several offers having been made for first team members. But the
club has resisted all overtures and this afternoon insisted it's very
unlikely anybody will be sold despite keen interest. Speculation of a deal
involving a player swap plus cash started earlier today and although club
insiders are keeping names of those involved to themselves there was denial
that there had been much activity and interest behind the scenes. However, a
top insider told ClaretandHugh exclusively: "Nothing is likely to happen and
100 per cent not players plus cash. The quicker this window shuts the better
for us." Enner Valencia (pictured above) has been touted as interesting
Chelsea, Diafra Sakho has been regularly linked with Liverpool and Aaron
Cresswell has also been watched. However, our source declared: "There are
lots of offers, but we've turned them all down as we do not want to lose
players at this time."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
DG unworried by 'the Pulis effect'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold isn't worried about the 'Pulis effect' which has seen West Brom
go unbeaten since the Welshman took over at the Hawthorns.
Commenting on the fifth round FA Cup draw and describing the game as
"winnable" DG told ClaretandHugh: "I'm aware of their record took over and
he's a good manager but we will go there with loads of confidence. "We are
unbeaten in January and our form is good despite struggling at Bristol on
Saturday. The new manager effect is nothing new. It's sometimes a different
story when he's been there a few weeks though! "In my view we are well
capable of finishing the tie up there and if we have to do it under the
Upton Park lights so be it. "Tony and Sam are two dogged and very determined
managers and it will be tight but this could very easily be our year and I
go up there optimistic."
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Fletcher: The finances revealed!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Darren Fletcher will cost the Irons north of £50k a week in personal terms
if a deal is competed to take him to the club. And that means – should he
sign a three year deal – the Irons will be paying a minimum of £7.2 million
plus any signing on fees. However, the deal is likely to cost closer to £10
million if he get closer to the £60k a week which ClaretandHugh understand
he is earning currently. We have also received unconfirmed reports the
Hammers are trying to set up a six month deal initially that would allow
them to make an assessment of the player's fitness. Fletcher though is
believed to want a straightforward two year deal with a year's option or a
three year contract. The Hammers are ready to offer Fletcher a medical ahead
of personal negotiations but as yet he still hasn't responded to the club's
offers and Sam Allardyce has been quoted as saying that he doesn't know one
way or the other which way the deal will ultimately bounce. A source told
ClaretandHugh exclusively: " I understand it the personal terms are in
advance of £50k a week and probably closer to £60k. At the moment the player
is hesitant about what the club may be ready to do ahead of course of any
medical…and it would be a big one."
WHY!!!!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Adrian flies back to Spain
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 27, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham goal keeper Adrian has been given special permission to fly home to
Spain to spend some personal time with his family. Adrian was spotted by
eagle eyed West Ham fans boarding a Stansted Ryan Air flight to Seville on
Monday morning. He told fans at Stansted airport that he is due to return to
London on Thursday to resume training after agreeing some time off with
manager Sam Allardyce.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham return to rekindle transfer for Hamilton left back Stephen Hendrie
Hamilton left-back Stephen Hendrie is still a target for West Ham
Darren Fletcher could still join West Ham this January transfer window
30-year-old midfielder has also had offers from Valencia and West Brom
By SIMON JONES FOR MAILONLINE
PUBLISHED: 22:31, 27 January 2015 | UPDATED: 22:31, 27 January 2015
West Ham have revived their deal for Hamilton left back Stephen Hendrie. The
20-year-old is poised to fly down to London and undergo a medical this week
ahead of finalising terms. The move looked to be off last week when
Hamilton vice-chairman Ronnie McDonald criticised West Ham, however, David
Sullivan has smoothed over negotiations. Reading and Bournemouth have also
shown an interest in the Scotland Under 21 international but he had his
heart set on a move to Upton Park. West Ham left-back Dan Potts is
discussing a move to Blackpool while talks are continuing with Manchester
United midfielder Darren Fletcher who is available on a free. Manchester
United will allow the 30-year-old to leave and will contribute to his salary
but there is still some negotiating to be done to reach the desired
contract. It may take until the weekend for it to be resolved. Fletcher is
cured of his ulcerative colitis and is looking to make up for lost time with
his next move. The Scotland international is a popular figure at Old
Trafford but wants to play regular first team football.
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Wednesday, January 28
Tuesday, January 27
Daily WHUFC News - 27th January 2015
Hammers drawn at West Brom
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will travel to West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup fifth
round
26.01.2015
West Ham United have been drawn away at West Bromwich Albion in the fifth
round of the FA Cup. The Hammers will travel to the Hawthorns on the weekend
of 14/15 February in their bid for a quarter-final spot. Big Sam's men have
already triumphed once at the home of the Baggies this term, when Kevin
Nolan and James Tomkins hit the target to secure a 2-1 Barclays Premier
League victory in December. West Ham have defeated Everton and Bristol City
to reach this stage of the competition, while Tony Pulis' side have seen off
non-league Gateshead and Championship side Birmingham City so far. The
Hammers have been drawn against the Baggies on five previous occasions in
the FA Cup, winning four of those ties, including in the third round in 1980
- the year they won the competition for the third time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble aiming for Wembley return
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble would love nothing more than to reward West Ham United fans with
a return to Wembley
26.01.2015
Mark Noble is determined to reward the loyalty of his fellow West Ham United
fans by giving them a day out at Wembley. The lifelong Hammer has run out in
Claret and Blue at virtually every major stadium in the country, including a
2012 Championship Play-Off final victory over Blackpool at the Home of
Football. The No16 helped his boyhood Club win through to the last 16 of the
FA Cup at Bristol City on Sunday, meaning the Hammers are now just two
victories from a semi-final date at Wembley. "I wouldn't mind a trip to
Wembley," said the midfielder, who was not even born the last time West Ham
played in a major final at the national stadium back in the 1981 League Cup
final. "It will be a great occasion. The semis are there as well so we are
only two games away from a trip to Wembley, so hopefully we can do it this
time. "To be honest, in this FA Cup we have got as good a chance as anyone.
We have beaten some top teams this year already, so we can beat anyone on
our day. We'll look forward to the draw and see how we got on."
For Noble, an FA Cup semi-final would also give West Ham the opportunity to
erase the memory of last season's 9-0 aggregate defeat by Manchester City in
the last four of the League Cup. "Do you know what, I was only talking to
the boys on Saturday in training about that," Noble revealed. "I know we
lost 9-0 to City last season and that was the semis as well. "That is what I
mean, we had no squad last season, we had a lot of injured players and I
know we got smashed, but we did get to the semis last year. So it was good
to get through a tough cup game on Sunday and stay in the hat in the FA
Cup."
Noble and his team-mates will be hoping for a favourable fifth-round draw as
they hope to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since the 2010/11
season, when their hopes were ended by Stoke City. However, after overcoming
Everton on penalties and coming through a difficult examination at League
One promotion-chasers Bristol City, the 27-year-old insists West Ham have
nothing to fear. "That is the FA Cup for you, we knew it was going to be
tough. The days when you come to a League One team and walk all over them is
long gone. It isn't like that anymore. "They were playing against a Premier
League team, it was on TV, so they ran harder, tackled harder and wanted to
win more, so we just had to be stronger as a team. We kept a clean sheet and
won 1-0 in the end so it is on to the next round. "The clinical finish from
Diafra Sakho did for them in the end and I thought we were solid at the
back. We also had a little bit of luck with a couple of clearances off the
line. It was difficult when they have got four or five six-feet plus players
charging at you in the box, but I thought we handled it well to come away
from it with the win. "In these cup games it doesn't really matter how you
play as long as you win and we won."
As Noble mentioned, Sakho was West Ham's match-winner at Ashton Gate,
marking his return from three weeks out with a back injury in style by
heading home Andy Carroll's 81st-minute cross. With a tough run of Barclays
Premier League games to come, as well as the FA Cup fifth round, the
midfielder welcomed the timing of the striker's comeback. "He is having a
great season, he is a goal machine. He knows where the back of the net is
and he also knows where to be at the right time. We are over the moon to
have him back in the squad with us and we are going to need him for the
tough games to come."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley: "It was a very close game"
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley said there was very little between the Dev
Squad and the Saints
26.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said there was very little
difference between the Development Squad and Southampton in their 2-0 defeat
by the Saints. The Saints took an early lead following a defensive mix up
when Dom Gape's in swinging corner was left by everyone and crept in. The
win sees Southampton go top of the Barclays U21 Premier League, and they
sealed the victory with just seven minutes to go when Ryan Seager poked home
from close range after Dev Squad goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel had his pass
intercepted. Speaking after the game, Westley said: "It was a bit same old,
same old since I've joined the club. We played well enough, we kept the
ball, but we didn't create enough going forward. The game was very, very
close, possession wise it was very even. "But in both boxes it wasn't
enough. The first goal is ridiculous really it's just a short corner and
within three minutes you are a goal down. To do that against any team in
this league, you're going to create a mountain for yourself. "The second
goal was also very disappointing. We tried to play it out of the back but we
got caught and it was in the back of the net. The game was over."
The defeat marks the end of a busy January for the Dev Squad, who played
their second game in just four days and five games in total. Their next game
is at home to Fulham at Rush Green Stadium on Friday 6 February 2015.
Despite the result, Westley pointed out a number of positives that the young
Hammers can take into the game with the Cottagers: "I thought we were as
good as Southampton, the league leaders, apart from the mistakes. They
didn't carve us open, we conceded two hideous goals. "What we have to
careful about is that we don't continue to repeat ourselves after each game
but that the players learn and improve. In terms of how we played and we
manoeuvred the ball around, I thought we showed some really good signs. In
Oxford and Powell we had two U16s on the pitch which is another positive."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho 'sadness' at Africa Cup of Nations criticism
BBC.co.uk
West Ham and Senegal striker Diafra Sakho says he has been "saddened" and
"angered" by criticism of his absence from the Africa Cup of Nations. Sakho
was ruled out of the competition with a back injury but came off the bench
on Sunday to score West Ham's winner in a FA Cup tie at Bristol City. "You
doubt my love and my patriotism," the 25-year-old wrote on social media.
"The dream to contribute to the victory of my country flew for this year but
is not dead." He added: "Never doubt the lion sleeping in me, as I never
doubt the passion that burns within you."
Sakho suffered a recurrence of an injury against West Brom on 1 January and
was ruled out of the tournament in Equatorial Guinea, which began on 17
January. The match against the Baggies was his last game prior to returning
at Bristol City on Sunday. But a senior Senegal official accused the Hammers
of a "lack of respect" over the forward's withdrawal. Senegal wanted to
assess Sakho themselves but the Hammers said he could not travel. West Ham
boss Sam Allardyce, who described the treatment of an injury to Sakho while
on international duty last year as "outrageous", defended the Upton Park
club's conduct. "He's still unable to fly," Allardyce told Talksport after
the win at Ashton Gate. "We had to drive him down in a limo on Saturday
afternoon, but other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just
see how he goes. "Today was about putting him on the bench with the hope we
didn't have to use him, but in the end bringing him on was the most
important tactical decision for us. "Yesterday I spoke with the chairman and
said he looks alright. We don't think we're doing anything wrong with what
we've done and how we've approached it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Away draw leaves West Ham fourth favourites for the Cup
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have been made fourth favourites to win the 2015 FA Cup after the
draw for the fifth round was made this evening. BetVictor list West Ham at
9/1 to win the Cup for the fourth time behind Liverpool (6/1), Manchester
United (11/4) and favourites Arsenal (9/4). Meanwhile West Ham's fifth round
opponents West Bromwich Albion, who will also enjoy home advantage when they
meet the Irons, are priced at 25/1. Meanwhile the rank outsiders for the
competition are League Two side Cambridge United, who face a fourth round
replay against Manchester United at Old Trafford having drawn their first
meeting 0-0 last Friday. You can get a whacking 2000/1 on the U's lifting
the coveted old trophy at Wembley in May!
FA Cup 2015 Winners Odds
1. Arsenal 9/4
2. Manchester United 11/4
3. Liverpool 6/1
4. West Ham Utd 9/1
5. Stoke City 16/1
6. Aston Villa 20/1
7. Crystal Palace/West Bromwich Albion 25/1
9. Derby County 33/1
10. Leicester/Sunderland 40/1
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Sakho slammed in Senegal storm
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho's unexpected appearance for West Ham in yesterday's 1-0 win
against Bristol City has been met with a furious reaction by football fans
from his home nation. A steady stream of French and Senegalese supporters
took to Sakho's Facebook page in order to express their dissatisfaction at
his appearance at Ashton Gate yesterday whilst Senegal are preparing to face
Algeria in their third AFCON tie tomorrow. So surprised by the negative
reaction was Sakho - who scored the only goal of the game nine minutes from
time, having replaced Enner Valencia early in the second half - that he
composed a message to all those expressing their anger at his unexpectedly
early return to first team football. "I took the time to look at all your
reactions on social networks," he wrote. Very quickly the joy within me
after scoring and saving my club has turned into sadness and anger.
"Sadness because some of your words touched me deeply, in my heart - and
this without you knowing what really happened . Great wrath too, because
after all my struggles day after day, season after season to finally wear
the jersey of my homeland - the only nation that matters to me - you doubt
my love and my patriotism. "My not going to the African Cup of Nations 2015
- my first AFCON - was not painless. The dream of contributing to the
victory of my country came this year, but is not dead. Never doubt the lion
sleeping in me, as I never doubt the passion that burns within you."
Sam Allardyce, asked about Sakho's inclusion after the match said he wasn't
aware of West Ham having done anything wrong by fielding the 24-year-old,
who scored his tenth goal of the campaign today. "He's still unable to fly,"
Allardyce revealed. "We had to drive him down in a limo on Saturday
afternoon, but other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just
see how he goes. "Today was about putting him on the bench with the hope we
didn't have to use him, but in the end bringing him on was the most
important tactical decision for us. "Yesterday I spoke with the chairman and
said he looks alright. We don't think we're doing anything wrong with what
we've done and how we've approached it."
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Sarcy Giresse hails Sakho 'miracle recovery'
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Senegal head coach Alain Giresse has blasted West Ham after Diafra Sakho
returned from injury earlier than expected to score the winning goal against
Bristol City yesterday. Giresse, who is currently preparing his Senegal side
for their third African Cup of Nations fixture against Algeria tomorrow
insisted that the situation involving Sakho - who was withdrawn from
Senegal's AFCON squad at the beginning of Janaury - would be closely
examined. The 62-year-old French coach was disappointed at Sakho's early
return to first team football having been told at the beginning of the month
by West Ham's medical team that the striker could face up to six weeks on
the sidelines with a back injury. As a result Giresse removed Sakho from
the squad, giving his place to Sion's Pape Moussa Konate. Sepaking to
L'Equipe this afternoon, a furious Giresse insisted that representatives
from the African country will examine the situation to determine whether any
action could be taken against West Ham. "First of all we will worry about
tomorrow's match, on the lads who are there and not those who are not," he
said. "But I was surprised to hear that he [Sakho] played. "Supposedly he
couldn't fly for six weeks but was able to return to playing. Maybe the
English have a miracle medicine. We will look into this later. "If things
like this happen and nothing is said, it becomes serious for international
football. We will end up with lots of players who are not allowed to travel
but can still play."
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West Ham's Diafra Sakho 'sad and angry' over AFCON criticism
Last Updated: 26/01/15 3:18pm
SSN
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has spoken of his "sadness and anger" at
criticism directed towards him for not representing Senegal at the Africa
Cup of Nations this month. Sakho was ruled out of the three-week tournament
with a back injury, but came off the bench to score the winner on Sunday as
the Hammers beat Bristol City 1-0 in the FA Cup fourth round. A number of
Senegal fans vented their frustration on Sakho's official Facebook page by
posting comments underneath a picture of him celebrating the goal at Ashton
Gate. One wrote: "So you're not injured?" and another commented:
"Congratulations on your goal, I hope you never play for Senegal again, the
Senegalese people feel betrayed." Sakho responded: "I took the time to
browse all your reactions on social networks. Very quickly my joy from
scoring and rescuing my club has turned into sadness and anger. "Sadness
because some of your words touched me deep in my person and my heart and
this, without you knowing what has really happened. "And great anger,
because after all my struggles day after day, season after season to finally
wear the jersey of my homeland, and my family, the only nation that matters
to me - you doubt my love and my patriotism. "My absence at CAN 2015 (the
African Nations Cup), my first CAN, was not painless. "The dream of
contributing to the victory of my country got away from me this year, but it
is not dead! "Never doubt the lion sleeping in me, as I never doubt the
passion that burns within you."
Senegal accused West Ham of a "lack of respect" when the striker withdrew
from the African Nations Cup earlier this month and threatened to consult
FIFA and the Football Association to prevent the 25-year-old from playing
during the competition. Sakho, who has scored 10 goals since moving to Upton
Park in the summer, suffered a recurrence of a back injury against West Brom
on New Year's Day. Senegal asked to carry out their own medical assessment
on the striker, as is their right according to FIFA rules, but West Ham said
Sakho could not fly and suggested Senegal's doctors came to London instead.
The Hammers also sent Senegal independent medical reports, as well as the
club's own examinations, to prove the extent of the injury. FIFA said they
would not comment on individual cases, but Annexe 1 of its regulations
state: "A player who has been called up by his association for one of its
representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant
association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered
during the period for which he has been released or should have been
released pursuant to the provisions of this annexe. "This restriction on
playing for the club shall, moreover, be prolonged by five days in the event
that the player, for whatsoever reason, did not wish to or was unable to
comply with the call-up."
Sakho could feature in two further games before the Africa Cup of Nations
ends, as West Ham play Liverpool and Manchester United before the tournament
final on February 8. Senegal are top of Group C and need only a draw against
Algeria on Tuesday to qualify for the knockout stages.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Andy Carroll heading back to his very best insists skipper and
pal Kevin Nolan
Jan 26, 2015 22:30 By Mike Walters
England striker continued his recent good form after a torrid year blighted
by injury and lack of goals by setting up FA Cup winner at Bristol City
The Mirror
Andy Carroll has been serving that well-known East end delicacy, humble pie
and mash, to his most strident critics. And as his West Ham skipper Kevin
Nolan invited the "keyboard warriors" who wrote off Carroll to eat their
words, the Hammers dared to dream of landing their first major trophy in 35
years. Nolan had the best view in the house for Carroll's latest floor show
in the 1-0 win against Bristol City in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday as
he created Diafra Sakho's late winner at Ashton Gate. During a wretched year
of patchy form and fleeting fitness, striker Carroll endured a nightmare
spell of 322 days without a goal between April 2013 and March 2014.
And he missed the first three months of this season after suffering ankle
ligament damage on the Hammers' pre-season trip to New Zealand. But five
goals in 14 appearances since his return in November have maintained the
East Enders' unlikely push for European football and sent them into the last
16 in the Cup, where they will visit West Brom. Carroll's prowess in the air
came to the fore with a timely goal-line clearance from under his own bar
against City before his less-heralded right foot set up Sakho's headed
winner with a perfect cross. Nolan said: "People only see Andy for his
aerial ability all the time, but he has got a lot of ability on the floor as
well - we saw that recently against Leicester and at Swansea. "But I think
now he is getting up to full fitness, everything is coming together for him
and I'm delighted because he's had such a tough time with a lot of injuries.
"He never lost his hunger and desire. A lot of people looked in from the
outside and started to give him a lot of stick, but I hope they are starting
to eat their words now because he is beginning to show everyone what he is
all about. "He's always had it, but everyone seemed to forget it because he
wasn't there, doing it on the pitch, and now he is proving them all wrong.
"You get the keyboard warriors having a pop at him and it all escalated from
there, but they don't know the first thing about him. "But now everyone is
talking about him for the right reasons - he has had a torrid couple of
years, but he has put it all behind him and it's fantastic to see."
Nolan admitted the prospect of West Ham at Wembley was beginning to appear
on the horizon, adding: "The fans can go home and dream about it, and on our
day we can beat anyone. "A lot of big teams have gone out, so now it's down
to us to prove we can be successful in this competition. "The romance has
been rekindled, everyone is in love with the FA Cup again and there are no
easy routes to Wembley. We can only take small steps at a time, but give it
a few more weeks and we might be fulfilling our dreams."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Manchester United grant Darren Fletcher a free transfer with West Ham his
likely destination
Jan 26, 2015 19:58 By David McDonnell
The Scot has struggled for first-team action under Louis van Gaal, and could
be set for a switch to East London in the next few days
The Mirror
Darren Fletcher has been granted a free transfer by Manchester United - with
West Ham in pole position to sign him. Midfielder Fletcher has been at
United since 2000 but has become a peripheral figure, despite being made
vice-captain by Louis van Gaal. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is keen to take
Fletcher, 30, to Upton Park, but West Brom and Valencia are also keen on the
Scotland star. Fletcher is understood to be attracted by the prospect of a
move to Spain with Valencia, to experience a new challenge, but has yet to
make a final decision on his next club A one-club man thus far, Fletcher has
made 342 appearances for the Red Devils.
WHY!!!!!!
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Spooky FA Cup omens point to Wembley win!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
1980 history may be in the process of repeating itself with the Hammers
facing West Brom in the next round of the Cup. For back in that Trevor
Brooking-Cup winning season we had to beat the Baggies (after a replay),
Everton (after extra time!) and of course Arsenal in the Final to lift the
old trophy. Oh and another spooky element is that we also saw off Villa who
remain in the competition and meet Leicester City in the next round. Those
who believe in omens will be mightily encouraged!
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Sullivan: "Baggies not the ideal draw"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It's West Brom away.a disappointingly tough test for the Irons! So far this
season we just hold the edge over the midlanders with a win at the Hawthorns
followed by a draw at Upton Park but with Tony Pulis' feet firmly under this
will be as tough as it gets. And chairman David Sullivan's immediate
reaction - speaking to ClaretandHugh - said: "That's not the ideal draw. "We
desperately wanted a home draw for our supporters. However, it's a match we
are well capable of winning, though these are not the easiest of opponents."
The Baggies are unbeaten since Pulis took over and put seven past Gateshead
in the third round before beating local rivals Birmingham 2-1 at the weekend
in the fourth. In between times they have beaten Hull by the odd goal and
drawn away nil-nil at Everton. It's a very tough draw and of course. If we
are gonna win the Cup it really is going to be done the hard way.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Leroy: 'African Cup decision was Diafra's alone'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I am absolutely convinced that had Diafra Sakho considered himself fit
enough to join the Senegal squad for the African Nations Cup tournament he
would have done so. And let's get this straight. At the end of it all this
will have been the player's decision not West Ham's. Of course they wouldn't
have wanted him to go but Diafra undoubtedly will have had the final say. No
doubt the Hammers are very happy that they have him available and perhaps
they attempted to persuade him to stay but I repeat, it was down to him. For
him to be getting stick from some daft fans for not being with the
international squad is unfair and wrong. He looks to me like a lad who leads
his life the way he plays his football - with great honesty - and this was
always going to be a no win situation for him. He was obviously injured and
I have no doubt the Hammers wanted to protect their prize asset as much as
possible after what happened the last time he was on international duty. But
they couldn't have stopped him if he was fit and wanted to go so o it's
pretty clear to me he wasn't and let that be an end to it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan/Valencia issues crystal clear
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Irons were poor yesterday - very poor and there were two reasons for
that in my opinion. Enner Valencia simply cannot play with Andy Carroll at
the present time and Kevin Nolan can't play in a diamond - he doesn't have
the legs to be getting up and down on the right side. And if that's the
shape we are going to keep - which we should - I think he will have to be
excluded from the team. Chjeif Kouyate is the obvious candidate to play in
that role when he returns because even Morgan Amafitano didn't seem to
understand it and wanted to stay out wide which I found surprising. As for
Enner - the boy had a shocker and was taking up ridiculous positions
dropping off in midfield with seemingly not a clue how to work with Andy.
Ok, he is in his first season and settling into the club so let's not talk
about him getting fed up with his role. He has to adapt and learn the same
lessons as Diafra Sakho. That lad made an immediate difference on his
arrival because he has such a great football brain and reads the game
brilliantly - he really is the man and loves running off players! Alex Song
was right off his game because the way we played saw him swamped in midfield
and he had to be taken off looking leggy and tired. But at the end of it all
we are through and a nice little home game against moderate opposition will
do us fine from tonight's draw. But Sam has some hard thinking to do about
Nolan if he is going to persist with the diamond because personally I really
don't believe he can hack it in there these days.
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Sorry Sam - Fletcher is not a top player
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
At the beginning of the transfer window Sam Allardyce insisted he would not
sign any other than a top player! Sorry but I don't think such a statement
would include Darren Fletcher. I'm really not convinced at all! His injury
record is appalling and recent game time hardly convinces he can return to
the level he reached before his illness.
Here's what Allardyce said: "So I'd say one top player, if he became
available, would be something we'd pursue - but someone may have to leave to
fund that. "There's no point in bringing in anybody less than a top player
because what we've got now is top drawer. We've got 22 players all fighting
for places in the team and playing really, really well. "Everybody has to
understand we are well into the second year of FFP so we are all in a much
more difficult position when every window comes, with the limit on spending
power, not just transfer fees but wages. And that's across the board now."
I don't understand what has changed! For me Darren Fletcher is not that top
player we need to sign during this transfer window.
I DOUBT VERY MUCH WHETHER I'M ALONE!
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WHUFC.com
West Ham United will travel to West Bromwich Albion in the FA Cup fifth
round
26.01.2015
West Ham United have been drawn away at West Bromwich Albion in the fifth
round of the FA Cup. The Hammers will travel to the Hawthorns on the weekend
of 14/15 February in their bid for a quarter-final spot. Big Sam's men have
already triumphed once at the home of the Baggies this term, when Kevin
Nolan and James Tomkins hit the target to secure a 2-1 Barclays Premier
League victory in December. West Ham have defeated Everton and Bristol City
to reach this stage of the competition, while Tony Pulis' side have seen off
non-league Gateshead and Championship side Birmingham City so far. The
Hammers have been drawn against the Baggies on five previous occasions in
the FA Cup, winning four of those ties, including in the third round in 1980
- the year they won the competition for the third time.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Noble aiming for Wembley return
WHUFC.com
Mark Noble would love nothing more than to reward West Ham United fans with
a return to Wembley
26.01.2015
Mark Noble is determined to reward the loyalty of his fellow West Ham United
fans by giving them a day out at Wembley. The lifelong Hammer has run out in
Claret and Blue at virtually every major stadium in the country, including a
2012 Championship Play-Off final victory over Blackpool at the Home of
Football. The No16 helped his boyhood Club win through to the last 16 of the
FA Cup at Bristol City on Sunday, meaning the Hammers are now just two
victories from a semi-final date at Wembley. "I wouldn't mind a trip to
Wembley," said the midfielder, who was not even born the last time West Ham
played in a major final at the national stadium back in the 1981 League Cup
final. "It will be a great occasion. The semis are there as well so we are
only two games away from a trip to Wembley, so hopefully we can do it this
time. "To be honest, in this FA Cup we have got as good a chance as anyone.
We have beaten some top teams this year already, so we can beat anyone on
our day. We'll look forward to the draw and see how we got on."
For Noble, an FA Cup semi-final would also give West Ham the opportunity to
erase the memory of last season's 9-0 aggregate defeat by Manchester City in
the last four of the League Cup. "Do you know what, I was only talking to
the boys on Saturday in training about that," Noble revealed. "I know we
lost 9-0 to City last season and that was the semis as well. "That is what I
mean, we had no squad last season, we had a lot of injured players and I
know we got smashed, but we did get to the semis last year. So it was good
to get through a tough cup game on Sunday and stay in the hat in the FA
Cup."
Noble and his team-mates will be hoping for a favourable fifth-round draw as
they hope to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since the 2010/11
season, when their hopes were ended by Stoke City. However, after overcoming
Everton on penalties and coming through a difficult examination at League
One promotion-chasers Bristol City, the 27-year-old insists West Ham have
nothing to fear. "That is the FA Cup for you, we knew it was going to be
tough. The days when you come to a League One team and walk all over them is
long gone. It isn't like that anymore. "They were playing against a Premier
League team, it was on TV, so they ran harder, tackled harder and wanted to
win more, so we just had to be stronger as a team. We kept a clean sheet and
won 1-0 in the end so it is on to the next round. "The clinical finish from
Diafra Sakho did for them in the end and I thought we were solid at the
back. We also had a little bit of luck with a couple of clearances off the
line. It was difficult when they have got four or five six-feet plus players
charging at you in the box, but I thought we handled it well to come away
from it with the win. "In these cup games it doesn't really matter how you
play as long as you win and we won."
As Noble mentioned, Sakho was West Ham's match-winner at Ashton Gate,
marking his return from three weeks out with a back injury in style by
heading home Andy Carroll's 81st-minute cross. With a tough run of Barclays
Premier League games to come, as well as the FA Cup fifth round, the
midfielder welcomed the timing of the striker's comeback. "He is having a
great season, he is a goal machine. He knows where the back of the net is
and he also knows where to be at the right time. We are over the moon to
have him back in the squad with us and we are going to need him for the
tough games to come."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Westley: "It was a very close game"
WHUFC.com
Academy Director Terry Westley said there was very little between the Dev
Squad and the Saints
26.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley said there was very little
difference between the Development Squad and Southampton in their 2-0 defeat
by the Saints. The Saints took an early lead following a defensive mix up
when Dom Gape's in swinging corner was left by everyone and crept in. The
win sees Southampton go top of the Barclays U21 Premier League, and they
sealed the victory with just seven minutes to go when Ryan Seager poked home
from close range after Dev Squad goalkeeper Raphael Spiegel had his pass
intercepted. Speaking after the game, Westley said: "It was a bit same old,
same old since I've joined the club. We played well enough, we kept the
ball, but we didn't create enough going forward. The game was very, very
close, possession wise it was very even. "But in both boxes it wasn't
enough. The first goal is ridiculous really it's just a short corner and
within three minutes you are a goal down. To do that against any team in
this league, you're going to create a mountain for yourself. "The second
goal was also very disappointing. We tried to play it out of the back but we
got caught and it was in the back of the net. The game was over."
The defeat marks the end of a busy January for the Dev Squad, who played
their second game in just four days and five games in total. Their next game
is at home to Fulham at Rush Green Stadium on Friday 6 February 2015.
Despite the result, Westley pointed out a number of positives that the young
Hammers can take into the game with the Cottagers: "I thought we were as
good as Southampton, the league leaders, apart from the mistakes. They
didn't carve us open, we conceded two hideous goals. "What we have to
careful about is that we don't continue to repeat ourselves after each game
but that the players learn and improve. In terms of how we played and we
manoeuvred the ball around, I thought we showed some really good signs. In
Oxford and Powell we had two U16s on the pitch which is another positive."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Diafra Sakho 'sadness' at Africa Cup of Nations criticism
BBC.co.uk
West Ham and Senegal striker Diafra Sakho says he has been "saddened" and
"angered" by criticism of his absence from the Africa Cup of Nations. Sakho
was ruled out of the competition with a back injury but came off the bench
on Sunday to score West Ham's winner in a FA Cup tie at Bristol City. "You
doubt my love and my patriotism," the 25-year-old wrote on social media.
"The dream to contribute to the victory of my country flew for this year but
is not dead." He added: "Never doubt the lion sleeping in me, as I never
doubt the passion that burns within you."
Sakho suffered a recurrence of an injury against West Brom on 1 January and
was ruled out of the tournament in Equatorial Guinea, which began on 17
January. The match against the Baggies was his last game prior to returning
at Bristol City on Sunday. But a senior Senegal official accused the Hammers
of a "lack of respect" over the forward's withdrawal. Senegal wanted to
assess Sakho themselves but the Hammers said he could not travel. West Ham
boss Sam Allardyce, who described the treatment of an injury to Sakho while
on international duty last year as "outrageous", defended the Upton Park
club's conduct. "He's still unable to fly," Allardyce told Talksport after
the win at Ashton Gate. "We had to drive him down in a limo on Saturday
afternoon, but other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just
see how he goes. "Today was about putting him on the bench with the hope we
didn't have to use him, but in the end bringing him on was the most
important tactical decision for us. "Yesterday I spoke with the chairman and
said he looks alright. We don't think we're doing anything wrong with what
we've done and how we've approached it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Away draw leaves West Ham fourth favourites for the Cup
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham have been made fourth favourites to win the 2015 FA Cup after the
draw for the fifth round was made this evening. BetVictor list West Ham at
9/1 to win the Cup for the fourth time behind Liverpool (6/1), Manchester
United (11/4) and favourites Arsenal (9/4). Meanwhile West Ham's fifth round
opponents West Bromwich Albion, who will also enjoy home advantage when they
meet the Irons, are priced at 25/1. Meanwhile the rank outsiders for the
competition are League Two side Cambridge United, who face a fourth round
replay against Manchester United at Old Trafford having drawn their first
meeting 0-0 last Friday. You can get a whacking 2000/1 on the U's lifting
the coveted old trophy at Wembley in May!
FA Cup 2015 Winners Odds
1. Arsenal 9/4
2. Manchester United 11/4
3. Liverpool 6/1
4. West Ham Utd 9/1
5. Stoke City 16/1
6. Aston Villa 20/1
7. Crystal Palace/West Bromwich Albion 25/1
9. Derby County 33/1
10. Leicester/Sunderland 40/1
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Sakho slammed in Senegal storm
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Diafra Sakho's unexpected appearance for West Ham in yesterday's 1-0 win
against Bristol City has been met with a furious reaction by football fans
from his home nation. A steady stream of French and Senegalese supporters
took to Sakho's Facebook page in order to express their dissatisfaction at
his appearance at Ashton Gate yesterday whilst Senegal are preparing to face
Algeria in their third AFCON tie tomorrow. So surprised by the negative
reaction was Sakho - who scored the only goal of the game nine minutes from
time, having replaced Enner Valencia early in the second half - that he
composed a message to all those expressing their anger at his unexpectedly
early return to first team football. "I took the time to look at all your
reactions on social networks," he wrote. Very quickly the joy within me
after scoring and saving my club has turned into sadness and anger.
"Sadness because some of your words touched me deeply, in my heart - and
this without you knowing what really happened . Great wrath too, because
after all my struggles day after day, season after season to finally wear
the jersey of my homeland - the only nation that matters to me - you doubt
my love and my patriotism. "My not going to the African Cup of Nations 2015
- my first AFCON - was not painless. The dream of contributing to the
victory of my country came this year, but is not dead. Never doubt the lion
sleeping in me, as I never doubt the passion that burns within you."
Sam Allardyce, asked about Sakho's inclusion after the match said he wasn't
aware of West Ham having done anything wrong by fielding the 24-year-old,
who scored his tenth goal of the campaign today. "He's still unable to fly,"
Allardyce revealed. "We had to drive him down in a limo on Saturday
afternoon, but other than that he said he can get out on the pitch and just
see how he goes. "Today was about putting him on the bench with the hope we
didn't have to use him, but in the end bringing him on was the most
important tactical decision for us. "Yesterday I spoke with the chairman and
said he looks alright. We don't think we're doing anything wrong with what
we've done and how we've approached it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sarcy Giresse hails Sakho 'miracle recovery'
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 26th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Senegal head coach Alain Giresse has blasted West Ham after Diafra Sakho
returned from injury earlier than expected to score the winning goal against
Bristol City yesterday. Giresse, who is currently preparing his Senegal side
for their third African Cup of Nations fixture against Algeria tomorrow
insisted that the situation involving Sakho - who was withdrawn from
Senegal's AFCON squad at the beginning of Janaury - would be closely
examined. The 62-year-old French coach was disappointed at Sakho's early
return to first team football having been told at the beginning of the month
by West Ham's medical team that the striker could face up to six weeks on
the sidelines with a back injury. As a result Giresse removed Sakho from
the squad, giving his place to Sion's Pape Moussa Konate. Sepaking to
L'Equipe this afternoon, a furious Giresse insisted that representatives
from the African country will examine the situation to determine whether any
action could be taken against West Ham. "First of all we will worry about
tomorrow's match, on the lads who are there and not those who are not," he
said. "But I was surprised to hear that he [Sakho] played. "Supposedly he
couldn't fly for six weeks but was able to return to playing. Maybe the
English have a miracle medicine. We will look into this later. "If things
like this happen and nothing is said, it becomes serious for international
football. We will end up with lots of players who are not allowed to travel
but can still play."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Diafra Sakho 'sad and angry' over AFCON criticism
Last Updated: 26/01/15 3:18pm
SSN
West Ham striker Diafra Sakho has spoken of his "sadness and anger" at
criticism directed towards him for not representing Senegal at the Africa
Cup of Nations this month. Sakho was ruled out of the three-week tournament
with a back injury, but came off the bench to score the winner on Sunday as
the Hammers beat Bristol City 1-0 in the FA Cup fourth round. A number of
Senegal fans vented their frustration on Sakho's official Facebook page by
posting comments underneath a picture of him celebrating the goal at Ashton
Gate. One wrote: "So you're not injured?" and another commented:
"Congratulations on your goal, I hope you never play for Senegal again, the
Senegalese people feel betrayed." Sakho responded: "I took the time to
browse all your reactions on social networks. Very quickly my joy from
scoring and rescuing my club has turned into sadness and anger. "Sadness
because some of your words touched me deep in my person and my heart and
this, without you knowing what has really happened. "And great anger,
because after all my struggles day after day, season after season to finally
wear the jersey of my homeland, and my family, the only nation that matters
to me - you doubt my love and my patriotism. "My absence at CAN 2015 (the
African Nations Cup), my first CAN, was not painless. "The dream of
contributing to the victory of my country got away from me this year, but it
is not dead! "Never doubt the lion sleeping in me, as I never doubt the
passion that burns within you."
Senegal accused West Ham of a "lack of respect" when the striker withdrew
from the African Nations Cup earlier this month and threatened to consult
FIFA and the Football Association to prevent the 25-year-old from playing
during the competition. Sakho, who has scored 10 goals since moving to Upton
Park in the summer, suffered a recurrence of a back injury against West Brom
on New Year's Day. Senegal asked to carry out their own medical assessment
on the striker, as is their right according to FIFA rules, but West Ham said
Sakho could not fly and suggested Senegal's doctors came to London instead.
The Hammers also sent Senegal independent medical reports, as well as the
club's own examinations, to prove the extent of the injury. FIFA said they
would not comment on individual cases, but Annexe 1 of its regulations
state: "A player who has been called up by his association for one of its
representative teams is, unless otherwise agreed by the relevant
association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered
during the period for which he has been released or should have been
released pursuant to the provisions of this annexe. "This restriction on
playing for the club shall, moreover, be prolonged by five days in the event
that the player, for whatsoever reason, did not wish to or was unable to
comply with the call-up."
Sakho could feature in two further games before the Africa Cup of Nations
ends, as West Ham play Liverpool and Manchester United before the tournament
final on February 8. Senegal are top of Group C and need only a draw against
Algeria on Tuesday to qualify for the knockout stages.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Andy Carroll heading back to his very best insists skipper and
pal Kevin Nolan
Jan 26, 2015 22:30 By Mike Walters
England striker continued his recent good form after a torrid year blighted
by injury and lack of goals by setting up FA Cup winner at Bristol City
The Mirror
Andy Carroll has been serving that well-known East end delicacy, humble pie
and mash, to his most strident critics. And as his West Ham skipper Kevin
Nolan invited the "keyboard warriors" who wrote off Carroll to eat their
words, the Hammers dared to dream of landing their first major trophy in 35
years. Nolan had the best view in the house for Carroll's latest floor show
in the 1-0 win against Bristol City in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday as
he created Diafra Sakho's late winner at Ashton Gate. During a wretched year
of patchy form and fleeting fitness, striker Carroll endured a nightmare
spell of 322 days without a goal between April 2013 and March 2014.
And he missed the first three months of this season after suffering ankle
ligament damage on the Hammers' pre-season trip to New Zealand. But five
goals in 14 appearances since his return in November have maintained the
East Enders' unlikely push for European football and sent them into the last
16 in the Cup, where they will visit West Brom. Carroll's prowess in the air
came to the fore with a timely goal-line clearance from under his own bar
against City before his less-heralded right foot set up Sakho's headed
winner with a perfect cross. Nolan said: "People only see Andy for his
aerial ability all the time, but he has got a lot of ability on the floor as
well - we saw that recently against Leicester and at Swansea. "But I think
now he is getting up to full fitness, everything is coming together for him
and I'm delighted because he's had such a tough time with a lot of injuries.
"He never lost his hunger and desire. A lot of people looked in from the
outside and started to give him a lot of stick, but I hope they are starting
to eat their words now because he is beginning to show everyone what he is
all about. "He's always had it, but everyone seemed to forget it because he
wasn't there, doing it on the pitch, and now he is proving them all wrong.
"You get the keyboard warriors having a pop at him and it all escalated from
there, but they don't know the first thing about him. "But now everyone is
talking about him for the right reasons - he has had a torrid couple of
years, but he has put it all behind him and it's fantastic to see."
Nolan admitted the prospect of West Ham at Wembley was beginning to appear
on the horizon, adding: "The fans can go home and dream about it, and on our
day we can beat anyone. "A lot of big teams have gone out, so now it's down
to us to prove we can be successful in this competition. "The romance has
been rekindled, everyone is in love with the FA Cup again and there are no
easy routes to Wembley. We can only take small steps at a time, but give it
a few more weeks and we might be fulfilling our dreams."
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Manchester United grant Darren Fletcher a free transfer with West Ham his
likely destination
Jan 26, 2015 19:58 By David McDonnell
The Scot has struggled for first-team action under Louis van Gaal, and could
be set for a switch to East London in the next few days
The Mirror
Darren Fletcher has been granted a free transfer by Manchester United - with
West Ham in pole position to sign him. Midfielder Fletcher has been at
United since 2000 but has become a peripheral figure, despite being made
vice-captain by Louis van Gaal. West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is keen to take
Fletcher, 30, to Upton Park, but West Brom and Valencia are also keen on the
Scotland star. Fletcher is understood to be attracted by the prospect of a
move to Spain with Valencia, to experience a new challenge, but has yet to
make a final decision on his next club A one-club man thus far, Fletcher has
made 342 appearances for the Red Devils.
WHY!!!!!!
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Spooky FA Cup omens point to Wembley win!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
1980 history may be in the process of repeating itself with the Hammers
facing West Brom in the next round of the Cup. For back in that Trevor
Brooking-Cup winning season we had to beat the Baggies (after a replay),
Everton (after extra time!) and of course Arsenal in the Final to lift the
old trophy. Oh and another spooky element is that we also saw off Villa who
remain in the competition and meet Leicester City in the next round. Those
who believe in omens will be mightily encouraged!
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Sullivan: "Baggies not the ideal draw"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It's West Brom away.a disappointingly tough test for the Irons! So far this
season we just hold the edge over the midlanders with a win at the Hawthorns
followed by a draw at Upton Park but with Tony Pulis' feet firmly under this
will be as tough as it gets. And chairman David Sullivan's immediate
reaction - speaking to ClaretandHugh - said: "That's not the ideal draw. "We
desperately wanted a home draw for our supporters. However, it's a match we
are well capable of winning, though these are not the easiest of opponents."
The Baggies are unbeaten since Pulis took over and put seven past Gateshead
in the third round before beating local rivals Birmingham 2-1 at the weekend
in the fourth. In between times they have beaten Hull by the odd goal and
drawn away nil-nil at Everton. It's a very tough draw and of course. If we
are gonna win the Cup it really is going to be done the hard way.
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Leroy: 'African Cup decision was Diafra's alone'
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
I am absolutely convinced that had Diafra Sakho considered himself fit
enough to join the Senegal squad for the African Nations Cup tournament he
would have done so. And let's get this straight. At the end of it all this
will have been the player's decision not West Ham's. Of course they wouldn't
have wanted him to go but Diafra undoubtedly will have had the final say. No
doubt the Hammers are very happy that they have him available and perhaps
they attempted to persuade him to stay but I repeat, it was down to him. For
him to be getting stick from some daft fans for not being with the
international squad is unfair and wrong. He looks to me like a lad who leads
his life the way he plays his football - with great honesty - and this was
always going to be a no win situation for him. He was obviously injured and
I have no doubt the Hammers wanted to protect their prize asset as much as
possible after what happened the last time he was on international duty. But
they couldn't have stopped him if he was fit and wanted to go so o it's
pretty clear to me he wasn't and let that be an end to it.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Nolan/Valencia issues crystal clear
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Irons were poor yesterday - very poor and there were two reasons for
that in my opinion. Enner Valencia simply cannot play with Andy Carroll at
the present time and Kevin Nolan can't play in a diamond - he doesn't have
the legs to be getting up and down on the right side. And if that's the
shape we are going to keep - which we should - I think he will have to be
excluded from the team. Chjeif Kouyate is the obvious candidate to play in
that role when he returns because even Morgan Amafitano didn't seem to
understand it and wanted to stay out wide which I found surprising. As for
Enner - the boy had a shocker and was taking up ridiculous positions
dropping off in midfield with seemingly not a clue how to work with Andy.
Ok, he is in his first season and settling into the club so let's not talk
about him getting fed up with his role. He has to adapt and learn the same
lessons as Diafra Sakho. That lad made an immediate difference on his
arrival because he has such a great football brain and reads the game
brilliantly - he really is the man and loves running off players! Alex Song
was right off his game because the way we played saw him swamped in midfield
and he had to be taken off looking leggy and tired. But at the end of it all
we are through and a nice little home game against moderate opposition will
do us fine from tonight's draw. But Sam has some hard thinking to do about
Nolan if he is going to persist with the diamond because personally I really
don't believe he can hack it in there these days.
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Sorry Sam - Fletcher is not a top player
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 26, 2015 in Whispers
Claret 7 Hugh
By Sean Whetstone
At the beginning of the transfer window Sam Allardyce insisted he would not
sign any other than a top player! Sorry but I don't think such a statement
would include Darren Fletcher. I'm really not convinced at all! His injury
record is appalling and recent game time hardly convinces he can return to
the level he reached before his illness.
Here's what Allardyce said: "So I'd say one top player, if he became
available, would be something we'd pursue - but someone may have to leave to
fund that. "There's no point in bringing in anybody less than a top player
because what we've got now is top drawer. We've got 22 players all fighting
for places in the team and playing really, really well. "Everybody has to
understand we are well into the second year of FFP so we are all in a much
more difficult position when every window comes, with the limit on spending
power, not just transfer fees but wages. And that's across the board now."
I don't understand what has changed! For me Darren Fletcher is not that top
player we need to sign during this transfer window.
I DOUBT VERY MUCH WHETHER I'M ALONE!
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http://vyperz.blogspot.com
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Monday, January 26
Daily WHUFC News - 26th January 2015
Reid relieved with FA Cup victory
WHUFC.com
Winston Reid admitted West Ham United rode their luck to make it through to the FA Cup fifth round
25.01.2015
Man of the Match Winston Reid said West Ham United were both happy and relieved to go through to the FA Cup fifth round at the first attempt. The Hammers were pushed all the way by League One title-chasers Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Sunday before prevailing through a late goal from substitute Diafra Sakho. On a weekend that saw a host of the Barclays Premier League's big guns fall to shock defeats, Reid admitted he and his teammates were delighted to have avoided their names being added to the list. "In the first half we were under pressure, which was always going to happen when you come away to these places," said the No2, who was involved in a game-long battle with Bristol City's giant striker Matt Smith and centre-back Aden Flint, among others. "They gave a good performance but fortunately for us we kept a clean sheet and Sakho came on and got the goal. "Obviously we wanted to finish off the game in one go, get a goal and get the win and we did that. Even though we didn't play our best football, we got there in the end and the most important thing is we're in the next round." "The manager was speaking beforehand about the amount of upsets and we didn't want to be one of them. We did all right and made the most of the opportunities that we created and are now in the hat for the last 16."
West Ham are one of just six top-flight sides who are guaranteed to be in the fifth round, while the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and the Hammers' third-round victims Everton are all out. The draw for the last-16 will be made live on BBC1's The One Show on Monday evening at 7pm, with West Ham taking ball No15.
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Sam happy to avoid FA Cup-set
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was pleased with West Ham United's 1-0 FA Cup fourth-round win at Bristol City
25.01.2015
Sam Allardyce hailed a job well done as West Ham United steered clear of a weekend of FA Cup fourth-round upsets by securing a 1-0 win at Bristol City. With Chelsea, Manchester City, Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur all suffering home exits on Saturday, there was a buzz of expectation of another shock around Ashton Gate ahead of Sunday's tie. The Hammers rode their luck at times in the West Country, but substitute Diafra Sakho marked his return from a back injury by heading in Andy Carroll's 81st-minute cross to send the Londoners into the last-16. Earlier, the League One title-chasers had gone close on a host of occasions, with Matt Smith seeing two headers cleared off the line. The giant striker also flashed another header wide in added-time, but West Ham held out to complete a professional victory.
"It was tough," the manager told West Ham TV. "We knew this game was never going to be easy. Everybody has had the big shocks over the weekend and we didn't want another shock happening here. "There were bigger shocks at Chelsea and Man City than there would have been at Bristol City, but my take on it was that we had to be utterly professional and try to play our best football, if possible, to break them down. "That wasn't the case. We didn't play our best football, but after the first 15 minutes we started to get better and better and, with the substitutions, we got better quality in possession. We were struggling a bit with the bobbling pitch and the ball bouncing around and not controlling it and passing it around as well as we can. "That got better and ultimately a piece of quality from Andy Carroll, wriggling his way through and producing the final ball for Diafra on the far post was the difference between both teams. "I think, for us, it's a very hard-earned victory to get through to the next round, but we're very pleased to be in the hat."
So, while there was frustration in some quarters that West Ham were unable to produce their fluent best against Steve Cotterill's side, Big Sam was quick to praise the home side. "I have said this for many years that I think that the standard of football in the lower divisions has got better and better. "I think we have to pay so much for Premier League footballers now that everybody expects the gulf to be huge, but that gulf has been proven not to be that big this weekend. Even though we spend multi-million pounds on players for the Premier League, players in the lower leagues can lift themselves and match you on the day and be very close to you and, on occasions, better than you as we've seen this weekend. "We have managed to overcome a very difficult cup tie against a team that's in fantastic form and has got a huge amount of confidence because of where they are in the league and very rarely loses a game here at Ashton Gate. "They had nothing to lose. We had everything to lose and nothing to gain and sadly for them they haven't come away with anything. They'll be disappointed considering the way they performed, but from our point of view we were very professional and it's a fantastic victory against a team that played their best."
With victory in Bristol, West Ham are through to the last-16 for the first time since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010/11. With many of the Barclays Premier League's big guns having already been fired out of the competition, the manager believes West Ham have a great chance to go all the way to Wembley this season. "We've got a better chance than normal because we're not going to be drawing Manchester City or Chelsea or Tottenham and we've already seen off Everton, so that gives us a better chance. "It'll never be easy against a Middlesbrough or Bradford, but you would rather have them in the hat than a Chelsea, Tottenham or Manchester City. "Hopefully we'll get a good draw, a home draw and we can progress even farther than we have today."
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Jenko glad to come through tough test
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson said the Hammers had to show their mettle to defeat Bristol City on Sunday
25.01.2015
Carl Jenkinson was not surprised by the questions asked of West Ham United by Sky Bet League One high-flyers Bristol City on Sunday. The Hammers progressed through to the fifth round of the FA Cup thanks to Diafra Sakho's 81st minute header, but not before the Robins had two Matt Smith efforts cleared off the line by Mark Noble and Andy Carroll. West Ham eventually took control of the contest to get their winner and on-loan right back Jenkinson was delighted to have thrown their name into the hat for Monday's draw. "It was always going to be that sort of FA Cup tie," he said. "It was very important to keep a clean sheet - we did that and scored a great goal. "It was difficult because they were a good side, especially in the first half. We came more into the game as it went on and to be fair they did get some balls into the box. They were a handful from set pieces as they had some big lads and we tried to nullify that as much as we could. "We did in the main - they didn't have too many clear cut chances other than a couple in the first half and we were always going to have to ride the storm a little bit. "We're very happy with the result in the end."
The Hammers have now kept successive clean sheets and Jenkinson knows how vital that is towards maintaining their good form - as well as the strikers being sharp in front of goal. He continued: "As a defender it's always nice to keep the ball out of the net - we've got a strong defensive unit now. That's not just the keeper and the back four but the midfield's doing a good job as well. "We have a good understanding. We're doing well defensively at the moment and that's a good sign. "Diafra knows where the back of the net is and it was a nice header. I think the credit has to go to Andy. He did some fantastic work out on the right and put in a tremendous ball. "It was a well-worked goal and I'm glad it was those two involved because they're our strikers and we want them getting goals."
Saturday may have been a day of dramatic FA Cup shocks, but West Ham did their bit to ensure Sunday was not a repeat, and having been involved in a cup winning effort with Arsenal last term, Jenkinson would love another tilt at glory. He continued: "We don't want to get too carried away but there were some good results yesterday for the smaller teams. We just think about ourselves and focused on our own game on Sunday. "We didn't worry about the upsets or who we would be getting in the next round. We focused on Bristol City and I think it worked. "It would be fantastic [to have another run]. Last year at Arsenal we took it one game at a time and that's what we've got to do here. "I think we're doing well at that. We're concentrating and taking it game-by-game - we're not getting too carried away whether it be in the league or the cup. "We've had a couple of good results now and it's important that we kick on because we have some tough fixtures coming up."
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Bristol City 0 West Ham 1
25 January 2015
Last updated at 16:33
By Steve Canavan
BBC Sport
Diafra Sakho headed a late winner as West Ham withstood a frantic start from Bristol City to book their place in the FA Cup fifth round.
The League One side dominated the opening exchanges at a sell-out Ashton Gate and striker Matt Smith twice had headers cleared off the line. But West Ham kept their composure and Sakho headed in Andy Carroll's tempting cross nine minutes from the end. Sakho, who came on as a 56th minute substitute, also hit the crossbar. Bristol City went into the contest in imperious form, on the back of four straight wins and with just one defeat in their last 12 outings. Much of the Robins' success in League One this season has been built on a strong defence. They have conceded just 22 goals in 25 league games and sit joint-top alongside Swindon. And Steve Cotterill's team began in confident fashion, with the pace of Luke Freeman and the height and physical presence of forward Smith causing the Hammers problems.
Twice Smith had headers cleared off the line, first by Mark Noble before Andy Carroll came to West Ham's rescue with a superb clearance after keeper Adrian was again beaten by Smith. Carroll had his arm raised but television replays showed he used his head to clear the ball.
The Hammers, who are seventh in the Premier League and unbeaten since the turn of the year, improved markedly after the break, especially after the introduction of Sakho and fellow substitute Morgan Amalfitano. Sakho gave warning of what was to come when he clipped the crossbar with a strong shot. His goal came courtesy of good work on the right by Carroll, who delivered an inviting cross which Sakho headed past Frank Fielding. Smith had one last headed attempt for the home side, connecting with Jay Emmanuel-Thomas's stoppage-time cross but he put his effort wide of the post. The Hammers had reached the fourth round courtesy of a 9-8 penalty shoot-out replay win over Everton and West Ham manager Sam Allardyce had made it clear to his players that he did not want to waste that hard work. After a weekend of shocks, with Chelsea and Manchester City losing, West Ham avoided going the same way.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce: "I knew it was going to be tough and it was exactly that. Bristol City showed why they are where they are in their league. "We found it difficult to get our passing game going but thankfully Andy's cross and Sakho's header was all we needed to get a very important win. "This is a pretty big result for us."
Bristol City boss Steve Cotterill: "We've played like that for most of the season but we had to score in that first half hour because our tempo was so good. "I was surprised at how many times we got a look at their goal. But overall I am very proud of the lads."
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All eyes on number 15
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 25th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have been allocated the number 15 ball for tomorrow night's FA Cup fifth round draw. The Hammers are in the pot having beaten Bristol City 1-0 at Ashton Gate this afternoon courtesy of Diafra Sakho's late strike, and join 20 other teams in the draw.
With half of the Premier League having been dumped out of the competition already, West Ham are now the third-highest ranked team left in the competition behind only Manchester United (fourth in the BPL table) and Arsenal (fifth). The draw takes place at 7.20pm (GMT) on Monday evening and may be seen live here on KUMB (link to be announced tomorrow). The full set of numbers for the fifth round draw are as follows:
1. Crystal Palace
2. Cambridge United or Manchester United
3. Blackburn Rovers
4. Bradford City
5. Derby County
6. Preston North End or Sheffield United
7. West Bromwich Albion
8. Aston Villa
9. Reading
10. Liverpool or Bolton
11. Leicester City
12. Arsenal
13. Rochdale or Stoke City
14. Sunderland or Fulham
15. West Ham
16. Middlesbrough
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce admits relief after 1-0 win at Bristol City
Last Updated: 25/01/15 5:56pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce admitted he was relieved after West Ham beat Bristol City 1-0 to avoid joining the list of big-name FA Cup fourth-round casualties. Substitute Diafra Sakho broke City hearts with an 81st-minute winner, rising at the far post to beat goalkeeper Frank Fielding after Andy Carroll had done well to cross from the right. The outcome was harsh on the League One high-flyers and Allardyce admitted to be fearing the worse early on. "I expected us to play a lot better than we did," Allardyce said. "In the end one moment of quality has put us in the next round and that is the most important thing. "All credit to Bristol City for never being overawed and taking their league form, which has been outstanding, into the FA Cup. Twice the visitors were forced to clear the ball off the line as Matt Smith caused the Hammers rearguard all sorts of problems, but Allardyce's men stood firm, and the West Ham boss believes withstanding the physicality of the home side was key to victory. "Keeping a clean sheet made all the difference and it was a hard-earned victory for us," Allardyce added. "They had their best spell in the opening 15 or 20 minutes, but we battled all the way through to make that one bit of quality count. "With the size Bristol have in their team, we knew we had to protect ourselves as best we could from set-pieces. We put players on each post because we felt at some point they would get headers at our goal and it proved a wise tactic. "How far we can go in the competition will depend on the draw. We will have to face Premier League opposition at some point if we progress, but I would rather leave that until the final!"
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Substitute Diafra Sakho grabs late winner as West Ham earn 1-0 win at Bristol City
By Pete Hall - @PeteHall86. Last Updated: 25/01/15 8:12pm
SSN
Substitute Diafra Sakho popped up at the back post to help West Ham secure a 1-0 win at Bristol City in the FA Cup fourth round. With the game seemingly heading for a replay, Andy Carroll picked out his strike partner Diafra Sakho with just nine minutes left to head the Hammers through. The League One high flyers looked like the Premier League team in the opening period as they played neat, intricate football to try and break the Premier League side down. Twice in the first half the visitors had to clear the ball off the line from Matt Smith headers, with Carroll's efforts underneath his own crossbar especially impressive. After the break the pace of the game slowed somewhat as West Ham started to get a foothold in the match. Sakho clipped the top of the crossbar with a thunderous strike from a tight angle as it looked like the visitors would be frustrated by the determined League One side. However, the Senegalese striker arrived in the right place at the right time after superb work from Carroll to pick him out to snatch victory for the Sam Allardyce's men as they continued to impress this season. Right from the word go, the home side showed why they are flying high in League One, and actually looked like they were the Premier League side as Sam Allardyce's men struggled to cope with their pace on the counter.
The first of Smith's chances came in just the fifth minute, as he looped a header form a corner over Adrian in the West Ham goal, but Mark Noble got behind his 'keeper to head away. West Ham struggled to get out of their own half early on as the Robins continued to dominate. Luke Freeman was the instigator of all that was good about the hosts, and he was inches away on several occasions from finding that killer pass. Smith then thought he had broken the deadlock with another powerful header, but Carroll brilliantly got his head to it to divert Smith's effort over the bar. Carroll was then at his favoured end of the pitch, getting on the end of a firm Carl Jenkinson cross, but his stab at goal was well saved by an otherwise untested Frank Fielding in the home goal. After the break the visitors came into the contest much more as the League One side tired. The arrival of Sakho and Morgan Amalfitano added more impetus to the Hammers attack, and along with Carroll, they started to cause the hosts some problems. Stewart Downing fired over the bar as he arrived late in the box before Sakho came mightily close to breaking the deadlock. Picking up the ball in a wide position, Sakho flicked the ball over his own head and unleashed a ferocious effort at goal, which beat Fielding, but clipped the top of the crossbar. The Senegalese hitman wasn't to be outdone however, but the plaudits must go to Carroll for the assist for West Ham's winner. The former Liverpool striker brought a bouncing ball under control and clipped a perfect cross to the back post which picked out an unmarked Sakho, who found the roof of the net from close range. Smith again looked most likely to get on the scoresheet for the home side, but his header in the dying moments flew just wide with Adrian struggling to get across. The result sees West Ham avoid being another Premier League scalp on a weekend of shocks, but the Robins can be proud of their efforts, as they more than held their own against superior opposition.
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Bristol City 0-1 West Ham: Diafra Sakho heads Hammers past the Robins into the fifth round
Jan 25, 2015 22:00 By Mike Walters
The Senegalese clambered off the bench to meet an Andy Carroll cross and ensure Sam Allardyce's men will be in the hat for Monday's draw
The Mirror
Andy Carroll was the headline act on Pie and Mash of the Day as gritty West Ham broke the cider house rules. Saviour at one end with a brilliant goalline clearance, Carroll created Diafra Sakho's 81st-minute winner at Ashton Gate. The Hammers lived dangerously at times, but 35 years after the Cup was paraded through the East End, Sam Allardyce's men are marching on Wembley again. Twelve months ago, Allardyce was clinging on to his job after losing 5-0 at Notingham Forest in the FA Cup and 9-0 on aggregate to Manchester City in the Capital One Cup semi-finals... but look at him now. So many big guns have fallen by the wayside, this could be the year he finally lands a trophy. "We were never at our best, but we did enough to get through to the next round, which is the most important thing," admitted Allardyce after surviving a scare in Cider country. "I told the players, 'Don't be victims, don't be another casualty of Cup shocks, make sure you are utterly professional in everything you do' – and they were. I'm just glad we are not one of the bigger teams crying all the way home this weekend, and in the end that one bit of quality we produced for the goal was all it needed. "As we have seen over the past couple of days, a team can be inspired by the FA Cup and although there is a big gap between the Premier League and the lower divisions in terms of finance, the gap in quality is not as big as everyone thinks. "Bristol City took their League form into this game and they were not overawed."
City boss Steve Cotterill can be chippier than Chippy Minton, the carpenter in toddlers' TV serial Trumpton, but he was entitled to go home with matching chips on each shoulder. Tenacious, spirited and well-organised, the Robins deserved a replay at Upton Park. For an hour, until Sakho joined the fray, City were more purposeful, more threatening, more convincing in all departments. Cotterill can be proud of the way his League One front runners gave the Hammers a fright, especially in the first half-hour when Mark Noble and, especially, Carroll were required to make urgent interventions to clear off the line from Matt Smith. And from an unfavourable angle, young midfielder Joe Bryan drove a decent chance beyond Adrian's left-hand post. But when Sakho replaced the ineffective Enner Valencia 12 minutes into the second half, West Ham were transformed from toothless to ruthless. Sakho soon made his presence felt by clipping the bar with a nifty half-volley, but City did not heed the warning and nine minutes from time the Senegalese striker delivered the proverbial knockout blow. Carroll, surging to the dead-ball line on the right-hand edge of the box, somehow managed to squeeze his cross to the far post, where Sakho – out injured since New Year's Day – rose to head his 10th goal of the season under the angle of bar and post.
Allardyce added: "One moment of quality has put us in the next round and that is the most important thing. "Keeping a clean sheet made all the difference and it was a hard-earned victory for us. They had their best spell in the opening 15 or 20 minutes, but we battled all the way through. "With the size Bristol have in their team, we knew we had to protect ourselves as best we could from set-pieces. We put players on each post because we felt at some point they would get headers at our goal – and it proved a wise tactic. "How far we can go in the competition will depend on the draw. We will have to face Premier League opposition at some point if we progress, but I would rather leave that until the final!"
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Cup glory can boost the Song cause!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
An FA Cup winning season is likely to put another brick in the Alex Song wall! Until now all the talk has been of pride and glory but a winning appearance at Wembley in the final of this competition is far more important to West Ham than any of that, Generally speaking there are three UEFA Europa League places given to English clubs who fulfil the following criteria: winning the FA Cup, winning the Capital One Cup and finishing fifth in the Barclays Premier League.
This may well be our best chance of making Europe and and it would be a huge boost to our hopes of persuading Song his future is with us.
The Song issue has been way up on their on the agenda almost since he arrived and that's another reason why today's match takes on such an importance. Sam Allardyce says: "It is whether Alex wants to stay, if he wants to stay then I would want him to stay of course.
"Whether it is financially feasible we will see. If a greater size entices him away or if Alex says he wants to further his career with West Ham after what he has done this year, then great."
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Fletcher record makes grim reading
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Darren Fletcher remains at the centre of rumours tonight that he has – or is about – to sign a deal with the Irons in a deal driven entirely by manager Sam Allardyce. But none of our regular sources have confirmed that either a two and a half or three and a half year deal has been done on the 30 year old.
The player's injury track record remains a big worry for the 'financial heads' inside the club along with the fact that he has only completed two games for United this season.
And you have to ask if he's not good enough for the United first team why would consider him a prize acquisition. He lasted 90 minutes in two early season games against Swansea and Burnley, appeared for 63 mins against Sunderland, 25 against us, a minute apiece against Crystal Palace, Southampton and Arsenal, 16 mins against Hull, four against Stoke and 46 and 28 against Aston Villa and Newcastle.
He has spent 90 mins on the bench against QPR, Leicester City, Everton, West Brom, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, Spurs and Stoke City and has not been involved in the squad over the last two games
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Super 'Sak' returns a conquering hero
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Priceless Diafra Sakho came off the bench to send the Irons into the velvet bag for the fifth round draw of the FA Cup. The striker rose at the far post (pictured) to head home an Andy Carroll cross from close range in the 81st minute on a comeback appearance. Sakho's goal was a massive relief given the pressure the Irons had been forced to soak up throughout the 80 minutes as the Keague One put the pressure on and never rook their foot off the gas. Giant striker Matt Smith was a constant threat seeing an early shot blocked by James Tomkins and presenting constant aerial problems. Mark Noble was forced to produce a clearing header off the line from the big man before Bryan shot wide of a far post with Adrian well beaten.
It was Smith though who dominated and his counterpart Andy Carroll was forced to clear off the Irons goal line again from another towering effort. The Hammers had been unable to find any rhythm or serious energy in a first half totally dominated by City although there were signs the Hammers were finding a toehold as the first half ended. Emmanuel-Thomas' had the first chance of the second half but although on target, Adrian was right behind his free kick, saving with ease. The arrival of Sakho though started to change the flow of the game and the Irons produced a good move which saw Cresswell cut the ball back for him but keeper Flint blocked. The Senegal hitman though was close when skimming the crossbar after bringing the ball under control brilliantly. And just six minutes later 'Sak' got his reward when Carroll's persistence on the right saw him make space for the cross and his partner arrived to crash home a header from close range. He then produced his trademark run to the fans arms crossed across his chest – he is the MAN! It was never easy. It was never pretty but after the shocks of yesterday we are through an looking towards Wembley.
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Fletcher: No deal…much doubt
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
No deal has yet been done to bring Darren Fletcher to Upton Park. Despite widespread rumours on forums that the player has agreed a three and a half year deal, ClaretandHugh has been told within the last few minutes: "There's no deal." And we also learned that the player will need to face a very stern medical should the club decide to push things further down the road. A top insider told us exclusively a few minutes ago: "There's no deal on Fletcher at this stage. He hasn't even had a medical yet and were we to go further with this, we would do a very strict medical." Whilst Sam Allardyce is desperately keen to push a deal through there remains much doubt about taking the player among important Boleyn 'faces.' One said: "It's very much a Sam deal. Some of us aren't so sure. He's obviously out of favour at Old Trafford. "There are doubts among several of us here and as I say he'll face a very strong medical before we even consider taking it further."
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Karren Brady reacts to West Ham United's win v Bristol City in FA Cup
HITC
Subhankar Mondal
1 hour ago
West Ham United edged past Bristol City 1-0 away from home in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday. West Ham United vice-chairman Karren Brady has taken to social networking site Twitter to revel in the team's success in the FA Cup. Premier League outfit West Ham booked their place in the fifth round of the prestigious competition with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bristol City on Sunday. Diafra Sakho's goal nine minutes from full time proved to be the difference between the two sides at the Ashton Gate Stadium. It was not the best of performances from the Hammers, who could have easily lost the fourth-round tie had City been able to take their chances.
That did not affect Brady's mood, though, as she was just pleased to see Sam Allardyce's side progress to the last-16 stage of the FA Cup. After the victory in Bristol, the West Ham vice-chairman took to Twitter to express her delight.
Karren Brady ✔ @karren_brady
So pleased - into the next round of the FA CUP, season just keeps getting better and better
West Ham are having a fabulous season and are very much in with a chance of finishing in the top four of the Premier League. The Hammers are currently seventh in the league table with 36 points from 22 matches, just four points behind fourth-placed Manchester United.
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WHUFC.com
Winston Reid admitted West Ham United rode their luck to make it through to the FA Cup fifth round
25.01.2015
Man of the Match Winston Reid said West Ham United were both happy and relieved to go through to the FA Cup fifth round at the first attempt. The Hammers were pushed all the way by League One title-chasers Bristol City at Ashton Gate on Sunday before prevailing through a late goal from substitute Diafra Sakho. On a weekend that saw a host of the Barclays Premier League's big guns fall to shock defeats, Reid admitted he and his teammates were delighted to have avoided their names being added to the list. "In the first half we were under pressure, which was always going to happen when you come away to these places," said the No2, who was involved in a game-long battle with Bristol City's giant striker Matt Smith and centre-back Aden Flint, among others. "They gave a good performance but fortunately for us we kept a clean sheet and Sakho came on and got the goal. "Obviously we wanted to finish off the game in one go, get a goal and get the win and we did that. Even though we didn't play our best football, we got there in the end and the most important thing is we're in the next round." "The manager was speaking beforehand about the amount of upsets and we didn't want to be one of them. We did all right and made the most of the opportunities that we created and are now in the hat for the last 16."
West Ham are one of just six top-flight sides who are guaranteed to be in the fifth round, while the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and the Hammers' third-round victims Everton are all out. The draw for the last-16 will be made live on BBC1's The One Show on Monday evening at 7pm, with West Ham taking ball No15.
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Sam happy to avoid FA Cup-set
WHUFC.com
Sam Allardyce was pleased with West Ham United's 1-0 FA Cup fourth-round win at Bristol City
25.01.2015
Sam Allardyce hailed a job well done as West Ham United steered clear of a weekend of FA Cup fourth-round upsets by securing a 1-0 win at Bristol City. With Chelsea, Manchester City, Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur all suffering home exits on Saturday, there was a buzz of expectation of another shock around Ashton Gate ahead of Sunday's tie. The Hammers rode their luck at times in the West Country, but substitute Diafra Sakho marked his return from a back injury by heading in Andy Carroll's 81st-minute cross to send the Londoners into the last-16. Earlier, the League One title-chasers had gone close on a host of occasions, with Matt Smith seeing two headers cleared off the line. The giant striker also flashed another header wide in added-time, but West Ham held out to complete a professional victory.
"It was tough," the manager told West Ham TV. "We knew this game was never going to be easy. Everybody has had the big shocks over the weekend and we didn't want another shock happening here. "There were bigger shocks at Chelsea and Man City than there would have been at Bristol City, but my take on it was that we had to be utterly professional and try to play our best football, if possible, to break them down. "That wasn't the case. We didn't play our best football, but after the first 15 minutes we started to get better and better and, with the substitutions, we got better quality in possession. We were struggling a bit with the bobbling pitch and the ball bouncing around and not controlling it and passing it around as well as we can. "That got better and ultimately a piece of quality from Andy Carroll, wriggling his way through and producing the final ball for Diafra on the far post was the difference between both teams. "I think, for us, it's a very hard-earned victory to get through to the next round, but we're very pleased to be in the hat."
So, while there was frustration in some quarters that West Ham were unable to produce their fluent best against Steve Cotterill's side, Big Sam was quick to praise the home side. "I have said this for many years that I think that the standard of football in the lower divisions has got better and better. "I think we have to pay so much for Premier League footballers now that everybody expects the gulf to be huge, but that gulf has been proven not to be that big this weekend. Even though we spend multi-million pounds on players for the Premier League, players in the lower leagues can lift themselves and match you on the day and be very close to you and, on occasions, better than you as we've seen this weekend. "We have managed to overcome a very difficult cup tie against a team that's in fantastic form and has got a huge amount of confidence because of where they are in the league and very rarely loses a game here at Ashton Gate. "They had nothing to lose. We had everything to lose and nothing to gain and sadly for them they haven't come away with anything. They'll be disappointed considering the way they performed, but from our point of view we were very professional and it's a fantastic victory against a team that played their best."
With victory in Bristol, West Ham are through to the last-16 for the first time since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010/11. With many of the Barclays Premier League's big guns having already been fired out of the competition, the manager believes West Ham have a great chance to go all the way to Wembley this season. "We've got a better chance than normal because we're not going to be drawing Manchester City or Chelsea or Tottenham and we've already seen off Everton, so that gives us a better chance. "It'll never be easy against a Middlesbrough or Bradford, but you would rather have them in the hat than a Chelsea, Tottenham or Manchester City. "Hopefully we'll get a good draw, a home draw and we can progress even farther than we have today."
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Jenko glad to come through tough test
WHUFC.com
Carl Jenkinson said the Hammers had to show their mettle to defeat Bristol City on Sunday
25.01.2015
Carl Jenkinson was not surprised by the questions asked of West Ham United by Sky Bet League One high-flyers Bristol City on Sunday. The Hammers progressed through to the fifth round of the FA Cup thanks to Diafra Sakho's 81st minute header, but not before the Robins had two Matt Smith efforts cleared off the line by Mark Noble and Andy Carroll. West Ham eventually took control of the contest to get their winner and on-loan right back Jenkinson was delighted to have thrown their name into the hat for Monday's draw. "It was always going to be that sort of FA Cup tie," he said. "It was very important to keep a clean sheet - we did that and scored a great goal. "It was difficult because they were a good side, especially in the first half. We came more into the game as it went on and to be fair they did get some balls into the box. They were a handful from set pieces as they had some big lads and we tried to nullify that as much as we could. "We did in the main - they didn't have too many clear cut chances other than a couple in the first half and we were always going to have to ride the storm a little bit. "We're very happy with the result in the end."
The Hammers have now kept successive clean sheets and Jenkinson knows how vital that is towards maintaining their good form - as well as the strikers being sharp in front of goal. He continued: "As a defender it's always nice to keep the ball out of the net - we've got a strong defensive unit now. That's not just the keeper and the back four but the midfield's doing a good job as well. "We have a good understanding. We're doing well defensively at the moment and that's a good sign. "Diafra knows where the back of the net is and it was a nice header. I think the credit has to go to Andy. He did some fantastic work out on the right and put in a tremendous ball. "It was a well-worked goal and I'm glad it was those two involved because they're our strikers and we want them getting goals."
Saturday may have been a day of dramatic FA Cup shocks, but West Ham did their bit to ensure Sunday was not a repeat, and having been involved in a cup winning effort with Arsenal last term, Jenkinson would love another tilt at glory. He continued: "We don't want to get too carried away but there were some good results yesterday for the smaller teams. We just think about ourselves and focused on our own game on Sunday. "We didn't worry about the upsets or who we would be getting in the next round. We focused on Bristol City and I think it worked. "It would be fantastic [to have another run]. Last year at Arsenal we took it one game at a time and that's what we've got to do here. "I think we're doing well at that. We're concentrating and taking it game-by-game - we're not getting too carried away whether it be in the league or the cup. "We've had a couple of good results now and it's important that we kick on because we have some tough fixtures coming up."
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Bristol City 0 West Ham 1
25 January 2015
Last updated at 16:33
By Steve Canavan
BBC Sport
Diafra Sakho headed a late winner as West Ham withstood a frantic start from Bristol City to book their place in the FA Cup fifth round.
The League One side dominated the opening exchanges at a sell-out Ashton Gate and striker Matt Smith twice had headers cleared off the line. But West Ham kept their composure and Sakho headed in Andy Carroll's tempting cross nine minutes from the end. Sakho, who came on as a 56th minute substitute, also hit the crossbar. Bristol City went into the contest in imperious form, on the back of four straight wins and with just one defeat in their last 12 outings. Much of the Robins' success in League One this season has been built on a strong defence. They have conceded just 22 goals in 25 league games and sit joint-top alongside Swindon. And Steve Cotterill's team began in confident fashion, with the pace of Luke Freeman and the height and physical presence of forward Smith causing the Hammers problems.
Twice Smith had headers cleared off the line, first by Mark Noble before Andy Carroll came to West Ham's rescue with a superb clearance after keeper Adrian was again beaten by Smith. Carroll had his arm raised but television replays showed he used his head to clear the ball.
The Hammers, who are seventh in the Premier League and unbeaten since the turn of the year, improved markedly after the break, especially after the introduction of Sakho and fellow substitute Morgan Amalfitano. Sakho gave warning of what was to come when he clipped the crossbar with a strong shot. His goal came courtesy of good work on the right by Carroll, who delivered an inviting cross which Sakho headed past Frank Fielding. Smith had one last headed attempt for the home side, connecting with Jay Emmanuel-Thomas's stoppage-time cross but he put his effort wide of the post. The Hammers had reached the fourth round courtesy of a 9-8 penalty shoot-out replay win over Everton and West Ham manager Sam Allardyce had made it clear to his players that he did not want to waste that hard work. After a weekend of shocks, with Chelsea and Manchester City losing, West Ham avoided going the same way.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce: "I knew it was going to be tough and it was exactly that. Bristol City showed why they are where they are in their league. "We found it difficult to get our passing game going but thankfully Andy's cross and Sakho's header was all we needed to get a very important win. "This is a pretty big result for us."
Bristol City boss Steve Cotterill: "We've played like that for most of the season but we had to score in that first half hour because our tempo was so good. "I was surprised at how many times we got a look at their goal. But overall I am very proud of the lads."
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All eyes on number 15
KUMb.com
Filed: Sunday, 25th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United have been allocated the number 15 ball for tomorrow night's FA Cup fifth round draw. The Hammers are in the pot having beaten Bristol City 1-0 at Ashton Gate this afternoon courtesy of Diafra Sakho's late strike, and join 20 other teams in the draw.
With half of the Premier League having been dumped out of the competition already, West Ham are now the third-highest ranked team left in the competition behind only Manchester United (fourth in the BPL table) and Arsenal (fifth). The draw takes place at 7.20pm (GMT) on Monday evening and may be seen live here on KUMB (link to be announced tomorrow). The full set of numbers for the fifth round draw are as follows:
1. Crystal Palace
2. Cambridge United or Manchester United
3. Blackburn Rovers
4. Bradford City
5. Derby County
6. Preston North End or Sheffield United
7. West Bromwich Albion
8. Aston Villa
9. Reading
10. Liverpool or Bolton
11. Leicester City
12. Arsenal
13. Rochdale or Stoke City
14. Sunderland or Fulham
15. West Ham
16. Middlesbrough
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce admits relief after 1-0 win at Bristol City
Last Updated: 25/01/15 5:56pm
SSN
Sam Allardyce admitted he was relieved after West Ham beat Bristol City 1-0 to avoid joining the list of big-name FA Cup fourth-round casualties. Substitute Diafra Sakho broke City hearts with an 81st-minute winner, rising at the far post to beat goalkeeper Frank Fielding after Andy Carroll had done well to cross from the right. The outcome was harsh on the League One high-flyers and Allardyce admitted to be fearing the worse early on. "I expected us to play a lot better than we did," Allardyce said. "In the end one moment of quality has put us in the next round and that is the most important thing. "All credit to Bristol City for never being overawed and taking their league form, which has been outstanding, into the FA Cup. Twice the visitors were forced to clear the ball off the line as Matt Smith caused the Hammers rearguard all sorts of problems, but Allardyce's men stood firm, and the West Ham boss believes withstanding the physicality of the home side was key to victory. "Keeping a clean sheet made all the difference and it was a hard-earned victory for us," Allardyce added. "They had their best spell in the opening 15 or 20 minutes, but we battled all the way through to make that one bit of quality count. "With the size Bristol have in their team, we knew we had to protect ourselves as best we could from set-pieces. We put players on each post because we felt at some point they would get headers at our goal and it proved a wise tactic. "How far we can go in the competition will depend on the draw. We will have to face Premier League opposition at some point if we progress, but I would rather leave that until the final!"
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Substitute Diafra Sakho grabs late winner as West Ham earn 1-0 win at Bristol City
By Pete Hall - @PeteHall86. Last Updated: 25/01/15 8:12pm
SSN
Substitute Diafra Sakho popped up at the back post to help West Ham secure a 1-0 win at Bristol City in the FA Cup fourth round. With the game seemingly heading for a replay, Andy Carroll picked out his strike partner Diafra Sakho with just nine minutes left to head the Hammers through. The League One high flyers looked like the Premier League team in the opening period as they played neat, intricate football to try and break the Premier League side down. Twice in the first half the visitors had to clear the ball off the line from Matt Smith headers, with Carroll's efforts underneath his own crossbar especially impressive. After the break the pace of the game slowed somewhat as West Ham started to get a foothold in the match. Sakho clipped the top of the crossbar with a thunderous strike from a tight angle as it looked like the visitors would be frustrated by the determined League One side. However, the Senegalese striker arrived in the right place at the right time after superb work from Carroll to pick him out to snatch victory for the Sam Allardyce's men as they continued to impress this season. Right from the word go, the home side showed why they are flying high in League One, and actually looked like they were the Premier League side as Sam Allardyce's men struggled to cope with their pace on the counter.
The first of Smith's chances came in just the fifth minute, as he looped a header form a corner over Adrian in the West Ham goal, but Mark Noble got behind his 'keeper to head away. West Ham struggled to get out of their own half early on as the Robins continued to dominate. Luke Freeman was the instigator of all that was good about the hosts, and he was inches away on several occasions from finding that killer pass. Smith then thought he had broken the deadlock with another powerful header, but Carroll brilliantly got his head to it to divert Smith's effort over the bar. Carroll was then at his favoured end of the pitch, getting on the end of a firm Carl Jenkinson cross, but his stab at goal was well saved by an otherwise untested Frank Fielding in the home goal. After the break the visitors came into the contest much more as the League One side tired. The arrival of Sakho and Morgan Amalfitano added more impetus to the Hammers attack, and along with Carroll, they started to cause the hosts some problems. Stewart Downing fired over the bar as he arrived late in the box before Sakho came mightily close to breaking the deadlock. Picking up the ball in a wide position, Sakho flicked the ball over his own head and unleashed a ferocious effort at goal, which beat Fielding, but clipped the top of the crossbar. The Senegalese hitman wasn't to be outdone however, but the plaudits must go to Carroll for the assist for West Ham's winner. The former Liverpool striker brought a bouncing ball under control and clipped a perfect cross to the back post which picked out an unmarked Sakho, who found the roof of the net from close range. Smith again looked most likely to get on the scoresheet for the home side, but his header in the dying moments flew just wide with Adrian struggling to get across. The result sees West Ham avoid being another Premier League scalp on a weekend of shocks, but the Robins can be proud of their efforts, as they more than held their own against superior opposition.
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Bristol City 0-1 West Ham: Diafra Sakho heads Hammers past the Robins into the fifth round
Jan 25, 2015 22:00 By Mike Walters
The Senegalese clambered off the bench to meet an Andy Carroll cross and ensure Sam Allardyce's men will be in the hat for Monday's draw
The Mirror
Andy Carroll was the headline act on Pie and Mash of the Day as gritty West Ham broke the cider house rules. Saviour at one end with a brilliant goalline clearance, Carroll created Diafra Sakho's 81st-minute winner at Ashton Gate. The Hammers lived dangerously at times, but 35 years after the Cup was paraded through the East End, Sam Allardyce's men are marching on Wembley again. Twelve months ago, Allardyce was clinging on to his job after losing 5-0 at Notingham Forest in the FA Cup and 9-0 on aggregate to Manchester City in the Capital One Cup semi-finals... but look at him now. So many big guns have fallen by the wayside, this could be the year he finally lands a trophy. "We were never at our best, but we did enough to get through to the next round, which is the most important thing," admitted Allardyce after surviving a scare in Cider country. "I told the players, 'Don't be victims, don't be another casualty of Cup shocks, make sure you are utterly professional in everything you do' – and they were. I'm just glad we are not one of the bigger teams crying all the way home this weekend, and in the end that one bit of quality we produced for the goal was all it needed. "As we have seen over the past couple of days, a team can be inspired by the FA Cup and although there is a big gap between the Premier League and the lower divisions in terms of finance, the gap in quality is not as big as everyone thinks. "Bristol City took their League form into this game and they were not overawed."
City boss Steve Cotterill can be chippier than Chippy Minton, the carpenter in toddlers' TV serial Trumpton, but he was entitled to go home with matching chips on each shoulder. Tenacious, spirited and well-organised, the Robins deserved a replay at Upton Park. For an hour, until Sakho joined the fray, City were more purposeful, more threatening, more convincing in all departments. Cotterill can be proud of the way his League One front runners gave the Hammers a fright, especially in the first half-hour when Mark Noble and, especially, Carroll were required to make urgent interventions to clear off the line from Matt Smith. And from an unfavourable angle, young midfielder Joe Bryan drove a decent chance beyond Adrian's left-hand post. But when Sakho replaced the ineffective Enner Valencia 12 minutes into the second half, West Ham were transformed from toothless to ruthless. Sakho soon made his presence felt by clipping the bar with a nifty half-volley, but City did not heed the warning and nine minutes from time the Senegalese striker delivered the proverbial knockout blow. Carroll, surging to the dead-ball line on the right-hand edge of the box, somehow managed to squeeze his cross to the far post, where Sakho – out injured since New Year's Day – rose to head his 10th goal of the season under the angle of bar and post.
Allardyce added: "One moment of quality has put us in the next round and that is the most important thing. "Keeping a clean sheet made all the difference and it was a hard-earned victory for us. They had their best spell in the opening 15 or 20 minutes, but we battled all the way through. "With the size Bristol have in their team, we knew we had to protect ourselves as best we could from set-pieces. We put players on each post because we felt at some point they would get headers at our goal – and it proved a wise tactic. "How far we can go in the competition will depend on the draw. We will have to face Premier League opposition at some point if we progress, but I would rather leave that until the final!"
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Cup glory can boost the Song cause!
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
An FA Cup winning season is likely to put another brick in the Alex Song wall! Until now all the talk has been of pride and glory but a winning appearance at Wembley in the final of this competition is far more important to West Ham than any of that, Generally speaking there are three UEFA Europa League places given to English clubs who fulfil the following criteria: winning the FA Cup, winning the Capital One Cup and finishing fifth in the Barclays Premier League.
This may well be our best chance of making Europe and and it would be a huge boost to our hopes of persuading Song his future is with us.
The Song issue has been way up on their on the agenda almost since he arrived and that's another reason why today's match takes on such an importance. Sam Allardyce says: "It is whether Alex wants to stay, if he wants to stay then I would want him to stay of course.
"Whether it is financially feasible we will see. If a greater size entices him away or if Alex says he wants to further his career with West Ham after what he has done this year, then great."
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Fletcher record makes grim reading
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Darren Fletcher remains at the centre of rumours tonight that he has – or is about – to sign a deal with the Irons in a deal driven entirely by manager Sam Allardyce. But none of our regular sources have confirmed that either a two and a half or three and a half year deal has been done on the 30 year old.
The player's injury track record remains a big worry for the 'financial heads' inside the club along with the fact that he has only completed two games for United this season.
And you have to ask if he's not good enough for the United first team why would consider him a prize acquisition. He lasted 90 minutes in two early season games against Swansea and Burnley, appeared for 63 mins against Sunderland, 25 against us, a minute apiece against Crystal Palace, Southampton and Arsenal, 16 mins against Hull, four against Stoke and 46 and 28 against Aston Villa and Newcastle.
He has spent 90 mins on the bench against QPR, Leicester City, Everton, West Brom, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool, Spurs and Stoke City and has not been involved in the squad over the last two games
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Super 'Sak' returns a conquering hero
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Priceless Diafra Sakho came off the bench to send the Irons into the velvet bag for the fifth round draw of the FA Cup. The striker rose at the far post (pictured) to head home an Andy Carroll cross from close range in the 81st minute on a comeback appearance. Sakho's goal was a massive relief given the pressure the Irons had been forced to soak up throughout the 80 minutes as the Keague One put the pressure on and never rook their foot off the gas. Giant striker Matt Smith was a constant threat seeing an early shot blocked by James Tomkins and presenting constant aerial problems. Mark Noble was forced to produce a clearing header off the line from the big man before Bryan shot wide of a far post with Adrian well beaten.
It was Smith though who dominated and his counterpart Andy Carroll was forced to clear off the Irons goal line again from another towering effort. The Hammers had been unable to find any rhythm or serious energy in a first half totally dominated by City although there were signs the Hammers were finding a toehold as the first half ended. Emmanuel-Thomas' had the first chance of the second half but although on target, Adrian was right behind his free kick, saving with ease. The arrival of Sakho though started to change the flow of the game and the Irons produced a good move which saw Cresswell cut the ball back for him but keeper Flint blocked. The Senegal hitman though was close when skimming the crossbar after bringing the ball under control brilliantly. And just six minutes later 'Sak' got his reward when Carroll's persistence on the right saw him make space for the cross and his partner arrived to crash home a header from close range. He then produced his trademark run to the fans arms crossed across his chest – he is the MAN! It was never easy. It was never pretty but after the shocks of yesterday we are through an looking towards Wembley.
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Fletcher: No deal…much doubt
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 25, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
No deal has yet been done to bring Darren Fletcher to Upton Park. Despite widespread rumours on forums that the player has agreed a three and a half year deal, ClaretandHugh has been told within the last few minutes: "There's no deal." And we also learned that the player will need to face a very stern medical should the club decide to push things further down the road. A top insider told us exclusively a few minutes ago: "There's no deal on Fletcher at this stage. He hasn't even had a medical yet and were we to go further with this, we would do a very strict medical." Whilst Sam Allardyce is desperately keen to push a deal through there remains much doubt about taking the player among important Boleyn 'faces.' One said: "It's very much a Sam deal. Some of us aren't so sure. He's obviously out of favour at Old Trafford. "There are doubts among several of us here and as I say he'll face a very strong medical before we even consider taking it further."
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Karren Brady reacts to West Ham United's win v Bristol City in FA Cup
HITC
Subhankar Mondal
1 hour ago
West Ham United edged past Bristol City 1-0 away from home in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday. West Ham United vice-chairman Karren Brady has taken to social networking site Twitter to revel in the team's success in the FA Cup. Premier League outfit West Ham booked their place in the fifth round of the prestigious competition with a narrow 1-0 victory over Bristol City on Sunday. Diafra Sakho's goal nine minutes from full time proved to be the difference between the two sides at the Ashton Gate Stadium. It was not the best of performances from the Hammers, who could have easily lost the fourth-round tie had City been able to take their chances.
That did not affect Brady's mood, though, as she was just pleased to see Sam Allardyce's side progress to the last-16 stage of the FA Cup. After the victory in Bristol, the West Ham vice-chairman took to Twitter to express her delight.
Karren Brady ✔ @karren_brady
So pleased - into the next round of the FA CUP, season just keeps getting better and better
West Ham are having a fabulous season and are very much in with a chance of finishing in the top four of the Premier League. The Hammers are currently seventh in the league table with 36 points from 22 matches, just four points behind fourth-placed Manchester United.
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