England U17 call for Hammers duo
WHUFC.com
Reece Oxford and Jahmal Hector-Ingram have been named in the England U17
squad
28.01.2015
Two West Ham United Academy prospects have been named in the England U17
squad for the Algarve Tournament in February. Defender Reece Oxford, who
recently put pen-to-paper on his first professional deal with the Club, and
striker Jahmal Hector-Ingram have both been called up by Young Lions coach
John Peacock for the four-team tournament. England will take on the
Netherlands, hosts Portugal and Germany over an intense five-day period,
which will serve as preparation for their UEFA U17 Championship Elite Round
qualifiers in March.
16-year-old Oxford has been capped eight times at this level already, while
Hector-Ingram has two goals to his name from six England U17 caps.
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FA Cup date set
WHUFC.com
The Hammers' FA Cup fifth-round tie at West Bromwich Albion will kick-off at
12.45pm on Saturday 14 February
28.01.2015
West Ham United can confirm that the FA Cup fifth-round tie at West Bromwich
Albion will kick-off at 12.45pm on Saturday 14 February. The Hammers can
also announce that the Club has received a full allocation of 5,500 Standard
tickets for the last-16 tie at The Hawthorns.
Standard tickets will be priced at £20 Adults, £15 Over-65s, £10 Under-21s
and £5 Under 17. Tickets will go on sale to supporters on the following
dates:
*Bond Holders/Corporate - 9am, Wednesday 4 February
*Priority Post Deadline - 5pm, Wednesday 4 February (for processing on
Thursday 5 February)
*Season Ticket Holders General Sale - 9am, Friday 6 February
*Academy/Youth Academy Members - 9am, Saturday 7 February
*General Sale - 10am, Sunday 8 February
Official Club Coaches will leave the Boleyn Ground at 8am, with seats priced
as follows:
*Season Ticket Holders and Academy Members - £22 Adults and £19 Concessions
*Non-Members - £27 Adults, £24 Over 65s/Under 16s
The Valentine's Day match will see the two sides meet for the third time
this season, with West Ham holding the edge in the two Barclays Premier
League meetings, winning 2-1 in the West Midlands in early December and
drawing 1-1 at the Boleyn Ground on New Year's Day.
West Ham have met West Brom five times previously in the FA Cup, winning
through on four occasions, including a third-round replay in January 1980 on
their way to lifting the trophy for a third time that May.
Prior to that, the first FA Cup meeting came in January 1913, when the
Hammers prevailed after a two first-round replays. In January 1933, West Ham
defeated the Baggies 2-0 in the third round on their way to the semi-finals.
In January 1953, West Brom scored their only FA Cup success over West Ham
with a 4-1 victory at the Boleyn Ground. More recently, West Ham triumphed
again in the third round in 1980 before scoring a 2-0 third-round victory at
The Hawthorns in January 1993.
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The Big Interview - Terry Westley
WHUFC.com
Academy Manager Terry Westley wants to produce more first team players
28.01.2015
West Ham United Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development
Terry Westley is excited about the Academy prospects Reece Oxford and Joe
Powell who recently signed professional contracts.
In an exclusive interview with whufc.com, we talk to the experienced coach
about the importance of promoting players above their age groups, the
restructuring of the Academy and producing more first team players.
Terry, fantastic news that Reece Oxford and Joe Powell have signed
professional contracts with the club, how happy does that make you?
TW: "I think that because we've got them long term we can plan for the next
four years. This allows us to put things in place, ensure that they develop
and make sure they become first team players. "First and foremost, we are
delighted that they have committed to the club, but from a developer's point
of view it gives me time now to work with them. They both have all the
ingredients to become first team players."
Reece in particular has attracted a lot of attention recently, there was
interest from a lot of other clubs, so does keeping him here send out a
message that the Academy means business?
TW: "Yes I think it has made a statement to other clubs out there that we're
not going to let our best players leave. There was a lot of interest with
Joe as well, which is why we needed to offer them a contract and get them
committed to a long term programme. "They now have a great opportunity to
become first team players sometime in the near future. We look at it in
terms of four year cycles, like the Olympics. You concentrate on London
2012, and then focus on Rio 2016. The gold medal for us is young players
playing first team football in the new stadium."
There is a tradition at West Ham of producing young players, how important
is it for these two players as well as their contemporaries to continue this
tradition?
TW: "I hope it sends out a sign to the other four boys that we've offered
contracts to. They have a future here and we have committed to keeping our
best players here. "We want to go back to that culture of West Ham
producing their own. We are all behind that here, the first team staff, the
manager and the owners have particularly backed us on these signings. So
I've got a big smile on my face that we signed Reece and Joe and hopefully
we'll get a few more signed soon."
For the fans who haven't seen Reece or Joe play before, what can you tell us
about them?
TW: "Joe Powell is a real attacker. He can beat people, come off the right
wing and hit shots with his left foot. He comes from a family with a
pedigree that have played, his brother was here and he now plys his trade at
Millwall in the first team. He's the right shape, good athleticism, mentally
tough enough and he's got the ability to become a professional player. "With
Reece, I think everyone is seeing, if you're a West Ham supporter there was
interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal. Having seen
him play for England, as captain across Europe, he is one of the best
centre-backs in Europe. He's got a big future and we hope to see them both
one day in the first team."
Both are U16s who have played in older age groups, does that show the
potential that they have?
TW: "Yes, and that has got to continue. If you are an U16 you've got to be
playing U18 football, if you are an U18 you have to be playing
U21s. And if you are an early developer you can push on into the U21s which
is what Reece has done that."
There's been a restructuring at the top for the U21s with Steve Potts coming
in from the U18s, can you explain the thinking behind that?
TW: "At U21 level we believe you need coaches rather than managers, so Steve
has joined the U21s as a coach and will continue to work across age groups.
We believe he can still work with the U16s and U18s which will benefit them.
His knowledge and experience can really help them. His work with the U21s is
also important so there is a sense of continuity. So that is first in my
mind. "Steve is committed to the club, he's got two boys in the system,
Freddie at U11 and Dan in the U21s. Given the amount of times he played for
the club he is a legend. He's dedicated and hardworking and a very important
member of staff at the Academy. Hopefully these conditions will help him to
flourish. I want to see our staff work across a number of age ranges."
As you say, Steve has been a big part of the Academy for a number of years.
First with the U16s, then the U18s and now U21s...
TW: "Yes, and that will go with all the staff across the Academy. James Rowe
is a talented coach, he's young but he wants to improve. One week he may
work with the U18s, the next week the U10s. Mark Phillips is the same, U14s
and U18s. That is the structure that we're working with."
Finally, how important is the U21s as a bridge between the Academy and the
first team?
TW: "Yep, that's the next challenge. Once we've got the structure in place
and we secure signatures of players, the next step is getting players into
the first team. Rio Ferdinand was 17 when he was around the first team,
Frank Lampard the same, Joe Cole, the list is endless. We have to get back
to that. James Tomkins and Mark Noble are regular first team players, so we
need to produce more."
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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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Young pair depart
WHUFC.com
Development Squad duo Jamie Harney and Danny Whitehead have both left West
Ham United
28.01.2015
Development Squad duo Jamie Harney and Danny Whitehead have both left West
Ham United. Northern Ireland U21 international centre-back Harney (pictured)
has turned his loan spell with League One club Colchester United into a
permanent move. The 18-year-old has made one first-team appearance for the
U's since moving to the Essex outfit in November 2014.
Midfielder Whitehead (below), who was signed from Conference National side
Stockport County in summer 2013, has had his contract with the Hammers
cancelled with immediate effect. The 21-year-old made one first-team
appearance for the Hammers in an FA Cup third-round tie at Nottingham Forest
in January 2014.
West Ham United would like to thank both Jamie and Danny for their hard work
and wish them all the best for their future careers.
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Stephen Hendrie: West Ham in talks with Hamilton full-back
BBC.co.uk
Hamilton Accies left-back Stephen Hendrie has flown to London to hold
signing talks with West Ham United. Hendrie, 20, is out of contract at the
end of the season and could agree a pre-contract deal to join the English
Premier League club in the summer. Accies vice-chairman Ronnie MacDonald
last week criticised the London club, claiming that a transfer fee in excess
of £2m had been agreed. He said Hendrie agreed terms but that West Ham did
not complete the deal. MacDonald was irked because a fee had been agreed
with Crystal Palace for the 20-year-old product of Accies' youth system
before the Hammers made their interest known. The Scottish Premiership
outfit had been keen to sell during the January transfer window rather than
wait for compensation in the summer. However, it now looks likely that the
Scotland Under-21 international will remain at New Douglas Park for the rest
of the season. Hendrie, who had also been linked with Celtic, made his debut
for Accies aged 16 and has made 97 appearances for the club.
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West Ham's Jamie Harney makes permanent Colchester switch
BBC.co.uk
Colchester United have signed defender Jamie Harney on a free transfer from
Premier League club West Ham. The 18-year-old, who has made one substitute
appearance for the U's since joining on loan in November, has signed a deal
until 2016. He can play either centre-half or right-back, but has mostly
featured for Colchester's Under-21 side since moving from the Hammers.
Harney has been is capped at age group levels up to U21 by Northern Ireland.
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Ravel Morrison: West Ham midfielder in Italy for Lazio talks
BBc.co.uk
West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison has travelled to Italy for talks with a
view to signing a pre-contract agreement with Lazio, with the Premier League
club's consent. It had been reported the Hammers had blocked Morrison, 21,
from travelling to Italy over a breach of his contract. However, it is
understood the delay was down to existing training commitments. If he signs
for Lazio they would become Morrison's sixth club in a career blemished by
off-field controversies. Earlier this month the Crown Prosecution Service
dropped all charges against the England Under-21 international pertaining to
allegations that he assaulted his former girlfriend and her mother.
Morrison would become the first Englishman to play for Lazio since Paul
Gascoigne's spell with with the Italian outfit from 1992 to 1995, should the
deal go through.
Here BBC Sport looks at the ups and downs of Morrison's career.
'Better out of Manchester'
Ex-Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson said Morrison was "better out of
Manchester" Former United manager Sir Alex Ferguson once claimed the
14-year-old Morrison was the most talented youngster he had seen at the club
since the schoolboy Paul Scholes and handed him a first-team debut in the
League Cup in 2010 against Wolves. Morrison won the FA Youth Cup with
United, but only managed a further two senior appearances in the League Cup
in the 2011-12 campaign. With his contract set to expire in the summer of
2012, Ferguson allowed Morrison to join West Ham in January of that year.
Ferguson labelled the player's contract demands "unrealistic" and said he
was "better out of Manchester" because of his troubles away from football.
A temperamental talent, transformed...
Morrison was branded "the best footballer since Gascoigne" by former Blues
boss Lee Clark in 2014 After just one appearance in the Championship in the
2011-12 season for West Ham following his transfer to Upton Park, Hammers
boss Sam Allardyce sent Morrison out on a season-long loan to Birmingham
City in the following campaign. The then Birmingham boss, Lee Clark, praised
Morrison for transforming his approach to football after the player overcame
an uncertain start to life at St Andrew's, in which Clark considered
terminating the loan, to become a consistent performer. "The conversation we
had a couple of weeks ago seems to have done the trick," Clark told BBC WM
in October 2012 as he insisted the player had turned a corner. "Since then
he's been nothing short of brilliant in terms of his application and his
attitude."
Flawed genius
Morrison has been described as "a fantastic talent" by QPR boss Harry
Redknapp Morrison forced his way into Allardyce's team in the first half of
the 2013-14 season and produced some eye-catching performances as he scored
five goals in his first 12 games for the Hammers.
The playmaker's most memorable goal came in West Ham's 3-0 win over
Tottenham in October 2013 when he effortlessly glided from his own half and
through the Spurs defence before ending the run with a chipped finish.
Allardyce described it as a "bit of genius" and said Morrison had "sorted
himself out".
Broken relationship
Morrison was called up to the England Under-21 squad the same month, but he
subsequently fell out of favour with Allardyce, who claimed the player
overstated minor injury problems. Allardyce also denied allegations in the
Guardian newspaper that his relationship had broken down with Morrison in
relation to a disagreement over agents.
'Greatest player since Gascoigne'
The precocious performer scored six goals in 17 appearances for QPR Despite
Morrison's early season form for West Ham, which saw him talked of as a
possible contender for England's 2014 World Cup squad and helped him draw
praise from Roy Hodgson, his differences with Allardyce saw him sent on loan
to Championship side QPR in February 2014. Alluding to Morrison and
Everton's Ross Barkley, Hodgson told BBC Radio 5 live's Sportsweek in
December 2013: "These two must realise we do have great faith in them and
enormous admiration for their talent." After Morrison scored two brilliant
goals in QPR's 2-0 win over Birmingham , Blues boss Lee Clark labelled him
"the best footballer since Paul Gascoigne" . Clark had been a former
team-mate of Gascoigne at Newcastle. Under Harry Redknapp's management
Morrison played a key role in QPR's promotion-winning campaign and finished
the season with a combined total of 11 goals in 38 appearances for QPR and
West Ham.
L'enfant terrible
Morrison has made seven appearances for Cardiff City in his loan spell at
the Welsh club A couple of appearances for West Ham at the start of the
2014-15 season suggested Morrison was back in Allardyce's thoughts, but he
was then loaned out for a third time to a second tier club in September 2014
when he joined Cardiff on a three-month deal. Morrison revealed he had
started to learn French while at the Welsh club, but returned to West Ham
early because of personal reasons. Allardyce said following Morrison's
return to Upton Park that he was in despair at watching the 21-year-old
"wasting his talent".
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West Ham United rising high in all-time chart
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 28th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are just two wins away from becoming the 15th most successful
English league club of all time. Last year the Hammers surpassed both Leeds
United and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the all-time points list for the
English Premier League/old Division One. Now, just two more wins would see
them join Derby County on 2,510 points - although West Ham have played 2,304
top-flight matches to achieve that total and the Rams, 2,468. Whilst that
particular target should be easily attainable before the end of the current
campaign, at this season's rate of 1.64 points per match it will take the
Irons approximately four-and-a-half years to surpass the team immediately
above them. That's current Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, who have
a total of 2,781 points! West Ham are one of only four clubs in the top 20
never to have won the Division One/Premier League title; the others being
West Brom, Bolton and Middlesbrough.
English Premier League : All Time Table (Top 20)
* Denotes club not currently in the Premier League. Average points per game
in parenthesis. Points total based upon points-per-win system applicable at
the time.
1. Liverpool Pld 3966 Pts 5350
2. Arsenal Pld 3966 Pts 5291
3. Everton Pld 4350 Pts 5158
4. Manchester United Pld 3610 Pts 5088
5. Aston Villa Pld 4016 Pts 4679
6. Chelsea Pld 3230 Pts 3988
7. Tottenham Hotspur Pld 3226 Pts 3947
8. Manchester City Pld 3438 Pts 3860
9. Newcastle United Pld 3334 Pts 3785
10. Sunderland Pld 3248 Pts 3424
11. West Bromwich Albion Pld 2978 Pts 2996
12. Blackburn Rovers * Pld 2720 Pts 2947
13. Bolton Wanderers * Pld 2802 Pts 2824
14. Sheffield Wednesday * Pld 2582 Pts 2781
15. Derby County * Pld 2468 Pts 2510
16. West Ham United Pld 2304 Pts 2504
17. Wolverhampton Wanderers * Pld 2422Pts 2480
18. Leeds United * Pld 2060 Pts 2455
19. Nottingham Forest * Pld 2178 Pts 2404
20. Middlesbrough * Pld 2400 Pts 2401
The current Premier League clubs outside of the all-time Top 20 are Stoke
City (22nd, 2,146 points), Burnley (24th, 2,065 points), Leicester City
(25th, 1,856 points), Southampton (26th, 1,772 points), Queens Park Rangers
(35th, 1,050 points), Crystal Palace (42nd, 582 points), Swansea City (49th,
275 points) and Hull City (52nd, 121 points).
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Kouyate could make Liverpool comeback
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 28th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Senegal's elimination from the African Cup of Nations may have been bad news
for the West African nation - but potentially a huge boost for West Ham
ahead of this coming weekend's trip to Liverpool. Chiekhou Kouyate - who
played a full 90 minutes in Senegal's 2-0 defeat against Algeria, one that
sent them tumbling out of the competition - will now return to West Ham
sooner than expected. That means the midfielder should return to England
this week - and possibly in time to face Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday
afternoon, according to co-chairman David Gold.
Kouyate, who joined West Ham last June in a £7million switch from Anderlecht
has made 16 appearances for United since moving to England - all in the
Premier League. His only goal so far came in the 2-1 defeat at home to
Arsenal on 28 December.
* Senegal's exit also meant the end of the road for head coach Alain
Giresse, who yesterday complained bitterly about Diafra Sakho's inclusion in
West Ham's match day squad for the FA Cup tie with Bristol City. "I am out
of contract. My contract has finished," he said. "The road ends here for
Senegal. There will be a lot of changes in and around the team. What happens
next I don't know, but I know what I am going to do."
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Stephen Hendrie to sign pre-contract agreement
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 28th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
Hamilton Academicals full back Stephen Hendrie is on his way to London in
order to sign for West Ham, say reports north of the border.
The 20-year-old left-sided defender will sign a pre-contract agreement with
West Ham allowing him to move South in the summer upon the expiry of his
current contract (Daily Record). Although Hendrie had hoped to complete his
move to London this month, before the end of the current transfer window the
two clubs were unable to agree terms. That particular deal was cancelled
last week by the Accies, whose vice-chairman Ronnie MacDonald blasted West
Ham for their conduct during negotiations. "The fee was agreed, Stephen
agreed personal terms through his agent and they were meant to come up to
our place on New Year's Day to sign off the deal and didn't appear. They
then said they would up on the 4th but didn't appear so I just cancelled the
deal. "I'm getting phone calls from London saying they want to resurrect it
but as fas as I'm concerned it's off. I think West Ham are shambolic and if
that's how they carry on their business that's up to them, They should do
things properly."
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We'll have Lassana
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 28th January 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are reported to be monitoring free agent Lassana Diara's planned
move to Inter. TuttoMercatoWeb claim that West Ham, along with German club
Hamburg are waiting in the wings should the French midfielder's move to
Roberto Mancini's Serie A side fall through. Although technically a free
agent Diarra is still involved in a legal dispute with former club Lokomotiv
Moscow, who sacked him in August 2014 after the former French international
failed to turn up for training. That led to Celtic dropping a planned bid to
sign the 29=year-old earlier in the season and has thus far prevented the
Italians from completing their approach. Diarra has several years'
experience of Premier League football having previously featured for
Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth. However it is six years now since he left
Portsmouth to join Real Madrid, since when he has represented Russian clubs
Anzhi Makhachkala and Moscow - for whom he last featured in July 2014.
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West Ham's Ravel Morrison in Rome to finalise Lazio deal
Last Updated: 28/01/15 12:36pm
SSN
Ravel Morrison has arrived in Rome to finalise his pre-contract agreement
with Lazio. The midfielder's West Ham deal is up at the end of the season
which means he is entitled to negotiate with European clubs. And an
agreement to join Serie A Lazio this summer should be sealed if the England
U21 passes a medical. Morrison came through the ranks at Manchester United,
where he was highly thought of, but disciplinary issues contributed to their
decision to sell him to West Ham three years ago. The 21-year-old has since
spent time on loan at Birmingham, QPR and Cardiff and last appeared in the
Premier League back in August.
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THE BIG QUESTION: WILL THE OLYMPIC STADIUM IMPROVE OUR PERFORMANCES?
By Bobby Shovels 28 Jan 2015 at 15:00
West Ham till I Die
In the early days of our muted move to Stratford, I was a fervent opponent.
Why not rebuild the Chicken Run? Do we really want a running track in a
stadium that is not purely our own? What about the aura of the Boleyn?
Another stadium banished to the history books like The Dell, the Baseball
Ground, Roker Park and Highbury.
That pessimism has had to give way to reality, as well as democracy, after a
supporter poll found strong backing for our move from E13 to E20 (the
ground, not the nightclub in EastEnders). I had to understand that despite
my misgivings about the business of football, money matters and the added
revenue and the surge in executive packages would help solidify West Ham's
place among the country's elite.
However, my pessimism – like any West Ham fan's worries – has not completely
died and I was reminded of this while listening to a podcast from a few
years back. It cited a 2003 report by Thomas Dohmen, from Bonn's Institute
for the Study of Labor, that looked at 3,519 matches over 12 Bundesliga
seasons. The title of the study was, "In Support of the Supporters? Do
Social Forces Shape Decisions of the Impartial?"
Of course, as with any such report, the title doesn't do the paper justice.
What Dohmen found was that in football (well, German football at least)
referees were influenced by the crowd and often ended up favouring home
teams. This took the form of lengthening games when the home was behind by
one goal, especially when the crowd was dominated by a large section of home
fans. Referees were even found to favour the home side in terms of penalty
kick and goal decisions.
Yet here's the big takeaway: the report found that the strength of a
referee's favouritism depended on the crowd's closeness to the pitch and was
even influenced by the presence of a running track separating the home fans
from the pitch. Such was the case in Berlin and Munich's Olympic stadiums.
"A remarkable finding is also that more penalties are awarded in stadiums
without a running track," Dohmen said. "Strikingly, given that a penalty was
awarded, the decision was more likely to be correct when the game took place
in a stadium in which a track separates the stands from the field."
His conclusion: "A likely explanation for the observed behaviour is that
referees are emotionally influenced by the atmosphere in the stadium."
Now, there are many problems with the study: in the year the report was
published, Bayern Munich won the Bundesliga while playing in a stadium with
a running track. Furthermore, the report only surveyed German football and,
perhaps more importantly, you can't say a referee is the most important
determinant in the outcome of a football match.
You may also add that our stadium has retractable seating – yet I still
remain to be convinced by this plan and there are already concerns about a
sizeable gap between the fixed upper tier and retractable lower tier.
My history may be blinkered, but I certainly feel that West Ham's home
advantage was far more evident during the days when the West Stand had not
become the behemoth it is now, and with the pitch shifting away from the
boisterous Chicken Run. In the fifth-placed finish of 1999, we won 11 of our
19 home games, losing only 5.
In fact, a quick bit of dodgy maths: I looked at the average number of home
games we lost in the 12 seasons since 2002 (just after the West Stand was
built) and compared that to the 12 seasons before. On average, before the
new stand was built, we lost 4.91 home games per season; since then, it's
been 6.58.
Now, in the years since the West Stand was built we've spent a couple of
seasons in the Championship, so we had to play more games. Yet arguably,
maybe we went down because the atmosphere was just not as intimidating?
Then again, it could just have been about the lack of decent football,
something Dohmen's report did not look into either. So maybe the conclusion
is much simpler: just play good football in the new ground.
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MOURINHO'S ALLEGED INTEREST SHOULD STEEL WEST HAM'S RESOLVE TO RETAIN
VALENCIA!
By S J Chandos 28 Jan 2015 at 08:00
West Ham Till I Die
Are we determined to continue moving forward as a club? Is this season the
start of a process of positive transformation or is it merely a brief
interlude, which will see us return to our former status as a club of
perpetual underachievement? As rumours circulate about West Ham cashing-in
on Enner Valencia, these are pertinent questions. Last summer we completed
the major overhaul of the squad that was so urgently required and it has
paid enormous dividends. It has turned us in to serious contenders for a top
six PL finish and rendered last season's struggles a distant memory. Now, we
must retain our best players, move out those players surplus to requirements
and add yet further quality to the squad. We do not need to sell a striker
of great quality, such as Valencia, who is still settling in to the English
game. And certainly not mere months after his arrival and to a team like
Chelsea!
Enner Valencia will come good and I want to see him do it in a West Ham
shirt, not the blue of Chelsea FC. Certainly, Jose Mourinho knows quality
when he sees it and his alleged interested should steel West Ham's resolve
to retain the player. Valencia needs to adjust to the physical side of the
English game and develop his striking partnerships with Carroll & Sakho. It
will happen, we fans need to be patient and Valencia must continue to work
at his game. And conversely, Sam Allardyce also needs to start playing to
Valencia's obvious strengths, particularly his lightening pace. More
accurate balls need to be played forward, in to space, to allow him to
capitalise on his pace and finishing ability.
So, as far as I am concerned, the club should defintely rebuff Chelsea's
overtures and retain the striking triumvirate of Carroll, Valencia and
Sakho. Moreover, We need to ensure stability in the quality core of the
squad. That needs to be accompanied by an ongoing process of continuous
improvement, adding players of greater quality in each window and increasing
competition for places. If a player of quality moves on (a la the
possibility of Winston Reid leaving on a Bosman) then we must set ourselves
the ambitious objective of always replacing them with a player of equal or
greater quality. That is the recipe for sustained success. And I sincerely
hope that this will soon involve not only incoming transfers, but also the
elevation out own young players via the Academy. I have high hopes of Reece
Burke successfully making the first team transition and we can take great
confidence from the fact that such outstanding prospects as Oxford and Borg
are currently in the pipeline.
One hopes that David Sullivan stands by his expressed resolve to retain our
best players and that he rejects any bid for Valencia. Similarly, I cannot
say that I am too keen on the proposed Darren Fletcher deal. I am sure
Fletcher has been a very good player for Man Utd in the past, but we must
think seriously before signing a 30 year old, with a recent history of
health problems, on an alleged £60,000 a week, three and a half year
contract. With Kouyate's impending early return from the African Cup of
Nations, do we really need Fletcher? I would prefer another midfielder, who
could compete with Downing for the spot at the offensive apex of the
midfield diamond. Moreover, with Morrison's seemingly inevitable exit in the
summer, would it not be a positive step to line up a move for a youngster of
comprarable promise. One such prospect that West Ham could consider bidding
for is Derby County's outstanding midfielder starlet, Will Hughes. The
acquisition of Hughes would be a real transfer coup, which would send out
another clear and positive indicator that West Ham have ambition and are
moving in the right direction.
Certainly, we need to move heaven and earth to sign Song and Jenkinson next
summer. Both players have been instrumental to our success this season. Song
will command a hefty fee and a substantial wage package, but quality always
costs! It will be a major mistake to let Liverpool, Arsenal or Man City
steal Song away from us. While, Jenkinson will probably not cost the quoted
£12m fee. It is much more likely to be in the region of c.£6m and that is a
fair transfer fee for a young player of Jenkinson's ability and potential to
develop and progress. It has been confirmed that the club will have a
substantial transfer/wages budget next summer and appropriate resources need
to be committed, as a priority, to secure Song and Jenkinson on long-term
contracts.
Currently, in this window, it would appear that the club are making new
overtures to sign Hamiliton left-back, Stephen Hendrie. While, there are
rumours that Dan Potts is considering a possible move to Blackpool FC. It
may prove to be a loan move, but if Hendrie does join then that could mean
that a permanent deal is on the cards for Potts. We shall see? There is also
talk of the likes of WBA and Cardiff City making a loan move for Matt
Jarvis. Personally, I would be surprised if Jarvis moved, at least in the
January window. Arguably, we need to retain the wide options guaranteed by
his continued inclusion in the squad. While, it will also be very
interesting to see how Don Henry shapes up and whether Marcus Nilsson's
current trial proves successful?
Finally, it appears that the Senegelese FA have made a complaint to FIFA
about Sakho's participation in our FA Cup tie at Bristol City. It has been
reported that they are pushing for a ban for Sakho until the end of the
African Cup of Nations competition and a possible FA Cup expulsion for the
club! In the meantime, West Ham intend to include Sakho in the squad for the
forthcoming PL fixture at Anfield. And quite rightly so! Talking of Anfield,
this would really prove to be a notable season if we could manage to grab
our first win there since 1963-64! Surely, what is probably the longest
hoodoo in English football has to end at some point? Could this be the
season? Lets hope so.
SJ. Chandos.
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West Ham deny any wrongdoing over Diafra Sakho injury row as Senegal lodge
FIFA complaint
15:44, 28 January 2015 By Darren Lewis
The 24-year-old withdrew from the Africa Cup of Nations only to feature
against Bristol City last weekend as the club vs country row continues
The Mirror
West Ham insist they will be vindicated in the escalating club v country row
over striker Diafra Sakho. Sakho, 25, is facing a ban after his country
Senegal made an official complaint to FIFA about him playing in the FA Cup
for West Ham. The Lions, knocked out of the Africa Cup of Nations on
Tuesday, remain angry that Sakho withdrew from their squad before the
tournament with a back injury. Senegal officials are particularly upset at
not being able to examine the frontman themselves because West Ham insisted
he could not fly. The Hammers, however, strongly deny any wrongdoing and
insist they have not pulled a fast one. Co-owner David Sullivan has stressed
they have been acting solely on the advice of leading medical professionals.
He said: "Any FIFA hearing will vindicate us. The player missed four games
as a result of injuries incurred whilst playing for Senegal. We have done
nothing untoward." To prove their point, Sakho will be driven north by West
Ham while his team-mates are flying to Merseyside to play against Brendan
Rodgers' men on Saturday. Senegal national team coach, Alain Giresse, saw
red after Sakho played against Bristol City on Sunday and insisted the
Hammers are opening the door for other players to follow suit. Giresse
fumed: "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." Sakho came on in the 57th minute of the FA Cup Fourth Round tie
and scored the winning goal. Giresse said afterwards: "I'm surprised to
learn he played." Sakho was also criticised in his homeland and took to
social media to defend himself, writing: "Never doubt the lion sleeping in
me, as I never doubt the passion that burns within you.".
West Ham, however, maintain they are following the advice of leading
specialists who have warned that the player is prohibited from flying. As
such, Sakho also travelled to Bristol by road on Sunday while his team-mates
were flown from London. But Giresse said: "When you cannot fly for six weeks
and then suddenly you're playing a football game, there must be miraculous
medicine in England."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Winston Reid proved West Ham are still on his mind with fine Bristol City
showing
11:06, 28 January 2015
OPINION BY STEVESTAMMERS
The New Zealand international is out of contract and looks all set to leave
Upton Park - his performance at Ashton Gate shows he'll be missed
The Mirror
There were several players who emerged with immense credit for West Ham's
win at Bristol City. It was an FA Cup tie that no-one in the Premier League
would have relished – especially in light of the carnage the day before when
Manchester City, Chelsea and Tottenham all had their dreams dashed in
spectacular fashion. But West Ham were ultra-professional. The first 20
minutes were always going to be crucial and West Ham survived. Andy Carroll
showed just what a fit Andy Carroll is capable of achieving. James Tomkins
grows in stature with every game. And Mark Noble was just the kind of
midfield player you need on a January afternoon in the West Country when the
going is tough. But if one man warrants a special mention, it is Winston
Reid. Everyone in the East End knows that the New Zealander is on his way –
either in the next six days when the winter transfer window is still open or
in the summer when it opens again for business.
Come June, he will be on a free transfer. An an extremely lucrative one at
that. Manager Sam Allardyce is already making preparations for that
eventuality and his central defence of choice since it became clear that
Reid would not sign a new deal has been Tomkins and James "The Ginger Pele"
Collins. But Collins was injured and Allardyce drafted in Reid. And Reid
looked anything but disinterested in what was a major test of his
professionalism. In short, he was outstanding – especially against a huge
mountain of a striker in Matt Smith. The man on loan from Fulham is a
genuine handful but Reid handled any threat with calm, with aggression when
needed and with immense composure. Many in his position would not have
fancied the demands of last Sunday afternoon and participation in a frantic
cup tie that would test nerve and character. Reid passed that test – and
credit to him because his mind could easily have been elsewhere.
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Massive Dev Squad clear-out on the way
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 28, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are set to stage a massive cull of the Development Squad over the
next few weeks. The club confirmed today that Jamie Harney and Danny
Whitehead have both have both left West Ham United. And this follows
announcements on their social media channels that Ben Marlow and Kieron
Bywater will not be signing new contracts. Colchester United later announced
they had signed former Hammers U21 defender Harney on a free transfer
following his release.
It won't stop there with no news of contract offers to 14 others -Danny
Potts, Elliot Lee, Seb Lletget, Paul Mccallum, Lewis Page, Taylor Tombides,
Josh Cullen, Balir Tugott, Matthias Fanimo, Kieran Sadlier, Raphael Spiegel,
Moses Makasi, Nathan Mavila, Amos Nasha and Sam Westley.
If all of them leave the club in addition to the four already named it will
be a complete clear out of the Academy built by Tony Carr and Nick Haycock.
Terry Westley took over the Academy last Summer with Steve Potts announced
as the Under 21 manager last week. It is understood Terry has been tasked by
the board with getting return on the £4m plus investment made into the
Academy every year. The Hammers U21's remain bottom of the Premier League
U21 league with eight points after losing eight of their 12 games this
season.
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Cardiff Jarvis wage share makes "zero sense"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 28, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Matt Jarvis is set to stay at Upton Park despite Cardiff City's attempts to
take him to the club on loan. The Hammers have reacted to stories linking
him with the club making it clear that as things stand the winger will stay
where he is. A source told ClaretandHugh: "It's correct that Cardiff have
asked to take him but the terms aren't good enough for us to do the deal.
"Cardiff want to pay half his wages but that made zero sense to us given
that we could be left short on numbers at some stage." However should the
Welsh club to come back with an improved offer a deal could still be done
but that doesn't look likely.
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Morrison off to Rome
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 28, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Ravel Morrison has flown to Rome and looks set to finally put pen to paper
on a pre-contract with Italian club Lazio assuming he passes a medical.
Because he has already played for two clubs this season – West Ham and
Cardiff City, he is not permitted to play for a third club meaning he will
have to wait until the summer before he can wear a Lazio shirt. West Ham
will continue to pay Ravel Morrison's wages of £15,000 per week until the
end of his contract in the summer adding another £300,000 to the player who
will leave on a free transfer.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Senegal spite unfair on Sakho
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on January 28, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Well it seems as if Senegal are ready to spill as much West Ham blood as
possible in general and Diafra Sakho's in particular. And whilst we should
all spare a little sympathy for them following a shock exit from the African
Cup of Nations and Sakho's inability to help them out, coach Alain Giresse
and the National Federation do seem to be pushing things perhaps a tad too
far. Seeking revenge on the striker and his club for allegedly misleading
them over his back injury maybe understandable to some but is entirely
pointless in reality.
Nor does it help the player before his international career has begun and is
in my view very unfair to him because they were offered every opportunity to
check things out. Club v country rows are as old as the hill and entirely
boring – this one has been made into one of the most unpleasant. I have
little doubt that West Ham did all they could to persuade the player to stay
at Upton Park prior to the injury- none of us are stupid are we? They wanted
their prize asset available and after the injury he sustained at the hands
of the national team on his last excursion to Africa that was
understandable. However, he was injured against West Brom and as a result
the club sent all the medical reports to his national team and even invited
them to London to check him out themselves. They flatly chose not to do so
and thus any view they may have of his injury is entirely invalid and should
surely not be taken seriously by Fifa. Senegal were told the player would be
out for up to six weeks. He came back after three so where exactly is their
complaint. Giresse has shown himself to have a very big mouth – shame he
didn't save some of the words for his medics by ordering them to London to
check the player. He now stands on the sidelines issuing of unpleasant and
malicious remarks about miracle cures in England and suchlike. I hope he has
a Twitter account – many love that sort of crap on there. You can have your
suspicions but to voice them at Fifa based on no evidence whatsoever when in
fact you were offered the opportunity is stupid and ill informed. Any
complaint should go absolutely nowhere! Senegal have nothing to gain from
this little bit
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Irons clear up OS banding worries
Posted by Sean Whetstone on January 28, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
The Hanmmers have cleared up confusion caused to season ticket holders in
Sir Trevor Brooking upper after the West Ham Olympic Stadium migration
brochure sent to over 21,000 season ticket holders appeared to show they
have been moved from band 4 to band 3. Claret and Hugh has been told by a
senior club source the problem was caused by a printing error and fans
should not worry. Concern was growing in social media that West Ham were
planning to move the Family enclosure from price band 4 to price band in the
Olympic Stadium with one fan tweeting chairman David Gold to demand answers.
A senior source told Claret and Hugh "In the Boleyn/Migration brochure there
is a printing error on the Boleyn Ground seating map which wrongly
classifies the existing Sir Trevor Upper as Band 3 not Band 4 (a difference
in the shade of blue). "The error has been rectified on the websites and we
have explained the mistake to a few supporters who have enquired as they
sit in that area and were understandably perplexed. "As you know the banding
for the OS has yet to been released so I can only assume that supporters
have noticed the apparent change in banding and presumed it was a precursor
to a change at the OS. The family area at the OS will remain Band 4 although
it may increase in size to encompass other bands (thereby offering more
choice to families). "I am very confident that supporters will believe we
are staying true to our commitment to affordable family football when the
pricing structure is released."
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Thursday, January 29
Wednesday, January 28
Daily WHUFC News - 28th January 2015
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
'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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
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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!!!!
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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.
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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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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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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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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."
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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
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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!
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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."
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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.
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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.
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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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