From the Academy
WHUFC.com
West Ham United Academy Director Terry Westley updates us on all things Academy
11.02.2015
Hello everyone.
It has been a while since I've had the opportunity to update you on all things related to the Academy. As I'm sure you've all noticed, a few of our most exciting talents have been involved with the first team recently, so now is as good a time as any to tell you more about them. Sixteen-year-old defender Reece Oxford was named on the bench against Liverpool and Manchester United. Had he come on, he would have been the youngest-ever Premier League debutant, an outstanding achievement. Elliot Lee and Reece Burke have also been on the fringes of the first-team this season. While some people may point to injuries to first-team players, these are the opportunities and the breaks you need as a young player.
In my 36 years in football, that is always the case. When the opportunity arises, the player then needs to take it. It's our job to give the player all the tools to do well. If for any reason the player is short in any department - tactically, mentally, physically - they'll eat you alive in the Premier League.
I think for everybody involved with the Club it really is fantastic to see young players doing well. For Sam Allardyce to be brave enough to include them, first of all, is a big step. The good thing with the young players who are in the squad for Wednesday night is the fact that they are all training with the first team regularly.
The first team and the Academy are both working together and pulling in the same direction. We now have good communication. Ian Hendon is an important link, telling us what they've been working on and Neil McDonald is also heavily involved, coming to every U21 home game. I truly believe it is only a matter of time before this system bears fruit.
Everyone enjoys cheering on home grown players that bit more, there is sense of pride that comes with a local player coming through the ranks. With that in mind, it was great to see Academy graduate James Tomkins sign a long-term contract with the Club, but we need to make sure this happens more regularly.
There is now a real belief that these players can follow in the footsteps of James and Mark Noble. What we are trying to achieve is incredibly difficult, there is no formula or exact science behind producing Premier League players. One thing it does require is hard work, from not just the player, but his family and all the support staff at the Academy. Take Reece Oxford for example. A lot of people have worked with him, probably the current U18s coach Mark Phillips more than anyone. Head of Academy Recruitment Dave Hunt has put hours and hours of work tracking and following him, going abroad with him. The scout who was on the pitch with him when he signed, as well - they're all important people in helping to secure talented young players stay at the club. The next step is that he needs to play, and it shows all the other younger players - Joe Powell, Antony Scully, Reece Burke, Josh Pask and Vashon Neufville - that they can be involved at that kind of age, they're thinking 'Blimey, he's on the bench'. It's a big plus for all of us, it really is.
On the flip side is the unfortunate reality that most Academy players, up and down the country, don't make it to the first team. It's been a tough week because a group of players have been released. For the released players, it's our challenge to find them new clubs and help them forge a career somewhere else. We don't just discard them and throw them out. We're playing in the hardest league in the world and we're about to move to the Olympic Stadium. The club wants to be around the top six, and to do that you've got to be some player. Our next opponents Southampton have had a terrific turnover of world-class graduates in recent years - Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Luke Shaw to name just three. When you look at the system and culture they have in place, it's no fluke. They have a clear pathway to the first team, and it is working for them. We want to get to that level of productivity, and I believe we've taken the first steps in the that direction.
All the best,
Terry Westley
Academy Manager and Head of Coaching and Player Development
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Southampton 0 West Ham 0
11 February 2015
Last updated at 22:17
By Luke Reddy
BBC Sport
West Ham had goalkeeper Adrian sent off but frustrated Southampton by holding on for a goalless draw at St Mary's. The keeper was red carded when he handled outside his box under pressure from Sadio Mane after a clumsy touch. Mane was denied by a goal-line clearance earlier and Saints pushed for a winner but Maya Yoshida headed over as the Hammers defended bravely. West Ham's point came despite an injury to substitute Andy Carroll who was hobbling badly in the closing stages. The Hammers' first clean sheet in 18 away games means Southampton dropped to fourth, a point ahead of Arsenal. Few Saints' fans could have dreamt their side would be pushing for a top-four finish when players such as Adam Lallana, Luke Shaw and Dejan Lovren left in the summer but this latest result will feel like a missed opportunity.
Ronald Koeman's side failed to create clear-cut chances before Adrian was dismissed but they dominated the remaining 30 minutes without adding the end product to their approach work. Striker Graziano Pelle, now without a goal in eight league games, glanced a header wide in added time and in a frantic finish Dusan Tadic was denied by a Jussi Jaaskelainen save.
West Ham played the closing stages with Carroll limping, effectively reducing them to nine capable players but their determined display leaves them eighth, eight points behind their hosts. Their manager Sam Allardyce this week told reporters "no coach was more sophisticated" than him in the Premier League and he had to make late adjustments to his side, admitting before kick off his staff "haven't had any real practice with those available" since Sunday's draw with Manchester United. Despite being without the injured Kevin Nolan and unwell Mark Noble in midfield, they were still organised throughout. Aside from Mane's run and shot which prompted a Carl Jenkinson clearance in the first half, Adrian was relatively untroubled until the hour mark, where the first sending off of his career arrived.
It was a clear dismissal as his decision to try to wrong-foot Mane backfired, prompting panic which ended with the Spaniard falling on the ball and striking it with his hand. The home side sensed a seventh win in nine league games and introduced January signing Filip Djuricic for his debut but neither he nor fellow substitute Tadic could break the resistance. Southampton attacked in waves and Aaron Cresswell's brave block prevented Nathaniel Clyne's powerful volley, before Yoshida headed over when well placed. Koeman's side have now failed to win at home in five of their last seven league games but have only dropped out of the top four for two weeks since September.
Southampton manager Ronald Koeman: "If you play 30 minutes 11 against 10 then you have to score the goal but we didn't. Everybody was running and we didn't make the pitch wide to make the space. Too many crosses and I think that is the easy way for them to defend. "I said at half time if we kept the organisation the front players have to win the game tonight but they didn't. You have to react and work harder and be sharp in the box."
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce on Adrian's sending off: "It's a foul on the goalie. Two hands around him, two around his back. It's bizarre why they cant see it but this is what we have to stomach today and it nearly cost us dearly. It lost us the opportunity to win the game and we had to battle with nine in the end when Carroll got injured to get an unbelievable point."
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Allardyce admits defeat in Diarra bid
KUMB.com
Filed: Wednesday, 11th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's attempt to sign 'free agent' Lassana Diarra has been ended by a considerable amount of very messy, red tape. The former Real Madrid and Arsenal midfielder has been training with West Ham for a number of weeks, as reported here on KUMB last month, with view to sealing a contract after a planned move to Inter fell through. However the Hammers' attempts to resolve the legal issues Diarra has with his former club, Lokomotiv Moscow, have proved fruitless - with Allardyce conceding tonight that he will not be able to sign the player this season. "It's not going to happen due to administration reasons, which is a real shame," Allardyce revealed in tonight's post-match press conference. FIFA regulations, apparently. "To get a player of his quality, with a lot to prove, would have been a huge bonus for us," he added.
Allardyce was left without a recognised central midfielder on the bench at Southampton tonight, with neither Kevin Nolan nor Mark Noble able to play. Further injury concerns in defence - with Winston Reid and James Collins still sidelined - led to Cheik Kouyate filling in at centre half at St Mary's for a second consecutive match.
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Andy Carroll leaves St Mary's on crutches
KUMb.com
Filed: Wednesday, 11th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham's Andy Carroll left Southampton on crutches tonight following United's goalless draw with Southampton. The striker entered the fray as a second half substitute but pulled up with what appeared to be a re-occurrence of his ankle injury shortly before full time.
As Sam Allardyce had already used his three permitted substitutes, Carroll was forced to remain on the field - although as a passenger, being barely able to move. West Ham - who had already been reduced to ten men following the dismissal of goalkeeper Adrian for deliberate hand ball - will scan the injury tomorrow morning, whilst Carroll must now be considered a major doubt for this weekend's 5th Round FA Cup tie at West Brom.
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Ten-man West Ham hold Southampton to a goalless draw at St Mary's
By Natasha Henry. Last Updated: 11/02/15 10:35pm
SSN
Ten-man West Ham earned a hard-fought point after holding Southampton to a 0-0 draw in their Premier League clash at St Mary's. Adrian was sent off on the hour mark after Sadio Mane got the better of him and he handled the ball outside the area, as the striker attempted to round him. It looked like the home side may get the winning goal their possession deserved but two late saves from substitute Jussi Jaaskelainen left Saints with their first goalless draw since August. Sam Allardyce will be happy with the point but concerned as Andy Carroll, having only returned from injury at the weekend, limped through the last 10 minutes of the game. Southampton started the game like a side keen to cement themselves in the top four of the Premier League and West Ham spent the first 20 minutes with their backs to the wall. It was Saints midfielder Victor Wanyama who had the first chance from 25 yards out, but he swung at the ball and it flew yards over the bar.
Mane followed that up in the 15th minute when he collected Steven Davis' cross from the right and ran into the box. He managed to knock it past Adrian at his near post but Carl Jenkinson was there to clear it. It was the start of a very bad evening for the Spanish goalkeeper. Mane had another chance just moments later and this time Carlton Cole saved his teammate after Adrian completely missed the ball when he came out to clear. Eljero Elia was the next forward to have a go as he beat the offside trap, but Jenkinson was alert to the danger and after being closed down, the Dutch international sent his shot wide. Allardyce made the first changes; bringing on Matt Jarvis for Enner Valencia after the break even though the summer signing had got the Hammers' only shot on target. The visitors altered their shape and it looked like the plan was to send longer balls in for Carroll, who replaced Diafra Sakho in the 55th minute, but the striker spent more time clearing the ball out of his own area. West Ham's chances came on the break, as Adrian's long free-kick found Stewart Downing but he could only send his shot over.
Thirty minutes before the end came Adrian's rush of blood to the head. Mane, who had been lively all game, nicked the ball from his hands. Adrian tried to tackle him and when that didn't work he leapt on the ball as it trickled outside of the area. Jaaskelainen came on in place of Cole and exuded experience as he saved from Graziano Pelle twice. Then on the stroke of full-time he pulled of a low save from Jose Fonte at his right hand post. The result sees Southampton drop one place to fourth on 45 points, but ahead of Arsenal on goal difference. The Hammers stay eighth and have 38 points on the board after 25 games.
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce claims he is as good as any other manager in the Premier League
Last Updated: 11/02/15 1:00pm
SSN
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says he is as good as any other manager in the Premier League. Allardyce takes his team to Southampton on Wednesday night where he comes up against Saints boss Ronald Koeman - who has been widely praised for how well he has taken to managing in England. Koeman's fellow Dutchman Louis van Gaal was accused by Allardyce of reverting to direct tactics as his Manchester United side took a last-gasp point from Upton Park on Sunday, as he labelled the Red Devils as "long-ball United" – a tag the Hammers boss has had to live with himself for some time. The accusations of adopting a long-ball policy left van Gaal handing reporters a detailed pamphlet loaded with statistics to rebuff those suggestions ahead of his pre-match press conference on Wednesday, whilst Allardyce chose to look ahead to the trip to St Mary's. And the man who once famously said he would have landed a top European job had he had a name such as 'Allardychi', feels his longevity in the top flight set him aside from all comers. "I don't think there is any coach more sophisticated than me any more," said Allardyce. "That's not trying to criticise any other coaches but there is only Arsene who has done it longer than me. "They may well have gained more experience by managing abroad like Louis van Gaal, Ronald Koeman and people like that but in this country, with the experience they've got I don't think there is any coach that would be in that position (of being more sophisticated than me). I'm just as good as everybody at this stage. "That comes from the amount of time you do the job, how much experience you gain in the job and how much knowledge you strive for on a regular basis to keep the cutting edge. "The cutting edge is what's new in football, what's the next level, where is it going to be, how can you find it, how can you implement it into your club? "I've always been that way inclined. I've never stood still and it's probably why I am still here managing in the Premier League for the last 13-14 years." Allardyce was full of praise for Koeman's work at St Mary's and feels that the Dutchman would be in line to be named manager of the year if he can guide Southampton into the Champions League. "Everybody would see it as such a great achievement and with it being your first appointment in this country, even more so," he said of a potential top-four finish for Saints. "There has been some really good recruitment in new players and that is the key element for us all as managers. We are only as good as the club's recruitment policy and when you get that policy right you improve as a manager because better players come to you. "If you get it wrong, the club declines and you get sacked - it has always been the same, recruitment is the most important thing at the football club. "That player that arrives has to be better than the player that leaves, especially at this level and that is not an easy task by any stretch of the imagination."
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Southampton 0-0 West Ham: Saints fail to take advantage of Adrian red card as Hammers hold on
22:13, 11 February 2015 By Neil McLeman
The Hammers stopper was given his marching orders for handling outside the area, but Koeman's side could not take the initiative
The Mirror
Ten-man West Ham hung on for a point after the dismissal of goalkeeper Adrian for handling outside his box. The Spaniard was shown the red card after 61 minutes when he failed to dribble around Saints striker Sadio Mane and then fell on the ball. But despite fierce pressure on the Hammers goal in a frantic finish - and the odd long ball into the box - Southampton could not force a winner. Not even the late introduction of new loan signing Filip Djuricic could break the deadlock in a poor game which only caught alight in the closing stages.
Ronald Koeman's side, who slip down to fourth place behind Manchester United, have now not won at St Mary's in the Premier League since the New Year's Day victory over Arsenal. Sam Allardyce's team have won only one Premier League game in eight but this was their first clean sheet away from home in 18. The first half had started full of promise before petering out. Steven Davis set up Mane with an audacious backheel before Carl Jenkinson cleared his cross while the Northern Ireland midfielder then retreated to head away an Amalfitano shot away. But with referee Craig Pawson having a stinker, the game sank to his level with Jose Fonte getting booked for handling an Aaron Cresswell cross the highlight of the rest of the half. Allardyce reacted at the break by sending on Matt Jarvis - and soon after Andy Carroll - as the match opened up. Graziano Pelle forced the first of the match from Adrian after 54 minutes from a Mane pass. The Senegal striker, who was booked for a first-half challenge on Alex Song, was then lucky to escape a red for another naughty tackle before he was involved in Adrian's careless dismissal. While Jussi Jaaskelainen immediately came on for the Hammers, Koeman sent on Dusan Tadic to take the free kick which was deflected over the bar. The Finn pushed away shots from Fonte and Tadic and Pelle headed wide during five minutes of stoppage time.
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West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says he is the "most sophisticated" manager in the Premier League
16:44, 11 February 2015 By James Whaling
Big Sam has fanned the flames on his row with Manchester United chief Louis van Gaal after accusing the Red Devils of being a long ball team
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has stepped up his row with Louis van Gaal, claiming he is the most sophisticated manager in the Premier League. The West Ham chief angered the Dutchman after the Hammers played out a 1-1 draw with Manchester United at the weekend, claiming it was their long ball tactics which ultimately led to Daley Blind's late equaliser. It prompted Van Gaal to hit back in a rather bizarre press conference yesterday, armed with a dossier of statistics to hand to members of the media to try and disprove Big Sam's claims. However, Allardyce has one one step further, claiming he is the furthest ahead of ALL the Premier League bosses with his managerial nous. "I don't think there is any coach more sophisticated than me anymore," said Allardyce. "That's not trying to criticise any other coaches but there is only Arsene Wenger who has done it longer than me. "They may well have gained more experience by managing abroad like Louis van Gaal, Ronald Koeman and people like that but, in this country, with the experience they've got, I don't think there is any coach that would be in that position as more sophisticated. I'm just as good as everybody at this stage. "That comes from the amount of time you do the job, how much experience you gain in the job and how much knowledge you strive for on a regular basis to keep the cutting edge. "The cutting edge is what's new in football, what's the next level, where is it going to be, how can you find it, how can you implement it into your club.
"I've always been that way inclined. I've never stood still and it's probably why I am still here managing in the Premier League for the last 13-14 years." West Ham travel to Southampton this evening, looking to stay in the hunt for European football, while United host Burnley at Old Trafford.
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Villa could be tempted by Allardyce
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Sam Allardyce's name is tonight in the frame for the Aston Villa job after Paul Lambert was sacked. The West Ham chief – still without a new offer from the West Ham board – is seen as the man to save Villa from the drop by several inside the Villa Park boardroom. Villa released a simple one line statement statement confirming the manager's exit declaring: "Aston Villa Football Club has parted company this evening with manager Paul Lambert." Locally-born Allardyce with just a few months left on his Hammers contract could become a target along possibly with David Moyes. ClaretandHugh was told several weeks ago that were Lambert to be fired Allardyce – who is believed to have held an ambition to manage the club a couple of years back – could easily be in the frame. We were told by several decent midlands sources that he had to be on the short list because it's all about surival and that's Sam's game. We were told: "He's local and those who know him well have always claimed he has a feel for Villa. It will be all about who is advising the owner Randy Lerner."
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Adrian off but Hammers show true grit
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Saints 0 Irons 0
Adrian was red-carded but the Hammers battle for over half an hour with ten men. The keeper made a real ricket when trying dribble round Saints dangerman Mane who half tackled him as the Spaniard flopped onto the ball 'hands first' outside the area. There was a suspicion of a foul from the Saints striker but in the end referee Craig Pawson appeared to have few options but to point to the dressing room.
However, Jussi Jaaskalainen – coming on for Carlton Cole – made some important saves as he made his first appearance since New Year's Day, 2014 to ensure we came away from the south coast with a precious point. There had been no alarms in the first 45 minutes which ended with the home fans booing their team off. That was a tribute to the Irons strong defensive performance which kept the third placed team at bay with relative ease.
Saints went close after 13 minutes when Mane received Davis' pass, drove past Tomkins and clipped towards goal from an acute angle but Jenkinson was well positioned to clear. The hosts followed that three minutes later with a set piece which saw Adrian leave his line but failed to punch clear and a Gardos header was cleared by Cole. Kouyate was again composed at centre half again and turned away very cleverly from Pelle when facing his own by-line. Pelle comes back with a strong but fair challenge but Kouyate had the better of him.
Mane had a real chance as half time approached but his curling effort sailed a couple of feet wide of Adrian's left hand post. Valencia had worked hard and, finding some space to shoot for the Hammers, saw his effort blocked as the half came to its end. There was nothing in it at all until Adrian's departure saw Saints charge forward with real purpose. Pelle had a couple of chances, thrashing over the top before a looping effort was held by JJ. For all their pressure the hosts didn't create a real chance until Jaaskalainen saved well from Fonte low to his left and claimed a clipped ball into the box. Tadic then found space on the right and crossed towards Pelle who got there but saw the ball slid off his forehead and wide. Jaaskalainen topped a fine 30 odd minutes right at the end when he did brilliantly to sharply push away a low Davis drive to safety. It was a scrappy affair from the start and in the end a draw was probably a fair result as the Irons showed real grit.
Adrian 4 Jenkinson 7 Tomkins 7 Kouyate 7 Cresswell 7; Song 7 Amafitano 6, Downing 6, Valencia 5, Sakho 6, Cole 5
Subs: Jaaskalainen 7 Jarvis 5 Carroll 5
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Diarra move blocked by FIFA
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Lassana Diarra has claimed his move to West Ham has been blocked by FIFA In a series of three tweets, Diarra announced: "Thanks to the FIFA again you did a great job you don't let me play in France, Germany, Italy and England so maybe in Jamaica you will…In fews days I will explain everything the real story with my ex-team with the FIFA everything not the fake version since the beginning of this story I received a lot of support from you guys thanks a lot i really appreciate one love G5″
The tweets have since been deleted by the player.Just a few days ago Sam Allardyce told a press confrence "I'm not so sure we've finalised a deal yet, but he has been doing a little bit of training with us and a deal is very close. On the basis where we are at the minute with our squad picking up a few injuries, as soon as we get him fit he would be a very good addition based on his previous record. He won't be in the right state in terms of being fit for the Southampton game, or for Saturday's game against West Brom, but I certainly hope with a good few days training with the lads, he'll be close within seven or 10 days if he finally signs the contract."
The 29-year-old French man who has been training with the Hammers for a few weeks previously played for Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid but is now a free agent.
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West Ham are 21st richest club in the world
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 11, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham are the 21st Richest club in the world. In it's 18th edition Deloitte profiles the highest earning clubs in the world in the Football Money League.
1. Real Madrid – £459.5m
2. Manchester United – £433.2m
3. Bayern Munich – £407.7m
4. Barcelona – £405.2m
5. Paris Saint-Germain – £396.5m
6. Manchester City – £346.5m
7. Chelsea – £324.4m
8. Arsenal – £300.5m
9. Liverpool – £255.8m
10. Juventus – £233.6m
11. Borussia Dortmund – £218.7m
12. AC Milan – £208.8m
13. Tottenham – £180.5m
14. Schalke 04 – £178.9m
15. Atletico Madrid – £142.1m
16. Napoli £137.8m
17. Inter Milan – £137.1m
18. Galatasaray – £135.4m
19. Newcastle United – £129.7m
20. Everton £120.5m
21. West Ham United – £105.3m
22. Aston Villa – £101.9m
23. Marseille – £100m
24. Roma – £97.7m
25. Southampton – £97.3
The full report can be downloaded from the link report
http://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/uk/Documents/sports-business-group/deloitte-football-money-league-2015.PDF
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Thursday, February 12
Wednesday, February 11
Daily WHUFC News - 11th February 2015
Preview - Southampton
WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Wednesday's trip to Southampton
10.02.2015
SOUTHAMPTON v WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
ST MARY'S STADIUM
WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: CRAIG PAWSON
In brief
West Ham United travel to the south coast to face in form Southampton just
four days after drawing with Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground. Earlier
in the season, the Saints won 3-1 in the reverse fixture and Sam Allardyce's
men will be looking for revenge come Wednesday eveing. Ronald Koeman's
Southampton have defied all the odds and proved the doubters wrong as they
currently sit in third, having taken 45 points from 24 games. However, the
Saints have lost their last two home league games, a 3-2 defeat by Crystal
Palace and a 1-0 defeat by Swansea City.
Who are they?
Southampton were formed in 1885 and have been known as the Saints ever since
due to their history as a church side, being known as St Mary's YMA in their
early days. Their high point was winning the FA Cup in 1976, famously
beating Manchester United in the final, while they also reached the final in
1900, 1902 and 2003 - when they were defeated by Arsenal. The Saints'
highest ever league finish is second in 1983/84 and, like the Hammers, they
are in their third season back in the top flight after being promoted from
the Championship in 2012. Other honours include the Football League Trophy,
which they won at Wembley in 2010, and the Southern League - which they won
six times around the turn of the 20th century prior to becoming a Football
League club.
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers will still be without defenders James Collins and Winston Reid
who missed Sunday's draw with Manchester United. Likewise, Diego Poyet and
Doneil Henry are also likely to miss out. Captain Kevin Nolan faces a race
against time to overcome a foot injury sustained against Manchester United.
England international Andy Carroll faces a late fitness test to determine
whether is able to feature or not.
Southampton
Toby Alderweireld (hamstring) and Matt Targett (concussion) are unlikely to
feature as are Shane Long and Lloyd Isgrove. Jay Rodriguez is Southampton's
long term absentee while Ryan Bertrand is suspended.
Referee
The man in the middle for Wednesday's fixture is Craig Pawson. The Sheffield
based official has been in charge of one West Ham game this season - the
Hammers' 3-1 win over Liverpool in September. The 35-year-old referee also
refereed the Saints' 2-0 New Year's Day victory over Arsenal. The assistant
referees are Ian Hussin and Adrian Holmes, Neil Swarbrick is the fourth
official.
One to watch
West Ham United
Following his terrific display at centre-back against Manchester United
Cheikhou Kouyate has somewhat eased Sam Allardyce's defensive injury
problems. The Senegalese international was unfazed at the prospect of
marking Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao, capping an excellent
performance with a quality goal which almost gave the Hammers a deserved
win.
Southampton Kouyate's Senegalese teammate Sadio Mane has been in impressive
form for the Saints this season, scoring six goals, most recently in the 1-0
away win at Queens Park Rangers. The Saints have never lost when Mane scores
so the Hammers will need to stop him in order to get a result at St. Mary's
Stadium.
Tickets
All Standard Tickets for this fixture have SOLD OUT. Wheelchair/Carer
Tickets are available but must be purchased in advance of the fixture.
Travel
For all your travel information on how to get to and from St Mary's please
click here.
Weather
Wednesday evening is set to be a cloudy night with a chance of rain starting
into the night. Temperatures at kick-off of are forecast to be 5C (41F).
Last away meeting
Southampton 0-0 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
15 September 2013
Southampton: Boruc, Clyne, Lovren, Fonte, Shaw (Chambers 77), Schneiderlin,
Wanyama, Lallana (Ward-Prowse 72), Lambert, Rodriguez, Osvaldo
Subs: Davis, Hooiveld, Davis, Ramirez, Do Prado
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Reid, O'Brien, Collins, Demel (Rat 61) Nolan,
Jarvis, Morrison (Taylor 77) Noble, Diame, Maiga (Vaz Te 68)
Subs: Adrian, Tomkins, Collison, Lee
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Adrian keen to overcome late blow
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian says the Hammers will take inspiration
from Sunday's performance
09.02.2015
Adrian may have been beaten late on by Manchester United's Daley Blind on
Sunday as Louis van Gaal's team snatched a point at the Boleyn Ground, but
the Spanish stopper will be focusing on the many positive aspects of the
Hammers' performance as they build towards Southampton. Sam Allardyce's men
travel to the South Coast on Wednesday looking for the maximum point haul
which eluded them at the weekend, despite taking the lead through Cheikhou
Kouyate and holding it right up until the final minute. While admitting that
came as a blow, Adrian said observers only had to look at how much busier
his opposite number was to show who should have won. "It was a good
challenge between Spanish keepers," he explained. "De Gea made some very
good saves on Sunday - he saved them really. "We absolutely deserved the
three points. "We played well and showed a good performance, but this is
football. "We didn't score the second goal to kill the game. They have good
players and scored in the last minute. "Of course it was difficult to come
off the pitch with a 1-1 draw after they scored in the 92nd minute, but we
felt good and deserved the three points. "We need to take that into the next
game against Southampton now because that will be a tough game."
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Big Sam on: Southampton
WHUFC.com
The manager talks to the press ahead of Wednesday's trip to Southampton
10.02.2015
Sam Allardyce faced the media on Tuesday ahead of West Ham United's Barclays
Premier League trip to Southampton. The Hammers are looking for maximum
points after only being denied at the death by Manchester United at the
weekend. Big Sam provided an update on injury news, his team's prospects at
St Mary's and more.
Hi Sam, is there any news on the injured players who weren't available for
United on Sunday?
SA: "The possibility would be Andy Carroll. He may be fit but it'll be touch
and go right up until we leave tomorrow morning. Kevin Nolan has a bruised
instep which is causing us some concern, at the moment we don't know if
he'll be able to but his boots on or not. That's obviously a blow to us and
the rest who were unavailable are still out. We're short on numbers but very
high on confidence."
James Tomkins took a bit of a bashing, and was talking about Robin van
Persie perhaps getting a red card for an elbow. What did you think of that
argument?
SA: "He broke his nose but it's not serious enough to keep him out. From a
challenge point of view I thought it was pretty naughty, he had a look to
see where the defender was and then took him out basically. The assistant
referee gave a foul but he didn't think it was more serious. Tomkins should
be fit to play tomorrow night which is the most important thing for us."
Your comments about long ball Manchester United have certainly created a
buzz. Are you surprised at how much of a fuss has been made out of it?
SA: "No. The media love a bit of a tale, something to write about. It was a
fact and everyone loves facts. On Sunday it was Man United playing direct
football to try and overcome a defeat and it paid off for them. That's how
they got back into the game and sadly for us there wasn't time for us to
react."
Playing Southampton on Wednesday tonight. West Ham have never won at St.
Mary's, what would a win do for your season?
SA: "I think for us, it's just trying to take each game as it comes. With 14
games left we're coming to the end of the season, we've done so well and
come far. We want to get more wins than draws because we've slipped down the
table a little bit. Southampton have managed to keep on winning, but we've
let leads slip and ended up drawing too many times. They've lost their last
league game against Swansea City which we've studied."
Is there any more news about your contract situation?
SA: "Not yet. There's still a way to go but we'll talk when the time is
right."
Would you like to be here next season?
SA: "We'll have to see what the contract says! But seriously, there's a lot
of work to be done here and the potential of the squad is very exciting. The
way the club is going with the new stadium round the corner it is an
exciting time."
Lassana Diarra has been training with you for a few weeks, what is the
situation with Diarra at the moment?
SA: "I'm not sure what the state of negotiations are but he has been
training with us recently. As soon as he is fit and ready he'll be a great
addition to our squad."
He's a vastly experienced player and he's played at several big clubs, what
is his state of fitness at the moment?
SA: "He's not ready to be involved in first team but hopefully he's not too
far away. We're not in any rush but he would be a good addition if and when
it happens."
A disappointing result in the end, but plenty of positives to take from
Sunday games?
SA: "Exactly, and we have to pick up from where we left against United. They
gave everything they possibly had and we want to maintain that level in
every game for the rest of the season. The main difficulty is recovery,
because we haven't had much time. Southampton playing on Saturday have also
had an extra day to recover. So Wednesday night is all about our attitude
and determination. We're going to
need to push ourselves in order to win. We had a bit of a lull in our
performances recently but to see us back to near our best was a big
boost. We don't want our season to fade away."
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Hammers to honour Peters
WHUFC.com
Martin Peters MBE will become the third recipient of the Club's Lifetime
Achievement Award at the annual Player Awards
10.02.2015
West Ham United are pleased to announce that Martin Peters MBE will become
the third recipient of the Club's Lifetime Achievement Award.
The 1966 World Cup winner will be honoured at the annual Player Awards
brought to you by Betway and in aid of the Academy, which this year take
place on Wednesday 6 May at the London Hilton on Park Lane. 71-year-old
Peters came through the famed Academy at West Ham to play a pivotal role in
the golden period of the 1960s, even though he missed out on an involvement
in the 1964 FA Cup winning effort. The following year he played a full role
as the Hammers lifted the European Cup Winners' Cup and then returned to
Wembley a year later to win the World Cup with England. He would go on to
score exactly 100 goals for the Hammers in 364 appearances - a fine record
for a midfielder - before enjoying further success with Tottenham Hotspur
and Norwich City, ending a remarkable 22-year professional career with
Sheffield United. The complete midfielder, Peters' versatility was such that
he played in every position for the Hammers - including in goal when
replacing the injured Brian Rhodes in just his third game for the Club.
Peters was made an MBE in 1978 and follows in the footsteps of Billy Bonds
MBE and Sir Trevor Brooking in receiving the Hammers' Lifetime Achievement
Award. Born in Plaistow on 8 November 1943, Peters came through the ranks at
his local Club to sign as an apprentice under manager Ted Fenton in 1959. He
would make his first team debut on Good Friday 1962 in a 4-1 home victory
against Cardiff City. Peters' first goal for the Club would follow in
September of that year.
Peters made 36 League appearances in 1962/63 and 32 in 1963/64, but would
not be involved as the Hammers won their first FA Cup that year. He would
not miss out twelve months later as West Ham defeated TSV 1860 Munich to win
the European Cup Winners' Cup. A further chance for Hammers silverware
arrived in 1966 when they reached the League Cup final, in those days played
over two legs. Peters scored in the second game, but West Bromwich Albion
triumphed 5-3 on aggregate. However, Peters, Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst
bounced back from that disappointment to lead England to World Cup glory.
The 1968/69 season would be Peters' most prolific for the Hammers, as he
knocked in 24 goals from 48 matches, and a year later he was on the move to
north London, as Tottenham Hotspur paid £200,000 for his services.
Peters' run of success would continue at White Hart Lane as he won the
League Cup in 1971 and 1973 and the UEFA Cup in 1972. Five-and-a-half years
with Norwich and a half-season at Sheffield United followed, before he
ventured into a brief foray in management with the Blades. In total he made
882 appearances in professional football, scoring 220 goals and adding a
further 20 to that in 67 England caps.
Following football, he moved into the insurance business and still works as
a matchday host to this day with the Hammers.
Martin Peters' Lifetime Achievement Award will be one of a host of
prestigious trophies awarded at the 2014/15 Player Awards, bought to you by
Betway, in Aid of the Academy.
Who will take the honours this season? You can be there at the Hilton London
on Park Lane on Wednesday 6 May to find out!
Our annual Player Awards night promises a night of fine dining and Hammers
entertainment as we look back at the highlights of the year.
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Tomkins signs new contract
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins has signed a new long-term contract with West Ham United
10.02.2015
West Ham United are delighted to announce that James Tomkins has signed a
new contract with the Club until summer 2020. The new deal will take the
Academy of Football graduate past 20 years of service to the Hammers, who he
joined as a seven-year-old schoolboy in 1996.
The Basildon-born centre-back has been in outstanding form this season,
helping the Hammers to a record-breaking Barclays Premier League start and
the FA Cup fifth round. "I think it's brilliant that the Club has shown
faith in me and offered me this deal and I'm delighted to sign it," said the
25-year-old, who made his first-team debut at 18 in March 2008. "I've been
here since I was seven and this is a long-term deal which is going to take
me up until I'm in my thirties, so it's nice to commit my future here. "It's
been a good season, but it's still got a little way to go yet and the job is
not done. We've had a good year so far and we want to continue it. I feel
like my performances have come along a lot this year and I am just enjoying
playing really."
While in previous decades West Ham might have allowed a home-grown hero like
Tomkins to leave the Club, the Hammers are now committed to keeping their
best players for the future. With excitement growing around the move to the
Club's 54,000-capacity new home in 2016, the defender says it is a great
time to be part of West Ham United. "Being a West Ham fan, I want to spend
my future here as it is exciting times with the Olympic Stadium move coming
up in 2016," continued Tomkins, who has played 205 times in Claret and Blue.
"The Club is going in the direction I wanted it to go and I want to be
involved in. It's exciting all-round, for the Club and for me. "It's a good
time and this year has been a great step forward. Now we just need to see it
out. I look back at all the times I've been in the team, from when I made my
debut at 18-years-old, and this is as well as we've done. Now we need to
keep it going until the end of the season, because we have a lot of hard
games coming up. "What the Board and everyone at the Club has done to get
the new Stadium shows the direction we want to be taking - we want to be
going forwards and not backwards and that's certainly where we're heading.
It's a great time for us. We want to leave Upton Park on a high, so it's
important we do the very best we can over the next 18 months leading up to
the move."
Looking to the more immediate future, West Ham face two exciting and
challenging fixtures on the back of Sunday's thrilling draw with Manchester
United. On Wednesday, the Hammers go to Southampton in the Barclays Premier
League ahead of Saturday's FA Cup tie at West Bromwich Albion. "Southampton
are doing really well at the moment and they're obviously a great team,
which they are proving week in, week out with their consistency," Tomkins
observed. "It's a hard place to go as they don't concede many goals, but
it's a game we're all looking forward to on the back of a good performance
against Manchester United. "We showed signs of where we are at the minute by
competing against such a good team, and now we face another one in
Southampton and we need to approach it in the right way. "It's hard to focus
on the FA Cup just yet because of the game on Wednesday, but it's exciting
being involved in an FA Cup run. West Brom will be hard to beat with Tony
Pulis in charge and you know his teams don't give away much. It's going to
be tough but hopefully we can get a win. If we get to a quarter-final, who
knows how far we can go?"
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James Tomkins: West Ham defender signs new deal until 2020
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United defender James Tomkins has signed a new contract at the
club, which will keep him at Upton Park until 2020. The 25-year-old joined
West Ham as a schoolboy in 1996 and is a graduate of the club's academy.
"It's brilliant that the club has shown faith in me and I'm delighted to
sign [this contract]," Tomkins said. Tomkins, whose new deal will take him
past 20 years of service at West Ham, has made 205 appearances for the club.
He suffered a broken nose in Sunday's draw against Manchester United.
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Louis van Gaal uses diagrams to defend Man Utd 'long-ball' claims
BBC.co.uk
Louis van Gaal displayed a series of diagrams to journalists as he hit back
at Sam Allardyce's claim that Manchester United are a long-ball team. West
Ham boss Allardyce described Van Gaal's side as "long-ball United" after the
teams drew 1-1 at Upton Park.
But Van Gaal disputed the assertion. "Because I expected this question, I
have made an interpretation of the data for this game and then I have to say
that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam," said the Dutchman. "You
have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play long balls,
but long balls wide rather than to the striker."
The statistics, contained in four A4 sheets of paper, were put together by
Van Gaal's analysis team. They claim West Ham sent a higher percentage of
their long passes forward than the visitors. According to the figures, West
Ham attempted a total of 200 passes during the game and United 343. Of those
passes, 45 (22.5%) of West Ham's were long - more than 25 metres - compared
to 83 (24.2%) of United's.
However, United claim fewer than half of their 83 long passes went forward
(49.9%), compared to almost three-quarters (71.1%) of West Ham's 45.
Diagrams generated by United showed that many of the visitors' passes went
sideways or diagonally, rather than forward. Van Gaal insisted his team only
started playing long balls forward after 6ft 4in Marouane Fellaini came on
in the 76th minute of the draw at Upton Park. Daley Blind rescued a point
with a 93rd-minute equaliser after Cheikhou Kouyate's volley put West Ham
ahead. According to Opta, Van Gaal's United do play more long balls - under
their definition "launches of the ball by a team that have no clear aim" -
than the sides of David Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson during the previous two
seasons.
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West Ham: Lassana Diarra close to Hammers deal - Sam Allardyce
BBc.co.uk
Former Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with West Ham and
close to signing a deal with them. The Frenchman, 29, has been without a
club since being released by Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow in August 2014.
"He is training with us," said Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. "The deal is very
close to being finalised. "Once fit he will be a good addition. I hope, with
a good few days' training, he will be close in seven to 10 days - if he
finally signs the contract." Diarra has previously had spells at Arsenal,
Chelsea and Portsmouth during spells in England. "He won't be in any good
shape in terms of being on the bench on Wednesday or on the bench on
Saturday against West Brom," added Allardyce.
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Southampton v West Ham
KO 19:45
10 February 2015
Last updated at 12:46
By Simon Brotherton
Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: St Mary's Stadium Date: Wednesday, 11 February
TEAM NEWS
Southampton have problems at left-back with Ryan Bertrand still suspended
and Matt Targett out with a head injury. Morgan Schneiderlin is an injury
doubt, but new signing Filip Djuricic could play after receiving his work
permit.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says Andy Carroll is "touch and go" to return
from a knee injury, while Kevin Nolan could miss out with a foot problem.
James Tomkins is available despite breaking his nose on Sunday as Winston
Reid and James Collins remain absent.
MATCH PREVIEW
Whatever happens at St Mary's, it's highly unlikely we'll hear Sam Allardyce
talking about any long-ball tactics from Southampton in his post-match
interviews. He was left lamenting how Manchester United had found a
93rd-minute equaliser on Sunday but was right to feel so positive about how
his team had played. Injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations haven't helped
lately, but this was a timely return to form for West Ham, who haven't
performed at quite the same level since Christmas.
Lawro's prediction
"Southampton were not great against QPR at the weekend but they still won.
They have key players like Morgan Schneiderlin and Victor Wanyama coming
back to full fitness too, and it will make a big difference when they get
the heartbeat of their team back."
Predictions: Lawro v Arsenal Ladies star Kelly Smith I've seen them on the
road twice in the last three weeks and felt they were professional in
overcoming a potentially awkward fixture at Bristol City in the FA Cup, but
struggled in a 2-0 league defeat against Liverpool.
After winning only one of their last seven in the Premier League, the
Hammers go looking for a first win at Southampton in nearly 15 years. They
weren't the only team to concede in the 93rd minute at the weekend - QPR did
too against Southampton . Sadio Mane's late goal secured all three points
and he's a man in form in front of goal, having scored in his last four
Premier League starts. Saturday's result moved Ronald Koeman's team up to
third in the table and they've now won six of the last eight in the league,
which has left their pre-Christmas blip firmly in the rearview mirror.
Southampton strolled to a 3-1 victory when the teams last met at the end of
August, giving Koeman his first league win as manager. West Ham's campaign
hadn't made it out of first gear at the time, with defeat by Saints meaning
they had started the season with three in a row at home in all competitions.
Things have clearly moved on and, while Southampton have the meanest defence
in the Premier League and are in fine form, this could be a really good game
if West Ham can play as well as they did against Manchester United on
Sunday.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have gone five games without a win at Southampton since a 3-2
victory in November 2000.
Southampton can do the double over West Ham in the Premier League for the
first time since 1997-98.
Southampton
Following five successive wins, Southampton have lost three of their last
six Premier League home matches (W2, D1, L3).
Southampton have conceded the fewest Premier League goals this season (17)
and no side has kept more clean sheets. Both Saints and league leaders
Chelsea have 11.
Ronald Koeman's side have dropped just two points from a winning position
this season, the fewest in the Premier League.
Saints have hit the woodwork 14 times in the league this season, more than
any other team. Graziano Pelle is responsible for six of these.
Top scorer Pelle has not found the net in seven league games.
West Ham United
The Hammers have won just one of their last seven Premier League away games
(W1, D3, L3).
They haven't kept a clean sheet away from home in 17 league games.
West Ham have 37 points from 24 matches, their best tally at this stage of a
top-flight season since 1985-86 (48pts), when they finished third.
They have scored a league-high 14 headed goals this season. Diafra Sakho has
scored five of those - two more than any other player in the league.
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Five more years for James Tomkins
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's James Tomkins has signed a new five-year deal with West
Ham. The 25-year-old Basildon born defender has been at the club since the
age of seven and has since made 205 first team appearances for the club -
the same as legendary sixties striker Johhny 'Budgie' Byrne (205) and more
than eighties legend Frank McAvennie (191). His existing four year deal was
set to expire next summer (2016) and whilst West Ham had the option of
triggering a further 12 months, they opted instead to secure Tomkins' future
with a new five-year deal that potentially keeps him at the club until 2020.
"I think it's brilliant that the Club has shown faith in me and offered me
this deal - and I'm delighted to sign it," Tomkins told whufc.com this
afternoon. "I've been here since I was seven and this is a long-term deal
which is going to take me up until I'm in my thirties, so it's nice to
commit my future. "Being a West Ham fan, I want to spend my future here as
it is exciting times with the Olympic Stadium move coming up in 2016. The
club is going in the direction I wanted it to go and I want to be involved
in. It's exciting all-round, for the club and for me. "It's a good time and
this year has been a great step forward. Now we just need to see it out. I
look back at all the times I've been in the team, from when I made my debut
at 18-years-old, and this is as well as we've done. Now we need to keep it
going until the end of the season, because we have a lot of hard games
coming up. "We want to be going forwards, not backwards - and that's
certainly where we're heading. It's a great time for us. We want to leave
Upton Park on a high, so it's important we do the very best we can over the
next 18 months leading up to the move."
James Tomkins: season stats
2007/08: Pld 6 Bkd 0 Red 0 Gls 0
2008/09: Pld 15 Bkd 0 Red 1 Gls 1 (Derby Pld 8 Bkd 1 Red 1 Gls 0)
2009/10: Pld 26 Bkd 0 Red 0 Gls 0
2010/11: Pld 28 Bkd 3 Red 0 Gls 1
2011/12: Pld 47 Bkd 6 Red 0 Gls 4
2012/13: Pld 29 Bkd 5 Red 0 Gls 1
2013/14: Pld 35 Bkd 6 Red 1 Gls 0
2014/15: Pld 19 Bkd 5 Red 0 Gls 1
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Koeman cool on Carroll threat
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ronald Koeman admits his tactical approach to Wednesday's clash with West
Ham depends much upon the potential inclusion of one player.
Southampton's 51-year-old Dutch manager admitted today that if Andy Carroll
plays at St Mary's on Wednesday, his entire game plan will change - due to
the distinct styles which he believes West Ham employ when either with or
without the big target man. According to Koeman, whose team are currently
third in the Premier League having enjoyed a fantastic season so far, the
Hammers are far more likely to play direct should Carroll feature in the
side. However he admitted that Sam Allardyce's side have the ability to mix
it up and play more possession-based football - as was the case against
Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground on Sunday afternoon. "It'll be a
difficult game. I watched the game last Sunday and I think they played very
well and were physically strong," he said during this morning's pre-match
press conference. "Much depends on whether they start with [Andy] Carroll,
as with him they can play a little bit more direct. [On Sunday] they showed
they can play good football without him. It was difficult but they had very
good opportunities to kill the game and very a little bit unlucky to only
get one point. "West Ham always have options to play in a different style.
What you have to do as a manager is to play with the best qualities the
players have. The easiest way to attack is a long ball - like we do.
Sometimes we play a long ball to [Graziano] Pelle because in one pass,
you're close to the opponent's box. Then you can begin pressing your
opponent. "I always prefer to play football but sometimes it's a good
option, if you have a player like [Andy] Carroll or [Marouane] Fellaini at
Manchester United, to do something different. To try a different way to
score goals is allowed."
With specific regard to Carroll - who failed a late-fitness test before
Sunday's game but is expected to be available tomorrow - and the threat
posed by the England international -Koeman plans to keep him as far away
from goal as possible. "We'll try to keep him out of the box. We know we
have to prepare ourselves for that," he surmised. "If he is playing then we
have to press the goalkeeper, we have to press the defenders and try to keep
out the long ball they like to play. "If he's not playing that means a
different style with Sakho and Valencia. They are very fast; good players,
good attackers. That means we'll need to defend against our opponents a
different way. "It's two different styles of playing. With Carroll it's more
long ball and second ball, without it's much more about ball possession and
much more movement from the two fast attackers. That means we have to defend
differently, but it's no so difficult [to change]."
* West Ham face Southampton at St Mary's tomorrow night (Wednesday). 7.45pm
(GMT) kick off.
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Press officer gives the game away
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
There was a priceless moment at this morning's Manchester United press
conference when the club's Media Officer presented documents relating to
Sunday's game with West Ham to the press. Red Devils boss Louis Van Gaal had
insisted that a series of documents, setting out why Manchester United
should not be hailed as a 'long ball' team be distributed to journalists
present at a club press conference this morning. However his media officer
appeared to inadvertently expose her true feelings about the matter when she
grimaced visibly when handing the documents from Van Gaal to the press - as
you may see in the video below! West Ham manager Sam Allardyce referred to
last weekend's opponents as 'long ball United' during his post-match press
conference on Sunday evening (which you may read exclusively in full here).
West Ham took the lead in Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester
United through Cheik Kouyate four minutes into the second half - before the
visitors snatched a point they barely deserved thorough a 93rd-minute Daley
Blind effort.
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Did we touch a nerve? Van Gaal takes umbrage to 'long ball' claim
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce's cheeky reference to last weekend's opponents as 'long ball
United' may have raised a few smiles amongst Hammers fans - although
Manchester United's Louis Van Gaal was far from impressed by the tag. The
under-pressure Dutch manager was so incensed by Allardyce's jibe that he
arrived at a press conference today armed with sheets of data designed to
counter Big Sam's claims - which were the subject of the first question
asked of the 63-year-old. "When a colleague of mine is saying this kind of
thing then you have to put the data in the right context," he said. "I think
the media is also coming to the match and you have a lot of opinions about
me. "You have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play
long balls, but long balls wide, rather than to the striker. A ball to the
forward striker is mainly caused by long-ball play. "Because I expected
this question, I have made an interpretation of the data for this game and
then I have to say that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam. "I am
sorry, but we are playing ball possession play and after 70 minutes we did
not succeed, in spite of many chances in the second half, so I changed my
playing style. Then, of course, with the quality of Fellaini we played more
forward balls and we scored from that, so I think it was a very good
decision of the manager.
"But, when you see the overall long ball percentage, West Ham have played 71
per cent of their long balls to the forwards and we 49. When you have 60 per
cent ball possession you cannot play long balls. "So again, they did it 71
and we 49, and I give it you, you can copy it and then maybe you can go to
Big Sam and he will get a good interpretation."
According to stats site Who Scored, Manchester United enjoyed 57 per cent
possession to West Ham's 43 per cent during Sunday's match, which ended 1-1
- making a total of 414 passes to the Hammers' 284. Whilst West Ham made 57
long passes, Manchester United made 86 - regardless of the direction.
Additionally 49 of West Ham's passes were played aerially, compared to 65
from Manchester United.
West Ham made a total of 226 forward passes compared to the Red Devils' 316
- playing the ball back 105 times, in contract to the visitors' 152 passes
toward their own goal.
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Poyet learning his trade, happy as back-up
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Diego Poyet has revealed he is happy being a squad member at West Ham - for
now. Unlike many of his contemporaries, who would no doubt be banging down
the manager's door demanding a place in the first team, the 19-year-old
midfielder displayed a refreshing attitude to life as a Premier League
footballer. And instead of complaining about his lack of opportunities -
Poyet has featured on just five occasions for West Ham so far - the
youngster insists that he is enjoying his time learning from his peers. "I'm
really enjoying it at West Ham," he told kicca.com. "People sometimes think
I'm not enjoying it as I'm not playing as much as I was last year at
Charlton, but I'm part of a great team and a great club who are doing well
in the Premier League and the FA Cup.
"I'm very, very happy here and happy to be a squad player for now and wait
for my chance. If I need game time I play for the club's Under-21 side so it
keeps me ticking over, get minutes under my belt and then I'll be ready
should my chance come. "I'm only 19 and there a lot of quality players in
front of me, but I'll just keep training and be prepared when I get my
chance. Quality-wise it's been a big step up from Charlton but now I've got
used to it. It was quite tough as a new player at the start but now I really
feel part of it."
The Zaragoza-born Poyet, who learnt to speak both English and Spanish as a
child - the result of his father Gus' Uruguayan roots - also revealed that
he has developed a close relationship with fellow Spanish speaker Enner
Valencia, who along wih Diafra Sakho "have been on fire".
But it is another Spanish speaker in the squad - on loan Barca star Alex
Song - who he feels mostly connected to as a player. "He's a fantastic
person as well as a fantastic player," added Poyet. "Although he plays in
the same position as me and limits my chances I learn so much off him.
"When I watch the games I just watch him as that can only help me. He
assists more than people think, has got a great pass on him and is so
comfortable on the ball. He's a very important player for us."
Poyet's five appearances for West Ham since making the switch from Charlton
last summer have included three in the Premier League (at Crystal Palace,
Manchester United and Swansea), one in the FA Cup (Everton away) and just
the one appearance in front of the Boleyn faithful (Sheffield United in the
Capital One Cup). He also featured twice for Huddersfield during a
month-long loan spell last November.
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West Ham closing in on former Chelsea star Lassana Diarra
Last Updated: 10/02/15 11:39am
SSN
Former Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with West Ham with
a view to earning a short-term contract. Diarra is a free agent after having
his contract at Lokomotiv Moscow terminated last August following a fall-out
with coach Leonid Kuchuk. The 29-year-old has been linked with Newcastle,
Queens Park Rangers and Celtic in the last few months. But the former
Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth player hopes to secure a deal at West Ham
until the end of the campaign. Upton Park boss Sam Allardyce confirmed the
news at his press conference ahead of Wednesday's Premier League match at
Southampton. "He is training with us," he said. "I'm not so sure whether
we've finalised a deal yet but he has been doing a little bit of training
with us. "I think the deal is very close to being finalised and I think on
the basis of where we are at the minute with our squad and the injuries, as
soon as we get him fit he'll be a really good addition based on his previous
record as a footballer. "He won't be on the bench on Wednesday or Saturday
against West Brom but I certainly hope with a few good days training with
the lads he'll be close in seven or 10 days... if he signs the contract."
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High-flying Southampton take on West Ham at St Mary's Stadium
Last Updated: 10/02/15 4:20pm
SSN
High-flying Southampton will look to maintain their challenge for Champions
League football when they host West Ham at St Mary's Stadium.
Saints needed a stoppage-time goal from Sadio Mane to beat Queens Park
Rangers 1-0 at Loftus Road at the weekend and are now third in the Premier
League table with 14 matches remaining after Manchester United, Arsenal and
Liverpool all dropped points over the weekend.
The Hammers will hope to respond from a result which felt like a loss after
they were denied maximum points when Daley Blind cancelled out Cheikhou
Kouyate's opener at Upton Park on Super Sunday. Sam Allardyce's side have
been hit by a spate of injuries over the last few weeks and have slipped
from fourth spot in late December to eighth in the table with just one win
in their last seven league games.
United will also face Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal before the middle of
March, but the Hammers will take heart from their display against United as
they head to the south coast.
Team news
Southampton will be once again be without Ryan Bertrand (suspension) and
Toby Alderweireld (hamstring). Matt Targett deputised for Bertrand at QPR,
but is doubtful after suffering a first-half head injury, even though
manager Ronald Koeman confirmed the youngster had escaped serious damage.
Sam Allardyce will be forced to field James Tomkins, despite the defender
suffering from a broken nose. Tomkins was caught by Robin van Persie's arm
in Sunday's draw with Manchester United but, with fellow central defenders
Winston Reid and James Collins (both hamstring) still missing, he will again
partner stand-in Cheikhou Kouyate at St Mary's. Allardyce was full of praise
for the Senegal international's performance, which he crowned with a
delightful goal that saw him juggle the ball twice before volleying home.
Allardyce is hopeful Andy Carroll may be available after recovering from an
ankle injury but captain Kevin Nolan (foot) is a doubt whilst Diego Poyet
and Doneil Henry are missing with unspecified problems. Former Real Madrid
midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with the club who are considering
offering the Frenchman a short-term deal until the end of the season.
Opta stats
Southampton have won only one of their last seven home Premier League
matches where the opposition has scored.
The Hammers have won just one of their last seven Premier League away games
(W1 D3 L3).
Following five successive wins, Southampton have lost three of their last
six Premier League home matches (W2 D1 L3).
Southampton have hit the woodwork 14 times in the Premier League this
season; more often than any other team. Graziano Pelle is responsible for
six of these.
West Ham's next Premier League defeat will be their 300th in the
competition.
Merson's prediction
There's not a lot between these two teams. Southampton are still up there,
playing well, and they've had a bit of luck at the same time, but the games
are reeling off now. Before you know it, we'll be down to single-figure
games, and if they're up there, they have a big chance. This is a test for
both teams, who have been surprise packages this term. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1
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Sam Allardyce backs James Tomkins' claim Robin van Persie deliberately
elbowed him
14:35, 10 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The Hammers boss has come out to support his player, while he has also
confirmed that the club are close to landing Lassana Diarra on a free
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has has backed James Tomkins' claim that he was deliberately
elbowed by Robin van Persie and accused the Dutchman of trying to "take him
out". Mirror Sport revealed earlier on Tuesday that Tomkins has been left
annoyed by the challenge - which took place in West Ham's 1-1 draw at home
to Manchester United on Sunday. Tomkins, 25, had his nose accidentally
broken by Reds midfielder Marouane Fellaini during the match. But he was
left more incensed by what he described as a "malicious" act by Van Persie.
Allardyce said: "I thought it was pretty naughty. The old: 'Have a little
look see where the defender is' then take him out. "But the assistant
referee decided to flag for a foul and I thought it was much more than
that."
Tomkins had said: "It is tough to say he does it deliberately. But with the
Van Persie one, I think he has a look at me first then he has gone for me."
The Hammers are also frustrated by the lack of action taken by the officials
over the incident. The FA have already confirmed there will be no
retrospective punishment as it was seen by the assistant referee. Allardyce
revealed Tomkins remains in line to play in tomorrow night's crunch clash at
Southampton with both clubs pushing for the top four. He added: "He has
broken his nose but I dont think its severe enough to concern us abut
leaving him out. So that's okay. "As long as he is fit and available to play
on Wednesday that's the most important thing for us."
Meanwhile Allardyce is hopeful of signing ex-Real Madrid midfielder Lassana
Diarra on a free transfer after confirming the France international is
training with the Hammers. Diarra, 29, has been without a club since a
bust-up saw him quit Lokomotiv Moscow in August. He was close to signing for
QPR last summer but the deal was blocked by the Russian club who still held
his registration. Once that situation was resolved West Ham tried to do a
deal with the ex-Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth star. But they balked at
his wage demands and turned their attentions to Manchester United's Darren
Fletcher. With that deal breaking down, however, the Hammers have turned
back to Diarra who has worked hard to impress in training and is close to
match fitness. A deal is expected to be completed in the coming days.
Allardyce said: "He is training with us. "I'm not so sure whether we have
finalised a deal yet but he is doing a little bit of training with us. The
deal is very close to being finalised and on the basis of where we are with
our squad and the injuries, once we have him fit he will be a very good
addition based on his previous record as a footballer." "He won't be in any
good shape in terms of being on the bench on Wednesday or on the bench on
Saturday against West Brom," added Allardyce. "But I certainly hope that,
with a good few days training with the lads, he will be close in seven to 10
days if he finally signs the contract."
If the move comes off, it could be seen as something of a coup for the
Hammers as Diarra brings experience and has also tasted trophy success,
winning the FA Cup with both Chelsea and Portsmouth and the Spanish title at
Madrid.
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Robin van Persie deserved FA ban for his elbow on James Tomkins, claims Jose
Mourinho
14:20, 10 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
Chelsea boss says Manchester United striker should have been punished for
clash with West Ham defender during Sunday's 1-1 draw at Upton Park
The Mirror
Jose Mourinho believes Robin van Persie deserved to be hit with an FA ban -
just like his star striker Diego Costa was. Chelsea boss Mourinho was
stunned Manchester United frontman Van Persie escaped punishment for
catching West Ham defender James Tomkins with a flailing arm in Sunday's 1-1
draw. Mourinho hit out at the inconsistency after seeing Costa receive a
retrospective three-game ban for stamping on Liverpool midfielder Emre Can
last month Referee Mark Clattenburg saw Van Persie's clash with Tomkins and
decided to only award West Ham a free-kick. Mourinho said: "I need a little
bit more time to forget why my player was suspended, to understand why some
people are punished and others aren't. "I need a little bit more time to
process that. I was with (had) lots of attention this weekend.
The same people who suspended my player didn't want to suspend a player this
weekend, and a player could have been suspended this weekend and he wasn't.
"I'm still processing that information."
Mourinho didn't name Van Persie but when asked who he was referring to, the
Blues boss mimicked the Dutchman's action at Upton Park by swinging his arm
in the air. The Special One said: "Somebody who did this in the face of
somebody, and nothing happened. I know that if it was one of mine…" And
Mourinho brought up two more cases from last season to back up his claims of
double standards when it comes to Chelsea and the punishments dished out.
That came after Manchester City's Yaya Toure was let off despite being
caught on camera kicking Norwich's Ricky van Wolfswinkel in another incident
missed by the officials. Mourinho said: "Last season, the same thing
happened when Ramires was suspended but a Man City player kicked a player at
Norwich who was on the floor and nothing happened. I'm used to it."
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West Ham set for multi million windfall
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It has just been announced that Premier League TV Rights have been sold for
£5.136 billion for 2016-2019 up from £3.018 billion for the current deal
with Sky and BT. Sky will pay £4.176 billion – £11.04m per game while BT
will pay £960m – £7.6m per game The extra £2.1 billion will be shared by the
20 Premier League clubs meaning each club could receive as much as £33
million per season. Although a formula is yet to be worked out the money
will be divided according to an equal share, facility fees depending on the
number of games shown on TV plus a merit payment based on your final league
position. Last season the Hammers earned £21,631,444 in an equal share,
£11,584,228 in facility fees and £9,888,664 in a merit payment for finishing
13th in UK rights plus another £26,295,817 for overseas rights and
£4,270,850 from commercial rights. The total of £73,671,003 for last season
will be completely blown away by the new TV rights deal and as long as we
can stay in the Premier League for the 2016/2017 in the Olympic Stadium we
could be in line for as much as £150m of TV rights money for that season,
maybe more!
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Landslide could affect fans travel to Hawthorns
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Following a landslide on the rail route between London and Birmingham,
Chiltern Railways are currently unable to run direct trains from Marylebone
to the West Midlands. Trains are running from London to Banbury, and from
Leamington Spa to the West Midlands. Between Banbury and Leamington Spa a
"step-straight-on" replacement bus operates. Chiltern Railways say they are
aware that this may affect some West Ham fans that are travelling to the
Hawthorns on the 14th February who have already purchased train tickets, and
can provide the following advice below:
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Gold: "Nothing's changed with Sam"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has told Tony Cottee there will be no contract talks with Sam
Allardyce until the end of the season! The former Hammers striker had used
this website to blast the two Davids for not getting a deal sorted out now
claiming the manager has done everything that could have been expected of
him. And he believes the end of season is thew wrong time anyway explaining
that it creates a climate of uncertainty throughout the club. But speaking
exclsuively to ClaretandHugh, the co chairman said: "It's the way we do our
business – it's the way things work with us and nothing will change.
"Whether we are top of the league or bottom we talk at the end of the
season. It's very simple and very straightforward and that's how it will be
again. "Sam Allardyce's west Ham future will be sorted out when the campaign
comes to an end – that's the top and bottom of it."
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Cottee blast for owners over Allardyce
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Tony Cottee has delivered an icy "what are you waiting for" blast at the two
Davids following Sam Allardyce's admission that there has been no contract
offer to him yet! Asked in his morning presser whether there had been any
discussions Allardyce said: "Not yet. There's still a way to go but we'll
talk when the time is right." And Cottee -talking exclusively to
ClaretandHugh admitted: "I don't get it – what are the owners waiting for?
They are playing Russian roulette with the club. "It's not what's right for
them, Karren Brady, Sam Allardyce or anyone else but what's best for West
Ham United. "I really don't know what else Sam and Neil McDonald have to do
to get a new deal. They have done everything required and this idea that the
owners only do business at the end of the season is wrong. "There are
pre-season tours to be organised and why would Sam be interested if he isn't
sure whether he will be here.
"The fact is he is standing there with a fantastic record and nobody has
made a move in his direction – I just don't get it because there are plenty
of clubs who will want Sam Allardyce . "He keeps teams in the division and
it's desperately important we stay up next season and the one after that as
our first in the new stadium. The owners need to get the deal done."
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WHUFC.com
Everything you need to know about Wednesday's trip to Southampton
10.02.2015
SOUTHAMPTON v WEST HAM UNITED
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
ST MARY'S STADIUM
WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2015
KICK-OFF: 7.45PM
REFEREE: CRAIG PAWSON
In brief
West Ham United travel to the south coast to face in form Southampton just
four days after drawing with Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground. Earlier
in the season, the Saints won 3-1 in the reverse fixture and Sam Allardyce's
men will be looking for revenge come Wednesday eveing. Ronald Koeman's
Southampton have defied all the odds and proved the doubters wrong as they
currently sit in third, having taken 45 points from 24 games. However, the
Saints have lost their last two home league games, a 3-2 defeat by Crystal
Palace and a 1-0 defeat by Swansea City.
Who are they?
Southampton were formed in 1885 and have been known as the Saints ever since
due to their history as a church side, being known as St Mary's YMA in their
early days. Their high point was winning the FA Cup in 1976, famously
beating Manchester United in the final, while they also reached the final in
1900, 1902 and 2003 - when they were defeated by Arsenal. The Saints'
highest ever league finish is second in 1983/84 and, like the Hammers, they
are in their third season back in the top flight after being promoted from
the Championship in 2012. Other honours include the Football League Trophy,
which they won at Wembley in 2010, and the Southern League - which they won
six times around the turn of the 20th century prior to becoming a Football
League club.
Team news
West Ham United
The Hammers will still be without defenders James Collins and Winston Reid
who missed Sunday's draw with Manchester United. Likewise, Diego Poyet and
Doneil Henry are also likely to miss out. Captain Kevin Nolan faces a race
against time to overcome a foot injury sustained against Manchester United.
England international Andy Carroll faces a late fitness test to determine
whether is able to feature or not.
Southampton
Toby Alderweireld (hamstring) and Matt Targett (concussion) are unlikely to
feature as are Shane Long and Lloyd Isgrove. Jay Rodriguez is Southampton's
long term absentee while Ryan Bertrand is suspended.
Referee
The man in the middle for Wednesday's fixture is Craig Pawson. The Sheffield
based official has been in charge of one West Ham game this season - the
Hammers' 3-1 win over Liverpool in September. The 35-year-old referee also
refereed the Saints' 2-0 New Year's Day victory over Arsenal. The assistant
referees are Ian Hussin and Adrian Holmes, Neil Swarbrick is the fourth
official.
One to watch
West Ham United
Following his terrific display at centre-back against Manchester United
Cheikhou Kouyate has somewhat eased Sam Allardyce's defensive injury
problems. The Senegalese international was unfazed at the prospect of
marking Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao, capping an excellent
performance with a quality goal which almost gave the Hammers a deserved
win.
Southampton Kouyate's Senegalese teammate Sadio Mane has been in impressive
form for the Saints this season, scoring six goals, most recently in the 1-0
away win at Queens Park Rangers. The Saints have never lost when Mane scores
so the Hammers will need to stop him in order to get a result at St. Mary's
Stadium.
Tickets
All Standard Tickets for this fixture have SOLD OUT. Wheelchair/Carer
Tickets are available but must be purchased in advance of the fixture.
Travel
For all your travel information on how to get to and from St Mary's please
click here.
Weather
Wednesday evening is set to be a cloudy night with a chance of rain starting
into the night. Temperatures at kick-off of are forecast to be 5C (41F).
Last away meeting
Southampton 0-0 West Ham United
Barclays Premier League
15 September 2013
Southampton: Boruc, Clyne, Lovren, Fonte, Shaw (Chambers 77), Schneiderlin,
Wanyama, Lallana (Ward-Prowse 72), Lambert, Rodriguez, Osvaldo
Subs: Davis, Hooiveld, Davis, Ramirez, Do Prado
West Ham United: Jaaskelainen, Reid, O'Brien, Collins, Demel (Rat 61) Nolan,
Jarvis, Morrison (Taylor 77) Noble, Diame, Maiga (Vaz Te 68)
Subs: Adrian, Tomkins, Collison, Lee
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Adrian keen to overcome late blow
WHUFC.com
West Ham United goalkeeper Adrian says the Hammers will take inspiration
from Sunday's performance
09.02.2015
Adrian may have been beaten late on by Manchester United's Daley Blind on
Sunday as Louis van Gaal's team snatched a point at the Boleyn Ground, but
the Spanish stopper will be focusing on the many positive aspects of the
Hammers' performance as they build towards Southampton. Sam Allardyce's men
travel to the South Coast on Wednesday looking for the maximum point haul
which eluded them at the weekend, despite taking the lead through Cheikhou
Kouyate and holding it right up until the final minute. While admitting that
came as a blow, Adrian said observers only had to look at how much busier
his opposite number was to show who should have won. "It was a good
challenge between Spanish keepers," he explained. "De Gea made some very
good saves on Sunday - he saved them really. "We absolutely deserved the
three points. "We played well and showed a good performance, but this is
football. "We didn't score the second goal to kill the game. They have good
players and scored in the last minute. "Of course it was difficult to come
off the pitch with a 1-1 draw after they scored in the 92nd minute, but we
felt good and deserved the three points. "We need to take that into the next
game against Southampton now because that will be a tough game."
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Big Sam on: Southampton
WHUFC.com
The manager talks to the press ahead of Wednesday's trip to Southampton
10.02.2015
Sam Allardyce faced the media on Tuesday ahead of West Ham United's Barclays
Premier League trip to Southampton. The Hammers are looking for maximum
points after only being denied at the death by Manchester United at the
weekend. Big Sam provided an update on injury news, his team's prospects at
St Mary's and more.
Hi Sam, is there any news on the injured players who weren't available for
United on Sunday?
SA: "The possibility would be Andy Carroll. He may be fit but it'll be touch
and go right up until we leave tomorrow morning. Kevin Nolan has a bruised
instep which is causing us some concern, at the moment we don't know if
he'll be able to but his boots on or not. That's obviously a blow to us and
the rest who were unavailable are still out. We're short on numbers but very
high on confidence."
James Tomkins took a bit of a bashing, and was talking about Robin van
Persie perhaps getting a red card for an elbow. What did you think of that
argument?
SA: "He broke his nose but it's not serious enough to keep him out. From a
challenge point of view I thought it was pretty naughty, he had a look to
see where the defender was and then took him out basically. The assistant
referee gave a foul but he didn't think it was more serious. Tomkins should
be fit to play tomorrow night which is the most important thing for us."
Your comments about long ball Manchester United have certainly created a
buzz. Are you surprised at how much of a fuss has been made out of it?
SA: "No. The media love a bit of a tale, something to write about. It was a
fact and everyone loves facts. On Sunday it was Man United playing direct
football to try and overcome a defeat and it paid off for them. That's how
they got back into the game and sadly for us there wasn't time for us to
react."
Playing Southampton on Wednesday tonight. West Ham have never won at St.
Mary's, what would a win do for your season?
SA: "I think for us, it's just trying to take each game as it comes. With 14
games left we're coming to the end of the season, we've done so well and
come far. We want to get more wins than draws because we've slipped down the
table a little bit. Southampton have managed to keep on winning, but we've
let leads slip and ended up drawing too many times. They've lost their last
league game against Swansea City which we've studied."
Is there any more news about your contract situation?
SA: "Not yet. There's still a way to go but we'll talk when the time is
right."
Would you like to be here next season?
SA: "We'll have to see what the contract says! But seriously, there's a lot
of work to be done here and the potential of the squad is very exciting. The
way the club is going with the new stadium round the corner it is an
exciting time."
Lassana Diarra has been training with you for a few weeks, what is the
situation with Diarra at the moment?
SA: "I'm not sure what the state of negotiations are but he has been
training with us recently. As soon as he is fit and ready he'll be a great
addition to our squad."
He's a vastly experienced player and he's played at several big clubs, what
is his state of fitness at the moment?
SA: "He's not ready to be involved in first team but hopefully he's not too
far away. We're not in any rush but he would be a good addition if and when
it happens."
A disappointing result in the end, but plenty of positives to take from
Sunday games?
SA: "Exactly, and we have to pick up from where we left against United. They
gave everything they possibly had and we want to maintain that level in
every game for the rest of the season. The main difficulty is recovery,
because we haven't had much time. Southampton playing on Saturday have also
had an extra day to recover. So Wednesday night is all about our attitude
and determination. We're going to
need to push ourselves in order to win. We had a bit of a lull in our
performances recently but to see us back to near our best was a big
boost. We don't want our season to fade away."
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Hammers to honour Peters
WHUFC.com
Martin Peters MBE will become the third recipient of the Club's Lifetime
Achievement Award at the annual Player Awards
10.02.2015
West Ham United are pleased to announce that Martin Peters MBE will become
the third recipient of the Club's Lifetime Achievement Award.
The 1966 World Cup winner will be honoured at the annual Player Awards
brought to you by Betway and in aid of the Academy, which this year take
place on Wednesday 6 May at the London Hilton on Park Lane. 71-year-old
Peters came through the famed Academy at West Ham to play a pivotal role in
the golden period of the 1960s, even though he missed out on an involvement
in the 1964 FA Cup winning effort. The following year he played a full role
as the Hammers lifted the European Cup Winners' Cup and then returned to
Wembley a year later to win the World Cup with England. He would go on to
score exactly 100 goals for the Hammers in 364 appearances - a fine record
for a midfielder - before enjoying further success with Tottenham Hotspur
and Norwich City, ending a remarkable 22-year professional career with
Sheffield United. The complete midfielder, Peters' versatility was such that
he played in every position for the Hammers - including in goal when
replacing the injured Brian Rhodes in just his third game for the Club.
Peters was made an MBE in 1978 and follows in the footsteps of Billy Bonds
MBE and Sir Trevor Brooking in receiving the Hammers' Lifetime Achievement
Award. Born in Plaistow on 8 November 1943, Peters came through the ranks at
his local Club to sign as an apprentice under manager Ted Fenton in 1959. He
would make his first team debut on Good Friday 1962 in a 4-1 home victory
against Cardiff City. Peters' first goal for the Club would follow in
September of that year.
Peters made 36 League appearances in 1962/63 and 32 in 1963/64, but would
not be involved as the Hammers won their first FA Cup that year. He would
not miss out twelve months later as West Ham defeated TSV 1860 Munich to win
the European Cup Winners' Cup. A further chance for Hammers silverware
arrived in 1966 when they reached the League Cup final, in those days played
over two legs. Peters scored in the second game, but West Bromwich Albion
triumphed 5-3 on aggregate. However, Peters, Bobby Moore and Geoff Hurst
bounced back from that disappointment to lead England to World Cup glory.
The 1968/69 season would be Peters' most prolific for the Hammers, as he
knocked in 24 goals from 48 matches, and a year later he was on the move to
north London, as Tottenham Hotspur paid £200,000 for his services.
Peters' run of success would continue at White Hart Lane as he won the
League Cup in 1971 and 1973 and the UEFA Cup in 1972. Five-and-a-half years
with Norwich and a half-season at Sheffield United followed, before he
ventured into a brief foray in management with the Blades. In total he made
882 appearances in professional football, scoring 220 goals and adding a
further 20 to that in 67 England caps.
Following football, he moved into the insurance business and still works as
a matchday host to this day with the Hammers.
Martin Peters' Lifetime Achievement Award will be one of a host of
prestigious trophies awarded at the 2014/15 Player Awards, bought to you by
Betway, in Aid of the Academy.
Who will take the honours this season? You can be there at the Hilton London
on Park Lane on Wednesday 6 May to find out!
Our annual Player Awards night promises a night of fine dining and Hammers
entertainment as we look back at the highlights of the year.
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Tomkins signs new contract
WHUFC.com
James Tomkins has signed a new long-term contract with West Ham United
10.02.2015
West Ham United are delighted to announce that James Tomkins has signed a
new contract with the Club until summer 2020. The new deal will take the
Academy of Football graduate past 20 years of service to the Hammers, who he
joined as a seven-year-old schoolboy in 1996.
The Basildon-born centre-back has been in outstanding form this season,
helping the Hammers to a record-breaking Barclays Premier League start and
the FA Cup fifth round. "I think it's brilliant that the Club has shown
faith in me and offered me this deal and I'm delighted to sign it," said the
25-year-old, who made his first-team debut at 18 in March 2008. "I've been
here since I was seven and this is a long-term deal which is going to take
me up until I'm in my thirties, so it's nice to commit my future here. "It's
been a good season, but it's still got a little way to go yet and the job is
not done. We've had a good year so far and we want to continue it. I feel
like my performances have come along a lot this year and I am just enjoying
playing really."
While in previous decades West Ham might have allowed a home-grown hero like
Tomkins to leave the Club, the Hammers are now committed to keeping their
best players for the future. With excitement growing around the move to the
Club's 54,000-capacity new home in 2016, the defender says it is a great
time to be part of West Ham United. "Being a West Ham fan, I want to spend
my future here as it is exciting times with the Olympic Stadium move coming
up in 2016," continued Tomkins, who has played 205 times in Claret and Blue.
"The Club is going in the direction I wanted it to go and I want to be
involved in. It's exciting all-round, for the Club and for me. "It's a good
time and this year has been a great step forward. Now we just need to see it
out. I look back at all the times I've been in the team, from when I made my
debut at 18-years-old, and this is as well as we've done. Now we need to
keep it going until the end of the season, because we have a lot of hard
games coming up. "What the Board and everyone at the Club has done to get
the new Stadium shows the direction we want to be taking - we want to be
going forwards and not backwards and that's certainly where we're heading.
It's a great time for us. We want to leave Upton Park on a high, so it's
important we do the very best we can over the next 18 months leading up to
the move."
Looking to the more immediate future, West Ham face two exciting and
challenging fixtures on the back of Sunday's thrilling draw with Manchester
United. On Wednesday, the Hammers go to Southampton in the Barclays Premier
League ahead of Saturday's FA Cup tie at West Bromwich Albion. "Southampton
are doing really well at the moment and they're obviously a great team,
which they are proving week in, week out with their consistency," Tomkins
observed. "It's a hard place to go as they don't concede many goals, but
it's a game we're all looking forward to on the back of a good performance
against Manchester United. "We showed signs of where we are at the minute by
competing against such a good team, and now we face another one in
Southampton and we need to approach it in the right way. "It's hard to focus
on the FA Cup just yet because of the game on Wednesday, but it's exciting
being involved in an FA Cup run. West Brom will be hard to beat with Tony
Pulis in charge and you know his teams don't give away much. It's going to
be tough but hopefully we can get a win. If we get to a quarter-final, who
knows how far we can go?"
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Tomkins: West Ham defender signs new deal until 2020
BBC.co.uk
West Ham United defender James Tomkins has signed a new contract at the
club, which will keep him at Upton Park until 2020. The 25-year-old joined
West Ham as a schoolboy in 1996 and is a graduate of the club's academy.
"It's brilliant that the club has shown faith in me and I'm delighted to
sign [this contract]," Tomkins said. Tomkins, whose new deal will take him
past 20 years of service at West Ham, has made 205 appearances for the club.
He suffered a broken nose in Sunday's draw against Manchester United.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Louis van Gaal uses diagrams to defend Man Utd 'long-ball' claims
BBC.co.uk
Louis van Gaal displayed a series of diagrams to journalists as he hit back
at Sam Allardyce's claim that Manchester United are a long-ball team. West
Ham boss Allardyce described Van Gaal's side as "long-ball United" after the
teams drew 1-1 at Upton Park.
But Van Gaal disputed the assertion. "Because I expected this question, I
have made an interpretation of the data for this game and then I have to say
that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam," said the Dutchman. "You
have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play long balls,
but long balls wide rather than to the striker."
The statistics, contained in four A4 sheets of paper, were put together by
Van Gaal's analysis team. They claim West Ham sent a higher percentage of
their long passes forward than the visitors. According to the figures, West
Ham attempted a total of 200 passes during the game and United 343. Of those
passes, 45 (22.5%) of West Ham's were long - more than 25 metres - compared
to 83 (24.2%) of United's.
However, United claim fewer than half of their 83 long passes went forward
(49.9%), compared to almost three-quarters (71.1%) of West Ham's 45.
Diagrams generated by United showed that many of the visitors' passes went
sideways or diagonally, rather than forward. Van Gaal insisted his team only
started playing long balls forward after 6ft 4in Marouane Fellaini came on
in the 76th minute of the draw at Upton Park. Daley Blind rescued a point
with a 93rd-minute equaliser after Cheikhou Kouyate's volley put West Ham
ahead. According to Opta, Van Gaal's United do play more long balls - under
their definition "launches of the ball by a team that have no clear aim" -
than the sides of David Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson during the previous two
seasons.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham: Lassana Diarra close to Hammers deal - Sam Allardyce
BBc.co.uk
Former Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with West Ham and
close to signing a deal with them. The Frenchman, 29, has been without a
club since being released by Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow in August 2014.
"He is training with us," said Hammers boss Sam Allardyce. "The deal is very
close to being finalised. "Once fit he will be a good addition. I hope, with
a good few days' training, he will be close in seven to 10 days - if he
finally signs the contract." Diarra has previously had spells at Arsenal,
Chelsea and Portsmouth during spells in England. "He won't be in any good
shape in terms of being on the bench on Wednesday or on the bench on
Saturday against West Brom," added Allardyce.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Southampton v West Ham
KO 19:45
10 February 2015
Last updated at 12:46
By Simon Brotherton
Match of the Day commentator
BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE
Venue: St Mary's Stadium Date: Wednesday, 11 February
TEAM NEWS
Southampton have problems at left-back with Ryan Bertrand still suspended
and Matt Targett out with a head injury. Morgan Schneiderlin is an injury
doubt, but new signing Filip Djuricic could play after receiving his work
permit.
West Ham boss Sam Allardyce says Andy Carroll is "touch and go" to return
from a knee injury, while Kevin Nolan could miss out with a foot problem.
James Tomkins is available despite breaking his nose on Sunday as Winston
Reid and James Collins remain absent.
MATCH PREVIEW
Whatever happens at St Mary's, it's highly unlikely we'll hear Sam Allardyce
talking about any long-ball tactics from Southampton in his post-match
interviews. He was left lamenting how Manchester United had found a
93rd-minute equaliser on Sunday but was right to feel so positive about how
his team had played. Injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations haven't helped
lately, but this was a timely return to form for West Ham, who haven't
performed at quite the same level since Christmas.
Lawro's prediction
"Southampton were not great against QPR at the weekend but they still won.
They have key players like Morgan Schneiderlin and Victor Wanyama coming
back to full fitness too, and it will make a big difference when they get
the heartbeat of their team back."
Predictions: Lawro v Arsenal Ladies star Kelly Smith I've seen them on the
road twice in the last three weeks and felt they were professional in
overcoming a potentially awkward fixture at Bristol City in the FA Cup, but
struggled in a 2-0 league defeat against Liverpool.
After winning only one of their last seven in the Premier League, the
Hammers go looking for a first win at Southampton in nearly 15 years. They
weren't the only team to concede in the 93rd minute at the weekend - QPR did
too against Southampton . Sadio Mane's late goal secured all three points
and he's a man in form in front of goal, having scored in his last four
Premier League starts. Saturday's result moved Ronald Koeman's team up to
third in the table and they've now won six of the last eight in the league,
which has left their pre-Christmas blip firmly in the rearview mirror.
Southampton strolled to a 3-1 victory when the teams last met at the end of
August, giving Koeman his first league win as manager. West Ham's campaign
hadn't made it out of first gear at the time, with defeat by Saints meaning
they had started the season with three in a row at home in all competitions.
Things have clearly moved on and, while Southampton have the meanest defence
in the Premier League and are in fine form, this could be a really good game
if West Ham can play as well as they did against Manchester United on
Sunday.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Ham have gone five games without a win at Southampton since a 3-2
victory in November 2000.
Southampton can do the double over West Ham in the Premier League for the
first time since 1997-98.
Southampton
Following five successive wins, Southampton have lost three of their last
six Premier League home matches (W2, D1, L3).
Southampton have conceded the fewest Premier League goals this season (17)
and no side has kept more clean sheets. Both Saints and league leaders
Chelsea have 11.
Ronald Koeman's side have dropped just two points from a winning position
this season, the fewest in the Premier League.
Saints have hit the woodwork 14 times in the league this season, more than
any other team. Graziano Pelle is responsible for six of these.
Top scorer Pelle has not found the net in seven league games.
West Ham United
The Hammers have won just one of their last seven Premier League away games
(W1, D3, L3).
They haven't kept a clean sheet away from home in 17 league games.
West Ham have 37 points from 24 matches, their best tally at this stage of a
top-flight season since 1985-86 (48pts), when they finished third.
They have scored a league-high 14 headed goals this season. Diafra Sakho has
scored five of those - two more than any other player in the league.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Five more years for James Tomkins
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's James Tomkins has signed a new five-year deal with West
Ham. The 25-year-old Basildon born defender has been at the club since the
age of seven and has since made 205 first team appearances for the club -
the same as legendary sixties striker Johhny 'Budgie' Byrne (205) and more
than eighties legend Frank McAvennie (191). His existing four year deal was
set to expire next summer (2016) and whilst West Ham had the option of
triggering a further 12 months, they opted instead to secure Tomkins' future
with a new five-year deal that potentially keeps him at the club until 2020.
"I think it's brilliant that the Club has shown faith in me and offered me
this deal - and I'm delighted to sign it," Tomkins told whufc.com this
afternoon. "I've been here since I was seven and this is a long-term deal
which is going to take me up until I'm in my thirties, so it's nice to
commit my future. "Being a West Ham fan, I want to spend my future here as
it is exciting times with the Olympic Stadium move coming up in 2016. The
club is going in the direction I wanted it to go and I want to be involved
in. It's exciting all-round, for the club and for me. "It's a good time and
this year has been a great step forward. Now we just need to see it out. I
look back at all the times I've been in the team, from when I made my debut
at 18-years-old, and this is as well as we've done. Now we need to keep it
going until the end of the season, because we have a lot of hard games
coming up. "We want to be going forwards, not backwards - and that's
certainly where we're heading. It's a great time for us. We want to leave
Upton Park on a high, so it's important we do the very best we can over the
next 18 months leading up to the move."
James Tomkins: season stats
2007/08: Pld 6 Bkd 0 Red 0 Gls 0
2008/09: Pld 15 Bkd 0 Red 1 Gls 1 (Derby Pld 8 Bkd 1 Red 1 Gls 0)
2009/10: Pld 26 Bkd 0 Red 0 Gls 0
2010/11: Pld 28 Bkd 3 Red 0 Gls 1
2011/12: Pld 47 Bkd 6 Red 0 Gls 4
2012/13: Pld 29 Bkd 5 Red 0 Gls 1
2013/14: Pld 35 Bkd 6 Red 1 Gls 0
2014/15: Pld 19 Bkd 5 Red 0 Gls 1
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Koeman cool on Carroll threat
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Ronald Koeman admits his tactical approach to Wednesday's clash with West
Ham depends much upon the potential inclusion of one player.
Southampton's 51-year-old Dutch manager admitted today that if Andy Carroll
plays at St Mary's on Wednesday, his entire game plan will change - due to
the distinct styles which he believes West Ham employ when either with or
without the big target man. According to Koeman, whose team are currently
third in the Premier League having enjoyed a fantastic season so far, the
Hammers are far more likely to play direct should Carroll feature in the
side. However he admitted that Sam Allardyce's side have the ability to mix
it up and play more possession-based football - as was the case against
Manchester United at the Boleyn Ground on Sunday afternoon. "It'll be a
difficult game. I watched the game last Sunday and I think they played very
well and were physically strong," he said during this morning's pre-match
press conference. "Much depends on whether they start with [Andy] Carroll,
as with him they can play a little bit more direct. [On Sunday] they showed
they can play good football without him. It was difficult but they had very
good opportunities to kill the game and very a little bit unlucky to only
get one point. "West Ham always have options to play in a different style.
What you have to do as a manager is to play with the best qualities the
players have. The easiest way to attack is a long ball - like we do.
Sometimes we play a long ball to [Graziano] Pelle because in one pass,
you're close to the opponent's box. Then you can begin pressing your
opponent. "I always prefer to play football but sometimes it's a good
option, if you have a player like [Andy] Carroll or [Marouane] Fellaini at
Manchester United, to do something different. To try a different way to
score goals is allowed."
With specific regard to Carroll - who failed a late-fitness test before
Sunday's game but is expected to be available tomorrow - and the threat
posed by the England international -Koeman plans to keep him as far away
from goal as possible. "We'll try to keep him out of the box. We know we
have to prepare ourselves for that," he surmised. "If he is playing then we
have to press the goalkeeper, we have to press the defenders and try to keep
out the long ball they like to play. "If he's not playing that means a
different style with Sakho and Valencia. They are very fast; good players,
good attackers. That means we'll need to defend against our opponents a
different way. "It's two different styles of playing. With Carroll it's more
long ball and second ball, without it's much more about ball possession and
much more movement from the two fast attackers. That means we have to defend
differently, but it's no so difficult [to change]."
* West Ham face Southampton at St Mary's tomorrow night (Wednesday). 7.45pm
(GMT) kick off.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Press officer gives the game away
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
There was a priceless moment at this morning's Manchester United press
conference when the club's Media Officer presented documents relating to
Sunday's game with West Ham to the press. Red Devils boss Louis Van Gaal had
insisted that a series of documents, setting out why Manchester United
should not be hailed as a 'long ball' team be distributed to journalists
present at a club press conference this morning. However his media officer
appeared to inadvertently expose her true feelings about the matter when she
grimaced visibly when handing the documents from Van Gaal to the press - as
you may see in the video below! West Ham manager Sam Allardyce referred to
last weekend's opponents as 'long ball United' during his post-match press
conference on Sunday evening (which you may read exclusively in full here).
West Ham took the lead in Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester
United through Cheik Kouyate four minutes into the second half - before the
visitors snatched a point they barely deserved thorough a 93rd-minute Daley
Blind effort.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Did we touch a nerve? Van Gaal takes umbrage to 'long ball' claim
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce's cheeky reference to last weekend's opponents as 'long ball
United' may have raised a few smiles amongst Hammers fans - although
Manchester United's Louis Van Gaal was far from impressed by the tag. The
under-pressure Dutch manager was so incensed by Allardyce's jibe that he
arrived at a press conference today armed with sheets of data designed to
counter Big Sam's claims - which were the subject of the first question
asked of the 63-year-old. "When a colleague of mine is saying this kind of
thing then you have to put the data in the right context," he said. "I think
the media is also coming to the match and you have a lot of opinions about
me. "You have to look at the data and then you will see that we did play
long balls, but long balls wide, rather than to the striker. A ball to the
forward striker is mainly caused by long-ball play. "Because I expected
this question, I have made an interpretation of the data for this game and
then I have to say that it is not a good interpretation from Big Sam. "I am
sorry, but we are playing ball possession play and after 70 minutes we did
not succeed, in spite of many chances in the second half, so I changed my
playing style. Then, of course, with the quality of Fellaini we played more
forward balls and we scored from that, so I think it was a very good
decision of the manager.
"But, when you see the overall long ball percentage, West Ham have played 71
per cent of their long balls to the forwards and we 49. When you have 60 per
cent ball possession you cannot play long balls. "So again, they did it 71
and we 49, and I give it you, you can copy it and then maybe you can go to
Big Sam and he will get a good interpretation."
According to stats site Who Scored, Manchester United enjoyed 57 per cent
possession to West Ham's 43 per cent during Sunday's match, which ended 1-1
- making a total of 414 passes to the Hammers' 284. Whilst West Ham made 57
long passes, Manchester United made 86 - regardless of the direction.
Additionally 49 of West Ham's passes were played aerially, compared to 65
from Manchester United.
West Ham made a total of 226 forward passes compared to the Red Devils' 316
- playing the ball back 105 times, in contract to the visitors' 152 passes
toward their own goal.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Poyet learning his trade, happy as back-up
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 10th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Diego Poyet has revealed he is happy being a squad member at West Ham - for
now. Unlike many of his contemporaries, who would no doubt be banging down
the manager's door demanding a place in the first team, the 19-year-old
midfielder displayed a refreshing attitude to life as a Premier League
footballer. And instead of complaining about his lack of opportunities -
Poyet has featured on just five occasions for West Ham so far - the
youngster insists that he is enjoying his time learning from his peers. "I'm
really enjoying it at West Ham," he told kicca.com. "People sometimes think
I'm not enjoying it as I'm not playing as much as I was last year at
Charlton, but I'm part of a great team and a great club who are doing well
in the Premier League and the FA Cup.
"I'm very, very happy here and happy to be a squad player for now and wait
for my chance. If I need game time I play for the club's Under-21 side so it
keeps me ticking over, get minutes under my belt and then I'll be ready
should my chance come. "I'm only 19 and there a lot of quality players in
front of me, but I'll just keep training and be prepared when I get my
chance. Quality-wise it's been a big step up from Charlton but now I've got
used to it. It was quite tough as a new player at the start but now I really
feel part of it."
The Zaragoza-born Poyet, who learnt to speak both English and Spanish as a
child - the result of his father Gus' Uruguayan roots - also revealed that
he has developed a close relationship with fellow Spanish speaker Enner
Valencia, who along wih Diafra Sakho "have been on fire".
But it is another Spanish speaker in the squad - on loan Barca star Alex
Song - who he feels mostly connected to as a player. "He's a fantastic
person as well as a fantastic player," added Poyet. "Although he plays in
the same position as me and limits my chances I learn so much off him.
"When I watch the games I just watch him as that can only help me. He
assists more than people think, has got a great pass on him and is so
comfortable on the ball. He's a very important player for us."
Poyet's five appearances for West Ham since making the switch from Charlton
last summer have included three in the Premier League (at Crystal Palace,
Manchester United and Swansea), one in the FA Cup (Everton away) and just
the one appearance in front of the Boleyn faithful (Sheffield United in the
Capital One Cup). He also featured twice for Huddersfield during a
month-long loan spell last November.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham closing in on former Chelsea star Lassana Diarra
Last Updated: 10/02/15 11:39am
SSN
Former Real Madrid midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with West Ham with
a view to earning a short-term contract. Diarra is a free agent after having
his contract at Lokomotiv Moscow terminated last August following a fall-out
with coach Leonid Kuchuk. The 29-year-old has been linked with Newcastle,
Queens Park Rangers and Celtic in the last few months. But the former
Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth player hopes to secure a deal at West Ham
until the end of the campaign. Upton Park boss Sam Allardyce confirmed the
news at his press conference ahead of Wednesday's Premier League match at
Southampton. "He is training with us," he said. "I'm not so sure whether
we've finalised a deal yet but he has been doing a little bit of training
with us. "I think the deal is very close to being finalised and I think on
the basis of where we are at the minute with our squad and the injuries, as
soon as we get him fit he'll be a really good addition based on his previous
record as a footballer. "He won't be on the bench on Wednesday or Saturday
against West Brom but I certainly hope with a few good days training with
the lads he'll be close in seven or 10 days... if he signs the contract."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
High-flying Southampton take on West Ham at St Mary's Stadium
Last Updated: 10/02/15 4:20pm
SSN
High-flying Southampton will look to maintain their challenge for Champions
League football when they host West Ham at St Mary's Stadium.
Saints needed a stoppage-time goal from Sadio Mane to beat Queens Park
Rangers 1-0 at Loftus Road at the weekend and are now third in the Premier
League table with 14 matches remaining after Manchester United, Arsenal and
Liverpool all dropped points over the weekend.
The Hammers will hope to respond from a result which felt like a loss after
they were denied maximum points when Daley Blind cancelled out Cheikhou
Kouyate's opener at Upton Park on Super Sunday. Sam Allardyce's side have
been hit by a spate of injuries over the last few weeks and have slipped
from fourth spot in late December to eighth in the table with just one win
in their last seven league games.
United will also face Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal before the middle of
March, but the Hammers will take heart from their display against United as
they head to the south coast.
Team news
Southampton will be once again be without Ryan Bertrand (suspension) and
Toby Alderweireld (hamstring). Matt Targett deputised for Bertrand at QPR,
but is doubtful after suffering a first-half head injury, even though
manager Ronald Koeman confirmed the youngster had escaped serious damage.
Sam Allardyce will be forced to field James Tomkins, despite the defender
suffering from a broken nose. Tomkins was caught by Robin van Persie's arm
in Sunday's draw with Manchester United but, with fellow central defenders
Winston Reid and James Collins (both hamstring) still missing, he will again
partner stand-in Cheikhou Kouyate at St Mary's. Allardyce was full of praise
for the Senegal international's performance, which he crowned with a
delightful goal that saw him juggle the ball twice before volleying home.
Allardyce is hopeful Andy Carroll may be available after recovering from an
ankle injury but captain Kevin Nolan (foot) is a doubt whilst Diego Poyet
and Doneil Henry are missing with unspecified problems. Former Real Madrid
midfielder Lassana Diarra is training with the club who are considering
offering the Frenchman a short-term deal until the end of the season.
Opta stats
Southampton have won only one of their last seven home Premier League
matches where the opposition has scored.
The Hammers have won just one of their last seven Premier League away games
(W1 D3 L3).
Following five successive wins, Southampton have lost three of their last
six Premier League home matches (W2 D1 L3).
Southampton have hit the woodwork 14 times in the Premier League this
season; more often than any other team. Graziano Pelle is responsible for
six of these.
West Ham's next Premier League defeat will be their 300th in the
competition.
Merson's prediction
There's not a lot between these two teams. Southampton are still up there,
playing well, and they've had a bit of luck at the same time, but the games
are reeling off now. Before you know it, we'll be down to single-figure
games, and if they're up there, they have a big chance. This is a test for
both teams, who have been surprise packages this term. PAUL PREDICTS: 1-1
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sam Allardyce backs James Tomkins' claim Robin van Persie deliberately
elbowed him
14:35, 10 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The Hammers boss has come out to support his player, while he has also
confirmed that the club are close to landing Lassana Diarra on a free
The Mirror
Sam Allardyce has has backed James Tomkins' claim that he was deliberately
elbowed by Robin van Persie and accused the Dutchman of trying to "take him
out". Mirror Sport revealed earlier on Tuesday that Tomkins has been left
annoyed by the challenge - which took place in West Ham's 1-1 draw at home
to Manchester United on Sunday. Tomkins, 25, had his nose accidentally
broken by Reds midfielder Marouane Fellaini during the match. But he was
left more incensed by what he described as a "malicious" act by Van Persie.
Allardyce said: "I thought it was pretty naughty. The old: 'Have a little
look see where the defender is' then take him out. "But the assistant
referee decided to flag for a foul and I thought it was much more than
that."
Tomkins had said: "It is tough to say he does it deliberately. But with the
Van Persie one, I think he has a look at me first then he has gone for me."
The Hammers are also frustrated by the lack of action taken by the officials
over the incident. The FA have already confirmed there will be no
retrospective punishment as it was seen by the assistant referee. Allardyce
revealed Tomkins remains in line to play in tomorrow night's crunch clash at
Southampton with both clubs pushing for the top four. He added: "He has
broken his nose but I dont think its severe enough to concern us abut
leaving him out. So that's okay. "As long as he is fit and available to play
on Wednesday that's the most important thing for us."
Meanwhile Allardyce is hopeful of signing ex-Real Madrid midfielder Lassana
Diarra on a free transfer after confirming the France international is
training with the Hammers. Diarra, 29, has been without a club since a
bust-up saw him quit Lokomotiv Moscow in August. He was close to signing for
QPR last summer but the deal was blocked by the Russian club who still held
his registration. Once that situation was resolved West Ham tried to do a
deal with the ex-Chelsea, Arsenal and Portsmouth star. But they balked at
his wage demands and turned their attentions to Manchester United's Darren
Fletcher. With that deal breaking down, however, the Hammers have turned
back to Diarra who has worked hard to impress in training and is close to
match fitness. A deal is expected to be completed in the coming days.
Allardyce said: "He is training with us. "I'm not so sure whether we have
finalised a deal yet but he is doing a little bit of training with us. The
deal is very close to being finalised and on the basis of where we are with
our squad and the injuries, once we have him fit he will be a very good
addition based on his previous record as a footballer." "He won't be in any
good shape in terms of being on the bench on Wednesday or on the bench on
Saturday against West Brom," added Allardyce. "But I certainly hope that,
with a good few days training with the lads, he will be close in seven to 10
days if he finally signs the contract."
If the move comes off, it could be seen as something of a coup for the
Hammers as Diarra brings experience and has also tasted trophy success,
winning the FA Cup with both Chelsea and Portsmouth and the Spanish title at
Madrid.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Robin van Persie deserved FA ban for his elbow on James Tomkins, claims Jose
Mourinho
14:20, 10 February 2015 By Adrian Kajumba
Chelsea boss says Manchester United striker should have been punished for
clash with West Ham defender during Sunday's 1-1 draw at Upton Park
The Mirror
Jose Mourinho believes Robin van Persie deserved to be hit with an FA ban -
just like his star striker Diego Costa was. Chelsea boss Mourinho was
stunned Manchester United frontman Van Persie escaped punishment for
catching West Ham defender James Tomkins with a flailing arm in Sunday's 1-1
draw. Mourinho hit out at the inconsistency after seeing Costa receive a
retrospective three-game ban for stamping on Liverpool midfielder Emre Can
last month Referee Mark Clattenburg saw Van Persie's clash with Tomkins and
decided to only award West Ham a free-kick. Mourinho said: "I need a little
bit more time to forget why my player was suspended, to understand why some
people are punished and others aren't. "I need a little bit more time to
process that. I was with (had) lots of attention this weekend.
The same people who suspended my player didn't want to suspend a player this
weekend, and a player could have been suspended this weekend and he wasn't.
"I'm still processing that information."
Mourinho didn't name Van Persie but when asked who he was referring to, the
Blues boss mimicked the Dutchman's action at Upton Park by swinging his arm
in the air. The Special One said: "Somebody who did this in the face of
somebody, and nothing happened. I know that if it was one of mine…" And
Mourinho brought up two more cases from last season to back up his claims of
double standards when it comes to Chelsea and the punishments dished out.
That came after Manchester City's Yaya Toure was let off despite being
caught on camera kicking Norwich's Ricky van Wolfswinkel in another incident
missed by the officials. Mourinho said: "Last season, the same thing
happened when Ramires was suspended but a Man City player kicked a player at
Norwich who was on the floor and nothing happened. I'm used to it."
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West Ham set for multi million windfall
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
It has just been announced that Premier League TV Rights have been sold for
£5.136 billion for 2016-2019 up from £3.018 billion for the current deal
with Sky and BT. Sky will pay £4.176 billion – £11.04m per game while BT
will pay £960m – £7.6m per game The extra £2.1 billion will be shared by the
20 Premier League clubs meaning each club could receive as much as £33
million per season. Although a formula is yet to be worked out the money
will be divided according to an equal share, facility fees depending on the
number of games shown on TV plus a merit payment based on your final league
position. Last season the Hammers earned £21,631,444 in an equal share,
£11,584,228 in facility fees and £9,888,664 in a merit payment for finishing
13th in UK rights plus another £26,295,817 for overseas rights and
£4,270,850 from commercial rights. The total of £73,671,003 for last season
will be completely blown away by the new TV rights deal and as long as we
can stay in the Premier League for the 2016/2017 in the Olympic Stadium we
could be in line for as much as £150m of TV rights money for that season,
maybe more!
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Landslide could affect fans travel to Hawthorns
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Following a landslide on the rail route between London and Birmingham,
Chiltern Railways are currently unable to run direct trains from Marylebone
to the West Midlands. Trains are running from London to Banbury, and from
Leamington Spa to the West Midlands. Between Banbury and Leamington Spa a
"step-straight-on" replacement bus operates. Chiltern Railways say they are
aware that this may affect some West Ham fans that are travelling to the
Hawthorns on the 14th February who have already purchased train tickets, and
can provide the following advice below:
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Gold: "Nothing's changed with Sam"
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
David Gold has told Tony Cottee there will be no contract talks with Sam
Allardyce until the end of the season! The former Hammers striker had used
this website to blast the two Davids for not getting a deal sorted out now
claiming the manager has done everything that could have been expected of
him. And he believes the end of season is thew wrong time anyway explaining
that it creates a climate of uncertainty throughout the club. But speaking
exclsuively to ClaretandHugh, the co chairman said: "It's the way we do our
business – it's the way things work with us and nothing will change.
"Whether we are top of the league or bottom we talk at the end of the
season. It's very simple and very straightforward and that's how it will be
again. "Sam Allardyce's west Ham future will be sorted out when the campaign
comes to an end – that's the top and bottom of it."
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Cottee blast for owners over Allardyce
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 10, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Tony Cottee has delivered an icy "what are you waiting for" blast at the two
Davids following Sam Allardyce's admission that there has been no contract
offer to him yet! Asked in his morning presser whether there had been any
discussions Allardyce said: "Not yet. There's still a way to go but we'll
talk when the time is right." And Cottee -talking exclusively to
ClaretandHugh admitted: "I don't get it – what are the owners waiting for?
They are playing Russian roulette with the club. "It's not what's right for
them, Karren Brady, Sam Allardyce or anyone else but what's best for West
Ham United. "I really don't know what else Sam and Neil McDonald have to do
to get a new deal. They have done everything required and this idea that the
owners only do business at the end of the season is wrong. "There are
pre-season tours to be organised and why would Sam be interested if he isn't
sure whether he will be here.
"The fact is he is standing there with a fantastic record and nobody has
made a move in his direction – I just don't get it because there are plenty
of clubs who will want Sam Allardyce . "He keeps teams in the division and
it's desperately important we stay up next season and the one after that as
our first in the new stadium. The owners need to get the deal done."
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Tuesday, February 10
Daily WHUFC News - 10th February 2015
Kouyate's pride in 'special' strike
WHUFC.com
It was a case of mixed emotions for goalscorer Cheikhou Kouyate on Sunday
evening
09.02.2015
Cheikhou Kouyate's delight at scoring a wonder goal against Manchester
United was tinged with disappointment after West Ham United surrendered two
points in the dying seconds on Sunday. Deployed at centre-half in the
absence of Winston Reid and James Collins, the 25-year-old was supreme at
the back and, somewhat surprisingly, devastating in the opposition box. When
a Mark Noble free-kick had ricocheted into his path, Kouyate, with his back
to goal, showed off his fancy footwork in abundance, twice juggling the ball
before volleying home on the swivel with a stunning third touch. His best
yet, revealed the West Ham No8, and a goal that owed plenty, apparently, to
Diafra Sakho's prophecy! "It's a beautiful goal because yesterday I spoke
with Diafra and he told me, 'tomorrow you're going to score' and I said,
'yes, tomorrow I'm going to score'," he told West Ham TV. "I had a bit of
luck and for me it's magnificent, fantastic but a shame that we weren't able
to win, because had we won on Sunday, it would have been even better."
His 49th minute strike was instinctive, Kouyate insists, even if it had
plenty of artistry about it. And the Senegal man was thrilled at the
prospect of taunting his many Manchester United supporting friends, who had
clearly envisaged an altogether different outcome.
He continued: "I had no choice. I was in the box, you have to shoot. I
controlled it, I turned and I hit it. That was the only thing I could do and
with a bit of luck it's finished up in the back of the net. "It's special
because I've got friends who are Manchester United fans who sent me messages
saying 'tomorrow, you're going to be in trouble'. I know that they watched
the game, that they'll have seen my goal. It's a shame that we've not won,
otherwise I'd have phoned them straight away. But that's how it goes and I'm
still pleased to have scored today against Manchester United."
Goal aside, Kouyate could hardly look beyond the frustration of passing up
two precious points and the opportunity to climb back into the top seven.
The athletic midfielder lamented West Ham's failure to kill off the contest
after the break and says they have learned the hard way. That said, he
believes the Hammers' progress is clear for all to see and feels they should
be proud of their exertions on Sunday. "I'd say it's a disappointment
because we had victory in our grasp and we've just lost two points at home.
It's frustrating, but we make do with it, that's football. We all know that
it's never over until the very end and we'll learn from it for the games to
come.
"We deserved the three points because we had the chances, in the second half
we had one or two, if we'd scored the second goal it would have been
finished. But we well know that it's always the way that you have to the
kill the match when you can. We didn't do it and now we've got to learn from
it. "We continue to progress and had we won we'd have reclaimed seventh
place, because seventh remains the aim. We've missed it, what's done is
done, and tonight we have to rediscover that fight until the end and be
proud of ourselves."
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Cresswell - 'We're still full of confidence'
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell says West Ham United will not let Manchester United's
last-gasp equaliser dent confidence
09.02.2015
Aaron Cresswell says West Ham United will not let Manchester United's
last-gasp equaliser dent their confidence. The Hammers were denied a
deserved victory over the Red Devils by Daley Blind's added-time volley - a
goal which cancelled out Man of the Match Cheikhou Kouyate's outstanding
49th-minute opener. West Ham return to action at third-place Southampton on
Wednesday evening, when Cresswell expects Sam Allardyce's side to produce
the same level of performance as they did on Sunday. "It feels like we've
lost the game when, in reality, we've got the draw," said the left-back, who
was at his usual consistent best against Louis Van Gaal's team. "We got one
point instead of three, but we're still full of confidence because we
deserved the three points over the 90 minutes, but it wasn't to be.
"We've been there before over the Christmas period when you play
Saturday/Tuesday or Saturday/Wednesday. We'll be full of confidence going to
Southampton on Wednesday and we're all looking forward to it. "Obviously
we've had a good first half to the season, you could say. We're well into
the second half to the season now and we're eighth in the league. "Coming up
against Manchester United we always knew it would be a tough game, but when
we're at home we fancy ourselves against anyone."
On Sunday, West Ham bounced back superbly following their indifferent
display at Liverpool the previous weekend - highlighted by an outstanding
individual goal from stand-in centre-back Kouyate. "We played Liverpool last
week and I don't think we were so good. In the first half we were OK but in
the second half we weren't good enough. Against Man United were we good for
the whole 90 minutes and you could all see that we fully deserved the three
points. "I don't think Cheik quite knew what he was doing! No, it was a
great finish from him. He has come in at centre-half, when he hasn't played
there all season, and he's done an excellent job and got Man of the Match."
Going into the final minutes, West Ham looked secure, despite heavy pressure
from the visitors. After Cresswell himself had blocked Wayne Rooney's fierce
free-kick, a hopeful cross into the box dropped to Blind, who steered his
volley into the bottom corner to break Hammers hearts. "I don't think we
switched off," he explained. "It was more that with ten minutes to go and we
were 1-0 up and they were always going to peg us back. They brought on
Marouane Fellaini, who is a big fella, and the ball fell to Blind on the
edge of the box and to be fair to the lad it was a great finish."
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Allardyce on... Manchester United
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was delighted with his team's performance, even if he was less
enthused by the result. Read what he had to say - and what he refused to say
- in his post-match press conference, which we bring to you exclusively in
full here on KUMB...
Sam: That probably felt more like a defeat than a draw. So close to a win -
did you feel you needed a second goal?
I do now! We had many opportunities today and it was a great shame that we
conceded a goal as late as we did. It wasn't the normal sort of goal you
concede against Man United really - it was pumped up the middle and our
player who headed it, so it wasn't from any great play at all.
It was just a great shame that we couldn't hold out. I feel Manchester
United had David De Gea to thank for keeping them in the game that long,
with the amount of saves that he had to make today. It was a fantastic
performance, but not the result we deserved or wanted.
But, we're back to a level that we know we can play at - which has been
difficult to get to over the Christmas and New Year period with injuries,
the African Nations Cup and so on and so forth. We still had our injuries
today but the 11 players plus Matt Jarvis, who was on for a while, did a
terrific job and produced a terrific performance. They really should be
satisfied and very proud with what they've done today.
Louis Van Gaal said it was his Plan B to get Fellaini on and play the ball
up to him. Are you surprised that [Manchester] United...
...What, played the long balls?
Yes.
Oh. [laughs]
Well you might just criticise Louis Van Gaal for playing the long ball as
much as you sometimes criticise me for being direct! In the end it's paid
off for him, so you can't knock it. It only paid off because Carl Jenkinson
didn't head the ball where he wanted to - if it had, perhaps we would have
won 1-0.
I hope we can keep that level of performance up, as I think they were
terrific here today. They showed great energy and quality to get a huge
amount of chances in Manchester United's final third and like I said, I
think they had David De Gea to thank more than Blind, the goalscorer - and
that shows how well we've played today.
At the end of the day that wasn't a bad finish for a centre back, was it?
No, not bad at all. We really restricted Manchester United's quality which
was pleasing for me. I think that was a big part of whether we'd get a
result today. I have to give the players credit for how well they've
defended as well as for how well they played in possession, which was for
us, almost the perfect performance.
What did you think when the goal went in?
I can't repeat it. [laughs]
That was Kouyate's first start for you at centre back. Have you seen him
play there before?
I think he filled in there early on in the season for 10 or 15 minutes but
he's played there for Anderlecht and Senegal. What we didn't know was could
he play with the tactical awareness and discipline you have to possess as a
central defender in the Premier League? Of course, he proved he could.
The icing on the cake for him was the quality of his goal. In such a tight
area, to flick it round and volley it in a small space was a terrific piece
of skill. At that time, it was nothing more than we had deserved.
With the quality you showed today, do you consider the Champions League as
an objective?
I think that would be very difficult for us. When you see the strength and
depth of Manchester United; they can bring Fellaini on when we've got a
couple of young kids on the bench. We get the maximum out of the depth of
our squad, but it's probably not quite big enough to take you into the
Champions League. But we'll keep trying!
How's it looking on the injury front? [James] Collins and [Andy] Carroll,
are they likely to play next week?
Andy had a fitness test today; I think it's only possibly he could make it
on Wednesday. Hopefully - not that I've heard anything today - but certainly
by tomorrow the only problem we've got is recovering these players for
Southampton. We can't really take any more injuries and keep that level of
performance - a fantastic performance today by everybody. We don't want any
more injuries than we've already got.
Can I ask a question about Ravel Morrison?
No.
Sakho and Valencia worked so well together and set the tone for the team,
closing their centre backs down and not letting them play?
Absolutely. The reason behind us doing so well today was that when we
weren't in possession, closing down as a team was key to upsetting
Manchester United. That stopped their service into Falcao, Van Persie,
Rooney and Di Maria - and I think that was a keynote of the game.
We forced Manchester United into more mistakes than you would normally see.
We got at their back four, stretched them and created opportunities to
score. Not only in open play, but we were also very dangerous off set plays
today.
Thank you very much.
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Tomkins: Fellaini broke my nose
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
James Tomkins has revealed he suffered a broken nose following a second half
challenge by Manchester United substitute Marouane Fellaini.
The tempestuous midfielder left West Ham's only fully fit centre half in
considerable pain after catching him on the hooter during today's 1-1 draw
at the Boleyn, which West Ham led until Daley Blind's stoppage-time
equaliser. Yet according to Tomkins, Fellaini's challenge was far less
spiteful than Robin Van Persie's first half elbow - an infringement that was
punished with nothing more than a free kick by referee Mark Clattenburg
despite being clearly visible from all areas of the ground.
Whilst he ended the game battered, bruised and just a little bit broken, the
25-year-old defender produced an excellent performance alongside stand-in
defender Cheik Kouyate. The pair marshalled Manchester United's expensive
front line superbly with Kouyate's goal being the cherry on the cake.
Tomkins, who was speaking to the Recorder's Dave Evans, added that he
expects to be fine to face Southampton at St Mary's on Wednesday night -
which is more than be said for fellow defenders Winston Reid and James
Collins, neither of whom are expected to recover from injury in time to
feature.
That means Kouyate is likely to partner the Basildon-born defender for a
second successive game, in what is bound to prove another tough test against
one of the division's front-runners.
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Stewart Downing admits disappointment at Manchester United draw
Last Updated: 09/02/15 12:47pm
SSN
Stewart Downing admits West Ham are disappointed at not collecting all three
points against Manchester United on Sunday. Danny Blind's stoppage-time
equaliser earned United a share of the spoils at Upton Park as West Ham
missed the chance to move ahead of Liverpool following their Merseyside
derby draw at Everton. "We needed the win to go back above Liverpool, but we
didn't lose the game and got a point, so we can go to Southampton and look
to win," Downing said. "We're frustrated because we thought we were the
better team. They played a lot more direct than I thought they would, but we
dealt with it and it's the only real chance they've had." Left-back Aaron
Cresswell praised midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate who was deployed in defence
against United and scored a superb volley to put the Hammers in front. "I
don't think he quite knew what he was doing," Cresswell joked. "It was a
great finish. He has come into centre-half and he did an excellent job and
deserved man of the match. "We are still full of confidence and we know we
deserved the full three points over the 90 minutes and it was not to be,"
Cresswell added. "We are full of confidence for Southampton on Wednesday and
we are looking forward to it."
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James Tomkins claims "malicious" Robin van Persie deliberately elbowed him
in Upton Park clash
11:54, 9 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The West Ham centre back had his nose broken by Marouane Fellaini later in
the game but felt the Dutchman's challenge was worse
The Mirror
West Ham defender James Tomkins has accused "malicious" Robin van Persie of
deliberately elbowing him. Tomkins, 25, had his nose broken by midfielder
Marouane Fellani in yesterday's side's 1-1 draw with Manchester United at
Upton Park. But while he believes that act was accidental, he has claimed
Van Persie's was intentional. Tomkins said: "The nose is a bit swollen.
Fellaini was the second time in the match when I broke it. He has always got
that about him when he goes up with his hands a lot." "It is tough to say
that he does it deliberately, but with the Van Persie one, I think he had a
look at me first and then he has gone for me. "I think that was more
malicious than the other one, even though I came out worse the second time."
The centre-back has also admitted to being astonished that the Holland
striker was not even cautioned after the incident by referee Mark
Clattenburg. He added: "I think it was definitely a yellow at least, but I
don't like to say that some should have got sent off. I am sure that there
are challenges that I might make in the future that could be yellow or
something else."
Tomkins was himself castigated earlier this season after an incident in
which he went down holding his face theatrically at Everton. He believes his
decision to get up quickly yesterday saved Van Persie from greater scrutiny.
He added: "Obviously when I went down before it didn't cover me in glory to
be honest, so I tried to get up more quickly, but he did catch me, he caught
me sweet around the jaw. "I was expecting a little bit of physical contact
from strikers, but when someone looks round and then comes for me it is a
bit more malicious."
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Lassana Diarra continues to train with Hammers
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
According to several reliable sources, free agent Lassana Diarra continues
to train with West Ham in hope of securing a permanent contract and to proof
his fitness levels. It is claimed Diarra has been training with Hammer's
head of medicine Stijn Vandenbroucke, whom he previously worked with at
Anzhi Makhachkala. The 29-year-old French man was previously played for
Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid has been linked with a move to Celtic or
QPR.
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Euro giants get Irons "hands off" warning
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have tonight knocked back stories that AC Milan have made a bid for
Cheikhou Kouyate. Kouyate, 25, eventually joined the Hammers from Anderlecht
in June at around £7 million fee and according to Calciomercato has been the
subject of an AC approach. But a Hammers source immediately knocked back the
storytelling ClaretandHugh: "That's news to us and Cheik is simply not to
sale – end of story.
The Hammers goalscorer against Manchester United – who was outstanding as an
emergency central defender – is another bargain buy by the club having been
scouted by Sam Allardyce to become the first major signing of last summer.
Kouyate's form has been monitored by AC but the player is very content with
life at the Irons and is locked down until 2018. Calciomercato has reported
the Hammers have been approached about a possible summer move but our source
said: " Cheik was desperate for the move to this club and there's no chance
of him leaving in the summer."
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Carlton Cole touched by home coming
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Carlton Cole seemed visibly touched by the response of Hammers fans
welcoming him back to the Boleyn ground on Sunday afternoon. The 31 year
old veteran striker showed his appreciation as he warmed up along the touch
lines close the West and Sir Trevor Brooking stands with 16 year old Reece
Oxford.
Hammers fans broke into spontaneous applause for the loyal Hammer after he
was denied his move at the last minute to West Bromwich Albion on transfer
deadline day. Fans also broke into several choruses of his Cole's Always
believe in your soul, Your indestructible, Always believe in, Carlton Cole
song.
On Friday Allardyce confirmed in his London Standard column "I really did
feel for the boy but it was a necessity based on what hadn't happened
earlier. David Sullivan and I had recognised he needed to go but
circumstances dictated otherwise. It has been reported that Carlton had a
rant at me on the phone and that was right. There's nothing wrong with that
— he was entitled to give us a b*****king. He'd just been offered a
long-term deal at West Brom while his contract with us is up this summer and
he doesn't know whether he will be given another one."
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Former Hammer joins Chicago Fire
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Hammer Alou Diarra has joined Chicago Fire on trial on Sunday, a
team spokesperson confirmed linking the free agent to a permanent move to
the MLS side. According to a report in Lequipe, Diarra also has interest
from Ligue 2 side Sochaux following trials at Brighton & Hove Albion and AS
Nancy. He has been without a club since leaving West Ham in July 2014 after
his contract was mutually terminated. Diarra joined West Ham United on a
three-year contract in August 2012, for a £2.5m fee on £40,000 per week.
Diarra was claimed to be earning £60,000 per week with his previous club
Marseille. Diarra is believed to have been paid off around £1.5m of his £2m
wages to leave West Ham early.
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Irons on Oxford loan chances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Reece Oxford will continue to be kept in cotton wool until the end of the
season at least! Despite media pressure suggesting the teenager could
receive his first team debut against Manchester United yesterday, there was
never a real hope of it happening. Manager Sam Allardyce kept him on the
bench to ensure he continues to taste the big match atmosphere but first
team action remains very much in the distance. And despite some speculation,
a source told us this morning that there is no chance even of Reece being
sent out on loan this season as is the preferred Sam Allardyce method of
development for his youngsters. Despite the 16 year old's huge reputation as
the best prospect the club has produced since the days of Rio Ferdinand, the
club are not ready to send him in that direction just yet.
A well placed source told ClaretandHugh: "Yes, he has tremendous talent, yes
he is a marvelous prospect but he was only 16 the other day. "To put him out
on loan in the emergency window is premature – he will be handled very
carefully because we believe he's going to the top of his profession with
the correct handling."
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WHUFC.com
It was a case of mixed emotions for goalscorer Cheikhou Kouyate on Sunday
evening
09.02.2015
Cheikhou Kouyate's delight at scoring a wonder goal against Manchester
United was tinged with disappointment after West Ham United surrendered two
points in the dying seconds on Sunday. Deployed at centre-half in the
absence of Winston Reid and James Collins, the 25-year-old was supreme at
the back and, somewhat surprisingly, devastating in the opposition box. When
a Mark Noble free-kick had ricocheted into his path, Kouyate, with his back
to goal, showed off his fancy footwork in abundance, twice juggling the ball
before volleying home on the swivel with a stunning third touch. His best
yet, revealed the West Ham No8, and a goal that owed plenty, apparently, to
Diafra Sakho's prophecy! "It's a beautiful goal because yesterday I spoke
with Diafra and he told me, 'tomorrow you're going to score' and I said,
'yes, tomorrow I'm going to score'," he told West Ham TV. "I had a bit of
luck and for me it's magnificent, fantastic but a shame that we weren't able
to win, because had we won on Sunday, it would have been even better."
His 49th minute strike was instinctive, Kouyate insists, even if it had
plenty of artistry about it. And the Senegal man was thrilled at the
prospect of taunting his many Manchester United supporting friends, who had
clearly envisaged an altogether different outcome.
He continued: "I had no choice. I was in the box, you have to shoot. I
controlled it, I turned and I hit it. That was the only thing I could do and
with a bit of luck it's finished up in the back of the net. "It's special
because I've got friends who are Manchester United fans who sent me messages
saying 'tomorrow, you're going to be in trouble'. I know that they watched
the game, that they'll have seen my goal. It's a shame that we've not won,
otherwise I'd have phoned them straight away. But that's how it goes and I'm
still pleased to have scored today against Manchester United."
Goal aside, Kouyate could hardly look beyond the frustration of passing up
two precious points and the opportunity to climb back into the top seven.
The athletic midfielder lamented West Ham's failure to kill off the contest
after the break and says they have learned the hard way. That said, he
believes the Hammers' progress is clear for all to see and feels they should
be proud of their exertions on Sunday. "I'd say it's a disappointment
because we had victory in our grasp and we've just lost two points at home.
It's frustrating, but we make do with it, that's football. We all know that
it's never over until the very end and we'll learn from it for the games to
come.
"We deserved the three points because we had the chances, in the second half
we had one or two, if we'd scored the second goal it would have been
finished. But we well know that it's always the way that you have to the
kill the match when you can. We didn't do it and now we've got to learn from
it. "We continue to progress and had we won we'd have reclaimed seventh
place, because seventh remains the aim. We've missed it, what's done is
done, and tonight we have to rediscover that fight until the end and be
proud of ourselves."
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Cresswell - 'We're still full of confidence'
WHUFC.com
Aaron Cresswell says West Ham United will not let Manchester United's
last-gasp equaliser dent confidence
09.02.2015
Aaron Cresswell says West Ham United will not let Manchester United's
last-gasp equaliser dent their confidence. The Hammers were denied a
deserved victory over the Red Devils by Daley Blind's added-time volley - a
goal which cancelled out Man of the Match Cheikhou Kouyate's outstanding
49th-minute opener. West Ham return to action at third-place Southampton on
Wednesday evening, when Cresswell expects Sam Allardyce's side to produce
the same level of performance as they did on Sunday. "It feels like we've
lost the game when, in reality, we've got the draw," said the left-back, who
was at his usual consistent best against Louis Van Gaal's team. "We got one
point instead of three, but we're still full of confidence because we
deserved the three points over the 90 minutes, but it wasn't to be.
"We've been there before over the Christmas period when you play
Saturday/Tuesday or Saturday/Wednesday. We'll be full of confidence going to
Southampton on Wednesday and we're all looking forward to it. "Obviously
we've had a good first half to the season, you could say. We're well into
the second half to the season now and we're eighth in the league. "Coming up
against Manchester United we always knew it would be a tough game, but when
we're at home we fancy ourselves against anyone."
On Sunday, West Ham bounced back superbly following their indifferent
display at Liverpool the previous weekend - highlighted by an outstanding
individual goal from stand-in centre-back Kouyate. "We played Liverpool last
week and I don't think we were so good. In the first half we were OK but in
the second half we weren't good enough. Against Man United were we good for
the whole 90 minutes and you could all see that we fully deserved the three
points. "I don't think Cheik quite knew what he was doing! No, it was a
great finish from him. He has come in at centre-half, when he hasn't played
there all season, and he's done an excellent job and got Man of the Match."
Going into the final minutes, West Ham looked secure, despite heavy pressure
from the visitors. After Cresswell himself had blocked Wayne Rooney's fierce
free-kick, a hopeful cross into the box dropped to Blind, who steered his
volley into the bottom corner to break Hammers hearts. "I don't think we
switched off," he explained. "It was more that with ten minutes to go and we
were 1-0 up and they were always going to peg us back. They brought on
Marouane Fellaini, who is a big fella, and the ball fell to Blind on the
edge of the box and to be fair to the lad it was a great finish."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Allardyce on... Manchester United
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
Sam Allardyce was delighted with his team's performance, even if he was less
enthused by the result. Read what he had to say - and what he refused to say
- in his post-match press conference, which we bring to you exclusively in
full here on KUMB...
Sam: That probably felt more like a defeat than a draw. So close to a win -
did you feel you needed a second goal?
I do now! We had many opportunities today and it was a great shame that we
conceded a goal as late as we did. It wasn't the normal sort of goal you
concede against Man United really - it was pumped up the middle and our
player who headed it, so it wasn't from any great play at all.
It was just a great shame that we couldn't hold out. I feel Manchester
United had David De Gea to thank for keeping them in the game that long,
with the amount of saves that he had to make today. It was a fantastic
performance, but not the result we deserved or wanted.
But, we're back to a level that we know we can play at - which has been
difficult to get to over the Christmas and New Year period with injuries,
the African Nations Cup and so on and so forth. We still had our injuries
today but the 11 players plus Matt Jarvis, who was on for a while, did a
terrific job and produced a terrific performance. They really should be
satisfied and very proud with what they've done today.
Louis Van Gaal said it was his Plan B to get Fellaini on and play the ball
up to him. Are you surprised that [Manchester] United...
...What, played the long balls?
Yes.
Oh. [laughs]
Well you might just criticise Louis Van Gaal for playing the long ball as
much as you sometimes criticise me for being direct! In the end it's paid
off for him, so you can't knock it. It only paid off because Carl Jenkinson
didn't head the ball where he wanted to - if it had, perhaps we would have
won 1-0.
I hope we can keep that level of performance up, as I think they were
terrific here today. They showed great energy and quality to get a huge
amount of chances in Manchester United's final third and like I said, I
think they had David De Gea to thank more than Blind, the goalscorer - and
that shows how well we've played today.
At the end of the day that wasn't a bad finish for a centre back, was it?
No, not bad at all. We really restricted Manchester United's quality which
was pleasing for me. I think that was a big part of whether we'd get a
result today. I have to give the players credit for how well they've
defended as well as for how well they played in possession, which was for
us, almost the perfect performance.
What did you think when the goal went in?
I can't repeat it. [laughs]
That was Kouyate's first start for you at centre back. Have you seen him
play there before?
I think he filled in there early on in the season for 10 or 15 minutes but
he's played there for Anderlecht and Senegal. What we didn't know was could
he play with the tactical awareness and discipline you have to possess as a
central defender in the Premier League? Of course, he proved he could.
The icing on the cake for him was the quality of his goal. In such a tight
area, to flick it round and volley it in a small space was a terrific piece
of skill. At that time, it was nothing more than we had deserved.
With the quality you showed today, do you consider the Champions League as
an objective?
I think that would be very difficult for us. When you see the strength and
depth of Manchester United; they can bring Fellaini on when we've got a
couple of young kids on the bench. We get the maximum out of the depth of
our squad, but it's probably not quite big enough to take you into the
Champions League. But we'll keep trying!
How's it looking on the injury front? [James] Collins and [Andy] Carroll,
are they likely to play next week?
Andy had a fitness test today; I think it's only possibly he could make it
on Wednesday. Hopefully - not that I've heard anything today - but certainly
by tomorrow the only problem we've got is recovering these players for
Southampton. We can't really take any more injuries and keep that level of
performance - a fantastic performance today by everybody. We don't want any
more injuries than we've already got.
Can I ask a question about Ravel Morrison?
No.
Sakho and Valencia worked so well together and set the tone for the team,
closing their centre backs down and not letting them play?
Absolutely. The reason behind us doing so well today was that when we
weren't in possession, closing down as a team was key to upsetting
Manchester United. That stopped their service into Falcao, Van Persie,
Rooney and Di Maria - and I think that was a keynote of the game.
We forced Manchester United into more mistakes than you would normally see.
We got at their back four, stretched them and created opportunities to
score. Not only in open play, but we were also very dangerous off set plays
today.
Thank you very much.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Tomkins: Fellaini broke my nose
KUMb.com
Filed: Monday, 9th February 2015
By: Staff Writer
James Tomkins has revealed he suffered a broken nose following a second half
challenge by Manchester United substitute Marouane Fellaini.
The tempestuous midfielder left West Ham's only fully fit centre half in
considerable pain after catching him on the hooter during today's 1-1 draw
at the Boleyn, which West Ham led until Daley Blind's stoppage-time
equaliser. Yet according to Tomkins, Fellaini's challenge was far less
spiteful than Robin Van Persie's first half elbow - an infringement that was
punished with nothing more than a free kick by referee Mark Clattenburg
despite being clearly visible from all areas of the ground.
Whilst he ended the game battered, bruised and just a little bit broken, the
25-year-old defender produced an excellent performance alongside stand-in
defender Cheik Kouyate. The pair marshalled Manchester United's expensive
front line superbly with Kouyate's goal being the cherry on the cake.
Tomkins, who was speaking to the Recorder's Dave Evans, added that he
expects to be fine to face Southampton at St Mary's on Wednesday night -
which is more than be said for fellow defenders Winston Reid and James
Collins, neither of whom are expected to recover from injury in time to
feature.
That means Kouyate is likely to partner the Basildon-born defender for a
second successive game, in what is bound to prove another tough test against
one of the division's front-runners.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Stewart Downing admits disappointment at Manchester United draw
Last Updated: 09/02/15 12:47pm
SSN
Stewart Downing admits West Ham are disappointed at not collecting all three
points against Manchester United on Sunday. Danny Blind's stoppage-time
equaliser earned United a share of the spoils at Upton Park as West Ham
missed the chance to move ahead of Liverpool following their Merseyside
derby draw at Everton. "We needed the win to go back above Liverpool, but we
didn't lose the game and got a point, so we can go to Southampton and look
to win," Downing said. "We're frustrated because we thought we were the
better team. They played a lot more direct than I thought they would, but we
dealt with it and it's the only real chance they've had." Left-back Aaron
Cresswell praised midfielder Cheikhou Kouyate who was deployed in defence
against United and scored a superb volley to put the Hammers in front. "I
don't think he quite knew what he was doing," Cresswell joked. "It was a
great finish. He has come into centre-half and he did an excellent job and
deserved man of the match. "We are still full of confidence and we know we
deserved the full three points over the 90 minutes and it was not to be,"
Cresswell added. "We are full of confidence for Southampton on Wednesday and
we are looking forward to it."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
James Tomkins claims "malicious" Robin van Persie deliberately elbowed him
in Upton Park clash
11:54, 9 February 2015 By Darren Lewis
The West Ham centre back had his nose broken by Marouane Fellaini later in
the game but felt the Dutchman's challenge was worse
The Mirror
West Ham defender James Tomkins has accused "malicious" Robin van Persie of
deliberately elbowing him. Tomkins, 25, had his nose broken by midfielder
Marouane Fellani in yesterday's side's 1-1 draw with Manchester United at
Upton Park. But while he believes that act was accidental, he has claimed
Van Persie's was intentional. Tomkins said: "The nose is a bit swollen.
Fellaini was the second time in the match when I broke it. He has always got
that about him when he goes up with his hands a lot." "It is tough to say
that he does it deliberately, but with the Van Persie one, I think he had a
look at me first and then he has gone for me. "I think that was more
malicious than the other one, even though I came out worse the second time."
The centre-back has also admitted to being astonished that the Holland
striker was not even cautioned after the incident by referee Mark
Clattenburg. He added: "I think it was definitely a yellow at least, but I
don't like to say that some should have got sent off. I am sure that there
are challenges that I might make in the future that could be yellow or
something else."
Tomkins was himself castigated earlier this season after an incident in
which he went down holding his face theatrically at Everton. He believes his
decision to get up quickly yesterday saved Van Persie from greater scrutiny.
He added: "Obviously when I went down before it didn't cover me in glory to
be honest, so I tried to get up more quickly, but he did catch me, he caught
me sweet around the jaw. "I was expecting a little bit of physical contact
from strikers, but when someone looks round and then comes for me it is a
bit more malicious."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lassana Diarra continues to train with Hammers
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
According to several reliable sources, free agent Lassana Diarra continues
to train with West Ham in hope of securing a permanent contract and to proof
his fitness levels. It is claimed Diarra has been training with Hammer's
head of medicine Stijn Vandenbroucke, whom he previously worked with at
Anzhi Makhachkala. The 29-year-old French man was previously played for
Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid has been linked with a move to Celtic or
QPR.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Euro giants get Irons "hands off" warning
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
West Ham have tonight knocked back stories that AC Milan have made a bid for
Cheikhou Kouyate. Kouyate, 25, eventually joined the Hammers from Anderlecht
in June at around £7 million fee and according to Calciomercato has been the
subject of an AC approach. But a Hammers source immediately knocked back the
storytelling ClaretandHugh: "That's news to us and Cheik is simply not to
sale – end of story.
The Hammers goalscorer against Manchester United – who was outstanding as an
emergency central defender – is another bargain buy by the club having been
scouted by Sam Allardyce to become the first major signing of last summer.
Kouyate's form has been monitored by AC but the player is very content with
life at the Irons and is locked down until 2018. Calciomercato has reported
the Hammers have been approached about a possible summer move but our source
said: " Cheik was desperate for the move to this club and there's no chance
of him leaving in the summer."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Carlton Cole touched by home coming
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Carlton Cole seemed visibly touched by the response of Hammers fans
welcoming him back to the Boleyn ground on Sunday afternoon. The 31 year
old veteran striker showed his appreciation as he warmed up along the touch
lines close the West and Sir Trevor Brooking stands with 16 year old Reece
Oxford.
Hammers fans broke into spontaneous applause for the loyal Hammer after he
was denied his move at the last minute to West Bromwich Albion on transfer
deadline day. Fans also broke into several choruses of his Cole's Always
believe in your soul, Your indestructible, Always believe in, Carlton Cole
song.
On Friday Allardyce confirmed in his London Standard column "I really did
feel for the boy but it was a necessity based on what hadn't happened
earlier. David Sullivan and I had recognised he needed to go but
circumstances dictated otherwise. It has been reported that Carlton had a
rant at me on the phone and that was right. There's nothing wrong with that
— he was entitled to give us a b*****king. He'd just been offered a
long-term deal at West Brom while his contract with us is up this summer and
he doesn't know whether he will be given another one."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Former Hammer joins Chicago Fire
Posted by Sean Whetstone on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret & Hugh
Former Hammer Alou Diarra has joined Chicago Fire on trial on Sunday, a
team spokesperson confirmed linking the free agent to a permanent move to
the MLS side. According to a report in Lequipe, Diarra also has interest
from Ligue 2 side Sochaux following trials at Brighton & Hove Albion and AS
Nancy. He has been without a club since leaving West Ham in July 2014 after
his contract was mutually terminated. Diarra joined West Ham United on a
three-year contract in August 2012, for a £2.5m fee on £40,000 per week.
Diarra was claimed to be earning £60,000 per week with his previous club
Marseille. Diarra is believed to have been paid off around £1.5m of his £2m
wages to leave West Ham early.
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Irons on Oxford loan chances
Posted by Hugh5outhon1895 on February 9, 2015 in Whispers
Claret &Hugh
Reece Oxford will continue to be kept in cotton wool until the end of the
season at least! Despite media pressure suggesting the teenager could
receive his first team debut against Manchester United yesterday, there was
never a real hope of it happening. Manager Sam Allardyce kept him on the
bench to ensure he continues to taste the big match atmosphere but first
team action remains very much in the distance. And despite some speculation,
a source told us this morning that there is no chance even of Reece being
sent out on loan this season as is the preferred Sam Allardyce method of
development for his youngsters. Despite the 16 year old's huge reputation as
the best prospect the club has produced since the days of Rio Ferdinand, the
club are not ready to send him in that direction just yet.
A well placed source told ClaretandHugh: "Yes, he has tremendous talent, yes
he is a marvelous prospect but he was only 16 the other day. "To put him out
on loan in the emergency window is premature – he will be handled very
carefully because we believe he's going to the top of his profession with
the correct handling."
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
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