Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 1st July 2008

Deadline nears for season tickets - WHUFC
Fans have until 7pm on Tuesday night to renew their season tickets with demand already high
30.06.2008

Supporters are reminded that the deadline for season ticket renewals is 7pm on Tuesday 1 July for online, counter and telephone sales.

Sales have already surpassed the number reached at this stage last summer and demand is also expected to be high throughout the final day. Any season tickets not renewed after the deadline will then be made available to those on the waiting list with information automatically being sent to them about how they can apply. As last year, season ticket sales will be capped at 26,000 for the 2008/09 season and the ticket office expects this number to be reached before the start of the Barclays Premier League campaign on 16 August.

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Collison eager to get started - WHUFC
With Euro 2008 drawing to a close, Jack Collison has spoken of his ambitions of playing at a major finals
30.06.2008

Jack Collison is looking to "really push on next season" with West Ham United and Wales and show he has what it takes to build a successful playing career.

After appearing twice for Alan Curbishley last season and also getting two full caps for Wales, the 19-year-old midfielder has been left wanting more. He said: "Those little sniffs have just made me even hungrier for next season. I am going to go back in pre-season and do my best and fight for my place. I want to get as close as I can to the team and start playing more regularly. That is the aim. I am just going to do everything I can between now and the start of the season to come back in shape."

The reserve-team captain has not had too much time off as he closed out the last campaign with a first taste of top-level international football. He played in a 2-0 friendly defeat by the Netherlands just before Euro 2008. That defeat saw Craig Bellamy also feature with a second-half run-out and Collison believes the duo will soon be complemented for club and country by James Collins and Danny Gabbidon as they look to return from knee and abdominal injuries respectively.

"It would be great to play at a World Cup," said Collison when asked about the prospect of getting to the South Africa finals in 2010. "Hopefully Ginge and Gabbs will be back, while Bellars looks like he is fully recovered now. I think he just needs games. It will be nice for all four of us to be involved and hopefully we can qualify for the World Cup. That is the aim. We feel we have got a decent enough squad to get there or thereabouts so we just need to see how the games go really."

Wales will have it all to do though as they have been drawn in European qualifying Group 4 - alongside Euro 2008 revelations Germany and Russia. The rest of the section is rounded out by Finland, Azerbaijan and Liechtenstein - all teams that Wales can feel confident against. John Toshack's men will get going on 6 September away to the Azeris in Baku before a trip to Russia four days later. It remains to be seen whether Collison will be involved or with the Under-21s for a match in Romania that could decide involvement in October's play-offs for the 2009 U21 Euros.

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World Cup moves into focus - WHUFC
Alan Curbishley's squad boasts many players who will look for club form to lead to international recognition
30.06.2008

The conclusion of Euro 2008 has focused minds on the 2010 World Cup qualifiers with many of the West Ham United squad dreaming of making it to South Africa.

Lucas Neill, Jonathan Spector and John Pantsil are all up and running already with Australia, Ghana and the United States each flying in their respective qualifying zones. Neill's Australia and Spector's US have made it through the first stages in Asia and North and Central America already while Pantsil's Ghana are top of their section in Africa. The club's European contingent will get under way from September with the UEFA qualifying campaign although Freddie Ljungberg will not be involved after the Sweden captain retired from international football.

England
Robert Green, Matthew Upson, Kieron Dyer, Scott Parker and Dean Ashton have all been capped before and will have ambitions of being part of Fabio Capello's set-up. Green, Upson and Ashton have caught the Italian coach's eye previously and may figure in the 20 August friendly against the Czech Republic. In qualifying Group 6, England have been drawn with Croatia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Andorra - getting started against the latter nation in Barcelona on 6 September before travelling to Euro 2008 rivals Croatia four days later. Under-21 regular Mark Noble will also feel he could play some part in the qualifying campaign.

France
Julien Faubert's stop-start first season at West Ham United hampered his Euro 2008 hopes but he will surely be aiming for the World Cup. The flying winger made his Les Bleus debut against Bosnia-Herzegovina two summers ago and scored the last-gasp winner in a 2-1 victory that was also memorable for him being the first to wear the No10 after Zinedine Zidane's retirement. Whether Faubert will prove his fitness in time for the friendly away to Sweden on 20 August remains to be seen but he will target the qualifying Group 7, alongside Serbia, Romania, Austria, Lithuania and the Faroe Islands. It all gets started in Austria on 6 September.

Wales
James Collins, Danny Gabbidon, Jack Collison and captain Craig Bellamy are all set to be instrumental to the principality's hopes of following up a strong Euro 2008 qualifying performance. Defensive duo Collins and Gabbidon are hopeful of joining Collison and Bellamy for the start of qualifying Group 4 at home to Azerbaijan on 6 September but the pool also boasts Germany, Russia, Finland and Liechtenstein. Wales will prepare with a friendly at home to Georgia on 20 August although Collison may find himself on Under-21 duty as the country are riding high in qualifying for the 2009 Euro with the reserve-team captain a key part of the squad.

Northern Ireland
George McCartney has been a fixture for Nigel Worthington since returning to international football last August. The left-back played every game for his club last season and will be eager to do so again next time for his country as well in qualifying Group 3. The country have been drawn with the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and San Marino. Their first match will be away to the Slovakians on 6 September although there is a friendly in Scotland on 20 August. With the finals two years away, the Northern Irish squad's fortunes will also interest highly-rated youth-team midfielder Daniel Kearns, who turns 17 on 26 August.

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United set to face Euro stars - WHUFC
Spain are the European champions and a trio of their number could soon be taking on West Ham United
29.06.2008

West Ham United may be welcoming three European champions to the Boleyn Ground on 9 August when Villarreal arrive for a prestigious pre-season friendly.

The Primera Division runners-up last season had a trio of players in action for Spain in their 1-0 victory against Germany in the European Championship final on Sunday night. Joan Capdevila, Marcos Senna and substitute Santi Cazorla all played their part in the Euro triumph, secured by Fernando Torres' superb solitary strike, and will no doubt be on a high when they return to club duties with Villarreal for the 2008/09 campaign. If selected to face Alan Curbishley's side, they will be up against a strong squad that may well be reinforced by some big-name returnees like Kieron Dyer and Craig Bellamy.

The Yellow Submarine, who will be in Champions League action next season, boast several other high-profile international names in their ranks - not least Turkey striker Nihat Kahveci, also a revelation in Switzerland and Austria but who will miss the trip to London through injury, and former Premier League performers Robert Pires and Jon Dahl Tomasson. Some new faces are also due including Brazilian international Edmilson and US prodigy Jozy Altidore

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And so it begins - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 1st July 2008
By: Staff Writer

The summer transfer window officially opens for business today.

Whilst a number of deals have already been struck none can be finalised until today as July 1st marks the opening of the Premier and Football League's transfer window. League clubs now have just under nine weeks in which to strengthen their squads for the forthcoming 2008/09 campaign.

Whilst close neighbours Tottenham have already been busy preparing for the new season, landing key targets such as Dos Santos and Modric, West Ham United are yet to announce any new signings - despite having been linked with literally scores of players since the end of the 2007/08 season. But despite cautionary words from the board in recent weeks, that looks set to change with strong rumours regarding at least one or two possible new arrivals.

With no new arrivals in the last transfer window (January) it is now 10 months since the Hammers signed a player (Nobby Solano and Henri Camara on 31st August 2007, both no longer with the club). But while a number of new players are likely to join the club, Alan Curbishley will be looking to offload even more in order to trim his burgeoning squad.

The transfer window closes on August 31st. You can catch up on all the latest Hammers transfer rumours here.

Alan Curbishley's signings

Craig Bellamy (Liverpool): £7.5m
Scott Parker (Newcastle): £7m
Julien Faubert (Bordeaux): £6.1m
Kieron Dyer (Newcastle): £6m
Matthew Upson (Birmingham): £6m
Luis Boa Morte (Fulham): £5m
Freddie Ljungberg (Arsenal): £3m
Calum Davenport (Tottenham): £3m
Nigel Quashie (WBA): £2m
Lucas Neill (Blackburn): £1m

Nobby Solano (Newcastle): Free Transfer
Richard Wright (Everton): Free Transfer

Henri Camara (Wigan): Loan
Kepa Blanco (Seville): Loan And so it begins

Filed: Tuesday, 1st July 2008

By: Staff Writer

The summer transfer window officially opens for business today.

Whilst a number of deals have already been struck none can be finalised until today as July 1st marks the opening of the Premier and Football League's transfer window. League clubs now have just under nine weeks in which to strengthen their squads for the forthcoming 2008/09 campaign.

Whilst close neighbours Tottenham have already been busy preparing for the new season, landing key targets such as Dos Santos and Modric, West Ham United are yet to announce any new signings - despite having been linked with literally scores of players since the end of the 2007/08 season. But despite cautionary words from the board in recent weeks, that looks set to change with strong rumours regarding at least one or two possible new arrivals.

With no new arrivals in the last transfer window (January) it is now 10 months since the Hammers signed a player (Nobby Solano and Henri Camara on 31st August 2007, both no longer with the club). But while a number of new players are likely to join the club, Alan Curbishley will be looking to offload even more in order to trim his burgeoning squad.

The transfer window closes on August 31st. You can catch up on all the latest Hammers transfer rumours here.

Alan Curbishley's signings

Craig Bellamy (Liverpool): £7.5m
Scott Parker (Newcastle): £7m
Julien Faubert (Bordeaux): £6.1m
Kieron Dyer (Newcastle): £6m
Matthew Upson (Birmingham): £6m
Luis Boa Morte (Fulham): £5m
Freddie Ljungberg (Arsenal): £3m
Calum Davenport (Tottenham): £3m
Nigel Quashie (WBA): £2m
Lucas Neill (Blackburn): £1m

Nobby Solano (Newcastle): Free Transfer
Richard Wright (Everton): Free Transfer

Henri Camara (Wigan): Loan
Kepa Blanco (Seville): Loan

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Ex-Scouser to lead select - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 30th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Former Liverpool star Steve Nicol has been selected to lead the MLS AllStars when they take on West Ham United in this summer's prestige friendly.
United face the best of America's Major League Soccer on Thursday, 24th July. Due to Nicol leading the current MLS coach ratings he has been selected to lead the side when the teams meet in Toronto. It is the second successive year in which Nicol - manager of New England - has been selected to lead the AllStars in their mid-season friendly. Last year he led the MLS to a 2-0 win over Scottish Champions Celtic, whilst he was also in charge when they met Real Madrid two years earlier in 2005. Nicol, one of MLS' most highly-rated young managers began his career with Ayr before moving to Liverpool. During his spell at Anfield he won four league titles plus a number of Cups and also represented Scotland at the World Cup Finals in 1986. West Ham's clash with the AllStars is the second of two games they will play on their tour of the USA. They kick off the North American tour with a clash against Columbus Crew on Sunday, 20th July, returning to England the following weekend.

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Season shape-up - SSN
We look at how sides are gearing up for the new campagn
Last updated: 1st July 2008

WEST HAM TRANSFER ACTIVITY
INS: None

OUTS: Nobby Solano (released)

Having claimed their fair share of transfer headlines last season, things have been eerily quiet at West Ham this year. In the latest part of our Shaping up for the Season series, Tony Curts looks at whether the Irons can keep hold of Anton Ferdinard or if they need to cash in to bolster their squad. Last season, you couldn't keep the Hammers out of the headlines. The long drawn-out transfers of Carlos Tevez, Marlon Harewood and Yossi Benayoun kept them in the spotlight, while the departure of the trio was offset by the arrivals of Craig Bellamy, Freddie Ljungberg, Scott Parker and Keiron Dyer.
This time around, though, West Ham have been largely subdued with their transfer activity. The credit crunch has not helped the club, particularly with Eggert Magnússon taking his money elsewhere. The new owners have charged director of football Gianluca Nani with scouring Europe for young talent in a bid to pick up a bargain or two, with highly-rated HK midfielder Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson apparently catching the eye. Manager Alan Curbishley, though, is determined to bring in a big-name striker to bolster a frontline that returned just 42 goals in 38 Premiership matches last season. Andy Johnson and Kevin Doyle are believed to be at the top of Curbishley's shopping list, while Eidur Gudjohnsen's desire to return to London could work in West Ham's favour.
However, to free up funds for a serious assault on the transfer market, Curbishley may have to part with one of his most prized assets - with Spurs and Aston Villa both linked to a £10m-plus move for Anton Ferdinand. Fellow defender Danny Gabbidon is also attracting interest from Stoke, while West Ham may decide to cash in on Ljungberg - with Roma keen to sign the Swede. The pressure is also on Curbishley to turn the club around - with former player and Croatia manager Slaven Bilic already being linked to a return to Upton Park.

Forwards, forwards and more forwards... The Hammers struggled to find the net last season, although injuries to Dean Ashton and Craig Bellamy did not help. Barcelona striker Gudjohnsen would be a welcome addition, especially if he can rediscover the scoring form that made him a hit across the capital at Chelsea. However, cash remains the key to Curbishley's hopes of adding the required firepower - and should the Hammers decide to cash in on Ferdinand and Gabbidon, then they may also decide to bolster their options at the back. Eyjolfsson seems most likely to sign on the dotted line at Upton Park having impressed during a week-long trial, while Nani's bargain-spotting skills will be tested. Reading's relegation from the top-flight means that Kevin Doyle - as well as James Harper - could be tempted to switch to Upton Park. Ferdinand, though, is likely to leave - with his behaviour off the field doing little to endear him to the West Ham faithful. Add in the fact that £10m would bolster the transfer kitty, then expect Ferdinand to be shown the exit. And should West Ham fail to get off to a good start, then a new manager by Christmas!

Fan's view - Rob Elliott

I think West Ham have an outside chance of Europe this season if - and it's a big if - they can keep their squad fit. Outside of the first 11, too many of the squad are not Premier League quality and we will suffer should too many go down with injuries. Tenth was respectable last year given the problems we had but we won't push on unless Alan Curbishley makes some signings. Our squad may be large but quantity gets you nowhere; we need depth in more or less every position.
We desperately need more choice up front. I'm so sick of negative one up front football - you need to be world class in the Premier League to do that job well and none of the current squad have the talent to manage it. If we have more strikers we might have two fit at the same time and can play 4-4-2!
In terms of who should be shown the door, time is up for Luis Boa Morte, Carlton Cole and Lucas Neill. If we are too improve we must make sure we keep our important players such as Matthew Upson, Rob Green and Dean Ashton. Don't sell the youth either - how many former Hammers have gone on to better things? We need to stop feeding the bigger clubs!

What do you think to the Hammers' pre-season transfer activity? Let us have your thoughts using the form below.

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Hammer to end career in Australia - Setanta
by Ben Blackmore, 30 June 2008

Lucas Neill's agent has confirmed the West Ham captain will finish his career back in Australia. Agent Paddy Dominguez has spoken of Neill's passion and determination for starting a new Sydney-based club to play in Australia's A League. Such news may well concern Alan Curbishley, who will be well aware that Neill has just one year left on his current contract. By then Neill will be 31, the right age to leave the 'lasting legacy' that Dominguez speaks of. "As far as Lucas is concerned, he has a huge emotional attachment to this. When he eventually quits Europe he'll come back here (to Australia) to play for the franchise," explained Dominguez. "As far as Lucas is concerned, he is determined to put something back into the game in this country. "Lucas has shown with his player scholarship scheme in the Manly district that he wants to make a significant contribution. He wants to leave a lasting legacy for Australian soccer. "I can tell you that some of the names we are dealing with at the moment will blow your mind. But the real aim of the club is to develop and foster local football. "Our charter is to have, within three or four years of our existence, a starting line-up made up of at least eight local players. That's the dream, that's the intention."

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West Ham Join Gudjohnsen Chase - Gaol.com

It was again reported yesterday that Portsmouth were eager to bring the Icelander back to the Premier League, but now it seems as though they have competition in the form of the Hammers. The Boleyn Ground outfit were said to have had an approach rebuffed for the ex-Chelsea man last season, but with new coach Josep 'Pep' Guardiola set to rebuild the forward line it is possible that they may allow him to leave for a relatively low fee. Being under contract until 2010, though, recouping some of their outlay is paramount for the Camp Nou men. Ergo the original offers from the two English clubs, said to be in the region of €6.3m, may prove insufficient. Should it not, however, then Eidur may be tempted by factors such as wages, or the likelihood of European football. The 29-year-old, who turns 30 on September 15, spent six years with Chelsea and two with Bolton Wanderers.

Steve Michaels, Goal.com

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No to Bresciano - Sheffield Star
By Jamie Furniss Monday, 30th June 2008

Sheffield United manager Kevin Blackwell has confirmed that Palermo midfielder Mark Bresciano will not become a Blade... The 28 year old has received a lot of interest from English clubs with rivals West Ham being one. Blackwell has told the Sheffield Star that "the figures quoted are way beyond us."

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Another Hammer off to Brum? - KUMB
Filed: Monday, 30th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Aston Villa have emerged as the latest front-runners to sign Anton Ferdinand. Alan Curbishley - a former Villa player - is thought to be willing to part company with the errant centre-half, who has been at the club since joining as a schoolboy. The Villains are rumoured to be prepared to pay up to £10 million for the former England under-21 defender, who upset Hammers chiefs by lying in order to take a trip abroad last year. He also fell foul of his employers by becoming involved in a high-profile court case (from which he was found not guilty) which followed a fracas outside Faces nightclub. Whilst opinion over Ferdinand amongst the club's fans is split, it seems clear that he remains very highly-rated outside of West Ham United and its followers.
A move to Villa would give him the opportunity to team up once again with former Hammers Marlon Harewood and Nigel Reo-Coker, both of whom played alongside Ferdinand in the 2006 Play Off Final and the 2007 FA Cup Final.

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New boys in Hammer link - KUMB
Filed: Sunday, 29th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Premier League new-boys Stoke City have been linked with a move for United's Danny Gabbidon. The Welsh centre-half, who was signed by Alan Pardew for £2 million two years ago has failed to appear for the Hammers since last December due to an ongoing groin problem. Rumours of a falling-out with manager Alan Curbishley have led to speculation that he is a likely candidate to leave the club this summer.
Elsewhere, Alan Curbishley has been linked with a move for Reading striker Kevin Doyle. The weekend press claimed that the Hammers were prepared to pay up to £7.5 million (surely a misprint) for the Irish international.

* Former Hammer Gavin Williams has moved from Ipswich Town Bristol City for an undisclosed fee. Williams has signed a two-year deal with the Championship outfit.

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HAMMERS TALK: Gabs going to Pot? - Guardian Series

WEST HAM defender Danny Gabbidon could be heading out of Upton Park with Stoke City a likely destination. The newly-promoted Potters are looking for proven talent to help their bid for Premier League survival next season and the 28-year-old centre-back fits the bill. Stoke manager Tony Pulis is ready to offer £2 m for the Welshman and believes that the chance of regular first-team football may be enough to convince Gabbidon to leave the capital. There has been much speculation surrounding defenders at the Boleyn Ground with Anton Ferdinand also being touted as another possible departure. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley looks set to cash in on either one or both of the players. The closing stages of last season saw new talent being given a chance, including centre-back and England youth international James Tomkins. The signs do not look good for Gabbidon who has made only 57 starts for West Ham since his move to the club in July 2005. He has recently been troubled by a persistent groin injury and a switch to the Brittania Stadium could come as a welcome opportunity to reignite his career.

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Portsmouth, West Ham battle for Barcelona's Gudjohnsen
tribalfooball.com - June 30, 2008

Portsmouth and West Ham United are battling for Barcelona striker Eidur Gudjohnsen. DiarioSport says both Premiership clubs are willing to pay £5 million for the Iceland international.

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West Ham's Collison wants more action
tribalfootball.com - June 30, 2008

After making his Premiership debut last season, West Ham midfielder Jack Collison is determined for more action this term.

He told whufc.com: "Those little sniffs have just made me even hungrier for next season. I am going to go back in pre-season and do my best and fight for my place. I want to get as close as I can to the team and start playing more regularly. That is the aim. I am just going to do everything I can between now and the start of the season to come back in shape."

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Villa to offer £10M for West Ham's Ferdinand
tribalfootball.com - June 30, 2008

Aston Villa are closing in on a £10 million deal for West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand. The Sunday Mirror says the 23-year-old has emerged as a prime target for Villa manager Martin O'Neill, who is looking to reinforce his defence following the departure of Olof Mellberg to Juventus. O'Neill wants a player of proven experience and Ferdinand fits the bill.

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West Ham United plan £5million La Liga swoop - FansFC.com
06:25 July, 1, 2008

West Ham United Football Club are keen on Eidur Gudjohnsen. The former Bolton Wanderers and Chelsea forward has had an indifferent time in Spain following his move to Barcelona, and is expected to leave the Camp Nou this summer. Alan Curbishley is looking to bolster his squad in an attempt to turn the Hammers into a top-six side, and he will make an offer of £5million for the Icelandic international. The Upton Park chief believes the former Stamford Bridge hero, who won the Premier League with the Blues, could form a superb strike pairing with Dean Ashton.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 30th June 2008

Nicol to challenge Curbishley - WHUFC
Steve Nicol will be the coach of the MLS All-Stars against West Ham United
on Thursday 24 July
29.06.2008

Alan Curbishley will pit his wits against Steve Nicol in the Major League
Soccer All-Star Game after the former Liverpool midfielder was handed
coaching duties for the prestigious fixture.

Nicol won the right to lead the MLS representative side against Curbishley's
West Ham United at Toronto's BMO Field on Thursday 24 July because his New
England Revolution were the league's most dominant side in the first half of
the season. As head coach of the MLS All-Star team, Nicol will select five
players and his coaching and training staff. If players selected for the
All-Star First XI, likely to include David Beckham, are unavailable due to
international duty, injury or other commitments, Nicol may decide on
replacements.

The 46-year-old Scot previously led the MLS All-Stars to a 2-0 victory
against Celtic last summer and has been in charge of the New England
Revolution since November 2002. During an illustrious playing career in
England, he played 467 times for Liverpool and scored 46 goals. He won four
league titles, three FA Cup winners' medals and the 1984 European Cup. He
was also capped 27 times by his country and appeared at the 1986 World Cup.

The MLS All-Star First XI will be announced on 10 July. The First XI are
determined by online fan balloting comprising 25 per cent of the total vote,
with MLS coaches and general managers (25 per cent), media (25 per cent) and
players (25 per cent) accounting for the remainder. On 15 July, Nicol and
his staff will select five All-Stars who will join two league commissioner's
selections to complete the MLS 18-man squad.

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United set to face Euro stars - WHUFC
Spain are the European champions and a trio of their number could soon be
taking on West Ham United
29.06.2008

West Ham United may be welcoming three European champions to the Boleyn
Ground on 9 August when Villarreal arrive for a prestigious pre-season
friendly.

The Primera Division runners-up last season had a trio of players in action
for Spain in their 1-0 victory against Germany in the European Championship
final on Sunday night. Joan Capdevila, Marcos Senna and substitute Santi
Cazorla all played their part in the Euro triumph, secured by Fernando
Torres' superb solitary strike, and will no doubt be on a high when they
return to club duties with Villarreal for the 2008/09 campaign. If selected
to face Alan Curbishley's side, they will be up against a strong squad that
may well be reinforced by some big-name returnees like Kieron Dyer and Craig
Bellamy.

The Yellow Submarine, who will be in Champions League action next season,
boast several other high-profile international names in their ranks - not
least Turkey striker Nihat Kahveci, also a revelation in Switzerland and
Austria, and former Premier League performers Robert Pires and Jon Dahl
Tomasson. Some new faces are also due including Brazilian international
Edmilson and US prodigy Jozy Altidore. For ticket information click here and
to read more about the game, which will be the only home fixture before the
big Barclays Premier League kick-off against Wigan Athletic on 16 August,
click here.

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Ljungberg ends Sweden service - WHUFC
Freddie Ljungberg has brought his illustrious international career to a
close after ten years
27.06.2008

Freddie Ljungberg has retired from international football to concentrate on
his playing commitments with West Ham United.

The Sweden captain revealed the news on Friday, citing the physical demands
of combining his national-team career with his club duties. In a message
aimed at Sweden fans, he thanked them for their support but said it was time
for someone else to wear the No9 shirt. "I will carry on playing soccer at
the highest level in the Premier League for several more years and I love
this sport more than anything," he said. "I have come to the decision to
concentrate on playing for my club West Ham United, and that is where my
focus will be in the future."

After making his debut in January 1998, Ljungberg won 75 caps for his
country, scoring 14 goals, and played at five major finals for his country -
including the 2008 European Championship this month. Although the
Scandinavian nation was eliminated after the group stage, Ljungberg was
widely regarded as being the team's most influential player in his attacking
role on the left-hand side of midfield.

The 31-year-old midfielder moved to the Boleyn Ground last summer after
spending nine years at Arsenal where he won league and FA Cup winners'
medals and appeared in the 2006 Champions League final. He has made 28
league and cup appearances, scoring two goals, for West Ham United.
Ljungberg's final game for Sweden was the 2-0 defeat by Russia on 18 June.

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Ljungberg to quit internationals - BBC

Sweden captain Freddie Ljungberg has quit international football to focus on
playing for his club side West Ham. "The physical strain of playing for the
national team and in club football for such a long time has finally taken
its toll," said the midfielder. "I have loved every match, especially the
outstanding support that you the fans have always given us players."
Ljungberg, 31, was handed the captain's armband for Euro 2008 but an ageing
Sweden went out at the group stage. After recording only one win in Group D
- over 2004 champions Greece - it was predicted that a number of Sweden's
older players would call time on their international career and Ljungberg is
the first to make that move official. "I will carry on playing football at
the highest level in the Premier League for several more years and I love
this sport more than anything," added Ljungberg, who made his announcement
in a letter released via the website of Swedish newspaper Helsingborg
Dagbladet. Vittsjo-born Ljungberg earned 75 caps and scored 14 goals for his
country. He joined West Ham prior to the start of last season after spending
nine trophy-laden years at London rivals Arsenal but has suffered a number
of injuries recently, including a cracked rib in April. He has three years
left on his contract with West Ham.

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Collins eyes shock Wales recall - BBC

James Collins is targeting Wales's World Cup qualifiers in September to make
a return after a shock recovery from serious knee ligament damage. West Ham
defender Collins, 24, suffered the injury in January and was told he'd be
out for a year. He said: "I hoped to come back for the start of the Wales
campaign. The way I'm going it looks do-able so as long as I keep
progressing. I feel strong. "I don't see a reason why I can't have a chance
of playing in those games." He added: "If someone had told me when I did it
I'd be back playing again at the start of September I'd have taken it."
Collins hopes to get back into action with the Hammers reserves, the team he
was playing for against Portsmouth when he suffered the injury as he
recovered from a groin problem. "I may play a few reserve games in the
middle to the end of August and then be available for full first team games,
probably at the start of September."
Wales manager John Toshack has spoken of Collins as a potential captain and
will welcome the news as they prepare for the qualifying campaign.
Azerbaijan visit the Millennium Stadium on 6 September and Wales travel to
Russia four days later.

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Hammers get the Örn - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 28th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

West Ham are set to confirm the signing of highly-rated teenager Hólmar Örn
Eyjólfsson, according to reports. The Hammers were first linked with a move
for the young centre-half back in February, and reports then suggested that
United had agreed terms with the player. But despite Eyjólfsson confirming
that he had received a proposal from the Hammers, there was no further news
on a deal - until this morning, when Icelandic website mbl.is announced that
the two parties had finally agreed terms. West Ham are set to confirm the
signing early next week. Eyjólfsson made his debut for HK in the Icelandic
Premiership aged just 16, and is already a regular for his nation's under
21s although he also featured for the under 17s and under 19s last season.
In addition to featuring regularly at international level he was named in
UEFA's team of the tournament at last year's under 17s Championship where he
was deployed in a defensive midfield role, a position he is equally
comfortable in. Eyjólfsson - who initially spent a week on trial with United
back in February - will become United's first signing of the summer.

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JC's miracle - KUMB
Filed: Saturday, 28th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

James Collins could be set to return to action as early as September -
despite suffering cruciate knee ligament damage in January. The 24-year-old
centre-half - nicknamed the Ginger Pele - tore ligaments during the 1-0
reserve team win against Portsmouth.on January 23rd after falling awkwardly
in the centre circle. Now, just seven months later, has targetted Wales'
World Cup qualifiers in September as a return date. "I hoped to come back
for the start of the Wales campaign," he said last night. "The way I'm going
it looks do-able so as long as I keep progressing I don't see a reason why I
can't have a chance of playing in those games. "If someone had told me when
I did it I'd be back playing again at the start of September I'd have taken
it. I may play a few reserve games in the middle to the end of August and
then be available for full first team games, probably at the start of
September."
News of Collins' brisk recovery is further good news for Alan Curbishley,
who is relishing the opportunity of working with a full squad of fit players
for the first time since taking the managerial reigns.

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£63 to watch West Ham - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 27th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

West Ham United supporters wishing to watch the Irons take on the cream of
the Premier League from the best seats in the house next season will be
charged a whopping £63 to do so. The club yesterday released details of the
2008/09 match ticket prices and those wishing to watch Category A games in
Band 1 seats will be charged an incredible £63 - a figure that equates to
£1260 over the course of the season*.
However it isn't just the best seats that will cost you a small fortune -
the cheapest seats (Band 4) will still be sold at £45 each (or £900 per
season*) for Category A matches. This year there will be just two price
categories - A and B. Category B prices - which will allow you to see
fixtures against the likes of Stoke, Hull and Middlesbrough - start at £35
(£700 per season**) for Band 4 seats and rise to £51 (£1020 per season**)
for Band 1 seats.

Seats for a family of four could therefore cost up to £195*** per game for
non-season ticket holders; a figure that will once again price many ordinary
families out of attending live matches.

Details of all 2008/09 ticket prices can be seen here.

* Based on 18 league games, one FA Cup tie and one Carling Cup tie against
Cat A opposition.

** Based on 18 league games, one FA Cup tie and one Carling Cup tie against
Cat B opposition.

*** Based on two adult Category A, Band 1 seats and two junior Category A,
Band seats.

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Bow in bouyant mood - KUMB
Filed: Friday, 27th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Lee Bowyer is looking forward to the start of the 2008/09 season having
hopefully put his injury woes behind him. The former Charlton and Leeds
midfielder - now 31 - has manged just 42 appearances for United since Alan
Pardew signed him on a free transfer from Newcastle in the summer of 2006
(22 appearances in 06/07 and just 20 last season). But with his niggling
groin problems now hopefully behind him, Bowyer is hoping that he will be
just one of a number of players that missed much of last season to push on
this term. "It is exciting because there are so many good players coming
back," he told whufc.com. "If everyone can stay fit we will have a very
strong squad. "Kieron only played three games last season; Scotty Parker
[had] a stop-start campaign and towards the end you were only really getting
to see just what he can do. Bellars also only played a handful of games but
in those he showed his pace and ability." Poplar-born Bowyer is one of a
number of players whose future is thought to be under threat with Alan
Curbishley under instruction to reduce the size of his burgeoning squad. His
current contract has one more year to run.

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New twist in Blades' Tevez saga - Sheffield Star
Published Date: 27 June 2008
By James Shield

THE Carlos Tevez Affair took a new twist today when it emerged that the
Football Association will not force Sheffield United and West Ham to reveal
the outcome of their latest arbitration before domestic competition resumes
in August. The two clubs are locked in a bitter dispute over the Argentine
striker's role during the 2006-07 Premiership campaign. Officials at Soho
Square have told The Star that, despite reports to the contrary, they have
played no part in the latest hearing which retired to consider its verdict
earlier this month. Despite failing in a previous bid to overturn the FAPL's
initial decision not to impose a points deduction on West Ham for breaching
transfer regulations when they signed Tevez , United are pressing ahead with
their bid for compensation.
Tevez's goal at Manchester United, the team he later joined, on the final
day of the season helped condemn the Bramall Lane club to relegation. "This
is a private arbitration between two parties at which the FA has no
involvement," an FA spokesperson told The Star. "It would be up to the
parties to decide as and when they wanted to announce any outcome."

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Aston Villa in £10million swoop for West Ham's Anton Ferdinand - The Mirror
Exclusive by Steve Stammers 29/06/2008

Aston Villa are closing in on a £10million move for West Ham's Anton
Ferdinand. The 23-year-old has emerged as a prime target for Villa manager
Martin O'Neill, who is looking to reinforce his defence following the
departure of Olof Mellberg to Juventus. O'Neill wants a player of proven
experience and Ferdinand fits the bill. Villa have also enquired about
Getafe's 29-year-old defender Cata Diaz. He was one of the stars in La Liga
last season and has been checked by Barcelona and Tottenham. But because of
his age none of the clubs chasing him is prepared to meet Getafe's £6m
price. Despite being born in Argentina Diaz has a Spanish passport, which
would allow him to play in the Premier League without any work permit
requirements. Diaz said: "I'd love the chance to play in England but I am
under contract at Getafe until June 2012 so my future is in their hands."
Ferdinand - brother of England and Manchester United star Rio - has been
plagued by injuries over recent seasons and West Ham are now ready to cash
in to provide manager Alan Curbishley with money to strengthen his squad.
The defender could be one of several players to leave Upton Park this
summer.
Also on his way could be former Arsenal man Freddie Ljungberg, who is paid a
reported £80,000 a week. He could be joined by the likes of Bobby Zamora. To
replenish their strike force, West Ham are ready to make a £7.5m bid for
Reading's Kevin Doyle, who was the subject of regular checks by Curbishley's
scouting team last season. Reading could also cash in on midfielder James
Harper, a target for Middlesbrough and Fulham. West Ham will hold showdown
talks with club captain Lucas Neill over his future. Neill joined in January
2007 but his deal runs out next summer and the West Ham board will be
reluctant to let him leave on a free transfer. The Australian was handed the
captain's armband last season. Midfielder Kieron Dyer is hoping Neill will
stay. He said: "He is by far the best captain I have ever had. As a player
if you have got a problem, he will sort it out. He is a great man."

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Fredrik Ljungberg leaves national team
Published: 28 Jun 08 11:11 CET
Online: http://www.thelocal.se/12708/

Sweden's national team captain Fredrik Ljungberg has announced his
retirement from international football. In an emotional letter to fans
published on Friday, the 31-year-old former Arsenal midfielder said it was
becoming physically too difficult to play for both West Ham and the national
team. Ljungberg played his first match for his country back in 1998. His
final game for Sweden was the 2-0 loss to Russia which marked Sweden's exit
from Euro 2008.
"I have decided to concentrate on my football with West Ham. This is where
my priority now lies," Ljungberg said. He competed in three European
championships and two World Cups with the Swedes, before being named captain
after the 2006 World Cup. "The moment has come to let some other player take
the number 9 jersey. Sweden has a lot of talented players and I am sure my
place will be taken by someone who has the same passion for sport as me," he
added. "I have played in the Swedish midfield for almost 11 years. I can
honestly say that I have loved every match, especially the boundless support
that you, the fans, have always given us, the players..."
Ljungberg played 75 games for Sweden scoring 14 goals.

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Nani sends West Ham crocks to Milan
tribalfooball.com - June 29, 2008

West Ham are flying their crocked players to Italy. The People says the
Upton Park club's technical director Gianluca Nani has insisted on the new
measure, which is unpopular as players must spend time away. Italian Nani,
who took over his new role this month, is so impressed by medics at a
private clinic based at AC Milan's training ground he insists any injured
Hammers player must go during their rehab. West Ham's Welsh international
defender Danny Gabbidon was there last week for treatment on a groin injury.
Chair man Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson ordered a review of medical facilities
after a spate of long-term injuries at the club.

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Ex-West Ham star Berkovic enters coaching
tribalfooball.com - June 29, 2008

Former West Ham and Southampton midfielder Eyal Berkovic is moving into
coaching. Berkovic, 36, is set to become manager of Israel's Under-17s side.

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Stoke to move for West Ham's Gabbidon
By Ian Ferris - June 29, 2008

Stoke City boss Tony Pulis is ready to test West Ham's resolve to keep
centre-half Danny Gabbidon at Upton Park by making a £2million bid. The
Potters boss is desperate to sign an experienced defender to play at the
heart of his defence and has already been linked with out-of-favour
Tottenham centre-back Anthony Gardner. Gabbidon, 28, joined the Hammers in
July 2005 but has only made 57 Premier League starts during his time at the
club and has been troubled by a niggling groin strain over recent months.

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West Ham want talks with skipper Neill
tribalfooball.com - June 29, 2008

West Ham are seeking talks with skipper Lucas Neill. The News of the World
says the Australian international has settled in quickly to his new
surroundings in London and was handed the captain's armband by Alan
Curbishley at the start of last season. Neill came under fire when he
rejected the chance to sign for Liverpool and opted for a lucrative move to
Upton Park last year. The former Blackburn defender is reported to be
earning £60,000 a week and there has been speculation that the club are
looking to reduce their wage bill. But Neill's agent Paddy Dominguez
recently dismissed reports that he would leave West Ham during the summer
and is happy to remain at Upton Park. Dominguez said: "It doesn't make sense
that a manager who brought Lucas to the club and has installed him as
captain would look to sell him. "It would be very strange. Lucas'
relationship with Alan is good and he is relishing the role of captain."

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West Ham move for Grasshoppers striker Bobadilla
tribalfooball.com - June 27, 2008

Grasshoppers Zurich striker Raul Bobadilla is a target for West Ham United.
The Mirror says Argentinian Bobadilla, 21, scored 18 goals last season for
Grasshoppers Zurich and the striker is the sort of player new football chief
Gianluca Nani is under orders to sign. He would cost £3million.

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West Ham continue Palermo talks over Cavani
tribalfooball.com - June 27, 2008

West Ham United have maintained talks with Palermo over young Uruguayan
striker Edinson Cavani. The Times says the Hammers have asked about taking
Cavani on loan. The 21-year-old Uruguay player scored five goals in 33
league matches last season.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 27th June 2008

Transatlantic tour excites duo - WHUFC
Dean Ashton and Lucas Neill are relishing the prospect of the summer pre-season trip to the US and Canada
26.06.2008

West Ham United will take on the Major League Soccer All-Stars a month today and the entire squad is looking forward to the experience.

On Thursday 24 July, Alan Curbishley's men will be up against the cream of talent from the leading league in the United States and Canada in Toronto. Fans in North America are voting for the players they would like to see represent the MLS from the 14 top-flight clubs. The match, to be played at BMO Field, will be the fifth time the MLS All-Stars have taken on an overseas club and they have won all four of the previous encounters against CD Guadalajara, Celtic, Fulham and Chelsea.

England striker Dean Ashton, likely to come up against international team-mate David Beckham, is particularly relishing the prospect of a tour that will also include a fixture against top MLS side Columbus Crew in Ohio on Sunday 20 July. "It will be fantastic," he said. "That is what it is about these days. All the big clubs are going away now and playing these games against different kinds of opposition. We are no different and it will be great to go out there and play a high-profile game."

Club captain Lucas Neill sees the trip as crucial to highlighting the club's stature and standing around the world. "The tour to America and Canada is very exciting, especially Canada as I myself have never been there," he said. "It is a great to be able to promote and advertise West Ham in different corners of the world and I am sure a lot of our fans will relish the chance to come and support the team out there. The All-Star game is especially exciting, it is a very high profile occasion against the best players from the MLS so we are very privileged to be playing in it."

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Villarreal to grace Boleyn - WHUFC
Villarreal will be the opponents for West Ham United's home pre-season fixture on Saturday 9 August
26.06.2008

West Ham United are pleased to confirm the club will be taking on Villarreal in the traditional curtain-raiser to the new season on Saturday 9 August at the Boleyn Ground.

The Spanish league runners-up were one of Europe's leading clubs last season and will provide a strong test for Alan Curbishley's side ahead of the new Barclays Premier League campaign. Villarreal finished ten points clear of Barcelona and just behind Real Madrid in 2007/08 and boast several top internationals. Among them are the Spain trio of Joan Capdevila, Marcos Senna and Santi Cazorla and Turkey striker Nihat Kahveci - all of whom have impressed at Euro 2008. Freddie Ljungberg will know all about the Spanish players after the summer finals.

Coached by the highly-rated Manuel Pellegrini, the Chilean who took the club to the 2005/06 Champions League semi-finals, Villarreal are expected to be leading contenders at home and in Europe's premier club competition in the new season. Other famous names include former France midfielder Robert Pires and Denmark striker Jon Dahl Tomasson, both of whom have English league experience. Then there are the exciting new arrivals including versatile World Cup winner Edmilson and the US prospect Jozy Altidore.

The prestige pre-season opener at the Boleyn Ground has attracted a host of leading clubs in recent years including PSV Eindhoven (2-1, 2003), Anderlecht (4-4, Anderlecht win 5-4 on penalties, 2004), Osasuna (1-1, 2005) and Olympiakos (1-1, 2006). Last season, goals from George McCartney and Dean Ashton helped account for Italian giants AS Roma in a 2-1 home victory. Ticket information will follow via whufc.com as soon as available.

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Paul the other one - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 26th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Former Hammer Paul Ince says he is looking forward to bringing his new Blackburn side to Upton Park when the clubs meet in October. East Londoner Ince, 40, was named as the successor to Manchester City-bound Mark Hughes earlier this week following an impressive start to his managerial career with Macclesfield and MK Dons. And the boo-boys' favourite, who still follows the Hammers, says he can't wait to stand in the Boleyn technical dugout as manager for the first time. "I looked at the fixtures and noticed straight away that West Ham was the third game," he said last night. "The trip to Upton Park was the one that stood out to me for some reason. I can't think why! "Not long ago I was thinking about games against Darlington and Rochdale, no disrespect to them. "Now here I am looking at when we are going to be playing against Manchester United and Chelsea - and West Ham, of course."
Ince fell foul of Hammers fans back in 1989 when he was pictured on the back page of a tabloid wearing a Manchester United shirt despite still being employed by West Ham. A few weeks later he moved to Old Trafford. The former England midfielder has since apologised for the incident, claiming that he was mislead by his agent at the time. However this has not prevented some elements of the Boleyn faithful booing him almost 20 years on.

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The Real thing - KUMB
Filed: Thursday, 26th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Villareal have confirmed that they will face West Ham United in a pre-season friendly at the Boleyn Ground on Saturday, 9th August. The La Liga runners-up will travel to East London for the final first team fixture of pre-season a week ahead of the Premier League season opener against Wigan. The Yellows feature a whole host of well-known players including former Arsenal players Pascal Cygan and Robert Pires, ex-Manchester United and Newcastle Utd striker Giuseppe Rossi plus former Liverpool defender Josemi. Other players to watch out for include veteran Danish hitman Jon Dahl Tomasson and Turkish midfielder/striker Nihat Kahveci, who played a major part in Turkey's journey to the Euro 2008 semi-finals before succumbing to injury following the quarter-final win over Croatia. West Ham United are yet to officially confirm the news but an announcement is expected shortly.

* The club have confirmed that West Ham will play one further pre-season friendly this season.

A United XI will visit Tilbury's Chadfields ground on Monday, 11th August 2008.

Pre-season programme: First Team

Thursday, 17th July: Hampton & Richmond Borough (a) - 7.30pm
Sunday, 20th July: Columbus Crew (a) - 5.00pm
Thursday, 24th July: MLS All-Stars (a) - 7.00pm
Tuesday, 29th July: Peterborough United (a) - 7.45pm
Friday, 1st August: Southampton (a) - 7.45pm
Monday, 4th August: Ipswich Town (a) - 7.45pm
Saturday, 9th August: Villareal (h) - 3.00pm

Pre-season programme: Reserves/Youths

Saturday, 19th July: Billericay Town (a) - 3.00pm
Saturday, 26th July: Thurrock (a) - 3pm
Wednesday, 30th July: Cambridge United (a) - 7.45pm
Saturday, 2nd August: Grays Athletic (a) - 3.00pm
Tuesday, 5th August: Bishop's Stortford (a) - 7.30pm
Monday, 11th August: Tilbury (a) - 7.45pm

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Little urges Shorey to head south - TeamTalk

Glen Little has urged Reading full-back and West Ham target Nicky Shorey to follow him to Portsmouth from the Madejski Stadium. Winger Little joined Pompey last Friday after turning down a new deal at Reading, where last season he made just two appearances - as a substitute - due to Achilles trouble which required surgery. Now Harry Redknapp has his eye on Little's team-mate Shorey. The England left-back, who has made clear his desire to stay in the Premier League, has only a year of his contract to run at relegated Reading - and is also on the Hammers' summer shopping list. Redknapp is believed to be considering a £3million bid and Little said: "Nicky is my best mate so of course I am going to say good things about him. But I would love to see him sign for Portsmouth as well." Little told the Portsmouth News: "Reading have already got the hump with me for leaving. So I am not going to try to upset people by saying he should go and sign for so and so. "But at the end of the day I want what's best for him and he should follow me down here. Portsmouth would be getting a very good player." Redknapp has already stated: "I like Nicky Shorey. He's a good footballer who can give us something different down the left."

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Gianluca Nani to Raid Brescia for West Ham and starts with Lithuanian Marius Stankevicius - Cmon Yu Irons
26 Jun
Posted by Joe J

Gianluca Nani is ready to start raiding his former club Brescia to strengthen West Ham's defence. His first target is Lithuanian international Marius Stankevicius. Marius Stankevicius a 6′ 3″ Defender is 26 years old and has made over 100 appearances for the Italian club Brescia and has 25 caps for his National club Lithuania. Nani has been very impressed with the defender and says Stankevicius has great energy and stamina and would be ideal for West Ham. Gianluca Nani is ready to raid more clubs in Europe for players that will enrich West Ham's future as a top premiership club.

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Lawrie Madden meets John Moncur
By Lawrie Madden 26-06-08

John Moncur was a stylish midfielder who started off his career at Spurs. Although Moncur played in the Premiership with Swindon, it is his home town club West Ham where he is most fondly remembered. Givemefootball's Lawrie Madden caught up with him for a chat about 'the good old days' and to find out what he's doing now....

Q. You started off at Spurs. Happy days?

A.. I loved it. I was playing with people like Glenn Hoddle who all the young players looked up to because he was so talented. Then a young Gazza was coming through alongside people like Micky Hazard and Vinny Samways so there was some top players around at the time.

Q. You followed Hoddle to Swindon?

A. It was not a hard decision. Glenn came in for me. He knew somehow what made me tick. Maybe it was because he was a midfield player and knew what they wanted but he was good for me and he came in for me at a time when Gazza was breaking in at Spurs.

Q, What was it like at Swindon, especially reaching the premier league?

A. We had a good side and we got promotion. Then Glenn left and John Gorman took over. We had a struggle and it took a long time to get our first win on the board. I remember one Monday going past a pub and said to John Gorman about bringing the lads in for a drink. He did. One drink led to another. Anyway on the Wednesday we went out and won our first game. John said that we couldn't do that again because he'd get the sack. It was good for team spirit, though.

Q. Then a dream move to West Ham?

A. Glenn came in for me again when he was at Chelsea but there were one or two things happening and West Ham also showed interest. I supported them as a lad and came from the area so it was not really much of a decision to make.

Q. But your move wasn't smooth though, was it?

A. Billy Bonds bought me but he left the club without me having played for him. Harry Redknapp took over and the club was ideal for him. He was like me, a local lad and he went about changing the culture of the club. Harry told you where you stood and he brought some professionalism to the club.

Q. What is it about Harry that's made him a success wherever he's gone?

A. Harry has a knack of getting players to play for him. They would be out on their ears at other clubs but he would bring them in and get the best out of them. Paolo di Canio was a classic case in point.

Q. What are your best memories of the Premiership?

A. Well, I always thought that I was good enough to play in the Premiership against the top players. One memory was a game against Bradford. Shaka Hislop went off after ten minutes with a broken leg and was replaced in goal by Stephen Bywater. We were losing 4-2 and Paolo walked off the pitch after he had been denied a penalty for a third time. Harry forced him back on and we ended up winning 5-4. Incredible game.

Q. What are you up to these days?

A. I run a football academy in Debden in Essex. Myself and three others, all West ham fans, are directors. We have small and large pitches for five-a-side as well as 11-a-side. We have expanded and now have a boxing gym. We also have a couple of tennis courts and recently we have put in an outdoor ice rink. We have been going about a year now. I also coach a couple of teams in the evening. So far it is getting busier each month as we keep adding to it.

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HAMMERS TALK: West Ham linked with Lithuanian defender - Guardian Series

WEST Ham technical director Gianluca Nani is set to raid his former club Brescia for Lithuanian international Marius Stankevicius, writes Trevor Vidler. The 26-year-old defender, who can also play in midfield, has made over 100 appearances for the Italian side. Nani is particularly impressed by the players energy, which he feels will be a vital asset in the Premier League. The Hammers new technical director has been given the task of helping manager Alan Curbishley unearth some of the best talent Europe has to offer. It seems 6ft 3in Stankevicius, capped 25 times by Lithuania, could be Nani's first major signing for the club

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Blackburn's Ince relishing return to Upton Park cauldron - Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 11:21 AM on 26th June 2008

When sifting through the fixture list, new Blackburn boss Paul Ince did not highlight the trips to former employers Manchester United or Liverpool - but his old stomping ground of Upton Park. Blackburn make the trip to east London on August 30, but Rovers' new Guv'nor has been warned that he will not receive a warm welcome from Hammers fans. While Ince made his name at Upton Park, his move to Manchester United 19 years ago remains an open wound for some of the Hammers faithful. Ince told the Sun: 'I looked at the fixtures and noticed straight away that West Ham away was the third game in.
'The trip to Upton Park was the one that stood out to me for some reason, I can't think why! 'But we've got Everton and Hull before then and it will be an exciting time for me at the start of the season. 'Not long ago I was looking at the fixtures and thinking about Darlington and Rochdale - no disrespect to them. 'Now here I am looking at when we are going to be playing against Manchester United and Chelsea - and West Ham, of course.'Famed for his short fuse, Ince is candid enough to admit that he still loses his temper - but that he has calmed considerably since his playing days. He said: 'I'll lose my rag if I have to but I am a bit more mellow these days than I was as a player.'
But Ince may find that the Upton Park faithful have changed little - and may have long memories of how he was snapped in a Manchester United shirt, before leaving West Ham. Gordon Thrower - co-editor of the Knees Up Mother Brown fans website - told the Sun: 'Ince says he's looking forward to it but I think a lot of West Ham fans will be looking forward to letting him know he's not been forgotten. 'There's no doubt there will be booing when he comes back - a lot of West Ham fans have long memories. 'Ince behaved very unprofessionally during his last couple of months and a lot of people were unhappy about it. 'There's some who want to move on and forget about it but they'll stay quiet so the booing is what you will hear. 'It's quite exposed in the technical area at Upton Park and I think every time he stands up he'll get stick. 'But to be honest I don't think it will worry him one bit, in a strange way he might even relish it a bit. 'It won't be the first time he's been jeered by Hammers fans and I'm pretty sure it won't be the last either.'

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Hammers still monitoring Italian market - Setanta
by Adam Marshall, 26 June 2008

West Ham continue to be linked with players plying their trade in Serie A with Gianluca Nani's influence at Upton Park likely to be felt this summer. The technical director's talent-spotting skills are set to boost Alan Curbishley's transfer policy during the close season with a number of names already thrown into the mix. Brescia's Marius Stankevicius has been mentioned in English press reports although Sampdoria appear to be favourites to sign the Lithuanian.
Nani worked at Brescia and the 26-year-old defender will be well known to him but Samp are primed to beat off competition to land the €4 million (£3.17 million)-rated star. Meanwhile, Palermo striker Edison Cavani continues to be forwarded as a possible target for the East Londoners. The Uruguayan is believed to be available in a loan deal but, again, there is plenty of interest from elsewhere in his talents. Porto are rumoured to have joined Bologna and Lazio in the chase for his signature.

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Bruce ready to smash Wigan's transfer record for Johnson - Daily Mail
By Sportsmail Reporter
Last updated at 10:25 AM on 26th June 2008

Wigan manager Steve Bruce is ready to smash the club's transfer record with a £8million bid for Everton striker Andy Johnson. Bruce will try to outbid rivals Middlesbrough, West Ham, Manchester City and Aston Villa for the England forward, according to the Daily Mirror. The Latics tried to lure Johnson to the JJB Stadium when he quit Crystal Palace two seasons ago but he decided on a move to Everton. Johnson played under Bruce at Birmingham City but the former Blues boss let him leave to go for Palace in a swap for Clinton Morrison. Bruce will attempt to sway Johnson with a £50,000-a-week to quit Goodison Park.

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West Ham target Brescia's Stankevicius
tribalfooball.com - June 26, 2008

Marius Stankevicius is interesting West Ham United. The Times says Gianluca Nani, the West Ham United technical director, could return to Brescia, his former side, to try to sign Stankevicius. Nani likes the Lithuania player for his energy and because he can play in defence or midfield.

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West Ham rival Liverpool for Fulham keeper Niemi
tribalfootball.com - June 26, 2008

West Ham United are ready to rival Liverpool for Fulham goalkeeper Antti Niemi. Niemi, who can leave Fulham for around £350,000, is set for talks with Liverpool next week when he returns from holiday but West Ham are also interested, says the Mirror.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 26th June 2008

Pre-season games update - WHUFC
Another away match in early August has been added to the club's busy summer
friendly programme
25.06.2008

The 2008/09 pre-season campaign will now end with a West Ham United XI in
action against Tilbury on Monday 11 August.

The fixture at the Essex club's Chadfields ground will come two days after
the traditional high-profile curtain-raiser for the first team at the Boleyn
Ground, which has yet to be finalised. Another highlight of the summer
programme will be the North American tour between 18-25 July when the club
will play Major League Soccer side Columbus Crew in Ohio, USA on Sunday 20
July before travelling across the Canadian border to face the MLS All-Stars
in Toronto on Thursday 24 July. The new season begins on 16 August at home
to Wigan Athletic.

Ticket information for all games as and when available is in the ticket
office section.

2008/09 pre-season schedule

Thursday 17 July, 7.30pm - Hampton & Richmond Borough v West Ham United

Saturday 19 July, 3pm - Billericay Town v West Ham United XI

Sunday 20 July, 5pm - Columbus Crew v West Ham United (Columbus, USA)

Thursday 24 July, 7pm - MLS All-Stars v West Ham United (Toronto, Canada)

Saturday 26 July, 3pm - Thurrock v West Ham United XI

Tuesday 29 July, 7.45pm - Peterborough United v West Ham United

Wednesday 30 July, 7.45pm - Cambridge United v West Ham United XI

Friday 1 August, 7.45pm - Southampton v West Ham United

Saturday 2 August, 3pm - Grays Athletic v West Ham United XI

Monday 4 August, 7.45pm - Ipswich Town v West Ham United

Tuesday 5 August, 7.30pm - Bishop's Stortford v West Ham United XI

Saturday 9 August, 3pm - West Ham United v TBC

Monday 11 August, 7.45pm - Tilbury v West Ham United XI

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Gudjohnsen - talks held? - KUMB
Filed: Wednesday, 25th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Reports tonight suggest that West Ham United have held talks with
representatives of Barcelona with regard to a deal for striker Eidur
Gudjohnsen.
KUMB understands that a party from the Spanish giants - led by
vice-president Marc Ingla - met Hammers chiefs last week to discuss a fee
for the 29-year-old Icelandic international, who joined Barca two years ago
this summer. Should the Hammers land their man it will end a 12-month
pursuit of the former Chelsea player, who was first linked with a move to
United during last summer's transfer window. Gudjohnsen - who is known to
have visited London last week - is thought to be keen on a return to the
Premier League, where he spent eight years with Bolton and Chelsea.
Barcelona are willing to sell a player they landed for around £6 million for
a similar fee. As always, we'll bring you more news on this as it happens.

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Ince eager for Hammers trip - SSN
New Blackburn boss relishing Upton Park return
Last updated: 26th June 2008

New Blackburn manager Paul Ince is relishing the return to former club West
Ham in his third Premier League game at the helm. The former Upton Park
midfielder is guaranteed a hostile reception in the East End of London with
fans still bitter over the manner of his departure for Manchester United in
1989.
But Ince, who is in his first top-flight job after two seasons in League Two
with Macclesfield and MK Dons, cannot wait. Ex-England international Ince,
the first black British manager in the history of the Premier League, was
confirmed as Mark Hughes' successor at the weekend. He said: "I looked at
the fixtures and noticed straight away that West Ham was the third game.
"The trip to Upton Park was the one that stood out to me for some reason. I
can't think why! "But we've got Everton and Hull to play before then it will
be an exciting time for me. "Not long ago I was thinking about games against
Darlington and Rochdale, no disrespect to them. "Now here I am looking at
when we are going to be playing against Manchester United and Chelsea - and
West Ham, of course."

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Pantsil plans Hammers stay - SSN
Ghana ace claims interest from other clubs
Last updated: 25th June 2008

West Ham defender John Pantsil says he plans to stay at Upton Park despite
attracting interest from other clubs. The Ghana international struggled to
hold down a regular place in the Hammers starting XI last season, but
impressed after getting a run in the side at the back end of the campaign.
The 27-year-old claims other clubs have expressed an interest in signing
him, but Pantsil says he is happy at West Ham. "Some clubs have made
attempts to lure me," Pantsil told ModernGhana. "But what I can say for now
is that I am happy at West Ham United and I am prepared to stay on. "My
manager Alan Curbishley is highly impressed with my output so far and is not
prepared to let me go - therefore I will stay at the club."

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Ipswich make Wright move - SSN
Magilton hopes to bring shot-stopper back to Portman Road
By James Dall Last updated: 25th June 2008

Ipswich Town manager Jim Magilton has revealed the club have made an
approach to West Ham United for goalkeeper Richard Wright. Wright began his
career at Portman Road before signing for Arsenal in 2001 for a fee of
£6million. The switch proved an unsuccessful move for Wright after he only
made 12 Premier League starts for The Gunners. The 30-year-old then
transferred to Everton before agreeing a switch to his current side West Ham
in 2007.
Wright has struggled for regular first-team football at Upton Park and was
sent out on loan to Southampton during the latter stages of last season.
Magilton, though, is keen to bring the shot-stopper back to Ipswich in a bid
resurrect the former England international's career. He told the Evening
Star: "Richard is a very good goalkeeper and I feel he would be at his best
playing for Ipswich Town. "There is no secret that I wanted him 12 months
ago, but it did not happen possibly because something was lost in
translation. "You will have to ask him if he made the right decision to move
to West Ham, who were of course in the Premier League. "An approach has been
made but it is early days and if it does not happen then we have other irons
in the fire."

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A Marked man? - KUMB
Filed: Wednesday, 25th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Mark Bresciano has told the Australian media that he hopes to be playing in
the Premier League next season. The Australian winger currently plys his
trade with Palermo in Serie A and was part of the team that knocked West Ham
out of the UEFA Cup two seasons ago. However after playing little more than
a bit part role this season under new manager Francesco Guidolin, the
27-year-old has indicated that he feels it is time to move on. In an
interview with Australia's Channel 10 last night Bresciano reiterated his
desire to move to the Premier League - and mentioned West Ham as a possible
destination.
However the club remain insistant that they will not be spending big mony
this summer - and with the Melbourne-born midfielder likely to command a fee
in the region of £5 million, that would surely put him out of the picture.
A set-piece specialist, Bresciano plays mostly on the left side of midfield
but can also play as a forward and in central or right midfield roles.

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Keeper farmed out? - KUMB
Filed: Wednesday, 25th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Ipswich Town have enquired about the possibility of signing Hammers reserve
keeper Richard Wright on a permanent basis. The 30-year-old former England
goalkeeper joined the Hammers on a free transfer last summer as cover for
number one Robert Green. But having barely featured for the first team in
the 2007/08 season the Ipswich-born stopper is looking to move on in order
to secure regular first team football. His most likely destination had
appeared to be Southampton, where Wright spent three months on loan at the
end of last season helping the Saints to avoid relegation to League One.
However Ipswich boss Jim Magilton has made a late bid to scupper that
possible move. Speaking earlier today, he said: "Richard is a very good
goalkeeper and I feel he would be at his best playing for Ipswich Town.
"There is no secret that I wanted him 12 months ago, but it did not happen
possibly because something was lost in translation. "You will have to ask
him if he made the right decision to move to West Ham, who were of course in
the Premier League. "An approach has been made but it is early days and if
it does not happen then we have other irons in the fire."

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HAMMERS TALK: West Ham could be targets first choice - Guardian Series

EVERTON frontman Andy Johnson has reportedly said that he would only
consider a move to West Ham if he is shown the door at Goodison Park, writes
Trevor Vidler. It is thought that the Toffees are ready to listen to offers
for the Bedford born forward, who is attracting interest from a number of
Premier League clubs, including the Hammers. Johnson, an £8.6m signing from
Palace two seasons ago, apparently told reporters at a recent visit by Mike
Tyson in Birmingham that West Ham were the only club he would consider
joining should Everton wish to sell him. It is no secret that Hammers boss
Alan Curbishley is an admirer of the 27-year-old striker, who has been
capped eight times by England.

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HAMMERS TALK: Boro look set to sign Hammers target - Guardian Series (
Phew! - PeterR )

WEST Ham target James Harper is reportedly the subject of £3.5million bid by
Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate, writes Trevor Vidler. The 'Boro'
manager hopes his move for the Reading midfielder will stave off competition
from other Premier League clubs, including the Hammers. Harper was one of
the Royals best players last season in their unsuccessful battle to beat the
drop. He played in every one of their 38 league games, scoring six goals.
The former Arsenal man has recently admitted his disappointment at dropping
out of the Premier League but did pledge to stay loyal to Reading for next
season if they chose to keep him.

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Dyer hails 'best ever captain' Neill - Setanta
by Chris Stanton, 25 June 2008

Kieron Dyer has given his backing to Lucas Neill after a season in which the
West Ham captain came in for heavy criticism. Neill's form last season was
disappointing and, with The Hammers often failing to sate their home fans,
the captain became a scapegoat. However Dyer, who like Neill is hoping for a
much better season next time around following his return from injury has
described his skipper as 'the best captain I have ever had.' "As a player,
if you have got a problem, he will sort it out," said Dyer. "He is a great
man. "He thought the players were low [after the 4-1 defeat at Manchester
United in May] and suggested a get together to build team spirit up. That's
the kind of man he is." Meanwhile, John Paintsil, the understudy to Neill at
right back, has reiterated his commitment to the club despite claiming to
have received offers from elsewhere. "Some clubs have made attempts to lure
me, but what I can say for now is that I am happy at West Ham United and I
am prepared to stay on," he told ModernGhana. "My manager Alan Curbishley is
highly impressed with my output so far and is not prepared to let me go -
therefore I will stay at the club."

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Ipswich want to re-sign West Ham keeper Richard Wright - The Mirror
By Mirror.co.uk 26/06/2008

Ipswich manager Jim Magilton wants to bring back keeper Richard Wright from
West Ham. "Richard is a very good goalkeeper and I feel he would be at his
best playing for Ipswich Town," said Magilton, a former Portman Road
team-mate. "An approach has been made but it is early days."

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Ince Can't Wait For Upton Lark - The Sun
By MARTIN BLACKBURN

PAUL INCE admits his first trip back to West Ham as a boss is the game of
the season for him. Blackburn's new Guv'nor picked out the August 30 trip to
Upton Park on August 30 ahead of Premier League giants Manchester United and
Liverpool.- his other two old clubs. But the new Rovers chief has been
warned to expect another white hot reception from Hammers fans with long
memories. Ince made his name at the Hammers but the manner of his move to
Old Trafford 19 years ago still rankles with some West Ham fans. So it could
be a long 90 minutes for the Guv'nor stood in the technical area in front of
the Main Stand at the Boleyn Ground. He said: "I looked at the fixtures and
noticed straight away that West Ham away was the third game in. "The trip to
Upton Park was the one that stood out to me for some reason, I can't think
why! "But we've got Everton and Hull before then and it will be an exciting
time for me at the start of the season. "Not long ago I was looking at the
fixtures and thinking about Darlington and Rochdale - no disrespect to them.
"Now here I am looking at when we are going to be playing against Manchester
United and Chelsea - and West Ham, of course."
Ince admits he can still fly off the handle but claims he has calmed down
considerably since his playing days came to an end. He said: "I'll lose my
rag if I have to but I am a bit more mellow these days than I was as a
player." But he may not find the Hammers fans have changed much and still
remember how he was pictured in a United shirt before the deal was done.
Gordon Thrower - co-editor of the Knees Up Mother Brown fans website - said:
"Ince says he's looking forward to it but I think a lot of West Ham fans
will be looking forward to letting him know he's not been forgotten.
"There's no doubt there will be booing when he comes back - a lot of West
Ham fans have long memories. "Ince behaved very unprofessionally during his
last couple of months and a lot of people were unhappy about it. "There's
some who want to move on and forget about it but they'll stay quiet so the
booing is what you will hear. "It's quite exposed in the technical area at
Upton Park and I think every time he stands up he'll get stick. "But to be
honest I don't think it will worry him one bit, in a strange way he might
even relish it a bit. "It won't be the first time he's been jeered by
Hammers fans and I'm pretty sure it won't be the last either."

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Villareal will be friendly opponents - Newham Recorder
25 June 2008

SPANISH side Villareal are set to be be West Ham's opponents when they
complete their pre-season friendly programme at Upton Park on May 9. The La
Liga outfit finished runners-up behind Re-al Madrid last season to qualify
for the Champions League, so they should provide tough opposition. They
include Robert Pires in their ranks as well as Spanish Euro 2008 stars Joan
Capdevila and Santi Cazorla.

* WEST HAM duo Freddie Sears and James Tomkins have both been selected in
England under-19s squad for next month's European Championships. Sears
grabbed two goals and Tomkins helped England to three clean sheets in the
final qualifying group back in May, and now they face hosts Czech Republic,
Italy and Greece in their group matches. The tournament is on between July
14 and 26. Spain, Germany, Hungary and Bulgaria are in the other group at
the finals.

* WEST HAM defender John Pantsil played the full 90 minutes as Ghana stayed
top of their World Cup qualifying group with a 2-0 win over Gabon on Sunday.

* THE HAMMERS Boxing Day clash with Portsmouth at Fratton Park has been
moved to a 1pm kick off.

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Ljungberg is assured that he is staying at West Ham - Newham Recorder
25 June 2008

SWEDISH international Freddie Ljungberg will be at Upton Park next season
according to his agent. The 31-year-old winger, who has 75 caps to his name
after Sweden's disappointing showing at Euro 2008, had been linked with a
move to Serie A side Roma, but that was disputed this week. His agent Claes
Elefalk met with West Ham officials recently in what proved to be a fruitful
meeting. "I met with [chief executive] Scott Duxbury and the new technical
director Gianluca Nani and they explained Fredrik is very important for the
future," he said. "He is one of their most important players so they don't
want to lose him."
Ljungberg signed from Arsenal in a £3million deal last summer, but it was
the hefty salary that the Swede is being paid that has prompted speculation
that the club may try to remove him from the wage bill. However, the once
injury prone player chalked up a useful 28 appearances last season, and when
he did manage a run of consecutive games, he looked to be finding some of
his best form for many a year. His ability to play on both the right and
left wing is also valuable and manager Alan Curbishley sees him as an
important and vitally experienced player for the coming campaign.

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Ince set for hot welcome - Newham Recorder
25 June 2008

THERE are few things you can depend on these days, writes DAVE EVANS. Taxes
is one obviously. High petrol prices, the UK flopping in the Eurovision Song
Contest and West Ham never winning at Liverpool all spring to mind. But one
thing that is more predictable than a Zimbabwean Presidential election, is
the fact that Hammers' fans will boo Paul Ince when he brings Blackburn to
Upton Park on August 30. Despite the fact it has been nearly 20 years since
the talented midfielder left West Ham for Manchester United, the animosity
towards the 40-year-old shows no sign of diminishing. West Ham fans seem to
have a list of hated ex-players longer than just about every other team
around, a situation that is a puzzling one. Frank Lampard has never been
forgiven for leaving Upton Park for Chelsea and criticising the club as soon
as he had left, while Jermain Defoe made the huge mistake of asking for a
transfer 48 hours after West Ham had been relegated. Former manager Glenn
Roeder was also on the end of a vicious onslaught from a small section of
fans when he returned to Upton Park with his Newcastle United team the
season before last, and all Roeder had done to the club was got them
relegated - something that even the great John Lyall managed to do. It is
unclear what sort of reception Alan Pardew would get if his Charlton side
come to Upton Park, but his captain during his time at the Hammers - Nigel
Reo-Coker - certainly felt the wrath of fans when he arrived for the final
game of last season. Ince though, seems to be the orginal 'Judas', a label
that has stuck over the years and will no doubt be brought out again when
the Ilford-born star returns as the first black manager of a Premier League
team. It was a long time ago, so perhaps many supporters are unclear as to
the nature of the England international's falling out with the West Ham
faithful. It all stems from the fact that Ince was photographed in a
Manchester United shirt while he was still a West Ham United player, and a
full three months before he finally moved to Old Trafford. The player
defended himself in an interview 10 years after that fateful event. "My
agent Ambrose Mendy suggested that as I was going to Malta, I should have my
picture taken in a Man U top, just in case a deal was completed while I was
on holiday," he explained. "I didn't really want to have my photo taken, but
I went along with it and I was assured that the picture would remain in the
photo library of the Daily Star and that if I decided to stay at West Ham,
it would be torn up." He continued: "Some geezer at the Daily Express - I
didn't realise they were in the same building - heard that my move to
Manchester United was about to go through. He went into the shared photo
library and stumbled on that picture. "That's how it came to appear in the
Express - it caused murders!"
Whether he was poorly advised, or just naive, Ince has never been forgiven
for that indiscretion, and even one of his best mates at West Ham - Steve
Potts - found it difficult to understand why he had gone through with it.
"You just wouldn't do it would you?" said West Ham legend Potts. "I honestly
think he was misguided over the Manchester United business. "He was young
and John Lyall had guided him very well, but when Lou Macari took over and
he was pictured in the paper in that red shirt, it was always going to be a
hard one to turn round."
It certainly was, but whatever West Ham fans may think of the Goodmayes-born
footballer, he has certainly had a magnificent career as a player and a
budding one as a manager. Two seasons ago he saved Macclesfield from
relegation in League Two; last term he earned MK Dons the League Two and
Johnstone's Paint Trophy double, and now he has the chance to show what he
can do in the top flight of English football. Another former West Ham star
in Tony Cottee believes that Ince will make a good job of his first
assignment in the Premier League. "I've known Paul for years and he is a guy
with so much commitment and passion," said Cottee. "Back when he was a young
player at West Ham, you could always see he had this drive to succeed. He
was a winner. "That has continued as he has made the move into management
and it is no surprise to me that he now finds himself in the Premier
League."
Ince's first job must be to persuade star players David Bentley and Roque
Santa Cruz that their futures are at Ewood Park, his second will be to
follow in the not inconsiderable footsteps of Mark Hughes as manager. One
thing is for sure. West Ham's early fixtures did look to be an uninspiring
collection. Now with the arrival of Ince on the scene, there promises to be
some real fireworks.

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Johnson is linked again - Newham Recorder
25 June 2008

EVERTON striker Andy Johnson has once again been linked with a move to Upton
Park after stories suggesting that he is looking to return to London, writes
DAVE EVANS. The 27-year-old marksman, who scored 10 goals for the Toffees
last term, was earmarked for a move to West Ham last summer, but the clubs
could not agree the price and the Hammers opted for Craig Bellamy instead.
However, Bellamy's injury crisis, as well as Bobby Zamora being out for much
of last season, has prompted manager Alan Curbishley to look for more cover
in that position. Aston Villa and Middlesbrough are also said to be
interested in signing the England international, but if London is his
preferred destination and they can secure his services for a cut-price
£5million, West Ham may well try to land their man. Villa and Newcastle are
said to be leading the race to sign West Ham centre half Anton Ferdinand
this summer. However, they will have to stump up the princely sum of around
£8million for the former England under-21 international defender, who was in
and out of the West Ham defence last season. Curbishley is not committed to
selling the player however, and if they do not meet the price, he is likely
to stay at Upton Park for at least another season.

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Anton's into Africa for charity mission - Guardian Series

ANTON Ferdinand has joined the growing band of West Ham players spending
part of their off-season in Africa by visiting the PRO-LINE Soccer Academy
in Uganda this week. Defender Ferdinand followed team-mates Robert Green,
Craig Bellamy and John Pantsil to the continent this summer. Green is in
Tanzania and Kenya raising awareness of health charity AMREF, Bellamy has
been in Sierra Leone promoting a new football academy he is funding in the
former war-torn country, while Pantsil has been playing in World Cup 2010
qualifiers for his native Ghana. Ferdinand's visit, which started yesterday,
saw the 23-year-old follow in the footsteps of older brother Rio, the former
Irons centre-back, who helped to launch the PRO-LINE during a visit to the
country last year. The Ferdinand family has since been heavily involved in
promoting the academy, which is managed by former Uganda international Mujib
Kasule and aims to prepare young African footballers for life in Europe both
on and off the pitch.
The player's father, Julian, is a patron of the academy and has travelled to
Uganda with his son, as has another family member, scout Max, and youth
scout Gavin Rose. The Irons stopper first met PRO-LINE's aspiring young
players during a visit to London earlier this year, when the academy's side
took on Millwall and Portsmouth in friendly matches. It is hoped that any
Ugandan players who show sufficient potential will be brought to West Ham's
own prestigious Academy in London for coaching. l John Pantsil helped Ghana
to go top of World Cup 2010 African Qualifying Group Five with a 2-0 win
over Gabon in Accra on Sunday. The Black Stars, whose goals were scored by
Prince Tagoe and Portsmouth's Sulley Muntari. And Pantsil is determined to
help his country qualify for their second straight finals after reaching the
Second Round in Germany in 2006. "We were ready to give everything and we
went all out for victory," said the right-back, who turned 27 last week.
"Gabon were fantastic but we were ready for the game. "From now on, we have
to maintain our discipline and play for the win every time we play. We want
to qualify."

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Hammers to take on Villarreal in friendly - Guardian Series

WEST Ham are close to finalising a pre-season friendly against La Liga
runners-up Villarreal CF. The Irons are expected to welcome the Spaniards to
Upton Park on Saturday, August 9, as the club complete their preparations
for the new season with their now annual prestige fixture. The Hammers had
originally been expected to line-up against Portuguese champions FC Porto,
but it now appears that Villarreal will be the visitors a week before the
start of the new Barclays Premier League season. Under the management of
Chilean Manuel Pellegrini, the team from a small town just outside Valencia
have qualified for next season's UEFA Champions League after beating
Barcelona, Atletico Madrid and Sevilla to second place behind champions Real
Madrid. Pellegrini, who has been in charge at El Madrigal since 2004, led
Villarreal to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2006, where The
Yellow Submarine' lost to Arsenal. Led by former Gunners star Robert Pires
and long-serving captain Josico, the Spaniards have a multi-talented squad
at their disposal.
Spain Euro 2008 stars Joan Capdevila and Santi Carzola, Turkey striker Nihat
Kahveci and Danish veteran Jon Dahl Tommasson are all expected to appear at
the Boleyn Ground, while new signings Brazilian Edmilson and American star
Jozy Altidore could also be in the Villarreal line-up. In last season's
corresponding fixture, a fit-again Dean Ashton scored his first Upton Park
goal in more than a year as West Ham beat Italians AS Roma 2-1. Alan
Curbishley's side have a busy pre-season schedule to look forward to, with
the club flying to North America for a two-match tour in mid-July. The Irons
will take on the Columbus Crew (July 20) and MLS All-Stars in Toronto (July
24) during a week-long stay, before heading back to England for friendlies
at Peterborough United (July 29), Southampton (August 1) and Ipswich Town
(August 4) before Villarreal come to the East End.

9:50am today

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Web Digest [ West Ham United ] - 25th June 2008

Dyer aiming higher _ WHUFC
Having had to watch on from the sidelines last season, Kieron Dyer is out to
play a key role next time around
25.06.2008

Kieron Dyer is fully focused on a big season both personally and for West
Ham United and is relishing the prospect of being back in the first-team
picture.

With just three appearances before he suffered a season-ending double
leg-break last August, Dyer has worked tirelessly to recover in time for the
new campaign. Should he prove his fitness to Alan Curbishley, the England
international is eager to be part of a progressive West Ham United side.
"You look at the likes of Everton and Aston Villa and I do believe that we
can finish ahead of them if we can keep everyone fit," he said at a recent
fans forum. "The key to their success has been they have had the same
starting eleven. Let's see if we can get everyone fit and if we can go for a
run."

Dyer is particularly looking forward to being involved again with the squad
on a daily basis. He is already well used to working alongside former
Newcastle United colleagues Scott Parker and Craig Bellamy and predicts
having them and him back together "will be like three new signings". He has
also been impressed by the leadership shown by Lucas Neill, who he describes
as "by far the best captain I have ever had". He added: "As a player, if you
have got a problem, he will sort it out. He is a great man. He thought the
players were low [after the 4-1 defeat at Manchester United] and suggested a
get together to build team spirit up ... that's the kind of man he is."

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Bellamy giving back - WHUFC
Craig Bellamy is committed to making a difference to underprivileged
youngsters in Sierra Leone
24.06.2008

Craig Bellamy has returned from his summer trip to Sierra Leone and the
successful launch of the Craig Bellamy Foundation.

The Wales striker had been visiting the African country's capital Freetown
as part of his plan to use football as a vehicle for positive social
development. Among the launch events were the first soil being cut at the
site of his new football Academy, a beach soccer event involving the
country's national team and a reception at the British High Commission.

Speaking before his departure, Bellamy told a West Ham United fans forum
about his interest in helping the underprivileged in Sierra Leone by
establishing a multi-league football system and developing community
projects. He revealed he first went to the country a year ago and it was to
leave a lasting and profound impression.

"It was breathtaking to be honest," he said. "It was more than I could ever
have expected. What I was doing was if I saw a group of kids playing in the
street, I would stop off and play with them ... to give something back that
is the only way I can do it. I only know football." He added that he thought
then about setting up an academy to help the underprivileged and that is
what has taken him back to the country this month.

While such football targets spur him on, he will continue to take a strong
personal interest in his charitable work for the rest of his life. "It is
something I am able to do, I am very privileged. I am very lucky to do it.
For me personally, it is the most rewarding thing I can do for a group of
people who really deserve it. I am going to be kept busy and it is something
I am looking forward to."

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Wembley chance for Noble - WHUFC
Mark Noble should figure when England U21s play a major match at the
national stadium in September
23.06.2008

Mark Noble could be representing England at Wembley in September after it
was announced England will play their final 2009 European Under-21
Championship qualifier at the stadium.

The 21-year-old midfielder , with ten caps and three goals, has been a
mainstay of Stuart Pearce's side as they look to qualify for next summer's
tournament in Sweden. With six wins and a draw, the Young Lions are almost
certain to qualify from Group 3 even before Portugal visit the rebuilt venue
for the high-profile fixture on Friday 5 September. The Portuguese are six
points adrift with two games to play.

Speaking to theFA.com, England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce said: "We want
the transition to the seniors to be as smooth as possible. Taking this game
to Wembley is part of that. A lot of the Under-21 players will never have
played there before and the experience of playing this game there will help
them as and when they step up to the seniors."

In the UEFA qualifying competition, only the ten group winners are certain
to reach the 14-team play-offs, with the four best runners-up also making it
through to the two-legged ties set for October. Noble, who was part of the
squad that reached the 2007 U21 Euro semi-finals, should also be involved
when the U21s warm-up with a friendly against Slovenia on Tuesday 19 August
in Hull. England could also boast James Tomkins and Freddie Sears in their
ranks - especially if the duo impress for the U19s at July's European U19
Championship.

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Price named - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 24th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Anton Ferdinand could be the subject of a tug-of-war between Newcastle and
Aston Villa, according to reports in today's tabloids. West Ham United are
reported to have placed a figure of £8 million on the head of the former
academy trainee, whose place in the squad is under threat. Alan Curbishley
is said to have run out of patience with the young centre-half who was
reprimanded last year after flying to the USA for a friend's party when he
had claimed to be visiting a sick relative instead. Ferdinand was also
involved in a major court case a year ago from which he was later acquitted.
Additionally he has suffered a number of injury problems this term. An
unnamed club source quoted in today's Daily Mail said: "West Ham would not
be interested in any figure under £8 million for Ferdinand. They certainly
would not let him go for £6 million. "They don't want Anton to go but his
agent [Jeff Watson] has not been in looking for a new contract so something
might happen."
Tottenham, who were previously linked with Ferdinand have dismissed rumours
of possible interest leaving Villa and Newcastle as front-runners to land
the younger brother of former Hammer Rio. Villa specifically are in the
market for a new central defender after losing Olaf Mellberg earlier in the
summer.

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Winger bid dead - KUMB
Filed: Tuesday, 24th June 2008
By: Staff Writer

Wolves winger Michael Kightly has signed a new four-year deal at Molineux,
ending speculation linking him with West Ham. The deal was confirmed earlier
today; Kightly told the club website: "I'm really pleased that the deal has
been completed. I hope it will stop all of this talk about me wanting to
leave.
"I've really enjoyed myself at Wolves; I wear the shirt with pride and will
continue to do so".
United's apparent interest in the Championship winger first emerged at the
beginning of May. Kightly was linked with a move to East London after Grays
Chairman Mick Woodward claimed that the player was on his way out of
Molineux. The 22-year-old Basildon-born midfielder began his career with
Southend United. He spent two years with the Blues before being picked up by
Grays on a free transfer after being released by the League One side.
Kightly spent a short period on trial with Wolves during November 2006
before being signed on a permanent contract for a fee in the region of
£100,000 at the start of the 2007 January transfer window.

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HAMMERS TALK: Noble could be the leading man for his country - Guardian
Series

WEST Ham midfielder Mark Noble is a leading contender to lead out England's
Under 21s at Wembley later this year, writes Iain Liddle.

The FA have announced that the team's final qualification game ahead of the
2009 European Championships is to be played at the historic stadium and
Noble could be in line to captain the side.

Stuart Pearce's men are almost certain to qualify for the tournament, which
is to be held in Sweden, and will play Portugal in the fixture. The visitors
are currently six points behind England with two games left to play.

"We want the transition to the seniors to be as smooth as possible. Taking
this game to Wembley is part of that. A lot of the Under-21 players will
never have played there before and the experience of playing this game there
will help them as and when they step up to the seniors." Pearce told the
FA.com Twenty one-year-old Noble has scored three goals in ten appearances
for the Under 21 side since making his debut in June 2007 against the Czech
Republic, The energetic midfielder has also previously captained the England
Under 18 side in and was a member of the Under 19 team which lost to France
in the final of the 2005 European Championships.

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England star keen on Hammers switch - Clubcall
20080625 09:16

West Ham target Andy Johnson is said to have revealed he will only consider
a move to Upton Park if Everton agree to sell him. Johnson has been linked
with several big money moves away from Goodison Park with Aston Villa, Wigan
and Middlesbrough all said to be interested in signing him as well as West
Ham. Hammers boss Alan Curbishley and Villa manager Martin O'Neill appear
to be the front runners to sign the England striker, who cost £8.6 million
from Crystal Palace two years ago. But West Ham look to be in pole position
if Everton make him available as Johnson is said to have told reporters
during a recent visit of former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson
to Birmingham that he would only consider a move to West Ham should the
Toffees agree to sell him.

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