Happy New Year!!
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Upson plays captain's part
WHUFC.com
England defender Matthew Upson led by example in the hard-fought success against Stoke City
29.12.2008
Matthew Upson was delighted to be able to skipper the team to a 2-1 success against Stoke City on Sunday and is looking forward to a bright new year.
The England defender - arguably the form player in his position in the country - was resolute again against a physical Stoke side who pushed West Ham United all the way on Sunday. He was wearing the captain's armband in the absence of injured Lucas Neill. "It is a great honour. I am happy to captain the team. Whenever needed, I will be there to support the team. It is nice to do the job."
Second-half goals from Carlton Cole and Diego Tristan turned things around after Abdoulaye Faye's early opener but Upson admitted a turning point was the sending off of Ricardo Fuller for violent conduct against team-mate Andy Griffin. "I think Stoke City probably did us a favour amongst themselves but the win has been coming and again I feel we deserved it."
It was the second time in two games that West Ham United had come from behind to win, something they had not managed at all this season until Boxing Day's 4-1 triumph at Portsmouth. "It was a welcome win," added the 29-year-old. "We battled away and got the three points in the end. Without a doubt it has shown the character in the team. We had to have belief that we were going to be successful after the first goal went in.
"We kept doing what we believed in, passed the ball, got a run of luck in the game which you need sometimes and took the points which is what we desperately needed. Now we can look forward. We have got some good fixtures ahead and hopefully more wins like we got against Stoke."
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Behrami a happy Hammer
WHUFC.com
Valon Behrami is relishing his time at the Boleyn Ground and looking to the future
30.12.2008
Valon Behrami has spoken again about his happiness in England as a proud West Ham United player as he looks forward to a successful 2009.
Still only 23, the Switzerland midfielder has achieved much in the game - having played at the highest level in Italy and England as well as the Champions League, appeared at the 2006 World Cup and then represented the host nation at last summer's European Championship. For the coming year, Behrami is focused only on keeping the enjoyment factor.
"I am comfortable in England," said the energetic former Lazio favourite, who was unsurprisingly a former cross-country champion in his youth, said. "When I first arrived here I was very happy and this is the important thing for me. This is the goal in my job and what I want every time.
"[The success against Stoke] was a good win for us and I am happy with the result. We have to carry on doing this and collecting points to push us up the table." The whufc.com users' man of the match in the 2-1 win on Sunday added that the squad could achieve even more, especially if they can start to take the initiative in matches.
"The character is good but we don't want to fall behind every time. We can't just switch on when we go behind, we need to switch on from the start because it's not always easy to come back."
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Goal glee for Tristan
WHUFC.com
Diego Tristan wants more of the same after being the match-winner for West Ham United against Stoke City
30.12.2008
He has scored goals at Camp Nou, Old Trafford and, most famously, Deportivo La Coruna's Riazor, but few will have meant more to Spanish international Diego Tristan than his dramatic 88th-minute winner in West Ham United's 2-1 win over Stoke City on Sunday.
The 32-year-old was on hand to divert Carlton Cole's goalbound shot past Thomas Sorensen to break the ten-man Potters' hearts. Tristan celebrated his first goal since netting for Livorno against Roma in Italy's Serie A on 9 December 2007 by sliding on his knees in front of the Boleyn Ground's Dr Martens Stand. The outpouring of emotion showed just how much the goal - the first of the striker's Hammers' career - meant to Tristan.
"I feel really good. It was fantastic for me. I feel really happy to be playing and I felt really good before I went on to the pitch. Now I have scored a goal I hope that it will give confidence both to myself and to the manager ahead of the next match.
Tristan has made three Barclays Premier Reserve League South starts for United since winning a contract in October following a successful trial. After four substitute appearances for the first team, however, the Spaniard is desperate to show manager Gianfranco Zola, his team-mates and the club's supporters what he can do on the Premier League stage.
"There was a fantastic atmosphere inside the Boleyn Ground during the game [against Stoke]. I was really impressed with the first time I heard it and I am impressed again every time I come to the stadium. It is great for me to play in front of such unbelievable fans. I really hope to help them by helping the team to win some more matches with my goals. I hope to make them happy with my play."
Manager Zola admitted Tristan may not be quite ready to start a Premier League match fitness-wise, but the former Real Mallorca hit-man believes he will be ready if called upon - perhaps against Barnsley in the FA Cup this Saturday.. Now he is off the mark, Zola knows he has a ready-made alternative for first-choice forwards Carlton Cole and Craig Bellamy. Tristan, for one, is keen to prove that theory.
"I don't know if I will start a game soon because it is the manager's decision but I feel really good. I hope with this goal I can give more confidence to the manager in me. Bellamy and Cole are doing fantastically well but I hope that when the manager calls on me I can come in and score some goals."
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Momentum key for manager
WHUFC.com
Gianfranco Zola has high hopes but knows more results will only come if his team keep their focus
30.12.2008
Gianfranco Zola's players reported back to Chadwell Heath today with the manager urging his in-form players to keep their momentum.
The squad were given a rare day off on Monday after a hectic Christmas period but Zola knows this weekend's FA Cup visit of Barnsley is an important occasion for all at the club. Not just in terms of trying to reach the fourth round but in order to keep that winning feeling for the second half of the Premier League season.
"Now we have the momentum on our side we have to keep working and playing the way we have been. Things are good for us right now but we have to keep our feet on the ground - especially because some of the other teams can do the same."
Morale will certainly be high with the manager delighted to be in tenth place - a jump of seven places in just three days . He is already aware of the significance of Saturday week's trip to Newcastle United and the chance to go six unbeaten on the road.
"It is unbelievable. Five days ago we were talking about a different story. It is a strange championship...everybody here at West Ham wants to take this team to a better level. Hopefully we are going to be able to do that."
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Colchester want to retain Walker
BBC.co.uk
Colchester United manager Paul Lambert has said he wants to sign goalkeeper Jimmy Walker on a permanent basis. The 35-year-old West Ham shot-stopper has one game left of his spell with the U's, during which he has helped the side rise to 11th in League One. Boss Lambert told BBC Essex: "He is a brilliant goalkeeper and he has been a massive help to us since he's been at the club. "His last game is on Saturday and we'll do our best to keep him." Walker's latest contribution to the U's resurgence came against Leyton Orient on Sunday, when he saved Adam Boyd's second-half penalty in their 1-0 win at the Community Stadium. "He is a top, top goalkeeper," Lambert said. "I've told him he reminds me of Andy Goram, who was an unbelievable keeper up in Scotland and Jimmy is the same."
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Taking the Michael
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham United's FA Cup third round clash with Barnsley will be officiated by one of the Football League's youngest referees.
Michael Oliver - who is only 23 - has been announced as the referee for Barnsley's visit to the Boleyn Ground this weekend. It will be the first occasion on which Oliver has refereed a game involving a Premier League side.
Newcastle-born Oliver has been a regular in the Football League this season, having been promoted to the Championship referee's list last term. Thus far he has shown only one red card - to Burnley's on loan striker Chris Eagles for a second bookable offence during the Clarets 0-0 home draw with Plymouth back in August - although he made 48 bookings and showed four red cards in his 21 games last season, only one of which ended without a single caution.
Oliver - who was described by Stoke supportes as 'clueless' and 'totally out of his depth' following their visit to Preston last season - follows his father Clive into the game. The pair became the first father and son duo to officiate in a Football League match when Michael ran the line for his dad in a 2005 Rotherham v Port Vale League Cup tie.
Buckinghamshire's Mark Scholes and Suffolk's Simon Long have been appointed as referee's assistants/linesmen. James Linington, from the Isle of White, will be the fourth official. The game kicks off at 3pm this Saturday (3rd January).
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Do the Bart man
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
West Ham are understood to be in talks with Polish youngster Salomon Bartosz over a permanent transfer. 17-year-old Bartosz, who currently plys his trade with Italian Serie B outfit Brescia Calcio met Hammers chiefs over Christmas in order to discuss a move to England. The 6'3" midfielder made his first team club debut againt Modena at the end of the 2007/08 season, and has made one appearance - against Grosseto - for the Rondinelle thus far this season. He began his career with local junior side Concord Murowana Goslina before joining pro outfit Lech Poznan at the start of the 2005/06 season. Bartosz - then only 15 - made his first team debut for Poznan during the 2006/07 season but was snapped up by Brescia less than a year later, where he was spotted by United's Gianluca Nani. He has also represented his country at junior levels.
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Probably a Robbery
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Robert Green has insisted that he remains fully committed to West Ham United - despite speculation linking him with a January exit. Rumours have been rife that Green - along with the likes of Matthew Upson and Craig Bellamy - would be on their way in the transfer window as the board seek to address the financial difficulties imposed on the club by the collapse of Chairman Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson's business empire. However Green insists that the board have promised that there will be no 'fire sale' in the January transfer wondow - despite a string of rumours to the contrary. "We've been assured as senior players that there won't be a fire sale from the chief executive," he said. "But it's something which is completely out of our control at the moment. "There's not much I can do about it; all I can do is keep playing well for West Ham. I want to play for West Ham and all the lads want to play for West Ham. There are things that are beyond our control and there are things that go on that are not down to us as players. "But I'm happy playing for West Ham in the most exciting league in the world. What more motivation do you need? You look at the team and everyone wants to play well for West Ham.There aren't many unhappy faces, if any, in the camp."
Green - who played his part in the two Christmas wins that catapulted United up to tenth in the Premier League table - also revealed that confidence in the camp was high following the successes over Portsmouth and Stoke. "The two wins have been massive and really changed the face of our season," he added. "People were dreading what Christmas might bring but we're now just two points off Hull, who have supposedly had a magnificent start to the season. "We're starting the New Year on a high and can now look forward to a cup game following two big wins."
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Fortunes always hiding?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: John Philpott
Reference has been made on various threads on the KUMB.com forums recently to the expected appearance during December of the latest West Ham accounts. This is when the accounts have normally been published in the past: to the credit of the club there is a section of the official site from which financial reports can be downloaded.
Indeed, given the May year end, this is when the accounts of West Ham United Football Club plc (the club that plays in the Premier League) and West Ham United plc (its immediate holding company) should have come into the public domain, as plcs (public limited companies) are allowed seven months by law to lodge their accounts at Companies House.
WH Holding Ltd, the UK acquisition vehicle used by the Icelandic consortium, is a private company and therefore allowed ten months to file its accounts, although in practice it lodged its 2007 accounts in December 2007 at the same time as the accounts of the two plcs.
I had been keeping an eye on the Companies House website as there seemed likely to be a number of items of considerable interest in the accounts when they appeared, and had been wondering why the filing of the accounts was apparently being left to the last minute. Today there has been a significant development, but not the one that I was expecting: instead of the accounts showing up as having been lodged, the due date for the next accounts of the two plcs shown on the Companies House web check service has changed from the 31st December 2008, that appeared yesterday, to 29th March 2009.
I could intitially only think of three possible explanations for this:
1. The plcs had been re-registered as private companies, thereby extending the filing deadline by three months;
2. The accounting period had been extended by three months (with accounts to be prepared for a fifteen month period) with a similar effect;
3. The directors had given a notice claiming a 3 months extension on the grounds that the companies carried on business or had interests outside the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
However, Companies House still classifies the entities as public companies, ruling out 1. Although there are Icelandic interests in West Ham, the converse does not seem to apply, so I disregard 3. There had indeed been a change in accounting reference date yesterday, but far from extending the period the change that was notified to Companies House was to shorten the financial year of the plcs by one day so that it ended on 30 May rather than 30 May, which itself seemed mysterious. What could be going on?
Then it suddenly struck me. Section 244(4) of the Companies Act 1985 states:
"If the relevant accounting period is treated as shortened by virtue of a notice given by the company under section 225 (alteration of accounting reference date), the period allowed for laying and delivering acounts is that applicable in accordance with the above provisions or three months from the date of the notice under that section whichever last expires."
By the completely artificial device of giving notice on 29th December to shorten the financial year by one day, the club has succeeded in putting back the filing date by two months and 29 days. It is now the other side not only of the transfer window but of the expiry of the Hansa moratorium on 6 March.
What can it be that the Board is so desperate to hide?
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Where do we go from here?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: Paul Turner
Supporting West Ham at times is like being on the bridge of the Starship Enterprise. When under attack everyone goes one way and the captain goes the other way as you get thrown. You feel under siege and that danger lurks around most corners.
The past year will go down in our history as a strange one that has thrown us loyal supporters at times. The history books will show a time when a home win was booed, a manager who achieved 10th place for a side where 10th should be the aim walking/getting the sack and a Billionaire losing a fair chunk of his money.
Add to that the announcement of transfer deadline deals hours after the window closed, a shirt sponsor going bust leaving us with a horrible number patch, Sheffield United 'winning' their case against West Ham for their own relegation and some spankings (most notably the three 4-0s in a row) its fair to say its been eventful. So as 2008 closes out, where does West Ham go from here?
If the ITK's are correct then a potential buyer is waiting for Sheffield United matters to be resolved and also for BG to suffer further financial complications to make the club as a package more desirable. However the gloss of the club will not look as shiny if players that are essential to us keeping our heads above water are sold.
Green, Upson, Collins, Behrami, Noble, Collison (the 'new Michael Carrick' – copyrighted by me, even though I should follow my own advice about not getting ahead of myself), Parker and Bellamy. That's a good spine for your squad. We must not break this up unless replacements of a similar or better quality is waiting and I find that hard to believe that we could do that kind of business in January.
Zola has said he does not want to sell his best players so that should be that. Right? The recent noises have been about a squad too big and how some fringe players to go. I envisage the likes of Quashie and Stokes finding new homes but as everyone else fears it might be first teamers who are going to relocate to pastures new. Selling the likes of Upson (unless they come out and say they want to go) would be a grave betrayal of all the supporters of this club.
Modern football has bought about new situations and consequences for failure that are so far removed from the ideals and game that our forebears knew. Relegation saw our squad broken up due to imminent financial peril in the 2002/03 season. In 1977/78 pretty much the same group of players were retained after relegation as the effect was not so great as felt now.
At the moment we have won two games in a row against Portsmouth away and Stoke at home. These six points have pushed us a little bit away from trouble but the haunting ghost of 2002/03, when 42 points wasn't enough is still there. We need to combine these good results and carry on at Newcastle on the 10th of January. We must not get ahead of ourselves and think we are safe and look upwards until we are further away from the bottom.
One of the more frustrating things about our recent run has been the stop/start nature of it. A good result away followed by poor home results (up until Stoke). My personal belief is that for a mid-table club like ours, the home form keeps you out of trouble and the away games are there for opportunities to keep the points total ticking over. Teams with title ambitions obviously aim to win all their games but we are not even in that stratosphere.
I do not believe in targeting particular games like West Brom at home and putting all your eggs in one basket when it comes to potential points. There are plenty of games out there for us to do well in and keep ourselves in this division and our recent away form has shown that we are more then capable away from the Boleyn.
The same applies to everyone else looking nervously over their shoulders so Mr Zola and Mr Clarke, it's down to you to ensure we do enough. Happy New Year, make sure you continue the good work and the rewards will come.
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Zola determined to hold onto key players after late win
KUMB.com
Filed: Monday, 29th December 2008
By: Thomas Rooney
You get the feeling that Gianfranco Zola is starting to enjoy being manager of West Ham. Not only that, he is starting to grow in confidence. Both of these aspects are important if he is going to be a success, so the longer this continues the better!
As we all know, the scenario that could end Zola's new found feel good factor is if the West Ham boss is forced to sell his best players during next month's January transfer window. Several players, including Craig Bellamy, Robert Green and Matthew Upson, have been linked with moves away from Upton Park in recent weeks.
However, speaking after the 2-1 victory over Stoke City (of which I will discuss in a minute), Zola said that he would do everything he can to 'keep all our players'. He then went on to say that each player at the club is determined to 'take this team to a better level'.
It is all well and good Zola wanting to avoid selling his best players though, what else is he going to say? The problem is the financial situation at the club. As much as Zola may want to keep his players, his hand may be forced by the relevant men upstairs. For example, should Manchester City come in with a £10m bid for Bellamy – would the board be able to refuse it?
Well, Zola believes that the 'financial thing' as he so aptly calls it, is 'not a problem'. He says that the West Ham board have informed him that no player have to be sold next month and that he will not be undermined if a big offer comes in. This is encouraging, but to be honest, I will believe it when I see it.
Anyway, enough of speculation, let's look at the victory over Stoke. By no means was it the best performance from West Ham, but nobody minds about that at this stage. It was three points and suddenly the Hammers find themselves 10th in the Premier League.
To be fair, Stoke were masters of their own downfall. They were reduced to ten men when Ricardo Fuller threw a punch at his team-mate Andy Griffin and from this moment onwards, their concentration levels were gone.
I personally wasn't surprised when the home side got the winner, it just seemed inevitable. Zola also admitted that he thought it was a 'matter of time' before his team found the winner. There was also some luck involved, which is something the Hammers have been short on in recent weeks.
So, overall, things are looking a little better on the pitch. Back to back wins have meant that any relegation worries have been put to bed for a week or so. The football odds are no longer viewing West Ham as one of the favourites for the drop. Amazing what two wins can do in this league isn't it?
Next up for Zola is the FA Cup tie with Barnsley on the 3rd January. The Championship side made the semi-final's of the competition last year, but no football bets will be placed on them doing as well this time around. In fact, West Ham should win comfortably.
Then, during the rest of January, it will hopefully be West Ham's excellent form that dominates the headlines rather than West Ham's need to sell players.
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Nantes eyeing Faubert
Coach Baup hints at signings in the New Year
By Patrick Haond Last updated: 30th December 2008
SSN
Nantes manager Elie Baup has revealed his interest in West Ham United midfielder Julien Faubert. France international Faubert recently admitted that he is open to a return to his homeland in the January transfer window, after stressing his need to play regularly. And Baup has confirmed Faubert is among a number of targets, as he looks to rework his squad for the second half of the Ligue 1 campaign. He told L'Equipe: "We can improve in attack. There are names rumoured and clubs like Bordeaux and Nancy want to sell or loan players. "Bordeaux's Gabriel Obertan, why not? There are Nancy's Marc-Antoine Fortune and Issiar Dia too. And why not Julien Faubert? "At first, we have to work to reduce the group, otherwise I will be forced to work a different way. I will ask to find solutions."
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Di Michele dashes return talk
Italian striker happy with the Hammers
By Chris Burton Last updated: 30th December 2008
SSN
West Ham striker David Di Michele has refuted suggestions that he could be set for a quick-fire return to Torino. The Hammers ace is currently on loan at Upton Park from the Turin giants, with that agreement scheduled to run until the end of the season. The 32-year-old had first sought to leave Italy after suffering a fall-out with then Torino manager Gigi De Biasi. With Walter Novellino having now taken the Stadio Olimpico hot-seat there have been suggestions that Di Michele may welcome the opportunity to head back home. However, despite struggling to hold down a regular role in England, the experienced front-man insists he is happy to fight for his place with the Hammers. "I have heard news regarding my return to Turin, but I am only thinking about doing well for West Ham," he said. "Anyway, it does not depend on me since I am on loan. "Here in England I settled well and although I haven't been playing much recently I want to prove myself." Di Michele has scored just two goals in 12 appearances for Gianfranco Zola's side, but the West Ham boss insists he has no intention of allowing his countryman to leave. "We have several quality players and it is understandable that big clubs are after them," said the Italian coach. "However, we are not planning to sell."
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Lambert eyes Walker stay
United boss eager to secure goalkeeper on a permanent basis
Last updated: 30th December 2008
SSN
Colchester manager Paul Lambert wants to agree a permanent deal for goalkeeper Jimmy Walker. The 35-year-old has helped Colchester to four wins from seven games, but his initial spell on loan from West Ham expires after Saturday's home game against Tranmere. Lambert, though, is keen to reach an agreement with the Premier League side which will allow Walker to stay. "Jimmy Walker is an excellent goalkeeper and he's been a massive help to us since he has been here," said Lambert. "He reminds me of Andy Goram who was a remarkable goalkeeper in Scotland and I'd like to bring him here permanently."
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Hammers look at Pole
Zola to cast eye over Salamon
Last updated: 30th December 2008
SSN
Skysports.com understands West Ham have handed a trial to Brescia midfielder Bartosz Salamon. Salamon is well know to Hammers technical director Gianluca Nani who is aware of him from his time at Brescia. The 17-year-old has already broken into the Brescia first team after joining the club from Lech Poznan in 2007. Salamon is highly regarded and the likes of Chelsea and Real Madrid have been credited with an interest in his services in the past. Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is keen to bolster his squad and he will cast an eye over Salamon in training before deciding whether or not to pursue his interest in the midfielder. Nani will be hoping to use his contacts at Brescia to help West Ham seal a deal for Salamon if Zola does opt to try and bring the Pole to Upton Park.
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Green - No Hammers fire sale
Hammers keeper receives assurances from chief executive
Last updated: 30th December 2008
SSN
West Ham United goalkeeper Robert Green is confident there will be no fire sale at Upton Park in January. The financial uncertainty at the club has prompted suggestions that manager Gianfranco Zola may be forced to part with his best players next month. Craig Bellamy has been the subject of a bid from Tottenham Hotspur and has also been linked with a move to Manchester City. Hammers team-mate Scott Parker is also a rumoured target for City, while Matthew Upson has been tipped for a New Year transfer. However, Green has been assured by chief executive Scott Duxbury there will be no mass exodus from the club. "It's something which is completely out of our control," said Green in the Daily Star. "These things happen in life, but we've been assured as senior players that there won't be a fire sale from the chief executive and we'll just have to wait and see. "I'm happy playing for West Ham in the most exciting league in the world. What more motivation do you need? "You don't want to go out and have a bad game, and I love playing for West Ham. "You look at the team and everyone who gets out there wants to play well for West Ham. There's not many unhappy faces, if any, in the camp. "But there's not much I can do about it. All I can do is keep playing well. I want to play for West Ham, all the lads do. "There are things that are beyond our control and there are things that go on that's not down to us as players."
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Behrami - We must be alert
Midfielder wants to stop conceding early goals
Last updated: 29th December 2008
SSN
Valon Behrami does not believe West Ham can afford to keep conceding early goals. The Hammers fell behind against Portsmouth on Boxing Day but stormed back to secure an emphatic 4-1 victory. West Ham then beat Stoke 2-1 on Sunday, but only after the Potters had opened the scoring through Abdoulaye Faye. Behrami impressed in both games and was delighted to help West Ham claim the maximum three points. However, he feels West Ham must make sure they are alert from the first whistle in future. Behrami said: "I'm happy with the result. We have to carry on doing this and collecting points to push us up the table. "The character is good but we can't fall behind every time. We can't just switch on when we go behind. We need to switch on from the start because it's not always easy to come back. "But it's always nice to win these kinds of games."
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Collins makes Bellamy plea
Sport.co.uk
Author: Nigel Brown
Posted on: 30 December 2008 - 8:59 PM
West Ham's stars are pleading with the club's board not to sell Craig Bellamy in the January transfer window. Chief executive Scott Duxbury has already ruled out a fire sale at the club - despite club owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson suffering huge losses in Iceland's banking crisis. But boss Gianfranco Zola is desperate for funds and could be forced to sell at least one key player if he is to bolster his squad in the New Year sales. Robert Green, Scott Parker and Matthew Upson have all been linked with moves away from Upton Park with the vultures circling the east London club. The Hammers have already turned down two offers from Tottenham for Bellamy, while Manchester City have also failed in a bid to land the striker. While Spurs are now likely to turn their attention to signing Jermain Defoe from Portsmouth, West Ham are bracing themselves for another mega-bid for Bellamy from City boss Mark Hughes. And defender James Collins, a close friend of Bellamy's from their time together with Wales, says the club must do all they can to resist City's millions and keep hold of their chief goal threat. "We've got to hang onto Craig," said Collins.
"Any player like Craig you want to hang onto if you're going to progress as a football club. "I'm sure everyone at the club will say the same because he's a great lad to have around the place. "He goes out there every game trying to score goals and although it wasn't happening for him for a while, hopefully now he can kick on and add to the goals he scored against Portsmouth. "Let's hope he'll be firing on all cylinders for us for the rest of the season."
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Nantes target West Ham's Faubert as priority signing
Zola willing to sell £6m signing from Bordeaux
Dominic Fifield guardian.co.uk, Tuesday 30 December 2008 22.11 GMT
The Nantes coach Elie Baup has earmarked the signing of West Ham's Julien Faubert as "a priority" as the club attempt to pull away from the relegation zone in the French First Division. The France international, a £6m signing from Bordeaux 18 months ago, is available for transfer as Gianfranco Zola moves to trim his squad in response to the effects of the credit crunch.
Faubert suffered a ruptured achilles tendon in pre-season last term which denied him a debut for six months and he has been used as a utility player over the current campaign, filling in at full-back as well as in his favoured attacking midfield role. Yet, after only 19 Premier League starts, he expressed a desire to return to France, with Nantes prepared to fight Lyon and Bordeaux for his signature. "In my mind, if I could sign anyone, the priority would be Julien Faubert," said Baup.
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Bolton boss eyes Morrison and Davenport double transfer raid
By Sportsmail Reporter Last updated at 12:45 AM on 31st December 2008
Bolton boss Gary Megson has launched a £3m raid on former club West Bromwich Albion for midfielder James Morrison. Megson tabled an offer for the Scotland international on Tuesday morning in his first move of the January transfer window and is also set to make a £1.5m bid for out-of-favour West Ham defender Calum Davenport in the next 48 hours. Megson has also recalled defender Nicky Hunt from his loan spell at Birmingham.
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Hammers tell Parker he must stay put
By Jason Burt
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
Independent.co.uk Web
West Ham United have told Scott Parker that he will not be allowed to leave and join Manchester City, even though the midfielder has indicated that he would like the opportunity to speak to the club.
A combined bid of £15m was lodged by City over the weekend for Parker and his West Ham team-mate Craig Bellamy, who is also wanted by Tottenham Hotspur, but was immediately rejected by West Ham, who are determined to hold on to their best players in the January transfer window.
Parker and Bellamy have been targeted by the City manager, Mark Hughes, who is also keen to sign Chelsea's Wayne Bridge and the Arsenal defender Kolo Touré, who appears the most likely of the quartet to make a move next month after falling out of favour at the Emirates. He could command a fee of around £10m.
No further offer has been made by City for Parker or Bellamy, although there have been indications that they will lodge another within the next few days. Spurs, also, are weighing up whether to offer more for Bellamy after having an initial £6m rejected by West Ham on Christmas Eve. But they yesterday denied they have bid £12m for the Welsh international.
West Ham have also told Matthew Upson that he is staying next month and it is understood the central defender has said he is happy to, despite interest from a host of clubs, including Newcastle United.
West Ham's chief executive, Scott Duxbury, is taking a tough stance and refusing to sell any of the club's top players. The club have told their manager, Gianfranco Zola, that he will have the final say on sales and are determined not to break up what they believe is a strong spine to the first team, including goalkeeper Robert Green, Valon Behrami and Mark Noble as well as Bellamy, Parker and Upson. If an offer of £15m was made for any of their prize assets, then it would be put to Zola.
West Ham believe this will prove that the club are not in financial meltdown, as has been claimed, and that despite the problems faced by the owner, Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson, they do not need to sell.
However there is a list of potential departures drawn up by Zola, Duxbury and the technical director, Gianluca Nani, as the club aim to reduce the size of the squad. It includes Julien Faubert, who is attracting interest from Nantes, Calum Davenport, who is believed to be wanted by Bolton Wanderers and fringe players such as Luis Boa Morte.
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West Ham fail in Jimenez bid
by Robin Hackett , 30 December 2008
Setanta
West Ham have failed in a bid to sign Inter midfielder Luis Jimenez, according to the player's agent. The 24-year-old Chile international has apparently been approached by West Ham as well as Sampdoria and Lecce, but his agent, Rocco Dozzini, says the Serie A champions have decided not to sell. "Everybody is asking about Jimenez," he told El Mercurio. "That is quite normal because we are talking about an excellent player, but he will stay at Inter because they have decided he will not be transferred. "Luis belongs to Inter and there is absolutely no chance he will leave." He added: "West Ham, Sampdoria, Lecce call me every day. "Inter are one of the five best teams in the world, alongside Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool, so he will stay here."
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Exclusive: Boa Morte linked with Ninian Park move
By Chris O'Brien - 31/12/2008 01:35
CCFCSleepingGiant.com
CCFCSleepingGiant that the club will announce the capture of versatile forward Louis Boa-Morte in January. Speculation reaching us suggests that the unsettled West Ham frontman will join the Bluebirds in a two-year deal. A source claiming to have links with the football agent industry, told us: "Louis is making a career move as he enjoys playing ninety minutes of football each Saturday. He will join Cardiff City in Jan. "Whilst he has not had the best time at West Ham United he wishes to prove his worth and assist Cardiff City to the Premier."
If this speculation turns out to be true, then it will prove to be very quick work from Dave Jones and Peter Ridsdale following the news that Michael Chopra will not be allowed to extend his stay in the Welsh capital. The Portuguese international, capped 25 times for his country, does not boast the most impressive goalscoring record but certainly has the tools to succeed in the Championship. He's bagged 60 goals in 391 senior appearances - with his most prolific spell coming at Fulham where the Lisbon-frontman netted 54 times. The rumour becomes a little more realistic when you consider the fact that Boa Morte has already worked under Dave Jones during his time at Southampton. However, he scored only one goal in hugely disappointing two-years with the Hampshire club. Boa Morte would join Ross McCormack, Jay Bothroyd and on-loan USA international Eddie Johnson in the club's attacking ranks. Time will tell if this proves to be more hearsay or the truth!
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Jimenez agent reveals "daily" West Ham contact
31.12.08 | tribalfootball.com
The agent of Inter Milan midfielder Luis Jimenez has revealed the interest of West Ham. "Everybody is asking about Jimenez," Rocco Dozzini told El Mercurio. "That is quite normal because we are talking about an excellent player, but he will stay at Inter because they have decided he will not be transferred. Luis belongs to Inter and there is absolutely no chance he will leave." He added: "West Ham, Sampdoria, Lecce call me every day. "Inter are one of the five best teams in the world, alongside Barcelona, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool, so he will stay here."
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West Ham To Sell Entire First Team Squad To Spurs
By Sam H ⋅ December 30, 2008 ⋅
The West Ham Process
Perhaps it's just me, or is every single newspaper in the country writing a story about how we are selling all of our best players and keeping all of our fringe players in the January transfer window? Harry Redknapp at Spurs is more than likely to be after most of them at some point or another, we've now rejected a £12m bid for Bellamy from a team whose front line cost approximately £30m. It is true, that Spurs are desperately in need for a bit of class in their strikeforce, but as far as I care if they value Pavlyuchenko at £14m, then Bellamy must be worth at least £50m.
It's good to see that the Harry turnaround is really in full swing now - all the best down there Harry, you fit right in. Enough about Harry 'the money-grabber' Redknapp and Spurs wanting all our players, it's giving me back-ache.
Like I said earlier, all the talk is about how our entire team needs to be sold just to remain a football club, so in an attempt to clarify a few things here and there, here are a couple of quotes I've picked up over the week:
Zola: "The commitment is to improve this team so we'll try to keep all our players, everybody at West Ham wants to take this team to a better level. It's not easy because we have very good players in our team and big clubs are looking for good players. There's also the financial thing but the club tells me it's not a problem"
Good, next…
Rob Green : "These things happen in life, but we've been assured as senior players that there won't be a fire sale from the chief executive and we'll just have to wait and see. I'm happy playing for West Ham in the most exciting league in the world. What more motivation do you need?You don't want to go out and have a bad game, and I love playing for West Ham You look at the team and everyone who gets out there wants to play well for West Ham. There's not many unhappy faces, if any, in the camp. But there's not much I can do about it. All I can do is keep playing well. I want to play for West Ham, all the lads do
Spurs and Bellamy : "Spurs manager Harry Redknapp underlined his determination to sign Bellamy by doubling his original £6m bid but the Hammers are determined to hang on to him" - Mail
Zola Again : "As far as I'm concerned the club is on the same line we want to keep our best players. Yes we will try everything we can to keep them obviously we have a project, an ambitious project and we need good players to achieve that."
They are all quotes that I have picked up from the last 7 days and from what I can work out it is a very different message to actually what the media are trying to stir up. It will be in the best interest of BG to try and hang onto these players because when it comes to selling a club, a team with these players (Upson, Parker, Bellamy, Green) in it is far rosier than a team without.
To clarify to the media, the players in question when we say we will be offloading fringe players are Louis Boa Morte, Faubert, Gabbiddon, Davenport (unfortunately), Quashie, Spector and preferably Carlton Cole. What you have there is a lot of players, a lot of wages and I would think at about £12m in transfer fees…that should at least pay-off Sheffield United with a bit of change I would have thought.
So either we are being completely lied to once again, and if that is the case there could be trouble because we won't take to kindly to that. Or Zola and the other senior players are speaking the truth and we can look forward to us holding onto these players in the new year and actually pressing forward.
COYI!
Sam
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Hammers flop Faubert tipped for a return to France as Nantes coach declares his interest
By Christopher Davies
Last updated at 4:03 PM on 30th December 2008
Daily Mail
Nantes want to sign Julien Faubert, who has struggled to establish himself at West Ham following his £6million transfer from Bordeaux in 2007. The French midfielder struggled with an Achilles tendon injury last season which ruled him out of action until January when he made his belated debut against Fulham, featuring in eight games over the remainder of the campaign. Faubert has struggled to claim a regular place in Gianfranco Zola's side but returned to action at the weekend as a replacement for the injured Lucas Neill - at right-back rather than his usual midfield role. Nantes coach Elie Baup said: 'If I had to sign anyone in January, the priority would be Julien Faubert.'
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Faubert Set for Nantes?
West Ham Till I Die
The Mail report that French premier Legaue outfit Nantes have expressed an interest in Julien Faubert. Their manager Elie Baup said: 'If I had to sign anyone in January, the priority would be Julien Faubert.'
Now that Jonathan Spector and Kieron Dyer are returning to fitness, we're OK on the right. Talking of Spector, I have never understood the antipathy towards him which people have expressed in the comments on this blog. He's certainly not a flamboyant player, but he is solid and rarely let us down. I'd far rather see him at right back than Lucas Neill or Julien Faubert. He can also cover at left back, in the centre of defence and, if necessary in midfield. Every team needs a player like him.
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Some Say No, Some Say Yes
Just Like My Dreams
Less or more or more or less
Leave me alone right now...
Several reports in this morning's papers suggest West Ham United have rejected a second Tottenham approach for Craig Bellamy. According to The Sun, the offer was somewhere in the region of an eye-popping £12 million, double the initial bid tabled on Christmas Eve. Andrew Dillon reports that Harry Redknapp is determined to boost his options in attack, particularly after lowly Spurs failed to score a goal over Christmas against Fulham and West Brom. Bellamy, 29, scored twice in United's 4-1 win at Portsmouth on Boxing Day and the club remain insistent they do not need to sell their best players. This latest move represents a bold attempt by Tottenham to beat competition from Manchester City, also known keen admirers of the Wales striker.
The Telegraph reiterates that City manager Mark Hughes has placed Bellamy on his list of potential January targets. And should City and Spurs become locked in a bidding war, the London club know they cannot hope to win. For their part, City are rumoured to have made an earlier £15 million approach for Bellamy and midfielder Scott Parker, which was rejected by West Ham. However, a fresh approach is likely, with City almost certain to be the Premier League's biggest spenders next month.
If Bellamy is no longer a viable option for Tottenham manager Redknapp, he may turn his attentions to Jermain Defoe. According to the Mail, Defoe has told Portsmouth manager Tony Adams he wants to be allowed to leave Portsmouth to return to White Hart Lane. Defoe, who Redknapp signed for Portsmouth from Tottenham in 2006, was frustrated to be left out of Adams' side to face Arsenal on Sunday. And the Mail says Defoe has since met with Adams to request a transfer back to White Hart Lane. Martin O'Neill, the Aston Villa manager, is also understood to be monitoring the developments with both strikers ahead of the January transfer window.
According to the Mail, Nantes are showing an interest in Julien Faubert, who has struggled to establish himself at West Ham following his £6million transfer from Bordeaux in 2007. The French midfielder struggled with an Achilles tendon injury last season which ruled him out of action until January when he made his belated debut against Fulham, featuring in eight games over the remainder of the campaign. Faubert has struggled to claim a regular place in Gianfranco Zola's side but returned to action at the weekend as a replacement for the injured Lucas Neill - at right-back rather than his usual midfield role. Nantes coach Elie Baup is quoted as saying: "If I had to sign anyone in January, the priority would be Julien Faubert."
Meanwhile, David Di Michele has refuted suggestions that he could be set for a quick-fire return to parent club Torino. The Hammers striker is currently on loan at Upton Park from the Turin club, with that agreement scheduled to run until the end of the season. The 32-year-old had first sought to leave Italy after suffering a fall-out with then Torino manager Gigi De Biasi. But with Walter Novellino having now taken the Stadio Olimpico hot-seat there have been suggestions that Di Michele may welcome the opportunity to head back home.
However, despite struggling to hold down a regular role in England, the experienced front-man insists he is happy to fight for his place with the Hammers. "I have heard news regarding my return to Turin, but I am only thinking about doing well for West Ham," he said. "Anyway, it does not depend on me since I am on loan. Here in England I settled well and although I haven't been playing much recently I want to prove myself."
Elsewhere, Fiorentina striker Giampaolo Pazzini has again been nominated as a possible transfer target for United, this time with the added complication of interest from Everton. The Mirror claims David Moyes is in desperate need of a striker following injuries to Yakubu, Louis Saha, Leon Osman and James Vaughan, while Gianfranco Zola previously knows the 24-year-old in the Italian U-21 set-up.
Pazzini has scored 24 goals in 96 league starts for Fiorentina, but is perhaps most famous for scoring the fastest goal, first official goal and also the first hat-trick at the new Wembley Stadium – all in the same U-21 international against England. You can see all the action from that game as well as other goals from the striker in the following fan compilation video; curiously sound-tracked by Hooverphonic's Human Interest.
Another Italian on Zola's watch list could be Juventus midfielder Sebastian Giovinco. Media speculation has it that any move would likely be a loan deal, with Arsenal also reported to be watching the situation closely.
In separate news, the agent of Inter player Luis Jimenez has sought to end talk the Chile international will leave the San Siro in the upcoming transfer window by discussing all those clubs who have reportedly targeted the player. Rocco Dozzini confirmed he has fielded inquiries about the player from West Ham as well as Italian duo Sampdoria and Lecce. Despite that interest, Dozzini has denied the 24-year-old attacking midfielder is seeking a move away from Inter.
"Everybody is asking about Jimenez. That is quite normal because we are talking about an excellent player," he told El Mercurio newspaper. "But he will stay at Inter because they have decided he will not be transferred. Luis belongs to Inter and there is absolutely no chance he will leave. West Ham, Sampdoria, Lecce call me every day. Regarding Lecce, I like (Mario) Baretta, I am a friend of the sporting director of the club, but there is nothing to talk about."
Finally, the three most reassuring words in the English language "Sky Sports understands"... that United have handed a trial to Brescia midfielder Bartosz Salamon. The 17-year-old Salamon arrived in the country on Boxing Day and is said to be well known to Hammers technical director Gianluca Nani who is aware of him from his time at the Italian club.
The 6 ft 3 in Pole has already broken into the Brescia first team after joining the club from Lech Poznan in 2007. Salamon is highly regarded and the likes of Chelsea and Real Madrid have been credited with an interest in his services in the past. He would not be the first young Pole to be courted by the club in recent times. Promising young defender Filip Modelski was procured back in July.
Gianfranco Zola is keen to bolster his squad and he will cast an eye over Salamon in training before deciding whether or not to pursue his interest in the midfielder. Nani will be hoping to use his contacts at Brescia to help West Ham seal a deal for Salamon if Zola does opt to try and bring the Pole to Upton Park.
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Stoke City Chairman Claims Refs Favour Big Clubs
Goal.com
As the controversy over Ricardo Fuller's red card against West Ham continues, Peter Coates believes that his side have suffered this season as a result of referees favouring the bigger clubs...
Stoke City chairman Peter Coates is not very happy with Ricardo Fuller, after the Jamaican striker was sent off against West Ham United on Sunday for slapping his own skipper, Andy Griffin. Coates feels that the incident was out of order, but he insists that the striker is a good player who will not be sold in January as a result of his actions, even though he undoubtedly cost the Potters an invaluable three points. Many Stoke fans feel that the player should be sacked and never allowed to wear the red and white shirt again, but Coates is more conciliatory. "I'm very disappointed in Ricardo indeed," said Coates to Stoke's official website. "The incident shouldn't have happened, it was unprofessional. "He's an emotional guy but needs to control himself. But in the heat of the moment, these things can happen. "We all do things that we regret and I'm sure he is regretting it now. We are going to deal with this within the club as that's the way it should be dealt with. Tony Pulis will come in on Wednesday to do whatever is necessary. "It hasn't entered our heads to sell him. We're absolutely sure we want to keep him. Ric's a good player and you don't sell your good players. He's a big player and important player, he helped to get us here [the Premier League], and he'll stay at the club."
Coates also feels however that referee Michael Jones could have handled the situation with more tact and discretion. "I'm not condoning it, but can't referees use discretion?" Coates continued. "I thought the referee could have handled it better. You see things far worse on the pitch all the time go unpunished. "Let's not get it out of proportion - it was hardly a punch like Muhammad Ali. Little incidents and spats happen all the time, on the pitch and on the training ground, we mustn't forget that."
The chairman doesn't feel that the incident will affect Stoke's togetherness and team spirit, something that has helped them stay competitive this season. "I'm sure they can play together again, the guys get on well with each other as I understand it. We have a good team spirit and I'm sure that'll continue," he continued, before highlighting the bias he believes many referees show in favour of big teams. Fuller's red card followed the one shown to Stoke's Andy Wilkinson on Boxing Day against Manchester United, and Coates feels that United players are treated differently by officials to players at more lowly clubs. Wilkinson's dismissal came after Cristiano Ronaldo had flicked a boot at him in provocation. "I'm not excusing Wilkinson, but he was aggravated by Ronaldo just before and I think everyone saw that but the referee did nothing," the Stoke chairman went on. "Then Rooney puts in a strong elbow right in front of the linesman, and again, nothing. "Big clubs get favoured treatment from referees but it's happened for a number of years. We complain through the official channels and we'll continue to complain."
Zack Wilson, Goal.com
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If One Player Has to be Sold, Then it Should be…
West Ham Till I Die
You've got to feel sorry for James Collins, who is now fit again. Calum Davenport is in storming form so he can't get back in. This is why I reckon if we do have to lose one of our star players, Matthew Upson should be the one to go. We have four excellent central defenders (Davenport, Collins, Tomkins & Gabbidon) plus Lucas Neill, who is better there than at right back.
We do not have the same cover for Bellamy or Green, and Upson is the only one who would raise real money.
Don't get me wrong. but if we really do need the money Upson, is the one to go… Just sayin', like…
[battens down the hatches]
UPDATE: Yes, I did write this before the Stoke game. My point was that any business can go through tough times and have to capitalise on its assets. Of course I don't want Upson to go, any more than you do, but if we do have to sell one our three star assets, all I am arguing is that it should be Upson rather than Green or Bellamy, purely because we have cover in his position.
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Dav on his way?
KUMB.com
Filed: Tuesday, 30th December 2008
By: Staff Writer
Calum Davenport is being linked with a move to Bolton Wanderers after being told he has no future at West Ham. The former Coventry and Tottenham centre-half is understood to have been told at the weekend that his services were no longer required by Gianfranco Zola after the two clashed ahead of West Ham's 2-1 win over Stoke at the weekend. Davenport is thought to have been unhappy at Zola's decision to drop him in favour of the returning James Collins. The lanky defender has made eight appearances for the Hammers so far this season. Meanwhile someone slightly happier with life in London is loan striker David Di Michele. Di Michele, who starred in Saturday's win over Stoke was reported to be unhappy with life in England having spent so much time on the bench. Not so, according to the diminutive striker who told reporters: "I've heard people talk about my return to Turin. However, I'm only thinking about West Ham, and anyway, it does not depend entirely on me. "I am good here, although I am not playing much at the moment I want to show more."
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West Ham won't sell big players in January, says chief exec By John Cross 30/12/2008
The Mirror
West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury has held crisis talks with senior players over the club's mounting debts. Duxbury said there would be no January fire sale - but West Ham will find it hard to resist big money for Craig Bellamy, Robert Green and Matthew Upson. Owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson suffered huge losses in Iceland's banking crisis and they may have to sell to balance the books. Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola has threatened to quit if the club do sell their stars and that led to Duxbury holding showdown talks. Keeper Green, a target for Tottenham, said: "We've been assured as senior players that there won't be a fire sale. "But it's something completely out of our control at the moment. There's not much I can do about it. All I can do is keep playing well for West Ham. I want to play for West Ham and all the lads do. "There are things beyond our control and there are things that go on that are not down to us as players."
West Ham have rejected a £6million offer from Spurs for Bellamy and Newcastle and Manchester City want Upson. But West Ham are ready to sell fringe players Jon Spector, Calum Davenport, Luis Boa Morte and Julien Faubert. Zola claims he is looking to strengthen his squad in January rather than sell. The summit has not convinced everyone but the club has now made big promises about the future and if they break their word it could leave Zola's position in doubt. Green insists he is happy at West Ham despite the deepening financial problems. He said: "I'm happy playing for West Ham in the most exciting league in the world. There aren't many unhappy faces, if any, in the camp. "The last two wins have been massive and changed our season. People were dreading Christmas but we're now just two points off Hull, who have supposedly had a magnificent start to the season."
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Tottenham Fail In £12 Million Bid For Craig Bellamy
West Ham have turned down yet another offer for their Welsh international striker...
Goal.com
According to a report in the British tabloid the Sun, Tottenham Hotspur have had an offer of £12million for West Ham United striker Craig Bellamy rejected. It is thought that Spurs had made an initial offer of £6 million for the Welsh international, who has scored 16 goals from 54 caps, on Christmas Eve but it was rebuffed by the Hammers. While it is reported that the Irons are desperate to sell some of their playing staff due to financial difficulties, it now seems that they are not prepared to lose their star players on the cheap. Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp could return with yet another improved bid as he is believed to have sounded out a striker as his number one transfer priority in the new year. The North-London based outfit are only out of the relegation zone thanks to goal difference, but only four Premier League clubs have scored less than Spurs in the league this season.
Ricky Brooks, Goal.com
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Tottenham may have to look elsewhere after West Ham reject £12m Bellamy bid
By TOM COLLOMOSSE
Last updated at 10:46 AM on 30th December 2008
Daily Mail
Tottenham may be forced to abandon their interest in Craig Bellamy after West Ham rejected a £12millon offer for the Wales striker. Spurs manager Harry Redknapp underlined his determination to sign Bellamy by doubling his original £6m bid but the Hammers are determined to hang on to him according to reports in the London Evening Standard. Despite their financial problems, West Ham are desperate to keep their best players, with Bellamy and midfielder Scott Parker also targets for Manchester City. Redknapp is keen to improve a forward line that has produced just one goal in Spurs' last four League games and his chances of bringing Jermain Defoe back to White Hart Lane have been boosted by the news that the England striker wants to return. Defoe, also valued at £12m, is virtually certain to leave Portsmouth next month, and has also attracted interest from Aston Villa. Pompey signed him from Spurs one year ago in a £9m deal, although that fee is still
to be paid in full, meaning the Fratton Park club would prefer to sell the 26-year-old to Villa. But Defoe is understood to prefer to go back to Spurs, where he would again link up with Redknapp, who was manager at West Ham when Defoe progressed from the youth team to develop into one of the most dangerous strikers in the country. Spurs midfielder Jermaine Jenas, meanwhile, is a reported target for Real Madrid, who are managed by ex-Spurs boss Juande Ramos, although Spurs would be reluctant to sell one of their key players.
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Tottenham concentrate on Jermain Defoe after West Ham reject Craig Bellamy bid
West Ham have reportedly turned down a £12 million bid from Tottenham for striker Craig Bellamy.
By Telegraph staff
Last Updated: 10:01AM GMT 30 Dec 2008
A report in the Sun claims Tottenham were unsuccessful with an initial offer of £6 million for the Wales captain before returning with an increased offer. Manchester City manager Mark Hughes is also understood to have placed Bellamy on his list of potential January targets. And should City and Spurs become locked in a bidding war, the London club know they cannot hope to win. City are understood to have made a £15 million approach for Bellamy and midfielder Scott Parker, which was rejected by West Ham. However, a fresh approach is likely, with City almost certain to be the Premier League's biggest spenders next month. West Ham's senior players have been told there will be no fire sale in January despite the club's financial situation. And goalkeeper Robert Green hopes the inevitable uncertainty will not spill over onto the pitch. "It's something which is completely out of our control," said Green. "These things happen in life, but we've been assured as senior players that there won't be a fire sale from the chief executive and we'll just have to wait and see. If Bellamy is no longer a viable option for Tottenham manager Redknapp, he may turn his attentions to Jermain Defoe. According to the Mail, Defoe has told Portsmouth manager Tony Adams he wants to be allowed to leave Portsmouth to return to White Hart Lane. Defoe, who Redknapp signed for Portsmouth from Tottenham in 2006, was frustrated to be left out of Adams' side to face Arsenal on Sunday. And the Mail says Defoe has since met with Adams to request a transfer back to White Hart Lane. Martin O'Neill, the Aston Villa manager, is also understood to be interested in Defoe.
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TOMKINS LOAN AT AN END
Posted on: Wed 31 Dec 2008
Dcfc.premiumtv.com
Defender James Tomkins is back at West Ham United after the end of his loan spell with the Rams. The 19-year-old featured eight times in all competitions including the Carling Cup quarter-final win at Stoke City, only his second game at the club. He impressed with his performances and attitude at the heart of defence and Derby had hoped to extend his stay. But the Hammers have called him back to the Boleyn Ground where he will rejoin boss Gianfranco Zola's squad
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