Daily WHUFC News - 9th September 2010

Nouble ready to play
WHUFC.com
Young forward Frank Nouble is taking aim at first-team football following a
productive summer
08.09.2010

Frank Nouble is aiming to catch the eye of manager Avram Grant after
enjoying a productive summer for both club and country. The striker, who
turns 19 later this month, helped England to reach the final of the UEFA
European Under-19 Championship in July before returning to regular
reserve-team action with West Ham United. On Tuesday, Nouble - who was a
schoolboy in Chelsea's Academy during Grant's single season in charge at
Stamford Bridge in 2007/08 - scored the winner in a friendly victory at
Leicester City, serving further indication of his potential. Having made his
Hammers first-team debut and spent time on loan at both West Bromwich Albion
and Swindon Town last season, the powerful youngster is looking to continue
his improvement in 2010/11. "We're waiting for the season to start, really.
We've had a friendly game every week, which has been good. Alex Dyer has
done well to get us games like that, and we've responded well. We've got
another game next week, so we'll have to be ready for that. "We've brought
in three or four players in my position and we've also got a new manager, so
it's just a case of starting again, really. "Maybe I'll go out on loan
again. I think I've acquitted myself well over the summer, going away with
England and doing well. Since I've come back, I've done all right, so now
it's a case of continuing to do well whether I go out on loan or stick
around and get a place in the squad now and then. It's just about playing,
really."

Looking back at the European U19 Championship, Nouble is proud of his
achievement in helping England to reach the final, where they were beaten by
Spain. The teenager scored twice in their opening group-stage win over
Austria and was an ever-present starter for Noel Blake's side. "It was good
to play under pressure. With the senior boys not doing well at the World
Cup, there was extra pressure on us to do well, but football is football and
we all just tried to go out and enjoy it. I was happy I did well and we did
well and had a good run to the final."

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Boffin eager to learn
Keeper happy to have secured move to the Premier League
Last updated: 8th September 2010
SSN

Ruud Boffin is relishing the opportunity to challenge Robert Green for the
right to be West Ham United's No.1 goalkeeper. The Hammers completed a deal
for Boffin on transfer deadline day after the Belgian impressed on trial
during the summer. The 22-year-old, who had a spell on loan at Dutch outfit
VVV Venlo last season, kept a clean sheet for West Ham's reserves against
Leicester on Tuesday night. Boffin is happy to have secured a move to the
Premier League and is keen to put pressure on the club's current
first-choice keeper Green.

"I am very happy to be here," Boffin told the club's official website. "It
is a great opportunity for me to come and play here. "I had been training
here before at Chadwell Heath. I was here for four days and I had a game.
"Things then happened very quickly on the day I signed and we had just
two-and-a-half hours for the paperwork. I had to wait until the last day,
but it all happened. "I like the atmosphere here and it is a very nicegroup.
I will learn a lot from playing with Robert and under [goalkeeping coach]
David Coles. "It is going to be a big challenge for me but I am ready."

Meanwhile, Green is expected to be fit for West Ham's game against Chelsea
on Saturday after undergoing a minor procedure last week.

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Upson's three Lions downer
The Sun
By CHARLIE WYETT
Published: Today

MATTHEW UPSON fears his England career is over. The West Ham defender is
furious he was overlooked by boss Fabio Capello for the game in Switzerland
on Tuesday. Upson, who has 21 caps, could not even get a place on the bench
despite the problems in England's central defence. The 31-year-old was also
angry with Capello on Friday for being frozen out of the Bulgaria game, and
made his feelings known to England's general manager Franco Baldini. Despite
John Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Ledley King all being out with injury, Michael
Dawson and Phil Jagielka were used instead. And in Basel, despite Dawson's
injury, Joleon Lescott partnered Jagielka with Upson once again completely
left out. Upson has told team-mates he is unlikely to be picked again by
Capello.

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Kanu sealed my Hammers deal
The Sun
Published: Today

VICTOR OBINNA says his hero Kanu helped him join West Ham. The striker hopes
to be a hit while on a one-year loan from Inter Milan. He had several big
European clubs chasing him but Nigeria team-mate Kanu advised him to hook up
with Avram Grant's Hammers. Obinna, 23, said: "I spoke to Kanu, who played
for Grant at Portsmouth, and he was excited that I come here. "Inter have an
amazing stadium but West Ham have a big culture and a very long history."

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Upson considering England future after Swiss snub from Capello
Published 22:30 08/09/10 By John Cross
The Mirror

Matthew Upson is facing the end of his England career after a bitter
fall-out with Fabio Capello. West Ham defender Upson, 31, did not make the
bench for either of England's Euro 2012 qualifiers despite being called up
by Capello. Upson had a stormy meeting with Capello and his coaching staff
after being left out against Bulgaria and England insiders felt there was a
danger he may walk out altogether before the trip to Switzerland. Ex-Arsenal
and Birmingham defender Upson loyally stayed with the squad but was equally
upset at not making the bench in Switzerland and was in a foul mood after
the game in Basel.
Upson now finds himself behind Phil Jagielka, Joleon Lescott, Gary Cahill,
Michael Dawson, John Terry and Rio Ferdinand. It leaves Upson believing he
will not get another call-up from Capello despite having an excellent record
under the England manager during the last World Cup qualifying campaign. But
Upson, a surprise call-up for the Euro 2012 qualifiers after his World Cup
ended in disappointment with a 4-1 defeat to Germany, clearly feels he has
now been relegated down the pecking order. It is unlikely that Upson will
get another call and the West Ham captain is also believed to be considering
his international future after insiders say he was left deeply "upset and
angry" at his exclusion despite being fully fit.

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LEO'S LONDON: Don't blame Avram Grant for West Ham's plight - it's actually
the fault of Thomas Hitzlsperger
Last updated at 10:55 AM on 8th September 2010
Daily Mail

When Avram Grant faces former club Chelsea on Saturday he will need little
encouragement to stress that he was just a penalty shootout away from
Champions League success with them. But if anyone wants to know what is
keeping him off the right track at West Ham, the point he makes might not be
as predictable. The absence of Thomas Hitzlsperger, apparently, is to blame
for the miserable start to the season of Grant's team. The manager sees him
as the key man, the player who can knit his collection of individuals
together and make a new three-man central midfield work alongside Scott
Parker. The club have been using pictures of Hitzlsperger, Carlton Cole and
Parker on their website as three of their most recognisable faces - and he
is certainly one of their more encouraging signings. He was well liked at
Aston Villa, where he earned the now especially apt nickname of Thomas The
Hammer for his thunderbolt shot from long range.

Hitzlsperger has the talent to pitch in with a few much-needed goals for
West Ham too and, by all accounts, was in great form in pre-season. Dragging
a whole team out of the doldrums and dissolving the pessimism which is
engulfing Upton Park would be no mean feat. But that seems to be the sort of
impact Grant and the club thought Hitzlsperger should already have had. One
reason he has not is that his signing in the summer on a free transfer from
Lazio did not make the biggest of splashes. The timing - just a few days
before the start of the World Cup - was unfortunate and after previous club
claims about targeting Thierry Henry and David Beckham, it was never going
to be a big deal. Another is the thigh injury Hitzlsperger sustained on
Germany duty which has prevented him from playing a competitive game for
West Ham. Allowances have not been made for his absence in most analyses of
their three opening defeats as a result - and it is still not certain that
he will feature against Chelsea.

Grant expected a little more understanding and has mumbled about injuries
after games. But proof that Hitzlsperger is the spark to set West Ham alight
will be needed before the doubts about West Ham's prospects are dismissed.

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West Ham new boy Ruud Boffin warns Robert Green: I want your place in the
team
Last updated at 11:11 AM on 8th September 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham new boy Ruud Boffin insists he has started as he means to go on
after keeping a clean sheet on his Hammers debut. The 22-year-old Belgian
signed a last-gasp deadline day deal at Upton Park after 58 games for Dutch
side MVV. After turning out for the reserves last night in a 1-0 win, Boffin
is starting to feel more at home in England and is now ready to challenge
Robert Green for the No1 shirt. Boffin does not feel intimidated by the
prospect of playing in the Premier League and insisted: 'I am very happy to
be here - It is a great opportunity for me to come and play. 'I had been
training here before at Chadwell Heath. I was here for four days and I had a
game. 'Things then happened very quickly on the day I signed and we had just
two-and-a-half hours for the paperwork. I had to wait until the last day,
but it all happened.' He added on the West Ham website: 'I like the
atmosphere here and it is a very nice group. 'I will learn a lot from
playing with Robert and under [goalkeeping coach] David Coles. It is going
to be a big challenge for me but I am ready.'

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Grant may have to opt out of Stoke clash
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
September 8, 2010
ESPN

West Ham have informed ESPN soccernet that Avram Grant is currently deciding
whether he will opt out of the Premier League game at Stoke next week
because of his deep religious beliefs. Grant would normally observe the
holiest day in the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur. The day involves a strict
25-hour fast from working, eating and even drinking water, and work of any
form is forbidden - even small tasks such as switching on a light bulb or
taking a train are not allowed. That would mean he would miss the game at
the Britannia Stadium a week on Saturday, which the Hammers will be
desperate to take at least a point from given that it comes between matches
against Chelsea and Tottenham. However, an ESPNsoccernet source at Upton
Park said: "Avram has not made up his mind just yet."
West Ham are currently bottom of the Premier League after failing to take a
point from their opening three games.

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McCarthy winning battle of the bulge
By Harry Harris, Football Correspondent
September 8, 2010
ESPN

West Ham United striker Benni McCarthy has lost 7kg during the international
break and is closing in on full fitness. McCarthy, 32, joined West Ham from
Blackburn in February but he made little impact during the run-in and, after
putting on weight, he failed to make South Africa's World Cup squad.
However, after he was warned he may not be paid if he failed to shed some
pounds, McCarthy is now in line for a comeback. Hammers co-owner David
Sullivan told ESPNsoccernet: "Everyone at the club is extremely pleased that
Benni has trained extremely hard since returning to the club. He's lost
nearly 7kg of weight and we are all confident he'll have a major impact on
the pitch this season. He is eager to play his first 90 minutes."
McCarthy may feature against Stoke a week on Saturday or the Carling Cup tie
against Sunderland the following Tuesday. Only two weeks ago, Sullivan had
warned: "It's like a jockey being overweight. He can't ride a horse and
no-one is going to pay him. I think we are fully within our rights to say,
'You are not honouring your side of the contract'. "We are not being
unrealistic. We've given him a target of losing a kilo a week. He has to
lose five or six more kilos. He is training very hard so he must be eating
or drinking something very wrong. Short of spending 24 hours with him, we
have to assume that. "You expect him to turn up in a state to be a
footballer. We are not starving him. It's just, 'Don't eat ice cream, don't
eat cakes, don't drink wine'."

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LORD COE LIFT FOR WEST HAM
Thursday September 9,2010
By Gideon Brooks
Daily Express

WEST HAM received a boost from Lord Coe yesterday in their bid to take over
the Olympic Stadium in Stratford after the 2012 Games. The Hammers will find
out before Christmas if they have been successful but Coe, chairman of the
London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games ( LOCOG), said if it was
up to him he would be happy to hand the club a set of keys now. Coe, who had
welcomed West Ham's bid last month after the club's owners agreed to drop
plans to rip up the running track, admitted the Upton Park club were "not
the only game in town".

According to Coe, the Olympic Park Legacy Company is assessing a number of
offers in order to form a multiple tenancy arrangement from both sports and
entertainment sectors. However, Coe said talks were expected to deliver a
decision in the next "two or three months" and that he supported West Ham's
bid.
"I would welcome it," he said yesterday. "I was never naive enough to
believe that track and field [alone] could support an 80,000-seater stadium
and the whole point was not to lumber east London with a stadium that nobody
had a use for. "The Olympic Park Legacy Company are currently talking to
Newham Council, talking to West Ham and talking to a plethora of other
organisations that have shown interest at one level or another so I know
that West Ham are not the only game in town. But the owners of West Ham have
expressed a real understanding that the community wants to have a footprint
here and I have no problems with track and field living alongside football."

West Ham and Newham Council confirmed their joint bid in March this year and
will submit their official proposal for the right to lease the stadium on a
long-term commercial basis before the deadline at the end of this month.
Should it succeed, the club's owners will have to agree to finance some
necessary modifications to the stadium. "This would not come at no cost to
West Ham," said Coe. "There would be things that they will need to do to
reconfigure the stadium such as installing catering facilities inside the
stadium. "It has not been designed as a football stadium in order not to
saddle future tenants with things they didn't necessarily want. But the
primary objective all along was to make sure we were not going to be left
with a white elephant."

New Hammers signing Victor Obinna, 23, yesterday maintained he was also
looking for a similarly lasting legacy in east London beyond his season-long
loan deal. Nigeria international Obinna, who arrived from Serie A giants
Inter Milan last month, could be in line to make his debut against Chelsea
at Upton Park on Saturday. Despite West Ham being rooted to the foot of the
table with no points after three games, Obinna believes from what he has
seen in training so far they will soon be moving up the table. "I know about
the club and the expectation here but I believe West Ham have a good team.
Last season they played well at times but unfortunately didn't always get
the results," he said. "I believe it will take a little time but we will be
back and showing what we can do. It is going to be exciting and I can't wait
to play for the fans. "If I can play against Chelsea, it will be a massive
game for me. I know what derby matches mean for the fans and I'm sure the
atmosphere will be fantastic. I cannot wait."

Manager Avram Grant, already under pressure after a dismal start to the
season, has been boosted by the news that three key players are in line for
a return this Saturday. Defenders Tal Ben Haim, Winston Reid and midfielder
Valon Behrami have all recovered from injuries and are in contention to face
Chelsea. Goalkeeper Robert Green, who missed England's two European
Championship qualifiers with a groin problem, will also be available. Danny
Gabbidon (hamstring) and Thomas Hitzlsperger (thigh) remain on the
sidelines.

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West Ham striker Nouble open to loan move away
09.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United striker Frank Nouble is open to a loan move away. The
England U19 international has been impressive in preseason and friendly
action.
Nouble told whufc.com: "Maybe I'll go out on loan again. I think I've
acquitted myself well over the summer, going away with England and doing
well. Since I've come back, I've done all right, so now it's a case of
continuing to do well whether I go out on loan or stick around and get a
place in the squad now and then. It's just about playing, really."

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Sporting Lisbon set to snap up ex-West Ham striker Franco
08.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Sporting Lisbon are moving for released West Ham United striker Guillermo
Franco. The Mexico international is a free agent after coming off contract
at West Ham in June. Franco was in talks with Wigan Athletic and trained
with the Premier League club leading up to transfer deadline day. But a deal
could not be struck. A Bola says Sporting have now made a move for the
ex-Villarreal star.

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Aris contract offer for ex-West Ham trialist Aliadiere
08.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United trialist Jeremie Aliadiere has been offered a move to
Greece. The former Arsenal striker is doing rehab at Middlesbrough after
suffering a serious injury in tests at West Ham during the summer. France
Football says Aris have been in touch with Aliadiere's minders about a move
to Greece this week.

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Daily WHUFC News - 8th September 2010

Jacobsen and Ben Haim play
WHUFC.com
The club's two newest defensive recruits were both on international duty and
neither conceded
07.09.2010

Lars Jacobsen and Tal Ben Haim will have given Avram Grant plenty to think
about for Saturday's visit of Chelsea with both defenders getting a
much-needed 90 minutes in the latest round of UEFA Euro 2012 qualifiers.
Denmark right-back Jacobsen helped his country to a 1-0 home win against
Iceland in Copenhagen, although they had to wait until an added-time goal
from Thomas Kahlenberg. In Georgia, Also on Tuesday night, Ben Haim helped
his side keep a clean sheet with Israel's goalless draw in Georgia. It was
his second full game in five days after a 3-1 home win against Malta last
Friday. Elsewhere, Matthew Upson and Carlton Cole were not used by England
in their 3-1 win in Switzerland, who were themselves without Valon Behrami
because he is focused on club duty. Pablo Barrera could play his second game
in quick succession for Mexico overnight as they take on Colombia in a
friendly in Monterrey.

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Boffin eager to shine
WHUFC.com
The club's new goalkeeping recruit is happy to finally be a West Ham United
player
07.09.2010

Ruud Boffin is ready to take the next step in his career and prove himself
at West Ham United. The 22-year-old Belgian has received promising notices
as an emerging shot-stopper in Dutch football, spending the latter part of
last season at Eredivisie outfit VVV-Venlo on loan from MVV Maastricht. He
headed to Chadwell Heath for a short trial earlier this summer - including a
reserve-team run-out - and was subsequently signed on a two-year contract on
deadline day. "I am very happy to be here," said the club's towering new
No31, who was impressive in the 1-0 reserve friendly win against Leicester
City on Tuesday. "It is a great opportunity for me to come and play here. "I
had been training here before at Chadwell Heath. I was here for four days
and I had a game. Things then happened very quickly on the day I signed and
we had just two and a half hours for the paperwork. I had to wait until the
last day but it all happened."

Boffin will provide competition for Robert Green and Marek Stech, and is
hoping to settle quickly in order to give himself the best chance to make an
impact. "For me it is no problem to move to London. It is a great city and
also my wife and my six-week-old boy are going to come here and live with
me. I am in a hotel now so it is not so good for them but we will all
settle quickly." "I like the atmosphere here and it is a very nice group. I
will learn a lot from playing with Robert and under [goalkeeping coach]
David Coles. It is going to be a big challenge for me but I am ready."

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Frank downs Foxes
WHUFC.com
Frank Nouble's first-minute goal saw West Ham United reserves win at
Leicester City on Tuesday
07.09.2010

Frank Nouble struck after just 20 seconds to secure West Ham United reserves
a hard-fought friendly victory at Leicester City on Tuesday. Latecomers to
the Foxes' Belvoir Drive training ground would have missed all the action as
Nouble started and finished a move to score the only goal of the game in the
very first minute. A Leicester midfielder slipped, allowing the England
Under-19 forward to pick up possession midway inside the home half. Nouble
then swapped passes with strike partner Freddie Sears before sending an
unstoppable shot into the roof of the net from 12 yards. With new signing
Ruud Boffin in goal and first-team squad members Radoslav Kovac and Junior
Stanislas in midfield, the Hammers were handed a stern test by their hosts -
managed by former West Ham full-back Chris Powell. Boffin was regularly
called into action in the early stages, racing from his goal on a number of
occasions to make catches or to kick or punch the ball clear of his penalty
area. The tall Belgian also showed assured handling when one well-struck
bouncing shot was struck towards his goal from 25 yards. When Boffin was
beaten, left-back Jordan Brown was in the right place to block following a
superb left-wing cross from Leicester's left winger. In the centre, captain
Jordan Spence and Sergio Sanchez worked hard to repel the home side. West
Ham gradually worked their way back into things and enjoyed a strong 15
minutes as half-time approached, with Olly Lee seeing one effort blocked
following a swift counter-attack involving the lightning-quick Sears.

Into the second half and Alex Dyer's side began to take control of
proceedings, with both Sears and Ahmed Abdulla going close, but it was not
long before Leicester came on strongly again in an attempt to salvage
something from the game. Boffin was again heavily involved as the half wore
on, making one fine save to deny Leicester's No9 from point-blank range. The
former PSV Eindhoven man also showed his aerial prowess to deal with a
succession of crosses and corners into his box, as well as a defensive
header from Sanchez. Leicester's best chance also fell to the No9 with 17
minutes remaining. The striker looked odds-on to equalise when he burst
between Sanchez and captain Spence, only to poke his shot past the
goalkeeper and on to the base of the post.
Boffin made a last-minute save to keep out a deflected low shot from a Foxes
substitute before punching the resulting corner confidently clear to
complete an encouraging full debut for the club. Dyer's reserves will begin
their Barclays Premier Reserve League campaign with a trip to Everton on
Tuesday 14 September.

West Ham United reserves: Boffin, Modelski, Spence, Sanchez, Brown, Kovac,
Abdulla (Montano 67, Moncur 69), Lee, Stanislas, Nouble, Sears
Unused subs: Cowler, Craig, Lletget

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Jacobsen aims to prove fitness
New defender looks for West Ham boost while on international duty
By Ben Collins Last updated: 7th September 2010
SSN

Lars Jacobsen is hoping to put himself in contention for a West Ham debut
when he features for Denmark on Tuesday night. The Danes kick off their Euro
2012 qualifying campaign at home to Iceland, with Jacobsenset to make only
his second appearance of the season having played in just a Carling Cup game
so far for Blackburn. The 30-year-old defender fell down the pecking order
at Ewood Park but is now looking to make a fresh start having secured a
deadline-day move to West Ham and hopes to make his Hammers bow at home to
Chelsea on Saturday. "We are playing at home against Iceland and most people
expect us to win, we expect that ourselves," Jacobsen told West Ham's
official website. "It is important to get off to a good start. We really
want to put three points on the board, it is very important for us. "I have
only played one Carling Cup match since the season started and was on the
bench for the Premier League matches. "It is a good opportunity to get a
full 90 minutes to help me for what I need to do with West Ham."

Jacobsen joined Blackburn on a free transfer from Everton last summer and
became frustrated with their direct style. While the full-back accepts some
teams have to play to their strengths to survive in England's top flight, he
feels West Ham will be better suited to his game after joining them on a
free transfer. "That was what I was used to, keeping the ball on the ground
and playing out from the back," he said. "Of course, you cannot be naïve,
especially in the Premier League and there are many different styles. "The
way West Ham play is how I want to play and get the most out of my ability."

Jacobsen played in his native Denmark and Germany before joining Everton in
2008 and then Blackburn last summer. Despite making just 18 Premier League
appearances in two years, he wanted to stay in England and is relishing the
chance to play at Upton Park. "I am delighted to have signed and looking
forward to play for West Ham," he said. "It is a bonus as well to get the
opportunity to live in such a great city as London. "West Ham excited me. My
first priority was to stay in England. I am happy here and so are my family.
I could have gone to another country but I preferred to stay in the Premier
League and West Ham have given me that opportunity. It would be nice to stay
here a long time."

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Petrovic backing Hammers
Assistant boss believes Upton Park outfit have the quality to stay up
Last updated: 7th September 2010
SSN

Zeljko Petrovic has backed West Ham to survive the dreaded drop this season.
The Hammers assistant manager believes the club must aim to make steady
progress under new boss Avram Grant. Petrovic, who joined the club just
before the new season feels, the Upton Park hierarchy must not panic with
the team's current run of poor form. The 44-year-old is in no doubt that the
quality at the club will eventually shine through under the guidance of
Grant. However, Petrovic says the current management must ensure the club's
survival before they can contemplate thinking about building for the future.
"We have a good team, we have a good squad and they are good professionals,"
Petrovic said. "They have a fantastic attitude but it is important for us
all to believe. "This club needs to survive one year and then from next year
make a step forward. This is what I hear from Avram and he is right. "I am
very happy and proud to be here at West Ham. It is a big name in Europe with
a fantastic academy. "It is a very famous club. It is very easy to be a
coach or manager here because everyone here helps you for success and for
the club. "You can be the best coach in the world but when the kit men, or
the kitchen staff are not together to form one team you don't have success.
"Everybody here and at the stadium is together at West Ham. We have to all
help the manager to achieve his targets."

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Hammers get Green for Go
The Sun
By ANDREW DILLON
Published: Today

ROBERT GREEN handed West Ham a boost as he returned to training yesterday
after a groin op. And Hammers owners David Gold and David Sullivan are to
put their faith in the former England No 1 by offering him a new deal.
Green, 30, should be fit for Saturday's clash at home to leaders Chelsea
after having minor surgery last week to repair a niggling injury. He has
more than two years left on his contract, worth £35,000 a week. And Sullivan
said: "We want to sit down with him in the summer and talk to him about
extending it even further as a sign of our commitment to him." Hammers
new-boy Thomas Hitzlsperger is out of the Chelsea clash after failing to
recover from his thigh injury.

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Player Of The Month - August
Vinny - Mon Sep 6 2010
West Ham Online

PLAYER OF THE MONTH - AUGUST

Kieron Dyer 51%
Mark Noble 25%
Pablo Barerra 14%
Scott Parker 7%

Games In August

Aston Villa (a)
Bolton Wanderers (h)
Oxford United (h)
Manchester United (a)

It has been a dismal start to the season with few postives taken from any of
the four games during August. There has been one glimmer of hope and that
has been the form and fitness of Kieron Dyer. That's right, I said fitness,
meaning that the injury prone Dyer is currently not injured and showing us
slowly but surely what he can do. He started two of the four games with
those two coming in the Premiership. This is the first time he has started
two games in a row during his time at club. He may be 31 years old but his
pace is certainly not gone and what we have seen so far is him regaining his
form which can only be a positive thing for the club. We all know that when
Dyer is fit he is a starter and although he may have been signed to play in
a more central role his use on the wing with his ability to beat players is
going to be important this season. He has hit the post both of the games he
has played in. The first was against Bolton when a great through ball from
Scott Parker saw Dyer burst into the area but he was denied by the woodwork
just as he was at Old Trafford when his shot hit the same post and went
wide. Goals from midfield is something we need this season given our lack of
firepower so hopefully it will be Dyer who will weigh in with a few as he
has done throughout his career. If Dyer can keep fit and continue his way
back to form he will be a key player in our fight for survial. In second
place was Mark Noble who has performed well and started every game scoring a
goal from the penalty spot against Bolton and putting in a dominating
display against Oxford. New signing Pablo Barrera has also impressed and was
in third place.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham new boy didn't enjoy Blackburn style of football
07.09.10 | Ian Ferris
07.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Lars Jacobsen fell down the pecking order at Blackburn Rovers but is now
looking to make a fresh start having secured a deadline-day move to West Ham
and hopes to make his Hammers bow at home to Chelsea on Saturday. The 30
year old joined Blackburn on a free transfer from Everton last summer and
became frustrated with their direct style. While the full-back accepts some
teams have to play to their strengths to survive in England's top flight, he
feels West Ham will be better suited to his game after joining them on a
free transfer. "That was what I was used to, keeping the ball on the ground
and playing out from the back," he told the club's official website. "Of
course, you cannot be naïve, especially in the Premier League and there are
many different styles.
"The way West Ham play is how I want to play and get the most out of my
ability."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Chelsea confident Lampard and Terry will be right for West Ham
08.09.10 | Andrew Slevison
08.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is confident that two of his key players
will be available to take on West Ham United this weekend. Midfielder Frank
Lampard and defender John Terry both missed England's Euro2012 qualifier
with Switzerland on Tuesday due to injury but Ancelotti expects them to be
able to take their place at Upton Park as the Blues try to maintain their
perfect Premier League record so far this term. "Lampard had (hernia)
surgery on Tuesday and I think that he will start to train this week," he
said. "I don't know when but we will see how he trains and we will take a
decision for the game against West Ham. "Terry didn't have surgery but he
used the last week to improve his hamstring. "He will start to train with
the squad this week, maybe Tuesday, and I think he will be able to play
against West Ham."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Petrovic: No doubting West Ham unity
08.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Zeljko Petrovic is delighted to be with West Ham United this season.
Petrovic quietly slipped in at Upton Park as manager Avram Grant's new No2
over the summer. "We have a good team, we have a good squad and they are
good professionals," he told whufc.com. "They have a fantastic attitude but
it is important for us all to believe. This club needs to survive one year
and then from next year make a step forward. This is what I hear from Avram
and he is right. "You can be the best coach in the world but when the kit
men, or the kitchen staff are not together to form one team you don't have
success. Everybody here and at the stadium is together at West Ham. We have
to all help the manager to achieve his targets. I am here in my role to
support the manager to achieve this."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham's Reid to play in NZ friendlies
08.09.10 | Andrew Slevison
08.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

West Ham United defender Winston Reid will play for New Zealand in two
friendlies next month according to New Zealand Football chief Michael
Glading.
The All Whites meet Honduras in Auckland on October 9 and then Paraguay
three days later in Wellington and Glading has confirmed Reid would be in
town for the matches despite reports suggesting otherwise. "Absolutely,
Winston has been cleared by his club and is coming," Glading said. "It has
been more speculation than facts, and the facts are he has been cleared by
his club and he is keen to come. Again, that is exactly as we expected it to
be played out."
NZ skipper Ryan Nelsen, who doubles as captain of West Ham's English Premier
League rivals Blackburn Rovers, has already stated his intent to play in the
double-header.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 7th September 2010

Squad focused on Chelsea
WHUFC.com
Chadwell Heath promises to be a busy place this week as preparations are
made for Chelsea
04.09.2010

Avram Grant has been putting his players through their paces again at the
start of a busy week that will culminate in Saturday's showdown with
Chelsea.
Nearly all the squad were reporting back to Chadwell Heath early this week,
including new signings Victor Obinna and Ruud Boffin, who have been handed
the No33 and No31 shirts respectively. Those players missing included fellow
new recruit Lars Jacobsen, who has been given No37, Matthew Upson, Pablo
Barrera and Carlton Cole, with international commitments still to fulfil.
Robert Green was among those in action again, having had a successful minor
procedure last week that caused him to miss a few days. Winston Reid and
Valon Behrami also appear to be over respective issues while Thomas
Hitzlsperger has stepped up his comeback from a thigh problem and is doing
running drills. Head of Sports Science and Sports Medicine Andy Rolls has
updated whufc.com on the general squad situation in terms of fitness for the
four long-term injuries - namely Jack Collison, Zavon Hines, Peter Kurucz
and Anthony Edgar. "Jack is working hard and progressing well in building up
the muscle bulk in his knee very well," he said. "He is doing long hours in
the gym and, even if it is sometimes a bit laborious, he is approaching his
rehabilitation very positively. "Zavon is doing strength work as he recovers
from his knee injury and is also progressing well. "Peter has undergone
anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery, spending a night in
hospital. It went very well. Peter is now regaining full strength and
movement and has begun light strengthening exercises. He will be assessed by
his surgeon again in six weeks.
"Unfortunately, Anthony Edgar sustained a serious knee injury in a
reserve-team friendly at Queens Park Rangers on 24 August. Anthony underwent
surgery earlier this week."

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Moncur moving up
WHUFC.com
Academy midfielder George Moncur has signed his first professional contract
with West Ham United
06.09.2010

George Moncur has moved a step closer to following in his famous father's
footsteps by signing his first professional contract with West Ham United.
The all-action midfielder and son of former Hammers star John Moncur has
been rewarded for his promise, commitment and ability with a three-year
deal.
The younger Moncur, who only turned 17 in August, has made rapid strides in
the past year, establishing himself as a regular in Academy Director Tony
Carr's Under-18 side and forcing his way into Alex Dyer's reserve team.

While his first professional contract has put a huge smile on Moncur's face,
the teenager knows neither his Dad nor his coaches will let him rest on his
laurels. "I am very pleased. I've started off the season well and I'll try
and carry that on now I've got my contract," he told whufc.com "I found out
a couple of weeks ago when Alex Dyer had a word with me after training. I
told my Dad and he was really happy and told me to work hard and keep doing
well.
"It helps so much to have a Dad who has been through the same experiences
himself. He tells me lots and I've just got to take it all on board and
listen to what he says."

Moncur has made rapid progress through the Academy ranks since moving to
Little Heath from London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at the age of 13. A big
fan of Arsenal and Spain star Cesc Fabregas, the youngster is a
multi-talented midfield player blessed with good vision, a fine passing
range and an eye for goal.
While he is blessed with a wide variety of attributes, Moncur himself
recognises the need to knuckle down and make the most of his ability.
"I've got to just keep working hard. I want to be a regular in the reserve
team this season and keep progressing. I love it at West Ham and I just want
to keep doing well for the club." "I'm just grateful that Tony and Alex have
had the confidence in me and recognised my ability. Now it's up to me to
repay them."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Dyer takes August prize
WHUFC.com
The SBOBET player of the month for August was overwhelmingly won by
midfielder Kieron Dyer
06.09.2010

Kieron Dyer has been voted the SBOBET player of the month for August. The
midfielder was the overwhelming winner with 42 per cent of the vote, beating
Scott Parker into second place with 24 per cent. Mark Noble was third on 18
per cent. It is the first time Dyer has claimed the monthly prize, which was
last won by Manuel da Costa for his performances in May at the end of last
season. Dyer was the overwhelming choice after his startling return to form
and fitness, and has been unlucky not to score in his last two league
run-outs against Bolton Wanderers and Manchester United. The No7 has been
quick to thank the medical staff who have helped him return to action, but
was also eager to acknowledge the strong support he has received from the
Hammers faithful in the early matches this season. "We were losing 2-0 to
Bolton when I came off and they gave me a standing ovation and that meant a
lot to me," he said. "Again, even though we were losing 3-0 they were
out-singing the Man United fans and pretending to celebrate a goal being
scored. That's just how they are - they are a different gear and my message
to them is 'We will start winning eventually and we'll get up that league
table'."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
International loss for Ilunga
WHUFC.com
Hammers left-back Herita Ilunga's hopes of reaching the 2012 Africa Cup of
Nations have been dented
06.09.2010

Herita Ilunga's DR Congo began their 2012 CAF Africa Cup of Nations quest
with a disappointing home defeat by Senegal on Sunday. The Leopards lost 4-2
in Kinshasha, but were actually 3-0 down by the 19th minute with Mame Nianga
and Senegalese captain Mahamdou Niang scoring twice. Pataou Kabangu reduced
the deficit just before half-time but Niang completed his hat-trick after
the break before Kabangu struck a late consolation second. It was a
difficult day for the Congolese, under new coach Robert Nourazert, in a
match played in temperatures approaching 40 degree heat. Group E favourites
Cameroon had won 3-1 against Mauritius the day before, meaning Ilunga's side
face a difficult battle to keep pace with their more illustrious rivals. DR
Congo are next in action next month when they travel to Yaounde to face
Cameroon.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lars looking forward
WHUFC.com
West Ham United will feel the benefit should Lars Jacobsen get off to a
winning UEFA Euro 2012 start
07.09.2010

Lars Jacobsen will be back in action for Denmark tonight to kick-start their
UEFA Euro 2012 campaign but will be eager to return to club duties as a new
Hammer. The deadline-day signing from Blackburn Rovers is fully focused on
the task at hand, namely a home match with Iceland that will set the tone
for hopes of making it to another major finals. Jacobsen was part of a
Danish side that played three games at the 2010 FIFA World Cup but failed as
a squad, like many, to meet expectation. "We are playing at home against
Iceland and most people expect us to win, we expect that ourselves,"
Jacobson told whufc.com. "It is important to get off to a good start. We
really want to put three points on the board, it is very important for us."

Jacobsen was keen to stress that a good showing was also "important for me"
before Saturday's date with Chelsea, adding: "I have only played one Carling
Cup match since the season started and was on the bench for the Premier
League matches. It is a good opportunity to get a full 90 minutes to help me
for what I need to do with West Ham."

The right-back became available in the last fortnight of the transfer
window, with Rovers clearly over-stocked in that position and the Danish
defender eager to start afresh. He said swapping Blackburn for the Boleyn
would give him the opportunity to return to playing the sort of "passing
football that suits me really well".

He explained that the direct style employed at Ewood was effective but not
always conducive to the way he had been schooled at the all-conquering FC
Copenhagen back home and in Europe, as well as in dozens of matches for the
national team. "That was what I was used to, keeping the ball on the ground
and playing out from the back. Of course you cannot be naïve, especially in
the Premier League and there are many different styles. The way West Ham
play is how I want to play and get the most out of my ability."

Of the frenetic activity a week ago that led to this new outlook, he
admitted it had "been a bit weird" signing in such whirlwind fashion and
then immediately going on international duty. He is not complaining, though,
as he is thinking long-term for his wife and young son and is eager for the
chance to truly settle at a club in England "I had been aware of the
interest for a couple of weeks, but it all came down to the last day [of the
transfer window]. I am just happy and delighted to have signed and looking
forward to play for West Ham. It is a bonus as well to get the opportunity
to live in such a great city as London
"West Ham excited me. My first priority was to stay in England. I am happy
here and so are my family. I could have gone to another country but I
preferred to stay in the Premier League and West Ham have given me that
opportunity. It would be nice to be here a long time."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Petrovic first on WHUTV
WHUFC.com
The assistant manager remains in upbeat mood in the first few months of his
time at West Ham United
07.09.2010

Zeljko Petrovic has given his first interview to WHUTV and spoken about his
happiness and pride at being at West Ham United. The assistant manager
joined the club just before the new season with the aim of supporting Avram
Grant and his coaching staff with his considerable experience on and off the
pitch. The 44-year-old describes "football as my life" and is in no doubt
that there is quality in the ranks at Chadwell Heath. "We have a good team,
we have a good squad and they are good professionals," he said. "They have a
fantastic attitude but it is important for us all to believe. This club
needs to survive one year and then from next year make a step forward. This
is what I hear from Avram and he is right."

Petrovic also said luck had not been on the team's side in the opening
fixtures but reiterated that belief was necessary to turn the corner. He had
no doubt that better times would be around the corner for a club that has
long loomed large in his consciousness. "I am very happy and proud to be
here at West Ham. It is a big name in Europe with a fantastic Academy. It is
very famous club. It is very easy to be a coach or manager here because
everyone here helps you for success and for the club. "You can be the best
coach in the world but when the kit men, or the kitchen staff are not
together to form one team you don't have success. Everybody here and at the
stadium is together at West Ham. We have to all help the manager to achieve
his targets. I am here in my role to support the manager to achieve this."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Moncur inks Hammers deal
Youngster follows in his father's footsteps
Last updated: 6th September 2010
SSN

West Ham youngster George Moncur has signed his first professional contract
with the club. Mocur follows in the footsteps of his father, former Hammers
star John Moncur, by signing a deal with West Ham and the 17-year-old has
been rewarded for his displays for the under 18s and Alex Dyer's reserve
team with a two-year deal. The teenager was delighted to win a professional
contract and he admits he has learned a lot from his father. "I found out a
couple of weeks ago when Alex Dyer had a word with me after training,"
Moncur told the club's official website. "I told my Dad and he was really
happy and told me to work hard and keep doing well. "It helps so much to
have a dad who has been through the same experiences himself. He tells me
lots and I've just got to take it all on board and listen to what he says."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Behrami committed to Hammers
Swiss ace wanted move for personal reasons
Last updated: 6th September 2010
SSN

Valon Behrami insists he remains committed to the club despite seeing a move
to Italy fall through. The Swiss ace was strongly linked with a switch to
Italy during the transfer window, but any move failed to materialise.
Behrami admits he only wanted to leave Upton Park because of personal
problems, but has now vowed to give his all for the club with the transfer
window now being closed. "I want to try to help everyone here, the people
who have helped me with a difficult moment [in my life]. Now we as a team
are in a difficult moment and first two years at West Ham. And they will
also do that for the third year," Behrami told the club's official website.
"They know I try to give 100 per cent, sometimes it was good, sometimes not
- but if we are all together I feel we can do something good this year. I
give everything. "I feel that the fans understand my situation and they will
help me like they did in my "The club knows I had a personal private problem
in my life. I tried to go back to Italy to solve this problem. We didn't
find the right solution and I am happy to stay here."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Jack hits the road to recovery
Author: Jonny Abrams
Posted on:06 September 2010 - 16:16
Sport.co.uk

West Ham United starlet Jack Collison hopes to be back in first team
contention at Upton Park by the beginning of 2011, asserting strongly that
he cannot wait to make his Irons return. Appearing as a guest on Sky Sports
programme Soccer AM, the 22 year-old Wales midfielder talked optimistically
about his recovery from a long-standing knee problem, as well as what he's
been up to during his protracted absence from the Hammers squad. Collison,
who also spoke of his disappointment at the firing of Gianfranco Zola at the
end of last summer, hasn't appeared in a West Ham jersey since February and
his return to the fold would represent a major boost for Avram Grant's
struggling side. He said: "I'm hoping to be back around Christmas time. I
had an operation about four months ago to stabilise my kneecap and to have a
bit of a tidy up. "I did it properly at Wigan , tried to play on and had a
little trouble with it, and eventually it came to this. "But fingers
crossed, it's gone really well so far. I should be back around Christmas and
I'm looking forward to getting back into the action. "It was nice to get it
sorted out - now I'm confident on it and rehab has gone really well. I just
can't wait to get back out on the pitch. "Luckily my mum looked after me. I
moved back in with her, which was nice. I managed to get quite good at FIFA
and watched a lot of DVDs! "I just tried to get through it as quick as I
could, to be honest. Obviously [I've been out for] a long time but I want to
come back and play. "I had a little bit of work on the cartilage and, in one
of the knee operations, they stabbed little holes in it and made a new scar
- so it was quite complicated stuff. "But the machine [I was using]
smoothes out the scar and makes it alright."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
WEST HAM'S TRANSFER POLICY CONTINUES TO BEMUSE
Date: 6th September 2010 at 4:45 pm | Written by Jack Howlett
Football Fancast

When a player leaves a football club the views of fans are inevitably
polarised. For some he had more to offer while others will point to possible
replacements or the financial benefits. This scenario occurred at the tail
end of the transfer window at Upton Park when both Alessandro Diamanti and
Fabio Daprela were sold to Serie A yoyo team, Brescia. The inconsistent
Italian drew differing opinions from the supporters but the transfer of a
young, promising defender who had impressed in a handful of appearances was
met with utter bemusement. For the east London club this is far from a new
problem as former players seemingly go from strength to strength.

Signed from Zurich based Grasshoppers last summer for £1 million, the
Hammers sold Daprela last week for an undisclosed fee. The Swiss player who
had a spell at Juventus as a youngster was highly rated. At just 19-years
old the left-back was more authoritative when deputising for the injured
Herita Ilunga than Jonathan Spector. He made his senior debut in the FA Cup
third round tie against Arsenal earlier this year, giving an assured
performance which showed his defensive and attacking capabilities. He
impressed once more against Arsenal in the league, relishing the physical
side of the contest and rampaging down the left flank.

Diamanti was another of last summer's recruits, having been plucked newly
promoted Serie A side Livorno. The brazen forward asserted his influence
over penalties and all set pieces without hesitation. In doing so he
illustrated his technical skill and from open play he was highly exciting to
watch. In an arduous season that excitement did at times turn to
exasperation when his tricks and long range efforts brought no reward. Yet
for his inconsistency, he was hugely popular in some quarters and could
undoubtedly change the course of a game with a piece of unexpected
ingenuity. To the dismay of many, the club's second highest scorer of last
season was sold at a loss of £4 million.

West Ham have had a reputation as a selling club in recent times but there
was an inescapability about the eventual departures of exceptional talents
such as Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand and Michael Carrick. Barring Craig
Bellamy's switch to Manchester City, the club has not faced that concerted
pressure to sell in the past few years. But players have consistently been
sold at the wrong time. Paul Konchesky, now of Liverpool, was a reliable
full-back who practised the basics. Defensive duties were paramount but his
powerful left foot could have a telling impact, especially when he scored
against his new employers in the 2006 FA Cup final. A disagreement with Alan
Curbishley meant he was forced out in the summer of 2007.

Konchesky prospered at Craven Cottage where he was joined the following year
by Bobby Zamora. Having been deemed surplus to requirements, it would now be
challenging to find a fan who would not welcome him back to the Boleyn. Few
supporters would have expected to see Konchesky, Zamora and John Pantsil in
European action within a couple of years. Matthew Etherington is yet another
who left the club despite having a huge amount to offer. Signed in January
2009 for £2 million he was in imperious form for Stoke last season.
Invariably their man of the match, he showed energy, excellent wing play and
varied his delivery into the box.

The list arguably continues as the club has even missed previous captain
Lucas Neill who had leadership qualities and an aggressive, combative streak
to his game. The club's insistence on holding on to its core of Robert
Green, Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Carlton Cole has been to the
detriment of their transfer policy. Parker may rightly be considered
untouchable but the relentless focus on this England quartet has distracted
from arguments about the overall strength and balance of the team. The
departure of Diamanti and Daprela may be evidence of this but with six new
arrivals, it is time for the club to demonstrate that the balance of the
squad has been addressed.

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Like father like son! George Moncur signs first professional contract with
West Ham
By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 9:43 PM on 6th September 2010
Daily Mail

West Ham starlet George Moncur has signed his first professional contract
with the club. Moncur follows in the footsteps of his father John, by
signing a deal with West Ham and the 17-year-old has been given a two-year
deal. Midfielder Moncur told his club's official website: 'I found out a
couple of weeks ago when Alex Dyer had a word with me after training. 'I
told my dad and he was really happy and told me to work hard and keep doing
well. 'It helps so much to have a dad who has been through the same
experiences himself. He tells me lots and I've just got to take it all on
board and listen to what he says.'
Avram Grant's West Ham have had a terrible start to the season, and next
face the daunting task of taking on leaders Chelsea this weekend. Crewe and
Chelsea have agreed to extend the loan of goalkeeper Rhys Taylor until the
end of the season. The 20-year-old joined the League Two club on an initial
two-month deal as cover for Steve Phillips, who is recovering from shoulder
surgery. That deal was due to expire on Wednesday. Coventry City are set to
wrap up deals for Marlon King, 30, and Bolton's Danny Ward this week.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
AVRAM GRANT MAY MISS WEST HAM CRUNCH MATCH FOR YOM KIPPUR
The Star
7th September 2010 By James Masters

AVRAM GRANT may miss the game which could decide his West Ham future because
of a religious festival. Grant faces having to choose between sitting in the
dug-out for the club's vital clash with Stoke a week on Saturday or
observing the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. The Hammers boss is a devout
follower of the religion and would be required to observe a strict 25-hour
fast from working, eating and even drinking water. But this year that would
mean him missing the game at the Britannia Stadium – a match which the
Hammers may need to win to keep Grant in the Upton Park hot seat. The
55-year-old has watched his new side lose all three of their league games
and faces former club Chelsea at Upton Park this weekend.

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http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 6th September 2010

Barrera plays in Mexico loss
WHUFC.com
Hammers forward Pablo Barrera was part of a strong English-based attack as
Mexico lost a friendly
05.09.2010

Pablo Barrera played for 75 minutes as Mexico lost 2-1 at home to Ecuador in
an international friendly played in Guadalajara on Saturday night. The
Hammers forward was named in a strong starting lineup that also boasted
Fulham's Carlos Salcido, Manchester United's Javier Hernandez, Tottenham
Hotspur's Giovani dos Santos and Arsenal's Carlos Vela. Ecuador proved too
strong though and won through Cristian Benitez's double in the first and
58th minutes.

Mexico's consolation came via a Luis Checa own goal five minutes before
half-time but the North Americans were unable to find an equaliser against
their visitors from South America. Barrera could be back in action on
Tuesday when Mexico welcome Colombia to Monterrey on Tuesday.
Before then, Herita Ilunga's DR Congo will play host to Senegal in the
country's opening 2012 CAF Africa Cup of Nations Group E qualifier in
Lumbumbashi on Sunday. DR Congo will also face Cameroon and Mauritius in
qualifying.

England pair Matthew Upson and Carlton Cole will travel to Switzerland for
the UEFA Euro 2012 qualifier in Basel on Tuesday night. Neither featured in
the 18-man matchday squad when the Three Lions defeated Bulgaria 4-0 at
Wembley on Friday night. Valon Behrami is not with the Swiss as he focuses
on a club playing return.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Showdown for young duo
WHUFC.com
Two of the club's brightest prospects are due to meet in a major UEFA U21
Euro qualifier on Tuesday
05.09.2010

Hammers youngsters Holmar Orn Eyjolfsson and Marek Stech could go head to
head on Tuesday in a decisive UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifier.
The Group 5 match in Jablonec nad Nisou on Tuesday will see Iceland bidding
to reach the finals for the first time. Coached by centre-back Eyjolfsson's
father Eyjolfur Sverrisson, Iceland could clinch at least a play-off place
by beating the table-topping Czechs.

To do so, they may have to find their way past goalkeeper Marek Stech, who
was on the bench for the Czechs in their 1-1 draw against Germany in Mlada
Boleslav on Friday. That point left thems three points clear of Iceland
before the final fixture. Both Hammers are 20 and a firm fixture in Alex
Dyer's improving reserves.

The ten UEFA group winners and four runners-up with the best record against
the teams first, third, fourth and fifth in their sections advance to the
play-offs in October. The final tournament will be played between 11 and 25
June in Denmark next summer.

England - who have previously used James Tomkins, Junior Stanislas, Zavon
Hines and Freddie Sears in this qualifying campaign, have to beat Lithuania
on Tuesday to make sure of second spot in Group 9 and then hope they make
the play-offs as one of that quartet of best runners-up.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Slangwhanger Sulli slams slackers
KUMB.com
Filed: Sunday, 5th September 2010
By: Staff Writer

David Sullivan has accused some of West Ham's 'foreign legion' of failing to
give 100 per cent.

Sullivan, who has sanctioned the signing of eleven players - all foreign -
since he arrived at West Ham along with co-Chairman David Gold in January,
hit out at the un-named squad members in the wake of West Ham's awful start
to the 2010/11 campaign.

"We've got a few foreign players who wanted to leave but we didn't receive
any offers," he told the News of the World. "I think they couldn't be
bothered but now the deadline has passed they realise the only way out is to
play for the club and to play well and I think they will make a
contribution. They realise now that they are here until at least January so
they will get their heads down and work for the benefit of the club. They
had their heads in the air before that."

Sullivan - whose comments will almost certainly do little to galvanise a
squad already suffering from a woeful lack of confidence, as outlined
recently by Avram Grant, who confessed it would take considerable time to
rebuild prior to Sullivan's latest outburst - did however admit that he
expects the club's fortunes to change once their difficult run of opening
games are concluded - and once all of Grant's eight summer signings become
available.

"You can't judge a team after three games. It's very premature," he
insisted. "When you're building something it takes time and there have been
changes at all levels. The team that started against Manchester United was
the same team from last season because virtually all the new signings were
injured. You will find over the next few weeks that it won't be the team of
last season - but if players are performing well they will retain their
place. It's the manager's decision.

"Out of our new signings Victor Obinna didn't have international clearance,
Thomas Hitzlsperger and Winston Reid were injured, Tal Ben Haim was not
fully fit and Pablo Barrera was knackered after playing two full games in
the week after the World Cup. Now with our new players getting back and the
others back playing, you will see us get better game by game.

"The next three games are very, very tough. Chelsea at home, Stoke - who are
particularly good on their own ground - and Tottenham at home. Then the
season really starts with the Fulham game on October 2nd. But I hope to
surprise a few people against Chelsea, Stoke or Tottenham."

Despite the poor start - which also included a 1-0 win courtesy of Scott
Parker's injury time-winner against an Oxford side who were playing
non-league football last season - Sullivan maintained that new manager Avram
Grant continues to enjoy his full support, despite spurious claims to the
contrary in some media sources.

"The Bolton game was a major disappointment but it's early days. These
things happen," he added. "I haven't relayed any messages to Avram at all, I
just expect a gradual improvement in form; it's not all doom and gloom. He
inherited a very imbalanced squad. Over the next year he'll turn things
round. Results will gradually come. Avram is very, very confident about the
future.

"He'd love to have £30m-£40m to spend but what manager wouldn't? I've got
every confidence in the manager and every confidence in the team."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan - No Grant pressure
West Ham chief insists manager's job is safe
Last updated: 5th September 2010
SSN

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan insists Avram Grant is not under pressure
after just three games of the season. Some reports have claimed that
Sullivan and his co-owner David Gold, were considering Grant's position -
despite only appointing him in the summer. Grant succeeded Gianfranco Zola
in the summer, but he has endured a poor start with West Ham losing their
opening three games. But Sullivan says, Grant is not under any pressure from
him and that he has had to cope with a tough start. "I haven't relayed any
messages to Avram at all. I just expect a gradual improvement in form. It's
not all doom and gloom," he told the News of the World. "You can't judge a
team after three games. It's very premature. When you're building something
it takes time and there have been changes at all levels. "The next three
games are very, very tough. Chelsea at home, Stoke who are particularly good
on their own ground and Tottenham at home. "Three tough games and then the
season really starts with the Fulham game on October 2. But I hope to
surprise a few people against Chelsea, Stoke or Tottenham. "The Bolton game
was a major disappointment but it's early days. "There was a stage last
season where we lost six games in a row, these things happen. "He inherited
a very imbalanced squad. Over the next year he'll turn things round. Results
will gradually come. Avram is very, very confident about the future. "He'd
love to have £30m-£40m to spend but what manager wouldn't? "I've got every
confidence in the manager and every confidence in the team."

Foreign blast

Sullivan did, though, take a swipe at some of his squad, claiming some of
the 'foreign players' were not performing their best. "We've got a few
foreign players who wanted to leave but we didn't receive any offers," he
continued. "I think they couldn't be bothered but now the deadline has
passed they realise the only way out is to play for the club and to play
well and I think they will make a contribution. "They realise now that they
are here until at least January so they will get their heads down and work
for the benefit of the club. They had their heads in the air before that.
"The team that started against Man United was the same team from last season
because virtually all the new signings were injured. "You will find over the
next few weeks that it won't be the team of last season - but if players are
performing well they will retain their place. It's the manager's decision.
"Out of our new signings Victor Obinna didn't have international clearance,
Thomas Hitzlsperger was injured, Winston Reid has a torn muscle in his
buttocks, Tal Ben Haim was not fully fit and Pablo Barrera was knackered
after playing two full games in the week after the World Cup. Now with our
new players getting back and the others back playing, you will see us get
better game by game."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Sullivan gives his backing to Grant
Harry Harris
September 5, 2010
ESPN

West Ham United's co-owner David Sullivan has informed ESPNsoccernet that
Sunday newspaper speculation that Avram Grant has only three games left to
save his job are false. Bottom-of-the-table Hammers face the daunting
prospect of games against Chelsea, Stoke and Tottenham, and it is being
suggested that Grant will become the first Premier League boss to be axed if
all three games are lost. However Sullivan tells ESPNsoccernet that it is
wide of the mark to suggest that Grant only has three games left, or that
his managerial reign at Upton Park is already under review after the opening
three games, which have left West Ham without a point. The Hammers board
appreciate that the opening sequence of fixtures have been unkind to Grant's
new managerial job and that the next three games are among the most daunting
of the seasons, and that their team would be lucky to get a point, with
anything else as massive bonus. For the corresponding six games this season,
West Ham only got two points from the same games in 2009-10.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Hero – The Bobby Moore Story,' and Other Less Uplifting Matters!
West Ham Till I Die

It is not easy being a Hammers fan these days, so it is always nice to take
a short break, from the troubled 'here and now,' and head off on a welcome
trip down memory lane. One such opportunity is afforded to those that have
access to Sky Any Time. Up until Tuesday, 7 September, they are screening a
2002 ESPN Classic documentary entitled, 'Hero – The Bobby Moore Story,'
which is uplifting and compelling TV for all Hammers fans.

The programme documents Bobby's family background in Barking; his rise to
prominence for West Ham and England; his successful cancer treatment in the
1960s; his greatest club and international triumphs between 1964-66; the
victorious 1966 World Cup campaign; the defence of the trophy in 1970
(including the Bogota bracelet incident and that classic match with
Brazil); the sale to Fulham and 1975 FA Cup Final; the years of exclusion
from top club management and being largely ignored by the FA; and his
tragic, premature death in 1993.

The programme has some great clips of Bobby in action for West Ham and
England (at the old Upton Park and Wembley) that shows not only his
imperious defending and the odd goal or two scored, but also the on-pitch
presence, dignity and keen sense of humour of the man.

It includes interviews with Pele, George Best, Bobby Charlton, Malcolm
Allison, Noel Cantwell, Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Jimmy Greaves, Jackie
Charlton, Harry Redknapp, Terry Venables, Alan Ball, Alan Mullery, Mike
Summerbee and Jonathan Pearce. They hail Bobby Moore's greatness as a
defender and captain and confirm that his leadership was crucial in 1966 in
capturing the ultimate prize in world football. But they also talk of
Bobby's likeable personality and genuine, down to earth, modesty. His
personality is further explored in some very emotional, and heart felt,
interviews with his family and close friends like Jimmy Tarbuck.

It is a fine tribute to West Ham and England's greatest ever player and
captain. It must be good because it almost made me forget West Ham's
current troubles, if only for 60 minutes or so! You may already have seen
it, but check it out again, if you get a chance.

Now from the sublime to the ridiculous, some tabloids yesterday reported
that Avram Grant has just three matches to save his job! I do not believe
that things are at that stage, just yet. Grant is the appointment of the
new owners and they are likely to continue supporting him in the short term.
However, if we are still struggling in late November-early December, then I
have no doubt that the issue of a managerial change will then move up the
agenda.

David Sullivan was also reported yesterday as stating that certain of the
club's overseas players wanted a move from West Ham in the summer, but
acceptable offers were not forthcoming! He alleged that this had resulted
in those players showing an alleged lack of application and effort so far
this season. He correctly suggests that those players need to accept their
situation and play themselves in to a move in January! Ok, fair enough, but
what I do not understand is why a public statement needs to be made on this
matter. Surely it is best dealt with internally, by the manager and his
staff, in liaison with the board? I sincerely hope that this is not the
first of a new series of high profile and controversial public comments from
the board?

Finally, there were also reports that West Ham's proposed move for free
agent, Jeremie Aliadiere broke down because the player suffered a knee
injury in a trial match for the club. Apparently, West Ham have accepted
their responsibility for his medical expenses, but have denied that a deal
had been concluded. Much as I am very sorry for the player, being injured
and out of contract, the fact is that it is fortunate for the club that it
happened before he signed a contract, rather than afterwards. The last
thing we want is to pay the wages of another player with a long-term injury.
Tough, but true!

SJ. Chandos.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Blues expect Lampard to return against Hammers
Author: Andrew Allen
Posted on:05 September 2010 - 01:10 PM
Sport.co.uk

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti expects Frank Lampard to be fit for their next
Premier League game against West Ham United. The midfielder was forced to
miss England's Euro 2012 double-header against Bulgaria and Switzerland
following hernia surgery. Lampard was substituted during the 2-0 victory
over Stoke City on August 28 after reporting discomfort. The Chelsea medical
staff decided to send the 32-year-old for surgery during the two-week
international break and Lampard is now expected to be fit for their next
match on September 11. "For sure, Frank will be fit for the West Ham game,"
confirmed Ancelotti.
However, the Blues boss has denied suggestions that it was always their plan
to send Lampard for surgery during an international break. The Stamford
Bridge club have been accused of undermining England's Euro 2012 qualifying
bid. "No, we didn't decide at the start of the season to do this now,"
Ancelotti told the Daily Star Sunday. "After the Stoke game, Frank was in a
lot of pain. "So he decided, after talking to the club doctor, to resolve
and remove the problem immediately."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Aliadiere reveals why West Ham deal fell through
05.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Jeremie Aliadiere has revealed how a move to West Ham United fell through.
West Ham were keen on signing Aliadiere a month ago, but wanted ­evidence of
his fitness. So he was invited to play for the reserves against Crystal
Palace on a Monday night, but five minutes in, Aliadiere felt a searing pain
in his knee. "I had damaged my cruciate knee ligaments," he recalled. And
that meant the end of any ­possible revival of his career at Upton Park,
leaving Aliadiere clubless. He said: "There was a misunderstanding about the
deal. I was led to believe it had been agreed, but West Ham said it hadn't.
"I asked the PFA to help and they said that all the club were obliged to pay
was my medical expenses which they have."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collison: Grant a positive influence around West Ham
05.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

Jack Collison says Avram Grant is a positive influence at West Ham United.
The Wales midfielder hopes to be back in action for West Ham over Christmas.
On Grant, Collison told Soccer AM: "The new manager seems good. He's quite
friendly and comes over and says 'Hello'. At the moment I'm in getting
physio every day and it's nice being in and around the boys and being in the
mix. "I think they've all reacted really well to him. He's obviously
bringing in his own ideas and it's up to us to start picking up a few points
I think. "Obviously it's not a great start to the season and nobody wants to
start like that, but the new manager has come in and he's got his own ideas
of how he wants to play and maybe it's going to take a little while to
adapt. "It's only early doors and we've got a nice easy one next week
against Chelsea so hopefully we'll pick up some points there."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
West Ham youngster Sebastian Lletget pledges international future to USA
05.09.10 | tribalfootball.com

New West Ham United signing Sebastian Lletget has pledged his international
future to the USA. The teenage midfielder turned pro with West Ham last
week. Lletget told whufc.com: "The American style of play is very different
than the style of play in any other country. Spain, for example, is known
for the technical side, whereas Americans are known for their athleticism.
"For me, though, my favourite player was the US midfielder Claudio Reyna,
because he brought a different style to the game and I can relate to that.
"With my Italian heritage, Giuseppe Rossi is the player I look up to most
because he has come from a similar background to me, and is also a
similar-type player. It's my aim to make a name for myself like he has. "My
heart is in America, though, so if the chance ever arose to play for the
United States, I'd love that."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

http://vyperz.blogspot.com

Daily WHUFC News - 5th September 2010

Jack on track
WHUFC.com
Jack Collison is hoping to return to first-team action in time for the busy
festive season
04.09.2010

Jack Collison is targeting a happy Christmas as he continues his comeback
from a serious knee injury. West Ham United's talented midfielder has been
working hard after undergoing surgery in April, recently returning to
Chadwell Heath to take part in daily physiotherapy and rehabilitation
sessions. Speaking on Sky Sports' Soccer AM, the new No10 said he was aiming
to be back in first-team action in time for the busy festive season. "I'm
hoping to be back around Christmas time. I had an operation about four or
four-and-a-half months ago just to stabilise my kneecap and have a bit of a
tidy-up. "I knew it had been coming a little while. I'm not sure if you
remember but at Wigan I did it properly there, tried to play on and had a
little bit of trouble with it and eventually it's come to this. "Fingers
crossed, it's all gone really well so far and I should be back around
Christmas and I'm looking forward to getting back into the action. "It's
nice to get it sorted out. Now I'm confident in it and I can't wait to get
back out on the pitch."

Collison, who made 22 Barclays Premier League last season, scoring twice,
also described the painstaking treatment he underwent to build-up the
strength in his knee, including sitting on a continuous passive motion
machine for eight hours a day. "It was good fun! The first 12 weeks were a
bit boring but thankfully my Mum looks after me. I've moved back in with
her, which is nice. "Basically I had to move back home and laid down flat
and it moved my leg up and down for me. It was pretty lazy, but I managed to
get quite good at FIFA and watched quite a lot of DVDs! "I just tried to get
through it as quick as I can. Obviously it was a long time but I want to
come back. "I had a little bit of work on the cartilage and in one of the
operations they stabbed little holes in it and made a new scar. It's quite
complicated stuff, but the machine just smoothes out the scar and makes it
all right."

Moving on to football matters, Collison spoke positively when asked about
manager Avram Grant, suggesting that it will not be long before the Hammers
starting winning matches for their new boss. "The new manager seems good.
He's quite friendly and comes over and says 'Hello'. At the moment I'm in
getting physio every day and it's nice being in and around the boys and
being in the mix. "I think they've all reacted really well to him. He's
obviously bringing in his own ideas and it's up to us to start picking up a
few points I think. "Obviously it's not a great start to the season and
nobody wants to start like that, but the new manager has come in and he's
got his own ideas of how he wants to play and maybe it's going to take a
little while to adapt. "It's only early doors and we've got a nice easy one
next week against Chelsea so hopefully we'll pick up some points there."

While he is targeting a Christmas comeback in claret and blue, Collison also
has one eye on Wales' 2012 UEFA European Championship qualifying Group F
clash with England on 26 March next year. Born in Watford, the 21-year-old
qualified for Wales through his grandfather, scoring on his Under-21 debut
in a 4-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina in November 2007. Since making his
full debut against Iceland in May 2008, he has amassed seven senior caps.
"To be honest, at the time I wasn't really concentrating on international
football. I was trying to break into the West Ham first team and Brian Flynn
from the Wales Under-21s came down and asked if I wanted to go and play for
them and obviously I jumped at the opportunity and I've really enjoyed my
time. "I had a really good time with the Under-21s, but unfortunately it
seems every time I go away with the seniors I pick up an injury or
something, so I'm hoping to get my leg sorted and be back in time for the
England game in March."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collison laments Zola departure
KUMB.com
Filed: Saturday, 4th September 2010
By: Staff Writer

Young Hammers midfielder Jack Collison has admitted that he was disappointed
with the decision to fire Gianfranco Zola at the end of last season. The
22-year-old Welsh international, talking on Soccer AM this morning revealed
that he was sad to see the back of the Italian, who was fired by Karren
Brady following the culmination of the 2009/10 campaign. "He was the one who
gave me my big chance and I feel like I owe him a lot," said Collison. "He
took an interest in a lot of the young lads and for me it was great learning
off someone like him because he wasn't a bad player, was he? "He could still
play; he joined in during training and some of the stuff he would do was
pretty unbelievable. The first day in training we were playing two touch; he
got the ball, flicked it round the corner and dinked Rob Green. Everyone
just stood there and was like' whoa, what have we got here?'!

"He was really good. After training sometimes he'd take the boys for a
one-to-one session which was nice to see from a manager, you don't always
get that. He took a real interest. He let all the boys go out there and
express themselves, which was nice. It's just a shame what happened."

Collison - who last featured for the first team in February - recently
underwent an operation to solve a long-standing knee problem, from which he
expects to return at the beginning of 2011. "I'm hoping to be back around
Christmas time," he confirmed. "I had an operation about four months ago to
stabalise my knee cap and to have a bit of a tidy up. "I done it properly at
Wigan , tried to play on and had a little trouble with it - and eventually
it came to this. But fingers crossed, it's gone really well so far. I should
be back around Christmas and I'm looking forward to getting back into the
action. "It was nice to get it sorted out, now I'm confident on it and rehab
has gone really well. I just can't wait to get back out on the pitch.
Luckily my mum looked after me - I moved back in with her, which was nice; I
managed to get quite good at FIFA and watched a lot of DVDs! I just tried to
get through it as quick as I can to be honest. Obviously [I've been out] a
long time but I want to come back and play. "I had a little bit of work on
the cartilege and in one of the knee operations they stabbed little holes in
it and made a new scar, so it was quite complicated stuff. But the machine
[I was using] smooths out the scar and makes it alright."

And with regards to the club's poor start to the 2010/11 campaign - and
Zola's replacement, Avram Grant - he said: "The new manager seems good, he's
quite friendly, he comes over and says 'hello'. At the moment I'm in getting
physio every day so it's nice to be in and around the boys, to be in the
mix. But I think they've all reacted really well to him. Obviously he's
bringing in his own ideas and it's up to us now to start picking up a few
points. "Obviously it's not a great start to the season, no-one wants to
start like that. But the new manager's got his own ideas, the way he wants
to play and maybe it's going to take a little while to adapt. But it's only
early days - and we've got a nice easy one next week against Chelsea, so
hopefully we'll start picking up points there!"

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Lletget signs Hammers deal
Midfielder hoping to make impact at Upton Park
Last updated: 4th September 2010
SSN

Sebastian Lletget has celebrated his 18th birthday by putting pen to paper
on a professional contract with West Ham. Lletget was spotted by Hammers
scouts in California at the age of 13 and has trained on and off with the
Premier League club for the past four-and-a-half years. The attacking
midfielder is thrilled to have earned a deal at Upton Park and is now
looking forward to the next stage of his development. Reflecting on his
breakthrough moment as a youngster, Lletget told West Ham's official
website: "I started playing at a club back in San Francisco called Sporting
as Sporting Lisbon had brought their Academy over to the United States.
"It's a very competitive club, so that was my best chance of ever being seen
by a European club. "One day, I went to training as always and one of my
coaches, Carlos Brasil, had a friend called Mike Leigh who was a scout for
West Ham. "I played a game against an older team and did really well in
front of him. He said 'OK' and invited me over to England. "I came over when
I was 13 and trained with the youth team because the Under 16s were not in.
I had a great training session so they asked me to play that afternoon and I
scored a goal with my first touch. "After that game, I've been visiting and
training with the club ever since. I have now signed my professional
contract."

Lletget hopes to make an impact at West Ham but recognises that he will have
to stay patient before he breaks into Avram Grant's first-team plans. "In
the upcoming season, I really want to get established and comfortable and
play for the reserves, then maybe I'll get spotted by the manager," said
Lletget, who has Italian heritage but would like to play for the USA at
international level. "Now I have signed I don't want to rush things and put
extra pressure on myself," he said. "I'm just going to take it
step-by-step, day-by-day."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Roma still tracking Behrami
West Ham player remains on Italian club's radar
Last updated: 4th September 2010
SSN

Roma president Rosella Sensi has refused to rule out a swoop for Valon
Behrmai at later date after missing out on the West Ham player this summer.
The versatile Switzerland international was heavily linked with a move away
from Upton Park during the transfer window and Roma were one of several
interested clubs. A switch did not materialise but the Giallorossi later
admitted they had made a late attempt to prise Behrami away from the
Hammers.
Behrami has also admitted he is disappointed to be staying in London, but it
now seems Roma could renew their pursuit at some point in the future.
Sensini remains an admirer of the 25-year-old, who spent time in the Italian
capital with Roma's rivals Lazio before joining West Ham. "Behrami is an
important player," Sensi told Centrosuonosport. "We did want him but
unfortunately the deal could not be sealed. We had to keep our balance." He
added: "I don't know whether we will sign him or not, but never say never."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Collison owes a lot to Zola
Hammers midfielder grateful to former Hammers boss
Last updated: 4th September 2010
SSN

West Ham United midfielder Jack Collison has admitted it was a 'shame' to
see Gianfraco Zola sacked at the end of last season. The Italian coach was
axed after the club struggled for form during the 2009/10 term and flirted
with relegation as a result. Collison is grateful for Zola's tutorship
during his time in charge of Upton Park, conceding he was disappointed to
see him leave. "He was the one who gave me my big chance and I feel like I
owe him a lot," said Collison on Soccer AM. "He took an interest in a lot of
the young lads and for me it was great learning off someone like him because
he wasn't a bad player, was he? "He could still play. He joined in during
training and some of the stuff he would do was pretty unbelievable. The
first day in training we were playing two touch; he got the ball, flicked
it round the corner and dinked Rob Green. Everyone just stood there and was
like 'whoa, what have we got here?' "He was really good. After training
sometimes he'd take the boys for a one-to-one session which was nice to see
from a manager, you don't always get that.
"He took a real interest. He let all the boys go out there and express
themselves, which was nice. It's just a shame what happened."
Collison - who last featured for the first team in February - recently
underwent an operation to solve a long-standing knee problem, from which he
expects to return at the beginning of 2011. "I'm hoping to be back around
Christmas time," he confirmed. "I had an operation about four months ago to
stabilise my knee cap and to have a bit of a tidy up."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
SULLIVAN BLASTS HAMMERS LAYABOUTS
News Of The World
By Greg Gobere, 04/09/2010

DAVID SULLIVAN has blasted a section of West Ham's 'lazy' foreign stars for
their woeful start to the season. But the Hammers co-owner warned the
players who "couldn't be bothered" they have no choice but to give 100
percent now that the transfer window is shut for six months. So far, the
pointless Hammers have shipped nine goals in defeats to Aston Villa, Bolton
and Manchester United. And while Sullivan cited injury to new recruits as a
contributing factor to his side's alarming start, he was adamant that some
of the foreign contingent containing Radoslav Kovac, Julien Faubert, Herita
Ilunga, Luis Boa Morte and Jonathan Spector have not been pulling their
weight. Valon Behrami has also spoken of his disappointment at seeing a
move to Roma break down.
Sullivan refused to name names but French midfielder Faubert and full-back
Ilunga are the only players from that group boss Avram Grant has used in all
three defeats. Sullivan said: "We've got a few foreign players who wanted to
leave but we didn't receive any offers. "I think they couldn't be bothered
but now the deadline has passed they realise the only way out is to play for
the club and to play well and I think they will make a contribution. "They
realise now that they are here until at least January so they will get their
heads down and work for the benefit of the club. They had their heads in the
air before that. "The team that started against Man United was the same team
from last season because virtually all the new signings were injured. "You
will find over the next few weeks that it won't be the team of last season -
but if players are performing well they will retain their place. It's the
manager's decision. "Out of our new signings Victor Obinna didn't have
international clearance, Thomas Hitzlsperger was injured, Winston Reid has a
torn muscle in his buttocks, Tal Ben Haim was not fully fit and Pablo
Barrera was knackered after playing two full games in the week after the
World Cup. "Now with our new players getting back and the others back
playing, you will see us get better game by game."
Sullivan is so confident of Grant's team eventually finding their feet, he
confessed he is happy to virtually write off another THREE league games
before he considers the season to have truly begun. By then it will be
October and the Hammers could have played a month and a half of the league.
But Sullivan said: "You can't judge a team after three games. It's very
premature. When you're building something it takes time and there have been
changes at all levels.
"The next three games are very, very tough. Chelsea at home, Stoke who are
particularly good on their own ground and Tottenham at home. "Three tough
games and then the season really starts with the Fulham game on October 2.
But I hope to surprise a few people against Chelsea, Stoke or Tottenham.
"The Bolton game was a major disappointment but it's early days. "There was
a stage last season where we lost six games in a row, these things happen. I
haven't relayed any messages to Avram at all, I just expect a gradual
improvement in form. It's not all doom and gloom. "He inherited a very
imbalanced squad. Over the next year he'll turn things round. Results will
gradually come. Avram is very, very confident about the future. "He'd love
to have £30m-£40m to spend but what manager wouldn't? "I've got every
confidence in the manager and every confidence in the team."

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
GRANT JOB ON THE LINE
News Of The World
By Neil Ashton

AVRAM GRANT is fighting to save his job after just three Premier League
games in charge of West Ham. Incredibly the former Chelsea and Portsmouth
chief is under intense pressure from co-owners David Gold and David
Sullivan. West Ham are bottom of the Premier League without a point and are
facing a daunting set of fixtures in September. They face Chelsea at Upton
Park this weekend and then travel to Stoke and host Tottenham in their next
three games. The Hammers board are expecting an immediate improvement and
are preparing to review Grant's position if they remain bottom of the table.

Sullivan was furious with his team's lack of commitment during the 3-1
defeat against Bolton at Upton Park in August. He is well are of supporter
unrest and is willing to make a swift change in management if results do not
improve. Expectations of a mid-table finish have already been adjusted and
the owners will now be satisfied if they escape relegation. Grant did not
play any of the club's new signings in the 3-0 surrender at Manchester
United last weekend. Pablo Barrera, Frederic Piquionne and Benni McCarthy,
who was on loan at the Hammers last season, were all on the bench.

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PARKER SET TO SIGN NEW DEAL
News Of The World
By Marc Isaacs, 04/09/2010

SCOTT PARKER is finally set to agree a new five-year contract with West Ham
in the next few days. Parker, 29, was strongly linked with a £7m move to
Tottenham during the summer, but the club turned down an offer from the
north London club and were adamant he was staying at Upton Park. Tottenham
were accused by West Ham of trying to unsettle the player, but Harry
Redknapp hit back saying the east London club made it public that they had
made an offer. Parker was offered a new five-year deal, but hesitated in
putting pen-to-paper and West Ham feared he could depart before the transfer
window closed. But the window closed without West Ham having to sell any of
their key players and Parker is now expected to pledge his long-term future
to the club.

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Aliadiere salutes Middlesbrough after injury nightmare
Published 23:00 04/09/10 By Steve Stammers
The Mirror

As cruel twists of football fate go, it ranks up there with the worst. West
Ham were keen on signing Jeremie Aliadiere a month ago, but wanted evidence
of his fitness. So he was invited to play for the reserves against Crystal
Palace on a Monday night, but five minutes in, Aliadiere felt a searing pain
in his knee.
"I had damaged my cruciate knee ligaments," he recalled. And that meant the
end of any possible revival of his career at Upton Park, leaving Aliadiare
clubless. He said: "There was a misunderstanding about the deal. I was led
to believe it had been agreed, but West Ham said it hadn't. "I asked the PFA
to help and they said that all the club were obliged to pay was my medical
expenses which they have."
Former club Boro stepped in when they heard what had happened. "They have
been brilliant," said Aliadiere who starts his rehabilitation up at Teesside
this week. "Gordon Strachan offered me the use of all their facilities.
Hopefully I can be running again in six weeks and fit again in four months."
"I can't wait to be playing again," he said. "This has all been so
frustrating. "Money is not the priority but I do want to be earning again.
No-one is paying me at the moment. I'm not on the street – but it is my
profession and I want to be out there."

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Grant has THREE games to save his job - Exclusive
Published 23:00 04/09/10 By Paul Smith
The Mirror

Avram Grant has just three more League games to save his job at West Ham.
The Hammers are pointless and bottom of the Premier League after their
opening three matches of the new campaign. It has led to growing unrest
among supporters who are fast running out of patience with Grant, who was
appointed on a four year contract in June. Co-owners David Sullivan and
David Gold are also targets for the fans' fury. The West Ham fans' internet
message boards are laden with criticism and furious fans are bombarding
radio stations. Grant, who resigned from relegated Portsmouth at the end of
last season, has become agitated by West Ham's failure to sign key players.
As the transfer window closed last week he claimed the Hammers' financial
position put paid to several proposed deals at the last minute. After
inheriting a spendthrift club following the days of Icelandic ownership, the
Gold-Sullivan hierarchy have insisted on bringing a hard-headed business
approach. But it's likely to be the Israeli coach's head on the block if the
club fail to get points and goals in their next three fixtures. And even
though his contract runs to 2014, there is a specified pay-off within the
deal. The next visitors to Upton Park are free-scoring Premier League
leaders Chelsea, followed by a tough trip to Stoke.They then face Sunderland
in the Carling Cup before the visit of Tottenham on September 25. Grant
needs to show the team he's putting together can climb the table. It was
claimed the 55-year-old's arrival would bring stability and progress. After
deciding the gamble on the inexperienced Gianfranco Zola had backfired, the
Hammers expected Grant to be a safe pair of experienced hands. The fact that
he guided crisis club Pompey to the FA Cup Final last May certainly worked
in his favour as a miracle worker on a tight budget. But the Hammers have
found the net just once this season and during their last away game at
Manchester United Grant did not select a single one of the club's six summer
signings in his starting line-up. Co-owner Gold has claimed the club
expected to secure a mid-table position this season. Avoiding relegation may
become their prime target.

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